Prix du Palais Royal at Longchamp

Big race in France today is the Group Three Prix du Palais Royal over 7 furlongs at 16.15 CET at Longchamp. Tiza (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Christophe Soumillon) has a good chance here to make amends for a rather unhappy ride by Soumillon at Baden-Baden two weeks ago. The main opposition comes from England: Garnica (David Nicholls/ Stephane Pasquier), Captain Marvellous (Barry Hills/ Thierry Thulliez) ad in parzicular CD specialist Welsh Emperor (Tom Tate/ Ioritz Mendizibal) could make life difficult for him. There are no German runners in this race, but plenty on the undercard. Andreas Trybuhl saddles Grazilla (Antony Crastus) in the 2000 metres tiercé handicap at 14.45 and No Pardon (Mendizibal) over the same distance half an hour later. Sascha Smcrzek ha two runners in the 7 furlongs conditions race at 16.45 - Blue Princess (Tony Castanheiura) and Pixie Dust (Eve Meutzner), but ex-German Boccassini, now traine in France, looks very dangerous at these weights. There are 4 German-trained runners in the mile conditions race at 17.15 - Le Big (Uwe Stoltefuss/ Olivier Peslier), Weltträumer (Trybuhl/ William Mongil), Obelix (Erika Mäder/ Mendizibal) and Global Dtream (Karen Haustein/ Dominique Boeuf)

Newbury, Lingfield and Tramore

There is no N.H. racing today, not even at Irish Tramore, where there are 7 runners in the 3yo maiden over 1 3/4 miles at 15.50 CET, but the finish should be dominated by Sufad (Kevin Prendergast( Declan McDonogh) and Fine Design (David Wachman/ Fran Berry). JohnOxx´ Kharsya has run two respectable races and can win the filles´ maiden an hour later. Evening racing at Newbury and Lingfield, where the first 3 races are run on the all-weather and the last 3 on turf. Best bet there should be Harry Dunlop´s Classic Remark (Eddie Ahern) in the 10 furlongs maiden for 3yo´s at 19.35 (all-weather). At Newbury, the 6 furlongs maiden at 20.55 is the most interesting event; Storm Sir (Brian Meehan/ Richard Hughes) and Muhajaar (Luca Cumani/ Pat Cosgrave) showed promise last year but are both making their seasonal debut, so that John Dunlop´s Badweia (Richard Mullen) can be preferred.

Doncaster, Goodwood and York

There is also flat racing this afternoon at three grade one tracks, Doncaster, Goodwood and York, and the last-named track stages a listed race over 1 3/4 miles at 16.25 CET which has attracted a strong field. Henry Cecil´s Tranquil Tiger made all to beat Godolphin´s Regal Flush (Frankie Dettori) by 10 lengths at Newbury last time and should be able to confirm the form - but not by that margin. However there are other front-runners in the field today, so that he will not find it so easy to dominate. Soapy Danger (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), Tungsten Strike (Amanda Perrett/ Jim Crowley) and especially Luca Cumani´s Lion Sands (Neil Callan) all look dangerous. The big betting race at York is the 5 furlongs handicap at 16.55 with 20 runners and almost anything is possible. Course specialist River Falcon (Jim Goldie/ Daniel Tudhope) and seasonal debutant Sirens Gift (Andrew Balding/ Liam Keniry) are two for the short list. At Doncaster, Godolphin´s unbeaten Wingbeat (Kerrin McEvoy) appears to have a simple task in the 6 furlongs classified stakes at 16.40; Light Hearted (Jeremy Noseda/ Martin Dwyer) was a very easy winner against inferior opposition at Brighton and looks the only conceivable danger. The 7 furlongd handicap at 17.10 looks at the mercy of King of Dixie (William Knight/ Paul Doe) if he turns out again after yesterday´s easy win at York. If he is withdrawn, which appears likely, CD winner Danehill Sundance (Steve Parr/ Kerrin McEvoy) is the alternative. Longshot lovers should look carefully at German-bred Birkspiel (Simon Dow/ Dean McKeown) in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 16.40 at Goodwood. This winner of a German Group Three at Bremen two years ago has been out of form for a long time, but has dropped to a very lenient mark and will be perfectly suited by the soft ground. LuicaCuman´s lightly-raced and highly progressive Bankable, winner of his last 3 races, can continue on his winning ways in the mile listed race at 16.35. Reliable Ordnance Row (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) and soft ground specialist Babodana (Mark Tompkins/ Saleem Golan) are the main threats.

Haydock main meeting

Haydock Park stages the best racing today, with 2 listed races and a Group Three on the card. The listed races areboth over 6 furlongs, with the race for 3yo´s kicking off the programme at 15.10 CET. Fat Boy (Peter Chapple-Hyam/ Tom Queally) holds Tajdeef (Barry and Michael Hills), but a bigger threat should be Swiss Franc (David Elsworth/ Ryan Moore), who has not run for 9 months but had good form to his credit as a juvenile and now gets 3 pounds from Fat Boy. The listed race for fillies and mares over 6 furlongs at 15.45 looks quite open, although Andrew Balding´s Dark Missile will probably start clear favourite, especially as she gets on well with today´s jockey Hayley Turner. However Jeremy Noseda´s pair Francesca d´Gorgio (Steve Drowne) and Perfect Polly (Shane Kelly), Henry Cecil´s improving Crystany (Tom Queally), and especially the unbeaten Irish raider Aine (Tommy Stack/ Wayne Lordan) cannot be left out of calculations. The Group Three John of Gaunt Stakes over 7 furlongs at 16.15 looks more straightforward. Major Cadeaux (Ruchard Hannon/ Ryan Moore) was a Group Two winner over a mile last time out, and although he is penalised for that, it is still the best form in the race and today´s distance is ideal. Appalachian Trail (Linda Perratt/ Fergal Lynch) was a very easy listed CD winner 3 weeks ago and is next best.

German runners at Le Croisé - Laroche

It has been another successful week for German raiders in France, and thered could be more winners today., where there are German-trained runners in almost every race at Le Croisé Laroche, all of which are over the distance of 2100 metres. In the 2nd race at 14.20 CET, a 3yo seller, Mario Hofer´s No Next (Jean-Pierre Carvalho) and Christian von der Recke´s Arrow Flight (Yann Lerner) boht line up, while half an hour later Sultan of Riad (Manfred Weber/ Nicolas Dieu) runs, and another half hour later Download (Regina and Fabien-Xaver Weissmeier) and Omonia (Uwe Ostmann/ William Mongil). In a seller for 3yo fillies at 15.50, the German runners are Pirina (Hans Blume/ Andreas Suborics) and Tralee (von der Recke/ Lerner). Von der Recke also saddles Easytango with Johan Victoire in the 4yo seller at 16.20 and Maknoon with Marc Lerner in the seller for older horses and for amateur riders at 17.20, in which race he is joined by Lava Rock (Hans Walter Hiller/ F. Pradeau) and Gordion (Norbert Sauer/ Thierry Steeger), and finally Beau Marchand (Weber/ Dieu) and Pennekar (Sauer/ Davy Bonilla) are entered in the 4yo race at 17.50.

Haydock and Musselburgh

The flat racing this evening comes from Haydock and Musselburgh, and the best race at the Scottish track is the mile claimer 21.50 CET; hat-trick seeking Royal Dignitary (David and Adrian Nicholls) and Sam´s Secret (Alan Swinbank/ PJ McDonald) both have winning form over this CD and should be involved in the finish. The fields are generally small at Musselburgh, but the racing is much more competitive at Haydock, where some useful typres are engaged in the milöe race for maidens at 21.10; Bramaputra (Rod Millman/ Alan Munro) has been runner-up in good company on both his starts so far, but both Al Wasef (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), a $250,000 yearling, and Persian Sea (Michael Jarvis/ Philip Robinson) shaped like certain future winners on their debuts. The 1 1/2 mile maiden at 22.10 looks much more cut and dried: Brian Meehan´s North Parade (Neil Callan) finished fifth in the Chester Vase last time, 15 lengths behind Derby favourite Tajaweed, and none of his opponents today have form remotely comparable.

Jumps racing this evening

There is N.H. racing this evening at Towcester and Tramore in Ireland, and a mixed meeting at Down Royal in N. Ireland (2 N.H., 5 flat races). The most interesting race at Towcester should be the novice hurdle over 2 172 miles at 21.00 CET, with several promising types engaged, notably Emma Lavelle´s Fire and Rain (Robert Thornton), a Galileo gelding fomerly trained by Aidan O´Brien, and Henry Daly´s Sea Eagle (Richard Johnson). There could be a German-bred winner at Tramore, as Spiriton, now trained by Gerald Cully, has good prospects in the opening maiden hurdle for 6-y-o´s at 18.45. The flat races look more interesting than the races over jumps at Down Royal, and David Wachman´s Vegas Baby (Wayne Lordan) can take the 2yo maiden at 19.55, and Ken Condon´s Fay Street (Colm O´Donoghue), placed on all 5 2008 starts, the 7 furlongs maiden an hour later.

Brighton, Goodwood and York

This afternoon´s racing comes from Brighton, Goodwood and York, with some large fields but generally low level sport. The best races are at York, where the class 3 conditions race over 7 furlongs at 15.10 CET can go to Godolphin´ s Fateh Field (Kerrin McEvoy), who cost half a million dollars as a yearling, which may still be money well spent, as she has showed promise on all 3 starts and receives weight all round here; she can go on to better things. Experienced smart handicappers King of Dixie (William Knight/ Ryan Moore) and Benandonner (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) look the dangers. Ryan Moore is always worth following following when riding for his rather Gary, and the much improved Kavachi can complete a hat-trick for them in the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.20, while Crimson Fern (Malcolm Saunders/ Franny Norton), unpenalised for an easy win at Goodwood last week. can take the 5 furlongs handicap at 16.55. Sir Mark Prescott´s Master of Arts looks a typical performer from this highly successful stable, no show in 3 races at 2, but much improved racing over longer distances at 3, and he can remain unbeaten this season in the 3yo mile handicap at 16.35 at Goodwood, where Michael Bell´s Mezzanisi (Jamie Spencer) take take the 10 furlongs handicap for the same age group at 17.10 after two second places. Another hat-trick seeker is Sion Hill (John Harris/ Mark Coumbe) who runs in the 7 furlongs handicap at Brighton at 1645; his stable is in good form, and the young jockey landed a double yesterday at Yarmouth.

A German-bred winner in the Prix Corrida?

The best race in France today is the Group Two Prix Corrida for fillies and mares over 2100 metres at 15.20 CET at Saint-Cloud, and it seems there is an excellent chance of a German-bred winner, as 4 of the 8 runners were bred in Germany, including Mario Hofer´s Fair Breeze (Jean-Pierre Carvalho, replacing suspendeded stable jockey Andreas Helfenbein), a very easy winner on her last trip to France and who will again have the soft ground she needs to show her best form. Baron Ullmann´s Guardia (André Fabre/ Stephane Paquier) and Gestüt Ebbesloh´s Avanti Polonia (Freddie Head/ Davy Bonilla) can also run into the money, as can the Karlshof-bred La Boum (Robert Collet/ Christophe Soumillon), although the likely favourite is Francois Rohaut´s Mrs. Lindsay (Christophe Lemaire), winner of the 2007 Prix Vermeille. Another german-trained runner at Saint-Cloud is Ralf Rohne´s West Pacific (Franck Blondel), who races 19 opponents in a 2100 metres handicap at 16.20. There is also flat racing from La Teste (late start) and trotting from Caen (early start- first race at 12.35).

