Punchestown on, Hereford off

After further inspections today´s meeting at Hereford has been abandoned, but the big Irish meeting at Punchestown has been given the green light and goes ahead.

Prix d´Amerique today at Vincennes

This column does not usually concern itself with trotting, but there is one exception- the last Sunday in January, the date for the world´s most important trotting race, the Prix d´Amerique at Vincennes. Today´s edition, with prize money of one million euros, and due to start at 15.50, has 18 runners and looks very open. Likely favourite is last year´s winner Meaulnes du Corta (Pierre Levesque), who has clearly been brought along this season with just this one race in mind. Most dangerous opponents could be the improving Rolling d´Heripre (Jean-Michel Bazire) and Ready Cash (Jos Verbeeck), both 5yo´s and thus relative youngsters. We will go along with the proven experience of Meaulnes du Corta.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Quactus Leman - Quemeu d`Ecublei - Nymphe Du Dollar
2. Race: Rodrigo Jet - Raz de Maree Honey - Reves De Magalou
3. Race: Rombaldi - Royale du Perthois - Riesling
4. Race: Rolling d`Heripre - Paris Haufor - Olga du Biwetz
5. Race: Pedrito Du Vallon - Quisling d`Anjou - Queroan de Jay
6. Race: Sanymede Tivoli - Scala Bourbon - Speedy Blue
7. Race: Palmyre - Pretty Jet - Queen Legend
8. Race: Trinite Des Vals - Touch Of Quick - Tiesolo d`Occagnes
9. Race: Scheherazade - Star d`Urzy - Source d`Amour

Irish racing today

By far the best N.H. racing today is at Punchestowns, but at the time of writing it is still unclear if the meeting will go ahead. There are only 5 runners in the Grade Two chase over 2 miles at 14.30, but they include two candidates for championship honours in Golden Silver (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) and Big Zeb (Colm Murphy/ Barry Geraghty). The latter has arguably the better form, but the former has improved tremendously and loves the heavy ground which could just swing things in his favour. The Grade Two novice hurdle at 16.00 should mainly concern top-weight Hollo Ladies (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) and Saludos (Jessica Harrington/ Robbie Power). The former came out on tóp when they last met, but the latter has a big pull in the weights this time and can reverse the form.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Heads Onthe Ground - Nelson`S Spice - Silver Birch
2. Race: Golden Silver - Big Zeb - Mansony
3. Race: Seabass - An Peinteir - Tiernan`S Terror
4. Race: Benefit Night - O`Muircheartaigh - Parsons Pistol
5. Race: Saludos - Hollo Ladies - Luska Lad
6. Race: Leading Diamonds - Guts For Garters - Grange Alainn
7. Race: Perfect Smile - Blackstairmountain - Recital Public
8. Race: Garlough - Daydah - Silent Picture

Hereford, Plumpton and Kempton (a.w.)

Should racing prove possible at Hereford, easily the most interesting race will be the novice chase at 16.05 in which Henrietta Knight´s big Cheltenham hope Somersby (Tony McCoy) faces 4 opponents, best of whom should be Den of Iniquity (Warren Greatrex/ Paddy Brennan) - a faller last time- and Epidavros (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson), in receipt of quite a bit of weight. However Somersby must win this to keep alive his claims for the "Arkle" for which he is currently second favourite.

At Plumpton, Charlie Mann and his jockey Noel Fehily could be the team to follow. German-bred Fin Vin de Leu, quite a useful flat handicapper for Mark Johnston, makes his hurdling debut at 14.45 CET and should go well, while King Brex at 15.15 and Bench Warrant at 16.15 have top-weight in their respective handicaps but still hold good chances. Best bet here could be Sure Josie Sure (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) in the mares novice hurdle at 15.45. She started at odds-on for a similar event last time but was brought down at the first; granted better luck she can recover those losses today.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Alhaque - Fin Vin De Leu - Blue Tango
2. Race: King Brex - Cockatoo - Marc Of Brilliance
3. Race: Sure Josie Sure - Megasue - Good Faloue
4. Race: Youngstown - Maktu - Kawagino
5. Race: Evella - Grands Crus - Ballycracken
6. Race: One Cornetto - Prince Louis - Stop The Show




At Kempton, where there are quite small fields, the best event is the conditions race over 7 furlongs at 16.55. Top-rated here is Aeroplane (David Evans/ George Baker), but he is running for the 7th time this month and is possibly getting a bit tired. Elna Bright (BR Johnson/ Liam Keniry) is in good form, having won two good handicaps, but they were both over 7 furlongs and he is trying this trip for the first time in ages. Our choice therefore is Fathsta (David Simcock/ Jim Crowley), behind Elna Bright last time, but who ran two good races over this CD in December. "Blue" horses seem to be doing well these days, and we hope to see Martin Dwyer land a double on Blue Zephry for his father-in-law Willie Muir at 15.35 and on Blue Lyric for Luca Cumani at 17.25.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Blue Zephyr - The Strig - American Light
2. Race: Boogie Waltzer - R Woody - Texas Queen
3. Race: Stonecrabstomorrow - Misaro - Dvinsky
4. Race: Aeroplane - Elna Bright - Orpenindeed
5. Race: Blue Lyric - Cuthbert - Egyptology
6. Race: Ocean Legend - Erinjay - Alqaahir

More weather woes

The return of wintry weather continues to cause problems for British and Irish racing. Today´s meetings at Hereford and Punchestown both look doubtful, and both courses have called for a second inspection later this morning, with frost still in the ground. Plumpton has passed an inspection and goes ahead, while there should be no problems at Limerick, although the ground will be very heavy.

Later: Cheltenham and Uttoxeter on!

Good news! Both Cheltenham and Uttexeter have been passed fit for racing this afternoon. We are still waiting to hear from Doncaster and Fairyhouse. Punters are advised to check for non-runners as there are certain to be plenty.

Inspections everywhere

The prospects for racing over jumps today in the U.K. and Ireland do not look too bright after overnight frost, and all 4 racecourses - Cheltenham, Doncaster, Uttoxeter and Fairyhouse (Ireland) have called for a second inspection later in the morning. The biggest problems would appear to be at Cheltenham, where the temperature dropped to -7 last night, and typically, of course, this track has easily the best card, with the so-called Trials Day for their big March Festival.

Cheltenham and Doncaster

if racing goes ahead, both these tracks offer a strong card, especially the former with its trials for the major championship races for the Festival at their next meeting in March. Paul Nicholls has two entries in the Argento Chase at 15.35 CET, Inchidaly (Ruby Walsh) and Taranis (Nick Scholfield), but whatever happens here is unlikely to affect betting on the Gold Cup, which is totally dominated by Nicholls´ two top stars, Kauto Star and Denman. Madison du Berlais (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) is the highest-rated in today´s field, but never seems to show his best form here, while Knowhere (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) and Joe Lively (Colin and Joe Tizzard) are past winners of this race, but do not appear to be in top form. Front-runner Carruthers (Mark Bradstock/ Mattie Batchelor) is probably the safest option here, but a watching brief is recommended.

Similarly Nicholls will probably not worry too much about the Cleeve Hurdle over 3 miles at 16.40, as none of the runners is likely to give his Big Bucks a hard race.The improving handicapper Lie Forrit (Willie Amos/ Campbell Gillies), course specialist and German-bred Fair Along (Philip Hobbs/ Rhys Flint) and Katchit (Alan KIng/ Jimmy McCarthy) look the likeliest winners here. Katchit, who also runs his best races here, famously won the Champion Hurdle two years ago,but has been struggling slightly ever since and now steps up to a much longer distance for the first time.

Despite having several fancied runners at Cheltenham, Nicky Henderson is planning on sending his stable jockey Barry Geraghty to Doncaster, where the duo can take the novice chase at 14.45 with Mad Max and then possibly Be There in Five, who has The Betchworth Kid (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson) to beat in the 3 mile novice hurdle at 15.50. The big betting race here is the Sky Bet Chase, 3 mile handicap at 16.25, which (in the unlikely event that they all run) has a field of 22 and almost as many winning chances. It has been a very quiet season for Henrietta Knight so far, but she runs her two stable stars this weekend, and is hopeful of taking this with top-weight Calgary Sound (Andrew Thornton), while her Arkle hope Somersby runs tomorrow at Hereford.

Cheltenham - betting forecast:
1. Race: Pistolet Noir - George Nympton - Good Lord
2. Race: Doctor Pat - Theatrical Moment - Five Dream
3. Race: Seven Is My Number - Exmoor Ranger - Perce Rock
4. Race: Carruthers - Madison Du Berlais - Inchidaly Rock
5. Race: General Miller - Royal Charm - Restless Harry
6. Race: Lie Forrit - Katchit - Mr Thriller
7. Race: Oldrik - Doeslessthanme - Quartano

Doncaster - betting forecast:
1. Race: Highest Start - Sonowyouno - Sir Harry Ormesher
2. Race: Mad Max - Quwetwo - You`Re The Top
3. Race: Bedlam Boy - Green Belt Elite - Battlecry
4. Race: The Betchworth Kid - Be There In Five - Possol
5. Race: Seven Is My Number - Theatrical Moment - Calgary Bay
6. Race: Amber Brook - Give It Time - Alegralil
7. Race: Sprinter Sacre - Eagle Owl - Management

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

More low level racing at today´s two all-weather meetings, with an unrelieved diet of poor handicaps and claiming races. The 3yo claimer over 5 furlongs at Lingfield at 15.50 should go to Wanshai Whisper (David Evans/ Andrew Heffernan), narrowly beaten at odds-on last time. Much more interesting is the handicap over the same trip at 17.00.

Anne of Kiev (Jeremy Gask/ Luke Morris) is lightly-raced, but she showed a good attitude to win at Wolverhampton 8 weeks ago and might be able to follow up. Billy Red (John Jenkins/ Fergus Sweeney) won last week, but that was over 6 furlongs, arguably his best distance. However our main hope is top-weight Wotashirtful (James Boyle/ Joe Fanning), who has won on his last 2 trips to Lingfield and can outclass this lot.

At Wolvtjamütp´stwöght mezing, tghe bsz rae is gai sprint handovap, this time ove 6 furlongs at 19.10. Only 6 tunrs, but quite tricky. Oldtimer Pawan (Ann Stokell) seems to reserve his best form for Southwell, so we go with the two bottom weights Ray of Joy (John Jenkins/ Jimmy Quinn) and Fen Spirit (John Gosden/ Robert Havlin), both third last time out. The 2 mile handicap at 20.10 is also difficult, with few of the runners guaranteed to get the trip, but Calculating (Mark Usher/ Lee Newnes) is in good form and should be inolved in the finish.

N.H. racing at Chepstow, Doncaster and Newbury

Despite some frost, there should be no problems with today´s 3 jumps meetings, though the ground is certain to be very soft at all of them. Newbury has the best card and once again it seems that Paul Nicholls and Nicky Henderson will dominate proceedings. They go head to head in the opening novice hurdle at 14.30 CET, with French import Robinson Collonges (Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) and easy Sandown winner Master of the Hall (Henderson/ Geraghty) are the two to beat.

