N.H. racng at Doncaster, Kelso and Navan (Ireland)

Main feature at Doncaster is the 3 1/4 mile chase at 16.25 CET, where the field includes Grand National winner Comply or Die (David Pipe/ Timmy Murphy), who however only runs if the ground is not too firm. Noir et Vert (Ferdy Mirphy/ Graham Lee), very unlucky last time, is the obvious danger, together with Ungaro (Keith and James Reveley) and Alderburn (Henry Daly/ Adrian Tinkler) - second and third in this last year. The bumper for 4-5yo´s at 1.00 is a valuable event, but the field of 18 comprises 6 debutants and 12 maidens! Ludor (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson), Millers Dawn (Henrietta Knight/ Dominic Elsworth) and Nodforms Violent (Karen McClintioc Graham Lee) have all shown ability and could be the main factors. Otherwise, an each-way bet on German-bred Early Wings (Caroline Bailey/ Andrew Thornton) in the opening novices handicap hurdle at 14.50 is recommended. There could also be a German-bred winner at Kelso as Wendel (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) should take the main fea ture. a Grade Two novice hurdle at 17.10; he has won 3 of his 4 starts in Britain and holds main danger Alfie Flits (Alan Swinbank/ Brian Hughes) on earlier form. There are only 4 runners in the 2 3/4 mile chase at 16.35 and on ratings Cloudy Lane (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire), a leading Grand National fancy, stands out by miles; Money Trix (Nicky Richards/ Noel Fehily) looks nailed on for second, although the trip is on the short side for both of them. At Navan the best race is the 3 miles novice chase at 16.50, which probably lies between Rare Bob (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood) and Equus Maximus (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend).Mullins can also take the last 2 races with Captain Conflict (Townend) and Alexander Seaview (Patrick Mullins).

N.H. racing at Newbury and Kempton

No all-weather racing today, but five interesting jumps meetings (including one in Ireland). The best meeting is at Newbury, where the grandly-named Gold Cup, a handcap chase over 2 1/2 miles at 16.10 CET, is the main event. with 17 runners, this is really wide open. Paul Ncholls saddles 3 of them, including Natal, the choice of Ruby Walsh, who won the race last year but now has top weight to carry. On form, Mr.Pointent (Sam Thomas) seems to have equally good chances, while bottom weight The Package (David Pipe/ Rhys Flint) is on a seductively low mark. Others to consider are (Ouzbeck Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who has won 5 of his last 8 starts, but faile to complete the other 3 times, Hold ´Em (Keith Goldsworthy/ Richard Johnson), Starzaan (Highie Morrison/ Tom Scudamore) - coming off a 10 months break, but he runs best when fresh - and Charlie Egerton s Hobbs Hill, for whom Tony McCoy is an eye-catching booking. The other interesting race at Newbury is the opening novice hurdle at 14.35; the 3 last-time-out winners Definity (Nichols/ Walsh), Minella Theatre (Henrietta Knight/ McCoy) and Aqualung (Charle Mann/ Thornton) must give 6lbs to the other runners, best of whom is Nicky Hemnderson´s Run for Moor (Barry Geraghty), a useful bumper but disappointing on his hurdles debut.

Betting forecast Newbury:
1. Race: Definity - Minella Theatre - Aqualung
2. Race: Oh Braga - Fit To Drive - Schiehallion
3. Race: Church Island - Go For One - Tom Sayers
4. Race: Hold Em - Starzaan - The Package
5. Race: Mutual Friend - Dishdasha - Norman The Great
6. Race: Kevkat - Blues In Cee - Clova Island
7. Race: Bellvano - Global Warming - Oh No Not Harry

At nearby Kempton, the opening novice hurdle at 14.50 is also a good race, in which Gary Moore saddles two runners, Love and Glory (Philip Hide) and the most interesting runner, Persian Storm (with son Jamie aboard); the latter was a dual Group winner in Germany 2 years ago for baron Ullmann, lost his way for André Fabre last season, and was very headstrong on his recent all-wrather debut for this stable last week. If he settles and jumps, he must have a great chance in this company. Otherwise tere are some very small fields at Kempton, but it could be a good da for the Moore family, as multiple winners Fix the Rib (Jamie) and Heathcote (Hide) can dominate the novice handicap chase at 17.30 - where Free World (Nicholls/ Christian Williams), dropping in grade but conceding lots of weight, is the only danger, and in the 3-runner novice chase at 16.55 the race should mainly concern the Moores´ Or Jaune and Oracle des Mottes (Nicholls/ Williams).

Betting forecast Kempton:
1. Race: Love And Glory - Hohlethelonely - King Brex
2. Race: Captain Americo - Midas Way - Coda Agency
3. Race: Constantius - The Hardy Boy - Alfadora
4. Race: Hell`S Bay - The Shoe - Pheidias
5. Race: Oracle Des Mottes - Or Jaune - My Turn Now
6. Race: Fix The Rib - Free World - Heathcote
7. Race: Aconitum - The Bishops Baby - Divine Intavention

German runners at Deauville

French racing action switches now from the South to the North of the country, amd today sees the first day of the Deauville "spring" meeting. German runners did very well at the winter meeting here, and two runners today will try to improve that record: Malkovich (Ralf Schaaf/ Maxime Guyon), a recent winner at Dortmund, runs in the 3yo claimer over 1500 metres at 14.20, and front-runner Orway (Ralf Rohne/ Y Bourgois), winner of his last 2 races at this track, runs in the 2400 metres handicap at 16.20. In both cases there are large fields with numerous possibilities, so that it will not be easy for the two German runners.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Serpotta - Cattelan - Anan
2. Race: Cocody - Roman Eagle - Dianeva
3. Race: Tamazirte - Ribadesella - Allee Centrale
4. Race: Twin Peaks - My Secret Love - Bereft
5. Race: Pur Sucre - Low Budget - Cibicotti
6. Race: Orway - River Bere - Golconde Mine
7. Race: Babouche - Ti Salsa - Henry Morgann
8. Race: Panache Blanc - April Call - Sholanzara
9. Race: Magic Sun - Betcherev - Mutraf

N.H. racing at Newbury, Doncaster and Fakenham

Three jumps meetings today, with mainly large fields at Newbury, but much fewer runners at the other two tracks. Newbury also offers the best racing, and although we are most unlikely to see many Cheltenham contenders, severel of the runners in the opening 4yo hurdle at 14.35 have Triumph Hurdle entries, including Niclky Henderson´s debutant Tasheba (Barry Geraghty), a useful stayer on the flat. However on flat ratings he has little in hand of ex-German Narcisco (Nigel Hawke/ Donal Fahy), whio was not far off listed class in Germany.

Best on public hurdles form is Forget It (Gary and Jamie Moore), another interesting contender in what could be an informative race. Henderson has fancied runners all over today, and can also take the 2 miles handicap chase at 15,40 with Pepsyrock (Geraghty), a very easy winner at Sandown last week; top-weight Kelrev (Alan King/ Christian Williams) is not very reliable but always capable of springing a surprise. It could be significat that Ruby Walsh comes here for just one ride, Paul Nicholls´ Michel le Bon in the novice hurdle at 15.10, and this easy Chepstow winner can remain unbeaten, although there is plenty of oppositon, headed by the useful According to Dick (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson). Henderson can land a double at Doncaster with the Queen´s Gold Award, a smart bumper making his hurdling debut at 15.00 and German-bred Fairyland, runner-up on all her 4 British starts so far, in the mares handicap hurdle at 17.45, both partnered by Felix de Giles. Tony McCoy is in action at Fakenham, where he can land a double on Forty Five for Jonjo O´Neill in the novices handicap hurdle at 15.55 and Henderson´s debutant Know the Law in the maiden hurdle at 16.30, who has Gloucester (Michael Scudamore/ John Kington) to beat.

Two out-and-out Fakenham specialists clash in the opening handicap chase at 14.50, The Dark Lord (Lucy Wadham/ Matt Crawley) and Cool Roxy (Tony Blackmore/ Chris Honour), and although neither has convincing recent form to their credit, they can dominate here back on their favourite racecourse.

Three all-weather meetings today

Lots of action for all-weather fans today, with racing this afternoon at Lingfield and this evening at Wolverhampton and also in Ireland at Dundalk. The Dundalk card offers little quality but plenty of quantity, as there are maximum fields for most races. The best race is the 1 1/2 miles conditions race at 21.40 CET. Unfortunately Champion Hurdle contender Harchibald does not now run, but there is still a top-class N.H. performer in the field, John Queally´s Al Eile (Fran Berry), who despite a long absence throiugh injury can take this at the main expense of Prince Erik (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen) and Green Tabasco (Mike O´Brien/ Wayne Lordan). Otherswise the card is dominated by 3 bumpers, which can all go to Willie Mullins´ in-form stable.

At Lingfield, Gay Kelleway´s Singleb hasc struck up a fine partnership woth Jamie Spencer and the cmbinbation can win for the fourth time running in the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.55. However it is his first run at this track and with top-weight it will not be easy, with several CD specialists in opposition, for example German-bred Napoletano (Simon Dow/ Neil Callan), who however has become very inconsistent. The 3yo handicap over furlongs at 17.30 looks quite open, but lightly-raced Theatre Street (Jeremy Noseda/ Neil Callan) and Quick Single (Phil McEntee/ Steve Drowne) are both improving types who can doninate here. At Wolverhampton, Mutamared (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan), who haswon his last 5 races, meets better opposition in the 6 furlongs handicap at 21.20 but can still score again. Veterans Little Edward (Ron Hodges/ George Baker) and The Tatling (Milton Bradley/ Robert Winston) look the main dangers. Another winning sequence can be continued in the 9 furlongs handicap a t 20.50, where the much-improved Brouhaha (Tom Dascombe/ Ross Atkinson) attempts to win his fourth successive race, all over this CD.

2 group races and UAE Oaks at Nad al Sheba

The Dubai Racing Carnival continues today with another strong card and maximum fields in most races. The main events are the Group Three Al Quoz Sprint over 6 furlongs at 18.15 CET, the Group Three Zabeel Mile at 19.15 (both on turf) and the UAE Oaks on dirt at 18.45. This last-named event has 8 runners, 6 of whom ran in the UAE 1000 Guineas, where So Shiny (Jerry Barton/ Mick Kinane) ran out a easy winner from the fast-finishing Japanese filly Earth Living (M.Ogasa/ Christophe Lemaire) with hot favourite Devotee (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori) flopping badly. A different result this time would be no huge surprise. The Zabeel Mile has 4 runners trained by Mike de Kock and jockey bookings suggest that Archipenko (Kevin Shea) and King of Rome (Johnny Murtagh) are the two best, although the latter is running over a much shorter trip than usual. Tam Lin (Saeed bin Suroor/ Dettori) looks the main danger. De Kock and bin Suroor, easily the two leading trainers over years at th is meeting, also go head to head in the Al Quoz Sprint, with JJ the Jet Plane (de Kock/ Shea) against Hatta Fort (bin Suroor/ Frankie) - German entry Peace Royale is a non-runner here. In the DRC Gold Cup at 17.45, the first ever race over 2 miles at the meeting. Veracity (bin Suroor/ Dettori) and Mourilyan (Herman Brown/ Ryan Moore), a close second and third over 1 3/4 miles here last time, clash again and there should be little in it.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Grantley Adams - Nota Bene - Almajd
2. Race: King Jock - Bermuda Rye - Calming Influence
3. Race: Traffic Guard - Art Of War - Jalil
4. Race: Veracity - Mourilyan - Mulaqat
5. Race: J J The Jet Plane - Dohasa - Munaddam
6. Race: So Shiny - Devotee - Sos Brillante
7. Race: Vertigineux - Kalahari Gold - Archipenko
8. Race: Oracle West - Once More Dubai - World Ruler

N.H. racing at Ludlow, Taunton and Thurles (Ireland)

Three tracks stage jumps racing today, and easily the best race is the Grade Two novice hurdle at 16.25 CET at Thurles, with several of the best Irish novices involved. Caim Hill (Philip Fenton/ Mr. BT O´Connell) has won his last five races, but has to give weight to much hotter opposition now, which will not be easy. Willie Mullins has such a strong string of novice hurdlers that his Quiscover (Emmet Mullins), who has won his last 3, looks the one to beat, but Donnas Palm (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) and Clan Tara (Paul Nolan/ Davy Russell) also have smart form, amd the winner here will certainly be a good one. Carthalawn (Charlie Byrnes/ Davy Russell) beat some really smart opposition with authority at Naas on Sunday and this form should make him a near certainty for the Cashel Chase at 15.25. At Ludlow, the Forbra Gold Cup a handicap chase over 3 miles at 16.50, is no longer the hot race it used to be, and gives the German-bred CD winner Pretty Star the chance to get back o n the winning trail.