Newcastle, Wetherby and Punchestown

The evening racing at Newcastle (flat), Wetherby and Punchestown in Ireland (both N.H.) pales into insignificance compared to the sport on offer at Sandown, but there are still some interesting races, At Newcastle, Sir Michael Stoute´s Crystal Capella (Tom Eaves), runner-up on both her starts so far, should win the 10 furloingd race fotr maiden fillies at 20.35 CET, while Inter Vision (Allan Dickman/ Daniel Tudhope) makes anothet quick reappearance in the 6 furlongs handicap at 21.40 after winning twice last week; however he seems held on Thirsk form 12 days ago by High Curragh (Kevin Ryan/ Fergal Lynch). At Wetherby, David Pipe´s Fourty Acers (Tom Scuamore) stands out in the 3 mile novice hurdle at 20.25, but the handicap hurdle at 21.30 looks trickier. Tayman (Carl Llewellyn/ Noel Fehily) carries a 7lbs penalty for a very easy win last week, while Lawaaheb (Matt Gingell/ Denis O´Regan) is a course specialist and can be preferred on this occasion.

Ayr, Great Leighs and Yarmouth

The three flat meetings this afteroon offer very little in the way of better class racing. In addition, the fields at Ayr, where the ground is firm, are very small, with 4 of the 7 races having 4 runners or less. Best betting race there is the class 6 handicap over 9 furlongs at 16.20 CET. Zabeel Tower (Richard Allan/ Tony Hamilton) is much better on turf than on the all-weather and has won both his 2008 races, both this month, but faces a stiff task under top weight. Consistet Lady Valentino (Michael Dods/Phillip Makin) looks a likely alternative. At Great Leighs, where yesterday´s premiere went off more or less successfully, although the facilities are far from finished, the two last time out winners Maimoona (William Haggas/ Richard Hills) and Be Fortyfour (Michael Jarvis/ Philip Robinson) can dominate the 5 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 16.00, while Kevin Ryan´s Tamagin is the most interesting runner in the 6 furlongs conditions race at 16.30; he has finished first or second in his last 7 races and is expected to make up into a group race performer this season. Another multiple winner is Gary Moore´s Art Man, who can score for the 5th time in 2008 under son Ryan in the 10 furlongs handicap half an hour later. At Yarmouth, Grand izier (Chris Wall/ Jack Mitchell) can make the most of his lenient turf rating to take the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.10, while Equileus Pictor (Jon Spearing/ Jack Dean), who has been running over 6 furlongs, may be suited by the drop back to the minimum distance at 17.40.

Excellent evening card at Sandown

Easily the best racing on today´s 7 cards comes from the evening meeting at Sandown, which stages the best evening meeting of the year, featuring two group and two listed races. The Group Two Henry II Stakes over 2 miles at 20.15 CET is a major trial for the Ascot Gold Cup, and Sir Michael Stoute´s mare Allegretto (Ryan Moore), who won this last year, is the class act here, but as the only Group One winner in the field she has to give away weight all round, which does not look easy. Balkan Knight (David Elsworth/ Jamie Spencer) now reopposed on 7 lbs better terms, but even more dangerous are the two runners with the lightest weight: Tranquil Tiger (Henry Cecil/ Ted Durcan) and especially Royal and Regal (Michael Jarvis/ Neil Callan). The Group Three Brigadier Stakes over 10 furlongs at 20.45 also features a Group One winner with a large penalty - John Gosden´s Lucarno (Jimmy Fortune), and it would be surprising if he can score over a distance well short of his best. Once again, a filly looks a big danger - Henry Cecil´s Passage of Time (Ted Durcan), but Godolphin´s Happy Boy (Frankie Dettori), who had good form in Dubai, and Regime (Michael Bell/ Richard Hughes) are also threatening. The listed National Stakes for 2yo´s at 19.40 could involve mainly Foundation Room (Andrew Balding/ Frannie Norton) and Finjaan (Marcus Tregoning/ Richard Hills), both of whom created a very favourable impression when winning their only start so far. John Gosden´s Vitrtual (Jimmy Fortune) was a non-runner last saturdax at Haydock because of the firm ground; condisitons will be more to his liking now andf he can take the mile listed race for 3yo´s at 21.20.

French racing today

There is racing in France this afternoon from Maisons-Laffitte (flat) and Nantes (Trotting). With German-trained runners continuing to do well, there should be plenty of interest in Mario Hofer´s Kaliyan (Jean-Pierre Carvalho) and Horst Steinmetz´ Nasibow (Maxime Guyon) who both run in the opening tiercé handicap over 3100 metres. With the ground likely to be soft, the latter is preferred. There are also two sellers for lady riders on the card, in both of which Kati Werning will be riding for Jean-Luc Pelletan: Ilbaritz at 16.50 CET and Low Budget at 16.50. In the latter event the ex-Mario Hofer-trained Famous, now with Cedric Boutin, will be ridden by Carina Fey.

Yarmouth and Cartmel

There is also racing this afternoon at Yarmouth (flat) and Cartmel (N.H.). At the latter track, Trinity Rose (Peter Bowen/ Tom O´Brien), who fell at the last when looking an easy winner last time, can make amends in the mares maiden hurdle at at 15.20 CET. Main event here is the veterans handicap chase over 3 3/4 miles at 17.00, where almost all the 10-plus yo´s running can be given a chance. Ross Comm (Sue Smith/ Tjade Collier) has been dropped in the weights after a couple of disappointing runs and looks a possibility in an open race. Most interesting runner at Yarmouth is Sir Michael Stoute´s well-bred Decameron (Ryan Moore), third over this CD on his debut 16 days ago, and he can take the mile maiden at 16.15.

Great Leighs open to public

Britain´s newest racetrack, Great Leighs in Essex east of London, opens for the first time to the public today. They have held several evening meetings already, but they were all restricted to special guests. Now for ther first time the paying public is allowed in, and also they race for the first time in the afternoon. After an early morning inspection to make sure all the safety regulations were observed, racing has been given the green light and there are 3 class 3 races on the card. Henry Cecil´s Many Volumes(Ted Durcan), only beaten half a length by Red Rocks last time, seems to have the 10 furlongs race at 16.35 CET at his mercy, but the handicaps at 17.10 and 17.45 looks much more open. In the former event, over 6 furlongs, hat-trick chasing Mango Music (Mick Quinn/ Chris Catlin), Obe Gold (David and Adrian Nicholls) and ex-Irish Royal Island (Mick Quinlan/ Vince Slattery) are three fr the short list, while the fillies´ handicap over 10 furlongs looks very tricky. Top-weight Folly Lodge (Geoff Wragg/ Steve Drowne) has been racing in better company and may be able to hold off Tom Dascombe´s two runners, Naughty Thoughts (Ross Atkinson), who has won 3 races already this year, and bottom-weight Zaskar (Adrian McCarthy)

two listed races this evening

This evening´s two flat meetings offer better than average sport and both Beverley and Leopardstown (Ireland) have a listed race as their main event. At Beverley it is the Hilary Needler Trophy over 5 furlongs for 2yo fillies at 20.35 CET, a race often contested by subsequent Royal Ascot performers. It looks a very open event, with 14 runners, 11 of whom have already won. Best on form could be Alan Bailey´s Aspen Darling (Paul Hanagan), but her draw (5) is not ideal, and possibly White Shift (David Evans/Stephen Donohoe) can reverse the form from a better draw (10). However the one to beat is Paul Cole´s speedy Percolator (Nelson de Souza), who has made all to win her last two aces and has the best draw of all (14). Irish raiders are seldom seen here, so Ger Lyons´ Ohiyesa (Shane Kelly) must be respected, but she has alrrady won over 6 furlongs and may find this trip too sharp. Half an hour later, Henry Candy´s very fast Corrybrough (Ryan Moore) should win the 5 furlongs race for 3yo´s; he looked like a group race prospect when winning with great ease last time at Sandown. At Leopardstown, the main feature is the Saval Beg Stakes over 1 3/4 miles at 20.30, a race often used as a stepping stone to the Gold Cup, as for example last year when Yeats won by 6 lengths from Mutakarrim (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen). Mutakarrim, who has been runner-up now three times in this, tries again, but at 11 years of age is not getting any younger. Red Moloney (Kevin Prendergast/ Declan McDonogh), only 3/4 length behind Yeats last time at Naas, is the more likely winner, although Ezima (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning) and Hasanka (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane) also look dangerous. There is also racing this evening at Southwell, for a change over jumps. Go West (Heather Dalton/ Steven Craine) can take the beginners chase over 3 1/4 miles at 19.50 after three times finishing runner-up (twice over fences).

French racing today

there is flat racing this afternoon at Longchamp and trotting from Vichy, as well as the usual Tuesday evening trotting at Vincennes. Today´s Longchamp card is relatively minor, but German interests are represented by Fancy Running, whose trainer Andreas Trybuhl and jockey Adrie de Vries were successful yesterday at Compiegne, and who runs in the mile handicap for 4yo´s at 16.50. There are also several runners with German connections, notably Gestüt Schlenderhan´s well-bred Iolith (André Fabre/ Johan Victoire), who runs in the mile race for 3yo debutants at 15.20.

N.H. racing this evening

Fans of jumps racing ae the field to themselves this evening, with N.H. racing at Hexham and Huntingdon and a mixed meeting (3 flat races, 3 over jumps and a bumper) at Ballinrobe in Ireland. Best bet at the Irish track could be Philip Fenton´s Paddy the Ref (Barry Geraghty) in the maiden hurdle at 21.30 CET; he is penalised for winning a bumper, but his recent second place at Killarney makes him the clear form choice here. Trainer Evan Williams usually does well at this time of year and can land an across-the-card double in the novice chases at 20.20 at Huntingdon and twenty minutes later at Hexham with Chrysander (Paul Moloney) and Piran (Christian Williams) respectively. Also at Hexham, the much improved Justwhateverulike (Sandra Forster/ Tom Messenger) can complete a hat-trick in the 2 mile handicap chase at 21.40, while German-bred Cortinas (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) can take Huntingdon´s novice hurdle at 20.50 as long as the rain stays away.

Chepstow, Leicester and Redcar go ahead

Racing goes ahead this afternoon at Leicester and Chepstow after early morning inspections following the problems of the last few days and the very changeable weather. Redcar also had problems yesterday but is also clear for today; the best race there is the 5 furlongs handicap at 17.10 CET with several distance specialists in the field of 10. However top-weight and likely favourite Inter Vision (Allan Dickman/ Daniel Tudhope), an easy winner at Catterick on Saturday, seems better at 6 furlongs, in which case Ocean Blaze (Rod Millman/ Chris Catlin), a CD winner last October, and King of Swords, representing the husband and wife team of Nigel and Kim Tinkler, might be preferred. A Leicester the most interesting event is the 7 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 16.00, in which top-weights Romany Princess (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) and Tawzeea (Mark Johnston/ Richard Hills) come into the reckoning, together with last-time-out winner Divine Power (Ralph Beckett/ Seb Sanders). Two horses that won last time out at Goodwood could follow up at the Chepstow meeting - Davenport (Rod Millman/ Alan Munro) in the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.50 and Councellor (Stef Liddiard/ Micky Fenton) in the mile handicap half an hour later.