It could be the same scenario in the handicap hurdle at 15.40, where they are represented by Special Occasion and Gold Award respectively. However this is quite a tricky race, German-bred L´Homme de Nuit (Gary Moore/ Phillip Hide) could run well, while top-weight Buena Vista (David Pipe/ Hadden Frost) has a definite chance in this grade; however Gold Award, owned by the Queen, won so well last time that he again gets the vote. Whatever happens in those races, Nicholls and Walsh should certainly win the novice chase at 15.05 with the smart Tataniano, who has only two opponents and needs only to jump round to win.

At Doncaster, the novice hurdle at 14.55 looks the most interesting race. Spring Jim (James Fanshawe/ Felix de Giles) and Moghaayer (Henderson/ Andrew Tinkler) have both win their only start over the sticks and look useful, but the one here is surely Barney Curley´s Sereth (Warren Marston). The son of Monsun wes a listed class stayer on the flat in Germany, and although he took his time to find form in the U.K., has now shown definite talent. Another German-bred, Heredias (George Baker/ Harry Haynes), has a squeak in the conditional jockeys handicap hurdle at 14.20, but with 20 runners, this is best treated with caution; a more likely winner, at much lower odds, is Barwell Bridge (Warren Greatrex/ Timmy Murphy), runner-up to the smart Advisor at Ascot last week, form which clearly gives him a great chance in the 4yo hurdle at 16.05.
At Chepstow, the novice chase at 15.20 should lie between Mobaasher (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) and Giles Cross (Vic Dartnall/ Tom O´Brien), but both need to brush up their jumping. Jonjo O´Neill and David Pipe have plenty of runners today, and can be rewarded here with Raise you Five (Robbie McLernon) at 15.55 and Peut Etre Sivola (Tom Scudamore) at 16.30 respectively.

N.H. racing at Ffos Las, Warwick and Thurles (Ireland)

While the big story today is undoubtedly the start of the Dubai Racing Carnival (see separate story), there is also plenty of racing in the U.K. and Ireland, although obviousy at a much lower level. At Warwick, the 2 1/2 mile novice chase at 15.55 CET is the main event with 6 runners. Gansey (Sue Smith/ Richard McGrath) has to give weight away all round, but still looks the most likely winner. With the Alan King stable now in form again, Bakbenscher (Wayne Hutchinson) is the clear danger.

The handicap hurdle over an extended 3 miles at 16.30 looks more open, and last-time-out winners Minella Boys (Charlie Longsdon/ Andrew Tinkler) and My Friend Sandy (Jim Old/ Timmy Murphy) look the ones to concentrate on. Two horses in top form clash in the handicap chase at 17.00 - Senor Shane (Charlie Gordon/ Colin Studd), who has won his last 3 races, and Noun de la Thinte (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), who has won her last 5 , including 2 in the last 10 days. Both have gone up in the weights, but still seem capable of further improvement and can dominate this event.

Surprisingly, most of the top jockeys are in action at the new Welsh track at Ffos Las. The Irish have already discovered the attractions of this course, and Gordon Elliott can land a double here with Definite All Star and Lady Roberta in the maiden hurdles at 14.25 and 15.30 respectively, both partnered by Jason Maguire. Several of the runners in the mares novice chase at 16.05 met in a similar race at Exeter before Christmas. On that occasion Caroles Legacy (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) won by a nose from Cool Friend (Jeremy Scott/ Nick Scholfield) by a nose, but the latter can now reverse the form on 6 lbs better terms.

There are couple of graded races at the Irish jumps meeting at Thurles.The powerful combination of Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh can take the 2 1/2 mile chase at 16.25 with Snowy Morning, and Ruby also rides an interesting newcomer for his father in the 4yo hurdle at 14.40, Hail Caesar, who last ran in the Grand Prix de Paris. Otherwise the day could belong to Davy Russell, who has winning opportunities on Cool Hand Luke at 15.15, Vinnies Friends at 15.50 and Tally Em Up at 16.55

N.H. racing at Ffos Las, Warwick and Thurles (Ireland)

while the big story today is undoubtedly the start of the Dubai Racing Carnival (see separate story), there is also plenty of racing in the U.K. and Ireland, although obviousy at a much lower level. At Warwick, the 2 1/2 mile novice chase at 15.55 CET is the main event with 6 runners. Gansey (Sue Smith/ Richard McGrath) has to give weight away all round, but still looks the most likely winner. With the Alan King stable now in form again, Bakbenscher (Wayne Hutchinson) is the clear danger.

The handicap hurdle over an extended 3 miles at 16.30 looks more open, and last-time-out winners Minella Boys (Charlie Longsdon/ Andrew Tinkler) and My Friend Sandy (Jim Old/ Timmy Murphy) look the ones to concentrate on. Two horses in top form clash in the handicap chase at 17.00 - Senor Shane (Charlie Gordon/ Colin Studd), who has won his last 3 races, and Noun de la Thinte (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), who has won her last 5 , including 2 in the last 10 days. Both have gone up in the weights, but still seem capable of further improvement and can dominate this event.

Surprisingly, most of the top jockeys are in action at the new Welsh track at Ffos Las. The Irish have already discovered the attractions of this course, and Gordon Elliott can land a double here with Definite All Star and Lady Roberta in the maiden hurdles at 14.25 and 15.30 respectively, both partnered by Jason Maguire. Several of the runners in the mares novice chase at 16.05 met in a similar race at Exeter before Christmas. On that occasion Caroles Legacy (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) won by a nose from Cool Friend (Jeremy Scott/ Nick Scholfield) by a nose, but the latter can now reverse the form on 6 lbs better terms.

There are couple of graded races at the Irish jumps meeting at Thurles.The powerful combination of Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh can take the 2 1/2 mile chase at 16.25 with Snowy Morning, and Ruby also rides an interesting newcomer for his father in the 4yo hurdle at 14.40, Hail Caesar, who last ran in the Grand Prix de Paris. Otherwise the day could belong to Davy Russell, who has winning opportunities on Cool Hand Luke at 15.15, Vinnies Friends at 15.50 and Tally Em Up at 16.55

All-weather racing at Southwell and Kempton

All-weather racing this afternoon at Southwell and a twilight meeting at Kempton, but very little quality on view. At Southwell, we expect the consistent Obe Gold (Paul Howling/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) to win the 6 furlongs seller at 15.45 CET, while Bookiesindex Girl (John Jenkins/ Robert Winston), a hot favourite when runner-up last time at Kempton, can recover those losses in the 3yo handicap at 16.20.

Jenkins also has a couple of good opportunities at Kempton, with Davids Mark (Simon Whitworth) in the 6 furlongs handicap at 17.55, Clever Omneya (Tom Queally) over 7 furlongs at 18.25 and, if he turns out again, Hollow Jo (Fergus Sweeney), who won yesterday at Lingfield. Best race here is the mile handicap at 20.25, which looks very open; Den´s Gift (Clive Cox/ Luke Morris), has been runner-up 3 times running, including when beaten in a photo this CD last week, and should be thereabouts.

Dubai Racing Carnival and the dawn of a new era

Today marks the start of the Dubai Racing Carnival, which runs until March and is followed by Dubai World Cup day on March 27th, and it is no exaggeration to describe it as the dawn of a new era. For the old racecourse at Nad Al Sheba has been demolished and the huge and luxurious (and very expensive) new racecourse nearby at Meydan has risen in its stead.

Despite the well-documented financial problems in Dubai, the track has been completed on time and at a dress rehearsal last received glowing reports from the jockeys taking part. Cynics might consider that these jockeys, most of them on the Maktoum payroll, would hardly utter a word of public criticism, but the fact is that this is a great achievement and the Carnival this year promises to be better than ever.

Today´s card starts with a race for Arab-breds, followed by 7 races, all highly competitive, for thoroughbreds. Main event is the Group Three mile race at 19.20 CET, the first round of the Al Maktoum Challenge. This is an exceptionally strong field, with Godolphin runnng two of the favourites- last year´s winner My Indy (Ted Durcan) and Midshipman (Frankie Dettori), and also includes the last two winners of Germany´s top mile race Lovelace (Mark Johnston/ Richard Hills) and Premio Loco (Chris Wall/ George Baker). Saeed bin Suroor usually gets off to a good start here and Midshipman is therefore our selection.

From the German point of view, the 9 1/2 furlongs handicap at 16.20 could be the most interesting race, as it sees a German contender at the start - Takhir (Peter Schirgen/ Andrasch Starke). He seems well-handicapped and is probably racing over his ideal distance, but is drawn on the wide outside. Nobody knows yet how the track will ride, but a wide draw is not normally an advantage.

There is no betting in Dubai and no tote odds, but British bookmakers will be betting on these races and bets will normally be settled at British industry SPs.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Santhal - No Risk Al Maury - Vite Royale
2. Race: Absolute Music - Talenta - Silver Grey
3. Race: Beauchamp Xerxes - Takhir - Bennie Blue
4. Race: Lion Sands - Princess Taylor - Bab Al Salam
5. Race: Sir Gerry - Rileyskeepingfaith - Good Control
6. Race: Sopranist - Topclas - With Interest
7. Race: My Indy - Premio Loco - Midshipman
8. Race: Mutheeb - Snow Runner - Leahurst

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

More modest racing at todays two all-weather meetings. All 7 races at Lingfield this afternoon are class 5 or 6. The mile handicap at 16.00 CET sees a rematch between top-weight Prince of Thebes (Mike Attwater/ Kieren Fox) and Hereford Boy (Dean Ivory/ Adam Kirby). The latter came out the winner when they met recently at Kempton, but Prince of Thebes has won nicely over this CD since then and can score again.

The lightly-raced On Terms(Simon Dow/ Hayley Turner) should run well in the 1 1/2 mile maiden at 16.30, but on overall form Freedom Fire (Gary Moore/ George Baker) can be preferred.

Moore and Baker (who flies off to Dubai after racing to ride Premio Loco at the opening fixture of Maydan´s Dubai Racing Carnival) have an even more interesting runner in a maiden race at Kempton´s twilight meeting. This is Fix the Rib, who makes his flat debut at the ripe old age of 7. He is a smart N.H. performer. having won 5 of his last 7 races and has been racing in top company. As long as he remembers not to jump, he should score here. The best race here is the 5 furlongs handicap at 1840. Rocket Rob (Marco Botti/ Andrea Atzeni) was a narrow winner at Wolverhampton last time, his first start for this trainer, and may be able to follow up, while the same trainer-jockey combination can also take the 3yo handicap at 20.40 with The Glamour Cat. Only 4 runners here, but all with good recent form.

N.H. racing at Huntingdon, Musselburgh and Navan (Ireland)

Easily the most interesting racing today comes from Huntingdon, where the main event is the novice chase over 3 miles at 16.30, which despite the small field looks very competitive. Mighty Man (Henry Daly/ Richard Johnson) was the best of these over hurdles and is the obvious favourite here, but faces strong opposition from German-bred Sullumo (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily), who was still in contention when falling last time, and possibly from Viking Rebel (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), even though he is coming off a break of 21 months. Mighty Man, whose stable has won this race for the past 3 seasons, ought to win but will need to be at his best.

Of almost equal interest are the two divisions of the novice hurdle which kick off the card. The second division features the Triumph Hurdle favourite Mille Chief, whose trainer Alan King has targetted this race with his top 4yo´s before. Following "Choc" Thornton´s heavy fall yesterday, it is not yet clear who will be in the saddle, but Mille Chief will probably start at long odds-on. The first division at 14.20 looks much more open and we shall certainly be watching Ostland (Charlie Longsdon/ Paddy Brennan), who was runner-up in the German Derby two years ago.