Any improvement in the going will help his chances, as it will also for another German-bred Walamo (Tim Vaughan/ Seamus Durac) in the novice handicap hurdle at 16.20. Nicky Hemderson´s Eradicate (Barry Geraghty) started at odds-on before running out an easy winner of his hurdles debut and is likely to be at very short odds again to complete the double at 18.20.Paul Nicholls is usually the trainer to follow at Taunton, and that couold be the case again today. He could take the three novice hurdles, all over different distances, at 15.30, 16.30 and 17.30 respectively with Special Occasion (Christian Williams), Gullible Gordon (Harry Skelton) and Qozak (Sam
Thomas).

All-weather action at Southwell and Wolverhampton

Today´s all-weather action comes from Southwell this afternoon and Wolverhampton in the evening and the fields are generally very small, several with only 4 runners. Only 6 line up in the days best event, a class 2 handicap over 1 1/2 miles at Wolverhampton at 21.20 CET, in which Blacktoft (Evan Williams/ Chris Catlin) is the likely favourite after winning his last 3 races, twice here. However those were over 9 furlongs, while he has never run beyond 10 furlongs so far, so this is a trip into new territory. In the circumstances, top-weight Wine ´n Dine (Gary Moore/ Neil Callan) may be preferred. This lightly-raced type has no stamina problems, and has indeed won over 2 miles, but is equally effective at this trip.

Betting forecast Wolverhampton:
1. Race: White Shift - Harry Up - Blue Tomato
2. Race: Compton Classic - Figaro Flyer - Count Ceprano
3. Race: Monaadi - Remember Ramon - Little Carmela
4. Race: Blacktoft - Wine `N Dine - Spirit Of Adjisa
5. Race: Scamperdale - Gallantry - Plush
6. Race: Gaily Noble - Royal Society - Sullenberger

The top race at Southwell is over the minimum distance of 5 furlongs - a handicap at 161.0 with 9 runners, just about the largest field of the day on the flat. Love you Louis (John Jenkins/Simon Whitworth) made all with first-time blinkers to score in a photo-finish last time at Kempton from Ledleys Choice (Roger Curtis/ Neil Callan), with Cecily (Sir Mark Prescott/ Steve Donohoe) a close fourth. At the revised weights there should be very little between this trio. Best bet of the day should be Robert Cowell´s Air Lion (Shane Kelly) in the 3yo maiden over 5 furlongs half an hour later, who made an excellent debut recently over this CD.

Betting forecast Southwell:
1. Race: More Time Tim - General Tufto - Barataria
2. Race: My Sweet Georgia - Madison Belle - Swiss Art
3. Race: Lesley`S Choice - Love You Louis - Cecily
4. Race: Air Lion - Fasliyanne - Migliori
5. Race: Benedict Spirit - Phoenix Flight - Profit`S Reality
6. Race: Lady Longcroft - Quick Off The Mark - Friends Hope
7. Race: Shifting Gold - Trueblue Wizard - Diamond Surprise

N.H racing at Bangor, Folkestone and Downpatrick (N. Ireland)

Three jumps tracks in action today, and pride of place goes to the Welsh track at Bangor on Dee, which is celebrating its 150th birthday. "The 150 Years of Racing at Bangor on Dee" handicap chase over 3 miles at 16.50 looks booked for Ultimate Limit (Alan Fleming/ Johnny Farrelly), who after 27 months off with imjuries has come back in fine style with 2 easy wins for his young trainer and still looks very well handicapped; he is moving up in grade here, but gets in on a very low weight. Tony McCoy has good prospects of winning the 3 mile handicap hurdle at 17.20 with Jonjo O`Neill´s I´m the Decider, but the interesting one here is top-weight Dom d´Orgeval (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore). He has been running over fences and has raced only 4 times in the past 2 years, completing the course only once, and well beaten on the other occasion. However he has been competing in top company, and is potentially thrown in at this level. The mares novice hurdle at 16.20 is also interesting. P elican Point (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) is a useful performer, but has a double penalty and may not be able to give the weight to Gold Reef (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), behind her last time but now 7 lbs better off, and Flutter Bye (Henry Daly/ Richard Johnson). Otherwise the day is dominated by two so-called Grand Nationals. The Ulster Grand National over 3 1/2 miles at 16.45 at Downpatrick looks very open with 16 runners. News Item (George Stewart/ John Vullen) is a standing dish here; he fell last year, but won the two previous runnings. Selection Box (C. McBratney/ Ruby Walsh) and Beantown (Steve Aherne/ SJ Ferris) and Gripit ´n Tipit (Charlie Swan/ DG Hogan), third and fourth in a similar race at Punchestown last time, woth several of these opponents further back, head the long list of dangers. Ruby Walsh also partners Barker, who makes his debut for Willie Mullins in the novice chase at 17.15, and if he can recover his earlier good hurdles form, he must go close. At Folkestone the Kent National is run over 3 miles 7 furlongs at 17.10 and also looks wide open. The top-weights Lyes Green (Oliver Sherwood/ Dominic Esworth), runner-up to Jass over 4 miles, and Iwillrememberyou (Charlie Longsdon/ Seamus Durack), an early faller in the Eider Chase last Saturday, are obvious contenders, while Maletton (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) and Apatura Dik (Nick Mitchell/ Daryl Jacob), although both moving up in trip, must also be considered. Gallileo Figaro (Neil King/ Alex Merriam) has already won easily twice in the past 6 days and may be able to complete a quick hat-trick in the handicap hurdle at 16.40, but it will not be easy for the mare with a 14 lbs penalty. One who should should complete a hat-trick without too much trouble is Silk Affair (Mick Quinlan/ Tom O´Brien) who looks dfferent class to her opponents in the mares novice hurdle at 15.40.

All-weather action at Kempton and Wolverhampton

All-weather racing this afternoon at Wolverhampton and this evening at Kempton, but again the vast majority of races are class 5 or 6. The best race at Wolverhampton is the 7 furlongs handicap at 18.00 CET, where the ex-Australian Catalan Bay (Jeremy Gask/ Steve Drowne) makes his second British start. He was well supported on his debut here and ran a fine race to finish second at Lingfield a month ago and, given normal improvement, should go close today. The dangers are Cornus (Alan McCabe/ James Doyle), not disgraced in 5th last time after two wins including this CD, and easy last-time-out winner Caprio (Tom Dascombe/ Ross Atkinson), both from in-form stables. There is quite a large field for the 1 3/4 miles handicap at 16.30, and German-bred Safin, who is not the most consistent but is currently in good form, having won last week both over hurdles and on the flat, can score again. The filly Ice Bellini (Gay Kelleway/ Jamie Spencer) is an obvious threat.

Betting forecast Wolverhampton:
1. Race: Many Welcomes - All You Need - Bold Diva
2. Race: Yungaburra - Woodcote - Desperate Dan
3. Race: La Diosa - Strikemaster - Nicky Nutjob
4. Race: Garra Molly - Air Maze - Taminas Desert
5. Race: Safin - Ice Bellini - Generous Star
6. Race: Catalan Bay - Caprio - Cornus
7. Race: Muktasb - Mr Rooney - Fizzlephut
8. Race: Giddywell - Waldorf - Machinate



At Kempton, the 3yo handicap over 7 furlongs at 21.20 is the main event, and Mark Johnson´s Emirates World (Joe Fanning), an easy maiden winner last time, can continue the stable´s winning run. Markyg (Karl Burke/ Fergus Sweeney) looks the main danger; he showed quite useful form last year but has been off since October and has a huge weight to carry.

Betting forecast Kempton:
1. Race: Lytham - Noah Jameel - Tecktal
2. Race: Forty Thirty - Soul Singer - Cardinal James
3. Race: Obe Royal - Ravi River - Jake The Snake
4. Race: Emirates World - Markyg - Auld Arty
5. Race: Lovely Steps - Perfect Class - Just The Lady
6. Race: Amber Moon - Kinsman - Countrywide Comet

N.H. racing at Catterick and Leicester

Two jumps meeting today and both report good to soft ground, good in places, i.e. much better ground than we have had for the past two months of bad weather. This should certainly be to the advantage of German-bred Backbord (Lucy Wadham/ Dominic Elsworth), who faces 5 opponents in the novice chase at 16.50 CET at Leicester. Lightning Strike (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) is also German-bred and looks the main danger, but Jaunty Flight (Oliver Sherwood/ Oliver Greenall) and Rightway Star (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) are also useful. Thedreamstillalive (Jim Old/ Jason Maguire) is a CD winner and is in good form; he has an obvious chance in the handicap chase at 17.50, but the interesting one here is Jonjo O´Neill´s Matcho Pierji (Tony McCoy), who has made no show in his recent races in much better company.

McCoy should also win the opening beginners chase at 15.20 on James Fanshawe´s Song of Songs, who was well beaten on his debut over fences but meets much inferior opposition now. The most interesting race at Catterick is the 2 mile handicap chase at 16.10 with 12 runners (one of the smallest fields at the meeting). Majorca (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee), Stagecoach Amber (Sue Smith/ Tjade Collier) and Eborarry (Tim Easterby/ Brian Harding) all finished second last time, and one of them should win now, with preference for Majorca, another one who should appreciate better ground. The novice chase over 3 1/4 miles at 17.10 seems to lie between Chief Dan George (Jimmy Moffatt/ Paddy Aspell) and Great Approach (Nicky Richards/ Fearghal David), both of whom have been placed on all their runs over fences so far. Chief Dan George was easily the better over hurdles and can score today.

Lingfield today

Today´s all-weather racing comes from Lingfield, but again the card is very modest. The "best" race is the class 4 handicap over 6 furlongs at 16.30 CET, where there are only 5 runners.

Top-weight Chjimes (Conor Dore/ Liam Keniry) is in excellent form, having won 3 of his last 4 races, all with this jockey. He showed good speed to get up close home here over 5 furlongs on Saturday, and this trip is probably better. Wotashortfull (James Boyle/ Martin Dwyer), just touched off at Southwell last time, and all-weather specialist Grand Parade (Derek Shaw/ Dane O´Neill) are the obvious dangers. More interesting could be the maiden races. Dance and Dance (Eddie Vaughan/ Jamie Spencer) and Head Down (Richard Hannon/ Pat Dobbs), both placed in all their 3 starts this year, are both due for a win and clash in the 7 furlongs race at 15.30. The former appears to have the better form, while well-bred Hector Spectre (Brian Meehan/ Martin Dwyer) is an interesting newcomer.

