German runners at Deauville

The Deauville meeting is now almost over, but there are some German-trained runners at today´s meeting. Penjabi (Ralf Rohne/ Flavien Prat) goes for the 3000 metres race for 3yo´s at 14.55 while an hour later Mario Hofer´s Savono (Dominique Boeuf) runs in a conditions race over a mile for 3yo´s. Both Germans ar in good form but meet strong opposition. Later on, Sascha Smcrzek has two entries in the 1300 metrs race on the fibresand track at 16.55, Nightdance Honour (Henk Grewe) and Obelix (Christophe Soumillon); this is another tough race and top-weight Salut l´Africain (Robert Collet/ Franck Blondel) is the one to bat.Main event is th listed ace for 2yo´s at 14.25. There are only 5 runners and it looks easy for Godolphin´s Frozen Power, who has won his last 2 races and looks an above-average performer. With Frankie Dettori suspended, Olivier Peslier takes the ride.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Wango - Lufkin Ruffian - Kokouchu
2. Race: Boltcity - Lucky Like - Frozen Power
3. Race: Sagarian - Capellanus - According
4. Race: Campanaca - Itri - Isis De La Vis
5. Race: Skins Game - Savono - Sail of Gold
6. Race: Caraziyan - La Terrible - Chelgui
7. Race: Expensive Detour - Mister Charm - Obelix
8. Race: Fee Des Sables - Queen At Last - Dawara

Hamilton off, but still 4 evening meetings

This evening´s fixture at Hamilton has had to be abandoned, as the track is waterlogged in places. There is however still racing this evening at Bath and Newcastle in England and Down Royal and Wexford in Ireland. At Newcastle, the maiden race at 19.50 should lie between Awesome Surprise (Jeremy Noseda/ Paul Hanagan) and El Ameen (Mark Johnston/ Royston Ffrench) while at Bath, Eddie Ahern looks the jockey to follow; he has several good mounts, the best of which should be Brian Meehan´s 2yo filly Vanishing Grey at 18.40 and John Dunlop´s Persian Memories in the 3yo handicap an hour later.

In Ireland, there is a mixed meting at Down Royal while it´s all jumps racing at Wxford. Most interesting runner at the latter track from the German point of view is Maremotto (Tom Hogan/ Jo Cullen), who runs in the maiden hurdle at 18.35. He has obviously had his problems since running up a four-timer in Germany two years ago, but if he has any ability left, he must have a chance in this company. Ruby Walsh is riding this afternoon in Wales, but if he gets back in time, he can win the beginners chase here at 20.35 on Willie Mullins´ Themoonandsixpence. At Down Royal, Jim Bolger and Danny Mullins can team up to land a double with Sioduil in the 5 furlongs handicap at 19.15 and Lan Sasta in the 2yo maiden at 20.15.

Ffos Las, Newmarket and Thirsk

Today is the official opening of the new Welsh racecourse at Ffos Las, although two meetings (one on the flat, one over jumps) have already been held there, with the track receiving very positive notices. Today´s cards is all-jumping and the two main events are valuable handicaps with 18 runners each. The race at 16.55 CET is over hurdles. There is a strong Irish challenge here and Charlie Swan´ s Valain (Tony McCoy) and Gordon Elliott´s Grand Opera (Ruby Walsh) could be their best hopes. The handicap chase over 3 miles and 1 1/2 furlong at 17.25 has a lopsided look as classy Snoopy Loopy (Peter Bowen/ Seamus Durack), in the colours of track owner Dai Walters, has to give away lumps of weight. He is easily the best horse in the field, but whether he can concede 19 lbs to Hoo la Baloo (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) and 31 lbs to Nostringsattached (Jonjo O´Neill/ Robbie McLernon) remains to be seen.

There is also flat racing this afternoon at Newmarket and Thirsk. The first 5 of the 8 races at Newmarket are for 2yo´s including 4 maidens with large fields. With several well-bred newcomers from top stables (Sir Michael Stoute/ Saeed bin Suroor, John Dunlop, Hannon, Haggas et al) these are races to watch rather than bet on. The best betting race is the 6 furlong handicap at 18.10 with 16 runners; this is wide open but Getcarter (Hannon/ Hughes) is in good form and can possibly complete a hat-trick. The stayers´ handicap at 17.05 also looks tricky, as likely favourite Merchant of Dubai (Alan Swinbank/ Robert Winston) is moving up in trip. Swinbank can also land the stayers´ handicap at 17.15 at Thirsk with Saga de Tercy (Neil Callan), runner-up at York last time and never yet out of the first two. An interesting runner here is our old friend Grudge (Ollie Pears/ JD O´Reilly) in the apprentices handicap over 5 furlongs at 17.45. He has twice been unlucky, but can get back on the winning trail today.

Ayr, Lingfield and Southwell

Once again very poor fare at today´s British meetings. At Lingfield, the first 3 races are on turf and the last 3 on the all-weather. The 2yo maiden on the a.w. at 16.50 CET is possibly the most interesting race. Brian Meehan holds a strong hand here with Rakaan (Martin Dwyer) and Blushing (Dane O´Neill), with obvious preference for the former, while Adele Blanc Sec (Tom Dascombe/ Richard Kingscote) looks the main danger. The 6 furlongs handicap at 17.50 looks very tricky, but we expect one of the3 last-time-out winners, Whisky Junction (Mick Quinn/ Liam Keniry), Tagula Night (Walter Swinburn/ Shane Kelly) or Comadoir (Jo Crowley/ Fergus Sweeney) to come out on top. At Southwell of course all races are on the all-weather.

The 2 mile handicap for 3yo´s at 18.00 is the top race here, and although there are only 6 runners, it looks quite open. Roger Charlton saddled a winner for the Queen yesterday, and possibly Sally Forth (Chris Catlin) can follow up, but we prefer Sir Mark Prescott´s improving Veiled (Seb Sanders). At Ayr, we like the chances of ex-German Raptor (Alan Jarvis/ Andrew Elliott) in the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.40, while Freddie Tylicki, out of luck yesterday, can score on Richard Fahey´s Faithful Ruler over 9 furlongs an hour earlier.

Soumillon sacked!

The big news from France is that the Aga Khan has sacked his long-time stable jockey Christophe Soumillon. The Belgian-born rider has been first jockey for France´s biggest owner-breeder for the past 8 years, during which time he was champion jockey 3 times and also won the "Arc" twice, on Dalakhani and Zarkava, for the Aga Khan. No reasons have been given for the split, which was put down to "personality" clashes. Soumillon will continue to ride for the Aga Khan until the end of 2009. Today he has several rides on a low-level card at Deauville. The only German-trained runner today is Manaba (Werner Baltromei/ Johan Victoire) who faces a stiff task under top-weight in the tiercé handicap over 2000 metrs at 14.25.

Ayr, Catterick, Warwick and Bellewstown (Ireland)

Three flat meetings in the U.K. this afternoon as well as Bellewstown in Ireland, an early evening fixture which is now flat racing only; if conditions permit, tomorrow´s Bellewstown fixture will be N.H. The other Irish meeting, Killarney, itself a rearranged fxture, has been abandoned again.

Freddie Tylicki is in great form and can land a double at Catterick on Richard Fahey´s She´s in the Money in the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.50 CET, and Addison de Witt for Micky Hammond over 1 1/2 miles an hour later; both of them won last time out at Newcastle. At Ayr, where they will be running on the round course for the first time since the pile-up, Jim Goldie could be the trainer to follow and can win the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.10 with German-bred Daring Dream (Daniel Tudhope) and the mile handicap half an hour later with Stellite (Gary Bartley). Ex-Goldene Peitsche runner-up Santiago Atitlan runs in the latter race off a very lenient mark, but is probably best left alone until he shows he is back in form. At Warwick, Godolphin can continue their winning run with German-bred Marine Spirit (Ted Durcan) in the 2yo handicap at 15.30, while Lamh Albasser also has a chance in a tricky conditions race for juveniles at 17.00.

The most intersting event at Bellewstown from the German point of view is the amateur riders race over 1 3/4 miles at 20.45. Nina Carbnerry rides Sweet Wake here for Noel Meade. Sweet Wake won a Group Two at Baden-Baden in 2005, and was then sold to Ireland as a hurdler. He won his first two races but then rather lost his way. He has only run once in the past 2 years but if anywhere near form should make short work of this opposition, easily the best of which is useful hurdler Whatuthink (Oliver McKiernan/ Mr. MB O´Doherty).

Clairefontaine today

Only one German-trained runner at Clairefontaine today, Mario Hofer´s 9yo Kaliyan (Johan Victoire), who runs in a handicap over 3400 metres at 17.25. Kaliyan, in younger days listed class, is no longer very consistent but has dropped to an extremely lenient handicap mark and could run well in this large field, although he would not want any more ran. The card starts with four races over jumps, and the main event is the valuable Grand Steeple-Chase la Ville de Deauville, a valuable handicap over 4500 metres at 15.25. With 18 runners this is very open, but recent CD winner Quondor de Kerser (Pat Quinton/ Jerome Zuliani) seems to be the likely favourite.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Still Loving You - Ningaloo - Kauto Stone
2. Race: Rustic - Grip Tune - Wendy du Berlais
3. Race: Quo Vadis River - Royal Denpasar - Fragante Royale
4. Race: Alpha Speed - Niolo - Laskadoun
5. Race: Ephemere - Flying Warrior - Anaxis
6. Race: Shimla - Dream`s Salsa - Bellona
7. Race: Solaria - Mille Etoiles - Etty`s Diary
8. Race: Lamborgino - Lou Lady - Rabahhla

Southwell (all-weather) and Sedgefield (N.H.) today

Only two very poor cards this afternoon, with the jumps meeting at Sedgefield slightly more interesting than a miserable all-weather card at Southwell. Two interesting German-bred runners at Sedgefield are Andorn (Peter Kirby/ Phil Kinsella) in the opening novice hurdle at 15.15 CET and Safin (Roger Curtis/ Mark Bradburne) in the selling hurdle half an hour later. Andorn was a listed winner at Baden-Baden two years ago, but has shown little since his transfer to England; however he would not need to be anything special to win on his hurdles debut. Opatja and recent flat winner Don Pietro rate the main dangers. Safin is very inconsistent, but certainly capable of winning at this level on a good day. Best bet on the card in our view is My Condor (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) in the 2 mile handicap chase at 16.15. At Southwell the most interesting race is the 2yo maiden at 16.00 with runners from several top stables, including Godolphin´ s debutant Prince of Vasa (Ted Durcan). Wizh th yard going well, he can possibly see off the Johnston, Cole and Hills runners.

Clairefontaine today

The Deauville meeting is gradually running out of steam and today´s card at Clairefontaine is very low level indeed. There are 3 German-trained runners, Tessaiga (Werner Hefter) and Zosime (Nina Bach/ Maxime Guyon) in the mil race for 3yo maidens at 15.10, and Man on Fire (Uwe Stoltefuss/ Stephane Pasquier) in the 1400 metres handicap at 16.10. The oppostion does not look strong, so that all 3 have chances of running into the money.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: J`Assume - Higher Ground - Ski Bohem
2. Race: Queen Charmer - Doun Pearl - Country Chope
3. Race: Barlovento - Allez Bailey - Anabis
4. Race: Libia - Louis`Lover - Fiona Rae
5. Race: Le Cres - Man On Fire - Secret Sacre
6. Race: River Zara - Mantadive - Badalonia
7. Race: Smart And Fun - Key To The Stars - Palmeral
8. Race: Katalana - Milhaarth - Moonson
9. Race: Namestick - Make Second - Venado

Hamilton, Kempton and Windsor

Three afternoon flat meetings in the U.K., with easily the best card at Kempton´s all-weather track. Woth gdol,phin now in top form, and stable jockey Frankie Dettori enjoying a real purple patch, it can be expected that some -if not all- of their four runners here will come home as winners. Debitant Barlamansts the ball rollimg in the 2yo maiden over 6 furlongs at 15.40 CT, with Elusive Trader (Tihad Hannon/ Ryan Moore) the main danger on form. In the mile maiden for 2yo´s half an hour later, Godolphin´s runner Navy List has already shown good form, and Sheikh Hamdan´s debutant Sharayeen (Barry and Richard Hills) tooks the threat here. The main event here is the conditions race over a mile at 16.40 and the Godolphin runner Ashram is best on ratings, but has been slightly disappointing so far this year. So has Chantilly Tiffany (Ed Dunlop/ Seb Sanders), who won twice in BGermany over 7 furlongs last season. If back to that form, she can win this. The final Godolphin runner is Badawi in the 1 1/2 miöl handovap for 3yo´s at 17.40. This one won his only start in very promising style, but has been given quite a stiff mark by the handicapper, and both Pictorial (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) and State Banquet (Hughie Morrison/ Steve Drowne) could prove troublesome. At nearby Windsor, the 2yo mile handicap at 17.00 looks between Flaming Miracle (Andrew Balding/ Martin Dwyer), very unlucky at Salisbury last Friday, and Cherry Bee (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), who has been in the money on all her 4 starts. Balding and Dwyer also have a chance in the 10 furlongs handícap half an hour later with Lady Brora, but Serious Impact (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune) and Special Reserve (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) look dangerous. Racing goes ahead after an early morning inspection at Hamilton, but the ground will be very testing and the quality of racing very poor. Richard Fahey should win the claiming race at 16.20 here with Fishforcompliments (Freddie Tylicki ), with stable companion Sunnyside (Paul Hanagan) the obvious danger.