German runners at Compiegne

German-trained runners continue to pay their way in France and have prospec ts of picking up more prize-money at Compiegne today. 10yo Kasus (Pavel Vovcenko/ Filip Minarik) runs in the 2400 metres seller at 14.20 CET, while Dr. Andreas Bolte´s Sweet Eagle (Dominique Boeuf) has a chance in the 3yo race over the same trip half an hour later. Illimani (Andreas Trybuhl/ Adrie de Vries) contests the 3yo seller at 16.20, and there are 2 German runners in the amateur riders´race, also over 1800 metres. at 16.50: Marek (Dieter Fechner/ Thierry Steeger) and recent course winner Los Cantos (Norbert Sauer/ Paul-Henri de Quatrebarbes). There is also trotting from Vichy.

Carlisle, Chepstow and Leicester

The hottest race on a poor card at Carlisle is the mile handicap at 16.25 CET, qwhich features several runners with recent form, such as Motafarred (Micky Hammond/ Dean McKeown), an easy winner at Pontefract on Friday and now penalised 6 lbs, or Stoic Leader (Roger Fisher/ Royston Ffrench), third at Catterick on Saturday); copurse specialists Hula Ballew (Michael Dods/ Phillip Makin) and Grand Opera (Howard Johnson/ PJ McDonald) also come into the reckoning. At Cjhepstow and Leicester, the racing is even less inspiring. At the fomer track, Sirt Mark Precott´s Master of Arts (Seb Sanders) looks the best bet of the day in the 3yo miler handicap at 16.30. He showed much improved form to win over 7 furlongs on the all-weather last week and a repetition of that form whpould be enough for him to follow up here. Another winner last week who can score again today is Sylvester Kirk´s Opera Prince (Steve Drowne), who can take the 6 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 17.55 at Leicester. Michael Bell´s Brae Hill (Hayley Turner) gave a good debut at Newmarket recently and should win the 5 furlongs race for 2yo´s at 16.45 at the same track.

N.H. racing at Cartmel and Ballinrobe

Jumps racing today comes from Cartmel, in the Lake District, and Ballinrobe in Irelabd, where there is a mixed meeting this evening, with 3 flat races, 3 over jumps and a bumper. Most interesting runner here, is Sivota (Michael Murphy/ Paul Carberry), who recently ran well on the flat and has also fair form over hurdles; he should be good enough to take the4yo maiden hurdle at 21.00 CET. At Cartmel, the best race is also a maiden hurdle for 4yo´s at 17.45 CET. German-bred Auenschütze is now trained in N. Ireland by James Lambe and despite a couple of poor performances, should go close here with Tony McCoy in the saddle. Sharp Dresser (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), Dee Jay Wells (Derek Thompson/ JP O´Farrell) and Donald McCain´s two runners Grasscutter (Jason Maguire) and Woodcraft (PJ Benson) - neither of whom completed last time- look the obvious dangers.

Zetland Gold Cup at Redcar

Today is a bank holiday in Britain, and as a result there are several meetings (all in the afternoon), but none of them offering much in the way of high class racing. Easily the best race of the day is the Zetland Gold Cup, a class 2 ten furlongs handicap at 16.50 CET at Redcar, which looks very tricky with15 runners,some of them on the verge of listed class. Fragrancy (Michael Jarvis/ Philip Robinson) is the likely favourite having run several good races at this level, but he is moving up in distance and has never run over the trip; nor has Docofthebay (Jamie Osborne/ Shane Kelly), who looked rather unlucky last time out. Alan Swinbank´s front-runner First Buddy (Ted Durcan) ison hat-trick, but faces better opposition now. while Clive Britain´s Yarqus, an all-weather specialist, is partnered by the promising apprentice Ahmed Ajtebi.

France today

Flat racing in France this afternoon at Chantilly and Angers and trotting this evening from Vincennes. There are 3 German runners at Chantilly, all in the mile handicap. In the first and stronger division at 13.50 CET, Tumult (Erika Mäder/ Lennard Hammer-Hansen) crosses swords with Ziethe (Andreas Trybuhl/ Jerome Lermyte) as well as 16 French-trained runners, while Sascha Smcrzek´s Flying Encore (Delphine Santiago) runs in the second division at 17.30. Main event on the card is a listed mile race for 3yo fillies at 16.00 with 7 runners.

Leicester, Limerick and Towcester

There is flat racing this evening at Leicester, N.H. racing at Towcester and an all-hurdles card at Limerick in Ireland, where ex-German Simone Boccanegro (Gerard Cully/ I.J.Power) can take the maiden hurdle over 2 miles 3 furlongs at 19.30 CET. Tony McCoy could be the man to follow at Towcester; he can win the handicap hurdle at 20.10 on Seamus Mullins´ Foreign King and the maiden hurdle half an hour later with John O´Shea´s Chevy to the Levy. At Leicester, there could be some interesting 2yo´s in the line-up for the 5 furlongs maiden race at 19.20, but it is surely significant that Frankie Dettori has his only mount of the evening here on Brian Meehan´s Light the Fire.

Only six run in the 10 furlongs handicap at 20.50, but it is still quite tricky. Top-weight Speedy Sam (Karl Burke/ Fergus Sweeney) has not win for 18 months but has been running in much better company, and is dropping in class here; last-time-out winner Snowed Under (James Bethell/ Darryll Holland) is a course specialist, with 5 CD wins to his credit, while Luca Cumani´s Candy Mountain (Joe Fanning) is a lightly-raced sort who looks capable of considerable improvement this year.

Beverley, Musselburgh and Southwell

Once again, plenty of racing with some large fields, but mainly very poor quality on offer. Theoretically the bst race of the day is the class 3 handicap over 8 1/2 furlongs at Beverley at 16.50 CET, but there are onlY 5 runners here and this should go to top-weight Yes One (Kevin Ryan/ Daragh O´Donohoe), a very consistent performer. Also at Beverley, there are 17 runners in the 5 furlongs handicap at 16.20 and as usual, punters are advised to concentrate of those drawn on the inside (i.e. high numbers). David Nicholls´ pair Mr. Rooney (Adrian Nicholls) and Spirit of Coniston (Paul Quinn), Tim Easterby´s Royal Composer (Duran Fentiman) ands Bill Ratcliffe´s Colorus (Joe Fanning) are all drawn well and have obvious prospects. The most interesting runner at Musselburgh is Declan Carroll´s Proud Linus (David Allan), who is likely to start hot favourite for the 5 furlongs maiden at 16.10. His two starts last season ended in a fourth place in a listed race and last place (but not disgraced) in a Group One, and if he can reproduce that form he can hardly lose today. At Southwell today most of the runners are old acquaintances who are regulars here, with numerous CD winners entered. Probaably the most notable CD specialist is Dado Mush (T.T.Clement/ Kirsty Milczarek), who has won 5 races since December, all over this CD. Despite top weight he can take the mile handicap at 16.00, although he is now quite harshly treated at the weights - for example, he meets Jord (Alan McCabe/ Andrew Elliott) on 24 lbs worse terms than when beating him 5 lengths here in the winter.

Roscommon, Windsor and Wolverhampton

There is flat racing this evening from Windsor and Wolverhampton (all-weather), while the Irish track Roscommon stages a mixed meeting (3 flat, 4 N.H. and one bumper). The course specialist Jubilant Note (Michael Murphy/ Paul Carberry) will find gropund conditions to his liking and can defy top weight in the 2 mile handicap chase at 20.30 CET. At Windsor, only 4 are declared for the class 2 conditions stakes for 2yo´s over 5 furlongs at 19.40; Fault (Roger Charlton/ Ryan Moore) and White Shift (David Evans/ Stephen Donohoe) have already won well, but Peter Chapple-Hyam´s 200,000 guineas yearling purchase Sayif (Jimmy Fortune) is apparently highly regarded and can make a winning debut. First Avenue (Michael Jarvis/ Philip Robinson) and Inventor (Brian Meehan/Ryan Moore) both have similar profiles - lightly-raced progressive types making their seasoinal debut, and can have the 1 1/2 miles handicap at 20.40 between them. At Wolverjhamptpn, the class 4 handicap over 9 furlongs at 21.20 looks the most interesting race.On recent form Arthurs Edge (Brian Palling/ Tolley Dean) would be the selection, as he has won 3 of his last 4 races, including twice this CD, but top-weights Kafuu (Simon Callagan/ Seb Sanders) and Axiom (Luca Cumani/ Ashley Hamblett), both seasonal debutants, probably have more potential for improvement.

Bath, Musselburgh and Newton Abbot

Flat racing this afternoon comes from Bath and Musselburgh, while there is N.H. racing at Newton Abbot, where Paul Nicholls´ Ofarel d´Airy (Nick Scholfield) can atone for this recent defeat at 2-1 on by taking the opening novices hurdle at 15.20 CET. Best race here is the class 3 handicap hurdle at 16.50, in which course specialist Critical Stage (Jimmy Frost/ Tony McCoy) seems the logical selection. At Musselburgh the 5 furlongs claimer at 16.10 is contested by a number of oldtimers well past their sell-by date. 9yo Fire Up the Band (Alan Berry/ Fergal Lynch), 9y0 Funfare Wane (David and Adrian Nicholls) and 12yo Blackheath (S.Mason/ Kelly harrison) were in younger days all at home in much better company, but are seemingly unable to run anywhere that level nowadays. Whinhill House (Derek Barker/ Robert Winson) is a relative youngster at 8 and has decent form to his credit, so he is the choice here. Best race at Bath is the fillies handicap over 1mile 5 furlongs at 16.00. Spring Dream (Alan King/ Richard Hughes) won this last year and meets her recent conqueror Rose Row (Mary Hambro/ Hayley Turner) on 3 pounds better terms. There are17 runners in the 6 furlongs handicap at 16.30, but German-bred Misaro (Ron Harris/ Hadden Frost) seems a sporting each-way bet. He won 4 races in the early summer of 2007 and seems to be coming back to form.

French racing today

French racing today stretches from Dieppe in the far north to Salon de Provence in the far south, with a trotting meeting this evening at Vincennes. Only German runner today is Sascha Smcrzek´s Südsturm (Delphine Santiago), who runs in a 1400 metres handicap at 16.20 at Dieppe

Ireland this evening

There is the usual Friday evening flat racing on the all-weather at Dundalk and also a mixed meeting at Cork (4 flsat races, 2 chases, one bumper). The best horse on view at Cork is almost certainly Salford City (Gordon Elliott/ Paul Carberry), who was a group race winner on the flat and also a smart hurdler - well beaten but far from disgraced in the top Irish races- who makes his debut over fences at 21.20 CET. At Dundalk, the Aga Khan´s Zafayra (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane), the only filly in the small field, should win the conditions race for 3yo´s at 22.40, as she should be suited by the step up to 1 1/2 miles.

