Baltromei tries again at Cagnes-sur-mer

With 2 winners earlier in the week, things are now looking up for Werner Baltromei´s Cagnes-sur-mer campaign and he saddles 4 more runners today (two under the Sid-Ali Ghoumrassi name). In the best event on the card, a conditions race over 2000 metres at 14.50, Song of Tiger (Dominique Boeuf), who ran well a few days ago. has an obvious chance, although Aornos (David Smaga/ Frankie Leroy) looks hard to beat. Journey Time (Boeuf) runs in a 2000 metres handicap at 15.340, while Paarl (Boeuf) and Fancy Running (Koen Clijmans) are both engaged in the mile handicap at 17.00. As always, all races will be run on the fibregrass track. Please note that the 4th race for the French PMU is the "Met", a big handicap from South Africa.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Piste Perdue - Golden Runner - Antarige
2. Race: Roi Dana - Reve Bere - Rio Princess
3. Race: Bluefields - Aornos - Celtic Wolf
5. Race: Radieuse - Fantasy King - Distant Far
6. Race: Panichop - Violon Sacre - Psy Chic
7. Race: Rudolph - Keulinn - Antaxios
8. Race: Richhill Lady - N`Boy - Tsitsio
9. Race: Master of Art - River Rose Boy - Vocatine

Wetherby and Lingfield

Main feature of Wetherby´s N.H. card is the Grade Two novice chase over 3 miles 1 furlong at 16.25 CET. Only 5 runners but all of them are pretty smart and Will be Done (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) is expected to run here inm preference to Sandown. He has won his last 4 races and is a young chaser with a future, but Comoanero (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan) has won his last 5 and looks a big threat, while if the ground comnes up heavy, Skippers Brig (Len Lungo/ Keith Renwick), also a multiple winner but moving up in trip, could come out best. Limgfield´s all-weather fixture has as its highlights two class 2 handicaps, over 5 furlongs at 16.20 and over 1 1/2 miles at 16.55. The sprint race looks very tricky and sees a rematch between Doubtful Sound (Reg Hollinshead/ Jim Crowley), an easy winner over 6 furlongs last time, and Little Edward (Ron Hidges/ Marc Geramn), Matsunosuke (Barney Cooney/ Luke Morris) and Ebraam (ÜPaul Howing/ Tolley Dean), respectively 2nd,3rd and 7th in that event. A new opponent is David Elsworth´s Swiss Franc (Jamie Spencer), who has not run since twice finishing behind Duff in listed events before Christmas. If fully wound up, he can win today. In the staying race, lightly-raced Wine ´n Dine (Gary Moore/ Jimmy Quinn) can score off bottom wieght, but Grand Passion (Chris Wall/ George Baker), despite some disappointing performances, would be very dangerous if back to his old form.

Doncaster today

Doncaster also stages a good card today, and the handicap chase over 2 miles at 16.00 is the most valuable race of the day. This looks very difficult and Paul Nicholls sets a poser by saddling 3 runners - top-weight Andreas (Timmy Murpohy), I´msingingtheblues (Christian Williams) and Medicinal (Sam Thomas). All of them could get involved, but we have a slight preference for Doctor David (Caroline Bailey/ Andrew Thornton) and Three Mirrors (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee). There are two more brutally difficult handicaps on the card, a 2 1/2 mile hurdle at 15.30 and a 4 mile chase at 16.30. In the latter event Jass (Keith and James Reveley) once again meets Gypsy Gweorge (Tim and Robert Walford) and Malko de Beaumont (ADBrown/ Mark Bradburne), whom he defated ast time at Ayr, but at these weights there should now be little in it. Bellaney Jewel (John Quinn/ Dougie Costello) stays for ever and looks dangerous off his light weight. We also fancy the light weights in the earlier race, g iving a tentative vote to King Jack (Richard Phillips/ Sean Quinlan) and Percussionist (Howard Johnson/ JP O´Farrell). The novice hurdle at 14.55 should also be informative. Copper Bleu (Philip Hobbs/ Tom O´Brien), an impressive winner at Newbury, looks the best of the 3 penalised runners, but faces some interesting debutants, including David Pipe´s Master of Arts Tom Scudamore), winner of 6 successive races last summer for Sir Mark Prescott, and the ex-André Fabre Marc Aurele, part-owned by football manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Chapoturgeon - Heathcote - The Duke`S Speech
2. Race: Copper Bleu - Marc Aurele - Fassaroe
3. Race: Mirage Dore - Charlie Crab - King Jack
4. Race: I`Msingingtheblues - Doctor David - Medicinal
5. Race: Jass - Gypsy George - Malko De Beaumont
6. Race: Thetwincamdrift - Picture This - Sphinx

Excellent card at Sandown

An excellent card at Sandown today, despite generally small fields. The exception is the handicap hurdle over 2 3/4 miles at 16.10 CET, which has 15 runners and looks wide open. Ballydub (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) is one of the favourites after falling when well in contention last time out at Cheltenham, where Blue Shark (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) was also close up at the time. Group Captain (High Collingridge/ Richard Killoran) was runner-up at Ascot last time and deserves to win one of these big handicaps, but basically almost any of them can win. The card opens with a 4yo novice hurdle at 14.30, in which we hope German-bred Amore Mio (Emma Lavelle/ Tom Siddall) can get the better of Nicky Henderson´s impressive last-time-out winner Optimus Maximus (Barry Geraghty).

The following two races are the best events on the card, and the listed hurdle race at 15.05 will have a definite bearing on the Champion Hurdle with Afsoun (Henderson/ Geraghty) and Osana (David Pipe/ Paddy Brennan) -both already placed at Cheltenham- opposed by Celestial Halo (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), currently second favourite for this year´s edition. The race should be run to suit Celestial Halo and he is narrowly our selection. The Scilly Isles Novice Chase (Grade One) over 2 1/2 miles at 15.35 has a small but select field; Araldur (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) is tremendously improved and has won 4 of his last 5 races, he also receives weight all round as the only 5yo. But Here Comes the Truth (Nicholls/ Walsh) and Massinis Maguire (Hobbs/ Johnson) are very toiugh opponents. Tony McCoy, still needing 2 winners to reach a career total of 3,000, only rides in the last 2 races; his mounts Eric´s Charm for Oliver Sherwood in the 3 mile handicap chase at 16.45 and last-tim e-out winner Good Company for Jonjo O´Neill at 17.20 both have chances - especially the latter - but it still seems likely that he will have to wait for another day.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Optimus Maximus - Amore Mio - Purely By Chance
2. Race: Celestial Halo - Afsoun - Osana
3. Race: Herecomesthetruth - Will Be Done - Massini`S Maguire
4. Race: Blue Shark - Ballydub - Cruchain
5. Race: Can`T Buy Time - Sound Accord - Monkerhostin
6. Race: Lorient Express - Good Company - I Hear A Symphony

Fairyhouse abandoned

Today´s Irish fixture at Fairyhouse has been abandoned following heavy rain, and there are doubts about tomorrow´s meeting at Punchestown. While today´s meetings in Britain, where cold but sunny conditions are reported, are not expected to have any problems, there could well be doubts about the next few days´ fixtures, as bad weather is forecast from tomorrow on - freezing temperatures and snow or sleet.

France today

All the French action today is in the south of the country, with Pau in the south-west staging one of its biggest meetings, and also trotting from Cagnes-sur-mer on the Riviera. Easily the best race is the Grande Course de Haies de Pau over 4100 metres at 16.20, in which Guy Cherel´s Tell No One (Cyrille Gombeau) seems certain to start a warm favourite after winning his last 3 races and already defeating several of today´s opponents. German-bred Licato, trained by Robert Collet, could run into a place at a big price.

Betting forecast at Pau:
1. Race: Quessel D`Airy - Objectif Special - Neriolo
2. Race: Ainara - Guantamera - Zeppa
3. Race: Ni Plus Ni Moins - Levison De Kerser - Oke Prince
4. Race: Al Co - Vinseremo - Rolino D`Airy
5. Race: Piasca - Tessalha - Winima
6. Race: Tell No One - Chope Royale - Mercelin
7. Race: Ashdoun - Lester Quercus - Ras Tafarii
8. Race: Cuban - Mokoro - Panache Blanc

All-weather action at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

Both all-weather meetings today, at Lingfield this afternoon and Wolverhampton this evening, have very moderate cards, and at Lingfield the two divisions of the amateur riders handicap over 1 1/2 miles that begin the day are probably the two best betting races. Trainer Gary Moore was in Dubai yesterday to cheer on on his son Ryan, who rode 2 winners, and his elder son Jamie is now well established in the top flight of N.H. jockeys. Two more children ride in the second division at 14.10 with daughter Hayley on the well-bred but frustrating Drum Major and son Joshua on Turners Touch. Possible favourite here is Steve Parr´s Augustus John, whose pilot Simon Walker is the most experienced rider in the race, but this one, although consistently placed, also consistently gets beaten. Trainer Julia Feilden has some good chances at the meeting, best of which could be top-weight Bavarica (Amy Baker) in the mile handicap at 15.10. Jamie Spencer looks the man to follow at Wolverhampton´s floodlit meeting. He can go close on Harry Up in the 5 furlongs claimer at 19.50 and Northern Empire in the 6 furlongs handicap an hour later, both for Kevin Ryan, and also has chances with top-weight Ardent Prince in the 9 furlongs handicap at 21.50 for Alan McCabe. Confidentiality won 6 successive races (including 4 this CD) on the all-weather in the autumn of 2007 for trainer Michael Wigham, but lost form when transferred to a different trainer. Now back with Wigham, she sprang a 33-1 surprise when winning at Lingfield recently. She won´t be anywhere near that price this evening, but can score again under top-weight at 22.20 with Steve Drowne in the saddle.

Catterick this afternoon

With Chepstow off, Catterick has the stage to itself as far as today´s jumps racing is concerned. The class 3 handicap chase over 2 miles 3 furlongs at 15.00 CET loooks the most interesting event, as 6 of the 11 runners are last-time-out winners. Ceoperk (Tony Carroll/ Jason Maguire) was the easiest of them, winning almost in a canter at Hereford, but that was a maiden race and a handicap can be a very different kettle of fish. She can win again, but meets some serious opposition now, including More Like It (Peter Niven/ Brian Hughes) and Royal Hilarity (Peter Bowen/ Seamus Durack). The class 3 handicap hurdle over 3 miles 1 1/2 furlongs at 15.35 looks more straightforward, as Minella Boys (Tim Walford/ Dougie Costello) won with such ease at Sedgefield 10 days agao that a 7 lbs penalty can hardly stop him going n again. Another recent winner who can score again is Super Baby (James Ewart/ Harry Haynes), who won over this CD last week, and can follow up in the novice chase at 16.45. Sue Smith appears tohold a strong hand in the novice hurdle at 16.10 and her two runners Be Brief (Henry Oliver) and Stagecoach Pearl (Tjade Collier) could both finish in the frame.

Unsere Tipps für die Rennen:
1. Rennen: Hot Zone - Sun King - Etoile Russe
2. Rennen: La Fortalesa - River Ardeche - Elk Trail
3. Rennen: Ceoperk - More Like It - Royal Hilarity
4. Rennen: Minella Boys - Banoge - Whatdoidowiththat
5. Rennen: Be Brief - Stagecoach Pearl - Palm Reader
6. Rennen: Super Baby - Or D`Oudairies - Speed Up
7. Rennen: Saveiro - Cry Alot Boy - Gutter Lane

Chepstow abandoned

Heavy overnight rain has caused the abandonment of Chepstow today, a shame as there were some interesting races on the card, and especially frustrating for Tony McCoy, who had chances of reaching the amazing milestone of 3,000 N.H. winners in Britain and Ireland. He had 3 rides booked, and currently stands on 2,998 after winning on his only ride yesterday at Wincanton. There are reported to be no problems with tomorrow´s meetings, but another frosty spell is on the way, which could cause more abandonments next week.