The debutants could also have the call in the 6 furlongs race for 3yo maidens at 16.00, where 7 of the 11 runners are making their racecourse debuts. Keep Ringing (William Haggas/ Gilmar Pereira) and L´Arco Baleno (Simon Callaghan/ Holly Hall) could be the pick of them, but the one to beat is surely Five Gold Rings (Jamie Osborne/ Shane Kelly), who showed great promise on his debut and is clearly the best of those with experience.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Binnion Bay - Jessica Wigmo - Inka Dancer
2. Race: Kiyari - True Britannia - Supernoverre
3. Race: Dance And Dance - Head Down - Hector Spectre
4. Race: Five Gold Rings - Keep Ringing - L`Arco Baleno
5. Race: Wotashirtfull - Chjimes - Resplendent Alpha
6. Race: Over To You Bert - Cavalry Guard - Admirals Way
7. Race: Elsie Jo - Miss Mojito - Sarasota Sunshine
8. Race: Wyeth - Sir Liam - El Dececy

Baltromei at Marseille

The Cagnes-sur-mer meeting is over, but there is still racing in the south of France and the action today moves along the coast to Marseille, where there are 7 flat races and two over jumps. Werner Baltromei, who had a most disappointing meeting at Cagnes, tries here with a couple of flops from the Riviera track, who may be much setter suited by the soft turf track they will encounter here, rather than the fast fibresand they raced on at Cagnes. They are Naxon in the tiercé handicap over 2000 metres at 13.50 and Delano in a 2600 metres handicap at 15.50, both partnered by Dominique Boeuf. In the latter event White Bull (Said-Ali Ghoumrassi/ William Mongil) is another runner for the stable and could also go well.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Riviera Paradise - Mille Chief - Lomirana
2. Race: Tarpon - Naxon - Carimo
3. Race: Somethingspanish - Coryfee - Kaysadoun
4. Race: Noor`s Goldway - Rain Of Melody - French Wisdom
5. Race: Rex Regina - Red Bullet - Huapi
6. Race: Damax - Silver`s Wish - Incentive
7. Race: Almaguer - Full On Magic - Reve D`Ailleur
8. Race: Madison Road - Mont Du Val - Quotidien Special
9. Race: Le Bazin - Wisning du Frene - Saintongeais

N.H. racing at Hereford and Ludlow

It is unlikely that we shall see any Cheltenham winners in acrion at today´s jumps meeting at Hereford and Plumpton, but one possible runner at the festival is Calaficial (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who is entered in the maiden hurdle at 15.30 at Hereford. He has won two bumpers, and will need to outclass today´s opposition to have any chance at Cheltenham. Lamanver Homerun (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) is well-treated by the conditions of the novice chase at 16.30 and can make the most of the 11 lbs he receives here from Rustarix (King/ "Choc"). The best race at Hereford is the 2 mile 1 furlong handicap hurdle at 17.00. Top-weight Rippling Ring (Nicholls/ Walsh) is the class act here, but he disappointed badly on his last 2 starts (both on soft ground) and will need to be back to his best to concede the weight to recent dual winners Carrickboy (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) and German-bred Oldrik (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson). Two very recent easy winners making a quick re turn to the track are Conny Nobel (Craig Roberts/ Jack Doyle) in the handicap chase at 16.00 and Quillygham (David Pipe/ Mr.TJ Cannon) in the "hands and heels" handicap hurdle at 17.30 and both can score again under a penalty before their weights are readjusted upwards. At Plumpton, Novikov can win the maiden hurdle at 15.50 for the father and son team of Gary and Jamie Moore; although beaten more than 20 lengths last time, that form could still be good enough in ths company, and he was quite useful on the flat for John Gosden. The handicap hurdle at 16.50 looks very open. Brian Ellison´s Aureate has top-weight but could run well with Tony McCoy, who rode his 3000 th winner here a fortnight ago, in the saddle. Intensifier (Dai and Christian Williams) have twice been runner-up and deserves a change of luck, while bottom-weight Wondersobright (Peter Butler/ Zoe Lilly) was a 33-1 winner here last time with this rider aboard and could go well again. The strangely-named Gallileo Figaro (Neil King/ Alex Merriam) beat a huge field at Huntingdon last week and has an obvious chance in the mares handicap hurdle at 17.50, but Lethem Island (Robert Stronge/ Jamie Moore) has been dropped in the weights and could be an interesting outsider here.

Wolverhampton today

Wolverhampton stages the only all-weather racing today, and even diehard fans will find it hard to get enthused by today´s card, which consists entirely of class 5 and 6 races. In our opinion Brouhaha (Tom Dascombe/ Ross Atkinson), who runs in the apprentice handicap over 9 1/2 furlongs at 16.10 CET, is the best bet on the card. The 5yo had never won before this year, but has now won two successive races over this CD - his only starts at this track- and can complete his hat-trick against today´s modest opposition. Mark Johnston rarely goes home without a winner these days and can land a double in the maiden races at 17.10 and 17.40 with Badge of Honour (Greg Fairley) and Ettrick Mill (Joe Fanning); in each case the main danger comes from the Jamie Osborne stable - National Monument (Chris Catlin) and the well-bred debutant Lords a Leaping (Shane Kelly) respectively.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Russian Symphony - Perlachy - Grimes Faith
2. Race: Gurteen Diamond - Little Lost - Circle Dance
3. Race: Brouhaha - Monfils Monfils - Hucking Heat
4. Race: Just Jimmy - Mister Trickster - Ardent Prince
5. Race: Badge Of Honour - Dollar Express - National Monument
6. Race: Ettrick Mill - Divinatore - Sign Of Approval
7. Race: Man Of Gwent - Eseej - Morbick

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

the meetings at Towcester and Lingfield are nowhere near as compelling as events at Fontwell and Naas, but the novice hurdle at 16.00 CET at Towcester is a highly interesting race. Aachen (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) has won his only two hurdle starts - both in the last 16 days- in promising style and can remain unbeaten, but Kilverton Boy (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) and Neil Harvey (Nick Gifford/ Liam Treadwell) are also unbeaten over hurdles and will not be easily brushed aside. These three must concede weight to the others, but it will be a major surprise if they do not claim the first three places. The best race at Lingfield is the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.55, but with some non-runners, the field is likely to be quite small. Can Can Star (Tony Carroll/ Shane Kelly) has won 4 of his last 6 starts, all this CD, and is obviously the one to beat. However Mark Johnston is always to be feared here and his Planetary Motion (Greg Fairley), who won a maiden this CD a t the end of December, is a big danger, while Gary Moore saddles two runners, of which Alpes Maritimes (Fergus Sweeney) is clearly the better. The 6 furlongs handicap at 15.50 is typically wide open with 12 runners, but trainer John Jenkins has strong claims here with his two runners Hollow Joe (Micky Fenton) and Davids Mark (Simon Whitworth).

Betting forecast Towcester:
1. Race: Sherbet Lemon - Bethebestyoucanbe - That`S For Sure
2. Race: Aachen - Kilvergan Boy - Neil Harvey
3. Race: Pipo De Re - Fourball - Blaze Ahead
4. Race: Elsie`S Pride - Stick Together - Woodlands Genpower
5. Race: Tastes Like More - Tizzy Blue - Catch The Stars
6. Race: Gentle Caribou - Alora Money - Guydus



Betting forecast Lingfield:
1. Race: Step It Up - After The Show - Colorus
2. Race: Hollow Jo - Davids Mark - Patavium Prince
3. Race: Desert Lark - Miss Understanding - Sir Haydn
4. Race: Can Can Star - Planetary Motion - Alpes Maritimes
5. Race: Hawkspring - Harty Boy - Why Nee Amy
6. Race: Electric Warrior - Jake The Snake - Willkandoo
7. Race: Moon Crystal - Saucy - Millie`s Rock

more Cheltenham clues at Naas

today is virtually the last chance for Cheltenham candidates to have their final prep run - the meeting starts in 16 days - and Naas stages 3 Grade 2 races, which could have some bearing on the big festival meeting. Thgis is especially true of the novice hurdle at 15.45 CET, in which Zaarito (Colm Murphy/ Matt O´Connell) really has to be successful if he is to stake a realistic Cheltenham claim. He is accompanied by stablemate (and pacemaker?) Kimberlite (Alan Crowe), but the main danger is likely to be the mare Oligarch Society (Michael O´Brien/ Davy Russell) in receipt of weight from the favourite. Weight could also be the deciding factor in the 2 mile chase at 17.20, in which the two consistent oldtimers Mansony (Arthur Moore/ Davy Russell) and Watson Lake (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) must concede 6lbs to Schindlers Hunt (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood), a task which should be beyond them, However Mansony, a course specialist who has never been beaten in a chase at this track, will not be easily brushed aside, while Watson Lake, though held on recent form, can never be ignored. The 2 1/2 mile novice chase at 16.15 looks very open, although none of the contestants look up to Cheltenham standard. Good Fella (P and MF Mooney), Hurricane Carter (Thomas O´Leary/ Davy Russell) and Majestic Concorde (Dermot Weld/ RP McNamara) look the three likeliest contenders here. Those looking for a long shot should consider ex-German Dalian (Arthur Moore/ Philip Carberry) under bottom weight in the handicap hurdle at 16.50.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Smoking Aces - Puyol - Fair Ina
2. Race: Zaarito - Go Native - Roberto Goldback
3. Race: Majestic Concorde - Hurricane Carter - Good Fella
4. Race: Celtic Strand - An Cathaoir Mor - Pistol Flash
5. Race: Schindlers Hunt - Mansony - Carthalawn
6. Race: Guts For Garters - Barneys Honour - Dun Doire
7. Race: Quadrillon - Rite Of Passage - Early Doors

Paul Nicholls to go through card at Fontwell?

easily the best racing in Britain today takes place at Fontwell, with several races likely to offer last-minute Cheltenham clues, but the main interest is in the strong challenge of top trainer Paul Nicholls, who has fancied runners in all 7 races and it is by no means inconceivable that he could go through the card - an extraordinary feat. Needless to say, Ruby Walsh partners most of the stable´s runners, but Nicholls is doubly represented in some races, while an amateur partners Royal Auclair in the hunters chase. Most important event is the Grade Two National Spirit Hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 16.45 CET, which could go to the admirably tough and consistent Lough Derg (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore), who won this race last season and has put up sone excellent performances since. Afsoun (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) has a Champion Hurdle place to his credt, but probably swerves Cheltenham this year, while Straw Bear (Nick Gifford/ Tony McCoy) has also seen his Champion Hurdl e hopes take a knock or two. Hills of Aran (Keith Goldsworthy/ Bernie Wharfe) comes into the reckoning on his excellent run againbst Kasbah Bliss last time, but the really interesting runner is Nocholls´ Pierrot Lunaire (Walsh), who has fallen on both his starts this season, but looked potentially very smart when winning at last year´s Grand National meeting. Alfie Sherrin in the novice hurdle at 15.10 and Kicks for Free in the novice chase at 15.40 are two
hot favourites likely to score for the Nicholls/ Walsh team,and certainly it seems realistic to expect four -or even more!- winners for the Ditcheat stable.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Alfie Sherrin - Richard`S Sundance - Ballycarney
2. Race: Kicks For Free - Sound Accord - Mount Sandel
3. Race: Medicinal - Strawberry - Oceanos Des Obeaux
4. Race: Lough Derg - Afsoun - Hills Of Aran
5. Race: Royal Auclair - Herecomestanley - Honourable Spider
6. Race: Pertinent - Onyx Bruere - Spider Boy
7. Race: Oamaru Stone - Toulaman - Latin America

final day at Cagnes-sur-mer

today sees the end of the Cagnes-sur-mer winter meeting, with two listed races as the highlights. The Grand Prix du Conseil General over 2500 metres at 16.10 is the top event of the meeting and has today attracted a huge field, which includes Bluefields (Eric Leray/ Olivier Peslier) and Libertador (Jean-Marc Capitte), the first two in this event last year. It looks very open this time, but the Prix Policeman for 3yo´s over 2000 metres at 15.35 seems more clear cut, with only 7 runners, and should go to Quetsche, who is out of German classic winer Que Belle. Her trainer Jean-Claude Rouget and jockey Ioritz Mendizabal have enjoyed a most successful meeting, which cannot be said for German trainer Werner Baltromei, who last year had the first two in the Policeman. Today he has no runners in the top races, but has a good each-way chance in the tiercé handicap over 2150 metres for 4yo´s at 14.35 with Samiro (Dominique Boeuf) and also has two runners in the very last race at 17.40, the second division of thr handicap, Titan War (Koen Clijmans) and Journey Time (Boeuf).