Aintree, Newcastle and Newmarket

There is also British racing from Newmarket this afternoon and Newcastle and Sintree (N.H.) this evening. It is interesting that Frankie Dettori rides at Newmarket this afternoon, primarily to partner Godolphin´s Wingbeat in the 3yo handicap at 16.00 CET. He has another winning chance with Brian Meehan´s Icon Project in the 1 1/2 mile race for 3yo maiden fillies at 17.10. Top-weight Transcend (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune) can oiutclass the opposition in the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.35. Best thing on the Newcastle card is undoubtedly Wooffall Treasure (George Margarson/ Seb Sanders), who should not be troubled to see off inferior opposition in the 10 furlongs maiden at 20.15, but will be a very short price, while the most interesting event on a good Aintree card is the novice hurdle over 2 miles at 19.30. This race sees the hurdles debut of useful flat performer Bolodenka (Richard Fahey/ Denis O´Regan), but both the penalised Shavansky (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) and Sendani (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) are also talented.

listed races at Newbury and Hamilton

There are also two listed races today at both Newbury this afternoon and Hamilton this evening. Mark Johnston holds a strong hand at the Scottish track with both Love Galore (Joe Fanning) and Captain Webb (Greg Fairley) entered in the Glasgow Stakes for 3yo´s over 11 furlongs at 20.25 CET. An hour later the listed 1 1/2 miles handicap, has only 6 tunners but still looks very open. Top weight Turbo Linn (Alan Swinbank/ Neil Callan) is smart in this grade but is making his seasonal debut and may find it tough to give so much weight to Gull Wing (Michael Bell/ Richard Mullen). At Newbury, the Carnavon Stakes for 3yo´s over 5 furlongs at 15.20 looks a match between Fat Boy (Peter Chapple-Hyam/ Richard Hughes) and Tajdeef (Barry and Richard Hills). Some of the top jockeys are riding here rather than at York, and it could be significant that Jamie Spencer partners the unfortunaely-named Kotsi for Ed Vaughan in the 3yo fillies race half an hour later. She is the clear choice on 2007 form, but is making her seasonal debut and faces several recent winners, notably Clowance (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne) and Asa River (Andrew Balding/ William Buick).

Yorkshire Cup

Third and final day of York´s May meeting, and the main feature today is the Group Two Yorkshire Cup over 1 3/4 miles at 15.40 CET. Severalold friends here including Sergeant Cecil (Rod Millman/ Alan Munro) and Geordieland(Jamie Osborne/ Shane Kelly), first and second in this last year. However the two to beat are Royal and Regal (Michael Jarvis/ Neil Callan), who is not a certain runner if the going remains on the firm side, and Aidan O´Brien´s Honolulu (Johnny Murtagh), an excellent second in the Ebor here last August and beaten favourite in the St.Leger. Several potentially smart 2yo fillies run in the opening listed race over 5 furlongs at 14.40; 10 of the 11 runners are already winners, and among those who made an excellent impression is Langs Lash (Mick Quinlan/ Alan Munro), but she like all others is stepping up in grade here. The listed race for 3yo fillies over a mile at 16.10 should mainly concern Makaaseb (Michael Jarvis/ Martin Dwyer) and Musical Bar (Barry Hills/ Alan Munro), while te handicaps as always look extremely difficult.

Evening racing at 4 tracks

Plenty of action this evening, with H.H. racing at Ludlow and Folkestone, which stages a hunter chase meeting, as well as flat racing from Newmarket and a mixed card at Limerick in Ireland (4 flat races, 2 over hurdles and a bumper). Kadount looks a near certainty to win the 20.50 CET at Folkestone, and Fortune Seeker to take the mares maiden hurdle five minutes later at Limerick. Colorado Pearl (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) carries a 7 lbs penalty for a very easy win at Wincanton last week and should not be troubled to follow up in the 3 mile handicap chase at 19.35 at Ludlow, while easily the best race at Newmarket is the class 3 conditions race overa mile for 3yo s at 21.00. All 8 runners are previous winners and most of them will later be expected to make their mark at listed level, or even higher. Fanjura, Cat Junior and Tri Nations are all unbeaten, and Godolphin s Fateh Field will probably start favourite with Frankie Dettori in the saddle, but possibly Geoff Wragg s Moyenne Corniche, with Ryan Moore in the saddle, will prove to be the best of them.

Salisbury and Perth

There is also British racing this aftermnoon at Salisbury (flat) and Perth (N.H.). The most interesting event at Salisbury is the race for 2yo maidens at 15.20 CET. Sun Ship (Tichard Hannon| Richrd Hughes), The Desert Sainmt (Andrew Balding William Buick) and Desite to Excel (Paul Cole/ Richard Quinn) have all shown ability and one of them should win this. There is a strong Irish presence at Perth, with 5 Irish/trained runners in the best race on the card, a handicap hurdle over 2 12 miles at 17.45.

Dante Stakes at York

The Dante Stakes, a Group Two race for 3yo s over 10 furlongs run today at 15.40 CET at York, is traditionally the most reliable trial for the Epsom Derby (Authorized won both races last year) and a small but select field of 6 runners are under orders, including Derby favourite, Henry Cecil s Twice Over (Ted Durcan). However there is still a doubt about whether he will be allowed to run, because of the firm ground. We want to run, but we won t risk him if the ground is not safe, says Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager to owner Khalid Abdullah. He has clear;ly the best form in the race, and should win if allowed to line up and remain unbeaten. Dangers couold be John Gosden s Centennial (Jimmy Fortune) and Godolphin s pair Young Pretender, the choice of Frankie Dettori, and German/bred McCartney (Kerrin McEvoy). Another German bred is Aidan O Brien s Frozen Fire (Johnny Murtagh), but he will need to step on his previous form, as must Sir Michael Stoute sTartan Bearer (Ryan Moore), an own brother to King George winner Golan. In view of their trainer s form however, it is by no means impossible that this can happen. This is a race to savour, but in view of the uncertainties, not necessarily one in which to bet heavily.
However Tartan Bearer runs, Stoute and Moore should pick up two races here with Promising Lead, in the Group 3 race for older fillies and mares at 15.10, and Lang Shining in the mile handicap at 16.10.

Firm ground at York

The contining dry spell is causing problems foir racetracks and fields are beginning to cut up. This is especially a problem at York, where there are likely to be several non runners today, despite intensive watering. Thereare already two non/runners in the Group Three fillies race at 15.10, leaving a maximum of 5 runners, while it is still not clear whether Henry Cecil will risk his Derby favourite Twice Over in today s main event, the Dante Stakes at 15.40. Thundery showers are apparently on the way (as they are supposed to be in Germany) but it is uncertain when, or where, they will hit.

Jockeys flying back to Ireland

The other significant race today is the Group Three Blue Wind Stakes for fillies over 10 furlongs this evening at Naas, and Declan McDonogh, Kevin Manning and Johnny Murtagh - all riding at York this afternoon- fly back home to ride here, and in some cases back to York again tomorrow. McDonogh rides the unbeaten Marjalina, also an Oaks hope, for Kevin Prendergast, while Murtagh partners Aidan O´Brien´s Adored and Manning Jim Bolger´s AllIcansayiswow. These fillies are all three-year-olds, but the older fillies in the field, Profound Beauty (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen) and Arkadina (David Wachman/ Waymne Lordan) also have possibilities, especially the former, who was fifth in last year´s Irish Oaks and can benefit from Weld´s good stable form.

Duke of York Stakes

The other big race at York today is the Group Two Duke of York Stakes over 6 furlongs at 16.10, which has attrracted a very strong field. Once again an Irish win seems likely, with Aidan O´Brien represented by the ex-Franch US Ranger (Johnny Murtagh) and Kevin Prendergast by Haatef (Declan McDonogh), both of whom could take the top honours over this distance this year. US Ranger has been slightly disappointing, but clearly has Group One potential, and will start favourite today. Assertive (Richard Hannon/ Ryan Moore) could be the best of the Brits, having only gone down by a whisker at Newmarket last time, while Soldier´s Tale (Jeremy Noseda/ Frankie Dettori) is the question mark of the race. He could win this on the form he showed when winning last year´s Golden Jubnilee but has not run since and also carries a Group One penalty - as does ex-South African War Artist (James Eustace/ Kerrin McEvoy) - which does not make things any easier.

York May meeting

Many British racegoers (and especially those from Yorkshire) consider York to be the best racecourse in the U.K. and the May meeting, which starts today, is certainly one of the most attractive fixtures, featuring the major Oaks Trial, the Musidora Stakes (Group Three for 3yo fillies at 15.40 CET). This is usually one if the best trials for the Epsom classic, but this time even more so, as the 3 favourites for the Oaks line up here and whoever wins today will certainly be regarded as the likely Oaks winner. The main candidates are Jim Bolger´s Lush Lashes (Kevin Manning, noted running on strongly when 6th in the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket and as a daughter of Galileo almost certain to stay the trip; John Gosden´s Dar Re Mi (Jimmy Fortune), a most impressive Sandown maiden winner, and Aidan O´Brien´s Moonstone (Johnny Murtagh), runner-up in Leopardstown on her only race so far. Obviously Lush Lashes has the form in the book and is the one to beat, but both Dar Re Mi and Moonstone have bags of potential and have ben heavily backed for Epsom. Peter Chapple-Hyam´s Cape Amber (Jamie Spencer), an easy winner of her only start last season, also comes into the reckoning, but the other 4 fillies have in theory no chance.

Evening racing at Great Leighs, Newton Abbot and Killarney

Plenty of racing this eve mng, with all-weather action at Great Leighs, N.H. racing at Newton Abbot and a mixed meeting from Killarney in Ireland (3 races on the flat, 3 over jumps and a bumper), where Tony Martin, back to fporm at the weekend, can land a double with Reisk Superman (Paul Carberry) in the novice chase at 19.55 CT and Munnings (Fran Berry) in the 1 3/4 miles conditions race on the flat at 21.35. At Great Leighs, the class 4 handicap over 1 3/4 miles at 19.50 looks booked for Luca Cumani´s improving Boz (Jamie Spencer), who has won 6 of his last 7 races and still looks ahead of the handicapper. Ed Dunlop´s Temple of Thebes (Stephen Donohoe) was an easy winner of a maiden here 3 weeks ago and appears to have little to beat in the fillies´ handicap at 20.20. Some of the top jumps jpockeys turn out at Newton Abbot. Although Paul Nicholls has sent his stable stars to their summer break, he can still provide Ruby Walsh with two winners - Poquelin in the novice chase at 20.10 and Forest Green in the handicap huirdle at 21.40.

Brighton, Southwell and Yarmouth

Brirish racing this afternoon comes from Btrighton, Yarmouth and Southwell (all-weather), three tracks which normally stage only low level racing, as is the case today. Several specialists clash in the class 3 5 furlomgs handoap at 16.20 CET, notably Tartatartufata (Derek Shaw/ Dane O´Neil), who won twice over this trip here in January and has generally run well since in some quite decent events. Bo McGinty (Richard HJHahey/ Paulö Hanagan) was a CD here last time out, while Lord Hereford (Dean Ivory/ Robert Havlin) is very reliable. Top-weight Xpres Maite (Steve Bowring/ Phillip Makin) is much inproved and has won 5 of his last 7 races, but they were all over longer trips. The Hills family can be to the fore in Yarmouth. Jphn Hills saddles two runners with good chances, Ledgerwood (Jack Doyle) in the seller at 17.00 and Speyside, with brother Michael in the saddle, in the 3yo maioden over 10 furlongs half an hour later, while Michael´s twin Richard can take the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.00 aboard top-weight and unbeaten Musaalem for Willie Haggas. At Brighton, another CD spevcialist can add to hsi excellent record here - Prince Valentine in the mile handicap at 16.40. Ryan Moore is always dangerous when he teams up with father Gary. Summer of Love (Fergus Sweeney) looks interesting in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 17.10; trainer Alan King does very well when he runs his hurdles winners on the flat.