The card at Musselburgh is less inspiring, but Donald McCain and Jason Maguire can land a double here in the two divisions of the novice hurdle with Inventor at 14.10 and Miss Vertical half an hour later, while The Snail (Evan Williams/ Paul Moloney) bids for a five-timer in the handicap hurdle at 16.10. Rose Dobbin, who saddled her first winner as a trainer at the weekend, has the danger here with Broadway Star (Keith Renwick) and they can follow up half an hour later with German-bred Euro American.

There could also be a German-bred winner at Navan, as Prince of Fire (Charlie Swan/ David Casey) has an obvious chance in the hurdle race at 14.45. However Sweet Shock would appear to have little chance against form choice Acapulco (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) in the maiden hurdle half an hour later, as that one has been narrowly beaten in better company three times running. Ruby Walsh seems to ubiquitous these days and he can land a double on his father´s Seabass at 16.15 and Willie Mullins´ Palace Merano at 16.45.

Cagnes sur mer today

The Cagnes sur mer meeting continues today with 7 races, the last 6 on the fibregrass track. There are some huge fields so finding winners will not be easy. From the German point of view the most interesting event is the claiming race over 1300 metres at 15.40. 16 runners, of whom 9 ran in a similar race here a week ago, which was won by Werner Baltromei´s Ceodora (Dominique Boeuf), who now runs for the Perruchot stable.

However that was in our view an overpaced race, for which the headstrong Laokoon (Mario Hofer/ William Mongil) was party responsible. If he can settle better today, we think that he has excellent each-way chance in this company. The other German runner today is Hans Blume´s Marny (Boeuf) who runs in the conditions race over the same trip at 16.40. She twice ran well at Deauville, and although the stable´s runners have not yet shone at this meeting, she also has a good place chance now.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Desert Ocean - Royal Pennekamp - De Charpentier
2. Race: Suntil Bere - Enreve - Pick Well
3. Race: Queen Charmer - Dream`s Salsa - Princess Doha
4. Race: Marine Officer - The Living Room - Querry Boy
5. Race: Bonnie Prince Blue - Ceodora - Derison
6. Race: Richhill Lady - De Zephyr - Churriana
7. Race: Staraco - Pink Candie - Voie De Printemps

N.H. racing at Leicester and Sedgefield

Both today´s jumps meetings in the U.K. go ahead after early morning inspections, but the going will be very testing at both Sedgefield and Leicester. The latter track stages the more interesting racing, but only 4 line up for the best race, a novice chase over 2 1/2 miles at 15.40 CET. Cracboumwiz (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) is at 10 a bit old for a novice, but has a chance on his best form; he was pulled up last time, but the stable was going through a bad spell then while things have looked up in recent days.

The Polomoche (Nicky Henderson/ Andrew Tinkler) and Sunnyhillboy (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy) will however be no pushovers. We also expect Queen Poline (Lucy Wadham/ Leighton Aspell) to run well in the opening novice hurdle at 14.40, while the mares´ novice hurdle at 15.40 can go to the penalised Sure Josie Sure (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore). Ex-German Early Wings (Caroline Bailey/ Andrew Thornton) has been basically disappointing so far in the U.K. but can perhaps be given one more chance in the 3 mile handicap chase at 17.10.

There are some large fields at Sedgefield but not a great deal of quality. The most interesting race could be the handicap hurdle over 3 1/2 miles at 15.30. Our tentative choice is Toy Gun (Howard Johnson/ Ryan Mania) on account of the excellent stable form (3 winners again yesterday), but his stamina is unproven, which is bound to be an issue here. Top-weights And Whatever Else (Sue Smith/ AE Kinirons) and Paddys Tern (Kim Bailey/ Jason Maguire) also come into the reckoning.

All-weather racing at Southwell

Southwell stages the only all-weather racing today and by far the best race is the class 2 handicap over 6 furlongs at 15.50 CET, a very open affair with 9 runners, most of them with proven CD form. In a similar race here over a furlong further before Christmas Imprimis Tagula (Alan Bailey/ Robert Winston) ran out a very easy winner from Ingleby Arch (David Barron/ Phillip Makin) and Nightjar (Kevin Ryan/ Tom Eaves).

Imprimis Tagula was then in the middle of a purple patch but has shot up in the ratings and so we expect that result to be overturned today. Top-weight Aeroplane (David and Richard Evans) - having his 6th race in less than 3 weeks! - is very consistent, and could be a danger, as could Tourist (Derek Shaw/ Jimmy Quinn).

Another horse that enjoyed a long winning streak before Christmas is Shadows Lengthen (Mick Easterby/ James Sullivan) who won 5 successive races, 4 of them here and 2 of them over 1 1/2 miles, the distance of the handicap at 16.20 this afternoon. He is coming off a short break but still appears feasibly handicapped and he can win again for trainer Mick Easterby and jockey James Sullivan. The latter, a promising young apprentice, can also win the mile handicap at 15.20 on last-time-out CD winner Hit the Switch for trainer Pat Morris.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Cheery Cat - Fuzzy Cat - Dickie Le Davoir
2. Race: Madison Belle - Convince - Miss Xu Xia
3. Race: Hit The Switch - Bestowed - Provost
4. Race: Tourist - Aeroplane - Nightjar
5. Race: Shadows Lengthen - Profit`S Reality - Trachonitis
6. Race: Ghazwah - Bandstand - Apache Moon
7. Race: Wedding Dream - D`Urberville - Temple Fair

Cagnes sur mer today

The Cagnes sur mer meeting continues today and for a change the most interesting races are on the turf track. Main event is the conditions race over 2400 metres at 15.05, a trial for the big race of the meeting. In theory this should go to the 7yo Monsun mare La Boum (Robert Collet/ Thoms Huet) who has been running in good races and was an excellent 7th in the Arc.

The improving Wysiwyg Lucky (JL Gay/ Stephane Pasquier), who finished last season with 3 wins, looks the main danger. German hope Limatus, last seen when runner-up in the Langer Hamburger last June, faces a stiff task and this distance is probably too short for him. A more plausible German winner, especially considering the good stable form, is Werner Baltromei´s Mariston (Dominique Boeuf) in the 2150 metres claimer at 16.10.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Question d`Or - Vera`s Moscou - Djemilla
2. Race: Dianaba - Dunaden - Lone Rider
3. Race: Red And White - Lounak - Kalidoun
4. Race: La Boum - Wysiwyg Lucky - Rento
5. Race: L`Inconscient - Wango - Passing Chop
6. Race: Solitary - Mariston - Frere Bai
7. Race: Zenside - Loriedo - Badalonia

Newcastle and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

Today´s jumps meeting at Newcastle is an additional fixture to make up for the many abandonments in the north over the past month and ironically was itself almost lost to the weather. However it has now been given the green light, and the man to follow is clearly trainer Howard Johnson, who saddled 3 winners here a week ago. We rate his Washington Irving, who runs in the novice hurdle at 16.00 as the best thing of the day.

A smart horse on the flat when trained by Aidan O´Brien, and rated highly enough to be used as a pacemaker in the English and Irish Derby, he made an excellent start to his hurdling career when winning easily on his debut over the sticks and should remain unbeaten. Other possible winners for the stable are Stormy Weather at 14.15, Door Boy at 14.50 and Blacks Bridge at 15.25. Unfortunately it is not yet clear who will be riding these horses, as stable jockey Denis O´Regan broke his collar-bone in a fall in Ireland yesterday and will be out of action for about a month.

There is the usual modest card at Wolverhampton´s all-weather track. Best bet here should be Robert Cowell´s Marosch in the 3yo handicap over 7 furlongs at 14.45. He was a very easy winner this CD last week and a 6 lbs penalty should not stop him going in again. The handicap for older horses over the same trip at 17.05 looks much more tricky. There are question-marks over several of these runners, and Rubensstar (Pat Morris/ Stevn Craine), 3rd at Lingfield on Friday, and Carnivore (David Barron/ Jim Crowley), who has a good record here and was a close third at Kempton last time, look the safest options.

Fontwell and Lingfield

Two jumps meetings on very heavy ground in the south of England today, and the most interesting races are at Fontwell. It is rather surprising to find Paul Nicholls targeting this meeting, but he has 4 runners here, all partnered by Ruby Walsh and all with chances. The fascinating one is certainly Tricky Trickster, who contests the opening novice hurdle over 3 miles 3 furlongs at 14.05 CET.

He is having his first race for the stable (previously Nigel Twiston-Davies) and has not been seen since winning a 4 mile chase at the Cheltenham festival last March. He has been entered for the Gold Cup (!) and although that is almost certainly beyond him, this race should be no problem. The other Nicholls/ Walsh runners -The Nightingale in the beginners chase at 15.35, Gullible Gordon in the novice chase at 15.45 and Aldertune in the handicap hurdle at 16.20- also have good chances, though none of them is actually bomb-proof.

Lingfield stages one of its rare N.H. meetings today and we expect Noun de la Thinte (Venetia Williams/ William Biddick) to complete a quick five-timer in the opening handicap chase for conditional jockeys at 14.25. This one has improved such a lot this winter that a total rise of 15 lbs in the weights for his 4 wins - all on soft/ heavy ground and 3 over today´s distance of 2 1/2 miles -should not stop him scoring again. The best betting race here is the 3 mile handicap chase at 16.45, in which almost all the 10 runners can be given a chance. Our tentative choice is heavy ground specialist Temoin (Richard Phillips/ Roddy Greene).

Market Rasen, Towcester and Kempton (a.w.)

today´s British action is very low level compared to yesterday, or to the Irish racing this afternoon. Philip Hobbs and Richard Johnson can take the beginners chase at 15.40 CET at Market Rasen with Bluesun, the form of whose third place last time at Exeter has been well boosted since. Also here, last time-out-winner Toulouse Express (Bob Johnson/ Paul Callaghan) can follow up in the handicap chase at 16.20, while the handicap hurdle at 17.15 should also concern two recent winners Young Buddy (Malcolm Jefferson/ Kyle James) and Home she Goes (Charlie and Adam Pogson).
At Towcester, at novice hurdle at 16.25 looks the best race. DInarius (Andrew Hales) has quite decent form, but as the only previous winner has to give weight away all round, so Samurai Way (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), brought down when well fancied last time, bumper winner Hidden Keel (Charlie Longsdon/ Paddy Brennan) or Oh No Not Harry (Ian Williams/ Sam Thomas) can all be preferred. Lucy Wadham has her string in good form and can win the beginners chase at 16.55 with Chaim (Leighton Aspell).
5 of the 6 races at Kempton´s all-weather fixture are very tricky handicaps. The 7 furlongs race at 17.05 looks the best of them. South African-bred Glow Star (Gary Moore/ George Baker) has not yet won in the U.K. but seems well handicapped, while Vhujon (David Evans/Paul Dow) is very consistent, likes this track, but has not won for a long time. In a very open race we give slight preference to Indian Skipper (Richard Guest/ Jim Crowley), who is well drawn and was a CD winner on his penultimate start.