Today´s racing in the UK and Ireland

The best race in England today is the 2 3/4 mile handicap hurdle at 16.00 CET in Newton Abbot. This is quite a valuable event and has attracted a strong field; no fewer than 7 of the 16 runners have won their last two races (or more). 3 of them are owned by JP McManus, and his retained jockey Tony McCoy has chosen to partner Night Cru, trained by Jonjo O´Neill, in preference to stablemate Englishtown (Noel Fehily) and top-weight Benetwood (Vic Dartnall/ Robbie McLernon), which is a tip in itself. In a very open race, the main dangers could be Corum (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) and Irish raider Dirar (Gordon Elliott/ Seamus Durack). An Irish traider also has chances in Musselburgh´s top race, a 5 furlongs handicap at 17.20; that is Tom McCourt´s Tornadodancer (Freddie Tylicki), has shoulders top-weight here but has been competing in better events. Main threat is rejuvenated 9yo Raccoon (Ruth Carr/ Peter Mcdonald), who has won his last 2 races, both over this CD; runner-ups Hypn osis (Neil Wilson/ Tony Hamilton) and Fivefootnumberone (John Quinn/ Graham Gibbons) reoppose on slightly better terms today. Th main event at Folkestone is a fillies handicap over 10 furlongs at 16.40. For the money on offer this is a very weak race, and Godolphin´s top-weight Assabiyya (Ted Durcan), an easy winner of a Windsor maiden on her only outing so far, may well outclass this opposition. There has been more bad weather in Ireland this week and Ballinrobe´s fixture has been abandoned. However Cork´s mixed meeting goes ahead after an inspection this morning. Raise your Heart (Joanna Morgan/ Berry Geraghty) should win the best jumps race, a 2 1/4 mile hurdle at 15.55, and Just for Mary (David Loughnane/ Rory Cleary) looks the likeliest winner of the 6 furlongs handocap at 18.25.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Mission Control - Tiger O`Toole - Occasionally Yours
2. Race: Just Amazing - King Troy - Mhilu
3. Race: Dirar - Corum - Benetwood
4. Race: Charles Street - Classic Clover - Skipper`S Lad
5. Race: Sagredo - Sadler`S Star - Equity Release
6. Race: Ghizao - Danimix - Yorkshire Knight
7. Race: Pure Faith - Powerfullbeat - Lady Wyndham

Prix Morny at Deauville

Today is one of the most important fixtures of the Deauvulle meeting, but unfortunately the fields have cut up badly and there are very few runners in the big races. Main event is the Group One Prix Morny at 15.50, always one of the best 2yo races of the year, and the field is high class, despite there being only 5 runners. Arcano (Brian Meehan/ Richard Hills) and Canford Cliffs (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) are probably the two best British juveniles of the season so far and are both unbeaten in 2 starts. Zanzibari, trained by André Fabre and ridden by Frankie Dettori, who looks set for a profitable afternoon, looks the best of the French runners. We expect a British winner, but this is a race to watch, not to bet on. The Prix Jean Romanet for 4yo and up fillies and mares over 2000 metres at 16.20 has been promoted to Group One status this year, but the field is not really worth this rating.

The ex-Baltromei Lady Marian (Saeed bin Suroor/ Dettori) would win this if back to her best; she has been well beaten in her 2 starts for Godolphin, but the stable is now in much better form. Alpine Rose (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Gerald Mossé) is clearly the one to beat. There are only 3 runners in the opening Prix Kergorlay over 3000 metres at 14.15 and this should go to another ex-German horse Schiaparelli (Saeed bin Suroor/ Dettori), an easy winner of the Goodwood Cup last time. He is coupled in the betting with Mojave Moon (Fabre/ Guyon), and the consistent Candy Gift (Tony Clout/ Thierry Jarnet) is unlikely to win, but will still pick up some nice prize-money. The Prix de la Nonette for 3yo fillies at 15.20 probably lies betwen the consistent Tamazirte (Jean-Claude Rouget/ Christophe Lemaire) and Proportional (Criquette Head-Maarek/ Stephane Pasquier), rather disappointing so far this year and held on 2009 form. Dettori´s mount Charity Belle, trained by John Gosden, is also in with a chance.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Schiaparelli - Candy Gift - Mojave Moon
2. Race: Spahi - Rajeeva - Balajo
3. Race: Tamazirte - Proportional - Charity Belle
4. Race: Zanzibari - Arcano - Canford Cliffs
5. Race: Alpine Rose - Lady Marian - Synergy
6. Race: Jimalkamo - Bariloch - Neris
7. Race: Peace Of Cake - Greenwich Meantime - Baby`S Memory
8. Race: Gold Exchange - Sird`ouilly - Phoenix King

Irish racing today

There is flat racing this afternoon at Fairyhouse and a mixed meeting (4 flat races, 3 over hurdles) at Cork. There are some good 2yo´s on view at Fairyhouse, where the main event is the Group Two Futurity over 7 furlongs at 17.50 CET, which should go to Aidan O´Brien´s unbeaten Capo Blanco (Johnny Murtagh). O´Brien and his stable jockey can also expect to win the 2yo maiden at 16.35 with debutant Dynasty, who is apparently highly-rated. The valuable Tattersalls Ireland Sales Stakes at 17.20 should go to a British stable, as Richard Hannon´s Dick Turpin (Richard Hughes), unbeaten in 3 races, looks the obvious winner; however In Some Respect (Andrew Oliver/ Pat Smullen) could be a danger in receipt of 7 lbs. John Oxx has 3 runners in the listed race over 1 3/4 miles at 18.50 and the Aga Khan´s Alandi (Mick Kinane) looks the pick of them; Ghimaar (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen), moving up in grade after an easy win at Galway, is the danger. At Cork, we like the look of Gra Gael Mo C hroi (Augustine Leahy/ Joseph O´Brien) in the mile handicap at 15.45, while Jessica Harrington and jockey Robbie Power can land a double over hurdles with No One Tells Me at 18.00 and Boragh Princess half an hour later.

Fairyhouse - betting forecast:
1. Race: Vivien Lee - Positive Event - Our Nana Rose
2. Race: Understood - Onatha - Mirabile Dictu
3. Race: Dynasty - Rock Jock - Global Recovery
4. Race: Dick Turpin - Wisecraic - In Some Respect
5. Race: Cape Blanco - King Ledley - Marfach
6. Race: Good Time Sue - Young Lochinvar - Signore Momento
7. Race: Alandi - Ghimaar - Jazz Messenger

Cork - betting forecast:
1. Race: Captainofthefleet - Mark Twain - What A Charm
2. Race: Coughlans Locke - Ufallya - Storm Averted
3. Race: Haseila - Beauthea - Duaiseoir
4. Race: Final Approach - Final Flashback - Penthesilea Eile
5. Race: Scenic Bay - Spanish Auriga - Flying Rouvres
6. Race: No One Tells Me - Imperial Belle - First Trim
7. Race: Boragh Princess - Kealigolane - Bangonform

Two N.H. meetings today

There is also jumps racing in the U.K. at Newton Abbot this afternoon and Market Rasen this evening. Easily the most valuable race is the 2 miles 5 furlongs handicap chase at 16.05 at Newton Abbot. Paul Nicholls has four entries here, and Ruby Walsh rides Roby de Cimbre, a disappointing favourite last time in the Galway Plate. The ground was against him then, but should be perfect today and he can recover those losses. Keepitsecret (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy), first or second on all recent starts, is the obvious danger, though there is little between him and bottom-weight No Panic (Peter Bowen/ Paddy Brennan) on their latest running. Zafar (Tim Vaughan/ Dan Coleman), who has won 3 times running, is the obvious favourite for the novice hurdle at 18.30 at Market Rasen, but he has a huge weight to carry, and it would be no surprise to see him defeated here by either Overrule (Brian Ellison/ Graham Lee) or debutant Aggravation (David Elsworth/ Oliver Greenall) at these weights.
Newton Abbot - betting forecast:
1. Race: Barizan - Gaily Noble - Gulf President
2. Race: Rathrockscourt - Osprey View - Soviet Sceptre
3. Race: Keepitsecret - No Panic - Roby De Cimbre
4. Race: Sweet World - Golden Hare - Maria Antonia
5. Race: Sizing Asia - The Rocking Dock - Mibleu
6. Race: Willies Way - Henri Prends Garde - What Luck

Market Rasen - betting forecast:
1. Race: Strikemaster - True Britannia - What A Day
2. Race: Zafar - Nephin Lad - Aggravation
3. Race: Ballyvaden - Luccombe Bay - Tempsford
4. Race: Just Like That - Evelith Echo - Nesnaas
5. Race: Benmadigan - Bundle Up - Foxesbow
6. Race: Dawn At Sea - Capall Eile - Intersky Music
7. Race: River Dragon - Friendship Bay - Dipity Doo Dah

Today´s flat racing in the UK

After the excellent meeting at York, for the first time extending over four days, today´ s racing in the U.K. is rather low level. The best racing is at Sandown, where the main feature is the Group Three Solario Stakes for 2yo´s over 6 furlongs at 15.40 CET. This looks quite open, but Godolphin´s Buzzword (Frankie Dettori) looks the likeliest winner following his second place to Dick Turpin (runs later in the afternoon in Ireland) at Goodwood. The listed race for fillies over a mile which opens the card at 15.10 should go to Strawberry Daiquiri (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore), who has won her last 3 races, including similar events here and at Ascot. However Say No Now (David Lanigan/ Richard Hills), 2 lengths behind her here, now reopposes on 4 lbs better terms, and could go close.

Ar Chester, the listed race over 1 mile 5 furlongs at 15.55 is a handicap and looks very tricky. Si Belle (Rae Guest/ Nicky Mackay), well beaten in Germany a couple of times, is now racing at her proper level and has an each-way chance, as do the German-owned Unleashed (Henry Cecil/ Tom Qually) and German-bred Press the Button (James Boyle/ Steven Craine), who is moving up in trip. 17 were declared for the valuable handicap over an extended 7 furlongs at 16.30. An inside draw is absolutely vital in such races here, and it is no surprise that the three drawn on the wide outside, stalls nos. 15,16, and 17, have all been declared non-runners. It is still a difficult race, and our short list includes Racer Forever (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune, drawn 6), Axiom (Luca Cumani/ Shane Kelly, drawn 7) and Kaldoun Kingdom (Richard Fahey/ Daragh O´Donohoe, drawn 4). Richard Fahey is having a good season and could also be on the scoreboard at Ripon with Trinder in the absurdly valuable 2yo race at 17.00 and German-bred Starla Dancer in the maiden at 18.40, both ridden by Tony Hamilton. At Bath this evening the firm ground should suit German-bred Passato (Jo Davis/ David Probert), who has not run on the flat for ages but has been in good form over hurdles and is on a very lenient mark in the 1 mile 5 furlongs handicap at 20.45. Probert can also win the mile handicap at 19.15 on Andrew Balding´s Dingaan, who ended a long losing run over this CD last time.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Strawberrydaiquiri - Say No Now - Please Sing
2. Race: Buzzword - Black Spirit - Prompter
3. Race: Fanjura - Antinori - Eastern Aria
4. Race: Northern Dare - Olynard - Haajes
5. Race: Rocket Rob - Strictly - Night Affair
6. Race: Bab At The Bowster - Jutland - Avon River
7. Race: Prince Of Johanne - Ordoney - Seventh Cavalry

4 meetings this evening

Evening racing under natural light is almost finished for this year, but there are four meetings this evening - Salisbury and Wolverhampton in the UK and Killarney (goes ahead after an inspection) and Kilbeggan in Ireland. The last-named meeting is all N.H. and the maiden hurdle at 19.05 CET should lie between Gratified (Dermot Weld/ Robbie McNamara) and Street Legal (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry). At Killarney, it will be interesting to see if Johnny Murtagh arrives to ride hot favourite Banyan Tree in the 2yo maiden at 17.50 for Aidan O´Brien, as he is also due to ride in the first race at York. There are also 3 races over hurdles here, and Ruby Walsh can land a double on Grand Opera for Gordon Elliott, in the main event at 19.50, and Huckle Buck Shoe for Willie Mullins in the maiden hurdle half an hour later. Best race this evening is the listed race for 2yo´s over a mile at 19.25 at Salisbury. Here also there are jockeys engaged who are riding at York in the afternoon, notab ly Frankie Dettori, who can take this on Black Snowflake for Godolphin. The dangers are Big Audio (Hannon/ Hughes) and Dreamspeed (Andrew Balding/ William Buick) who can possibly land a nice double for connections after his half-brother Dreameater runs in the listed race at York. There is also very low grade all-weather racing at Wolverhampton, which opens its gates this evening after a summer break, but will be thrilling us all autumn and winter with more of the same.