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Aktion Power - Celtic Wolf - Don Pelayo
2. Race: Dance Dance - Samiro - Queenwell
3. Race: Briolo - Benazet - Call Me White
4. Race: Quetsche - Street Romance - Villa Molitor
5. Race: Cristobal - Maitresse - Libertador
6. Race: Violon Sacre - Secret Affair - Bank Guard
7. Race: Lined - Araxios - So Gold
8. Race: Nayez Pas Peur - Ginger Bride - Distant Far

jumps racing at Chepstow, Newcastle and Fairyhouse (Ireland)

There is also good N.HJ. racing today at Chpstow, Newcastle and in Irelad at fairyhouzse, with pride of place going to Newcastle´s Eider Chase over 4 miles 1 furlongs at 16.30 CET. This is a major Grand National Trial, and was won last year by Comply or Die, who went on to score at Aintree, but this year´s edition foes not seem quite so strong. Jass (Keith and James Reveley) has won his last 2 races and is the likely favourite, but has gone up in the weights. Toy Gun (Howard Johnson/ Johnny O`Farrell) has also won his last two, but is still well handicapped, slthouh moving up in grade, while Iwillrememberyou (Charlie Longsdon/ Tom Siddall), runner-up at Haydock last time, and Fair Question (Doinald McCain/ Jason Maguire) are two more for the short list. Previous CD experience counts for a lot here, and therefore Rimsky (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Peter Buchanan), runner-up last year, and Chabrimal Minster (Graham Lee), third in 2007, must also be considered. There are some small fields in some if the other races here, but Ernst Blofeld (McCain/ Maguire) and Skippers Brig (Len Lungo/ Keith Renwick) should outclass their few opponents at 15.55 and 17.35 respectively. At Faryhouse there are also small fields in the twoGrade Two races; Coffee Tea or Me (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend) is an interesting debutant in the 4yo hurdle at 15.40, but No One Tells me (Jessica Harrington/ Andrew Leigh) has already shown hurdling ability, while Donegal (Robert Hennessy/ Philip Carberry), although disappointing so far, was the best of these on flat form. Mullins and Townend can also go close with Snowy Morning (the right name for Munich today!) in the 3 miles 1 furlong chase at 16.15, but Black Apalachi (Dessie Hughes/ Roger Loughran) is our selection. The most interesting race at Chepstow is the veterans chase (for 10yo´s and older) over 2 miles at 16.20. This has only 7 runners burt still ooks wide open. The two ex-Germans Foreman (Jonjo O´Neill/ Alan Berry) and W ild Power (Helen and Owyn Nelmes) would hae a chance f back to their best, but our preference is for Henry Daly´s Palarshan (Christian Williams), who is now on a very favourable handicap mark.

Betting forecast Chepstow:
1. Race: Jokers Legacy - Hey Big Spender - Pliny
2. Race: Phardessa - Tambourine Ridge - Catch The Stars
3. Race: Bally Conn - The Wooden Spoon - Magnifico
4. Race: Tramantano - Bob Bob Bobbin - Almaydan
5. Race: Snake Hips - Shali San - Winged D`Argent
6. Race: Tarsus - Glimmer Of Light - Guns Of Love
7. Race: Civil Servant - Scrum V - Maggio



Betting forecast Newcastle:
1. Race: Silver By Nature - Daldini - Silver Sedge
2. Race: Nelson Du Ronceray - Prosecco - Best Prospect
3. Race: Ernst Blofeld - Political Paddy - Twelve Paces
4. Race: Jass - Merigo - Iwillrememberyou
5. Race: Best Lover - Catch Bob - Gilsland
6. Race: Skippers Brig - Dream Garden - Belon Gale
7. Race: Sitting Tennant - Eco Story - Quannapowitt



Betting forecast Fairyhouse:
1. Race: Aggie`S Lad - Checkpointcharlie - Orpheus Valley
2. Race: Coffee Tea Or Me - No One Tells Me - Kyrie Eleison
3. Race: Snowy Morning - One Cool Cookie - Southern Vic
4. Race: Chateau D`Eau - Rocco`S Hall - Paradis De Thaix
5. Race: Ten Fires - Erritt Lake - Themoonandsixpence
6. Race: An Siorrac - Having A Cut - Royal Blood
7. Race: Lios A Choill - Midtown Boy - Sumetune

rest of Kempton

Kempton also stages three highly interesting Grade Two races, all of which could have a bearing on Cheltenham´s N.H. festival. In the novice hurdle at 15.05, all eyes will be on leading Cheltenham fancy Ainama (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), an impressive CD winner on his debut. He receives weight from the useful Alfie Flits (Alan Swinbank/ Brian Hughes) and Dee ee Williams (Nick Gifford/ Liam Treadwell), winner and fourth in a Haydock Grade Two last time, while smart flat performer Alazari (Terry Mills/ Jamie Moore) is an interesting debutant. Shoild Ainama win, that would be a clear pointer to Hebridean´s chances in the 4yo hurdle at 16.45, as the Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh contestant was runner-up on that occasion. He was group class on the flat and can win this, in receipt of weight from ex-French Helium (Gifford/ Treadwell), easy winner of both his British starts so far. Nicky Henderson and Barry Geraghty are represented here by Excape, who was bogged down in the mud l ast time, but should shape much better on today´s faster ground. There are only 4 runners in the novice chase over 2 1/2 miles at 15.35, and Herecomesthetruth, winner of 4 of his 5 starts this season, can be another winner for Nicholls/ Walsh team. However Ouzbeck (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), another who cannot act on very soft ground, is the best here on ratings, can score here.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Thundering Star - Honest John - I Have Dreamed
2. Race: Ainama - Conflictofinterest - Dee Ee Williams
3. Race: Herecomesthetruth - Ouzbeck - Au Courant
4. Race: Big Fella Thanks - Hold Em - Nacarat
5. Race: Helium - Excape - Hebridean
6. Race: Pop Ahead - Le Burf - Soulard
7. Race: Bellvano - King`S Legacy - Ballybach

Racing Post Chase at Kempton

The Racing Post Chase, a valuable 3 mile handicap run today at 16.10 CET, is one of Kempton´s top races of the year and has attracted a very strong field today with 20 runners, almost all of whom can be given a chance. Clear favourite however is Big Fella Thanks (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), an impressive winner at Doncaster last time. However he has been raised 13 lbs for that win, and it will be by no means easy to confirm that form with runner-up Ungaro (Keith Reveley/ Jamie Moore) or for that matter 5th-placed Laskari (Paul Webber/ Dominic Elsworth). Tony McCoy´s mount Nacarat, trained by Tom George, was also an easy winner last time and comes into the reckoning, while Philps Hobbs and Richard Johnson have an excelkent record here and their hope Lacdoudal is also respected, while the two bottom-weights Fier Normand (Jonjo O´Neill/ Richard McLernon) and Hold´Em (Keith Goldsworthy/ Rhys Flint) -both with good claimers aboard- is two others with chances. Several trainers have more than one entry, which further complicates the issue. Apart from Paul Nicholls´ four, Nicky Henderson, Henry Daly and Nigel Twiston-Davis have two runners each; jockey bookings suggest that Fleet Street (Barry Geraghty), Possol (Mark Bradburne) and Battlecry (Paddy Brennan) respectively are their main hopes. Obviously Big Fella Thanks, also strongly fancied for the Grand National, can win this, but in our opinion he is at a false price because of his top-class connections and the fact that owner Harry Findlay has apparently backed him heavily.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Thundering Star - Honest John - I Have Dreamed
2. Race: Ainama - Conflictofinterest - Dee Ee Williams
3. Race: Herecomesthetruth - Ouzbeck - Au Courant
4. Race: Big Fella Thanks - Hold Em - Nacarat
5. Race: Helium - Excape - Hebridean
6. Race: Pop Ahead - Le Burf - Soulard
7. Race: Bellvano - King`S Legacy - Ballybach

listed races at Lingfield

the all-weather track at Lingfield stages one if its better cards today, with two listed races on the programme. Although they have small fields, they are both very competitive and both have a strong German element. Erika Mäder´s Smarten Die (Jim Crowley), who has won both his 2009 starts very easily at Dortmund, runs in the 6 furlongs race at 15.40 CET and could go well at a big price. The obvious favourite here is Irish raider Duff (Edward Lynam/ Kevin Manning), who has not been seen out since winning two similar races before Christmas, including this CD, where Smarten Die could only finish fifth. Ceremonial Jade (Marco Botti/ John Egan) and Swiss Franc (David Elsworth/ Jamie Spencer) were each behind Duff on both occasions, and the clear danger on current form is Matsunosuke (Barnie Coogan/ Luke Morris), who is in great form and has already won 3 times this year, twice here; however those races were over 5 furlongs, and although he has also won over 6, it could be that th e minimum distance suits him better. The 10 furlongs Winter Derby Trial at 16.15 has only 5 runners, but they are all useful. Suits Me (Tom Tate) is the form horse here, having won 5 of his last 6 starts, including this CD, but meets much better opposition here. He was runner-up here in December behind Dansant, with Re Barolo (Botti/ Egan) fourth and Scintillo (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) fifth, so those two will need to improve, but the other two contestants are more interesting. Kandidate (Clive Brittain/ Robert Winston) is not the most consistent, but was back to form with a win last Sunday, but Persian Storm, once the top lot at Baden-Baden´s yearling sales, is the one we fancy most. He was most disappointing last year for Andre Fabre, when still running in the Baron Ullmann colours, but has since been sold and now makes his first appearance for new trainer Gary Moore with George Baker in the saddle. He is clearly a tricky character, but if he is anywhere near the fo rm he showed in Germany in 2007, he should play a leading role here.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Mellow Mixture - Red Suede Shoes - Leo The Lion
2. Race: Terminate - Tyrrells Wood - Wind Flow
3. Race: Incomparable - Whiskey Creek - Chjimes
4. Race: Matsunosuke - Duff - Ceremonial Jade
5. Race: Suits Me - Re Barolo - Scintillo
6. Race: Mahadee - Majuro - Capricorn Run
7. Race: Bonus - Whistledownwind - Internationaldebut

German runners at Nad al Sheba

The eighth day of racing at the Dubai Racing Carnival once again has a very strong card, with the Group Three Balanchine Stakes for fillies and mares over 1777 metres at 19.20 CET the main feature. This is virtually a re-run of the Cape Verdi, run a fortnight ago over a mile, in which the unbeaten Reem (Jerry Barton/ Fernando Jara) ran out a comfortable winner from Front House (Mike de Kock/ Kevin Shea) with Eva´ s Request (Mick Channon/ Ted Durcan) third and Andreas Wöhler´s Peace Royale fourth, with several more of today´s field behind. Reem has a small penalty today, so that Front House is fancied to reverse the form, while German hopes are high that Peace Royale, who will be partnered this time by Frankie Dettori, will also finish much closer. An interesting newcomer here is the Japanese Group One winner Black Emblem, who will be partnered by Mick Kinane. Logically, Reem, who has done nothing wrong so far, should maintain her unbeaten record, but it promises to be a great race. Another German-trained runner on the card is Peter Schiergen´s Duellant (Andrasch Starke), who finished a close sixth after making most of the running here a fortnight ago. He runs in the 2000 metres handicap at 17.45 and the main dangers appear to be Strategic News (Herman Brown/ Ryan Moore), Irish runner Fiery Lad (Ger Lyons/ Johnny Murtagh) and Feared in Flight (Saeed bin Suroor/ Ted Durcan), while Frankie partners Luca Cumani s Bon Spiel. Both Mike de Kock and Saeed bin Suroor failed to train a winner yesterday, but it could look very different today, as they have fancied runners in most of the 8 races.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Munaddam - Diana`s Choice - Blue Sky Basin
2. Race: Grantley Adams - Bermuda Rye - Dohasa
3. Race: Commander Cave - Brave Tin Soldier - Jet Express
4. Race: Fiery Lad - Bon Spiel - Strategic News
5. Race: Two Step Salsa - Lucky Find - Easy Target
6. Race: Macarthur - Bankable - Emmrooz
7. Race: Deem - Black Emblem - Front House
8. Race: Without A Prayer - Summer Doldrums - Eddie Jock

N.H. racing at Musselburgh, Sandown and Warwick

All three tracks offering jumps racing today have some interesting races, and possibly some Cheltenham contenders will be on view. It is now exactly 3 weeks to the Gold Cup! The novice hurdle at 15.00 CET at Musselburgh is one of the best races, much stronger than the average class 4 race at this track. Red Moloney (Howard Johnson/ Denis O Regan) is the class horse here, having won twice in excellent style, but will have to be really smart to give weight to this opposition, including Houstoin Dynimo (Nicky Richards/ Davy Condon), runner-up on both his hurdles starts so far. The really interesting one could be debutant Raincoat (Heather Dalton/ Steven Craine); the ex-Gosden gelding was runner-up to Authorized in the 2007 Dante Stakes, and if he can reproduce his flat ability over sticks, will be one to follow. Howard Johnson and Denis O´regan have several fancied runners on the card and have two more winning chances with Striking Article in the novice chase at 15.35 and Wave P ower in the bumper at 17.55. Ferdy Murphy is also in good form, and holds a string hand in the 3 mile handicap chase at 16.45 with Noir et Vert (Graham Lee) and CD specialist Kalmo Bay (Matt O´Connell). At Sandown, there are only 5 runners in the Grade Two novice case at 16.20 but all of them have their chance here. German-bred Gauvain (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) and Free World (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) were both odds-on flops last time after jumping badly, but can redeem themselves here. The latter meets his conqueror Panjo Bere (Gary and Jamie Mpore) on slightly better terms now, but our selection is the much improved Doctor David (Caroline Bailey/ Andrew Thornton). Nicky Henderson is back to form this week and has three good chances with Pepsyrock in the 2 mile handiap chase at 15.10, Burton Port in the novice hurdle at 15.45 and Zanzibar Bay, who won by 32 lengths last time out, in the 3 mile chase at 17.30, all ridden by Barry Geraghty. Tony McCoy will be in action a t Warwick and can win the novice hurde at 14.50 on Nicky Henderson´s Clay Hollister, but again, this is quite a strong field. McCoy can also take the novice chase at 15.55 on Jonjo O´Neill´s Firth of Forth, an easy last-time-out winner.