Betting forecast Market Rasen:
1. Race: Premier Sagas - L`Eldorado - Jackday
2. Race: Lets Go Girls - Conington - Soprano
3. Race: Bluegun - Mirage Dore - Pheidias
4. Race: Toulouse Express - Quazy De Joie - Original Fly
5. Race: Amir Pasha - Dreams Jewel - Mohayer
6. Race: Young Buddy - Home She Goes - Lindseyfield Lodge

top N.H. action in Ireland today

the spotlight moves today to Ireland and in particular Leopardstown where there is an extremely strong card with the Irish Champion Hurdle at 15.45 CET as the main feature. There should be plenty of Cheltenham clues here as the field includes the 2009 runner-up Celestial Halo (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) and the 2007 winner Sublimity (Robbie Hennessey/ Philip Carberry). However the one to beat should be heavy ground specialist Solwhit (Charlie Byrnes/ Davy Russell), who holds Sublimity on latest form and has won 7 of his last 9 races. Donnas Palm (Noel Meade/ Barry Geraghty), moving up in grade after winning 4 of his last 5 races, must also be considered.
The "Irish Arkle" novice chase at 14.45 is also a Grade One affair with another strong challenger from the Paul Nicholls stable - Take the Breeze (Tony McCoy), who loves this ground and has won his last 3 races in spectacular style. Ruby Walsh now partners Willie Mullins´ Sports Line, who has also won his last 3 races, while Zaarito (Colm Murphy/ Denis O´Regan) also comes into the mix. Mullins and Walsh also have good prospects in the Grade Two novice hurdle at 16.20 with Quel Esprit, while we expect ex-German Le Marquis (Tony Martin/ David Casey) to run well in the handicap hurdle at 16.50 and Dermot Weld, who had a double here yesterday

rest of U.K. and Ireland

there is also some competitive jumps racing from Wincanton and Leopardstown, as well as all-weather racing from Lingfield. The Wincanton Cup, a handicap chase over 3 miles1 1/2 furlongs at 14.35 CET, looks very open. German-bred Pretty Star (Venetia Williams/ William Biddick) is very consistent and could be involved, but Tarquinius (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) and Mark the Book (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) appear the more likely winners. Hobbs and Johnson have another good chance in the following handicap hurdle with Volador, where another German-bred Fredo (Ian Williams/ Mike Murphy) could be the danger. The handicap chase at 16.00 could do to Amble Forge, from the in-form Tizzard stable.

Betting forecast Wincanton:
1. Race: Strategic Plan - The Rainbow Hunter - Mister Pous
2. Race: Tarquinius - Mark The Book - Fine By Me
3. Race: Volador - Badger Foot - Global Flyer
4. Race: Amble Forge - Magot De Grugy - Double Eagle
5. Race: Double Hit - Emergency Exit - Whatever Next
6. Race: Recif de Thaix - Vino Griego - Zazamix

N.H. stars in action today at Ascot and Haydock

Most leading N.H. trainers are trying to make up for lost time today by running several of their top Cheltenham hopes at Ascot and/or Haydock. This is particularly true of Nicky Henderson ; as you can´t be in two places at once, it will be interesting to see where he goes today - to watch champion hurdler Punjabi (Barry Geraghty) at Haydock or his top 2-miler Petit Robin (Tony McCoy) at Ascot. The latter goes for the Grade One Victor Chandler Chase at 15.40 CETand faces tough opposition from two German-breds Twist Magic (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) and Well Chief (David Pipe/ Timmy Murphy). We would love to see Well Chief win, but the ground may be against him, and he was held by Petit Robin last time, while Twist Magic was most impressive at Sandown, but does not always shine here.
Also at Ascot, the Grade Two mares hurdle at 15.05 should go to Whiteoak (Donald McCain/ Murphy), who has to concede weight all round but is clear best on ratings. Strawberry (Henderson/ McCoy) and Sweetheart (Jamie Poulton/ Mattie Batchelor) - runner-up here last year- can follow her home. The limited handicap hurdle at 16.10 is a real puzzle with 17 runners, 3 of them trained by David Pipe- top-weight Lough Derg (Tom Scudamore), who can never be left out at this track and has won this race the last two years, Ashkazar (Murphy) and Mamlook (Hadden Frost), although the likely favourite is Qosak ( Nicholls/ Walsh). This one trotted up at Taunton on Thursday, and although it is unlike the champion trainer to run a horse twice in 3 days, he is expected to follow up and go on to better things.
There are some small fields at Haydock - only 4 runners in the 3 best races- but the qulity more thn maks up for the lak of quantity. Punjabi can win the Champion Hurdle Trial at 15.55, but is no certainty, while Diamond Harry is an exciting newcomer in the Grade Two novice chase at 15.20. The Peter Marsh handicap chase over 3 miles at 16.30 is another excellent race. Mon Mome (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) won the Grand National, but we cannot fancy him at these weights and prefer Cloudy Lane (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire), who won this last year and runs his best races here.

Betting forecast Ascot:
1. Race: Reindeer Dippin - Bormo - Teddy`S Reflection
2. Race: Advisor - Barwell Bridge - Heez A Cracker
3. Race: Whiteoak - Strawberry - Amber Brook
4. Race: Twist Magic - Petit Robin - Well Chief
5. Race: Stravinsky Dance - Micheal Flips - Qozak
6. Race: Ellerslie George - Will Be Done - Piraya
7. Race: Volador - Lush Life - Billie Magern



Betting forecast Haydock:
1. Race: Radium - Peddlers Cross - Scriptwriter
2. Race: Sherwoods Folly - Mark The Book - Huka Lodge
3. Race: Diamond Harry - Knockara Beau - Bensalem
4. Race: Punjabi - Medermit - Cape Tribulation
5. Race: According To Pete - Prince De Beauchene - Fortification
6. Race: Fabulous Fred - Larks Lad - Glenwood Knight

at last! a full programme today

for the first time this year there is a full programme today with 5 meetings, including high class jumps racing from Ascot and Haydock. The ground is expected to be very soft to heavy everywhere, and especially testing at Haydock.

More German chances at Cagnes

The Cagnes sur mer meering continues today with German-trained runners in 4 of the 7 races. In the opening tiercé handicap over 2000 metres, Royal Pepper (Mario Hofer/ Gaetan Masure), Lasse (Pavel Vovcenko/ Davy Bonilla) and Naxon (Werner Balromei) are all engaged, but this race looks very difficult. Part of Pentire (Baltromei/ Dominique Boeuf) runs in the mile claimer for 4yo´s at 15.05, while another claimer for older horses over the same trip at 16.10 sees Daudet (Hans Blume/ Romain Perruchot), Manaba (Baltromei/ Boeuf) and Noblement (Hofer/ Mongil) all entered. These races are all on the fibresand track, but the 2 mile conditions race at 15.40 in which Blue Citadel (Hofer/ Boeuf) runs, is on grass. The Germans, and especially Baltromei, have made a great start to the meeting and more winners are possible today; in our view Daudet has the best chance of these.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Marcus - Queenwell - L`Impressioniste
2. Race: Stareel - Arriba Arriba - Formalite
3. Race: Tigron - All Ways To Rome - Outer Continent
4. Race: Damacita - Maria Eva - Kandalek
5. Race: Babarazzi - Poincon de France - Excentrique
6. Race: Austria - Daudet - Shalamara
7. Race: Angel of Rain - Singapore Quest - Vittoria Vetra

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

More low-level racing at today´s two all-weather meetings, and all 8 races at Lingfield are class 5 or 6. Horses in this grade are not usually the most reliable, but an exception is Party in the Park (James Boyle/ Matthew Davies) in the mile handicap at 13.30 CET. He has been runner-up 6 times in his last 7 races and must surely get his head in front sometime, possibly today.

Another that has finished second a lot is Shaded Edge (David Arbuthnot / Hayley Turner) in the 7 furlongs handicap here at 15.00. He was just touched off last time by course specialist Rubensstar (Pat Morris/ Steven Craine) and meets that one on better terms now; Divine Force (Michael Wigham/ Simon Whitworth), who is going for a January hat-trick, is the obvious danger.

At Wolverhamptons twilight meeting, the main event is a conditions race over 9 1/2 furlongs at 18.35. The very consistent Aeroplane (David Evans/ Jamie Spencer) has also finished runner-up 3 times already this year, but preference is for Blue Bajan (Andrew Turnell/ Paul Hanagan). He is best known as a hurdler, but is also useful on the flat and is officially best in at the weights. German-bred Carmenero (Conor Dore/ Liam Keniry) finally came back to form with an easy CD win last week and a 6 lbs penalty may not stop him following up in the 7 furlongs handicap at 20.05. We also expect the all-conquering stable of Mark Johnston to land a double here with Duellist in the maiden at 19.05 and Capricornus in the 3yo handicap half an hour later, with Joe Fanning in the saddle of both.

Catterick today

Catterick now stages the only jumps racing today, and after Howard Johnson and Denis O´Regan landed a treble at Newcastle on Wednesday (the first N.H racing in the north of England for a month!) this could once again be the team to follow. Fortysecond Street can take the beginners chase at 14.20 CET for them and they also have good chances in the better handicaps with Percussionist (don´t forget he was 4th in the Derby 6 years ago!) at 14.50 and Canada Street over fences half an hour later. Milans Mill in the 3 mile novice hurdle at 15.55 could be another winner for the stable, although on this occasion we prefer Tilt (Brian Ellison/ Keith Mercer), who was a decent stayer on the flat and kept on well when winning here over shorter on his hurdling debut. Drever Street can round off a good day for the Howard Johnson stable by taking the 2 mile handicap chase at 16.30.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Royal Flynn - Mardood - Authentic Act
2. Race: Fortysecond Street - King Fontaine - John Forbes
3. Race: Percussionist - Vasodilator - War Party
4. Race: Dawn Ride - Canada Street - Shrewd Investor
5. Race: Tilt - Milans Man - Persian Gates
6. Race: Drever Route - Jim Tango - Bamby
7. Race: Vannin - Allow Me - Carpincho

All-weather racing at Southwell and Wolverhampton

More run of the mill racing at today´s two all-weather meetings. The best race at Southwell is the mile handicap at 15.20 CET, which has 14 runners and looks wide open. Transmission (Bryan Smart/ Tom Eaves), Ours (John Harris/ Barry McHugh) and Hit the Switch (Pat Morris/ James Sullivan) all won at this track recently and perhaps one of them can follow up.

An interesting runner here is Dubai Creek (Donald McCain/ Paul Hanagan), who is trained at a top jumping stable. He was noted running on well here last time over 1 mile 3 furlongs and can win the maiden race over a furlong further at 15.50, as the opposition does not look that strong.

At Wolverhampton´s twilight meeting, the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 18.50 looks the best event. Top-weight Baylini (Jacqui Doyle/ Adam Kirby) is a useful performer in this grade, but may find the trip too far, and we prefer Paktolos (John Harris/ Mark Coumbe), who won here over further just two days ago, and Dance the Star (Davod Simcock/ Jamie Spencer), whose trainer and jockey are in good form. The 6 furlongs handicap an hour earlier is also quite a decent race.Onceuponatime (Michael Squance/ Luke Morris) won over this CD recently and is still nicely weighted, but our choice is top-weight Vhujon (David and Richard Evans), who has not won for a long time but has frequently run well in better races.

N.H. racing at Taunton and Gowran Park (Ireland)

with Ludlow off, there are now two jumps meetings today, at Taunton in SW England and Gowran Park in Ireland. Taunton is Paul Nicholls´ local track and the champion trainer has several fancied runners today. The German-bred Ghizao (Timmy Murphy) in division two of the novice hurdle at 14.30 CET looks his best chance; after winning twice he was runner-up to the smart General Miller at Cheltenham, easily the best form on offer here.