Chester and Sandown

There is also UK flat racing this afternoon at Chester and Sandown. Main event at the former track is a 6 furlongs conditions race for 2yo fillies at 16.40 CET. Walk on Water (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) won her only start in good style at Ascot a month ago and the form is working out well. She can score here, at the main expense of two much more experienced fillies, Diamond Laura (Ruth Carr/ Silvestre de Sousa) - 9 starts, 4 wins- and Crown (Richard Hannon/ Franny Norton) - 7 starts, 2 wins. At Sandown, the mile handicap at 16.50 looks really difficult with 17 runners. Top-weight Marajaa (Willie Musson/ Chris Catlin), a Goodwood winner last time, Romany Princess (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes), hampered last time but a CD winner before and Reel Buddy Star (George Moore/ Jamie Kyne), an easy Newcastle winner, all look dangerous, but the interesting one is the Godolphin runner Bab al Salam (Ted Durcan), who won his only start, a Lingfield maiden 10 months ago, and has not been out since.

York Ebor meeting: day four

Today is the fourth and final day of York´s Ebor meeting and the main feature is the Group One Nunthorpe Stakes over 5 furlongs at 16.25 CET. This is one of the few races in the calendar in which 2yo´s compete against their elders. They receive a massive weight allowance and ir is quite suprising that they do not try more often. Only one of today´s 17 runners is a 2yo- Radiohead (Brian Meehan/ Martin Dwyer) and he must have a good chance judging by the way he scored over this trip at Royal Ascot.

The last 2yo to score was Kingsgate Native (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) and he returns to this CD with good prospects after an easy success at Goodwood, with several of these opponents behind. Originally trained by John Best, he was bought by Cheveley Park as a stallion, but after failing at his new job, was brought back into training. There are two more previous winners in the field, consistent Borderlescott, who won last year when the race was run at Newmarket, and Reverence (2006), who needs soft ground to show his best form. Art Connoisseur (Michael Bell/ Hayley Turner) won the Golden Jubilee at Royal Ascot, but was well beaten in the July Cup, both races over 6 furlongs. Although these sprint races often throw up surprise results, we feel confident that only Radiohead or Kingsgate Native can win this.

Main supporting feature is the Group Three Strensall Stakes over 9 furlongs at 15.15. Stoute and Moore have another good chance here with Perfect Stride. However Spring of Fame (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), moving up in grade after an easy win at Deauville, and Forgotten Voice (Jeremy Noseda/ Johnny Murtagh), fourth in the Sussex Stakes, offer serious opposition. Stoute and Moore also team up with the likely favourite Confront, who is clear top-rated in the listed 7 furlongs race at 15.50. Once again the main danger comes from the Godolphin team in the shape of Huntdown, but Dream Eater (Andrew Balding/ William Buick) could also figure prominently.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Braveheart Move - Stanstill - Classic Vintage
2. Race: Forgotten Voice - Russian Sage - Perfect Stride
3. Race: Confront - Huntdown - Secret Society
4. Race: Kingsgate Native - Radiohead - Amour Propre
5. Race: Noble Greek - Businessman - Arry`S Orse
6. Race: Swingkeel - Aaim To Prosper - Saga De Tercey

Two jumps meetings today

There is N.H. racing this afternoon at Stratford and this evening at Fontwell, and Tim Vaughan could be the trainer to follow at both meetings. At Stratford he saddles top-weight and likely favourite Dabaratsa in the Fegentri race for amateur riders at 15.30, who will be partnered by the young German Marian Falk Weissmeier. Vaughan can also take the 3yo hurdle at 17.15 with Rupestrian (Dan Coleman), who is unbeaten in 4 starts so far. Another multiple winner for the stable is Berkeley Court, who despite some poor jumping, has won his last 3 races and will be a short price for the handicap chase at 19.15 at Fontwell. He will be ridden by Tony McCoy, who has 5 good rides at the meeting, and can also score with Benefit Game (Jonjo O´Neill) at 20.20 and Phoenix des Mottes for David Pipe half an hour later.

Rest of today´s flat racing

Obviously the other cards today look feeble in comparison to York, but it is significant that Frankie Dettori rides this afternoon on the all-weather at Lingfield. He has 3 rides, all with winning chances, Dhaawiah in the maiden fillies race at 15.40 CET, Ancien Regime in the 6 furlongs conditions race at 17.25, both for Godolphin, and Rocket Rob for Simon Callaghan at 18.00. Afterwards he dashes to Epsom to ride Godolphin´s Emirates Roadshow in the mile handicap at 20.30. A veteran trainer with a veteran racehorse - that is Milton Bradley and his 12yo The Tatling, and this popular character can complete a hat-trick in the 5 furlongs handicap at Chepstow at 20.40 with Jack Dean in the saddle. We also expect My Learned Friend (Andrew Balding/ David Probert - now without his allowance) to run well in the 7 furlongs handicap here at 20.05.

York Ebor meeting: day three

Today is ladies´ day at York and 3 of the 6 races are restricted to fillies (or mares). The main feature is the Group One Yorkshire Oaks over 1 1/2 miles at 16.25 CET, in which Sariska (Michael Bell/ Jamie Spencer) is expected to complete the Oaks treble, having already won at Epsom and the Curragh. Although she was arguably lucky at Epsom, she was impressive in Ireland, and although the going may be faster than ideal, she cannot be opposed here. She faces 5 opponents, two of them 3yo´s trained by Aidan O´Brien, Tamarind (Johnny Murtagh) and Roman Empress (Seamus Heffernan).

The O´Brien team has been im excellent form lately, though out of luck at this meeting, but it will be a surprise if either of them is up to winning this. Easily the best of the 3 older fillies is Dar Re Mi (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune), who made all to record a narrow victory in the Pretty Polly when last seen. She is tough and consistent, but needs to improve to defeat an in-form Sariska who looks an above average Oaks winner. The Lowther Stakes for 2yo fillies over 6 furlongs at 15.15 looks quite open, but our 3 against the field are Beyond Doubt (Michael Jarvis/ Neil Callan), Gold Bubbles (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning) and Lady of the Desert (Brian Meehan/ Martin Dwyer). The listed Galtres Stakes over 1 1/2 miles at 17.05 should mainly concern Fallen in Love (John Dunlop/ Steve Drowne) and Tanoura (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane).

The opening dbs St.Leger Yearling Stakes is the first in a series of very valuable sales races for 2yo´s coming up in the next few weeks. Richard Hannon is a specialist on these events and ddls 3 runners, best of which could be Sir Parky (Richard Hughes), but Di Stegano (Mick Channpon/ Jimmy Fortune) and Rofrogi de Torres (Alan Jarvis/ Neil Callan) ar two of several dangers. The handiaps as always look wide open. Two horses we have been following, Lovelace (Mark Johnston/ Jamie Spencer) and Docofthebay (Jamie Osborne/ Tom Queally), clash in the mile race at 15.50.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Di Stefano - Sir Parky - Rodrigo De Torres
2. Race: Lady Of The Desert - Beyond Desire - Gold Bubbles
3. Race: Mirrored - Roaring Forte - Acrostic
4. Race: Sariska - Dar Re Mi - Barshiba
5. Race: Leocorno - Flame Of Gibraltar - Fallen In Love
6. Race: Noble Storm - Mattamia - Green Beret

German runners at Deauville

No fewer than 14 German-trained runners in Deauville today. Al Batal (Werner Baltrpmei/ Dominique Boeuf) and Three French Hens (Mario Hofer/ Gerald Mosse) start the ball rolling in the race for 3yo maidens over 1900 metres PFS at 15.08, followed by Derek (Hans Blume/ Maxime Guyon), Nareoin (Baltromei/ Boeuf) and Indomito in a better race for 3yo´s over 1100 metres at 15.40. In a claiming race for 3yo´s over 1500 metres PSF for young jockeys at 16.15, First Lilly (Hofer/ Mikael Forest) and All Royals (Norbert Sauer/Jerome Claudic) are engaged, while Napata (Markus Klug/ Johan Victoire), Quadraga (Blume/ Guyon) and White Bull (Baltromei/ Boeuf) all run in the 2000 metres handicap at 16.45. Finally, Vaccaria (Waldemar Hickst/ Frankie Leroy), Feurball (Sauer/ Teddy Richer), Herbstgold (Robin Schoof/ Kim Donker), Orlik (Christian von der Recke/ Delphine Santiago) and Kiss and Run (Reiner Krapp/ Carina Fey) run in another claimer for young jockeys over 1900 metres PSF at 17.15. The re are some very large fields and all these races look very tricky; probably the best chance of a German victory is in the 1000 metres race at 15.40.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Toxeas - Porzapone - Sir Des Brousses
2. Race: Sidney Girl - Avril Rose - On Verra
3. Race: Belesta - Al Batal - Three French Hens
4. Race: Letteratura - Nareion - Bluster
5. Race: All Royals - Zaira - Dianeva
6. Race: King Majesty - Quadraga - Napata
7. Race: By Appointment - Blow The Lot - Coco Star
8. Race: Corneille - Barhill - Mana Glint

Rest of UK and Ireland today

Apart from York, there is racing this afternoon at Carlisle and Hamilton (poor planning!), and this evening at Folkestone, Kempton (all-weather) and in Ireland at Killarney (a mixed meeting with 3 flat races, 3 chases and a bumper). The two best races at Carlisle are both 5 furlong handicaps. These are always tricky, but we fancy Bedloe´s Island (Neil Bycroft/ Franny Norton) at 16.50 CET and Wicked Wilma (Alan Berry/ David Allan) in the fillies´ event at 17.25. Most of the riders at Hamilton are apprentices and the 9 furlongs handicap at 16.40 could lie between the two top-weights Hippolytus (John Quinn/ Jamie Kyne) and Casino Night (Ferdy Murtagh/ Andrew Heffernan); when they met last time, the latter won over this CD by a neck but on slightly better terms, the former could come out on top this time. At Kempton this evening, Street Power (Jeremy Gask/ Steve Drowne) can defy top-weight and complete a hat-trick in the 6 furlongs handicap at 21.10, while on a very poor card at Folkestone, Yarra River (Andrew Balding/ Liam Keniry) can defeat Chocolate Cookie (Richard Hannon/ Pat Dobbs) in the 2yo maiden at 19.20. In Ireland, the 1 3/4 mile handicap at 19.05 at Killarney, while not as strong as the Ebor, is still quite a hot race. Rajik, Evening Rushour, Mountain Snow and Cybersnow all ran well at the big Galway meeting and one of them will probably win this. Over jumps, Ruby Walsh can land a double on Paramount fotr his father Ted at 19.35 and Compelled for Willie Mullins an hour later, both beaten favourites last time who can recover losses this evening.

York Ebor meeting: day two

The Ebor meeting continues today, when the main event is the Ebor Handicap itself, Europe´s richest flat handicap, run over 1 13/4 miles at16.25 CET. This is always a ferociously difficult race, and is particularly tough for 3yo´s, but the likely favourite is the only 3yo in the field of 20, Aidan O´Brien´s Changingoftheguard (Johnny Murtagh), an improving sort who has won his last two races very easily.

Sir Michael Stoute´s Warringah (Ryan Moore) has top-weight and it will be a tremendous performance to win off this rating. More interesting could be Red Merlin (Clive Cox/ Philip Robinson), who will apparently win one lucky punter two million pounds if he scores here; he has won his last three races but has gone up sharply in the weights. Apart from Aidan O´Brien´s candidate, there are several more Irish runners, including Willie Mullins´ pair Deutschland (Mick Kinane) and Sesenta (Gary Carroll- the latest apprentice sensation), both of whom in good form both on the flat and over jumps, but they would possibly prefer easier ground. In a really tough race, we suggest Desert Sea (David Arbuthnot/ Seb Sanders), winner of a listed race at Sandown last time, as an each-way alternative to the favourites. There are also two group races on the card, the Lonsdale Cup over 2 miles at 15.15 and the Gimcrack Stakes for 2yo´s over 6 furlongs at 15.50. The former has a very substandard loo k; Enroller (Willie Muir/ Richard Hughes) and Royal and Regal (Michael Jarvis/ Neil Callan) both disappointed last time out, but are the highest-rated and could fight out the finish.