German runners at Cagnes-sur-mer

As we predicted here yesterday, Werner Baltromei is back in form with two winners, both of them tipped in this column. He cannot repeat this feat today, when he only has one starter, Alpenadler (Dominique Boeuf) in the 1600 metres claimer for 4yo s at 15.35, running under the Ghoumrassi banner. There could however be two German winners, both trained by Pavel Vovcenko and ridden by Thierry Thulliez, who are responsible for Gainsbury, who has top/weight in the 2000 metres handicap at 16.05, and last week s easy winner Naranja, who attempts to follow up in the mile claiming race at 16.35. Both these should run well, but punters are advised that these are both really tough races, and our preference in the latter race is for Bernando (Bertrand de Balanda/ Boeuf). As usual, all 7 races today will be run on the fibregrass track.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Cirrus des Aigles - Noor`s Goldway - Tanaos
2. Race: Chakacha - Silky du Desert - Tamazirte
3. Race: Shanna Bere - Cotes D`Armor - Bainorama
4. Race: Lady In Green - Royal Protector - Family Story
5. Race: Sky Crusader - Sunny Rock - Montmarin
6. Race: Bernando - Naranja - Nid D`Abeilles
7. Race: Almaguer - Gogol - Low Budget

Dubai Racing Carnival

The Dubai Racing Carnival continues today with a strong card comprising 6 valuable handicaps (3 on dirt., 3 on turf) and a Group Three race over 1777 metres at 18.50 CET. There are 10 runners here and the situation is complicated by the fact that the top three trainers all have more than one runner. Going by jockeys bookings, it would seem that the stable selected are Silver Most (Kevin Shea) for Mike de Kock, Oracle West (Ryan Moore) for Herman Brown and Kirklees (Ted Durcan - Frankie is not riding today) for Saeed bin Suroor. Last week´s easy handicap winner Third Set (Mubarak bin Shayta/ Ahmed Ajtebi) could be a danger to all. The handicaps all look very difficult, especially as they have mainly maximum fields, but a note should be made of Banknote (Andrew Balding Franny Norton) in the final mile race at 19.20. The Queen s first runner in Dubai, and winner of the Badener Meile 2 years ago, he is reported to be in good form.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Fateh Field - Easy Target - Aamaaq
2. Race: Pointing North - Finicius - Brave Tin Soldier
3. Race: Sarissa - League Champion - Wingbeat
4. Race: Irish Mayhem - Dynamic Saint - Singing Poet
5. Race: Arqaam - Before You Go - Far From Old
6. Race: Kirklees - Traffic Guard - Familiar Territory
7. Race: Yasoodd - Perfect Season - Banknote

N.H. racing at Towcester, Wincanton and Thurles (Ireland)

The going will be very heavy at today´s 3 N.H. meetings, indeed both Towcester and Wincanton have had to survive an early morning inspection and the latter track is staging an all-hurdles card. Wincanton is Paul Nicholls´local track and he is always to be followed here. Today he can land a hat-trick with Smuglin in the novice hurdle at 15.10 CET, Pride of Dulcot in a better grade novice hurdle half an hour later, and Play on Words in the buimper that closes the card at 17.40, all partnered by Sam Thomas. In each case the danger comes from the Alan King/ Choc Thornton team. The 2 mile handicap hurdle at 16.10 looks wide open. Tony McCoy has his only ride of the day here on Jonjo O´Neill´s top-weight Stradbrook, while Darstardly Dick ( Vic Dartnall/ Christian Williams) is going for a hat-trick - but his stable is not in form. Black Jacari (King/ Choc) has been runner-up 4 times running and may have to settle for a place again. Our tentative suggestion is Tender Falcon (Ron Hid ges/ Timmy Murphy), who can reverse recent CD form with German-bred White on Black. Penalised Princeful (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) can complete a fruitful day for the jockey, although David Pipe´s Spirit of Man could be a big danger despite his long layoff. The programme at Towcester is less exciting, but Silk Affair (Mick Quinlan/ Tom O´Brien) looks a good thing to win the maiden hurdle at 16.30, and the jockey can follow up on Philip Hobbs´ Mark the Book , another one coming off a long break, in the beginners chase half an hour later. Easily thr best -and most valuable- race of the day is the Grade Two Kinloch Brae Chase over 2 1/2 miles at Thurles. Willie Mullins continues in irresistable form, and his Cork winner Scotsirish (Ruby Walsh) is the likely favourite, even though he meets Cailinn Ailinn (Charlie Byrnes/ Niall Madden) on 13 lbs worse terms now. One Cool Cookie (Charlie Swan/ Davy Russell) and Knight Legend (Jessica Harrington/ Andrew Leigh) are anther pair whio finished first ad second last time out, and there should be little in it today, but our selection is Glenfinn Captain (Tom Taaffe/ Barry Geraghty), who was well behind Exotic Dancer in the Lexus Case at Christmas, but meets nothing of that calibre here.

all-weather action at Southwell and Wolverhampton.

Today´s all-weather racing comes from Southwell in the afternoon and Wolverhampton this evening. The best race at Southwell is the 1 3/4 miles handicap at 16.20 CET, in which all 9 runners hae good recent form. Ibrox (AD Brown/ Jimmy Quinn) is moving up in grade after an easy maiden win here, but is certainly not out of it with bottom weight. 9yo My Friend Fritz (Paul Hiatt/ Luke Morris) is consistent and should be involved, while El Diego (Jeremy Gask/ Neil Callan) is going for a hat-trick. Likely favourite however is the enigmatic Dart (James Fanshawe/ Jamie Spencer), a beaten favourite - not for the first time!- this CD last time out. He has scored his only two victories with Spencer, who may be able to get the best out of him today and can follow up with course specialist Guto in the 5 furlongs handicap half an hour later.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Paint Splash - Solo Choice - My Best Man
2. Race: More Time Tim - Lady Longcroft - Orpenella
3. Race: Trans Sonic - My Mirasol - Opera Writer
4. Race: Dart - Take Me There - El Diego
5. Race: Punching - Now You See Me - Calmdownmate
6. Race: Head To Head - Vanatina - Nautical



At Wolverhampton, Ahlawy (Frank Sheridan/ Fernet Branca), who has won his last two races very easily, can complete a hat-trick in the 1 /2 mile handicap ar 20.50, even though he has never races over this trip before. If his stamina fails him, Mark Johnston´s consistent Scarab (Greg Fairley) is the obvious alternative. Another very consistent performer is Red Somerset, first or second his last 5 starts, and he can defy top weight in the 9 furlongs handicap at 21.20.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Nordic Light - Desert Light - Lady Hopeful
2. Race: Drifting Gold - Incomparable - Sarah`S Art
3. Race: Ahlawy - Scarab - Lapina
4. Race: Red Somerset - Gallantry - Silver Hotspur
5. Race: Common Diva - Hold The Bucks - Kiyari
6. Race: Riguez Dancer - Baan - Bridgewater Boys

all-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

Two very moderate all-weather meetings today help to plug the gap left by the abandonment of two N.H.meetings, but both look very tricky for punters. Andean Margin (Simon Callaghan/ Jamie Spencer) has been runner-up three times running, but can finally get his nose in front in the 3yo handicap at 15.05 CET at Lingfield. Best race here is the mile handicap at 15.40 and the big question is Sir Mark Prescott´s Touch of Freedom (Stephen Donohoe), who has top-weight but may well be different class to these opponents. However he has only run once since his 2yo days, and that was in Ireland, so there is virtually no form to go on. Hucking Hero (John Best/ Steve Drowne) and Napoletano (Simon Dow/ Nicky Mackay) are alternatives in an open race. The best long-shot on the card is veteran course specialist Siena Star in the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.50.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: One More Round - Don Pele - C`Mon You Irons
2.Race: Auld Arty - Flamsteed - Hatman Jack
3.Race: Sorrel Ridge - Dedante - Deckchair
4.Race: Andean Margin - Song Of Praise - Duke Of Normandy
5.Race: Torch Of Freedom - L`Hirondelle - Hucking Hero
6.Race: Wind Flow - Star Choice - Nora Chrissie
7.Race: Chalice Welcome - Middle Of Nowhere - Old Romney
8.Race: Bollywood Style - Wooden King - Nikki Bea



Best race at this evening´s Kempton meeting is the 3yo mile handicap ar 21.50. Although there are only 5 runners, it looks quite competitive, and we give slight preference to Mark Johnston´s Bushveld (Greg Fairley) over top-weight Sky Gate and easy last-time-out winner Royal Collection.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Chalentina - Nordic Light - Convince
2.Race: Street Power - Ten Pole Tudor - Duke Of Milan
3.Race: Sounds Of Jupiter - Leo The Lion - Oxus
4.Race: Imperium - White Moss - Eseej
5.Race: Bushveld - Mellow Mixture - Royal Collection
6.Race: Cheap Thrills - Head Down - Lucky Dan

Newcastle and Limerick

Following the abandonments in Exeter and Leicester, today´s N.H. action comes from Newcastle and Limerick in Ireland. The in-form team of trainer Howard Johnson and jockey Denis O´Regan look set for a successful day at Newcastle, and it is quite conceivable that they could have four winners. Drever Route and Whisky Magic in the two divisions of the 2 mile novice hurdle at 14.20 CET and 14.55 respectively, Player in the novice handicap chase at 15.30 and Door Boy in the 2 1/2 mile novice hurdle at 16.05 are all expected to start favourite and irt would be surprising if a couple of them do not win. Howard Johnson and O´Regan also team up with the unraced Arty Farmer in the bumper at 17.15, and this one could be anything.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Low Delta - Kinfayre Boy - Another Charmer
2.Race: Nelliedonethat - Mistral De La Cour - Dawn Ride
3.Race: Drever Route - Ockey De Neulliac - Mighty Moon
4.Race: Whisky Magic - Baltic Pathfinder - Mamba
5.Race: Player - Shelomoh - Toulouse Express
6.Race: Door Boy - What A Buzz - Witty Banter
7.Race: Trisons Star - Getinbybutonlyjust - Manoubi
8.Race: Alora Money - Arty Farmer - Quannapowitt



The hot trainer in Ireland at present is clearly Willie Mullins and he could take the two best races at Limerick today with Quiscover Fontaine (Emmet Mullins) at 15.25 and Tapian´s Way (David Casey) at 17.10.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Celtic Strand - Jafra - Ach Aye Surely
2.Race: Satwa King - Another Notice - Caltra Princess
3.Race: Quiscover Fontaine - Monty Blue - Porto Calero
4.Race: Sher Fountin - Kind Oscar - Galant Ferns
5.Race: Moving On - Merry Cowboy - Emona Lad
6.Race: Askthemaster - Taipan`S Way - Denny Mac
7.Race: Highglen - Mcalpine - Takeyourpick

Exeter and Leicester abandoned

More bad weather news - after heavy overnight rain, both of the British N.H. meetings today have been abandoned. The loss of Leicester is especially frustrating, not only because it was unexpected, but because it would have been the scene of Tony McCoy´s attempt to ride his 3,000 th winner over jumps. Obviously he will reach this target, we hope this week, but it is annoying just the same. We still have N.H. racing from Newcastle, as well as two all-weather meetings in the U.K. and also jumps racing from Ireland, where Limerick stage the rescheduled meeting from Sunday, in addition to French racing from Cagnes-sur-mer.