Express Leader (Christian Williams) in another novice hurdle over a slightly longer trip at 15.30 also has a good chance and gets weight from his principal opponent Wishfull Thinking (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), who was fancied in a stronger race at yesterday´s abandoned Newbury fixture. Qozak (Williams) can also go close in the handicap hurdle at 16.00, though he has been off the track since the Grand National meeting. However his form looks strong, and he was successful on both his runs here. The obvious danger is Novikov (David Evans/ Roddie Greene) who showed good speed to win at Kempton last Saturday.

The big betting race of the day is the Thyestes Chase over 3 miles, one of Ireland´s best handicaps, at 15.35at Gowran Park with a full field of 20 runners, including top-weight Preists Leap (Thomas O´Leary/ John Cullen), who has won this race for the past two seasons. However he does not look so well handicappd now and we expect that the winner will be trained by Willie Mullins. Unfortunately he has 5 runners, all with top jockeys booked, so the choice is not easy. Ruby Walsh partners Beroni, who has won his last 3 races (two over hurdles) so he is presumably the stable´s number one, but is by no means certain to come out on top in a very tricky race. Lochan Lacha (Tony Martin/ Robbie Colgan) looks very dangerous off a low weight. The other big race here, the Grade Two hurdle over 3 miles at 14.35 has only 4 runners, 3 of whom met last time in a similar race at the Leopardstown Christmas meeting. On that occasion Powerstation (Eamonn O´Connell/ Tony McCoy) came out on top, with Oscar Dan Dan (Tom Mullins/ Davy Russell) second and War of Attrition (Mouse Morris/ Niall Madden) fourth. The weights have changed slightly, but the result may still be the same.

Baltromei to celebrate at Cagnes

Werner Baltromei was rather sceptical last week when asked about his prospects for the winter flat meeting at Cagnes sur mer, but in fact has made a great start with two winners already from only three starters. Today he can celebrate in any case, as it is his birthday, but he also has four runners with chances so there could well be other reasons.

In the opening tiercé handicap over 2000 metres at 13.35 he saddles Tiger Village and in the second division at 16.40 Astronom; he also runs Enzio in a mile conditions race at 15.05 and Sumatra Tiger in a handicap over 1500 metres at 16.10. In view of the good stable form, we expect all of these to run well, with Enzio having perhaps the best chance. All these races are run on the all-weather track and all 4 runners will be partnered by Dominique Boeuf.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Question d`Or - Huangdi - Djemilla
2. Race: Mr Jeremy - Around Me - She Say`s
3. Race: Kaldoun City - Execution - Wango
4. Race: Surdoue - Film Set - Enzio
5. Race: Theorique - Trombine - Serenitea
6. Race: Al Kaoun - Sumatra Tiger - Le Boss
7. Race: Supreme Eria - Astronom - Solitary

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

Two more low-level all-weather meetings today, and Jamie Spencer could well be the jockey to follow. At Lingfield this afternoon he can land a double on Kevin Ryan´s Wicked Daze in the 2 mile claimer at 14.20 (he won narrowly over 1 1/2 miles last time but this trip is better) and Jo Crowley´s Basra in the 10 furlongs handicap at 5.30. This is quite an open heat wth 14 runners, but Basra, only narrowly beaten here last time, likes this track and in fact won this race last year. He needs to be held up for a late run and Spencer has few masters of such tactics.

Several of the jockeys riding here move on to Kempton`s twilight meeting and Spencer can land another double here with David Simcock´ s Ilie Nastase in the mile claimer at 18.30 and Ed Vaughan´s Audemar in the mile handicap at 19.00. Consistent Den´s Gift (Clice Cox/ Adam Kirby) looks the main danger in the latter event. Russian Musíc (Ian Williams/ Stephen Donohoe) can complete a quick four-timer in the 2 mile handicap here at 19.30, but he is racing for the first time at Kempton and faces better opposition this time, so both Dani´s Girl (Pat Phelan/ Kieran Fox) and bottom-weight Moonbeam Dancer (David Simcock/ Nicky Mckay) coud prove troublesome.

N.H. racing at Newbury, Newcastle and Punchestown (Ireland)

the going seems certain to be very testing for today´s 3 jumps meetings and punters are advised to stick to horses proven in the conditions. There are only 4 runners in the novice chase at 14,30 CET at Newbury, all with good form, and the best of them probably You´re the Top (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), who has won his last 4 races (3 over hurdles).

However he has never raced on ground as soft as this, and it may be worth taking a chance with Copper Bleu (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), who has won on the heavy and is also a CD winner. It could well be a successful afternoon for the Hobbs/ Johnson combination, as they also have decent prospects with Wishfull Thinking in the novice hurdle at 15.05 (where once again the Henderson/ Geraghty hope Master of the Hall looks the most dangerous opponent) and Calusa Crystal in the mares novice chase at 16.50

At Newcastle, Wymott (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) is regarded as a good prospect and should win the novice hurdle over 3 miles at 14.40; he won well last time and should stay this extra distance. The handicap chase over the same trip at 15.15 looks quite open, but Welsh raider Quattrocento (Peter Bowen/ Tom O´Brien) seems the logical choice after an easy win last time at Ffos Las. German-bred Safin (Sue Bradburne/ Giles Hawkins) is not the most consistent but goes well on the heavy and must have an outside each-way chance in the conditional jockeys handicap hurdle at 15.50.

Main feature at Punchestown is the Grade Three juvenile hurdle at 15.35. This should lie between Doctor Deejay (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) and Pittoni (Charlie Byrnes/Paul Carberry). Byrnes can also take the handicap chase at 14.235 with The Dew at Night (Davy Russell), CD winner last time, while Mullins and Walsh should in any case win the hurdle race at 15.00 with Mourad. Kylebeg Krystle (Denis and DG Hogan) was an easy winner on Sunday at Thurles after being heavily backed, and can follow up for a quick double at 16.10. It is rare to find an English-trained runner going for a midweek meeting in Ireland, but the form shown by Nigel Twiston-Davies´ Frascati Park is far superior to that of any of his opponents in the maiden hurdle at 16.45 and the booking of Ruby Walsh shows that the stable means business.

Naas (Ireland) and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

Easily the best racing in Britain and Ireland today comes from Naas, where the abandoned meeting from last Saturday is being repeated. Main event is the Grade Two novice chase at 15.05 CET, in which there are unfortunately only 4 runners, with Alpha Ridge (Paul Nolan/ Ruby Walsh) and Oscar Looby (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) clearly holding the best chances. There are also 4 runners in the main supporting feature, a listed hurdle race at14,35, in which Meade saddles two runners, Muirhead (Paul Carberry) and the German-bred Wild Passion. The latter has plenty of ability, but has only run once in the past 3 years, so Muirhead, an outsider for the Champion Hurdle, is a confident selection.

At Wolverhampton the racing is very modest. The "best" race is the staying handicap at 16.20, where any of the 6 runners could win; we expect to see bottom-weight Calculating (Mark Usher/ David Probert), very consistent on th all-weather, finish close up. The fillies handicap half an hour later over 7 furlongs features two hat-trick seeekrs, top-weight Diapason (Tom Dascombe/ Richard Kingscote) and Goodbye Cash (David Evans/ Andrew Heffernan), of whom the former is preferred. Priti Fabulous, whose trainer Alan McCabe and jockey Declan Cannon are in good form, could run well here at at big price. Our best bet of the day is Jan Mayen (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), who was only narrowly beaten on his debut despite running green, and can now take the maiden race over 8 1/2 furlongs at 17.20.

Folkestone and Southwell

Two very modest N.H. cards today at Folkestone and Southwell with some very small fields, especially at the former track. 6 are entered in the novice handicap chase there at 15.10, which looks a match between Rince Donn (Roger Curtis/ Mark Grant) and She´s Humble (Linda Jewell/ Andrew Thornton), who won a similar race at the weekend and can complete a quick double. Tony McCoy is riding here and can possibly take the 4yo hurdle at 15.40 on hurdling debutant Open Day and the 3 mile handicap chase at 16.40 on Rapid Increase, an easy winner last time, both trained by Jonjo O´Neill.

Ar Southwell, the two divisions of the novice hurdle could be the most interesting races. Crystal Rock (Nicky Henderson/ Felix de Giles) is clearly not the brightest star in his large stable but could still be good enough to take the first division at 14.00, while Tocca Ferro (Emma Lavelle/ Jack Doyle) ran well, despite making mistakes, in better company last time and can win the second division half an hour later. Two German-breds that could run well here, especially if the going is not too soft, are Bright Sparky (Mick Easterby/ Oliver Greenall) in the handicap chase at 14.30 and Königsbote (Mrs. Leech/ Paddy Brennan) in the handicap hurdle at 16.30.

Cagnes sur mer today

The Cagnes sur mer flat meeting continues today, and after the German runners did better than expected on Saturday, we should perhaps have a closer look at today´s two Germans- Satier (Mario Hofer/ Dominique Boeuf) in the conditions race over 2000 metres at 14.50 and Present in Heaven (Werner Baltromei/ Boeuf) in the 1500 metres handicap for 4yo´s at 16.25. Both have decent form in this grade to their credit, but may need the run.

The Germans are not the only raiders on the Riviera and for our best bet of the day we take the English-trained Lost Soldier Three (David Nicholls/ Romain Perruchot) in the 2400 metres claimer for "jeunes jockeys" at 15.55.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Anvers - Printemps D`Alsace - Becagand
2. Race: Peinted Song - Silver Black - Rugia Bomba
3. Race: Rento - Tuaoi - Tangaspeed
4. Race: Agnes Champ - Chicaya - Crossbill
5. Race: Shin Kan Sen - Shahdawar - Sham Risk
6. Race: Hiram Gri - Present Of Heaven - Maille Perfect
7. Race: Meora - Douceur Nocturne - All Night Blues

Thurles (Ireland) and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

Main event at the Irish N.H. meeting at Thurles (carried over from last week) is the Grade Three chase over 2 1/4 miles at 14.55. For a graded race, this is not particularly strong field and it could go to Moskova (Paul Nolan/ Ruby Walsh). Walsh can do no wrong at the moment and can also win the beginners chase at 14.25 on Willie Mullins´ Kempes and the handicap chase at 16.05 on his father´s Seabass. Larkwing (Eric McNamara/ RJ Jones) won well last time and can follow up off a very light weight in the 2 3/4 mile chase at 15.55.

Wolverhampton´s all-weather card this afternoon is very low standard, and surprisingly 5 of the 7 races are restricted to 3yo´s. With some very small fields and little form to go on, most of these races are not punter-friendly. Rock a Doodle (William Jarvis/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) finished strongly when runner-up last time and can go one better in the 9 1/2 furlongs handicap at 16.20 CET, and the same jockey can complete a double on David Evans´ Tuscan King in the claimer over an extended mile half an hour later, though neither is likely to start at attractive odds.