The most interesting runner in the Gimcrack is clearly Richard Hannon´s Monsieur Chevalier (Hughes), who has won 6 of his 7 starts, showing specacular finishing speed. H has never run beyond 5 furlongs, but is so relaxed that he should get today´s trip without problem. Showcasing (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune) and Orpen Grey (Tom Dascombe/ Richard Kingsote) look the main dangers.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Class Is Class - Yes Mr President - Whispering Gallery
2. Race: Royal And Regal - Enroller - Drill Sergeant
3. Race: Orpen Grey - Monsieur Chevalier - Showcasing
4. Race: Changingoftheguard - Red Merlin - Warringah
5. Race: Mister Manannan - Love Lockdown - Archers Road
6. Race: Full Of Love - Shamwari Lodge - Burgundy Ice

Nottingham, Worcester (N.H.) and Killarney (Ireland) this evening

Best race this evening is the listed Ruby Stakes over 8 1/2 furlongs at Killarney at 19.50 CET. This is quite an open affair with 13 runners, but the sole British raider Four Winds, owned by the Queen, trained by Michael Bell and partnered by Jamie Spencer has as good a chance as any. Aidan O´Brien´s top three jockeys are in action in York, so he has Shaun Levey on Poet and his teenage son Joseph on Windsor Palace, but on form they are only fighting for place money. However AP and JP can pick up the valuable 2yo handicap at 19.20 with top-weight Mikael Glinka, who created a positive impression when winning at Galway and is better than a handicapper. Several of the leading British jockeys travel on from York to Nottingham´s evening meeting, and Ryan Moore partners Insolence and Enact for Sir Michael Stoute at 19.30 and 20.30 respectively; however these are both quite tricky handicaps. There is jumps racing at Worcester with some quite large fields. Best horse on view is probab ly Always Bold (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire), who has a huge weight in the 3 mile novice hurdle at 19.10. However he has won both his hurdles starts with the greatest of ease, has good recent flat form to his credit, and could well outclass this evening´s opposition.

York Ebor meeting: day one

York´s biggest meeting of the year starts today, when the main feature is the Group One Juddmonte International over an extended 10 furlongs at 16.25 CET. Unfortunately the field has cut up badly, and astonishingly there are no English-trained runners, the first time this has ever happened in a British Group One. Sea the Stars (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane) is rated the best in the world at present and has scared off most of the opposition.

Here he has only 3 opponents, all trained by Aidan O´Brien, and it is clear that only Mastercraftsman (Johnny Murtagh) has any chance of finishing anywhere near the Oxx star, as the other two Georgebernardshaw (Colm O´Donoghue) and Set Sail (Seamus Heffernan) are only in the race as pacemakers and have no chance on form. Obviously this is going to be a tactical race, but Sea the Stars, out of Arc winner Urban Sea, appears to have no chinks in his armour and should easily account for Mastercraftsman, winner of the St. James´s Palace Stakes last time and earlier the Irish 2,000 Guineas. He has never yet run beyond a mile, while Sea the Stars has won the Derby and the Eclipse Stakes - arguably the best race run so far this year in Europe- and looks unbeatable here. We remember Brigadier Gerard getting beaten in this race, so no horse is ever certain to win, but Sea trhe Stars certainly looks almost impregnable.

There are two more group races on the York card, the Great Voltigeur Stakes over 1 1/2 miles for 3yo´s at 15.50, an important St. Leger trial, and the Acomb Stakes over 7 furlongs for 2yo´s at 15.15. With the Godolphin stable now in top form, it would be no surprise to see them take both these events; in the former they run Italian Derby winner Mastery (Frankie Dettori) , who has Harbinger (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) and Alwaary (John Gosden/ Richard Hills) to beat, and in the 2yo race they have two runners, Poet´s Voice Dettori) and Vale of York (Ted Durcan), both easy winners last time out. There is also racing tis afternoon at Brighton but at a very low level indeed.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Hamish Mcgonagall - Buachaill Dona - Northern Dare
2. Race: Poet`S Voice - Mata Keranjang - Party Doctor
3. Race: Harbinger - Alwaary - Father Time
4. Race: Sea The Stars - Mastercraftsman - Tartan Bearer
5. Race: Step In Time - Pintura - Lord Aeryn
6. Race: Royal Destination - Laterly - Jack Dawkins

Windsor, Yarmouth and Roscommon (Ireland) this evening

The 5 furlongs handicap at 19.35 CET at Windsor, with 11 runners, looks the best betting race of the evening. Rocket Rob (Simon Callaghan/ Richard Hughes) won nicely at Sandown last time and has an obvious chance, but top-weight The Jobber (Maurice Blanshard/ Dane O´Neill) and Sharp Bullet (Walter Swinburn / Shane Kelly) both look dangerous. Richard Hughes, who has a good record here, looks in any case the jockey to follow, as Candleshoe at 18.35, Cumana Bay at 20.05, Karoush at 20.35 and Caster Sugar at 21.05, all trained by Richard Hannon, all hold chances. There is a very poor card at Yarmouth with some small fields and little betting appeal. The 6 furlongs maiden here at 19.20 should lie between seasonal debutant Albaseet (Marcus Tregoning/ Tadhg O´Shea) and Hightime Heroine (Jeremy Noseda/ Jamie Spencer). The fields are much bigger at Roscommon´s mixed meeting (3 flat races, 3 over hurdles and a bumper), but winners look hard to find. Grman-breds Richard the First (Tom D oyle/ Mark Darcy) and Isabellareine (Mervyn Torrens/ Andrew Thornton) should have each-way chances in the hurdle race at 20.30 and 21.00 respectively.

Two all-weather meetings this afternoon

Only all-weather racing in the U.K. this afternoon with Kempton and Wolverhampton staging some generally low-level races. Best event is the class 2 handicap for 3yo´s over 7 furlongs at 16.30 CET. With the Godolphin stable now in top form, top-weight Khor Dubai (Frankie Dettori) looks the one to beat, Last-time-out winners Penitent (William Haggas/ Michael Hills) and Son of the Cat (Bran Gubby/ Darryll Holland) look his most dangerous opponents. The maiden race for fillies over 1 1/2 miles here half an hour later also looks interesting. Brief Look (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) has been runner-up on both her starts and is due for a win, but the same can be said of Moonbeam Dancer (David Simcock/ Holland), beaten in a photo this CD last time, and Opera Wings (Sir Michael Stoute/ Hayley Turner). The best race at Wolverhampton is the 6 furlongs handicap at 16.15, in which Sir Mark Prescott´s Prescription (Seb Sanders) seems certain to start hot favourite after her easy win last wee k at Lingfield and in view of the stable´s excellent form. Should she not oblige, then top-weoght Something (David and Adrian Nicholls) and last-time-out winner Luscivious (Jeremy Glover/ Graham Gibbons) are the alternatives.

Irian against the world´s best milers at Deauville

the Prix Jacques le Marois at 16.25 at Deauville this afternoon is not only the highlight of the summer meeting here, it is one of the best mile races in the world and has attracted a strong field, including the wonderful filly Goldikova (Freddie Head/ Olivier Peslier), who won in a canter here last time and is certain to be a short-priced favourite. However she does not have much in hand of Godolphin´s Gladiatorus (Frankie Dettori) if official ratings are to be believed. That one was a sensational winner at Dubai in March, before flopping at Royal Ascot; however the stable was then out of form, while they are now going great guns (19 winners in the UK alone so far this month). However it is by no means a two horse race and hopes are high that Gestüt Schlenderhan´s Irian (Jens Hirschberger/ Stephane Pasquier) can play a prominent role. The winner of the German 2,000 Guineas was unbeaten before his rather unlucky third place in the Prix Jean Prat last time and the jockey knows him better now. Also in the reckoning is Silver Frost /Yves de Nicolay/ Christophe Soumillon), winner of the French 2,000 Guineas. Goldikova may be hard to beat, but she will have to be at her best to score here. Several more German runners on the undercard, in particular König Bernard (Werner Baltromei/ Dominique Boeuf) in the valuable handicap at 14.50 and Brusco (Andreas Wöhler/ Boeuf) in the listed race for 3yo stayrs at 17.00 can be expected to run well.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Darling Pearl - Green Dandy - Poppet`s Treasure
2. Race: Grey Soldier - Celtie Rod - Unquenchable Fire
3. Race: Byword - Three Bodies - Debussy
4. Race: Walkingonthemoon - Needleleaf - Cadley Road
5. Race: Goldikova - Gladiatorus - Silver Frost
6. Race: Manighar - Prankster - Manighar
7. Race: Here Comes Alfred - Caerleon Wind - Balajo

Irish racing today

an excellent card this afternoon at the Curragh is headed by the Group Two Royal Whip over 10 furlongs at 15.45 CET. Casual Conquest (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen) was beaten at odds-on last time but can get back on the winning trail here, at the main expense of Curtain Call (Luca Cumani/ Fran Berry). Weld and Smullen can double up in the Desmond Stakes (Group Three) over a mile at 17.45 with Famous Name. The third group race is the Phoenix Sprint over 6 furlongs at 17.15, which looks quite open. Benbaun (Kevin Ryan/ Smullen) runs his best races here, but 5 furlongs is his trip and over this distance we fancy Snaefell (Mike Halford/ Keagan Latham) can get the better of him, while the 3yo Vocalised (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning) looks a major threat. There is also NH racing at Tramore with maximum fields in most races. As usual, Ruby Walsh looks the jockey to follow and he can land a double wth Collingford for his father Ted at 15.35 and Norwich Boy for Willie Mullins at 17.05.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Gile Na Greine - Dhabia - Black Eyed Susan
2. Race: Casual Conquest - Curtain Call - Via Galilei
3. Race: Sassy Gal - Good Time Sue - Absa Lutte
4. Race: Via Con Dios - Miss Chaparral - Ardistan
5. Race: Benbaun - Vocalised - Snaefell
6. Race: Famous Name - Three Rocks - Poet
7. Race: Saajidah - St Nicholas Abbey - Historic Occasion

Bath, Pontefract and Southwell

listed races for fillies always attract decent fields, and the 6 furlongs raceat Pontefract at 16.40 CET is no exception with 14 fillies declared. Best on ratings is the 3yo Swiss Diva (David Elsworth/ Micky Fenton), while Red Dune (Michael Jarvis/ Joe Fanning) looks best of the older runners. Henry Cecil´s Bouvardia (Tom Qually) has won her last two races and is coming off a 3 months break as well as moving up in class, but still looks a big danger. Bath also stages a fillies listed race, this time over a mile at 17.30. Here we have a rare German runner, Mario Hofer´s Whispered Dreams ( Ted Durcan), who has run well in defeat at Hamburg and Munich on her last two outings. However it looks tough here, with Golden Stream (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) and Balaagha (Michael Jarvis/ Tadgh O´Shea) the two to beat. Lady Deauville (Roger Curtis/ Darryll Holland) won this last year but is out of form at present and needs much softer ground. There is also NH racing at Southwell, w here Charlie Mann and Noel Fehily can land a double on German-breds Cortinas in the novice chase at 15.50 and Vacario in the novice hurdle an hour later.

Betting forecast Pontefract:
1. Race: Our Jonathan - Licence To Till - Newbury Street
2. Race: Braveheart Move - High Ambition - Joe Jo Star
3. Race: Rare Ruby - Casual Garcia - Ameeq
4. Race: Swiss Diva - Red Dune - Bouvardia
5. Race: Invisible Man - Rafiqa - Mohtashem
6. Race: Great Art - El Ameen - Landofthefourones
7. Race: Park Lane - Dalesway - Kessraa
8. Race: Monte Cassino - King Of Swords - Top Bid

German runners at Deauville

a big weekend at Deauville and an important one for German owners, with several runners in the main events. Today´s main feature is the Prix de Pomone for fillies and mares over 2500 metres at 15.35, in which Gestüt Röttgen´s Umirage (Hans Blume/ Johan Victoire) is only an outsider based on recent form. The two to beat are the Aga Khan´s Shemima (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Christophe Soumillon) and the only 3yo in the field Quetsche (Jean-Claude Rouget/ Christophe Lemaire), who is out of German classic winner Que Belle. The chances of a German victory are much better in the following race, the Group Three Prix Gontaut-Biron for 4yo´s and up over 2000 metres, in which there are 4 German runners. Gestüt Park Wiedingen´s Precious Boy (Waldemar Hickst/ Andreas Suborics) is clearly the best of them and must have good prospects in this company after his excellent second place at Munich. The other 3 German runners, Adelar (Werner Baltromei/ Olivier Peslier), Integral (Ralf Rohne/ Ioritz Mendizibal) and Inter Mondo (MarionWeber/ René Piecheluk) are all well held by Previous Boy on German form. However there are plenty of dangers, including the two British runners Blue Monday (Roger Charlton/ Soumillon) and Unnefer (Henry Cecil/ Lemaire), while the best of the local hopes are Loup Breton (Elie Lellouche/ Antony Crastus) and The Bogberry (Royer-Dupré/ Gerald Mossé).