Baltromei tries again at Cagnes-sur-mer

Werner Baltromei is still waiting for his first winner at the Cagnes-sur-mer meeting, but his horses ran much better on Monday and it is quite possible that he will break his duck today, when he has 8 runners at the Riviera track, some of them running under the name of Sid-Ali Ghoumrassi. They are Time to Beat (Dominique Boeuf) in a 1300 metres conditions race at 14.20, Fire Dragon (Koen Clijmans) and Lord Sa,m (Boeuf) in a 2000 metres claimer at 14.50, Soterio (Boeuf) in the 3400 metres race at 15.50, Australian Airline (Clijmans) and Stillbai in another claimer at 16.20, and Samiro (Boeuf) and Star Warrior (Clijmans) in a 2400 metres handicap at 16.50. In our view the two with the best chances are Soterio and Samiro. As usual, all races will be run on the fibregrass track.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Wingstar - Naramix - Fast Anna
2.Race: Lisselan Gardens - Kerno - Magic Box
3.Race: Granthor - American Mail - Master Winter
4.Race: Johanan - Max In Love - Fantasy Lady
5.Race: Courageuse - Brazilian Star - Sweet Orientfawn
6.Race: Senteur Bleue - Tangeante - Della Wish
7.Race: The French - Kakofonic - Wisning du Frene

N.H. racing at Taunton and Folkestone

The two N.H. tracks staging racing this afternoon, Taunton and Folkestone, are not famous for top-class racing, but today´s cards have some interesting features, notably a strong attack on Taunton launched by Paul Nicholls´ powerful stable. Nicholls can take the opening novice hurdle at 14.30 CET with Qozak, narrowly beaten on his debut at Newbury, and a similar race over 3 miles at 15.30 with Inchidaly, who was turned over last time at odds-on but still looks a good thing again. Both these will be ridden by Ruby Walsh, who also partners Luxurix for the stable in the beginners chase at 15.00, who also has a winning chance.The bumper that closes the card at 17.00 also looks interesting, with runners from several top trainers such as Henderson, King and Hobbs.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Qozak - Nictory Vote - Acapulco Bay
2.Race: Tamadot - Special Envoy - Luxurix
3.Race: Inchidaly Rock - Jokers Legacy - One Cool Knight
4.Race: Silver Spinner - Bally Conn - Prince Of Persia
5.Race: Consigliere - The Randy Bishop - Katess
6.Race: Shalamiyr - Larks Lad - Aldertune



At Folkestone, Den of Iniquity (Carl Llewellyn/ Tom O´Brien), who last ran in the Cheltenham Chamption Bumper in 2007, can make a triumphant comeback in the novice hurdle at 14.50, and the same team can double up with The Old Pretender in the staying novice hurdle an hour later. The 2 mile handicap chase at 16.50 looks a very poor race, and course specialist Sole Agent (Gary and Jamie Moore) can repeat his 2008 win despite top weight. The oores can also win the handicap hurdle half an hour later with Celtic Spirit, who is quite useful on the flat and although his hurdles form is less impressive, should be good enough to take this off his current rating.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Zarrafakt - Den Of Iniquity - King Brex
2.Race: Plein Pouvoir - Padalko - Apatura Dik
3.Race: Alderluck - The Old Pretender - Majic Moments
4.Race: Apocalozzo - Hello My Lovely - Follow The Flow
5.Race: Great Tsar - Sula`S Legend - Sole Agent
6.Race: Celtic Spirit - Nur Tau - Carly Bay

Southwell today

Southwell is the only all-weather track in action today, but the card of 8 races (5 class 6, the rest class 5) is not inspiring with most of the runners fully exposed as moderate and inconsistent. If there is a good performer running here, it can only be in the 3yo maiden over a mile at 16.40 CET. On what has been seen in public, Hughie Morrison´s Assail (Travis Block), runner-up here on his only start last year, looks the logical choice, but the presence of some well-bred newcomers from top trainers such as Mark Johnston and Sir Mark Prescott could make things interesting. German-bred Safin (Roger Curtis/ Miss C. Boxall) ran a stinker last week, but his earlier form gives him a chance in the 1 3/4 miles handicap for amateur riders at 14.10. Previously he had won at 66-1, and another recent winner at the same price was Dark Tara (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan), who can show that this success was no fluke by following up in the fillies handicap at 16.10. Jordi Roper (Steve Parr/ Dale Gibson) has been kept very busy of late, and the 6 furlongs handicap at 15.10 will be his 9th start since mid-December. However he is in good form, especially at this track, and can score his second career success today - the first was also over this CD and with this jockey on board. Kevin Ryan and Jamie Spencer have an excellent strike rate when teaming up and can take the final mile handicap at 17.10 with hat-trick-seeking Mrs. Bun.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Sea Cliff - Amron Hill - Sabancaya
2.Race: Rivington Pike - Spume - Snowberry Hill
3.Race: St Savarin - Rawdon - Nawamees
4.Race: Jordi Roper - Angaric - Cape Of Storms
5.Race: Savile`S Delight - Lethal - Crocodile Bay
6.Race: Dark Tara - Silk Gallery - Milton Of Campsie
7.Race: Assail - Echo Dancer - Rockinit
8.Race: Mrs Bun - Redwater River - Follow The Flag

Baltromei tries again at Cagnes-sur-mer

Despite the weekend´s storms, racing at the Riviera meeting at Cagnes-sur-mer seems almost certain to go ahead and Werner Baltromei, out of luck at the meeting so far, tries again with 4 runners, all partnered by Dominique Boeuf. Titan War runs in the 2400 metres claimer at 14.05, where ex-German La Fee (JM Capite/ Gregoire Benoist) looks the main danger, Song of Toger in the main event, a conditions race over 2000 metres at 14,35, Balladur in another claimer for older horses at 15.35 (where ex-German Ozzia (Yanick Fertillet/ Jouan Rousset could be the biggest threat), and finally Delano in the 2400 metres handicap at 17.05. Delano has disappointed so often that it is difficult to be confident, but he is now on a very attractive mark. All racing at Cagnes this week will be on the fibregrass track, but it is hoped to have turf races again next week.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Kokawango - Polarix - Estoril City
2.Race: La Fee - Trendy Queen - Classic Beauty
3.Race: Menestrol - Voxna - Wait And See
4.Race: Briolo - Katanoum - Chevalier Pepin
5.Race: Moon Rock - Conto Astronomico - Nummenor
6.Race: Cartesio - Kaysadoun - Beleniene
7.Race: Asserdouna - My Secret Love - Searay
8.Race: Asserdoun - La Chartreuse - Mister Roque

Ludlow (N.H.) and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

today´s other 2 meetings are very low-key, indeed the 8 races at Wolverhampton are all class 5 or 6 and the winners´ purses for all 8 races together do not reach 20,000 euros. The 3yo handicap over 9 1/2 furlongs at 16.,40 seems the best race and Svindari (Kevin Ryan/ Jamie Spencer) looks the likely favourite after finishing second four times running; Nicky Nutcase (Jeff Pearce/ Jimmy Quinn) and Mullitovermaurice (James Given/ Hayöey Turner), also both runners-up last time, look the chief dangers. Strabinios King (Karl Burke/ Greg Fairley) could be the best bet on the card in the 7 furlongs handicap 17.40; he has only a 6 lbs penalty to carry for an easy CD win a week ago. Two more likely winners - but at very short odds- are Gone Hunting (Bill Turner/Jack Dean) at 15.30 and Tartan Gunna (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) at 18.10.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Under Warranty - Fantasy Fighter - Kingsmaite
2.Race: Gone Hunting - Ridgeway Silver - Simple Rhythm
3.Race: Taboor - Smirfys Systems - Simpsons Gamble
4.Race: Svindal - Nicky Nutjob - Helpmeronda
5.Race: La Diosa - Precocious Air - King`S Chorister
6.Race: Strabinios King - Triple Axel - Kensington
7.Race: Tartan Gunna - Divine Force - Michael Collins
8.Race: Little Carmela - Bluebell Ridge - Eureka Moment



At Ludlow there are some large fields and with the ground very soft there could be some upsets. However the beginners´ chase at 14.45 can be safely left to Idarah (Mick Quinlan/ Tom O´Brien) or Soixante (Henrietta Knight/ Sam Thomas). Quite a few ex-German horses running, including the Irish-trained Miami Moon (Tony Martin/ Ken Whelan), who has a very attractive weight in the handicap hurdle at 17.00, where his opponents include Fredo (Ian Williams/ Tom Scudamore) and Nordwind (Evan Williams/ Donal Fahy), while Pretty Star (Venetia Williams/ Walter Biddick) has good each-way prospects in the amateur riders´ handicap chase at 15.55.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Bruslini - Moment Present - Tayarat
2.Race: Idarah - Soixante - Iffy
3.Race: Moonlight Music - She`S No Muppet - Shiny Thing
4.Race: Flight Command - Chickapeakray - Will The Till
5.Race: Tragic Realm - Friendly King - Hunters Ploy
6.Race: Good Spirit - Nordwind - Nortonthorpe Lad
7.Race: Persian Gates - Squinch - Gibraltar Star

Jumps racing at Kempton today

Kempton, better known these days as an all-weather track, stages one of its rare jumps meetings today and the card is certainly much better than is usual on a Monday. Most interesting event is the 3 mile novice chase at 15.05 CET, and Vic Dartnall´s Lodge Lane (Christian Williams), who has Cheltenham ambitions, is the star entry here.

The stable was way out of form last autumn and this will be their first runner for 5 weeks, but he should still be good enough to win his 7th race from 9 career starts. Nicky Henderson´s Au Courant (TonyMcCoy) is the real unknown quantity here, having won all 3 starts with long intervals in between. He could be anything, but will need to be smart to beat Lodge Lane. Henderson is also strongly represented in most of the other races, and three times he is likely to go head-to-head against his big rival Paul Nicholls: in both divisions of the novice hurdle at 14.00 and 14.30 with Rivership Theatre and Al Amaan, and then Ainama and Hebridean respectively, ad again in the concluding bumper at 17.30 with General Miller (Barry Geraghty) and Russian Regent (Marcus Foley) - both Henderson, and Nicholls´ highly-rated newcomer Phidippides, who like all the stable´s runners will be partnered by Ruby Walsh. Tony McCoy has several good mounts, but is unlikely to ride 5 winners today, which he needs to reach the amazing total of 3,000 Brtitish winners - an extraordinary feat which he seems almost certain to complete before the end of the week.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Al Amaan - Riverside Theatre - Hector`S Choice
2.Race: Hebridean - Ainama - Pale Rider
3.Race: Lodge Lane - Itsa Legend - Au Courant
4.Race: Delena - Wychwoods Legend - Federstar
5.Race: Fix The Rib - Picot De Say - Pepsyrock
6.Race: Pop Ahead - Nemetan - Just Jaffa
7.Race: Phidippides - General Miller - King Of Leon

Prix d´Amerique at Vincennes

the Prix d´Amerique at Vincennes at 15.40 this afternoon is the most important trotting race of the year, and this year´s edition seems wide open with 18 horses running for the prize-money of one million euros and no clear favourite. We are no experts on trotting, but our colleague suggests Offshore Dream as the likeliest winner; he has won the last two runnings, but his recent performances are less inspiring.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Oyonnax - Nevaio Des Bordes - Norma De La Frette
2.Race: Quid de Chahains - Quatuor Alto - Quisling d`Anjou
3.Race: Quille Castelets - Quilea Jiel - Qasida Jet
4.Race: Offshore Dream - Exploit Caf - Olga du Biwetz
5.Race: Copper Beech - Unico Limburgia - O`Donnell
6.Race: Ready Cash - Ravanella - Roc Meslois
7.Race: Jodas Julia - Oceane Drive - Orleans Spring
8.Race: Juggle Face - Ocarina F H - Mistral Bi
9.Race: Royale Du Chene - Revanche d`Atout - Royale Princesse

Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown

easily the best racing in Britain and Ireland today takes place at Leopardstown, where the Irish Champion Hurdle (2 miles, Grade One, 15.50 CET) tops the bill. It has attracted a really strong field, including two past Cheltenham winners, Sublimity (Robert Hennessy/ Philip Carberry) and Hardy Eustace (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood), both of whom would have preferred better going than they are likely to find here. Although Sublimity seems the logical choice, following his victory here at Christmas, all the money has come for oldtimer Brave Inca (Colm Murphy/ Ruby Walsh) and Muirhead (Noel Meade/ Barry Geraghty) - both of whom finished behind Sublimity last time -and the result could well produce some changes in the betting for Cheltenham. The other Grade One on the card is a novice chase over 2miles 1furlong at 14.50, where Willie Mullins with two of the five entries has a strong hand. Jayo (Ruby Walsh) is clearly his main prospect and has Forpadydeplasterer (Tom Cooper/ Barry Ge raghty) to beat. The Grade Two novice hurdle at 16.25 should concern mainly Western Charmer (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood) and Corskeagh Royale (Noel Meade/ Niall Madden).