Fakenham and Plumpton

The big guns are out today at Fakenham, where both Paul Nicholls and Nicky Henderson saddle several runners, and it will be a surprise of they both return home empty-handed. Nicholls´ best chance would appear to be Massasoit (Christian Williams) in the beginners chase at 15.30 CET, while Henderson can take the novice hurdle at 16.00 with Kerada (though Hellfire Club, looking the winner when he fell at the last last time could be a big danger) and the handicap chase at 16.30 with Zanzibar Boy, both ridden by Barry Geraghty.

The two trainers go head to head in the novice chase at 15.00 with Five Dream (Nicholls/ Williams) and German-bred First Point (Henderson/ Geraghty), but another German-bred here Victoria´s Groom (Lucy Wadham/ Leighton Aspell) also has a chance. The most interesting German-bred here is Barney Curley´s Agapanthus (Paul Moloney); the one-time Schlenderhan classic hope runs in the opening maiden hurdle at 14.30. His recent efforts on the flat have been very disappointing, so it hard to know how he will fare on his first race over sticks.

The German-bred with the best prospects today is however Salden Licht (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) in the novice hurdle at 14.40 at Plumpton. He was listed class on the flat for André Fabre and Baron Ullmann, and made an excellent start over hurdles for his new connections. However there are two factors against him today; one is the continuing poor stable form, the other the fact that he is set to give away lots of weight, notably 17lbs to the 4yo Hunterview (David Pipe/Tom Scudamore), who was also pretty useful on the flat. Under the circumstances we prefer the latter, who could kickstart a successful day for the Pipe/ Scudamore combination, who also have good chances with Epee Celeste, another 4yo getting weight from older horses, in the novice hurdle at 15.40, Painter Man, top-weight in the handicap chase at 16.10 and The Pious Prince in the staying handicap chase half an hour later.

Ffos Las (N.H.) and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

Unfortunately Ffos Las are unable today to stage the Welsh Champion Hurdle, which would have been the feature of last week´s abandoned meeting, but they still have quite a decent card, headed by the 2 mile handicap chase at 16.20 CET. Consistent Oiseau de Nuit (Colin Tizzard/ Giles Hawkins) is arguably the form choice here, but bottom-weight Saphir des Bois (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy) looks very dangerous. The latter finished well in front of German-bred Moon over Miami (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) at Cheltenham last time, but that one is notoriously unreliable these days and on a good day can always spring a surprise. nothr Grrmn-brdd wih prospcts is Vforvictory (Donld McCain/ Json Mguire) in the midn hurdl t 14.35; this one would 3 Irish point-to-poimnts last win ter but has not been seen since.

The big betting race here is the handicap hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 15.50. Top-weight Galaxy Rock (O´Neill/ McCoy) won well over CD last time and is one for the short list, as are Irish raider Barcardero (Gordon Elliott/ Maguire) and Gold Award (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty).

Easily the best race on a modest card at Wolverhampton is the 5 furlongs handicap at 17.10, another very open affair. Top-weight Matsunosuke (Barney Coogan/ Tony Culhane) is a very useful sprinter, but at these weights we prefer Earlsmedic (Steve Williams/ Andrea Atzeni), Peak District (Kevin Ryan/ Jimmy Quinn), third over this CD on Thursday, and Nickle Silver (Bryan Smart/ Tom Eaves), runner-up last time at Southwell.

Ffos Las - betting forecast:
1. Race: Meath All Star - Vforvictory - Babysitter
2. Race: Blazing Bailey - Special Envoy - Pennek
3. Race: Gold Award - Barcardero - Galaxy Rock
4. Race: Oiseau De Nuit - Saphir Des Bois - Enlightenment
5. Race: The Hudnalls - Knock Em Dead - King Of Castile
6. Race: Benarchat - Our Aodh - Bay Central

Wolverhampton - betting forecast:
1. Race: Texas Queen - Il Forno - American Light
2. Race: Wanchai Whisper - Magenta Strait - Zelos Dream
3. Race: Sonny Sam - Law Of The Jungle - No Wonga
4. Race: King`S Jester - Always The Sun - Kirstys Lad
5. Race: Matsunosuke - Earlsmedic - Peak District
6. Race: Feel The Magic - Vilnius - Scintillating

Irish racing today

The fixture at Cork has been abandoned, but there are still two Irish N.H. meetings today, at Fairyhouse and Thurles (an additional fixture), with very heavy going expected at both. Main event is the Grade Two Norman Grove Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 14.30 CET. Only 5 runners here, two of them trained by Willie Mullins with Scotsirish, the choice of Ruby Walsh, his best chance. Rare Bob (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood), not seen since winning over 3 miles at Punchestown in April, and Aran Concerto (Noel Meade/ Davy Condon) look the dangers. The beginners chase over the same trip half an hour later should be an informative event, and once again the top stables of Mullins with Cousin Vinny (Walsh) and Meade with Nicanor (Condon) should dominate.

Mullins can also score at Thurles with Rhyl Accord (Paul Townend), who should take the novice hurdle at 15.55, while Golden Sunbird (Paul Nolan/ Aidan Cawley), a hot favourite when just touched off last time, can recover those losses in the mares maiden hurdle at 14.15. These are the first Irish meetings of the year and in view of the weather hold-up and heavy ground, punters are advised to be cautious.

Fairyhouse - betting forecast:
1. Race: Rivage d`Or - Arvika Ligeonniere - Monastrell
2. Race: Grange Alainn - Last Draw - The Hurl
3. Race: Rare Bob - Aran Concerto - Scotsirish
4. Race: Cousin Vinny - An Cathaoir Mor - Nicanor
5. Race: All The Cousins - Bronx Boy - Chief Oscar
6. Race: Saddlers Storm - Scavenger - Mcalpine
7. Race: Up Ou That - Gormanstown Cuckoo - Romanesco

Thurles - betting forecast:
1. Race: Are You The One - Sounds Of Jupiter - Our Nana Rose
2. Race: Golden Sunbird - Grancore Girl - Prairie Call
3. Race: Far Away So Close - Billie Beg - Bacher Boy
4. Race: Kylebeg Krystle - Golden Gem - Carnbridge
5. Race: Rhyl Accord - Thegreatjohnbrowne - Kusadasi
6. Race: The Hoodoo Remains - The Flying Dustman - Grey Area
7. Race: Rockfield Abbey - Prince Of Milan - Boherna Gold

Flat racing at Cagnes sur Mer

the flat meeting at Cagnes sur mer starts today with 8 races on the all-weather track. German trainers usually do Well at this meeting, but in view of the bad weather at home, they are likely to be at a fitness disadvantage at the moment. Today´s German runners are: American Life (Christian von der Recke/ Yann Lerner) in the 3yo maiden at 13.20; Ceodora (Werner Baltromei/ Dominique Boeuf) and Laokoon (Mario Hofer/ Gaetan Masure) in the 1300 metres claimer at 14.50; Quadraga (Hans Blume/ Masure) and Blue Citadel (Hofer/ Boeuf) in the first division of the 2400 metres handicap at 15.55, and Amuse Gueule (Baltromei/ Boeuf) in the second division half an hour later. We would be cautious about backing any of these heavily, but perhaps Laokoon has the best chance.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: San Martin - At Least - Maxy Glaz
2. Race: Serva Padrona - Asoraya - Space Ranger
3. Race: Dubawi Junior - Evading Tempete - So Long Malpic
4. Race: Derison - Palea - Ceodora
5. Race: Dream Bee - Touching Kings - Doukanane
6. Race: La Margouline - Eklektos - Salsavina
7. Race: Lion Des Flandres - Amuse Gueule - Silver Mountain
8. Race: Lucky Name - Qumran - Damax

All weather action today

Lingfield stages the only all-weather meeting today and course specialist Atlantic Story (Mick Easterby/ Jamie Spencer) looks the best bet of the day in the 7 furlongs conditions race at 16.10. He ran an excellent race in a hot handicap here last week, and as long as he does not bounce, should outclass this opposition. The 10 furlongs handicap at 16.40 looks very tricky, but we shall give another chance to Luberon (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), who flopped here last time. Mafeking (Mark Hoad/ Andrew Elliott) was just beaten over this CD last time, and deserves a win after running-up 5 times in his last 6 races, while top-weight Bridge of Gold (Mikael Magnusson/ Paul Hanagan), who has been off since June, is very lightly raced and potentially better grade than these. Lisahane Bog (Peter Hedger/ Jim Crowley) seems to do no more than necessary, but that has been enough for him to win his last 4 races, and he can complete a fivetimer in the 3yo handicap at 5.40.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Clear Sailing - Laurie Grove - Kindlelight Blue
2. Race: Understory - Major Maximus - Sweet Avon
3. Race: Jeer - Alfie Tupper - Charlie Smirke
4. Race: Lisahane Bog - Prince Of Sorrento - Transfixed
5. Race: Atlantic Story - Aeroplane - Eisteddfod
6. Race: Mafeking - Full Toss - Luberon
7. Race: Greyfriarschorista - Into Wain - Tilsworth Glenboy

Follow Henderson at Kempton

As racing gets back halfway to normal today, Nicky Henderson once again looks the man to follow at Kempton, a track where he has an excellent record. He should certainly win the novice chase at 13.55 CET with Mad Max (Barry Geraghty), one of the stable´s big hopes. This one won his first 4 races, but has not run since being well beaten at the Cheltenham festival; in the meantime he has had an operation for a wind problem, but if anywhere near peak fitness, should have no problem in accounting for his 4 opponents here.

Henderson also saddles the two top-weights Duc de Regniere (David Bass) and Tasheba (Geraghty) in the big betting race of the day, the Lanzarote Handicap Hurdle over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 15.45. This looks a really difficult race, with Venetia Williams and Philip Hobbs also double-handed - jockey bookings suggest that Aachen (Aidan Coleman) and Triggerman (Giles Hawkins) respectively are their main hopes, while Mighty Moon (Richard Fahey/ Brian Hughes) is a dangerous raider from the North. He goes well on the soft, as does Consigliere (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore), who keeps on improving - he has won 5 of his last 8 races- and is another one to be considered in a very open event.

Should racing go ahead at Huntingdon, the novice chase at 14.20 looks the best race, even with only 4 runners. It looks a match between Australian import Ginolad (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas), who won on his British debut by 37 lengths, and the classy Tazbar (Keith and James Revely), runner-up to Long Run at Kempton´s Christmas meeting. Alan King has had a very quiet season so far, but could land a double here with Prince Buster at 14.55 and Mister Chancer at 17.05, both partnered by stable jockey Robert Thornton.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Braveheart Move - Watergate - Ciceron
2. Race: Mad Max - Mahonia - Dee Ee Williams
3. Race: Kennel Hill - The Minack - Proud Presence
4. Race: Lord Appellare - Reblis - Tuskar Rock
5. Race: Tasheba - Triggerman - Keki Buku
6. Race: Fistral Beach - Le Burf - Magic Sky
7. Race: William Hogarth - Spear Thistle - Marchand D`Argent

N.H. racing resumes at last -but Naas off

At last after two weeks without "proper" racing, and 27 abandoned meetings in the UK and Ireland, jumps racing resumes today. Kempton has a strong card and there should be no problems there, while there is still an inspection to be passed at Huntingdon and Naas (Ireland). There is also all-weather racing from Lingfield, but the other meetings- Wetherby, Warwick and Fontwell have all been called off.

Later: Naas abandoned! perhaps they were too optimistic as the track in still waterlogged. It is now hoped to stage this meeting next Tuesday. Huntingdon has called for a further inspection.