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Stranger In Paris - Claude - Do Your Best
2. Race: Hot Spot - Kesara - Knowledge
3. Race: Red Avalanche - Angel`S Pursuit - Ladoga
4. Race: Winkle - Shemima - Armure
5. Race: Precious Boy - Loup Breton - Crossharbour
6. Race: Raqiyah - Nieshan - Forgehill Cezanne
7. Race: Lahib - Nashwan Al Khalidiah - Al Ryma
8. Race: Galma - Kendoroc - Vantage Point

top 6 furlong handicaps at Ripon and Newmarket

The main feature at Ripon today is the Great St. Wilfrid Handicap at 16.55 CET, traditionally one of the top 6 furlong handicaps if the season. Several of the 20 runners also ran in the Stewards Cup at Goodwood a fortnight ago, where Markab (Henry Candy/ Pat Cosgrave) came out best, finishing 4th, which gives him obvious chances here. However he is once again drawn in the middle, probably a disadvantage here. Everymanforhimself (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan) won well at Haydock last time, while we also fancy Excusez-Moi (Ruth Carr/ Silvestre de Sousa) who won this race for Clive Brittain 3 years ago and is now back in good form for his new trainer, who is enjoying a purple patch right now. The top race at Newmarket is lso a 6 furlong handocap, but the race at 16.25 is restricted to 3yo´s. Noverre to Go (Tom Dascomb/ Richard Kingscote) won nicely at Ascot last wek, with Fivestarjunior (Linda Stubbs/ Darryll Holland) fourth and now 6 lbs better off. Bounty Box (Chris Wall/ Chris Cat lin), from another in-form yard, is also one for the short list. Much lower in grade, but equally fascinating is the 6 furlongs handicap for grey horses at Newmarket 15.50, also a very popular event. Finsbury (Jim Goldi/ Kelly Harrison) won this last year and is back on the same mark, while Sir Edwin Landseer (Gary Moore/ George Baker) and Zowington (Steve Williams/ William Carson) are the two class horses in the field but have a huge weight to carry. We also like the chances of Grey Boy (Tony Carroll/ Liam Jones), out of Grey Perri, one of our favourite racehorses, who could run well at a big price.

Betting forecast Ripon:
1. Race: Tislaam - Mark Anthony - Suzi`S A Smartlady
2. Race: Cwm Rhondda - Antigua Sunrise - Cascata
3. Race: Hafawa - Colonel Mak - Whozthecat
4. Race: Markab - Excusez Moi - Valery Borzov
5. Race: Celtic Change - Gala Casino Star - Exit Smiling
6. Race: Neva A Mull Moment - Sea Crest - Diamond Blade



Betting forecast Newmarket:
1. Race: Rakaan - Arabian Pride - Engulf
2. Race: Russian Jar - Suba - Paquerettza
3. Race: Sir Edwin Landseer - Zowington - Medici Time
4. Race: Bounty Box - Noverre To Go - Enderby Spirit
5. Race: Electioneer - Radio City - Rockabilly Rebel
6. Race: Turjuman - Alcalde - Times Up
7. Race: Dragon Slayer - Lord Theo - Apotheosis

two group races at Newbury

a strong card at Newbury this afternoon, featuring two group races, and it would come as no surprise were Godolphin and Frankie Dettori to win them both. The stable is now in red-hot form and won 6 races yesterday, with Frankie partnering 5 of them. In the Geoffry Freer Staks over 1 mile 5 furlongs at 15.35 their candidate is Kite Wood, the only 3yo in the field and regarded as their main St. Leger hope. The main danger is Mouriyan (Gary and Ryan Moore) a good runner-up to Schiaparelli at Goodwood, but Godolphins second string Age of Reason (Ted Durcan) could also run well. In the Hungerford Stakes over 7 furlongs at 16.10 Evasive carries the blue colours for the first time, having been bought out of Sir Michael Stoute´s stable after his fourth place in the St. James´s Palace Stakes; earlier he was 6th in the 2,000 Guineas, and a reproduction of either of those form lines would suffice here. We expect front-runner Plum Pudding (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) to be the main d anger, even though he is moving up sharply in grade after putting up one of the best handicap performances of the year at Newmarket last time. With the Godolphin 2yo´s in particular running so well, we expect to see Love and Devotion win the opening race for maiden fillies at 14.30, but their are no runners for the stable in the listed race for 2yo´s at 15.05, which can be fought out by Azmeel (John Gosden/ Ryan Moore) and Blakeys Boy (John Dunlop/ Ted Durcan), both easy winners of their only race so far.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Love And Devotion - Za Za Zoom - Dance East
2. Race: Azmeel - Lucky General - Blakey`S Boy
3. Race: Kite Wood - All The Aces - Kings Gambit
4. Race: Evasive - Arabian Gleam - Balthazaar`s Gift
5. Race: Cyflymder - Golden Desert - Swift Gift
6. Race: Moonline Dancer - Estonia - Silent Secret
7. Race: Larkham - Senses - Mykingdomforahorse
8. Race: Norman The Great - Safebreaker - Maslak

Catterick, Kempton (a.w.), Newmarket and Tramore (Ireland N.H.) this evening

Frankie Dettori is riding at Kempton´s all-weather meeting this evening, and should win the mile handicap at 21.45 on Godolphin´s progressive Musleh, who is probably much better than this grade. Saeed bin Suroor also saddles Bawadi in the 10 furlongs maiden at 19.40 and Damietta in the race for 2yo maiden fillies at 20.10 and they can also be expected to run well. Ted Durcan rides for Godolphin at Newmarket and has good prospects on Democrate in the 10 furlongs conditions race at 20.35, where Moon Sister (Willie Jarvis/ Alan Munro) looks the main danger. Munro also has chances in the fillies handicap half an hour later on Chris Wall´s Pyrrha, who like her main rival Glen Molly (Barry Hills/ Darryll Holland) won over CD last time out. Matk Johnston has runners all over today and can land a double at Catterick with Akbabend at 19.50 and Iron Velvet half an hour later, both partnered by Greg Fairley. The only Irish racing this evening is the N.H. fixture at Tramore, where Ruby W alsh has fancied rides in all 6 races open to him. Dani California, for Willie Mullins at 18.40, and Paramount for his father Ted at 20.50, are possibly his best chances.

Newbury, Newcastle and Nottingham

This afternoon´s best racing comes from Newbury, where the main feature is the listed St. Hugh´s Stakes over 5 furlongs for 2yo fillies at 16.30 CET. Plenty of runners looking for black type here, but the obvious candidates are Sand Vixen (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), third in a Group Three at Ascot last time, Shamandar (William Haggas/ Kirsty Milczarek), runner-up to the smart Monsieur Chevalier in the Super Sprint over this CD last time, and Absolute Music (Robert Cowell/ Steve Drowne), runner-up in a listed race at Vichy. Dettori can also take the stayers handicap at 15.55 on the useful hurdler Bureaucrat for Philip Hobbs, where the lightly-weighted Toujours Souriante (Mark Johnston/ Louis-Philippe Beuzelin) looks a threat. Getcarter (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes), an easy winner Salisbury on Wednesday, attempts a quick follow-up in the 3yo handicap over 6 furlongs at 17.05, but may find top-weight Rapid Water (Andrew Balding/ Liam Keniry) too strong. Freddie Tyli cki is on a roll at the moment, and should be among the winners at Newcastle, where he has a full book of rides; Captain Macarry at 16.50, Dark Moment at 17.55 and Corton Charlemagne at 18.30, all last-time-out winners, look his best chances. The best race at Nottingham is the fillies handicap over 10 furlongs at 16.45. This looks wide open, and 7 of the 9 runners finished first or second last time out. Stan´s Cool Cat (Paul Cole/ Jimmy Quinn) beat Accede (Johnny Portman/ Pat Cosgrave) by a head at Newbury last time, but the placings may be reversed this time.

German runners in France today

Deauville stages two group three races today, the Prix Minerve over 2500 metres for 3yo fillies at 15.25 and the Prix de Lieurey over a mile an hour later. Although there are no German-trained runners in either of these events, there could well be a German winner as Gestüt Schlenderhan´s Kalla (Andre´ Fabre/ Maxime Guyon) has an obvious chance in the Minerve. The Lieuerey could go to locally-trained Soneva (Yves de Nicolay/ Christophe Soumillon). There are no fewer than 4 German runners among the 16 entries for the 1500 metres claimer on fibregrass at 16.55: El Vettorio (Christian Sprengel/ Soumillon), Fighting Johan (Jean-Pierre Carvalho/ Christophe Lemaire), Royal Pepper (Mario Hofer/ Gerald Mossé) and Sachsengold (Sascha Smcrzek/ Henk Grewe). This race has a very strong field for a "reclamer" but we expect the Germans, in particular El Vettori, to figure prominently. Smcrcek and Grewe are also represented by the 2yo Otou at 15.55. There are also several German runners at t he evening meeting at Moulins, where Werner Hefter saddles 4 runners, Ralf Rohne and Waldemar Himmel 3 each and the lovely Nina one.

5 meetings this evening

A very busy evening, with flat racing in the U.K. at Chepstow and Newcastle and jumping at Stratford, while there is a good card at Leopardstown as well as a mixed meeting at Tramore, both in Ireland. Pride of place goes to the Group Three Ballyroan Stakes over 1 1/2 miles at 20.25 CET at Leopardstown. The most likely winner here is Mourayan (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane), last time third in the Irish Derby and being aimed at the St. Leger. The older horses Profound Beauty (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen) and Shreyas (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning), both of whom have won their last 2 races, look the main dangers. At Tramore, German-bred Dubai King (BP Galvin/ RJ Molloy), a very easy winner last time out, can follow up in the 2 miles handicap chase at 20.15.

Two German-breds who might surprise at a big price in Britain are Sagunt (Sean Curran/ Warren Marston) in the novice hurdle at 18.40 at Stratford and Santiago Atitlan (Peter Monteith/ Tony Hamilton) in the mile handicap at 20.00 at Newcastle. The former was well beaten in his only run over hurdles, but that was almost 2 years ago, and in the meantime he is good form on the flat, having won 3 times already this year. The latter was runner-up in the Goldene Peitsche 2 years ago, but has run disastrously on his 4 starts in 2009. He is now down to a ridiculous rating and will encounter his favoured fast ground. At Chepstow we like the look of Poppets Lovein (Andy Haynes/ Robert Havlin), a half-sister to Overdose, in a tricky maiden race over 7 furlongs at 20.20.

Beverley,Salisbury and Sandown

Three flat meetings in the UK this afternoon and Salisbury has the best card, featuring the Group Three Sovereign Stakes over a mile at 17.15 CET. There are 7 runners, including last year´s winner Ordnance Row (Richard hannon/ Richard Hughes), but he seems held on recent form. Confront (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) represents the stable who won the two top races here yesterday and he seems certain to start favourite after his excellent second place in an Ascot Group Two. Khateeb )Michael Jarvis/ Tadgh O´Shea) won well at Pontefract last time and holds the Godolphin runner Orizaba (Ted Durcan), the only 3yo in the field, on that running, while Laa Rayb (Mark Johnston/ Jimmy Fortune) was an easy winner of a valuable Goodwood handicap last time.

Also at Salisbury, Ermine and Velvet (Clive Brittain/ Hayley Turner) should beat Primaeval (James Fanshawe/ Jamie Spencer) in the 7 furlongs maiden race at 16.05, while German-owned Doggerbank (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) has the improving Galilean Moon (Stoute/ Moore) to beat in the fillies handicap at 16.40. Frankie Dettori is riding at Sandown and can continue Godolphin´s winning run on Mezenah in the fillies maiden at 17.00 (though debutant Ghaneema - Marcus Tregoning/ Richard Hills-could be a dangerous opponent). Dettori and Hills can also fight out the finish of the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.25 with Film Set and Shabib respectively. At Beverley there are a couple of very open handicaps. Generally speaking high numbers (i.e.inside draw) have an advantage in 5 furlong races here, but we will take a chance on Wicked Wilma (Alan Berry/ Slade O´Hara), drawn 6 of 17, in a wide open sprint at 16.15. At 16.50 over 10 furlongs, almost all the 11 runners could win, with both Mohee bb (Ruth Carr/ Robert Winston), who has a huge weight to carry, and Tufton (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) chasing hat-tricks, and the most consistent Jo´Burg (Lady Herries/ Mark Lane) making the long journey north from the south coast.