Strong card at Ascot

Despite the attraction of nearby Lingfield, Ascot also stages a strong card today, beginning with a listed race over 1 1/2 miles at 14.10 CET. Several possibilities here, including course specialist Young Mick (George Margarson/ Robert Winston) and Ivy Creek (Geoff Wragg/ Steve Drowne), but the one to beat is Luca Cumani´s Lion Sands (Jamie Spencer), whose trainer and jockey will be rushing off to Lingfield right after the race for Curtain Call´s Derby trial. The big betting race at Ascot is the Victoria Handicap over 7 furlongs at 15.20; 26 runners are declared, although there are likely to be some non-runners. Barry Hills sets a poser by saddling three, with twin sons Michael and Richard partnering Dabbers Ridge and Zaahid respectively, while Richard Quinn rides Giganticus, who has arguably the best chance on this good to firm ground. The going will also suit veteran Mine (Jamie Bethell/ Kerrin McEvoy), who won this race in 2004. Al Khaleej (Ed Dunlop/ Ryan Moore) is the likely favourite, after a very easy win on the all-weather, but of course this is much tougher.

Prix Greffulhe at Saint-Cloud

Theyr main event in France today is the Group Two Prox Greffuhle fr 3yo´s over 10 furlongs at 15.50 CET at saint-Cloud, a major trial for the French Derby. Only five runners, but eve so an interesting heat, in whic RFreddie Head´s unbeaten Trois Rois (Davy Bonilla) is the likely favourite, but Ripple (Jean-Claude Rouget/ Christophe Soumillon), an easy winner of both his starts this season and Prospect Wells (André Fabre/ Olivier Peslier), a short head behind Ripple last time out, both look dangerous. The Fabre runner has finished runner-up on all his starts so far, but it would be no surprise to see him get his head in front today, as the stable is now in top form. There are no German runners in Saint-Cloud today, while there is also trotting from Reims.

No Whit Monday

Whit Monday is no longer celebrated in Britain, so it is a normal ay today, with the usual poor Monday cards. There is flat racing this afternoon at Redcar, Yamouth and Wolverhampton (all-weather), and this evening at Windsor as well as a N.H.meeting at Towcester and a mixed card from Killarney in Ireland. Easily the best race of the day is the listed event for older horses over a mile at 19.55 CET this evening at Windsor. An interesting runner here is the Queen´s Banknote (Andrew Balding/ Francis Norton), winner a year ago of the Badener Meile. That form would give him a great chace here, and possibly the owner will make the short journey from the castle up on the hill to watch him run. The main dangers are Metropolitan Man (David Simcock/ Richard Mullen) and Dunelight (Clive Cox/ Adam Kirby).

French Guineas at Longchamp

A big day in Paris today, where the Longchamp card features the Poule d´Essai des Poulains (French 2,000 Guineas) at 15.50 CET and the Poule d´Essai des Pouliches (1,000 Guineas) at 16.25. Both have large fields, with the colts´ race having no fewer than 19 starters. It looks very open, and the large field and the effect of the draw mean that luck in running may well be the decisive factor. Three of the most fancied runners are badly drawn - Godolphin´s main hope Rio de la Plata (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), André Fabre´s Thewayyouare (Stephane Pasquier) and Freddie Head´s Tamayuz (Davy Bonilla), the latter two both still unbeaten. It may pay to concentrate on horses drawn in the centre, e.g. Aidan O´Brien´s selected Georgebernardshaw (Johnny Murtagh) and Godolphin´´s second string Il Warrd (Kerrin McEvoy). The fillies´ race on the other hand looks straightforward. On all known form, the Aga Khan´s Zarkava (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Christophe Soumillon), impressive winner of all her three starts so far and almost certainly the best filly in Europe, should win this easily, but probably at long odds-on. The Group Three Prix de St-Georges over 1000 metres at 17.00 is quite open. Calbuco (B. Dutreuil/ William Mongil) is much improved and has won his last three races but is facing better opposition now. Royer-Dupré´s Wilki (Christophe Lemaire) has the best overall profile, while German challenger Mario Hofer´s Mood Music (Dominique Boeuf) is not without a chance. Other German-trained runners here are Man of Fire (Erika Mäder/ Olivier Peslier), Famous (Mario Hofer/ Boeuf) and Vianconi (Dr.Bolte/ Soumillon), all in the 1400 metres seller at 17.35, and Andreas Trybuhl´s Grazilla (Mongil) in the 1950 metres handicap at 18.05.

Irish racing today

There is good flat racing today at Leopardstown and a N.H.meeting at Killarney. At Leopardstown, the two classic trials are the main features, and there are 6 runners in the Derby Trial at 16.55 CET over 10 furlongs, 3 of them trained by Aidan O´Brien and 2 by Dermot Weld. Judging by jockey bookings, Washington Irving (Seamus heffernan) and Casual Conquest (Pat Smullen) are their respective main hopes, but the odd man out, Kevin Prendergast´s Moiquen (Declan McDonogh) also boasts good form and can run out the winner. The 1,000 Guineas Trial at 17.25 can go to the Aga Khan´s Katiyra (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane), who won her only race last year in very promising style. Caribbean Sunset (Weld/ Smullen) and Charlotte Bronte (David Wachman/ Wayne Lordan) look the main dangers. The Group Three Amethyst Stakes over a mile at 18.25 sees the European debut of Australian Group One winner Haradusan (Heffernan), who is now with Aidan O´Brien. Any danger could come from Weld´s Tian Shan (Smullen), who is much improved this year. At Killarney, where there are the usual maximum fields, the main event is a valuable handicap hurdle at 16.35. Ex-German Schelm (Ronald O´Leary/ Robbie Power) has won both his starts in England this year but now meets tougher opposition, including Tony Martin´s Northern Alliance (Ruby Walsh) and Colm Murphy´s Bambootcha (Alan Crowe), who is going for a four-timer.

3 N.H. meetings

The only racing today in Britain is over jumps, with N.H. meetings at Plumpton, Uttoxeter and Worcester. With the fine weather continuing, the going will be on the fast side at all three meetings, but there are some decent fields, although stronger on quantity than quality. The best races are at Worcester, where Marodima (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) can take the class 3 handicap hurdle at 16.50; a winner over fences 3 times this year, he races off a very low mark over hurdles. The same team can double up in the class 3 handicap chase with the lightly-raced Smart Cavalier, who has been off the track for over a year, but can still cope with Philip Hobbs´ two challengers, top-weight Boychuk (Richard Johnson) and Storm of Applause (Tom O´Brien). At Uttoxeter, Pterodactyl (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) and Spare Cash (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) can land a short-priced double in the two novice hurdles that start off the card. At Plumpton, the most interesting runner is Barney Curley´s Le Soleil (Andrew/ Stringer/Paul Moloney), who makes his hurdles debut at 15.40 CET. The superbly-bred German gelding (by Monsun out of classic winner La Blue) should beat this opposition if jumping properly. Another possible German-bred winner is Jonathan Geake´s Absolut Power (Daryl Jacob), by Acatenango, for whom the distance of 2 1/2 miles on firm going at 17.40 looks ideal.

Mixed card at Haydock

Haydock stages an interesting meeting today, starting with 3 very competitive N.H. races, followed by 4 flat races. Best race over jumps is undoubtedly the valuable Swinton Handicap Hurdle over 2 miles at 15.00 CET. With 24 runners this is wide open, although the betting suggests that Irish raider Leg Spinner (Tony Martin/ Ruby Walsh) and Blue Bajan (Amdrew Turell/ Graham Lee) are the two to beat. Tony Martin has an excellent record in big British handicaps and Leg Spinner has proved to be a money-spinner on many occasions and will have the fast ground he needs. Two useful ex-flat horses Group Captain (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) and Chantaco (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) are among the main threats. Best event on the flat is the listed 7 furlongs race at 17.30. Welsh Emperor (Tom Tate/ Micky Fenton) is the likely favourite here, but the ground may not be to his liking. For beckermet (Roger Fisdher/ Chris Catlin) the distance may be a shade too far. Ex-German Raptor (Kark Burke/ Fergus Sweeney) is however running over his best trip, while Diamond Tycoon (Brian Meehan/ Neil Callan) has been dropped in distance and looks a danger to all.

Classic trials at Lingfield

Lingfield stages its biggest turf meeting of the year today, with its two classic trials as well as Group Three event for fillies over 7 furlongs, the Chartwell Fillies Stakes at 16.45 CET. This seems destined to go to France, as Alain de Royer-Dupré´s Sabana Perdida (Christophe Lemaire), an ex-Italian filly who won a Group Three on fast groubd at Longchamp last year. and Richard Gibson´s Verba (Stephane Pasquier) have easilythe best form credentials, although the löatter possibly needs it softer. The same applies to the two main protagonists in the Derby Trial at 16.10. Luca Cumani´s Curtain Call (Jamie Spencer) is clearly the one to beat here ad is currently quoted as second favourite for the Derby; both Cumani´s previous Epsom winners won here first - in 1988 and 1998, so perhaps the ten-year cycle will be continued. Previousy with Jessica Harrington, the Sadlers Wells colt made a pleasing reappearance, but this looks much tougher. Aidan O´Brien´s main hope is clearly Alessandro Volta (Johnny Murtagh), but he is by Montjeu, whos progeny usually also need some cut. The Godolphin contender Campanologist (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori) is having his first race for the stable after being switched from Mark Johnston, and he certainly acts on this ground, so he can possibly end Godolphin´s losing run so far this season. The Oaks Truial at 15.40 is now only a listed race and usually has less Epsom significance. It appears to lie between Aidan O´Brien´s Ice Queen (Murtagh) and then only unbeaten filly in the field, Look Here (Seb Sanders), trained by Ralph Beckett, who won this race last year.

Huge fields today

A busy Saturday, with 7 British meetings (two in the evening) and one Irish. Only Hexham has a full N.H. card, but both Haydock and Downpatrick have a mixed meeting. With the exception of the classic trials at Lingfield, there are generally large, and in some cases, huge fields despite the firming ground. With manly low level racing at Hexham and Downpatrick, and this evening at Warwick and Thirsk, we shall concentrate on the top meetings at Lingfield, Ascot, Haydock and Nottingham.

More German winners in France?

After German winners both days at Lyon, attention now switches back to Paris where once again there are good possibilities of a further German success. Kochan Cie (Michael Trybuhl/ Christophe Soumillon) runs in the 1800 metres race for 3yos at 14.50, while the same trainer has booked William Mongil to ride Nogaro in the mile seller at 16.50, where Soumillon partnersGlobal Champion for Mario Hofer. Hans Walter Hiller´s Lava Rock finally has the firm ground he needs and could spring a surprise in the 2000 metres handicap at 17.20.