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Alexander Severus - One To Many - Time Electric
2.Race: Jayo - Forpadydeplasterer - Follow The Plan
3.Race: Fantoche - The Penitent Man - Central House
4.Race: Brave Inca - Sublimity - Muirhead
5.Race: Western Charmer - Corskeagh Royale - Weapon`S Amnesty
6.Race: Hangover - Ross Accord - Rockers Field
7.Race: Mostly Bob - Chargen - Mr Nice

Ayr (N.H.) and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

the idea of staging an additional fixture at Ayr today - the second this year - has paid off handsomely, as the Scottish track stages the only jumps racing in Britain and has an attractive card, although the heavy going could be a problem. There are only 5 runners in the novice chase over 3 miles 1 furlong at 15.05 CET, but this is still a decent event and we expect Chief Dan George (Jimmy Moffatt/ Richard McGrath) and Bold Ransom (Keith and James Reveley) to be involved; the pair finished second and third to the useful Skipper´s Brig last time, and now face new opposition from top-weight Killyglen (Howard Johnson/ Denis O`Regan), whose team should go on to take the following race, a 2 mile novice hurdle, with Teenage Idol, who was most impressive last time. The penalised Comhla ri Coig (Donald McCain/ AP Lane) and Brackenmoss (the Reveleys again) could also be thereabouts. German-bred Quicuyo (Peter Monteith/ Keith Renwick) has an obvious chance in the 2 mile novice chase; a lthough a brother to fast-ground performer Quijano, he acts well on the heavy and also goes well at this track. Role On and Cromwell Court are the two he has to beat. His trainer can also take the 3 mile 1 furlong handicap chase at 16.35 with another son of Acatenango, top-weight First Look with the good claimer Rhys Flint in thre saddle. At Wolverhampton, the field of 7 for the 6 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 16.25 includes four last-tome-out winners, two of whom Stash (Reg Hollinshead/ Graham Gibbons) and Changing the Guard (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) are still unbeaten after winning their only start. However they were both maiden races, and possibly the proven handicap form of Five Star Junior (Lydia Stubbs/ Shane Kelly) and Takeover Bid (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley) may prove decisive. The class 2 conditions race over 7 furlongs at 18.00 has a rather disappointing turnout, and Aeroplane (Simon Callaghan/ Jamie Spencer) has 11 lbs in hand according to official ratings. In theory he should win from Councellor (Stef Liffiard/ Micky Fenton) and Orchard Supreme (Richard Hannon/ Dane O´Neill), but an upset here would be no huge surprise.

Betting forecast Ayr:
1.Race: Lago - Sammy Spiderman - Julius Caesar
2.Race: Chief Dan George - Killyglen - Nine De Sivola
3.Race: Teenage Idol - Comhla Ri Coig - Brackenmoss
4.Race: Role On - Cromwell Court - Quicuyo
5.Race: Royal Mackintosh - Silver By Nature - First Look
6.Race: Soul Angel - Kirkside Pleasure - Seeking Straight



Betting forecast Wolverhampton:
1.Race: Piazza San Pietro - Circle Dance - Thoosa
2.Race: Fantastic Fred - Autumn Morning - Captain Walcot
3.Race: Takeover Bid - Changing The Guard - Five Star Junior
4.Race: Marmooq - Boss Hog - Inside Story
5.Race: Snowy Indian - Lady Aspen - Amber Moon
6.Race: Aeroplane - Docofthebay - Councellor

Hexham and Limerick abandoned

the bad weather news continues in Britain and Ireland and today´s fixtures at Hexham and Limerick have been abandoned. The outlook for the next few days is also worrying, with several tracks waterlogged after the very heavy rainfall this month.

Trials at Cheltenham

today´s Cheltenham meeting is traditionally regarded as a dress rehearsal for the big March meeting here, although this may not be so relevant today in view of the ground conditions, much heavier than are usually encountered at the festival. However this is still an exceptionally interesting card, starting off with the novice hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 13.55 featuring the top prospect Diamond Harry (Nick Williams/ Timmy Murphy), who is expected to keep his unbeaten record at the main expense of Bensalem (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) - also unbeaten- and Tataniano (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh). The grade 3 handicap chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 15.05 looks wide open, but two German-breds could play a role here - Moon over Miami (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily), who runs his best races here, and oldtimer Foreman (Robbie McLernan), having his first race for trainer Jonjo O´Neill and making his first racecourse appearance for 8 months. Stan (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) won well t his CD at New Year but has been hammered by the handicapper, and our main fancy here is Akilak (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan), back to form at Newcastle before Christmas and whose stable is currently in tremendous form. Johnson and O´Regan are probably more interested in how their stable star Tidal Bay fares in the Grade 2 Christopher and Letherby Chase over 3 miles 1 furlong half an hour later, but our personal view is that he will not get the trip on this ground. The weights here favour Halcon Genelardais (King/ "Choc") and Star de Mohaison (Nicholls/ Barry Geraghty), but it is interesting that Ruby Walsh, who presuambly had the choice, prefers Nicholls´other runner Nozic. Roll Along (Carl Llewellyn) also has chances, but this race is unlikely to have much bearing on the Gold Cup. However the Cleeve Hurdle over 3 miles at 16.45 is certain to influence betting for the World Hurdle, as the field of 8 includes the hot favourite for that event, Nicky Henderson`s Punchestowns (Barry Geraghty). He was most impressive the last two times, including here, but the heavy ground may not be in his favour, and Big Bucks (Nicholls/ Walsh) and German-bred CD specialist Fair Along (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) will certainly test him severely. Walkon (King/ "Choc") won in good style last time and looks the likely winner of the 4yo hurdle at 16.10, a race dominated by the stable in recent years.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Diamond Harry - Tataniano - Bensalem
2.Race: Ping Pong Sivola - Tricky Trickster - Hennessy
3.Race: Stan - Battlecry - Akilak
4.Race: Halcon Genelardais - Star De Mohaison - Nozic
5.Race: Walkon - Reve De Sivola - Higgy`S Boy
6.Race: Punchestowns - Big Buck`S - Blazing Bailey
7.Race: Culcabock - Spear Thistle - Hernando Royal

Good racing also at Doncaster

Doncaster also offers a strong N.H. card today. although it appears that there will many non-runners because of the ground, much softer than officially forecast, which will weaken some of the top races. It is significant that some of the top jockeys ride here instead of Cheltenham, notably Tony McCoy, who could well have a successful afternoon (although his mount Fier Normand in the big betting race, the Great Yorkshire Chase over 3 miles at 16.25, appears to be one of several doubtful runners in this event). McCoy should certainly take the Grade Two mares hurdle at 14.05 CET on Nicky Henderson´s Chomba Womba, who won this last year and now has Irish raider Zarinova (Jessica Harrington/ Robbie Power) to beat. The Grade Two Albert Bartlett Hurdle for novices over 3 miles at 15.50 has a strong field, and On Raglan Road (Howard Johnson/ McCoy), Gullible Gordon (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) and Junipr (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson) look the main contenders. With so many possible no n-runners, the Great Yorkshire Chase is difficult to forecast, but According to Pete (Malcolm Jefferson/ Phil Kinsella) is the likely favourite; he is unbeaten over fences, but has been highly-rated by the handicapper. At these weights we prefer Ungaro (Keith and James Reveley) and Big Fella Thanks (Nicholls/ Christian Williams), but Verasi (Gary Moore/ Philip Hide) is highly interesting as a specialist for heavy going, even though he has pulled up on all recent starts. In the likely absense of the forecast favourites, the finish of the novice chase at 13.35 should be fought out by Palomar (Nicky Richards/ Day Condon) and German-bred Lightning Strike (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas), both easy last-time-out winners.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Lightning Strike - Palomar - Psychomodo
2.Race: Chomba Womba - Amber Brook - Zarinava
3.Race: Charmaine Wood - Character Building - Serhaaphim
4.Race: Our Jasper - Corlande - Nacarat
5.Race: On Raglan Road - Junior - Gullible Gordon
6.Race: According To Pete - Alexanderthegreat - Big Fella Thanks
7.Race: Artist`S Moon - Good Faloue - Baligha

Doncaster and Fairyhouse (Ireland)

Fairyhouse´s fixture, already cancelled twice because of a waterlogged track, has finally been given the green light to go ahead and their top race, the Grade Two Normans Grove Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 15.05 CET, has a small but select field. Watson Lake (Noel Meade/ Barry Geraghty), Thyne Again (Liam Burke/ Shay Barry) and Mansony (Arthur Moore/ Davy Russell) are 3 of the best Irish chasers at this distance and last time finished second, third and fourth respectively behind Big Zeb (second favourite for the Champion Chase) in a Grade One at Leopardstown´s Christmas meeting. With Watson Lake now slighty better off at the weights, that form should be confirmed, while Ted Walsh´s Southern Vic, with son Ruby in the saddle, a possible alternative, although the trip seems on the short side.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Qualviro - Across The Bay - Colbert Station
2.Race: Clan Tara - The Midnight Club - Orpheus Valley
3.Race: Watson Lake - Thyne Again - Mansony
4.Race: Sizing America - Stewarts House - Colonel Arthur
5.Race: Flag Point - Culmullen Hall - So Billiant
6.Race: Farmer Grant - An Peinteir - What Odds
7.Race: Hammersmith - Supreme All Star - Moilleadoir



There are huge fields at Doncaster, with 6 of the 7 races having 16 or more runners, and winners could be hard to find. However it could pay off today to follow the German-breds who could run well at big prices, such as Early Wings (Caroline Bailey/ David England) in the opening conditional jockeys handicap hurdle at 13.50, or Lucy Wadham´s pair El Dancer and Super Directa (both wth Dominc Elsworth in the saddle) in the two divisions of the novice hurdle at 14.20 and 14.55. Best race on the card is the 4yo hurdle at 16.05; Silk Drum (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan) is the class act here, but may struggle to give 10 lbs to Motarid (Tim and Robert Walford), who was just touched off over this CD before Christmas.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Well Disguised - Max Bygraves - Cordier
2.Race: Quwetwo - Surprise Pension - Moonwalking
3.Race: Fushe Jo - Limbo King - Alderley Rover
4.Race: Just Smudge - Huckleberry - Fighting Chance
5.Race: Silk Drum - Motarid - Ovthenight
6.Race: Rathmulen - Watch My Back - Berings Express
7.Race: Western Whisky - Edgbriar - Empty Sky

All-weather action at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

All-weather racing this afternoon at Lingfield and this evening at Wolverhampton, with easily the best race the very last event - at 22.20 CET at Wolverhampton, a class 2 conditions race over 9 furlongs with 20,000 GBP in prize-money. Docofthebay (Jamie Osborne/ Shane Kelly) is the obvious choice here, even though this top handicapper has not run since finishing 26th (!) in the Cambridgeshire. On ratings, he has little in hand of Fajr (Gay Kelleway/ Jimmy Quinn), but this one has been out of form lately. Clive Brittain´s Mahadee has a good all-weather record and could be a danger, but it is not clear if Jamie Spencer will be able to ride; he apparently pulled a muscle yesterday when riding Safin (which partly explains that one´s poor performance). The 7 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 21.20 should concern mainly William Haggas´ last-time-out winner Dream Date, with the promising Brazilian apprentice Gilmar Pereira aboard, and the very consistent Hellbemnder (Silvester Kirk/ R ichard Kingscote), who has not ben out of the first two in his last 5 starts.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Forever`S Girl - Rocket Ruby - Kheley
2.Race: United Nations - Teasing - Dancing Deano
3.Race: Chalice Welcome - Desert Hawk - Ridgeway Jazz
4.Race: Dream Date - Hellbender - Trueblue Wizard
5.Race: Ardent Prince - Nabeeda - Guildenstern
6.Race: Docofthebay - Abbondanza - Mahadee



At Lingfield, the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.50 is the hottest race. Nickel Silver (Bryan Smart/ Tom Eaves) has alreay won 3 races - two of them this CD - this month, while Thoughts of Stardom (Phil McEntee/ Luke Morris) won 3 of his las4 4 races, all this CD and all before Christmas. Chjimes (Charles Dore/ Liam Keniry) and Cosmic Destiny (Eddie Vaughan/ Chris Catlin) also look dangerous, though bith are coming off a break of about 8 weeks. On the other hand, the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.25 has a large field but very few runners in good recent form. Perhaps the 9yo German-bred Polish Power (Stan Moore/ Liam Keniry), off since October and very inconsistent last year, can bounce back to his best after his layoff and back on his favourite track.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Excusez Moi - Mutamared - Desert Dreamer
2.Race: Imperial Skylight - Trusted Venture - Flawless Diamond
3.Race: Just The Lady - Quick Single - Red Cell
4.Race: Whiskey Creek - Admiral Bond - Joss Stick
5.Race: Nickel Silver - Thoughtsofstardom - Fromsong
6.Race: Stand Guard - Dream Of Fortune - Phoenix Flight
7.Race: Lacrosse - Haljaferia - Green Passion

Newbury off today

the weather continues to play havoc with British and Irish fixtures and Newbury´s N.H. fixture today is off. However the good news is that Fairyhouse goes ahead after an early morning inspection - this fixure has already been rescheduled twice in the past week. Tomorrow´s Uttoxeter meeting looks doubtful ad is subject to an insection, while both Navan on Saturday amd Hexham on Sunday will stage all-hurdles cards as their chase courses are unraceable. However prospects look better for tomorrow´s big Cheltenham card and also for Sunday´s Irish Champion Hurdle meeting at Leopardstown. Ayr, where there also reported to be no problems, will stage another additional meeting on Sunday. The going looks certain to be very soft everywhere.