Hamilton, Sandown and Gowran Park (Ireland) this evening

Once again a listed race for fillies is the main event this evening, the Hurry Harriet Stakes at 20.20 CET at Gowran Park over 9 1/2 furlongs. She´s Our Mark (Pat Flynn/ Danny Grant) is in great form and has won 3 races already this year, leaving several of these opponents behind her, but as a result she is saddled with a huge weight. On these terms we prefer Chinese White (Dermot Weld/ Pat Smullen)., Aidan O´Brien´s Roman Empress (Samus Heffernan) has been a bit disappointing and Johnny Murtagh has deserted her to partner David Wachman´s Always be True. But the 3yo that really catches the eye is the Aga Khan´s Timabiyra (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane), a daughter of Munich Group One winner Timarida. Frankie Dettori rushes from Salisbury to partner Godolphin´s Al Ghazal in the 2yo maiden over 7 furlongs at 19.35 at Sandown and can be rewarded with victory.

He also has a winning chance on Jeremy Noseda´s Key Art at 18.30, but in the 7 furlongs handicap at 20.10 we fear his mount Pat Eddery´s Key Signature may not be strong enough to hold Peking Prince (Andrw Balding/ William Buick) and Broad Cairn (Roger Charlton/ Steve Drowne). At Hamilton, the main event is a fillies mile handicap at 19.55. Mark Johnston always likes to win here and continues in great form, but his hope Fesko (Joe Fanning) faces some decent opposition, notably the unbeaten Wood Fairy (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) and Honimiere (Alan Swinbank/ Robert Winston) who has won 3 of her last 4 starts.

Beverley, Salisbury and Yarmouth

Easily the best race today in the U.K. is the listed fillies race over 10 furlongs at 17.05 CET at Salisbury. Consistent Ave (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) is the likely favourite here, and there are question marks over several of her opponents. Cape Amber (Ralph Beckett/ Seb Sanders) has not run since taking a similar event last September, while Lady Deauville (Roger Curtis/ Cathy Gannon) won this last year, and followed up by winning a group race in Germany, but has been below form in 2009 and has to concede weight all round. Wymering File is unbeaten this season, but is trained in Cyprus and is therefore a totally unknown quantity. Splashdown (Luca Cumani/ William Buick) is trherefore the main danger to the favourite. Frankie Dettori is also in action at Salisbury, but has no ride in th main feature. He partners rwo 2yo´s for Godolphin arlier on th card, Dafeef at 15.30 and Frozen Power half an hour latr, and in vuw of tge excellnt stable form, both must be respected. Ne il Callan looks the jockey to follow at Beverley; he has rides in 6 of the 7 races and it will be disappointing if he fails to ride a winner (or two). Main interest on a poor Yarmouth card will be to see if Sir Mark Prescott´s Point of Light (Chris Catlin) can win his fifth race in the space of 18 days in the 1 1/2 mile handicap for 3yo´s at 18.00. The Pivotal gelding still appears very well handicapped and should complete the fivetimer.

German runners in France today

Another German winner in France yesterday, and more chances today with runners at both Deauville and Vichy. At Deauville, Werner Baltromei has two runners in the tiercé handicap over 2 miles at 14.25, Samiro (Dominique Boeuf) and Balboa (Jerome Lermyte); both should run well but this is a very tough race. Baltromei and Boeuf also team up with Non Stop in the 1900 metres PSF seller for 3yo colts at 15.55 and Danae in the fillies equivalent half an hour later. There are 3 German runners in the 2400 metres PSF conditions race for 4yo´s at 16.55, Tresco (Michael Figge/ Ioritz Mendizibal), Khadar (Baltromei/ Boeuf) and -our selection- Nelson (Michael Trybuhl/ Olivier Peslier). Mario Hofer runs his useful 2yo Suerte Loco (Boeuf) in the fillies race at 15.25, but she faces strong opposition, notably from Gestüt Ammerland´s Hungry Heart (André Fabre/ Maxime Guyon) and Olvia (Carlos Laffon-Parias/ Peslier), both of whom are unbeaten.

There are also good juveniles running in the opening race at 13.50, including Richard Hannon´s cloudy prospect Cumulus Nimbus (Pat Dobbs). At Vichy, Halstead Heroe (Petr Olsanik/ Marc Nobili) and Pine Oaks (Conny Brandstätter/ Antony Lagamichos) run in the mile handicap at 15.40, and the latter team are also represented by Farah in the fillies maiden over 2000 metres at 17.40.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Barbegal - Cumulus Nimbus - Tip Toe
2. Race: Samiro - Diana Vertica - Mont Joux
3. Race: Cool And Composed - Executant - Lonia Blue
4. Race: Zeniyca - Hungry Heart - Suerte Loca
5. Race: Pickpocket - Vrilissos - Sandscape
6. Race: Royal Marchand - Sky Mamba - Aldoussa
7. Race: Natural Leader - Tresco - Vin Royal
8. Race: Selagan - Castagna - Balbeli

Musselburgh and Nottingham this evening

There are some quite small fields at Nottingham this evening, but still some interesting events. The best field is for the 5 furlongs conditions race at 20.55 CET, in which Dandy Man (Saeed bin Suroor/ Ted Durcan) is dropping in class. Found wanting at the highest level, the Godophin sprinter should be at home in this class and can account for Masta Plasta (David and Adrian Nicholls) and Biniou (Robert Cowell/ Jamie Spencer). The 1 3/4 miles handicap at 19.25 sees a rematch between Rotative (Walter Swinbirn/ Adam Kirby) and Hada Men (Luca Cumani/ William Buick), second and third over 1 1/2 miles last time. Over this longer trip it would be no surprise to see the Cumani runner come out on top this time. The best race at Musselburgh is the 5 furlongs seller at 20.40. Once again, a small field, but most of them have chances. Ingleby Star (Neil Wilson/ Gary Bartley) and Raccoon (Rith Carr/ Peter Mcdonald) are both in great form and won over this CD last time, but on ratings Obe G old (Debbie Mountain/ Silvestre de Sousa) and Fivefootnumberone (John Quinn/ Graham Gibbons) seem to hold an advantage.

Lingfield (a.w.) and Newton Abbot (N.H.)

Again a wintry look to British racing this afternoon, with only a poor card on the all-weather at Lingfield and jumping at Newton Abbot. At Lingfield, the most interesting event could be the 6 furlongs race for 2yo maiden fillies at 16.30. As none of the 5 entries that have already run have shown much ability, the four debutants should be the ones on which to concentrate, and with the Godolphin stable now in top gear, their two runners Tia Juana (Frankie Dettori) and La Ville Lumiere (Royston French) could well take the first two places. Frankie has just other ride here, Ray of Joy for John Jenkins in the handicap over the same trip half an hour later, but this looks a very tricky race, and we prefer Prescription (Sir Mark Prescott/ Seb Sanders), from another stable now in good form, and the two Boyle-trained runners Al Gillani (George Baker) and Ravi River (Pat Cosgrave). Tim Vaughan and Richard Johnson could be the team to follow at Newton Abbot, and have chances with Roman tic Bridge in the handicap hurdle over 3 miles 3 furlongs at 16.45 and Little Firecracker over 2 3/4 miles half an hour later. However there are large fields in both these races with many possibilities. A safer bet could be Star of Germany, a very easy winner last time out, in the 2 mile handicap chase at 15.15.
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German runners at Clairefontaine

Today´s card at Clairefontaine is very low-key, the best race being the tierce handicap for 3yo´s over 1400 metres at 14.20. Alexander Pereira´s German-bred Amico Fritz (Henri-Alex Pantall/ Gerald Mossé) has a chance here, but it is a very open race.There are German runners in the two races for amateur riders. In the ladies race over 2200 metres at 14.55 Michael Trybuhl´s Gaudium Magnum (Paul Fliermann) has an each-way chance, while in the 1800 metres claimer for gentleman riders at 16.55 stable companion Black Jack seems to have less chance than the other German runner, Nina Bach´s Officer (Marian Falk Weissmeier), who is dropping in grade.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Kermiyan - Taxi Bamako - Tindaro
2. Race: Benveniste - Chakacha - Langrune
3. Race: Bedaly - Colourways - Folle Allure
4. Race: Wadowice - Greensleeves - Belle Amie
5. Race: Zakatal - Ladyholme - Barunner
6. Race: Nexcity - Surpressa - Lisselan Hurricane
7. Race: Chief Xodipo - Officer - Miss Tonic
8. Race: By Appointment - Asagild - Gemo Magusta
9. Race: Spider Flash - Lavi - Red Berry

Thirsk, Windsor and Ballinrobe (Ireland) this evening

Paul Hanagan, riding this afternoon at Wolverhampton, rushes north to Thirsk this evening, where he can win the 2yo maiden at 20.30 CET on Richard Fahey´s Our Joe Mac. Best race here is the 5 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 21.30.One could be lucky here with Lucky Art (Ruth Carr/ Silvestre de Sousa) or Lucky Numbers (Paul Green/ Jamie Spencer), both of whom have a chance, but we prefer top-weight Glamorous Spirit (Ron Harris/ Kevin Guunova), who made all to win at Chester last time. At Windsor, the best race by far is the 6 furlongs handicap at 20.20. This looks very open with several in-form performers, including last-time-out winners Esteem Machine (Roger Teal/ Jimmy Fortune) and Olynard (Ralph Beckett/ Richard Kingscote), while Vhujon (David Evans/ Neil Callan), who has been running in better races, and Saucy Brown, whose trainer and jockey Richard Hannon and Richard Hughes have such a good record here, also look dangerous.

Point of Light looks a typical Sir Mark Prescott handicapper: after 3 runs down the field last year, he did not make his 2009 debut until the end of July, but has since won 3 races in quick succession and can complete a fourtimer in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 21.20 with Chris Catlin in the saddle. The improving Vita Mia (David Evans/ Louis-Philippe Beuzelin) is the obvious danger. In Ireland, there is a mixed meeting at Ballinrobe (4 flat races followed by 3 steeplechases). Best flat race is the 9 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 19.40, which can go to Dermot Weld´s Qassaar (Pat Smullen), a maiden winner at the recent Galway meeting, while over fences Ruby Walsh has fancied rides, notably Jubilant Note for Mike Murphy at 20.40 and Coffee Tea or Me for Willie Mullins at 21.40.

All-weather racing this afternoon

This afternoon´s racing in the UK suggests that the summer is coming to an end, with only all-weather racing at Southwell and Wolverhampton. On the whole the racing is pretty dire, but at least there are two class 3 handicaps at Southwell to lighten the gloom. The first, over 1 1/2 miles at 16.15 CET, sees a rare runner from the Sir Michael Stoute stable at this track- Kensington Oval (Jimmy Fortune), who finished third last time out; in the same race Lochiel (Peter Mcdonald) slipped in the stalls and virtually took no part. He is one of two runners trained by Alan Swinbank, the other being Ella (Robert Winston) who won two races last summer, but has not been seen since. We prefer Jadalee (Ger Butler/ Sane Kelly), an easy Newmarket winner over a longer trip last time. Most of the 7 runners in the 5 furlongs handicap at 17.15 are CD specialists, including Pawan (Ann Stokell) and Tartartafutata (James Given/ Paul Mulrennan), who have been below form on their recent starts but can be expected to do much better today back on their favourite track. Some leading trainers are also in action at Wolverhampton, including Paul Cole, who can take the 2yo handicap at 16.30 with top-weight Silver Symphony (Eddie Ahern), and Jeremy Noseda, who has good prospects in the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.00 with the lightly-raced Kyleene (William Buick).

Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville

The best race in Europe today is the Group One Prix Maurice de Gheest over 1300 metres at 16.30 at Deauville, which has been won for the past 3 years by Marchand d´Or. He is not running today, but his trainer Freddie Head can still take the race with Naaqoos (Davy Bonilla), who is dropping back in distance but is arguably the class horse in the field on his smart 2yo form last year. The Head family have good chances here, with Criquette saddling African Rose (Stephane Pasquier) and her father´s Dunkerque (Dominique Boeuf), while there is a strong challenge from England where 5 of the 12 runners are trained.