Irish racing this evening

There are two Irish meetings this evening, Downpatrick and Wexford, both mixed cards. At Downpatrck there are 4 races over hurdles and 3 flat races (all for apprentices).Best bet should be Gerard Cully´s Takeyourpick (M.J.O´Connor) in the 2 mile 5 furlongs maiden hurdle for amateur riders at 19.05 CET, who has won 6 point-to-points this season. At Wexford there are 3 hurdles races, 3 on the flat and one biumper. Best horse on view is probably King of Westphalia (Seamus Heffernan) who runs in the 3yo maiden over 1 mile 5 furlongs at 19.45. Although he is far from being the biggest star in Aidan O´Brien´s stable, he is one of the best-bred (his dam was runner-up in 3 classics) and he should be able to outclass this evening´s opposition.

Evening racing in the U.K.

There is racing this evening at Ripon and Hamilton (flat) and Aintree (N.H.). At Aintree the two class 3 handicaps are the best races and both look very competitive. Otarie (Alan King/ Robert Thonrton) and Swampy Blue (Tony Martin/ Robie Clgan) are both fancied for the 3 mils hurdles race at 19.50 CET, but Our Jim (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) looks a better option. The two miles handicap chase at 20.20 is wide open, but Vic Dartnall´s Benetwood may provide the answer with the assistance of champion jockey Tony McCoy. John Dunlop is always dangerous when sending runners to Yorkshire, and he can score a double at Ripon with Eglevski in the 10 furlongs handicap at 20.30 and Alsadeek in the 3yo maiden over 6 furlongs at 21.05, both partnered by Seb Sanders. There are only 6 runers in the class 3 conditions race for 3yo´s at Hamilton, but it is still quite tricky. All 6 are previous winners, and River Ardeche (Pat Haslam/ Paul Mulrean) is still unbeaten, but on official ratings, the race should be between Exhibition (Simon Callaghan/ Pat Dobbs), Perfect Polly (Jeremy Noseda/ Shane Kelly) and Van Bossed (David and Adrian Nicholls).

Lingfield and Nottingham

There is also flat racing this afternoon at Lingfield and Nottingham. St Lingfield, where there are 4 races on turf and 2 on the all-weather, it is a prelude to tomorrro´w card, thewir best turf meeting of the year. Best race today is the class 4 5 furlongs handicap on turf at 16.10 CET, in which German-bred and bottom weight Misaro (Ron Harris/ Kevin Ghunowa) has a chance, but top-weight Mondovi (Nick Vaughan/ Eddie Ahern) is an interesting candidate; trained last year by Andreas Wöhler, he won 3 rimes from 5 starts in Germany, finishing with an asy winner over this trip at Baden-Baden. At Nottingham, trainer Barry Hills ad hius jockey son Michael can win the first two races with Provence, in a 3yo maiden over 6 furlongs at 14.30, and Art Princess (2yo maiden fillies) half a hour later.

Chester - day three

Today is the third and final day of Chester´s popular May meeting, and once again tthere are two Greoupo Three races on the card. The Dee Stakes for 3yo´s over 10 furlongs at 15.15 CET can be regarded as a Derby trial and Henry Cecil won both races with Oath; today he is represented by the consistent and progressive Unnefer (TEd Durcan), but he faces strong opposition, notably from Aidan O´Brien´s Achill Island (Johnny Murtagh), Sir Michael Stoute´s Tajaaweed (Richard Hills) and especially Alexandros (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori). The Godolphin horse would be a strong selection were the stable form better. The Ormonde Stakes half an hour lateris for older horses over 1 mile 5 furlongs and also has a strong field. Aidan O´Brien´s Macarthur (Murtagh) i the likely favourite here; although he was a bit disappointing last season, he has always been highly rated. Raincoat (John Gosden/ Dettori)is a danger, while the German-owned front-runner Tempelstern (Cecil/ Durcan) ran her best race ever last time at Newbury and holds Red Gala (Stoute/ Jamie Spencer) on that form.

Chester - day two

The popular Chester May meeting continues today, with two Group Three races as the main features. Looking tg the future, the more significant is undoubtedly the Chester Vase for 3yo colts over 1 /2 miles at 15.45 CET, the first of a series of major Derby trials to be held in the next few days. Two winners in recent years hae gone on to score at Epsom, while last year´s winner Soldier of Fortune went on to take the Irish Derby. He was trained by Aidan O´Brien, who has two entered this time, Vivaldi (Johnny Murtagh) and Wassily Kandinsky (David McCabe), who is presumably entered as a pacemaker. With O´Brien´s 3y´s in such god form - including here yesterd - Vivaldi must be respected, but on the form book he faces a tough task against some colkts who are rated much higher, including Barry Hills´ Feared in Flight (Jamie Spencer), third in the Racing Post Trophy, Sir Michael Stoute´s Doctor Fremantle (Ryan Moore), first or second all four starts so far, as well as John Gosden´s Pampas Cat (Jimmy Fortune), an impressive Newmarket winner on his only run to date. Certainly the most popular winner of the day would be Stoute´s Maraahel (Richard Hills), who attempts to win the Huxley Stakes for older horses over 10 furlongs at 15.15 for the fourth year running. If he finishes first or second here, he will bring his career winnings up to over a million pounds, a deserved reward for many excellent performances. However he will not be gifted the race, as Henry Cecil´s Multidimensional looks very dangerous in receipt of 5 pounds. Last time out he looked a bit unlucky when fourth in similar company at Newmarket, with Stotsfold (Walter Swinburn/ Adam Kirby), a CD specialist, just behind. Championship Point (Mick Channon/ Darryll Holland) also hasb possibilities, although both he and Maraahel were well behind Multidimensional in last year´s Champion Stakes.

France today

There is racing again this afternoon from Lyon, as well as trotting from Cherbourg. There was a good German yesterday at Lyon, and there could be another one today, as Karen Haustein´s Global Dream must have a good chance in the mile conditions race at 16.20. Gestüt Auenquelle´s runner, winner of the Maurice Lacroix-Trophy at Baden-Baden at two, was trained by Uwe Ostmann last year and is now having his first run since flopping in the German Derby, and also his first run for his in-form trainer. Other German runners on the card are Pegmalion in the mile handicap for 4yo s at 14.20 and Courthouse Steps in the 2400 metres seller at 17.20, both trained by Dieter Fechner and partnered by Dominique Boeuf and Alxi Badel respectively, and they are also not without chances.

Clonmel and Great Leighs

There is also racing this evening at Clonmel in Ireland and Great Leighs (all-waether), where the best race is the class 4 handicap over 1 furlongs at 19.40 CET. An interesting runner here is the ex-German Birkspiel (Simon Dow/ Jimmy Quinn), who has however been totally out of form on his last few runs, but has now slipped to a very favoable rating. He seems to be best on heavy going, so it remains to be seen how he will cope here. Two who will certainly cope are Basra (Jo CRowley/ Richard Mullen) and Mataram(Willie Jarvis/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert), who fought out the finish of a milar race here a fortnight ago; Basra came out of top then but Mataram may be able to turn the tables now on 5 lbs better terms. Art Man (Gary Moore/ George Baker), who has won 3 of his last 4 races, isd also dangerous, but is another one running a this track for the first time. At Clonmel thdre is a mixed card, with 3 flat races, 3 N.H. and one jumper. Most interesting runner on the card is The Ethiopian (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry), who is making his jumping debut in the maiden hurdle at 18.25. If he jumps round safely, this own brother to Derby winner High Chaparral ought to win this easily.

3 jumps meetings today

N.H. fans have plenty to look forward to today, as there is jumps racing this afternoon at Newton Abbot and this evening at Wetherby and Wincanton. There are generally good fields, but with the ground firming up at all 3 tracks, punters are advised to watch out for non-runners. At Wetherby, where the steeplchase course is still unfit for racing, there is an all-hurdles card, and conditional jockey Brian Hughes may have good rason to be cheerful. Not only does he ride a horse for that name for Alan Swinbank, the likely favourite in the bunper at 21.30 CET but he has three other good rides, Little Luu in tre maiden hurdle at 19.00, Doris´ Gift in the handicap hurdle at 21.00, both for Swinbank, and possibly his most interesting mount, smart flat handicapper Bolodenka making his hurdles debut at 19.30 for Richard Fahey. Best race at Newton Abbot is the class 3 handicap hurdle at 17.20, which looks very tricky, especially as Paul Nicholls saddles three and Philip Hobbs two runners. On jockey bookings, it would appear that Templer (Richard Johnson) and King Caine (Sam Thomas) respectively are their main hopes, but ex-German Glad Big (Richard Phillips/ Sean Quinlan) also looks dangerous. He flopped last time on soft going but had won two of his three previous races in good style. Wincanton´s man feature this evening is the 3 mile 1 furlong handicAp chase at 19.50. 13yo Even More (Sally Alner/ Daryl Jacob) is still a class act and can take this despite top weight. Consistent Mister Apple´s (Jason Maguire), whose trainer Ian Williams landed the biggest win of his career in yesterday´s Chester Cup, is the danger, while both Alam (Dr. Newland/ Sam Jones) and Dickensbury Lad (Nigel Twston-Davis/ Paddy Brennan) are possibles on a going day.

Goodwood today

Main event at this afternoon´s Goodwood meeting - relatively low level by the normal standards at this track - is the class 2 5 furlongs race for 2yo´s at 15.30 CET. Only 5 runners, with both Richard Hannon and Mick Channon saddling two. Hannon´s pair look much stronger, with Doughnut (Richard Hughes) presumably the stable´s preferred over Icesolator (Pat Dobbs), and easy CD winner only last Saturday. The fifth runner, also in with a chance, is Willie Jarvis´ Smokey Storm, who was a narrow winner last time at Brighton. The 6 furlongs handicap at 16.00 looks really wide open, and almost 15 runners can be given a chance, but this be an opportunity for Andrew Balding´s Dingaan (William Buick), who likes it here, to make up for a very unlucky run last Saturday; that was his fifth fourth place in a row, so he is obviously not one to lump on at short odds.

N.H. racing this evening

Plenty of action for jumprong fans this evening, with N.H. racing at Huntingdon and Cheltenham and from Ireland at Punchestown. Cheltenham stages 6 hunter chases, the best of which is the 3 1/4 mile race at 19.10 CET. Take the Stand (Peter Bowen/ Dr. D.F. Devereux) -in his prime Gold Cup- placed - narowly beat Merchants Friend (J. Dufosee/ Mr. R. Bliss) over this CD last time, but on 6 lbs better terms the latter can perhaps turn the tables. However Yoiu do the Math (Charlie Longsdon/ Mr.J.S.Horton) is much improved and can defeat them both. At Huntingdon Charlie Mann saddles German-bred Cortinas (Noel Fehily) in the opening novice hurdle at 18.25; after a good win this CD two months ago, he has several times been a non-runner because of the soft ground, but conditions should be ideal today. Another Fährhof-bred Floreana races for the same connections in the 3 mile handicap chase at 19.30, but faces a much tougher task, while yet another German-bred Twist Bookie (Sam Lycett/ Robbie Killoran) carries top weight in the handicap hurdle at 20.05 and is another one who goes well on this going. At Punchestown Ruby Walsh can make up for his disappoiintments yesterday evening as he has three rides with winning chances, Hurricane Fly for Willie Mullins at 18.50, Arc Bleu - another German-bred - for Tony Martin at 19.25 and Genuine Pearl for his father at 20.30.