All-weather action at Southwell and Wolverhampton.

Today´s all-weather racing comes from Southwell in the afternoon and Wolverhampton in the evening, but with all races either class 5 or 6, there is little to excite the imagination. At Southwell, the two top-weigjts and last-time-out winners Royal Envoy (Paul Howling/ Tolley Dean) and Kipchak (Clive Brittain/ Martin Dwyer) can dominate the mile handicap at 14.55 CET, with preference for the latter. Brittain and Dwyer also have a chance with Wahan in the 3yo handicap at 16.05; although he has shown little so far, he can make his mark in this company. Three German-breds are in the large field for the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 17.50. Bright Sparky (Mick Easterby/ Dale Gibson), a CD winner last time out, could be the best of them, while Tyrana (Jon Spearing/ Tolley Dean) has been disappointing so far. The interesting one could be Safin, an easy winner over hurdles on Monday; his flat form is very inconsistent, but he is reunited here with Graham Gibbons, who won of him earlier in th e winter. At Wolverhampton, the most interesting event is the 7 furlongs handicap at 20.20. Imprimis Tagula (Alan Bailey/ Neil Chalmers) landed a gamble yesterday and if he turns out again under a penalty, can score again. But there is plenty of in-form opposition, including Ravi River (Tom Dascombe/ Ross Atkinson), also a winner already this week.

Dubai Racing Carnival

This week´s double meeting at Nad al Sheba will be the seventh (today) and eighth (Friday) fixture of the Dubai Racing Carnival and once again features some very competitive racing. Today´s card includes 6 handicaps, mainly on turf, but the main event is the Group Two Al Fahidi Fort, a Group Twp race over a mile at 18.55. Trainer Mike de Kock and jockey Kevin Shea have dominated this race in recent seasons and can take it again with Imbongi; de Kock has also booked Frankie Dettori to partner Hunting Tower, but he still looks the stable´s second string. However Frankie, easily the leading rider at the meeting so far, looks in for another good day, as Godolphin´s easy handicap winners from the last meeting Asset, in the 6 furlongs handicap at 17.10, and Yamal, in the mile handicap at 19.25, won so well that they can go in again under a penalty. Frankie has also been booked by Ms. Erichsen to partner the German-bred Echoes Rock in the 1500 metres handicap at 16.05 and this ex-Ba ron Ullmann runner also has a good chance, although Mike de Kock´s Stubbs Art (Shea) would be a huge danger if back to his best form of last spring. Another interesting de Kock runner is Honour Devil (Johnny Murtagh) in the mile conditions race at 16.40, who has not been seen out since his spectacular victory in the UAE Derby at last year´s Carnival; de Kock´s runners often need their first run after a break, but on ratings Honour Devil must be very hard to beat today.

Betting forecast:
2. Race: Pointing North - Echoes Rock - Glow Star
3. Race: Honour Devil - Estihdaaf - Little White Lie
4. Race: Asset - Judd Street - Instant Recall
5. Race: Team Victory - Bucintoro - Arqaam
6. Race: Eastern Anthem - Mr Brock - Halicarnassus
7. Race: Summit Surge - Hunting Tower - Imbongi
8. Race: Leandros - Furnace - Yamal
9. Race: Gravitas - Captain Webb - Waldvogel

N.H. racing at Ayr, Huntingdon and Clonmel (Ireland)

The best race at today´s 3 N.H. meetings is clearly the Sidney Banks Memorial, a novice hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 16.25 CET at Huntingdon, which looks a very open affair. In the past this race has been won by several top-notch performers, but it is unlikely that any of today´s runners will feature strongly at the Cheltenham festival or other top meetings. However it is a most competitive affair, and logically the form choice must be the consistent Son of Flicka (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire), who had McMurrough (third)(Malclm Jefferson/ Graham Lee) and Mahonia (seventh) (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) behind him when runner-up to Alfie Flits last time at Haydock. Cracboumwitz (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) and Helpston (Pam Sly/ Warren Marston) look big dangers, while the winning form of King ar Aghaidh (David Arbuthnot/ Andrew Thornton) has been boosted this week. There are huge fields in the handicaps, but King and "Choc" should in any case go close with Minella Four Star in th e 3 mile chase at 16.55, while two German-breds with decent each-way chances are Early Wings at 15.20 and Diarius at 17.30. At Ayr, Quwetwo (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´regan) won his only hurdle start so far so easily that it is hard to imagine his being defeated in the novice hurdle at 16.45, while another hat-trick seeker is local trainer Lucinda Russell´s Nelliedonethat (Peter Buchanan) in the handicap chase at 17.15. Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh have been cleaning up in the recent Irish meetings and scored another double yesterday; they can continue on their winnings ways today at Clonmel, where Earth Mother in the mares maiden hurdle at 15.15 and Dooneys Gate in the chase at 16.45 both hold good chances. Walsh can also win the maiden hurdle at 16.15 on Financial Regulator for Margaret Mullins, while sister Katie has good prospects with Johnnie Joblot in the ladies handicap hurdle at 17.45.

All-weather action at Kempton and Southwell

Today´s all-weather racing comes from Southwell in the afternoon and Kempton this evening, but most races are class 6 and consequently of no huge interest. At Southwell, Jamie Spencer can land a double for trainer Simon Callaghan on Under Review in the 5 furlongs maiden at 15.00 CET and My Sweet Georgia in the 3yo claimer over 6 furlongs at 16.35. Most open race here is the 6 furlongs handicap at 17.05. Top-weight Back in the Red (Ron Harris/ Kevin Ghunowa) comes here in peak form, having won 4 of his last 6 races, but at these weights is not certain to confirm his success over This One´s for Eddy (Steve Parr/ Adam Kirby), who is now 9 lbs better off for 2 lengths. Dorn Dancer (Derek Barker/ Tony Hamilton), who shows her best form in the spring, is an interesting a.w. debutante here. Best race at Kempton is the 6 furlongs handicap at 21.50, featuring several horses that have already run against each other recently. Top-weight Resplendent Alpha (Paul Howling/ Ian Mongan) won a t Lingfield last week, with Distinctly Game (Kevin Ryan/ Joe Fanning) a close fourth after not getting the run of the race. Ravi River (Tom Dascombe/ Richard Kingscote) won at Wolverhampton on Tuesday, but this looks trickier under a penalty. Elsewhere, German-bred Fin Vin de Leu (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) returns from a 4 months break in the mile maiden race at 21.20, but should have too many guns for the relatively feeble opposition in this event.

Baltromei tries again at Cagnes-sur-mer

Today is the penultimate fixture of the Cagnes-sur-mer meeting, and German trainer Werner Baltromei, for whom the meeting has certainly not gone to plan, tries again to improve his rather meagre balance - 3 wins so far, compared to 11 last year. He runs the promising Escargot in the 3yo maiden over 2000 metres at 14.50 and Alpe d´Huez in a 1300 metres handiap at 16.50, with with Dominique Boeuf in the saddle. Escargot should certainly finish in the money- there are several small fields at Cagnes today, and this race ha only 6 runners- but may find thr Aga Khan s Nizamabad (Jean-Claude Rouget/ Ioritz Mendizibal) too strong. Alpe d´Huez was a bit disappointing last time, but has a chance on his earlier running; however this is a very open race with 16 runners.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: L`Impressioniste - Staraco - Anisakis
2. Race: Cool King - Secret Heart - Cos
3. Race: Nizamabad - Huangdi - Escargot
4. Race: Estoril City - Johanan - Maggi Fong
5. Race: Dianaba - Ashdeuzo - Rockawango
6. Race: Sunny Bere - Sky Mamba - Liberty Chery
7. Race: Evergrey - Miss Denmark - Treize Heureux
8. Race: Foreign Raider - Flashmob - Lune Opaque

Ireland today

a decent all-hurdles card at Punchestown today, with possibly some Cheltenham contenders on view, and the team to follow once again seems to be trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Ruby Walsh, who have fancied runners in the first 4 races. Pomme Tiepy was a bit disappointing in the autumn, but can come back to form in the 2 1/2 mile race at 14.55 CET. Otay Kawn was an easy winner last time and can follow up in the 2 mile race at 15.35, although he faces strong opposition from Uncle Tom Cobley (Conor O´Dwyer/ Davy Russell) and Realt Dubh (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry). Quevega, who has some smart French firm to her credit, and Sports Line can also score for the Mullins/ Walsh combination at 15.55 and 16.30 respectively.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Pomme Tiepy - Head Of The Posse - Mick The Man
2. Race: Uncle Tom Cobley - Otay Kawn - Realt Dubh
3. Race: Quevega - On The Way Out - Ambobo
4. Race: Sports Line - Dundrum - Killeenmore
5. Race: Kind Oscar - Fly Vic - Mary`S Little Vic
6. Race: Meadows Thyne - Rory`S Sister - Aggie
7. Race: Rinceoir Rua - Taking Stock - Ifitstobe

N.H. racing at Doncaster and Ludlow

With the ground getting better, there are some large fields at today´s jumps meetings. The most interesting race at Doncaster is the veterans (i.e. 10yo´s and up) handicap chase at 16.20 CET, which looks wide open. The two "Kings" Barry (Paula Robson/ Timmy Murphy) and Harald (Mark Bradstock/ Mattie Batchelor) have obvious chances, but Venetia Williams´ Spring Lover (Liam Treadwell) certainly takes the eye here with bottom weight. There is a huge field of 18 for the 2 1/2 mile handicap hurdle at 16.55, but A French Horse (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas), who ran so well at the weekend, can complete a quick double for his in-form trainer. Higgys Boy (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), who had no chance in top company last time at Cheltenham, can take the opening 4yo hurdle at 14.40 and Henderson can also be among the winners at Ludlow where his debutant Acordeon (Tony McCoy) can take the opening maiden hurdle at 14.50. Henderson also has chances with top-weight Working Title (Fel ix de Giles) in the handicap hurdle at 16.35, but this looks a very open race; Harry Tricker (Gary and Jamie Moore) looks very dangerous, while German-bred Nordwind (Evan Williams/ Donal Fahy) also comes into the reckoning if the ground is not too soft. Baseball Ted (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), caught on the line on Saturday has Battlefield (Richard Lee/ Charlie Poste) to beat in the 2 mile handicap chase at 15.25, while Jim Best´ s Gee Dee Nen should be another winner for McCoy in the 3 mile maiden hurdle at 16.00.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

With the weather improving everywhere (except in Germany!), things are now back to normal in Britain and Ireland and the ground is drying out as well. We have a full programme today, with 2 N.H. meetings this afternoon in the U.K. and one in Ireland, as well as all-weather racing this afternoon at Lingfield and this evening at Kempton. The most interesting event at Lingfield is the 2 miles handicap at 15.35 CET. Right Option (John Flint/ Tolley Dean) showed easily his best form when winning last time out over this trip at Kempton and can score again. Top-weight Greenwich Meantime (Patrick Donaghy), whose trainer Alan King has an excellent strike rate on the flat, is an obvious danger, while consistent Baan (High Collingridge/ Jimmy Quinn) is likely to run into a place for the sixth time in succession. Several trainers and jockeys are also in action at Kempton´s evening meezting, where the class 2 handicap over 1 mile 3 furlongs at 21.20 is easily the best flat race of the day . Robby Bobby (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) gave the smart Kandidate a good race at Southwell on Sunday and should go close, but previously he was only a narrow winner from Emerald Wilderness (Alan KIng/Jamie Spencer) at Lingfield. The later did not get the run of the race that day and can be fancied here to reverse the form on 3 lbs better terms. Grand Passion (Chris Wall/ George Baker) was fifth on that occasion, but has been dropped in the weights and if this 9yo can get back to his old form, he would be a danger to all.