Best of them could be King´s Apostle (William Haggas/ Ryan Moore), unlucky in the July Cup last time, and Serious Attitude (Rae Guest/ Eddie Ahern). There are no German runners in the highlight, but three with chances on the undercard are Grand Archer (Nina Bach/ Anne-Sophie Pacault) in the Fegentri ladies race over 1500 metres PSF at 14.15, Secundus (Hans Blume/ David Bellocq) in the 2400 metres PSF Fegentri race for gentlemen riders at 17.35, and Double Handful (Michael Figge/ Pasquier) in a conditions race for 3yo´s over 2000 metres at 17.05; last time out Double Handful made much of the running in the German Derby and will no doubt find this company less demanding.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Mayweather - Stop Making Sense - Sequoia
2. Race: Rymi - Dance Dance - Cool Star
3. Race: Russiana - Lungwa - Sanajiyr
4. Race: Namestick - Mister Adrien - Brevan
5. Race: Naaqoos - African Rose - Asset
6. Race: History Boy - Martial Law - Veleza
7. Race: Kasrawad - Secundus - El Chulo
8. Race: Royale Again - Freemix - Juanito

Irish racing today

Two Irish meetings today, with flat racing at Tipperary and an all-hurdles card at Downpatrick. The best racing is at Tipperary, with two listed races on the card, and Aidan O´Brien clearly wants to win the 2yo race over 7 furlongs at 17.05 CET, as he saddles 3 of the 5 runners. Jockey bookings imply that Viscount Nelson (Johnny Murtagh) is the stable´s number one ahead of Kingdom of Munster (Seamus Heffernan) and the debutant Utrillo (Colm O´Donoghue) but past experience has shown that it does not necessarily work out like that. Th 5 furlongs race at 16.35 can go to the top-weight and also top-rated Snaefell (Mike Halford/ Johnny Murtagh), although he is possibly better over slightly further. A horse that might run well here at a decent price is Augustine Leahy´s Wesaidneveragain in the apprentice handicap at17.35; he will be partnered by Aidan´s teenage son Joseph O´Brien, who has already shown that he possesses the family talent. At Downpatrick there are maximum fields in most races, the exception being the 2 1/4 mile hurdle at 16.25. Wikaala (Gordon Elliott/ Barry Geraghty), the only 4yo in the field, ran well in a hot race at Galways and is the selection in a tricky event.

Leicester, Redcar and Windsor

The ground will be very soft at Leicester after heavy rain in the past few days. Main event here is the 3yo handicap over 7 furlongs at 16.50 CET, which has only 7 runners but still looks quite tricky. Both Henry Cecil and Richard Fahey saddle two runners, but jockey bookings suggest that El Loco Uno (Tom Queally) and Kyllachy Star (Paul Hanagan) are their main hopes, but Rafta (TT Clement/ Josephine Bruning), who has won her last 4 races, including this CD on soft going, looks the one to beat. Imaam (John Dunlop/ Richard Hills) and Sunshine Always (William Haggas/ Hayley Turner) are also in with a serious chance.

With the Godolphin stable in great form, the "boys in blue" can get on the scorecard at both Windsor and Redcar. At Windsor their two runners Chaperno (Ahmed Ajtebi), in the 6 furlongs conditions race for 2yo´s at 16.30, and Samaaha (Ted Durcan), a half-sister to Mamool who runs in the 10 furlongs maiden race for fillies at 17.30, are likely to start short-priced favourites, while at Redcar the well-bred Siyaadah (Royston Ffrench) makes her debut in the 2yo fillies maiden at 15.10. Also at Redcar, we fancy Talayeb (Marcus Tregoning/ Tadgh O´Shea) to run well in the maiden handicap at 17.40. He has been off the track since April, but with the stable back in form, can strike here.

Godolphin at 3 meetings today

The Godolphin stable has really hit top form in the past few days (5 winners from the last 6 starters) and more success can be expected today. Ted Durcan partners their runners at Newmarket today and much interest will be centred on Long Lashes, bought recently out of the Jessica Harrington stable after easily winning on her debut, in the Group Three Sweet Solera Stakes for 2yo fillies at 16.00 CET. However this looks a strong renewal and Jira (Clive Brittain/ Kevin Shea), Sent from Heaven (Barry and Michael Hills), Bikini Babe (Mark Johnston/ Richard Hills) and Chachamaidee (Henry Cecil/ Tom Queally) also have chances. Godolphin´s runners in the two divisions of the 2yo maiden fillies event, sponsored by German Thoroughbred Marketing, Battlemaiden at 14.25 and Huroof at 17.10 also deserve respect. It is probably significant that stable jockey Frankie Dettori has been sent to Haydock to partner Campanologist in the Group Three Rose of Lancaster Stakes over 10 furlongs at 15.4 0. Although Campanologist has not really run up to his excellent 2008 form so far this year, he can score here at the main expense of Duncan (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune), Jukebox Jury (Mark Johnston/ Royston French) and Tranquil Tiger (Henry Cecil/ Eddie Ahern). Godolphin have also entered Emirates Sports in the main event at Redcar, a handicap over the straight mile at 15.35. William Buick, who should have a profitable afternoon with several good rides, has been booked.

Andrasch Starke in Shergar Cup at Ascot

It´s Shergar Cup day at Ascot! 6 races on the card, all handicaps, and contested by four teams of international jockeys, representing England (Hayley Turner, Alan Munro and Darryll Holland), Ireland (Richard Hughes, Neil Callan and Seamus Heffernan), Europe (Freddie Johannson, Andrasch Starke and Gerald Mosse) and the rest of the world (Ahmed Ajtebi, Hiroyuki Ushika and Malesh Narredu). The draw has not been too kind to Starke and his best chance would appear to be the consistent Mabuya, trained by Peter Makin, in the 1 1/2 mile handicap for 3yo´s at 14.45, although recent winner Polly´s Mark (Clive Cox/ Richard Hughes) looks the likeliest winner here. Our other fancies at Ascot today: 14.10, 5 furlongs, Judge´n Jury (Ron Harris/ Alan Munro),15.20, 1 mile, Docofthebay (Jamie Osborne/ Hayley Turner), 15.55, 2 miles, Tungsten Strike (Amanda Perrett/ Alan Munro), 16.30, 1 1/2 miles, Remember Ramon (Jeremy Gask/ Darryll Holland) and 17.05, 6 furlongs, Noverre to Go (Tom Dascombe/ Hayley Turner)

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Judge `N Jury - Cheveton - Mandurah
2. Race: Polly`S Mark - Mabuya - Alanbrooke
3. Race: Moynahan - Docofthebay - City Of The Kings
4. Race: Yes Mr President - Keenes Day - Gee Dee Nen
5. Race: Conquisto - Mystery Star - William Blake
6. Race: Run For The Hills - Proclaim - Kerrys Requiem

German runners at Deauville

Main event at Dauville today is the Listed Prix de Reux over 2500 metres at 15.25, where the field of 10 includes two strong German candidates: Sassoaloro (Hans Blume/ Johan Victoire) and Little Fighter (Jean-Pierre Carvalho/ Christophe Lemaire). Both ran at the Hamburg Derby meeting, where the latter won a minor event, while the former finished a respectable 5th in the Hansa-Preis. Litte Fighter was runner-up in the 2008 Union-Rennen, but overall Sassoaloro´s form looks better. Camille (P.Kalas/ Olivier Peslier), a son of Monsun, is an interesting runner from central Europe, having won his last 5 races, but this is a different ballgame.

Best of the locals should be Ideal World (André Fabre/ Stephan Pasquier), Barongo (Urs Suter/ Thierry Jarnet) and Mores Wells (Richard Gibson/ Gerald Mossé), but we shall be disappointed if the German runners do not finish in the money. Gyrona (Andreas Trybuhl/ Lemaire) is in excellent form and can be another German winner in the 2400 metres handicap on fibregrass for 5yo´s and up at 14.55, while the inconsistent 9yo Kaliyan (Mario Hofer/ Victoire), if on a going day, also has a chance in the claimer over the same trip at 16.55. Werner Baltromei has booked Dominique Boeuf to partner his two 2yo´s Ustilago and Avril in the mile races for unraced colts and fillies at 13.50 and 14.25 respectively.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Marine Officer - Dubawi Junior - Wealthy
2. Race: Lily Of The Valley - Sound Of Summer - Anna Salai
3. Race: Figo - Smile Dream - Gyrona
4. Race: Ideal World - Little Fighter - Camill
5. Race: J`Assume - Rashetti - People Chop
6. Race: Zidino - Extra Mouche - Sunny Bere
7. Race: Nummenor - Kimosabe - Majimourien
8. Race: Eklektos - Kalmuk - Carlix

Haydock, Musselburgh, Newmarket and Wexford (Ireland) this evening

There has also been plenty of rain at Newmarket, but this should not bother Godolphin´s Prince Siegfried in the conditions race for 3yo´s over 10 furlongs at 20.50 CET. He was third in a French Group Two last time which makes him the clear form choice here. With the Godolphin stable now in top form, it would come as no surprise if all 3 of their Newmarket runners - all partnered by Frankie Dettori- were to score this evening. Another trainer in red hot form is Ruth Carr, and she can take the mile handicap at 19.30 at Musselburgh and the 5 furlongs handicap an hour later with Ninth House and Raccoon, both ridden by Peter Mcdonald. Best race this evening at Haydock is the 3yo handicap over a mile at 21.00; Paquerettza (David Brown/ Paul Mulrennan) can maintain his unbeaten 2009 record here, he left out a much tougher race yesterday to wait for this.

In Ireland, there is a mixed meeting at Wexford (four flat races, two over hurdles and a bumper). Willie Mullins looks the trainer to follow here with 4 winning chances - topweight Lake and Lay (Paul Townend) in the handicap at 18.25, Tawaagg in the amateur riders race at 20.00, For the Staff in the maiden hurdle at 21.05 and debutant Red Cherub in the bumper at 21.35, the last 3 all partnered by his son Patrick.

Brighton, Lingfield and Worcester (N.H.)

Overnight rain in many parts of Britain has changed the going, and it is now soft at Brighton and heavy at Worcester. At the latter track, this will certainly not be in favour of German-bred Donaldson (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy), a son of fast-ground specialist Lando, the likely favourite for the novice chase at 16.50 CET. On the other hand this should not worry the same connections´ Two Miles West, who won over CD 10 days ago, in the 3 mile handicap hurdle half an hour later; a son of Sadlers Wells out of classic winner User Friendly, he has one of the best pedigrees in N.H. racing and seems to act on any going. The one to beat is Little Shilling (Tim Vaughan/ Richard Johnson), who won 6 successive races last November/ December but has not been seen out since the Cheltenham festival.

In any case,punters are advised to tread carefully at Worcester and check for non-runners, and the same applies to Brighton, where conditions will be totally different from yesterday. The German-breds Persian Storm (Gary Moore/ George Baker) in the claiming race at 16.00, and Carmenero ((Willie Muir/ Seb Sanders) in the seller an hour later, both appear to have winning chances here. At Lingfield, where the first 3 races are run on turf and the last 4 on the all-weather, we fancy the lightly-raced Adnams (Chris Wall/ Ted Durcan), who also has a part-German pedigree, to beat likely favourite Persian Memories (John Dunlop/ Eddie Ahern) in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 15.40.

Ireland this evening

The best racing of the day comes from Ireland, where the highlight of Leopardstown´s evening meeting is the Group Two Debutante Stakes for 2yo fillies at 20.10 CET. This looks like another top event which will go to Aidan O´Brien, who saddles 3 of the 6 runners. Stable jockey Johnny Murtagh partners Lillie Langtry, 2nd of 22 at Royal Ascot last time, but the other two runners should also not be ignored. O´Brien and Murtagh can also pick up th opening 2yo maiden at 18.40 with Beethoven, who has alrady run 5 tims withot winning, but should b up to this. There is also racing at Sligo with an all-hurdles card. The best event here is the novice hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 19.50. Glenstal Abbey (Charlie Swan/ Tony McCoy) was caught close home by a Ruby Walsh runner at Galway last week, but can go one better here, with Walsh looking the most dangerous rival again on Hopeful Venture.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Beethoven - Clashnacree - Rockie Bright
2. Race: Kilmannin - Dawn Eclipse - Metropolis
3. Race: Totally Devoted - Tirunesh - Crystal Idea
4. Race: Lillie Langtry - Devoted To You - Alshahbaa
5. Race: Slieve Mish - Ballivor - Empirical Power
6. Race: Munnings - Andre Mon Ami - Desert Mile
7. Race: Won In The Dark - Ashka - Jettymarc

Bath, Folkestone and Sandown this evening

Frankie Dettori rode winners at Deauville and Kempton yesterday and can keep up the good work this evening at Folkestone with Godolphin´s German-bred Marine Spirit in the 2yo maiden at 19.35 CET. The son of Big Shuffle has run two good races already and the opposition does not look very strong. Frankie can also win the 3yo handicap half an hour earlier on Paul Cole´s Bea Menace.