Beverley and Fakenham

There is also racing this afternoon at Beverley (flat) and Fakenham (N.H.). Beverley , like Chester, is a track where the draw is all-important, and here the high numbers are strongly favoured. In this case, the horses to concentrate on are Pawan (Ann Stokell), Glasshoughton (Michael Dods/ Phillip Makin) and Namir (Derek Shaw/ Duran Fentiman) in the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.30 CET, and Ansells Pride (Bryan Smart/ Tom Eaves), Collateral Damage (Tim Easterby/ Duran Fentiman) and Froissee (Simon Callaghan/ Stephen Donohoe) in the mile handicap at 16.40, easily the best race on the card. At Fakenham the ground is firming up and punters should check for non-runners. Paul Nicholls, despite a bad evening at Exeter yesterday, looks the man to follow and Ofarel d´Airy, reverting to hurdles in the novice race over 3 miles at 16.30 after some unfortnate experiences over fences, and Ocean du Moulin in the noice chase at 17.05, both with Sam Thomas in the saddle, are both likely to start hot favourite. The latter however faces a stern opponent in Guy Haine´s The Sliotar (Jamie Moore), winner of 3 of his last 4 races and running for the first time in a steeplechase.

Chester - day one

The three day May meeeting at Chester, one of the most popular in the British calendar, starts today. The tight track, inside the old Rolamn walls, is known as the Roodee and there has been racing here for 500 years. The run-in is only 230 yards - easily the shortest in Britain - so it is essential to have a good position on the final bend and an outside draw here (high numbers) is a huge disadvantage. Today´s big races are the liste Cheshire Oaks at 15.15 CET and the Chester Cup at 15.45. The latter race, one of the most valuable staying races of the season, is run over more than 2 1/4 miles and the field passes the stands three times. The winning owner receives not only plenty of cash, but also a huge cheese, as Chrser is at the centre of the excellent British cheese industry. It is very much a race for specialists, so that Greenwich Meantime (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan), who finished third here in 20 and won it last year, has to be on the short list. However the two to beat are probably the lightly-weighted Highland Legacy (Michael Bell/ Jamie Spencer) and Double Banded (John Dunlop/ Kerrin McEvoy), both of whom won in good style last time out. Barry Hills is always a trainer to be feared here and he can win the Cheshire Oaks with Sugar Mint, with son Michael in the saddle. Laughter (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) and Irish raider Sail (Aidan O´Brien/Johnny Murtagh) are the two main dangers, but both need to show improvement.

German runners at Saint-Cloud

More German runners today, this time at Saint-Cloud. In the mile race fgor 3yo maiden fillies at 14.35 CET Werner Baltromei saddles Masquenada (Dominique Boeuf). Boeuf partners two more mounts for Baltromei later, Delano in a 2000 metres race at 16.35 and Titan War in the 3yo seller at 17.05, in which Andreas Trybuhl has entered Illimani (Maxime Guyon). Trybuhl also runs Fancy Running (Jerome Lermyte) in a mile handicap for 4yo´s at 17.35. There is also French trotting at Beaumont in the afternoon and Vncennes this evening.

Catterick, Chepstow and Southwell

There is flat racin this afteroon at Cherpstow and Southwell (all-weathet) and this evening at Catterick. At Chepstow the class 4 mile handicap for 3yo´s at 17.10 CET is the best race and looks very open. Mega Watt (Willie Jarvis/ Alan Munro), Just Rob (Reg Hollinshead/ Ted Durcan) and Sahaadi (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) are three for the short list here. At Southell, Aan Swinbank´s Goodbye, narrowly beaten twice n the last few days, can get her head in frontz in the fillies´ mile handicap at 16.30, whilwe the three top-weights Bentley Brook (Paul Blockley/ SophiDoyle), Srikuntuan (Paul Cole/ Richard Quinn) and The King and I (Emma Lavelle/ Neil Callan) can dominate the 11 furlomngs handicap half an hour later. Best bet on the card is Yakimov (Ollie Pears/ Jamie Moriarty), who can complete a five-timer (all here) in the mile claimer at 16.00. Another likelx vclaimer winner is Court of Appeal (Brian Ellison/ Tom Eaves) in the 19.35 at Catterick. He won the same race last year, and scored last time out in a modest event at Mussellburgh. Ellison and Eaves can go on to complete a double with Daaweitza in the 7 furlongs handicap at 20.05.

N.H. racing at Kelso and Exeter

Two jumps meetings today. Kelso this afternoon and Exeter this evening, with generally low loevel sport,m but it could be significant that Paul Nicholls brings Ruby Walsh over for two rides at Exeter: Simondium, who was a well-beaten favourite on his only hurdles start back in November, in the maiden hurdle at 18.50 and Oumeyade in the class 3 handicap hurdle over 3 miles at 17.50 CET, the best race on the card. He was a very easy winner last week at Ludlow, and despite his 7 lbs penalty and a slightly longer trip, can score again. At Kelso, theclass 3 novice chase over 3 miles 1 furlong looks at the mercy of Flight Leader (Colin and Joe Tizzard) as long as he sdtands up. This is his first time ov er fances, but he was far and away the best of hurdls, despite falling last time at Cheltenham. Shopuldf anythin happen to him, reliable Palmers Peak (Martin Keighley/ Warren Marston) is the one who can take advantage. The latter´s connections can also take the following novices handicap hurdle with Ocarito, who has the lightly-weighted Native Coil (Neil Alexander/ Graham Lee) to beat.

Hocquart and d´Hedouville at Longchamp

There is also a strong card at Longchamp this afternoon with the Group Two Prix Hocquart over 2200 metres for 3yo´s at 15.50 the main feature. This important classic trial could well be dominated by the Head family, as Freddie saddles the much improved Celebrissime (Olivier Peslier), while his sister Criquette Head-Maarek runs Full of Gold (Thierry Gillet), owned and bred by their parents. Full of Gold is the highest-rate runner and was a narrow winner this CD last month from Court Canibal (Mikel Delzangles/ Christophe Soumillon), who will now be out for revenge. There is a German runner in the Group Three Prix d´Hedouville over 1 1/2 miles at 16.20, Peter Remmert´s Dwilano (Jiri Palik), who ran well behind Oriental Tiger at Cologne last month and could well run into the money. André Fabre´s German-bred Noble Prince (Stephane Pasquier) looks the one to beat. Other races of German interest are the listed mile race at 14.20, in which Baron Ullmann´s Echoes Rock (Fabre/ Pasquier) and recent Cologne winner Willingly (Michael Trybuhl/ Adrie de Vries) are engaged, and the 1800 metres handicap at 16.50, in which Werner Baltromei´s Genoveva (Domninique Boeuf) and Dr. Andreas Bolte´s Ebulobo (Christophe Soumillon) both run.

Ireland today

It is a also a busy day in Ireland, with a high class card from the Curragh as well as N.H. racing (with huge fields)from Down Royal and Limerick. The Curragh stages 3 Grpoup Three races today, starting wit the Tetrarch Stakes over 7 furlongs for3yo´s at 15.40 CET. Bruges (David Myerscough/ Willie Supple) created a very favourable impression when winning both his starts last year, and although he has been off the track since July, can remain unbeaten. Well-bred War Eagle (David Wachman/ Johnny Murtagh) looks the main danger. The Athasi Stakes for fillies and mares at 16.10 is also over 7 furlongs, and Mick Channon´s Silver Touch (Tadge O´Shea) can possibly score a British success, but Dimenticata (Kevin Prendergast/ Chris Hayes) and Cheyenne Star (Frances Crowley/ Seamus Heffernan) are serious opponents. Some smart older horses line up in the Mooresbridge Stakes over 10 furlongs at 17.10. Aidan O´Brien´s Mount Nelson looks the interesting one here; a Group One winner in France at two, he has only raced once since, when down the field in the Champion Stakes. If anywhere near his best,. he would hold an obvious chance. Recommended on recent form is Jessica Harrington`s Jumbajukita (Davy Condon), already a group winner this year this CD, while consistent Mores Wells (Kevin Prendergast/ Declan McDonogh) can never be left out of calculations.

Ireland today

There is a good flat card at Gowran Park today, as well as N.H. racing from Sligo (6 races over hurdkes and a bumper). The classic trial over 1 1/2 miles at 16.35 CET at Gowran Park sees Hebridean (Aidan O´Brien/ Seamus Heffernan) and Unwritten Rule (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen) in opposition again. They finished first and second in the Ballysax Stakes at Leopardstown a fortnight ago, but it is possible that Weld´s runner can reverse the form over this longer trip. The Aga Khan´s Ebadiyan (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane) is moving up in grade but is a promising stayer and can possibly beat them both. The same connections have good chances of winning the listed fillies race over 9 furlongs at 17.10 with Zafayra, also an easy winner at Dundalk last time. Chinese White (Weld/ Smulölen) who won her only race last season in good style, looks the danger. At Sligo the going is heavy, and there are maximum fields for most races. However only 10 run in the hurdle race at 17.30, which should go to Willie Mullins´ Young Milly (Ruby Walsh). Walsh can double up half an hour later with Rare Article for Dessie Hughes in the maiden hurdle over 2 1/4 miles.

Salisbury and Hamilton

There is also flat racing in Britain today at Salisbury and Hamilton, but nothing f great mprtance. At Hamilton, Alan Swinbank´s Evelith Regent,a decent bumper horse who ran a good recond on his only flat start, should take the 11 furlongs maifen race at 17.40 CET. At Salisbury, the best event is the 6 furlongs handiap for 3yo´s at 15.25. Last time out easy winners Dunn´o (Clive Cox/ Richard Thomas) and Restless Genius (Andrew Balding/ Liam Jones) have obvious prospects of scorin again, but top-weight Oasis Word (Paul Cole7 Seb Sanders) sets the standard. Sanders also rires the top-weight Wing Express (Paul Cole) in the other class 2 handicap at 17.50, this time over 1 3/4 miles, and this lightly-raced sport can take this on his way to better things. Balding´s Albinus (Darryll Holland), a good hurdler having his first run on the flat for almost 3 years, looks the danger.

1.000 Guineas at Newmarket

After yesterday´s dramatic race for the 2000 Guineas, today´s 1000 promises to be another thrilling race, with almost all the top 3yo fillies in Europe lining up in the field of 15. Cheveley Park Stud´s unbeaten pair Infallible (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune) and Spacious (James Fanshawe/ Jamie Spencer) will be representing the Newmarket area and both should go well, but this is another classic that could go abroad - to France, where Pascal Bary´s grey filly Natagora is trained. She has done nothing wrong so far, and her jockey Christophe Lemaire has an excellent record here. John Dunlop´s Muthabara (Richard Hills) is another serious candidate after her demolition job at Newbury, but reportedly met with a slight setback earlier this week. After yesteray´s result nobody will be underestimating the Irish challenge, with two runners each from Aidan O´Brien - Savethisdanceforme (Ryan Moore) and Kitty Matcham (Johnny Murtagh) - and Jim Bolger - Saoirse Abu (Kevin Manning) and Lush Lashes ( Kerrin McEvoy).