Nad al Sheba and Cagnes-sur-mer

There are maximum fields in most races today at Cagnes-sur-mer and Nad al Sheba, but there the similarity ends, as the racing on the Riviera today is mainly at a low level, whereas the Dubai track offers 9 races with excellent prize-money and some very competitive races.

From the German point of view, the most interesting runner is Andreas Wöhler´s Santiago Atitlan (Mick Kinane), who runs in the first division of the 6 1/2 furlongs handicap that opens the card at 15.55 CET. He was third in a similar event here a year ago and has place chances again; there is no betting in Dubai, but British bookmakers make him a 12-1 chance, while Frankie Dettori´s mount Hatta Fort is favourite at 3-1. Main event is the Group Three Al Shindagha Sprint over 6 furlongs at 19.25, where the US-trained Big City Man is favourite; he has won his last 4 races, including this CD on his debut here a fortnight ago. Dianas Choice (Mike de Kock/ Kevin Shea) and Strike up the Band (David and Adrian Nicholls) look the main dangers. Most interesting runner on the card is Duty Free winner Jay Peg (Herman Brown/ Ryan Moore) who has top-weight in the 7 1/2 furlongs handicap at 17.25. In theory he should win this, but the trainer - who has won the last 2 runnings- has warned he may need the race after an 8 months layoff.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Hatta Fort - Grantley Adams - Santiago Atitlan
2.Race: Fullback - Desert Party - Indiscutible
3.Race: Asset - Drift Ice - Leandros
4.Race: Jay Peg - Calming Influence - Tasdeer
5.Race: Without A Prayer - Glen Nevis - Fares
6.Race: Sanbuch - Love Galore - Leitmotiv
7.Race: Presvis - Drill Sergeant - Varsity
8.Race: Big City Man - Force Freeze - Star Crowned
9.Race: Alexandros - Ragheed - Prince Shaun



At Cagnes, where all races today and also for the next few meetings will be run on the fibregrass track, as the turf track is currently in poor condition, there are two more German runners, both trained by Werner Baltromei but running under the name of Sid-Ali Ghoumrassi: Amuse Gueule in the race for 3yo colts at 14.35 and White Bull in a handicap at 15.35; both races are run over 2000 metres and Dominique Boeuf partners both horses.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Rockawango - Grand Slammer - Mr.Sir
2.Race: Quetsche - Salsarides - Lesi
3.Race: Cirrus des Aigles - Port Manech - Quattroporte
4.Race: Pirina - Passion Profonde - Manuelita
5.Race: Almaguer - Rudolph - Katly
6.Race: Bisestile - Torronto - Hatama
7.Race: Cournot - Lucky Number - Thiangova
8.Race: Round Stone - Play It Again - Dinorah

Warwick and Gowran Park

The ability to act on heavy ground will be the most important factor today. and the afternoon´s big race, the valuable Thyestes Chase, a 3 miles handicap at 15.35 CET at Gowran Park, will be a gruelling slog under the likely conditions. With a maximum field this looks fiercely competitive.

Tony McCoy flies over from England to partner JP McManus` Arbor Supreme for Willie Mullins, who has a good record in this race and also saddles Homer Wells(David Casey) and Emma Jane (Ruby Walsh). While McCoy and Walsh will undoubtedly be popular, perhaps oldtimer Homer Wells is the value at the likely odds. He is one of three previous winners in the field. Others to consider are the lone British challenger Eric´s Charm (Oliver Sherwood/ Mark Bolger) and Newbay Prop (Tony Martin/ Davy Russell), the ante-post favourite. There could well be some jockey changes at Warwick, as several jockeys could be re-routed from the abandoned Fontwell meeting, such as Richard Johnson or Sam Thomas. The best race, the novice chase at 15.40, has only 5 runners, and should concern chiefly Ring the Boss (Philip Hobbs/ Tom O´Brien?) and Oh Crick (Alan King/ Robert Thornton).

Thornton also partners Topless in the 3 1/4 mile handicap chase at 14.40; Neil Mulholland´s mare was possibly the unluckiest loser of the season when she jinked close home and unseated her jockey a week ago.The handicap hurdle at 16.10 looks quite open. Lady Herries´ consistent Honour High (Andrew Thornton) never runs a bad race but faces a stiff stiff task under top weight. Fair Question (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) and hat-trick chasing Heathcliff (Richard Lee/ Oliver Greenall) look more likely. Oscar Jack (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) appeals as the best bet of the day i the handicap chase a 16.40 following his very easy win at Taunton last week.

Fontwell abandoned

The bad weather news continues, and after heavy overnight rain, today´s N.H. fixture at Fontwell has been abandoned. However both Warwick and Gowran Park (Ireland) have passed an early morning inspection, so that racing goes ahead at both tracks, although the going will be extremely heavy.

Inspection at Huntingdon but Musselburgh on

After early morning inspections, Musselburgh´s N.H. meeting today has been given the green light but the situation is less clear at Huntingdon, where there will be another inspection later on. Later: Huntingdon has been abandoned, which is certainly a shame, as the racing here would have been of much better standard than at the Scottish track, and also would have seen some interesting ex-German recruits, such as Persian Storm and El Dancer, who were both due to make their hurdling debuts. At Musselburgh, Casual Affair (Sue and Mark Bradburne) looks the day´s best bet in the second division of the novice hurdle at 15.30; a winner twice on the flat last year, he made a good debut over this CD recently. The first division can go to Jimmy Moffatt´s penalised Sea Storm (Paddy Aspell) and the trainer, Darren´s brother, also has good chances of taking the mares´ novice hurdle at 14.30 with King´s Maiden (Michael O´Connell).

all-weather action at Kempton and Wolverhampton

All-weather racing this afternoon at Wolverhampton and Kempton this evening, with quite a few of the jockeys and trainers in action at both meetings. At Wolverhampton, the 1 1/2 mile race for 4-6yo maidens at 17.50 CET is a desperate affair, but it could be significant that Irish trainer Philip Rothwell sends over two runners here, Castaneous (Dane O´Neill) and Listen Carefully (Adam Kirby), with the former the clear form choice. The best race here is the 7 furlongs handicap at 18.20, in which David Simcock´s Milne Bay (Jimmy Quinn) can complete a quick four-timer; he made all to win easily at Great Leighs last time from Sendreni and should confirm that form today under a penalty. Simcock can also be on the mark at Kempton´s floodlit meeting, where Harald Bluetooth (Jamie Spencer) can defy top-weight in the main event, a mile handicap at 21.20. Paul Howling´s pair Resplendent Nova (Jimmy Quinn) and Gallantry (Tolley Dean) look the main dangers. The two-mile handicap at 21.50 looks very tricky, with all 8 runners having a chance and several of them meeting regularly with varying results. However the improving Zuwaar (Ian Williams/ Stephen Donohoe) is on a roll and, although moving up in grade, is another one who can complete a four-timer.

Jamie Spencer at Southwell today

Today´s modest all-weather meeting at Southwell is brightened by the presence of top jockey Jamie Spencer, who has a full book of 7 rides and looks unlikely to travel home empty-handed. His best chance of success is probably Eddie Vaughan´s Dance and Dance in the 6 furlongs maiden race at 16.30 CET after his good run last time. Although it is usually risky backing 3yo´s against their elders at this time of year, the older horses in the field do not seem to have much ability. Spencer also partners the likely favourite, Kevin Ryan´s Majuro, in the day´s best race, a 7 furlongs handicap at 15.30, but although there are only 7 runners, this is quite a tricky event. Mozayada (Mel Brittain/ Jimmy Quinn) will be popular, having won 5 of his last 6 starts, all here, but he was partnered to all those successes by Franny Norton, who now rides Nightjar for in-form trainer Mark Johnston. Nightjar is unbeaten at this track and can possibly remain so. Spencer also has a chance in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 16.00 on Jane Chapple-Hyam´s Clear Reef, but the question mark in this race is the Schlenderhan-bred Sommersturm (Andrew Stringer/ Micky Fenton). Barney Curley´s German horses, all bought from the Ullmann family, have been running really badly, but sooner or later they will come into form, and despite top-weight Sommersturm is thrown in on his old German form.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Jordi Roper - Cabopino - Nabeeda
2.Race: Blue Charm - Hamaasy - Lethal
3.Race: Mambo Sun - West End Lad - Petroglyph
4.Race: Mozayada - Majuro - Internationaldebut
5.Race: Clear Reef - Il Grande Ardone - Persian Peril
6.Race: Dance And Dance - Angel Song - Lively Blade
7.Race: Cause For Applause - Kingaroo - Shifting Gold

Leicester off, Sedgefield inspection

Today´s N.H. meeting at Leicester has been abandoned as the track is waterlogged, while there is still an inspection to be held at Sedgefield. If racing goes ahead, the ground will be very testing. Also plans to hold Fairyhouse´s abandoned Sunday meeting today have had to be cancelled, it is now hoped to stage this fixture on Friday. The problem at the moment is heavy rain, and it seems certain that the going will be soft or heavy for all this week´s British and Irish fixtures, including Cheltenham´s big "trials" meeting on Saturday

Green light for Sedgefield

Sedgefield has passed an early morning inspection and racing goes ahead, but conditions will be very testing, and with the two best races both run over extreme distances, stamina and ability to act on the ground will be most important. The handicap hurdle over 3 1/2 miles at 15.50 is the best event, and we shall stick with the low weights, making Quay Meadow (John Norton/ Mark Bradburne), Zaffie Parson (Geoff Harker/ Richard McGrath) - who meets him on 6 lbs better terms for a 1 1/2 lengths defeat last time- and course specialist Shulmin (Mrs. C. Ferguson/ Harry Haynes) our short list of three. Harry Haynes also has prospects with the light-weight Overlady in the maiden chase over 3 miles 3 furlongs half an hour lady; the dangers are Bay Cherry (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan), who jumped badly last time but has the ability, and chasing debutant Cave Hill (Malcolm Jefferson/ Phil Kinsella), who both have to concede quite a bit of weight. The novice hurdle at 14.20 seems to li e between the penalised Letterpress (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan) and Fiendlish Flame (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire), while German-bred Moon Melody (Mike Sowersby/ Fearghal Davis) has an outside chance in the selling handicap hurde at 14.50

German runners at Cagnes-sur-mer

We are still waiting for the first German success at the Cagnes-sur-mer meeting, and three more German-trained runners try their luck today. Werner Baltromei has two runners, both with Dominique Boeuf aboard, Escargot in a race over 2150 metres for unraced 3yo´s at 14.50 and Alpe d´Huez in a 1500 metres handicap at 15.50. However in view of the poor form so far shown by the Baltromei runners, the best hope of a German winner is probably Pavel Vovcenko´s Naranja (Jerome Claudic), who runs in the 2100 metres claiming race for apprentices at 15.20. These three races will all be run on the turf track.