N.H. racing at Southwell and Taunton

Southwell stages one of its rare jumps meetings today and has been rewarded by the presence of top jockeys Robert "Choc" Thornton and Tony McCoy, both of whom should be among the winners. "Choc" can win the novice chase at 16.00 CET on West End Rocker, making the most of the 10 lbs he receives from main danger Shining Gale (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) and can follow up with hurdling debutante Valley of Dolls in the mares novice hurdle half an hour later, both for trainer Alan King. Easily the best race is the highly competitive 2 1/2 mile handicap hurdle at 17.00. German-bred Backbord (Lucy Wadham/ Dominic Elsworth), last seen winning a novice chase in early November, has an obvious chance, but needs the ground to dry out further. Theatre Belle (Chris Grant/ Campbell Gillies), Doubly Guest (Nicky Henderson/ Felix de Giles) and Another Brother (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy) have chances, but our choice is Along the Nile (Keith and James Reveley), whose latest form was given a big boost yesterday, McCoy´s best chance probably lies with Henrietta Knight´s Minella Theatre in the 3 mile maiden hurdle at 17.30. Jockey stars on view at Taunton include Ruby Walsh, who has some promising rides for Paul Nicholls, best of which could be R re Rien Sivola in the novice handicap hurdle at 16.50. However Tim Vaughan´s Ski Sunday (Seamus Durack) showed much improved form to win at hereford on Sunday and with a 7 lbs penalty can score again. David Pipe, whose stable is now in excellent form, saddles 3 runners in the novice hurdle at 15.50, but Ronaldo des Mottes (Timmy Murphy), who overcame problems in running to win easily at Sandown on Friday, looks the best of them; he can concede the weight to Summery Justice (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) and French import Nictory Note (Nicholls/ Walsh). Venetia should not go home empty-handed as German-bred Limerick Boy (Walter Biddick) stands out in the hunter chase at 17.20 and looks the best thing of the day.

Wolverhampton today

The only flat racing in Britain today is on the all-weather track at Wolverhampton, where there are some large fields. Easily the best race is the class 2 handicap over 6 furlongs at 17.40 CET, which looks very tricky with 11 runners, all of whom can be given a chance at their best. Mark Johnston continues in good form, and his only runner on the card Nightjar (Greg Fairley) clearly demands respect, having won 3 of his last 5 races, but all his best form is at Southwell, and the same goes for cult veteran Pawan (Ann Stokell). Mrs. Penny (Jeremy Gask/ Chris Catlin) as a CD winner last time out and looks an improver, but she is moving up in grade. The safest option seems to be front-runner Tamagin (Kevin Ryan/ Jamie Spencer), who always runs his race. The 7 furlongs handicap at 16.10 is also wide open. Top-weight Cornus (Alan McCabe/ James Doyle) is on a hat-trick, but it is not certain that he can give weight to Ravi River (Tom Dascombe/ Richard Kingscote), who is coming back to form, and especially to Clive Brittain´s Mudish (Robert Winston), who won at Southwell last time despite hanging right across the track, and whose trainer is having a good run.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Fraizer - Nordic Light - Mr Loire
2. Race: Nawaaff - Inka Dancer - Interchoice Star
3. Race: Mudhish - Cornus - Ravi River
4. Race: Sabre Light - New Star - Blacktoft
5. Race: Komreyev Star - Piermarini - Turkish Sultan
6. Race: Tamagin - Nightjar - Orpenindeed
7. Race: Ardent Prince - Pab Special - Herbert Crescent
8. Race: John Potts - Comeintothespace - Carry On Cleo

German runners at Cagnes-sur-mer

The Cagnes-sur-mer meeting is coming to a close and today gives two German trainers the chance to improve their record here - Werner Baltromei (three winners so far, well below expectations) and Pavel Vovcenko (two wins so far). Baltromei saddles Australian Airline (Dominique Boeuf) in the 3yo handicap over 2150 metres at 14.35, and the colt, who has twice run well here, can finally get off the mark today. Vovcenko runs the unreliable Salon Turtle (Julien Augé) in a 2000 metres handicap on fibresand at 17.35. The 10yo, who runs in the popular colours of Stall onextwo, was an expensive flop last time, but is always capable of winning off this handicap rating.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Senteur Bleue - Salsarides - Skruton
2. Race: Ticfarin - Frantz De Galais - Australian Airline
3. Race: Papi Fernand - Indian City - Pirate Bere
4. Race: Champe A Volonte - Trendy Queen - Cold
5. Race: Roi Dana - Green Pride - Keulinn
6. Race: Mister Flash - Searay - Golden Irish
7. Race: Nummenor - Caprier - Cartesio
8. Race: Le Martinez - Triumvirat - Rudolph

Carlisle, Market Rasen and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

For a change, there is a full Monday programme today, with jumps racing from Market Rasen and Carlisle and 8 races (all class 5 or 6) on the all-weather track at Wolverhampton. It could well be significant that Tony McCoy makes the long journey to Carlisle, where he has two rides for owner JP McManus and trainer Jonjo O´Neill. While Johns Square has made little impact so far, he is not totally without a chance in the handicap chase at 15.15 CET, as the opposition is very weak, but McCoy´s main hope is undoubtedly Rate of Knots in the mares novice chase at 15.50. German-bred Tacinja (Roger Curtis/ Mark Bradburne) could be the one for the forecast. The main event here is the 3 1/2 mile handicap chase at 17.30. With the ground certain to be very testing, this will be a gruelling affair. Veteran Huka Lodge (Kate Walton/ Richard McGrath), Rosie All Over (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) and Bellaney Jewel (John Quinn/ James Halliday) are three that should handle the conditions. At M arket Rasen, Venetia Williams, who is having a great run, looks the trainer to follow, and she can win the two main events with Aachen, who made a very convincing start to his hurdling career 11 days ago, in the novice hurdle at 16.45, and Carrickboy in the handicap hurdle at 17.20; he was also an easy winner last time, but is moving up in grade. Sam Thomas rides them both and could be in for a successful afternoon. The less said about Wolverhampton´s card the better, but Jamie Spencer travels there for two rides for trainer Gay Kelleway, and could score on them both - Bobski in the 9 furlongs seller at 16.35 and Singleb in the 7 furlongs handicap at 18.40.

3 graded jumps races in Navan

The Irish N.H. track at Navan stages one of its best cards of the year today, with 3 graded races, all of which could have some bearing on Cheltenham´s N.H. festival, which starts 3 weeks tomorrow. This meeting was originally scheduled for yesterday, but was put back for a day in order to stage the big Leopardstown fixture, abandoned a week ago, on the Sunday. The 2 mile novice chase at 15.10 CET features several Cheltenham entries, including top-weight Northern Alliance (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) and Shazand (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara), both of whom fell last time out, as well as Made in Tapian (Tom Mullins/ Davy Russell) and Majestic Concorde (Dermot Weld/ Barry Geraghty). Any of them could win now, but top flat trainer Weld does very well with his few jumpers and his entry is a narrow choice.

The hurdle race over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 15.45 should see a German-bred winner, as Catch me (O´Grady/ McNamara) and Aitmatov (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry), despite giving weight away, stand out here. In each case, connections are not sure which race to go for at the big meeting, and today´s event, over a middle distance, may provide some clues. The 3 mile novice chase at 16.50 seems to be less informative as far as Cheltenham is concerned; Siegemaster (Dessie Hughes/ Davy Russell), Dashing George (Eric McNamara/ Paddy Flood) and Equus Maximus (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) are all decent performers but will have to show improved form if they are up to playing a major role at the festival. The last-named is the most likely to be able to achieve this, and can continue the excellent run of trainer and jockey.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Fistoulig - Crerum - Mythical Prince
2. Race: Made In Taipan - Majestic Concorde - Northern Alliance
3. Race: Catch Me - Aitmatov - Footy Facts
4. Race: Asigh Pearl - Beckett Rock - Just Friends
5. Race: Siegemaster - Dashing George - Equus Maximus
6. Race: An Innocent Man - Solstice Knight - Scolboa Music Man
7. Race: The Biscuit Club - Last Draw - Blazing Light

Plenty of Cheltenham clues at Leopardstown

Today´s Leopardstown card, including several top races carried forward from last week´s abandoned meeting, should provide plenty of clues for Cheltenham´s N.H. festival, which starts 3 weeks on Tuesday. Unfortunately the Grade One novice hurdle at 15.15 CET has been severely weakened by the news that likely favourite Hurricane Fly is lame and will miss the race. However his trainer Willie Mullins has a strong substitute in Cousin Vinny (Paul Townend), and Pandorama (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) looks easily the best of his 3 opponents. The main feature is the Grade One Hennessy Conac Gold Cup at 16.50 with 6 runners, with Neptune Collonges (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) the warm favourite. He was third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, but fell when still leading here at Christmas in the Lexus Chase, where The Listener (Nick Williams/ Andrew McNamara) was an early faller. He has a good record here, while Notre Pere (Jim Dreaper/ Andrew Lynch), winner of the Welsh Grand National last ti me, looks the best of the Irish hopes. The Grade One novice chase at 15.45 looks quite open. Trafford Lad (Eamonn Sheehy/ Tom Doyle) finished well in front of Tranquil Sea (Edward O´Grady/ AndrewMcNamara) in November, but had been behind him earlier while Cooldine (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) and Forpadydeplasterer (Tom Cooper/ Barry Geraghty) are also serious contenders. Mourad (Mullins/ Walsh) and Jumbo Rio (O´Grady/ McNamara) fought out a furious finish at Punchestown last time, which ended with a short-head victory but subsequent disqualification for Jumbo Rio. Now they meet again in the Grade Two 4yo hurdle at 14.10, but possibly Ebadiyan (Oliver Brady/ Joe Cullen), third then but an impressive winner of his last 2 races, could now prove too strong for the both of them.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Ebadiyan - Mourad - Jumbo Rio
2. Race: Shirley Casper - Coscorrig - Savitha
3. Race: Hurricane Fly - Cousin Vinny - Pandorama
4. Race: Cooldine - Trafford Lad - Forpadydeplasterer
5. Race: Kennel Bridge - Flag Of Honour - Splurge
6. Race: Neptune Collonges - Notre Pere - The Listener
7. Race: Carronhills - Lydon House - Agus A Vic
8. Race: Sicilian Secret - Residencia - Chargen

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

With Sedgefield abandoned, Hereford now stages the only jumps racing in Britain today and most of the top jockeys will be there, notably Tony McCoy and Robert Thornton, who should both be among the winners. The best race is the novice chase over 2 miles 3 furlomgs at 17.10 CET; there are only 5 runners, but all can boast decent form. Oh Crick (Alan King/ Thornton) is unbeaten in two starts here and is clearly to be respected, while Oscar Bay (Jimmy Frost/ Seamus Durack) is arguablöy the best horse in the small fied, but has to give weight away to all the others. McCoy´s mount Soixante (Henrietta Knight) is of interest, but the likeliest winner is Tamadot (Philip Hobbs/ Rhys Flint), an easy winner last time out. Phoudamour (Jonjo O`Neill/ McCoy) and Pterodactyl (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) both fell last time, but still look contenders for the novice hurdle at 16.10.

David Pipe´s stable is in great form, and he introduces an interesting newcomer in Nice Style (Tom Scudamore) in the opening 4yo maiden hurde at 15.10. He was the best rated of these on the flat and can defeat Black Jacari (King/ "Choc"), who has already been runner-up several times but does not appear to relish a battle. German-bred Figurita (Charlie Mann/ Mr.P. Toole) has agood each-way chance in the mares handicap hurdle at 16.40, the best betting race on the card. Consistent Patlesotho (King/ "Choc") is the one to beat, but Joli Classical (Ron Hodges/ Harry Skelton) could be an interesting long-shot.