All weather action today

Once again, three rather dreary meetings on the all-weather today, and some quite small fields as well, especially at Lingfield and Southwell. Two races at the former track have only 4 runners, including the best event, a 3yo handicap over 10 furlongs at 16.10 CET. This looks very tricky, as all 4 have a chance. Mary Helen (Mark Brisbourne/ Shane Kelly) is the most exposed, but has the best form and ran a good race only on Tuesday.

Captain Cool (Richard Hannon/ David Probert) also ran well last time, while Kathindi (Stan Moore/ Liam Keniry) has been third on all his 4 starts here. However our narrow choice is top-weight Cosimo de Medici (Hughie Morrison/ Patrick Hills), who won nicely last time and may be able to follow up in this better grade.

6 turn out for Southwell´s best race, a 7 furlongs handicap at 16.45, 4 of them last time winners. Moojeh (Marco Botti/ Jerry O´Dwyer) is the least exposed and could be capable of further improvent, while Striker Torres (Bryan Smart/ Tom Eaves) still looks well handicapped. However we go with Elusive Warrior (Alan McCabe/ Declan Carroll), who is in top form and has won twice over this CD in the last 10 days.

There are bigger fields at Wolverhampton´s twilight meeting, with 13 entered in the two best handicaps, over 6 furlongs at 17.20 and over 8 1/2 furlongs at 19.50, both with numerous CD specialists. Smart and vws trl on from Southwell and can possibly take the later race with Inhritor.

Weather update - Hopes dashed

Hopes that jumps racing could resume today have been dashed, and both Musselburgh and Huntingdon, who were optimistic a couple of days ago, have been abandoned, as has the Irish meeting at Thurles. However the outlook for the weekend is more positive. In Ireland, Thurles hope to resume tomorrow (when they will stage Thursday´s abandoned card) and will reschedule today´s card for Monday, while Naas will also probably go ahead - though the going will be very heavy at both tracks.

Temperatures are slowly rising in the UK and a general thaw is now expected.

all weather action today

three all-weather tracks race today and let´s hope that there are no more problems. Most of the races are pretty low standard, and easily the best performer on view is Arganil (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan), a genuine listed horse, who appears to have a simple task in the 6 furlongs conditions race at 16.30 CET at Lingfield. Aeroplane (David and Richard Evans) looks the only conceivable danger.

David Evans also has a decent chance in the 6 furlongs handicap at 19.40 at Wolverhampton´s twilight meeting with Vhujon (Paul Hanagan), who has been runner-up three times running and looks sure to be involved under bottom-weight. The conditions race over 8 1/2 furlongs here at 18.40 is also a good race, even with only 6 runners. Top-rated here is Argentinian-bred Balcarce Nov (Tom Tate/ Jamie Spencer).

At Southwell we hope to see Grudge (Ollie Pears/ William Carson) take the selling race for apprentices at 13.50; he was runner-up over this CD last time, which looks the best form in this field. The maiden race at 14.20 can go to Sure Fire (Barney Curley/ Tom Queally), who has an excellent German pedigree. His 3 runs so far were not that great, but he faces weak opposition now and looks capable of considerable improvement. George Baker and Matthew Davies can take the 3yo seller with Bubbly Bellini at 15.20 before rushing off to Wolverhampton, where they have a chance with German-bred bottom-weight Heredias, runner-up over hurdles last time, in the 1 3/4 mile handicap at 17.40.

Lingfield and Kempton

In the hope that racing goes ahead at these tracks, we hope to see Henry Cecil´s Zerzura (Tom Queally) win the opening maiden at 13.40 CET at Lingfield. He started a warm favourite on his late debut on this CD at New Year, but was only fifth, but is expected to know much more about the game this time. Chanrossa (Ed Dunlop/ Jim Crowley), finished in front of him then and is the obvious danger.

Otherwise the best races are the class 4 handicaps at the end of the card, while both look very tricky. The 1 1/2 mile race at 16.00 could concern Chalice Welcome (Neil King/ Hayley Turner), winner of 3 of his last 4 races, and bottom weight Quinsman (Stan Moore/ Jimmy Quinn). King and Turner can follow up over 10 furlongs at 16.35 with Farleigh House, only narrowly beaten last time at Wolverhampton.

The best races also come at the end of Kempton´s "twilight" meeting. Again they are very open handicaps, and our short list comprises Bravo Echo, Seek the Fair Wind and Desert Dreamer over 7 furlongs at 19.45, and Bawaadi, Tamasou and Totally Focussed over a mile half an hour later.

all-bumper meeting at Southwell

The idea of holding an all- bumper meeting today at Southwell is an excellent initiative, which has been very well received by trainers, with 74 entries in the 7 races. Technically speaking, these are all N.H. races (e.g. for statistical purposes), although of course all races are run on the flat. Several leading trainers are sending runners, notably Nicky Henderson, who has probably the srongest bumper team in the country, and has made entries in 6 races, all of them partnered by stable jockey Barry Geraghty.

It looks quite likely that the stable will win 4 or 5 races, with Anquetta at 13.30 CET, Benartic at 14.00 and Line Freedom in the mares race at 15.40 looking the most likely to score. Line Freedom won her only start last season by 22 lengths at the Cheltenham April meeting and despite giving away 7lbs all round looks the best bet of the day. Poppy Come Running (Gary and Joshua Moore), who ran out when looking the likely winner last time at Folkestone, looks the only danger.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Anquetta - Rupin - Takamaru
2. Race: Benartic - Di Kaprio - Lord Equalizer
3. Race: Woolfall Hawk - Jersey Boys - Midnight Opera
4. Race: Chef Junior - Tiger Bay - Inner Steel
5. Race: Line Freedom - Poppy Come Running - Mabel Tasman
6. Race: Dort Tranquille - Senor Alco - Trojan Reef
7. Race: Wallace Monument - King Rufo - Brackloon High

Weather update

It is snowing again today in many parts of Britain and both all-weather tracks, Lingfield and Kempton, have called for an inspection., but the all-bumper meeting at Southwell seems certain to go ahead. Obviously there will be no N.H. racing in Britain or Ireland today or tomorrow, but there is a slight hope that jumps racing can resume on Friday, at Musselburgh or Huntingdon - or if we are really lucky, at both. Prospects for the weekend are also looking slightly better, but nothing is yet crystal clear.

Lingfield and Southwell

in the meantime we have to be content with two more very low-profile all-weather meetings at Lingfield and Southwell. Mark Johnston continues to bang in the winners and can land a double at the former track with Ostentation in the 3yo handicap over a mile at 15.35 CET and Capricornus in the 7 furlongs handicap for the same age group an hour later, both ridden by Neil Callan.

Ostentation has not finished in the first 4 in his 4 starts so far, but still may be good enough to see off today´s opposition, while Capricornus faces several in-form opponents but looks capable of further improvement. Callan also has a chance of winning the 10 furlongs claimer at 15.05 on Kevin McAuliffe´s Lily Lily; the likely favourite here is Glen Lass (Jeff Pearce/ Saleem Golam), who has won her last 3 races, but she is moving up in distance and has never run at this track before.

At Southwell, we hope to see German-bred Tyrana (Ian Williams/ Stephen Donohoe) defy top-weight in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 14.20; he missed out yesterday´s engagement, but this race looks easier. The obvious danger is consistent course specialist Jackie Kiely (Roy Brotherton/ Phillip Makin). Williams and Donohoe can complete a double with top-weight Russian Invader in the 2 mile handicap half an hour later. This one has shown vastly improved form since moving up in trip, and having won twice over 1 3/4 miles should also handle this extra distance without problem.

Donohoe also partners what could be the most interesting runner of the day, Sir Mark Prescott´s Albertus Pictor, who makes his debut in the 3yo maiden at 16.20. He is out of Kirsten Rausing´s multiple German Group One winner Albanova and from a family with numerous top-class performers. Whether he is able to win first time out remains be seen, but the opposition does not look strong.

Weather update - Slight improvement expected

More snow is forecast today, especially in S-W England, but generally conditions are now expected to improve slightly and jumps racing later in the week seems a distinct possibility. There is no chance of N.H. racing on turf today or tomorrow, and probably not on Thursday either, but Musselburgh´s Friday meeting has good chances of going ahead, and they have also been given an additional Saturday fixture. Fontwell may also race on Saturday, while prospects for the two day Irish meeting at Thurles are improving.

Kempton and Wolverhampton

On the assumption that both all-weather meetings today actually take place, we hope to see a German-bred winner at Kempton. The Acatenango mare Tyrana (Ian Williams/ Eddie Ahern)showed improved form when winning here last time and can defy a 4lbs rise in the weights in the first division of the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 16.15 CET. The second division half an hour later can also go to an improving mare, Andrew Balding´s top-weight Starburst (David Probert). Balding also saddles Lord Fidelio (Liam Keniry) in the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.45; this one ran badly on Saturday at Lingfield, but had earlier won over this CD and may do better returned to this track. Party in the Park (James Boyle/ Matthew Davies) has been runner-up 5 times in his last 6 starts - he can finally get his head in front in the concluding mile handicap at 18.15.

At Wolverhampton, we expect to see trainer Tom Dascombe and his stable jockey Richard Kingscote and a double with Diapason in the fillies handicap that opens the card at 14.30 and Pomeroy in the 3yo handicap an hour later. German-bred Carmenero (Conor Dore/ William Carson) has not won for 2 1/2 years but is now on a very low mark and might run well at a big price in the apprentice handicap at 16.30, while top-weight Shake On It (Mark Hoad/ Jamie Jones) can complete a CD hat-trick at 17.20. In terms of quality. both these cards are very poor, but if there are any decent horses running, it can only be in the 3yo maiden at 16.00 here. Almost all these runners are completely unexposed, but both Brave Decision (Alan McCabe/ Robert Winston) and Duellist (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) shaped like certain future winners first time out.

Later: Both tracks have passed inspections this morning so racing is reasonably certain to go ahead

Weather update - Glimmer of light

More snow is expected today, which may cause problems for the the two all-weather meetings, while all N.H. racing for the next few days has already been abandoned - Taúnton and Ayr today, Newcastle and Leicester tomorrow with Wednesday´s and Thursday´s fixtures also looking extremely unlikely.

However there is a glimmer of light on the horizon, as temperatures are now forecast to rise, and it seems there is a fair chance of racing at Musselburgh on Friday - in fact the track has asked to put on an extra day on Saturday as well if all goes to plan.

France today

the bad weather has reached the French Riviera, but there should be no problems with today´s jumps meeting at Cagnes-sur-mer, featuring the Grand Príx de la Ville de Nice at 14.20, their most important race over jumps. This Group Three chase over 4600 metres has 14 runners and looks very open. Le Plessis (Y. Fertillet/ Hubert Terrien) won the main trial narrowly from Mercelin (Serge and Tony Foucher) and both should get involved again, but we fancy top-weight Palmier (Philip Carberry), one of 3 FM Cottin runners.
Also in France, Vincennes is gearing up for its big Amerique meeting at the end of the month. Today´s big race is a Grade Two monté over 2850 metres at 14.35, which might go to Joel Hallais´ Or de Jade (David Thomain).