German runners at Cagnes-sur-mer

The Cagnes-sur-mer meeting continues today with several more German-trained runners, who will be hoping to improve on the miserable showing of their compatriots last week. Pavel Vovcenko runs three, including Gainsbury and Salon Turtle in the two divisions of the 1500 metres handicap at 13.50 and 16.50. Both will be ridden by Delphine Santiago and have chances in two very open races, but with 18 runners in each it will not be easy. Vovcenko´s third runner is Kasus in the 3100 metres handicap at 15.50, also with a field of 18. This tricky 11-year-old needs to be brought to challenge as late as possible, and possibly Dominique Boeuf, who rides this track better than anybody, is the right choice for jockey. Werner Baltromei´s Star Warrior (Koen Clijmans) also runs in this, and the Mülheim trainer also two runners under the Ghoumrassi banner - Lord Sam in the 3yo claimer at 14.20 and Alpenadler in another claimer at 16.20, both with Boeuf in the saddle. Best race on the card is the conditions event for 5yo´s and up over 2400 metres at 15.20. Libertador (Jean-Marie Capite/ Thierry Thulliez) and Cristobal (Jean-Claude Rouget/ Ioritz Mendizibal), both being aimed at the big races later in the meeting, stand out here and should have the finish to themselves.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Slickly Royal - De Zephyr - Royal Pennekamp
2.Race: Bonington - Diamantino - Cool King
3.Race: Wedge - Leap Ahead - Ixalos
4.Race: Libertador - Cristobal - Gogol
5.Race: Vitora - Cabari - Mymya
6.Race: Royal Protector - Unquenchable Fire - Lobau
7.Race: La Formia - Indian City - Nachos

Hereford (N.H.) and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

With Lingfield off, all we have left in the U.K. today are two relatively minor meetings at Hereford (N.H.) and Wolverhampton (a.w.). Best race at Hereford is the handicap hurdle over 3 1/4 miles at 15.50 CET and the star of the show here is clearly Little Shilling (Tim Vaughan/ Richard Killoran), who has won his last 6 races, all since mid-November and 5 of them with this jockey. It seems that he can act on any going and the further the distance, the better he runs. He has now been raised a total of 53 lbs (!) since his winning run began, but although today´s opposition is the strongest he has yet faced, he could stll defy the handicapper and score again. Main dangers would appear to be top-weight Officier de Reserve (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), Pennek (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), Kayf Aramis (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) and ex-German Snake Charmer (Milton Harris/ Dave Crose), who beat admittedly weak opponents by 27 lengths last time out and also seems well suited by a r eal stamina test.

Regardless of how Pennek fares here, his trainer and jockey could still land a double in the two novice hurdles, with Parlesotho at 14.50 and Crakboumwiz half an hour later. At Wolverhampton, the class 4 handicap over 7 furlongs at 17.00 is the main event and looks very open. Top-weight Carnivore (David Barron/ Tom Eaves) was a good CD winner when last seen 5 weeks ago, while ex-Italian Secret Dubai (Marco Botti/ John Egan) appears well weighted; Strabinious King (Michael Wigham/ Franny Norton), third at Lingfield last Friday,and bottom-weight Red Cape (Rebecca Carr/Andrew Elliott) also have chances. Singleb (Gay Kelleway/ Jamie Spencer) can win the seller over 9 furlongs at 15.30, even though in theory he cannot give the weight to the higher-rated Prince Noel (Noel Wilsn/ Lee Enstone), while we go along with golden oldie Will He Wish (Steve Gollings/ Pat Cosgrave), although it will not be easy for the 13-y-o under top weight in the 9 furlongs handicap at 18.00.

Lingfield abandoned

today´s N.H. card at Lingfield has been abandoned following heavy weekend rain. The prospects for tomorrow´s two British N.H. meetings at Leicester and Sedgefield are also looking doubtful unless the weather improves soon. One piece of positive news is that yesterday´s abandoned Irish meeting at Fairyhouse will now be staged tomorrow Tuesday (weather of course permitting)...

French racing today

The Paris trotting track at Vincennes stages one of its major meetings today, when a high-class card is topped by the Prix de Cornulier, Europe´s most valuable "monté" over 2700 metres at 14.50. This column is no expert on trotting, but we understand that last year´s winner Magnificent Rodney may well complete the double. There is also a good jumps card at Pau, featuring the Grand Prix de Pau, a steeplechase over 5300 metres at 16.40. Trainer Jacques Ortet launches a strong challenge for this race with 5 runners, best of which should be Quaska d´Airy (Christophe Pieux); Ramses Bleu (Guy Cherel/ Cyril Gombeau) looks the main danger.

Towcester (N.H.) and Kempton (a.w.)

Only the jumps meeting at Towcester and the all-weather fixture at Kempton have survived this weekend´ s storms and neither are likely to quicken the blood, especially after seeing Master Minded and co run yesterday. Towcester´s card begins with a novice hurdle over 3 miles at 14.40 CET, which is likely to be fought out between two experienced horses better known as staying chasers - Kilbeggan Blade (Tom George/ Tony McCoy) and Mon Mome (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman). The former has won his last 2 races, including CD, but at the weights the latter, who ran in the Welsh Grand National last time out, can be preferred. Best race here is the 2 mile novice hurdle at 16.10, where the field of 16 includes 5 last-time-out winners. With the Jonjo O´Neill stable in great form, Quazy de Joie (McCoy) must be fancied, but Charmaine Wind (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who has won twice over this course, is the form selection. Philip Hobbs´ consistent Pancake (Richard Johnson) is the cle ar choice in the 3 mile 1 furlong beginers chase at 16.40, although this trip may stretch his stamina and he could be out-stayed by Sir Peter (Henry Daly/ Mark Bradburne). German-bred Wiesenfürst (Gary Moore/ Jon Akehurst) has an each-way chance in the final amateur riders handicap hurdle at 17.10. At Kempton, War and Peace (Jane Chapple-Hyam/ Pat Cosgrave) can take the maiden race over 5 furlongs at 15.50, after running up to the useful River Kirov last time. River Kirov (Michael Wigham/ Steve Drowne) himself has been a revelation this winter and can win his 4th race on the trot in the 6 furlongs handicap at 17.50, the best race on the card. Dvinsky (Paul Howling/ Jimmy Quinn) can confirm the form of last Sunday´s win from Count Ceprano (Charles Dore/ Liam Jones) but neither should be able to cope with River Kirov; Vhujon (David Evans/ Tom McLaughlin)is a possible danger, as although his recent form is poor, he runs his best races here. German-bred Safin (Roger Curtis/ Emil y Jones) was a 66-1 winner for us at Wolverhampton and should again run well in the amateur riders handicap over 1 1 /2 miles at 18.20; Karky Schultz, also German-bred - indeed his dam won the German 1,000 Guineas- has been hurdling and could also go well.

Market Rasen, Cork and Fairyhouse all off

More bad weather news: heavy overnight rain and snow, plus gale force winds, have forced the abandonment of three of today´s meetings in Britain and Ireland. Market Rasen in Britain, and Cork and Fairyhouse in Ireland, have all been called off, leaving just Towcester and Kempton to stage racing today.

flat racing at Lingfield and Cagnes

there is flat racing on the all-weather at Lingfield today and also at Cagnes-sur-mer, where 6 of the 7 races are run on the fibregrass track. The exception is the opening 2400 metres conditions race at 13.45, which sees the only German runner of the day, Werner Baltromei´s Titan War (Koen Clymans). As the Baltromei horses have not yet hit form, this one is probably best left alone. There are plenty of ex-German horses running, notably course specialist Secret Affair in a 1300 metres handicap at 15.20 and in the mile claimer at 16.50, with no fewer than 6 ex-Germans entered, including last week´s Deauville winner Famous and the brothers Global Dream and Global Hero. Features of the Lingfield card are the class 2 handicaps over 6 furlongs at 15.55 and a mile at 17.00. Both look very tricky, our cautious tips are consistent Little Edward (Ron Hodges/ Marc Geran) in the former event and Titan Triumph (William Knight/ Jim Crowley), who can complete a five-timer in the latter.

Betting forecast Lingfield:
1.Race: It`S A Mans World - Quick Single - Art Fund
2.Race: Bomber Brown - Longboat Key - Badge Of Honour
3.Race: Dishdasha - Can Can Star - Tropical Tradition
4.Race: Hellbender - Smokey Ryder - Five Star Junior
5.Race: Internationaldebut - The Game - Tamagin
6.Race: Dream Huntress - Nicky Nutjob - Svindal
7.Race: Titan Triumph - Atlantic Story - Red Somerset



Betting forecast Cagnes sur Mer:
1.Race: Beaujeu - Bassel - Chirango
2.Race: Kerlouedec - L`Aletti - Sham Risk
3.Race: Staraco - Marnhac - Nid D`Abeilles
4.Race: Reasons - Au Suivant - Salute The Sun
5.Race: Papi Fernand - Keulinn - Alpidivo
6.Race: Le Boss - Gopura - Bernando
7.Race: Roi Dana - Cold - Cosmic Luck

Haydock, Wincanton and Naas

there is also some high-class N.H. racing today at Haydock, Wincanton and in Ireland at Naas, where another leading Cheltenham fancy, Cousin Vinny (Willie and Patrick Mullins) has only 3 opponents in the novice hurdle at 14.30. Realt Dubh (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) is the danger, but defeat for Cousin Vinny would certainly come as a surprise. Mullins can also take the novice chase at 15.00, the richest race on the card, with Equus Maximus (Paul Townend). Much more open is the listed hurdle race over 2 miles 3 furlongs at 15.35, but German-bred Aitmatov (Meade/ Carberry), not disgraced in top company, could win this at his best. More top hurdlers are on view at Haydock, although the Champion Hurdle Trial at 14.20 is unlikely to have much influence on the real thing at Cheltenham. Afsoun (Nicky Henderson/ Tony McCoy) and Snap Tie (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) are the class acts here, but they have to give a lot of weight to Malcolm Jefferson´s Issaaqah (Phil Kinsella), an ea sy winner of her last 3 races. More smart hurdlers are on view in the novice hurdle at 15.25, with Dee Eee Williams (Nick Gifford/ Liam Treadwell), Clay Hollister (Henderson/ McCoy) and Mahonia (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) all highly rated. The Peter Marsh Chase over 3 miles at 14.55 is the most valuable race here and used to be a significant Grand Nationa trial; this is probably no longer the case, but it is still a highly competitive event with runners from almost all the top yards. Cloudy Lane (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) is the only leading National contender in the field but faces a stiff task under top weight, and we have a sneaking fancy for Henrietta Knight´s Glasker Mill (Graham Lee), despite a couple of below-par efforts this season. At Wincanton, the best race is the Connaught Cup, a handicap chase over 3 miles 1 furlong. Venetia Williams has her strong in great form and can take this with bottom-weight Zacharova. Paul Nicholls is always to be feared at his local track and can land a first and last race double with Pepite de Soleil at 13.55 and Special Occasion at 17.20, his only two runners on the card.

Betting forecast Haydock:
1.Race: Snap Tie - Afsoun - Songe
2.Race: Dear Villez - Cloudy Lane - Kandjar D`Allier
3.Race: Mahonia - Dee Ee Williams - Clay Hollister
4.Race: Massini`S Maguire - Will Be Done - Wind Instrument
5.Race: Bannister Lane - The Ring - Hidden Bounty
6.Race: Tarablaze - Finney - Cloudy Times



Betting forecast Wincanton:
1.Race: Pepite de Soleil - Santia - Hey Big Spender
2.Race: Saphir Des Bois - Haar - Sharajan
3.Race: Tender Falcon - Nortonthorpe Lad - Show Winner
4.Race: Tarotino - Kew Jumper - Gentleman Jimmy
5.Race: Peppertree Lane - Victorias Groom - Vodka Brook
6.Race: Zacharova - Nicto De Beauchene - Stolen Moments
7.Race: Special Occasion - Pourdel - In Vino



Betting forecast Naas:
1.Race: Shirley Casper - Themoonandsixpence - Lord Cebellino
2.Race: Cousin Vinny - Realt Dubh - An Cathaoir Mor
3.Race: Equus Maximus - Good Fella - Nuvelli
4.Race: Aitmatov - Clopf - Coolcashin
5.Race: Colmanstown Hope - Topofdemornintou - Pommier D`Estruval
6.Race: Smack That - Maca Rince - Prudent Honour
7.Race: Jessies Dream - Tonto Murphy - Barrackhillboy