At Southwell, the two best races have only 4 runners each, but still look quite tricky. The 6 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 16.30 has 3 last-time-out CD winners, and Amngel Song (Sir Mark Prescott/ Stephen Donohoe), who created a positive impression when winning here on her debut, could be the answer. The class 2 handicap over 11 furlongs half an hour later also has 3 last-time-out winners in the field, of whom Robby Bobby (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley) could possibly come out on top. But the interesting one here is top-weight Kandidate (Clive Brittain/ Robert Winston), who was a total flop last time. However at his best he is clearly superior to these opponents, and with the stable now in better form, should be given another chance.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Black Jacari - Nice Style - Rileyev
2. Race: Rapid Increase - Omme Antique - Raysrock
3. Race: Phoudamour - Pterodactyl - Bugsy`S Boy
4. Race: Parlesotho - Double Hit - Figurita
5. Race: Tamadot - Oh Crick - Oscar Bay
6. Race: Asturienne - Daring Origyn - Wishfull Thinking



Betting forecast:
1. Race: Stash - The Cuckoo - La Capriosa
2. Race: This Ones For Eddy - Punching - Calmdownmate
3. Race: Angel Song - Premier Lad - Fesko
4. Race: Formation - Robby Bobby - Best Prospect
5. Race: Air Maze - Lyric Art - Destinationunknown
6. Race: General Tufto - Afton View - Betteras Bertie

N.H. racing at Utoxeter, Wincanton and Gowran Park (Ireland)

The three other N.H. meetings also have abive average cards, and pride of place goes to te Kingwell Hurdle at 15.50 CET at Wincanton, an important Champion Hurdle trial. Punjabi (Nicky Hemnderson/ Barry Geraghty) and Songe (Charlie Longsdon/ Tom Siddall) are the best on ratings here, but it is not certain that they can give weight to such smart performers as Ashkazar (David Pipe/ Timmy Murphy) and Takeroc (Paul Nicholls/ Christian Williams), while Whiteoak (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) could be the jokerbin the pack despite a long lay-off.

In Ireland, Gowra Park had two Grade Twi races on the card. The 2 1/2 mile chase at 15.10 should go to Glenfinn Captain (To,m Taaffe/ Mark walsh), very unlucky last time, who can defeat the oldtimers Watson Lake (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) and Central House (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood). The 2 mile hurdle race at 16.40 should mainly concern Clopf (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) and German-bred Jazz Messenger (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry), but the most interesting runner of therday for the Meade/ Carberry combination is Nicanor, whi has been off the track for 3 years - since inflicting defeat on Denman at Cheltenham in 2006- and now reappears in the beginners chase at 16.10.

Best race at Uttoexeter is the 2 mile handicap chase at 15.50; Marodima (Rebecca Curtis/ Rhys Flint) is the class act here, but has a huge weight to shoulder, and Tidal Fury (Howard Johnson/ Graham Lee!), in receipt of 24 lbs, looks a big danger.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Fiendish Flame - Paddy Live - A French Horse
2. Race: Villochely - Mceldowney - Silver Steel
3. Race: Naughty By Nature - Mars Rock - Bewery Man
4. Race: Marodima - Tidal Fury - Coach Lane
5. Race: Smoothly Does It - Take The Breeze - Make Haste
6. Race: Orki Des Aigles - Twilight Eagle - Maori Legend
7. Race: Queen Poline - Little Lord West - Guydus



Betting forecast:
1. Race: More The Merrier - Painter Man - Petroupetrov
2. Race: Punjabi - Songe - Ashkazar
3. Race: Charity Lane - Midnight Chase - Khachaturian
4. Race: Tarateeno - Doctored - Classic Chic
5. Race: Fistral Beach - Penn Da Benn - Stripe Me Blue
6. Race: Shamari - In Vino - High Carol



Betting forecast:
1. Race: Glenfinn Captain - Watson Lake - Hear The Echo
2. Race: Mustangsallyrally - Dromin Hill Echo - Whatever Next
3. Race: Nicanor - Bringbackthebiff - Wins Now
4. Race: Jazz Messenger - Clopf - Solwhit
5. Race: Art Sleuth - Fool`s Wildcat - Timari
6. Race: Whinstone Boy - Prudent Honour - Conem
7. Race: Glenlo Abbey - Inside Shadow - Sainte Baronne

Ascot: small fields but top quality

Quality not quantity is the feature of Ascot´s high class card today, with only 4 runners in the two top events, the Grade 2 novice chase over 3 miles at 14.05 CET and the Grade One 2 3/4 mile chase at 15.15. In the former event, all 4 entries are Cheltenham possibles and we give slight preference to front-runner Carruthers (Mark Bradstock/ Mattie Batchelor) over Breedsbreeze (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), who is unbeaten in 3 starts this season. In the latter event, Vor por Ustedes (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) is clear favourite, but faces strong opposition from Gwanako (Nicholls/ Walsh) and Tamarinbleu (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore), who flopped in the King Gweorge but whose previous form looks pretty smart. German-btred Wendel (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) has made a positive impression and can take the novice hurdle at 15.45, while the handicap hurdle at 14.40, also over 2 1/2 miles, is the big bettiong race of the day. In a wide open race, Belcantista (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Joh nson) is our tentative suggestion; the admirable Lough Derg (Pipe/ Scu) can never be discounted, but faces a stiff task giving lumps of weight away all round, while the unbeaten Dave´s Dream (Nicky Henderson/ Felix de Giles) and American Trilogy (Nicholls/ Walsh) are others for the short list.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Breedsbreeze - Carruthers - Ballyfitz
2. Race: Belcantista - Dave`S Dream - American Trilogy
3. Race: Voy Por Ustedes - Tamarinbleu - Gwanako
4. Race: Wendel - Chariot Charger - Doctor Pat
5. Race: Santia - Pelican Point - Kahsabelle
6. Race: Consigliere - Baseball Ted - Vinmix De Bessy
7. Race: Western Leader - Jau - Vino Griego

Cheltenham trials also at Haydock

A hig-class card also at Haydock, where the most interesting races comes ri ght at the start- the Grade One hurdle over 3 miles 1 furlong at 14.20 CET. World Hurdle favourite Kasbah Bliss (Francois Doumen/ Christophe Pieux) and Duc de Regniere (Nicky Henderson/ Tony McCoy) are the ones to beat here, but they have to give weight to some useful opponents. The novice hurdle over the same trip at 15.55 should also provide Cheltenham clues, and Massatoit (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) and Tarablaze (Philip Hobbs/ Tony McCoy) should dominate here. The valuable handicap chase over 3 1/2 miles at 14.40 is more of a Grand National trial, although 2008 winner Comply or Die is a non-runner. This is still wide open, and our short list includes Trevor Hemmings´ two runners Coe ((Sue Smith/ Richard McGrath) and Glasker Mill (Henrietta Knight/ Dominic Elsworth), as well as Mon Mome (Venetia Williams/ Walter Biddick), and Cornish Sett (Paul Nicholls/ Nick Scholfield) and Sherwoods Folly(Henry Daly/ Seamus Durack), second and fifth respectively last time in the Welsh Grand Natiopnal.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Kasbah Bliss - Duc De Regniere - Sweetheart
2. Race: Sherwoods Folly - Character Building - Coe
3. Race: Stow - Resounding Glory - Indian Groom
4. Race: Massasoit - Tarablaze - Jaunty Journey
5. Race: Inchidaly Rock - Heathcliff - Pennek
6. Race: Just Smudge - Sovereign King - Saphir Des Bois
7. Race: Le Duc - Border Fusion - Herecomestanley

Full programme today

For almost the first time this year, there are no abandonments and thus a full programme of 8 meetings in Britain and Ireland today: 4 N.H. meetings in Britain and one in Ireland, and 3 all-weather flat meetings. Although the weather is now finally improving, the going will be heavy everywhere. With only 3 1/2 weeks to Cheltenham, this is almost the last chance for trainers to give their Cheltenham hopes a race before the big meeting, and numerous festival hopes from such trainers as Nicholls, Pipe, Henderson and King will be in action today. Punters are advised to check for non-runners before placing their bets, as a quite a few horses have double entries today.

Baltromei at Salon-de-Provence

Werner Baltromei has not been as successful as hoped at the winter meeting at Cagnes-sur-mer, despite another winner - his third- on Wednesday, and today he sets his sights somewhat lower by running two horses at the provincial Salon-de-Provence meeting. They are Balladur, who runs over 3300 metres at 14.35, and Paarl over 1800 metres at 16.35. Both will be ridden by Dominique Boeuf; although they ran disappointingly at Cagnes last week, they meet lesser opposition here and should both finish in the money.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Best Timing - Palosanto - Mymya
2. Race: Fulgence - Balladur - Girofolo
3. Race: Vayla - Stern Dancer - Maybe Me
4. Race: Hanouka - Carlights - Call Me White
5. Race: Indianel - La Yarada - Peace Salsa
6. Race: La Saint Annaise - Kasali - Cosmoledo
7. Race: Comte Ryal - Pivon - Lizard Dream

N.H. racing at Sandown and Fairyhouse (Ireland)

Sandown stages a good card today, and although the fields are not huge, it is quite possible that some Cheltenham contenders will be on show. This applies particularly to the 4yo hurdle which opens the card at 15.05 CET. 4 of the 8 runners are previous winners, including Torpichen (David Pipe/ Tony McCoy) and James de Vassy (Nick Williams/ Darryl Jacob), both impressive winners of their only start, while French raider True Blue Saga (Francois Doumen/ Tom Scudamore) was a good second to the smart Starluck on his previous trip to England and could also be Cheltenham-bound. The novice hurdle at 16.45 also looks interesting. Pipe´s Ronaldo des Mottes (Timmy Murphy) has been in the first two on his last 5 starts, but Alan King´s pair Awesome George (Charlie Huxley) and German-bred Sadler´s Star (Wayne Hutchinson) could be dangerous, especially the latter, whoi showed much improved form last time out. Te main event is theoretically the Royal Artillery Gold Cup for members of the ar med forces, ad once the favourite race of the late QQueen Mother, but this is now a shadow of its previous self and Bannister Lane (Donald McCain/ Capt. Edwards) should not be troubled to defeat hat-trick-seeking Mr. Big (Charlie Mann/ Capt. wallace) if the ratings are to be trusted. A very interesting German-bred also runs in the rescheduled Irish meeting at Fairyhouse, Arrak (Kieran Cotter/ Andrew Lynch) in the maiden hurdle at 14.40. This one time big hope for Scjlenderhan and Fabre has been off the track for 17 months, but if anywhere near fit must go close here. Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh continue in great form, two more winners yesterday, and can score with Uiumhiraceathair at 15.10, and Ruby can go on to complete a double with Oscar Time for Martin Lynch in the novice chase at 16.50. He has been placed on his last 6 starts and receives 6lbs from the previous winners in the large field.

All-weather action at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

Two more all-weather meetings this afternoon, but as usual the cards are not exciting and the better races have only small fields. The two class 4 handicaps at Lingfield have only 5 runners each, and they can go to the last-time-out winnersTartan Gunna (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), a 6 lengths maiden winner last time, in the mile race at 16.55, and Distinctly Game (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan) over 6 furlongs at 17.30. Johnston can also take the 10 furlongs maiden for 3yo´s at 15.15 with Badge of Honour (Greg Fairley), narrowly beaten last time. At Wolverhampton in-form trainer Alan McCabe and jockey Robert Winston can land a double with Capricorn Run in the 7 furlomgs handicap at 17.05 - although this is a very open race- and Incomparable, who looks weighted to reverse earlier form with Whiskey Creek (Chris Dwyer/ Barry McHugh) in the 5 furlongs handicap at 17.40. Those looking for a topical tip for Friday the 13th can go for Triskaidephobia (Jennie Tooth/ Tom Queally) in the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.25.

Catterick and Fakenham abandoned

Today´s N.H. meetings at Catterick and Fakenham have been abandoned, but there is still jumps racing at Sandown and also at Fairyhouse in Ireland (a rearranged meeting from earlier in the week). It is also quite likely that some of tomorrow´s N.H. meetings will have to be called off, but it seems that the big meeting at Ascot is safe. With the weather now improving slightly, prospects for next week look brighter.