Racing this evening

There is evening racing at Doncaster (flat), Hexham (N.H.) and Kilbeggan in Ireland. There are huge fields at the Kilbeggan N.H.meetng, where the best bet should be Clear Riposte (Willie Mullins/Davy Condon) in the mares beginners chase at 21.05 CET; she is making her chase debut, but was easily the best of these over hurdles. By contrast there are small fields, where racing goes agead after an inspection, and quite likely to be some non-runners because of the heavy going; Nicky Richards can land a double here with Etched in Stone (Rose Davidson)) at 19.55 and Mr. Barnacle (Brian Harding) at 21.00. Best rce at Doncaster is the 6 furlongs hamdicap at 20.20, which looks very open with 15 runners.It is made even more complicated by the fact that both David Nicholls and Alan McCabe intend to saddle three runners. Turnkey (Adele Rothery) and Cornus (Robert Winston) respectively are possibly their best chances, but almost anything is possible. Only 3 turn out for the class 3 conditions race for 3yo´s over a mile at 20.50, including Simnon Callaghan´s Gaspar van Wittel (Seb Sanders), an intended runner in the German 2,000 Guineas. However he may not be able to give 2 lbs to Godolphin´s smart Iguazu, Frankie Dettori´s only mount of the evening.

Goodwood, Thirsk and Uttoxeter

There is also flat racing this afternoon at Goodwood and Thirsk, as well as N.H. racing from Uttoxeter. At Goodwood, the listed races for fillies and mares over a mile at 16.40 CET is the main event, and looks quite open with 9 runners. Chantilly Tiffany (Ed Dunlop/ Stephen Donohoe) just holds Nans Joy (Eoghan O´Neill/ Chris Catlin) on their all-weather running last time, but Lady Gloria (James Given/ Tom Queally), a listed winner in France when last seemn in November, and Sweet Lilly (Mick Chnon/ Tadge O´Shea), slightly disappointing in good company in Dubai but whose fourth place in the Nassau Stakes here is the best form in the race, also look dangerous. At Thirsk, the class 2 Hunt Cup, a mile handicap at 16.45, is the main feature. With 15 runners, this is very tricky. Collateral Danage (Tim Easterby/ Duran Fentiman) just beat Capable Guest (Mick Channon/ Robert Winston) at Pontefract at the end of March, but there should be little between them now. Extraterrestrial (Richarc Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) and Regal Parade (David Nicholls/ PJMcDonald), both runners-up last time out, also come into the reckoning. At Uttoxeter, Alan King and Robert Thornton can be the combination to follow. They can win the class 2 handicap hurdle at 16.30 with Sovereign King and the class 2 handicap chase at 17.05 with Kandjar d´Allier.

2.000 Guineas at Newmarket

The 2,000 Guineas, the first major classic of the European season, will be run for the 200th time today at 16.25 CET at Newmarket and the standard of the field looks well up to standard. Favourite is Jim Bolger´s New Approach (Kevin Manning), unbeaten in 5 races last season, when he was the top-rated 2yo in Europe. Now running in the colours of Princess Haya, he will be attempting to make up for Bolger´s misfortune last year, when his equally strongly fancied Teofilio had to miss the race through injury. New Approach has not run since winning the Dewhurst Stakes over 7 furlings here last October, but the vibes from the stable are very positive, and he is clearly the one to beat. On Dewhurst form he holds John Gosden´s Ravens Pass (Jimmy Fortune), who made an excellent seasonal debut when just pipped here in the Craven Stakes and will be suited by the drying ground. However a more dangerous opponent could be Godolphin´s Ibn Khaldun (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), who was tremendously improved last autumn, winning his last 4 races including the Racing Post Trophy and is the subject of favourable reports. Although in recent years the Godolphin stable has needed time to come into form in Britain, this may npot e the case this year as they have apparently had an uninterrupted preparation. He will be the first Godolphin runner in Europe of 2008. On ratings, these three stand out and they also dominate the betting, so the winner is likely to come from this trio; if anyone is to upset them it could be Henrythenavigator (Johnny Murtagh), the better of Aidan O´Brien´s two runners.

French racing today

Flat racing in France today comes from Bordeaux-le-Bouscat, while there is trotting this afternoon at Le Mans and this evening at Vincennes. At Boreaux there are unusually 9 races, including two steeplechases. Best bet of the meeting is probably the Aga Khan´s Whisperor (Christophe Soumillon) in the opening race for 3yo´s but he will be at very short odds. Soumillon can also take the mile handicap at 16.20 CET with the German-bred Notar, although the outside draw (16 of 16) could be a problem. The inconsistent King Crimson, also ex-German, runs in the third division of this handicap at 17.50.

N.H.racing this evening

There is N.H. racing this evening at Bangor and Fontwell with mainly low-level racing. Gary Moore is always a trainer to follow at Fontwell and he has several chances, notably with Lupanar in the 4yo hurdle at 19.10 CET and Prime Contender in the claiming hurdle at 20.10, both of whom will be partnered by son Jamie. Best race at Bangor is the class 3 handicap chase over 2 1/2 miles at 20.30. Bottom-weight Massini Sunset (Nick Mitchell/ Charlie Huxley) is much improved and has already won 4 races this year; he is now stepping up in grade, but can score again. If the ground dries out, German-bred Pretty Star (Alan King/ Christian Williams) could be the danger.

Irish racing this evening

There are 2 Irish meetings this evening, all-weather racing at Dundalk and a mixed meeting at Cork. Ther best race is the listed Cork Stakes over 6 furkoings at 18.50 CET, in which British raider Tax Free (David and Adrian Nicholls) will be trying to improve his impressive foreign record. He is the best horse in the field, but has to shoulder top-weight and may not be suited by thre yielding going. The lightly-raced Finicius (Eoin Griffin/ Declan McDonogh) and the much improved Mojito Royale (Eoin Doyle/ DMGrant) both look dangerous under these conditions. The Grade Three handicap chase here at 20.20 looks wide open, but Third Level Tom (Chartlie Byrnes/ Niall Madden) and Clarkey (Christy Roche/ Alan Crowe) were both runners-up last time and should go close. At Dundalk, Vincenzo Galileo (Ger Lyons/ Kevin Latham) is clear best on ratings in the 10 furlongs conditions race at 22.40 and ought to win with ease.

Lingfield, Musselburgh and Southwell

This afternoon sees three flat meetings in Britain, Lingfield (all-weather), Musselburgh and Southwell, where most of the races are on turf. The best race of the afternoon is the 5 furlongs conditions event at Musselburgh at 16.50 CET, which sees 2 of Briotain´s best sprinters at the start- Desert Lord (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan) and Borderlescott (Robin Bastiman/ Robert Winston). Desert Lord won the Prox de l´Abbaye in 2006 ad is slightly the better on ratings, but the ground may be too soft for him here and Borderlescott, who failed to win last year but was runner-up no fewer than 6 times - always narrowly beaten in good company- can be preferred. Callan and Ryan can go one better with CD specialist Cha Cha Dancer in the 7 furlongs handicap an hour later, where Alan Swinbank´s Stevie Gee (PJMcDonald) looks the one to beat. Swinbank´s best chance could be top-weight First Buddy (Callan) in the 9 furlongs handicap at 16.20, an easy winner last week who appears to hae littrle to beat here. At Lingfieldthere are two class 2 handicaps for older horses, both with small fields but quite competitive nonetheless. Over 7 furlongs at 16.40, consistent Ceremonial Jade (Marco Botti/ Seb Sanders), who has an excellent record here, can beat top- out winners who are racing for the first time at this track. Hannon and Hughes also team up with likely favourite Mr. Aviator over 10 furlongs half an hour later, who has Pinch of Salt (Andrew Balding/ Martin Dwyer) and Jamie Spencer´s mount Ladies Best, who is running for the first time for Liuca Cumani after being sold for a large sum out of the Stoute stable last winter, to beat. Best race at Southwell is the 7 furlongs handicap at 18.00, in which Game Park (James Fanshawe/ Oscar Urbina) and Great Charm (Michael Bell/ Tom Queally) appear to hold the best chances.

Prix du Muguet at Saint-Cloud

The Group Two Prix du Muguet over a mile at 15.50 CET is the main feature at Saint-Cloud today and has often been won in the past by German-trained runners. That will not be the case today, but there could be a winner with German conections,as Andre Fabre saddles two runners, Baron Ullmann´s Persian Storm (Stephane Pasquier) and the Japanese-owned Turfrose (Johan Victoire), who were both bred in Germany. Hot favourite here is Olivier Peslier´s mount, the very consistent Spirito del Vento. There are two German-trained runners on the undercard, Andreas Trybuhl´s Ziethe (Antony Crastus) in the opening mile race for 4yo´s at 13.50, and Dr. Andreas Bolte´ s Pompidou (M. Scandella) in the 2100 metres conditions race at 16.30, but both face a very stiff task.

Evening racing at Great Leighs, Huntingdon and Tipperary

There is racing ths evening at Great Leigs (all-weather), Huntingdon (flat) and from Irelada mixed meeting at Tipperary. Most interesting event at the Irish track is the 7 furlongs race for 3yo maiden fillies at 19.30 CET. Cherassdotcom (Mike Halford/ Robbie Cleary), thoird last year on his only run, is the pick on public form, but the two well-bred newcomers from top stables look dangerous - the Aga Khan´s Raydiya (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane) and Hamdan al Maktoum´s Anaaween (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen). Luca Cumani and Jamie Spencer look the team to follow at Great Lewihs, and can score a double with Boz in the 1 3/4 miles handicap at 18.50 and Sky Dive in the mile handicap for 3yo´s half an hour later. The novice hurdle at 19.10 at Huntingdon looks to lie between German-bred Fairyland (Nicky Henderson/ Andrew Tinkler), a half-sister to Fair Along, and Noticeable (Alan King/ Christian Williams), runner-up in a similar event at Kempton last time out. The beginners chase an hour later also looks a two horse race, between Heathcote (Gary and Jamie Moore) and Misbehaviour (Jim Best/ Robert Lucey-Butler).

Folkestone, Hereford, Redcar

It is not a public holiday in Britain today, so there is a normal programme with 3 cards this afternoon and 3 this evening (including Ireland), all featuring very low level racing. This afternoon´s racing come from Folkestone and Redcar (flat) and Hereford (N.H.). At the latter track, Alan King´s Oh Crick (Robert Thornton), who was quite a useful hurdler, is expected to get of the mark over fences at the first time of asking in the beginners chase at 15.40 CET. There are big fields at Hereford (6 of the 7 races have 14 or more runners), with16 lining up in the mafres novice hurdle half an hour later, but this should only concern Arctic Magic (Wilf Kittow/ Paddy Brennan)and Hora (Nicky Henderson/ Felix de Giles). At Redcar, where the going is very soft after yesterday´s heavy rain, (and there will be lots of non-runners as a result), two likely winning favourites are Alan Swinbank´s Stevie Thunder (PJMcDonald) in the 3yo mile handicap at 16.00 (raised 8 lbs for a very easy win of the soft 3 weeks ago) and Storyland (William Haggas/ Kerrin McEvoy), who created a favourable impression when 7th of 15 in a good Newmarket maiden last October and can take the 3yo maiden over 7 furlongs at 16.30. At Folkestone the 6 furlongs handicap at 16.50 could develop into a match between the two top-weights Savile´s Delight (Tom Dascombe/ Robert Kingscote) and After the Show (Rae Guest/ Chris Catlin), who is going for a four-timer. James Fanshawe´s Nutkin (Oscar Urbina) should win the concluding 10 furlongs handicap at 18.20.