The 10 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 20.55 at Sandown looks the best race of the evening in the U.K. Only 7 runners, but all with some good form to their credit. Sequilo (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) is going for a hat-trick, while Akbabend (Mark Johnston/ Royston Ffrench) had something amiss last time but has good prospects on earlier form, while Sir Michael Stoute´s Almuktahem (Tadgh O´Shea) was an easy winner last time, but our preference is for Tottie (Amanda Perrett/ Jim Crowley), who hit the front too early at Glorious Goodwood last week. Sir Mark Prescott has his team in good form and can complete a hat-trick with Point of Light (Rosie Jessop) in the apprentice handicap at 18.55 at Bath.

Brighton, Haydock and Yarmouth this afternoon

Once again, there is plenty of racing today, but mainly of a very low standard. Brighton stages its second big handicap in two days, and after Mark Johnston took´s yesterday´s race, there must be high hopes that he can score again at 17.00 CET with Step this Way (Royston Ffrench), who was well beaten last time at York over 2 miles but may find todays trip if 1 1 /2 miles more suitable. Last-time-out winner Free Tussy (Gary Moore/ Liam Keniry) and the two lightly-weighted 3yo´s Halfway House (Michael Bell/ Jamie Spencer) and Gaselee (Rae Guest/ Chris Catlin) look the obvious dangers.

Best race at Haydock is the mile handicap for 3yo´s at 16.40 in which all 7 runners come with a chance. Top-weight Mishrif (John Jenkins/ Neil Callan) and Deadly Secret (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) were both well beaten at Royal Ascot but face lesser opposition now, but the two to beat are probably Cyflymnder (Richard Hannon/ Eddie Ahern), going for a fourtimer, and Tiger Reigns (Michael Dods/ Phillip Makin). The following 1 1/2 mile handicap for 3yo´s also looks very open, but the Queen´s Going for Gold (Roger Charlton/ Ahern) is one for the short list, together with Sir Mark Prescott´s Choral Festival (Seb Sanders). Ryan Moore is at Yarmouth, where he has rides in all 6 races, his best chance probably being Singora Lady for Peter Midgeley at 17.20, but he does not partner Sir Michael Stoute´s only runner, Serhaal, the likely hot favourite in the 2yo maiden at 15.20, who will be partnered by his owner´s retained jockey Richard Hills.

German runners at Deauville

The big Deauville meeting continues today, when the main event is a listed race over a mile for 3yo´s at 16.10. Frankie Dettori makes a flying visit to France to ride Godolphin´s Spring of Fame here and has an excellent chance of winning. Ex-German Mantoro (Alain de Royer-Dupré/ Gerald Mossé), 4th in the German 2,000 Guineas, looks the most dangerous opponent, together with Polarix (Henri-Alex Pantall/ Maxime Guyon). There are German-trained runners in two of the supporting events, both races for apprentices and "jeunes jockeys". In a race for 3yo fillies over 1500 metres on the fibregrass track at 15.10, Ravenel (Ralf Rohne/ Flavien Prat) and Liandra (Hans Blume/ Brice Raballand) are the German runners, and at 16.40 Los Llanos (Mario Hofer/ Aurelien Malenfant) and Horse of Course (Doris Smith/ Romain Perruchot) try their luck in a claiming race for 3yo´s over 2400 metres (also PSF). Of these, we think that Ravenel has the best prospects.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Behkabad - Melodyman - Tall Chief
2. Race: Zardaba - Baahama - Yushka
3. Race: Ravenel - Spain Blues - Liandra
4. Race: Helipad - French Owl - Live the Moment
5. Race: Polarix - Spring Of Fame - Gaelic Silver
6. Race: Canmoss - Los Llanos - The Quarterback
7. Race: Illimani - Saalewüste - Sendawalis
8. Race: Lumiere De Boitron - Antonov - Romain des Vignes

4 fixtures this evening

There is racing this evening in the U.K. at Kempton (all-weather) and Yarmouth, as well as Gowran Park and Sligo in Ireland, where, unusually, all races are on the flat. Many of the top jockeys will be in action at Kempton, and it is probably significant that Frankie Dettori, who is riding in France in the afternoon, comes here for just two rides - both for Godolphin - Dhaawiah in the mile maiden at 21.05 CET and seasonal debutant Musleh in the 3yo mile handicap at 21.35. Both races however look very competitive. At Yarmouth, the best race is the 6 furlongs handovap at 20.20 is the best race; last-time-out winners Capone (G Moss/ Hayley Turner) and Big Boom (Mick Quinn/ Pat Cosgrave) have arguably the best form - but watch out for veteran CD specialist Gone´n´Dunnett (Christine Dunnett/ William Carson), who runs his best races here.

In Ireland, Pat Smullen looks the jockey to follow at Sligo, where he can land a hat-trick on Miss Chaparral in the fillies maiden at 20.10, top-weight Vivien Lee in the 3yo handicap at 21.40 - both for Dermot Weld- and Boulay at 20.40 for Michael Grassick. Most of the big guns however will be at Gowran Park, where the 7 furlongs race for unraced 2yo´s at 18.30 has runners from top stables, including Joshua Tree (Aidan O´ Brien/ Johnny Murtagh), Aliwiyya (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane) and Book of Numbers (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning)

Brighton, Pontefract and Newcastle

Plenty of racing in the U.K. and Ireland today, but most of it at a very low level. Strangely enough, despite the heavy rainfall in many parts of Britain yesterday, the going is reported to be good to firm all over. At Newcastle, the 6 furlongs seller at 16.50 could be the most interesting race. Hiccups (Michael Dods/ Phillip Makin) and Darcey (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) are the highest-rated runners, but apprentice-ridden Soto (Mick Easterby/ James Sullivan) and Ice Planet (Ruth Carr/ Dean Heslop) look dangerous -. especially the last-named whose stable is in red-hot form. The mile maiden race here at 17.20 looks a straight match between Storming Sioux (William Haggas/ Richard Hills) and German-bred Starla Dancer (Fahey/ Hanagan). At Brighton, the mile handicap at 17.00 is worth over 16,000 GBP to the winner, which makes it one of the most valuable races of the year at this track. With 16 runners, it looks wide open. Burns Night (Mark Johnson/ Greg Fairley), the only 3yo i n the field, Driven (Amanda Perrett/ Jim Crowley), a CD winner from an in-form yard, and Northern Spy (Simon Dow/ Tom Queally), an easy Epsom winner last time, are our three for the short list.

There are also 16 runners in the 6 furlongs handicap at 18.00, in which top-weight and last-time-out winner Eye for the Girls (Mick Channon/ Darryll Holland) is the likely favourite. However Dancing Welcome (Milton Bradley/ Luke Morris) was not far behind him last time and can reverse the form on 4 lbs better terms. At Pontefract, the veterans handicap at 17.40 over a mile is for 6yo´s and older horses; it has attracted a large field, but consistent Exit Smiling (Peter Midgeley/ Neil Callan) looks a solid each-way bet. The 1 1/2 mile handicap here at 16.40 has only 7 runners, but looks quite tricky. Bottom weight High Ambition (Richard Fahey/ Freddie Tylicki) is moving up in grade here but can score again.

German runners at Deauville

The Deauville summer meeting continues today when the main event is the listed Prix du Cercle at 15.55 over 1000 metres. Two of the 13 runners are German-trained, the 11yo Sacho (Wilfried Kujath/ William Mongil) and 4yo Best Joking (Werner Hefter/ Gerald Mossé), who both ran in this event last year, finishing 3rd and 4th. Sacho is one of our favourite racehorses, but on this occasion we prefer Best Joking, who is very fast, but he faces strong opposition from the 3yo fillies Aiboa (Urbano Grajales/ Christophe Soumillon), Peace Camp (Andre Fabre/ Johan Victoire) and Treasure (Criquette Head-Maarek/ Christophe Lemaire). However our main fancy is British challenger Masta Plasta (David Nicholls/ Thierry Thulliez). Molly Max (Miroslav Rulec/ Daniele Porcu) was back to form last time, but faces a stiff task under a huge weight in the 1900 metres tiercé handicap on the fibregrass at 14.25; in our opinion Grazilla (Andreas Trybuhl/ Lemaire) has a better chance in the second and easie r division at 17.25.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Kokouchu - Signal - Aaro
2. Race: Welmark - L`Impressioniste - Triple Beat
3. Race: Mix Dancer - Daryakana - According
4. Race: Campanaca - Coconino - Redondelle
5. Race: Aiboa - Masta Plasta - Best Joking
6. Race: Reve de Nuit - Chorale d`Anges - Slap Shade
7. Race: Super Kenny - Lion of the Day - Don Salsa
8. Race: Low Budget - De Zephyr - Last Storm

Roscommon this evening

There is no evening racing today in the U.K., so the Irish track of Roscommon has the field to itself. 7 races are on the card, 4 on the flat and 3 over hurdles, and the 10 furlongs maiden race at 19.50 CET could be the most informative event. Jazz Blues (John Oxx/ Mick Kinane) and Estephe (Tommy Stack/ Johnny Murtagh) were both runners-up last time and look the most likely prospects, but Livaleo (Joanna Morgan/ Pat Smullen), whose stable is in good form, looks a big danger. There are only 4 runners in the most valuable race, a fillies handicap over 1 1/2 miles at 20.20, and German-bred Gladiole (Ger Cully/ Danny Grant), who has finished second on her only two starts in 2009, should go one better here. The hurdle race at 20.50 is one of the first of this season in Ireland for 3yo´s and the booking of Ruby Walsh for Suprise Vendor certainly catches the eye.

Catterick, Chepstow and Newton Abbot (N.H.) this afternoon

Very low-level racing at today´s 3 British meetings, and the most interesting event is possibly the 1 3/4 miles handicap at 17.20 CET at Catterick with 9 runners. Alan Swinbank´s Saga de Tercey(Neil Callan) won his first 2 races but was a slightly disappointing favourite last time; he can get back on the winning trail here, although top-weight Phoenix Flight (Sir Mark Prescott/ Seb Sanders) and Bergonzi (Howard Johnson/ Freddie Tylicki) both look dangerous. Also at Catterick, the claiming race over 1 1/2 miles half an hour later looks a match betwen Nawamees (David and Richard Evans) and German-bred Terminate (Ian Williams/ Shane Kelly). The former, a very consistent 11yo, runs just about every week and holds Terminate on their CD running in May, but we would not be suprised to see the latter turn around the form this time.

At Chepstow, Newmarket trainer William Haggas and jockey Liam Jones have chances a landing a double for owner-breeders Cheveley Park Stud with Respite, top-weight in the fillies mile handicap at 17.10 and the lightly-raced Penitent in the 7 furlongs handicap half an hour later. A couple of German-bred runners with chances at Newton Abbot are Sonnengold (Bernard Llewellyn/ Isabel Tompsett) in the selling hurdle at 16.00 and Sushitan (Gary and Jamie Moore) in the novice hurdle at 17.00. The former has not run for 15 months, but faces very feeble opposition here, while the latter, who is very lightly raced, has the penalised Zafar (Tim Vaughan/ Richard Johnson), an easy winner at Bangor last week, to beat.

2 meetings in Ireland today

It is a public holiday in Ireland today and as a result we have two meetings this afternoon, with both Cork and Naas staging mixed cards. The best racing is at Cork, where the Group Three race for fillies and mares over 1 1/2 miles at 17.05 has attracted some good runners, including Beach Bunny (Kevin Prendergast/ Chris Hayes), who was only just touched off by Dar Re Mi in the Pretty Polly. Megan´s Star (Tommy Stack/ Willie Lee) has won her last 3 races but is moving up in grade here, while Shreyas (Jim Bolger/ Kevin Manning) faces a stiff task in giving weight away all round. The two big question marks here are Perfect Truth (Aidan O´Brien/ Johnny Murtagh) and Beauty O´Gwaun (John Oxx/ Fran Bery), who were last in the English and Irish Oaks respectively when last seen. The listed mile race half an hour earlier could lie between Georgebernardshaw (O´Brien/ Murtagh), Oh Goodness Me (Bolger/ Manning) and Latin Love (David Wachman/ Colm O´Donoghue), as Jumbojukiba (Jessica Harri ngton/ Fran Berry) may find the trip too far. Several of the top trainers also have runners at Naas, and Aidan O´Brien can pick up the 2yo maiden over 7 furlongs at 15.20 with the well-bred debutant Purple Heart. The hurdle race at 16.50 can go to Sher Why Not (Colm Murphy/ Ruby Walsh), an easy winner over fences last time out.