Cheltenham favourites at Ascot

Highlight of an excellent card at Ascot today is the Victor Chandler Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 15.15 CET in which Paul Nicholls´ Master Minded (Ruby Walsh) will start at long-odds on defeat his 4 opponents. While this is not a good betting race (unless you think he can get beat) it is still well worth watching, as Master Minded is the highest rated N.H. horse in training and in theory at least can hardly fail to win easily from Petit Robin (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) and ex-French Or Noir de Somoza (Tom Scudamore), having his first run for David Pipe. The sponsor is unhappy with the small field and would like to see the race to revert to a handicap, but he cannot fail to be pleased with the field for his other race, a limited handicap hurdle at 14.05 with 18 runners. This is the toughest race of the day with bookies going 9-1 the field in the early morning. Our very tentative suggestion is Group Captain (Hugh Collingridge/ Richard Killoran). Another big race is th e juvenile novices hurdle at 13.30 featuring Triumph hurdle favourite Zaydar (Nicky Henderson/Barry Geraghty). The grey won is such spectacuölar fashion on his debut that he is almost impossible to oppose here. German-bred Amore Mio (Emma Lavelle/ Jack Doyle) ran badly on his British debut, but could run into a minor place. A more likely German-bred winner is United (Lucy Wadham/Dominic Elsworth), who is clear best on ratings in the mares hurdle at 15.50. The novice chase at 14.40 is also highly interesting. Free World (Nicholls/ Walsh) is the likely favourite, but there is still a very slight question mark over the stable form and we prefer Henrietta Knight´s Calgary Bay (Dominic Elsworth), who is coming back in distance but created a very positive impreession last time at Cheltenham. Finally we expect Dreamy Sweeney to end the day on a high note for Henderson and Geraghty in the novice hurdle at 16.55. He was going well when brought down in the race at Cheltanham won by Ka rabak (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) and now reopposes on 12 lbs better terms.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Zaynar - Stow - Saticon
2.Race: Lough Derg - Serabad - Chief Yeoman
3.Race: Free World - Calgary Bay - Cool Operator
4.Race: Master Minded - Petit Robin - Or Noir De Somoza
5.Race: United - Tot Of The Knar - Doubly Guest
6.Race: Oracle Des Mottes - Saunders Road - Boomshakalaka
7.Race: Karabak - Kangaroo Court - Cabinet Minister

full programme today

today is easily the best day´s programme of 2009 so far and with no weather problems expected we can look forward to top class N.H. racing from Ascot, Haydock and Naas (Ireland), with above average back-up also from Wincanton and Lingfield (all weather). Numerous Cheltenham fancies will be on show -including Champion Chase favourite Master Minded and Triumph favourite Zaydar, both at Ascot - and while these will not be at attractive odds, there are some other really competitive events - so get your betting boots on!

Betting forecast Wincanton:
1.Race: Pepite de Soleil - Santia - Hey Big Spender
2.Race: Saphir Des Bois - Haar - Sharajan
3.Race: Tender Falcon - Nortonthorpe Lad - Show Winner
4.Race: Tarotino - Kew Jumper - Gentleman Jimmy
5.Race: Peppertree Lane - Victorias Groom - Vodka Brook
6.Race: Zacharova - Nicto De Beauchene - Stolen Moments
7.Race: Special Occasion - Pourdel - In Vino



Betting forecast Lingfield:
1.Race: It`S A Mans World - Quick Single - Art Fund
2.Race: Bomber Brown - Longboat Key - Badge Of Honour
3.Race: Dishdasha - Can Can Star - Tropical Tradition
4.Race: Hellbender - Smokey Ryder - Five Star Junior
5.Race: Internationaldebut - The Game - Tamagin
6.Race: Dream Huntress - Nicky Nutjob - Svindal
7.Race: Titan Triumph - Atlantic Story - Red Somerset

problems at Great Leighs

Britains newest racecourse, the all-weather track at Great Leighs in Essex, is facing major problems. The BHB has refused to renew its license, meaning that it is now not allowed to stage racing, and now it has been reported that the company running the course is effectively insolvent (or at least facing serious financial difficulties) and has been placed in administration.

German runners at Cagnes-sur-mer

The German challengers on the first two days of the Cagnes-sur-mer meeting made very litlle impression (ten runners, none placed!) and Werner Baltromei will be hoping for better luck today, when he saddles a further four runners (one of them under the name of Sid-Ali Ghoumrassi). Samiro runs in the opening tiercé handicap for 4yo´s over 2000 metres at 13.50, and as Dominique Boeuf cannot do the weight, will be partnered by Jerome Lermyte. Boeuf rides the other three, Stillbai in the claiming race for 3yo fillies at 15.20, Song of Tiger in the conditions race for 4yo´s at 15.50 and Journey Time in the second division of the handicap. All these races will be run over 2000 metres on the fibregrass track. Although he is running in the toughest race, Samiro has possibly the best chance, as Song of Tiger, who had good form here last winter, is coming off a long break.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Dance Dance - Freemix - Queenwell
2.Race: Sam Lion - Show Shot - La Fee
3.Race: Piste Perdue - Adrar - Golden Runner
4.Race: Singapore Treat - Islandside - Tangeante
5.Race: Aornos - Song Of Tiger - Simply Gold
6.Race: Master Winter - Sabelotodo - Judicael
7.Race: Tartesos - Liberty In Love - Jet Huit

N.H. racing at Catterick and Chepstow

The Paul Nicholls stable has been very quiet so far this year but could be back with a bang today when the trainer can take the two divisions of Chepstow´s maiden hurdle over 3 miles with Hollow Star at 14.00 CET, a winner of an Irish point-to-point on his only start so far, and King Fontaine half an hour later, who shaped well enough on his debut. Ruby Walsh partners them both, as well as the stable´s Raffaelo in the beginners chase over 3 1/4 miles at 14.35. This one looked very promising after winning his first two hurdles races, but has been off the track for moire than 2 years, and while the Nicholls runners are always ready to do their best, this trip on soft ground is quite a big ask. Keith Goldsworthy´s Hills of Aran, who is fit and stays well, could be an alternative, especially as he runs his best races for Tony McCoy, who is in the saddle today.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Hollow Star - Prince Geeno - Cast Cada
2.Race: King Fontaine - Durante - Baren De Doc
3.Race: Dontpaytheferryman - Perlon - Elbistan
4.Race: Raffaello - Hills Of Aran - The Cool Guy
5.Race: What A Scientist - Notabotheronme - Laudamus
6.Race: Guns Of Love - Milton Des Bieffes - Walsingham
7.Race: Ruby Crown - Moonlight Music - Sturbury



At Catterick, the most interesting runner could be the tremendously improved Mount Benger (Jim Best/ Rhys Flint), who is going for a four-timer under top-weight in the handicap hurdle at 14.40. He has won his last races so easily that he could well go in again, but the handicappers do their best to prevent such sequences and he has been raised a total of 41 lbs since his winning run began. Best can also take the novice hurdle at 15.45 with the good flat stayer Gee Dee Nen (Graham Lee), last seen when finishing last in the Cesarewitch. The danger here is Honest John (Tom Tate), a heavily backed favourite last time when 2nd of 21 at Doncaster and obviously capable of going one better, but the problem here is that none of the principals have raced over a´trip anywhere near today´s distance of 3 miles 1 furlong.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Burnbank - Anduril - Olimpo
2.Race: Reel Charmer - Osolomio - Dancer`S Serenade
3.Race: Mount Benger - Argento Luna - Pay Attention
4.Race: Glenary - Coldwells - Stoneriggs Merc
5.Race: Honest John - Battle Stations - Easby Park
6.Race: Gunadoir - Frith - Peak Seasons
7.Race: Twentynineblack - Mr Syntax - National Heritage

All-weather action at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

Today´s all-weather racing, at Lingfield in the afternoon and Wolverhampton this evening, is once again very low level, and 6 of the 8 races on the Lingfield card are class 6 (and the other two not much better). Three possible winning favourites here are Jeremy Noseda´s filly Theatre Street (Shane Kelly) in the 3yo maiden over 5 furlongs at 14.20 CET after her good recent debut over a furlong further here, Mutaramed (Kevin Ryan/ Jamie Spencer) in the 6 furlongs claiming race at 14.50, who has won 3 of his last 4 races and has a very good CD record, especially in this grade, and Sea Cliff (Jonjo O´Neill/ Shane Kelly), penalised 6 lbs for an easy win over today´s trip of 2 miles at Southwell on Tuesday.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Samurai Warrior - I Certainly May - Mix N Match
2.Race: Ebert - Rapid City - Shouldntbethere
3.Race: Theatre Street - Comadoir - Keep Icy Calm
4.Race: Mutamared - Parisian Gift - One More Round
5.Race: Sea Cliff - Colourful Move - Dramatic Solo
6.Race: I Confess - Strabinios King - Royal Island
7.Race: Bollywood Style - Nikki Bea - General Feeling
8.Race: Broughtons Flight - Chalice Welcome - Alberts Story



O´Neill is better known as a N.H. trainer but has his string in excellent form under both codes and can also saddle a winner at Wolverhampton - Spectait (Jamie Moriarty), in the 9 furlongs handicap at 22.20, who is also penalised 6 lbs for an easy CD win 9 days ago. Although there are only 6 runners in the 6 furlongs handicap at 21.20, this looks very tricky and any of them could win. On a line through Dvinsky, Princess Valeria (Derek Haydn Jones/ Tom Queally) is just about the form choice to beat Count Ceprano (Chares Dore(/ Liam Jones).

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Formidable Guest - Rambling Dancer - Buscador
2.Race: Silver Hotspur - Dichoh - Mataram
3.Race: Royal Salsa - Honorable Endeavor - Fleur De Lion
4.Race: Princess Valerina - Count Ceprano - Peter`S Storm
5.Race: Sarah`S Art - Tadlil - Mister Incredible
6.Race: Spectait - Saltagioo - Bluejain

All-weather action at Great Leighs and Southwell

The action this afternoon at Southwell and this evening at Great Leighs pales into insignificance beside the Nad el Sheba meeting, but at least we have some recent form to go on. That said, the most interesting runner at Southwell is Mark Prescott´s Almamia (Stephen Donohoe), who is having her first run for 14 months. She contests the 1 1/2 mile maiden at 16.30 CET. The daughter of Champion Stakes winner Alborada woud win this if anywhere near her best, but the long break gives reason for pause, especially as Prescott´s runners this week have not been really firing. Ibrox (AD Brown/ Jimmy Quinn) and Augustus John (Steve Parr/ John Egan), second and third in a similar race here last week have an obvious fitness advantage. Quick off the Mark (James Given/ Hayley Turner), a narrow winner last time at Wolverhampton, can follow up in the fillies´ mile handicap at 15.30.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Whiskey Creek - Briery Lane - Mystickhill
2.Race: Jordi Roper - Hurricane Coast - General Tufto
3.Race: Amber Moon - Vanatina - Bahamian Bay
4.Race: Mozayada - Moon Crystal - Quick Off The Mark
5.Race: Lithaam - Ridley Didley - Spoof Master
6.Race: Almamia - Ibrox - Monaadi
7.Race: To Be Or Not To Be - Aegean Pride - Another Genepi



At Great Leighs the opening 6 furlongs handicap at 19.50 is the best betting race. Both Replicator (Pat and Paul Eddery) and Obe Royal (David Evans/ Stephen Donohoe) ran well enough last time to suggest that they can be in the shake-up now. The 5 furlongs handicap at 21.20 lies between top-weight Ivory Silk (Jeremy Gask/ Chris Catlin) and Wotashirtful (Kevin Ryan/ Jamie Spencer).

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Sendreni - Namu - Leading Edge
2.Race: Ice Bellini - Little Carmela - Enthusius
3.Race: Prince Of Medina - Viscount Rossini - Itsawindup
4.Race: Wotashirtfull - Ivory Silk - Fromsong
5.Race: Murfreesboro - Clear Sailing - Bavarica
6.Race: Man Of Gwent - Folio - Rawdon

Dubai Racing Carnival gets under way

Today is the opening day of the Dubai Racing Carnival, which is set to enliven the next two months with high class racing, usually on a Thursday, building up to a climax on Dubai World Cup day on March 28th. It will be the last time that the meeting will be held at Nad el Sheba, as the track is to be demolished after the World Cup and the huge new complex at Meydan will host the 2010 fixture. Main feature today is the first round of the Al Maktoum Challenge, a Group Three race on dirt over a mile at 19.05 CET.

The race looks very tricky, with question marks over both Happy Boy (Mubarak bin Shayla/ Ahmed Ajtebi), who won this last year for Godolphin but lost form afterwards, and Royal Vintage (Mike de Kock/ Kevin Shea), who has been gelded since his last disappointing start. However the booking of Shea still suggests that he is the selected of Mike de Kock´s four entries; the South African has been easily the most successful trainer at this meeting in recent years. Golden Arrow, who was third in this in 2007 and sixth last year, and Don Renato could both prove dangerous. The 7 furlongs race for fillies at 17.20 looks a mach between Sos Brilliance (Saeed bin Surtor/ Frankie Dettori) India Tiberna (Kock/ Shea), both easy winners on their only start in Chile 10 months ago. The remaining races are all very open handicaps and probably best left alone, in view of the lack of recent form. There is no betting in Dubai and bets will normally be settled at British bookmakers´ industry prices.