All-weather action at Kempton and Southwell

Once again Kempton´s evening meeting has been moved forward to the afternoon, a sensible decision which means that there are two all-weather fixtures, Kempton and Southwell, this afternoon. In our view the best bet at Kempton is Sir Mark Prescott´s Cecily (Stephen Donohoe) in the 5 furlong handicap for 3yo´s at 15.55 CET. She landed a big gamble for the stable last June over this distance on turf, and her two recent starts have been over 6 furlongs, so a return to this trip should be just right. The 2 mile handicap at 17.05 is quite tricky, as few of the runners have recent winning form to their credit. The exception is Mission Control (James Boyle/ Martin Dwyer) and he can win his 3rd race from his last 4 starts; They all Laughed (Paul Hiatt/ Luke Morris) was staying on well when 3rd at Lingfield on Tuesday and looks the main danger. At Southwell there are some small fields, and Lady Longcroft (Jeff Pearce/ Jimmy Quinn) looks a near-certainty to beat her 3 opponents in the 1 1/2 mile maiden race at 15.25. She has been runner-up on all her 3 starts so far and although now stepping up in trip looks invincible in this company. Only 5 run in the claiming race over the same trip at 16.00, and Nawamees (David Evans/ Paul Doe), who won over this CD 16 days ago, can confirm the form with Rawdon (Gay Kelleway/ Kylie Manser), a winner since. The best betting race here is the 5 furlongs handicap at 16.35. Trainer Ron Harris holds a strong hand here with super-consistent Back in the Red (Kevin Ghunova) and Spic´n Span (Joe Fanning), but we prefer Replicator (Pat and Paul Eddery), now back to his best distance.

N.H. racing in Wales and Ireland

Today´s Scottish N.H. meeting at Kelso has been abandoned, but there could still be jumps racing at Chepstow (where another inspection is due later) and Thurles is certain to go ahead. The ground there is bound to be very testing, and the most interesting feature is that Ruby Walsh has four mounts here for trainer Wille Mullins. This is the most powerful combination in Irish jumps racing, and no doubt there will be some success today. Tawaagg has a chance in the opening maiden hurdle at 14.55 CET, although Power of Attorney (Mouse Morris/ Niall madden) looks hard to beat here, and Palace Merano in another maiden hurdle at 16.05, where Lord Lansdown (Gordon Elliott/ Paul Carberry) is the main danger. The most likely winner for the Mullins/ Walsh team is course specialist Templers Hall in the 2 1/4 mile handicap chase at 17.05, but Cru also has a good chance in the mares beginners chase half an hour later. Should racing go ahead at Chepstow, where the ground is still frozen in places, then the two best races are the class 2 handicap chases at 16.20 and 16.55. Course specialist Presenting Copper (Philip Hobbs/ Tom O´Brien) is the likely favourite in the former event, although top-weight Something Wells (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) could be dangerous, while Hobbs and O´Brien have another live chance in the later race with Notabotheronme, who has top-weight The Sawyer (Bob Buckler/ Wayne Kennedy) as his main competitor.

Dubai Racing Carnival

The Dubai Racing Carnival continues today with another high c lass card featuring 7 competitive and valuable races, 5 on dirt and two on turf. The two most important events are both on dirt, and pride of place goes to the UAE 2,000 Guineas at 19.05 CET. This event has been dominated in recent years by two trainers, Saeed bin Suroor and Mike de Kock, and today´s running should again see these trainers taking most of the prize-money; in fact they supply 5 of the 10 runners. The Godolphin team seem to have the strongest cards, and their high-class U.S. import Vineyard Haven (Ted Durcan) is undoubtedly one of the most interesting runners, so it seems significant that Frankie Dettori has chosen to partner recent course winner Desert Party, who holds his stable companion Regal Ransom (Daragh O´Donoghue). Mike de Kock´s two runners Blues and Rock (Johnny Murtagh) and Rocks Off (Kevin Shea) are no back numbers, but Saeed bin Suroor appears to hold the aces here. However de Kock and Shea can take the 5 1/2 furlongs race at 18.30 with the high-class JJ the Jet Plane, who has won his last 5 races. Despite his Group One penalty, he should outclass today´s opposition en route to challenging for the Golden Shaheen on Dubai World Cup day.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Warsaw - Green Coast - Blue Sky Basin
2. Race: Yamal - Naples - Jonquil
3. Race: Art Of War - Familiar Territory - Glen Nevis
4. Race: City Style - Jose Adan - Jargelle
5. Race: J J The Jet Plane - Star Crowned - Force Freeze
6. Race: Desert Party - Regal Ransom - Vineyard Haven
7. Race: Kirklees - Galactic Star - Barbaricus

Baltromei tries again at Cagnes-sur-mer

Werner Baltromei´s Cagnes-sur-mer expedition this year has not been nearly as successful as was the case a year ago, but he tries again today with 6 runners at the Riviera course, where once again all races will be run on the fibresand track. Samiro (Dominique Boeuf) is expected to run well in the opening tiercé handicap over 2400 metres at 12.50, but this is a really tough race with 16 runners. Marito (Boeuf) runs in the conditions race for 3yo´s over 2000 metres at 14.20, but the opposition here looks very strong and is headed by Validor (Henri-Alex Pantall/ Fabrice Veron). Journey Time (Boeuf) looks to have a better chance in the second division of the 2400 metres handicap for 4yo´s at 14.50, while Amuse Gueule (Boeuf) and Stillbai (Koen Clijmans) both run under the Sid-Ali Ghoumrassi banner in the claiming race for 3yo´s at 15.20. Possibly the best chance of a German sccess is in the 2000 metres claimer at 15.50. Song of Tiger (Baltromei/ Boeuf), who has been disappointin g so far, drops into this grade for the first time, but the selection on recent form must be Naranja (Pavel Vovcenko/ Thierry Thulliez), who has already won twice at this meeting.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Samiro - Go For Gold Mine - Natural Leader
2. Race: Tonalite - Hatama - Famous
3. Race: Tehamana - Centdixhuit - Kalgreen
4. Race: Dr No - Validor - Saint Quentin
5. Race: Distant Far - Blue Gin - Reve de Frida
6. Race: Della Wish - Granthor - Tessalha
7. Race: Naranja - Low Budget - Song Of Tiger
8. Race: Salinete - Rain Of Melody - Genereuse Gold

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

once again, the all-weather tracks are keeping the show going, and there are two afternoon meetings today, Lingfield and Kempton (switched from the evening). At Lingfield, the well-bred Prairie Hawk (Tim Vaughan/ Tom Eaves) seems certain to start a hot favourite for the 2 miles handicap at 15.10CET after a very easy win at Wolverhampton on Saturday over two furlongs shorter, for which he must carry only a fixed penalty of 6 lbs. German-bred Safin (Roger Curtis/ Graham Gibbons) stays well and should run into a place. Another german-bred with chances here is Artreju (Gary Moore/ Tom Queally) in the 10 furlongs handicap at 17.40. He has been very disappointing on his recent starts, but with the stable in great form and a new jockey now on board, he could correct that today. Dance and Dance (Eddie vaughan/ Jim Crowley) has been placed on bith his 2009 starts, so has an obvious chance in the 3yo maiden at 15.40, but Andrew Balding´s Cloudesley (Martin Dwyer) hinted at ability las t year and may be a better bet at the likely odds. Karl Burke and his jockey Darren Williams are in hoit water again, but could have some relief with the consistent Electric Warrior in the mile claimer at 16.10, who appears to have only Teasing (Jeff Pearce/ Robert Havlin) to beat. At Kempton also, the claimer (over 7 furlons at 15.35) has only 5 runners, and despite top-weight this should go to Jake the Snake (Tony Carroll/ Amy Baker), whose latest form has been well boosted. The 1 1/2 mile handicap at 16.35 is the best betting race here. Dishdasha (Alison Thorpe/ Shane Kelly) is in great form and is one for the short list, as is Sheer Fantastic (Pat Haslam/ Patrick Donaghy), but we fancy that Andrew Balding might complete an across-the-card double here with the German-bred 9yo Corriolanus, who used to be much better than this and for whom the promising apprentice Richard Rowe has been booked. The 3yo handicap over 6 furlongs at 17.05 looks between Kheley (;ark Brisbourne/ Liam Jones), winner of 3 of her 4 starts this year, including this CD, and Princess Cagliari (Richard Hannon/ Pat Dobbs), who has been runner-up three times running, including twice in a photo-finish, and deserves a change of luck,.

Fairyhouse and Leicester abandoned, Musselburgh inspection

Today´s N.H. meetings at Leicester and Fairyhouse (Ireland) have been abandoned, but there is still a slight chance that the Scottish fixture at Musselburgh can go ahead. Two inspections have proved inconclusive, but another inspection will be held later this morning; the weather is improving, so there is still a chance that racing will get the green light. However more abandonments are certain in the next few days; while the heavy snow- and rainfall of the past few days is now easing, the danger is overnight frost, which is forecast for most areas, and almost all racecourses with N.H. fixtures this week are calling for inspections before racing can go ahead.

Tony McCoy - 3000 winners and still going strong

Amid all the gloom it is a pleasure to report one piece of positive news - yesterday at Plumpton Tony McCoy rode the 3,000th jumps winner of his career, setting a standard which will probably never be equalled (except by himself). This is really an amazingly impressive feat, one of the greatest ever in racing worldwide, and McCoy is now setting his sights on 4,000. He has been champion jockey in the U.K. for the past 13 years and is certain to be champion again this year and for the foreseeable future.

All-weather action at Lingfield and Southwell

With all jumps racing off, it is again left to the all-weather tracks to keep the action alive, and this afternoon we have racing from Lingfield and Southwell. Easily the best event is the listed race over 10 furlongs at 16.40 CET at Lingfield. Unfortunately there are only 5 runners, and strictly speaking, only two of them are listed class - Dansant (Ger Butler/ George Baker) and Suits Me (Tom Tate/ Micky Fenton). If form and ratings mean anything, then Dansant has to win this as he easily accounted for Suits Me over this CD before Christmas and is now only one pound worse off. The other 3 runners are all trained by Mick Channon, who is in good form, and the best of them is probably Rio Guru (Tony Culhane), but it requires quite a feat of the imagination to think that he can win here. On the undercard, German-bred Princess Flame (Brendan Powell/ Kylie Manser) can defy top-weight in the 1 mile 5 furlongs handicap at 17.10. She won 5 races last year, including twice over hurdl es, and goes well for this rider. At Southwell, the most interesting runner is Barney Curley´s Aviso (Andrew Stringer/ Tom Queally), who has top-weight in the mile handicap at 16.20. He has been well beaten in both his British starts, and the handicapper has reacted by dropping him to 85. He was rated 111 in Germany in 2007, wheh he won the Mehl-Mülhens-Rennen for Gestüt Schlenderhan, so if he could run to anywhere that form today, he could be expected to defeat this opposition, which is headed by Torch of Freedom (Sir Mark Prescott/ Stephen Donohoe) and McConnell (Gary Moore/ Fergus Sweeney). With this stable of course, one never knows, but they pulled off a similar feat last week with Tusculum and may well bring off the double today. Otherwise we expect Ingleby Arch (David Barron/ Tom Eaves) and Esprit de Corps (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan), both easy winners last week over this CD, to score again at 16.50 and 17.20 respectively.

Green light for Plumpton

Plumpton has passed an early morning inspection and racing goes ahead, though the ground will be very testing. This is good news for all N.H. fans, and in particular for Tony McCoy, who has another chance to reach his 3,000 th winner, and for French trainer Francois Doumen, who has sent over 3 runners from his base at Lamorlaye. McCoy has not ridden a winner for 11 days, but this is mainly due to the fact that most of the meetings where he was due to ride were abandoned. Today he has 4 good rides, all expected to be among the favourites, and so has a chance of finally riding the 2 winners he needs to reach the magic figure. In the opening 4yo hurdle at 14.20 CET he partners hurdling debutant Excape for Nicky Henderson, and this 3-times winner on the flat for David Elsworth is clearly one for the short list. However on flat form, he is rated slightly inferior to two other debutants First Avenue (Gary and Jamie Moore) and Le Brocquy (Mick Quinlan/ Timmy Murphy), so he is no goo d thing, especially on this ground. Doumen´ s Pour Changer (Tom Scudamore) and Venetia Williams´ Red & White (Aidan Coleman) have already shown they can jump, which could be a big advantage. Doumen´s best chance however should be Millenium Royale (Barry Keniry), who appears to have a simple chance in the novice chase over 3 1/4 miles at 15.35. In our view, McCoy´s best chance lies with Henderson´s Miss Sarenne in the mares novice hurdle at 16.45, who has Doumen´s Quaspia (Keniry) and Pipe´s Ruthenoise (Scudamore) to beat. Restless Artaix, also for Henderson, can possibly ring up the 3,000th winner in the beginners chase at 17.20, while Jim Best´s Hello Moscow also has chances in a very open handicap hurdle at 16.10.