Betting forecast:
2.Race: Inca Noble - Jalmira - Happy Spirit
3.Race: India Tiberina - Sos Brillante - Esta Bailando
4.Race: Dijeerr - Emirates Skyline - Yaddree
5.Race: Brave Tin Soldier - Irish Mayhem - Glen Nevis
6.Race: Happy Boy - Green Coast - Royal Vintage
7.Race: Sugar Ray - Varsity - Lion Sands

German runners at Cagnes-sur-mer

The Cagnes-sur-mer meeting continues today with several more German-trained runners entered, all trained either by Werner Baltromei or by Said-Ali Ghoumrassi, who looks after his Marseille contingent. Fire Dragon (Domnique Boeuf) contests the opening race for unraced 3yo´s at 13.15 and Naxon (Boeuf) the tiercé handicap over 2000 metres at 13.50. Both Soterio (Boeuf) and Balladur (Koen Clymans) run in the claiming race over 2400 metres at 14.20, while Fancy Running (Boeuf) is engaged in the mile handicap at 15.20. The Baltromei runners on Monday gave the strong impression that they badly needed the race, so that punters should be careful in backing these horses today, as they may well show improved form next time out.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Bellinissimo - No Experience - History Boy
2.Race: Roi - Salsa De La Tour - Now The Tiger
3.Race: Paging the King - Soterio - Balladur
4.Race: Mille Etoiles - Rain Of Melody - Triki Miki
5.Race: Pouchou - Calicon - Wal d`Arcy
6.Race: River Rose Boy - Round Stone - Major`s Love
7.Race: Kalos Kagathos - Pirate Bere - Daisy Like
8.Race: Lanabablue - Tarpon - The French

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

All-weather racing this afternoon at Lingfield and this evening at Kempton, but the fields, often small, consist mainly of inconsistent has-beens and no-hopers, with a sprinkling of young hopefuls. The most glaring example is Acropolis (Tony Carroll/ Vince Slattery), who runs in the claiming race over 2 miles at 14.10 CET at Lingfield. How are the mighty fallen! Who now remembers that this horse was once a major prospect for Aidan O´Brien and ran fourth in the 2004 "Arc"? However it then went all downhill and he has not won since. On ratings he can hardly tose today, but he is clearly one to be wary of, and possibly course specialist Wind Flow (Chris Dwyer/ Cathy Gannon) or Alraafid (Gary Moore/ Fergus Sweeney), who has not run on the flat for 4 years but has won several times over hurdles, can outbattle him today.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Gone Hunting - Art Fund - Swiss Art
2.Race: Rebel City - Royal Collection - Dollar Express
3.Race: Wind Flow - Acropolis - Alrafid
4.Race: Cheap Thrills - Princess Cagliari - Dark Camellia
5.Race: Phoenix Flight - Summer Winds - Faithful Ruler
6.Race: Supernoverre - Black N Brew - True Britannia
7.Race: Nickel Silver - After The Show - Caribbean Coral
8.Race: Simpsons Gamble - Loyal Royal - Compton Classic



Sir Mark Prescott´s Phoenix Flight (Stephen Donohoe) can win the class 4 handicap over 10 furlongs at 15.20 if he is in top form after a three months break (if not, Terry Mills´ consistent Summer Winds (Shane Kelly) would be the selection) and the same duo move on to the floodlit Kempton meeting, were they are represented by Fandangerina, who has been off for even longer, in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 21.20. Mark Johnson´s consistent Scarab (Greg Fairley) is the obvious danger here, but do not overlook top-weight Allanit (Andrew Stringer/ Tom Queally). The Schlenderhan-bred was listed class in Germany and the British handicapper may have taken a chance in dropping him to a mark of 84.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Sherjawy - Baba Ghanoush - Flamestone
2.Race: Syrinx - Thief Of Time - Destinationunknown
3.Race: King`s Colour - Namu - Marmooq
4.Race: Scarab - Remember Ramon - Spirit Of Adjisa
5.Race: Rock Anthem - Balata - Fancy Footsteps
6.Race: Cut And Thrust - Lexlenos - Lucky Fortune

N.H. racing at Newbury and Newcastle

At last a full programme from the U.K. today, wth two jumps meetings and also two flat meetings on the all-weather. Not surprisingly there are some large fields at Newbury and Newcastle today, and the going at both tracks is reportedly good to soft.

Perhaps the most interesting horse on view is Nicky Henderson´s giant Mad Max (Tony McCoy), who runs in the 2 mile 3 furlongs novice hurdle at 14.55 CET at Newbury. This huge horse, one of the biggest in training, is still unbeaten after winning both his bumpers here, and was odds-on when making a winning debut over hurdles before Christmas at Ascot. This race is no walkover, as the other penalised runners, Cockney Trucker (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), Shoreacres (Brendan Powell/ Keith Renwick) and Teddy´s reflection (Henrietta Knight/ Dominic Elsworth) hae also shown above-average ability. It could be yet another proftable day for Hemderson, who also saddles a promising newcomer in Optimus Maximus (McCoy) in the opening 4yo hurdle and also two runners with chances in the novice chase at 14.20: French Opera (Marcus Foley) and Shabadti (Sam Waley-Cohen); the one they have to beat is Philip Hobs´ CD winner Planet of Sound (Johnson).

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Mount Helicon - Optimus Maximus - Art Exhibition
2.Race: Planet Of Sound - French Opera - Shatabdi
3.Race: Mad Max - Cockney Trucker - Shoreacres
4.Race: Night Safe - Tarotino - Master Somerville
5.Race: Russian Flag - Honour`S Dream - Kikos
6.Race: Jaunty Flight - Arctic Magic - Pyleigh Lady
7.Race: Zazamix - Lidar - Swell Fellow



At Newcastle, the best race is the beginners chase over 3 miles at 14.00. Nine de Sivola (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee) is the class act, having been runner-up four times running in good handicaps, but he ran badly last time out and seems to have an aversion to winning. Both Hockenheim (Howatd Johnson/ Denis O´Regan) and Bold Ransom (Keith and James Reveley) will test him today. However the former fares, his team should take the following novice hurdle over 3 miles with the promising On Raglan Road, runner-up to te smart Junior last time out. He holds Grizebeck (Nicky Richards/ Davy Condon) - who had won his 4 previous races, 3 of them on the flat - on that form, and Sphinx (Edwin Tuer/ Keith Mercer), who made a decent but berlated hurdles debut recently, can follow him home.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Naturally Inspired - Stormy Waters - Lemon Drizzle
2.Race: Nine De Sivola - Hockenheim - Bold Ransom
3.Race: On Raglan Road - Grizebeck - Border Reiver
4.Race: The Whisperer - Stagecoach Opal - Silver By Nature
5.Race: Dark Gentleman - Kirkside Pleasure - Admiral Savannah
6.Race: Nelliedonethat - Mistral De La Cour - Storm Surge
7.Race: Penny Queen - Sure Josie Sure - Zoenicibel

Jumping today at Folkestone

Folkestone has passed an early morning inspection and racing goes ahead at the Kent track. The weather is however now very wet and the ground will be testing, which may not suit German-bred Weststern (Sam Hanson), who is having his first race for Gary Moore in the handicap hurdle for conditional jockeys at 14.20 CET. Another German-bred with a slight chance is hurdles debutant Gofannon (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) at 15.20. Laharna (Lucy Wadham/ Dominic Elsworth), an easy winner at Huntingdon at Christmas, can follow up under a penalty in the 2 mile handicap chase at 15.20, while the 3 miles 1 furlong handicap chase at 16.20 is the toughest race of the day, especially if the rain continues. Venetia Williams´ National Petition (Sam Thomas) has won his last 3 races but has gone up in the weights, and on these terms last-time-out winner Solid as a Rock (Grant Cann/ Tom O´Brien) can be preferred.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Doctored - Atahuelpa - Rhetorical
2.Race: Laharna - Mucho Loco - Amir El Jabal
3.Race: Psi - Silk Affair - Red And White
4.Race: Ballyaahbutt - Kappelhoff - Justabout
5.Race: National Petition - Syncopated Rhythm - Solid As A Rock
6.Race: Alasi - Ryde Back - Gentle Caribou

All-weather action at Great Leighs and Southwell

The two all-weather meetings today offer only unattractive sport and punters should be careful with theur bets, and races at this level often thrown up unpredictable results. In addition the fields at Great Leighs are quite small (no field larger than 7) and some races may be run at a false pace. Jamie Spencer landed a hat-trick here on Sunday, and while he was emoty-handed yesterday he can be among the winners today, as he has rides in every race - all for different trainers. His best prospects would appear to be Desert Strike for Paul Cole at 15.10 CET, Distinctly Game for Kevin Ryan at 14.40 and Joe Jo Star for Richard Fahey at 17.40, all three carrying top-weight in moderate handicaps.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Deckchair - Desert Strike - Abu Derby
2.Race: Milne Bay - Sendreni - Distinctly Game
3.Race: Taikoo - Benedict Spirit - Baan
4.Race: Millfield - Kensington - Pension Policy
5.Race: Open Sesame - Solo Choice - Dante Deo
6.Race: Joe Jo Star - Scutch Mill - Miss Understanding



The racing at Southwell is more competitive as the fields are larger, but the standard is even lower. Gay Kelleway can possibly land a double here with Bienheureux (Matthew Lawson) at 14.30 and Fortunella (Paul Mulrennan) half an hour later. Charlotte Gray (Phil McBride/ Duran Fentiman) made all to win here over 6 furlongs last time and can defy a 6lbs penalty and an extra furlong to confrm the form with runner-up Nautical (Jim Holt/ Jerry O´ Dwyer) at 16.00. Our long-shot each way suggestion is the unreliable (but so are they all) Diminuto (Mark Usher/ Cathy Gannon) in the opening 5 furlongs seller at 14.00.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Grimes Faith - Back In The Red - Spic `N Span
2.Race: Jocheski - Red Tarn - Black Falcon
3.Race: Sabancaya - Fortunella - Sea Cliff
4.Race: Diamond Surprise - Trick Or Two - La Capriosa
5.Race: Charlotte Grey - Nautical - Mister Benji
6.Race: Ultimate - Kochanski - Benozzo Gozzoli
7.Race: Triple Axel - Mrs Bun - Tri Chara

Ireland today

Ireland has far fewer racing fixtures than the U.K. and this gives them a big advantage when the weather causes cancellations, as has so often been the case this month, as it is relatively easy to transfer abandoned metings. Yesterday we had last Saturday´s Punchestownfuxture, and today it is the turn of last Thursday´s Thurles meeting. Best race on the card is the Grade 3 chase over 2 1/4 miles at 14.10 CET. The race revolves around Finger onthe Pulse (Tom Taaffe/ Paddy Flood), who ran a fine race only on Sunday at Leopardstown against much stronger opposition. If he turns out again, he should win; if not Irish Invader (Willie Mullins/ Ruy Walsh) is the obvious alternative. In any case the Mullins/ Walsh team can score with the smart bumper with the unpronounceable name Uimhiraceathair in the maiden hurdle ar 15.45. Another trainer in top form in Dessie Hughes, who had 3 winners yesterda, and he can take the 4yo hurdle at 14.40 with Flag of Honour (Paddy Flood), who was ver y unlucky last time. Air Chief (Eric McNamara/ Robbie Power), an easy winner of his only hurdles race, is the main danger, although No One Tells Me (Jessica Harrington/ Andrew Leigh), behind these two on his only starts so far, meets them on 7 lbs better terms and must be respected.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Paddy Joe - My Lord Oscar - Shrove Tuesday
2.Race: Finger Onthe Pulse - Irish Invader - Holly Tree
3.Race: Flag Of Honour - Air Chief - No One Tells Me
4.Race: Browns Baily - Oscar Dan Dan - Prince Rudi
5.Race: Uimhiraceathair - Fosters Cross - Gonebeyondrecall
6.Race: Betabob - Charming Hills - Oddwiller Manyana
7.Race: Marlay Park - Boskill Cross - Now Wich One