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Lips Motion - Akira d`Auteuil - Gryonne
2. Race: Bahia Do Brasil - Sourire Du Chenet - Noa Holme
3. Race: Baan Rim Pa - American Bowl - Ridge d`Opale
4. Race: Madra Ocean - Zarkali - Le Plessis
5. Race: Satwa Duke - Sphinx Du Berlais - Boogie
6. Race: Young Poli - Le Jonchet - Mercelino
7. Race: Deva du Rheu - Reflexion - Emithot
8. Race: Quezac de la Roque - Classical Card - Matin De Clermont

Southwell today

Mark Johnston, after his record-breaking 2009, continues in great form and has a good chance of landing both of Southwell´s class 4 handicaps today. In the race for 3yo´s over 6 furlongs at 16.50 CET his two representatives, top-weight Bowmaker (Jean-Pierre Guillambert) and Love Delta (Joe Fanning), both CD winners last time, could take the first two places. Bowmaker has not run since easily winning his only start here in October; he has been given quite a high rating, but could well be better class, while Love Delta won here only 9 days ago and has possibly a fitness advantage.
The 7 furlongs event at 15.50 is almost a re-run of a similar race here last weekend, when Follow the Flag (Alan McCabe/ Declan Cannon) was a ready winner from Elusive Fame (Johnston/ Fanning), with Johnny Skull (Phil McEntee/ Jimmy Quinn) 4th and favourite Prohibition (William Haggas/ William Carson) 5th. At the revised weights any of these could win, but it would be no surprise to see the Johnston stable score here. Mozayada (Mel Brittain/ Robert Winston), who won 5 races at this track last winter and seems to be coming back to form, looks a danger to all of them.
Elsewhere, German-bred Princess Flame (Brendan Powell/ Winston), who rarely wins but is consistent both on the level and over hurdles, could be a good each-way bet in the 1 mile 3 furlongs handicap at 15.30, while Brazilian Brush (Milton Bradley/ Ryan Clark), an easy winner over 6 furlongs on Thursday with first-time blinkers, can follow up in the apprentice handicap over a furlong shorter at 14.20.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Grand Palace - Mr Funshine - Head To Head
2. Race: Via Mia - Inside Story - Nawamees
3. Race: Dream In Blue - Stormy Summer - Look Officer
4. Race: Elusive Fame - Follow The Flag - Mozayada
5. Race: Spoof Master - Kinigi - Zeffirelli
6. Race: Bowmaker - Love Delta - Maldon Prom

weather update

today´s jumps meetings at Hereford and Leopardstown (Ireland) were abandoned long ago, leaving the all-weather track at Southwell staging the only racing in Britain and Ireland today. It looks likely that all-weather racing will continue to monopolise the scene for some time to come, as the prospects for racing on turf in the next few days seem non-existent. More snow is expected and the temperatures will remain below freezing for the next few days. although there could be some slight improvement at the end of the week.

Lingfield and Kempton

Lingfield´s 7 furlongs handicap at 15.10 CET is by far the best race of the day, a most competitive event with 13 runners. The two top-weights Atlantic Story (Mick Easterby/ Jamie Spencer) and Ceremonial Jade (Marco Botti/ Jerry O´Dwyer) are both top CD specialists, as is Eisteddfod (Paul Cole/ Eddie Ahern). Imprimis Tagula (Alan Bailey/ Lee Newnes) is one of the stars of the winter season, having won 4 of his last 5 races, but meets much tougher opposition this time, as does last-time-out winner Fathsta (David Simcock/ Martin Lane). Ebraam (Sean Curran/ Robert Winston) is weighted to get the better of Imprimis Tagula this time, In a very tricky race, our each-way fancy is Eisteddfod, also behind Imprimis Tagula last time, but who should be much better suited by this track.
At Kempton, Tiddliwinks (Kevin and Annie Ryan) looks the best bet of the day. The way he has won his last two races including this CD, suggests that he may well run up a sequence on the all-weather and that a 6 lbs penalty and top-weight will not stop his taking the 6 furlongs handicap here at 15.55. Lujeanie and Vhujon were first and second over this CD last time and can fill the minor places. Also at Kempton, we like the look of Lyrical Intent (Paul Howling/ Jimmy Quinn) at 14.25, My Deal (Eve Johnson Houghton/ Tom Queally) half an hour later, and Fly by Nelly (Hughie Morrison/ Steve Drowne) at 15.25. For those looking for a long-shot we recommend David´s Mark (John Jenkins/ Simon Whitworth) at 16.25.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: The Dial House - Ladies Dancing - Via Mia
2. Race: Lovers Causeway - Septemberintherain - Banks And Braes
3. Race: Prince Of Sorrento - Zubova - Transfixed
4. Race: Atlantic Story - Ceremonial Jade - Imprimis Tagula
5. Race: Aeroplane - Plum Pudding - Beauchamp Viceroy
6. Race: Billberry - Shaded Edge - Lord Fidelio
7. Race: Billie Jean - Wanchai Whisper - Athwaab

all weather action today

with all N.H. racing abandoned, and unlikely to resume for some time, the all-weather tracks at Lingfield and Kempton keep the show going today. However even here there could be problems after more snowfall. Kempton seems certain to go ahead, but Lingfield, which has a much better card, has called for a further inspection.
Later: Good news! Lingfield is on (although there are likely to be quite a few on-runners at both meetings)

All weather action today

After the disasters of the last few days, there are two meetings this afternoon, although Wolverhampton´s "twilight meeting" has been abandoned. Easily the best race of the day is the class 2 handicap at 15.30 CET at Lingfield, which has a pretty strong field for the time of year. Luca Cumani´ s German-bred Waldvogel (Dane O´Neill) has top-weight here, but strictly speaking he is held on last years Dubai form by Young Mick (George Margarson/ Tom Queally), not disgraced in a listed race last time.

Mildoura (Lucy and Ian Mongan) has won her last two races in good style, including this CD. but now meets much better opposition. Our tentative suggestion is Luberon (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), who missed most of 2009, but has a clear chance if back to his best form of 2008.

Also at Lingfield, trainer James Boyle can take the last 2 races with Alfie Tupper (Dane O´Neill), just touched off here last week, at 16.30, and Wunder Strike (Nathan Alison) ia the apprentice handicap half an hour later; the latter has won his last 4 races, 3 of them this CD, and is still on a reasonable mark.

At Southwell, Hint of Honey (Tony Newsombe/ David Kenny) who showed her best ever form when scoring here last week at 40-1, can follow up at much reduced odds at 15.45, while Obe Gold (Paul Howling/ Robert Winston), who missed the break here days ago, stands out in the 6 furlongs seller at 16.15.

Only Southwell on today

The all-weather fxtures at Lingfield this afternoon and Kempton in the early evening have been abandoned, because no ambulances are available.

This leaves Southwell´s fixture this afternoon as the only racing today. The two best races are class 4 sprint handicaps. At 14.10 CET they go over 6 furlongs, and we expect top-weight Autumn Blades (Alan Bailey/ David Probert) to have a good chance.

He is in good form, having won 2 of his 3 races, and usually runs well here. Green Park (Declan Carroll/ Derek Nolan), who won at Wolverhampton last time over 5 furlongs, could be a danger, but he seems to be better over the minimum trip. That is the distance at 15.40, and oldtimer The Tatling (Milton Bradley/ Jack Dean) is the choice here; at 13 years of age he is no longer as quick as he used to be, but should still be capable of taking this. Another veteran in the field is 10yo Pawan (Ann Stokell), who has been below form on his recent starts but is now very nicely handicapped.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Angle Of Attack - Divertimenti - Bertbrand
2. Race: Tag Team - Nabeeda - Hart Of Gold
3. Race: Autumn Blades - Harlech Castle - Onceaponatime
4. Race: Lord Victor - Angie`S Nap - Miss Taken
5. Race: Gold Party - Honest Broker - Cosimo De Medici
6. Race: The Tatling - Garstang - Wotashirtfull
7. Race: Bestowed - Trans Sonic - Tallest Peak
8. Race: Boundless Prospect - Onemoreandstay - Lava Steps

More weather woes

The UK and Ireland remain in the grip of wintry weather, which will continue to play havoc with fixtures for the foreseeable future. Today´s N.H. meetings at Huntingdon, Ludlow and Thurles (Ireland) are all off, as are tomorrow´s at Bangor and Fontwell. The chances of any N.H. racing taking place in the next few days looks very remote, with only Ffos Las on Saturday holding out any hope (and then not much).

Even the so-called "all-weather" tracks are not immune, as we saw yesterday. Today´s a.w. meeting at Southwell seems almost certain to go ahead, but there are still inspections to come at Lingfield and Kempton as well as for Wolverhampton tomorrow. The problem is not only the snow on the track but also the dangerous conditions of the approach roads. Even if racing goes ahead, there are likely to be non-runners because of the poor traffic conditions.
later: Lingfield and Kempton both abandoned today! also Ffos Las (Saturday) has been called off, so that there will be no N.H. racing for the next 5 days at least.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

Inspections are due at both a.w. weather tracks today, but in the hope that racing goes ahead, we expect Via Mia (Matthew Davies) to take the seller at Lingfield at 14.30 CET; she is best in at the weights and is dropping in grade. Hald n hour later, in a handicap over the same trip of 10 furlongs, we expect to see another bottom-weight score -Fly by Nelly (Hughie Morrison/ Chris Catlin), as this trip should be ideal.

The final apprentice handicap at 16.30 can go to top-weight Party in the Park (James Boyle/ N. Alison), who certainly deserves to get his head in front after finishing runner-up 5 times in his last 6 starts (including 3 times here).

The standard of racing at Kempton´s early evening fixture is much higher, with two class 3 handicaps. The10 furlongs race at 18.20 should concern the consistent performers Poyle Meg (Ralph Beckett/ Jim Crowley) and Desert Vision (Mick Easterby/ Phillip Makin), both of whom have won 3 of their last 5 races, but we also fancy top-weight Baylini (Mrs. Doyle/ Adam Kirby); she has not won for ages, but has been mainly running in better events and goes well on the all-weather. There are only 7 runners in the 6 furlongs race at 19.20, but it looks very tricky and 6 of them are CD winners. Indeed top-weight Earlsmedic has won on his two trips here and is our narrow selection, with Fatstha (David Simcock/ Eddie Ahern) and Vhujon (David Evans/ Andrew Heffernan) heading the dangers. The mil handicap at 19.50 is another very open race, but Pegasus Again (Terry Mills/ Joe Fanning) scored in good style at Lingfield last week and can follow up under top weight.

Southwell today

with all jumps racing off, Southwell´s all-weather track offers the only British racing today, with 7 races, all class 5 or 6. Just like yesterday, the maiden race (this time for fillies over 6 furlongs at 14.10 CET) looks the most interesting event, and like yesterday we expect the 3yo´s in receipt of 16 lbs to come out on top. In fact it seems quite likely that the two youngest runners - Ambrogina (Marco Botti/ Jimmy Quinn) and Freddie´s Girl (Stef Liffiard/ Chris Catlin will take the first two places.
The best betting race is the 1 3/4 mile handicap at 15.40 with 13 runners. Dart (Sue Lamyman/ Robert Winston) has a huge weight here, but she is still the choice. A real course specialist, she has won twice over CD in the past fortnight and can complete a quick hat-trick. German-bred Bright Sparky (Mick Easterby/ James Sullivan) should be placed here. He was pulled up over fences last time, but on his previous start was only narrowly beaten by Russian Music (Ian Williams/ Stephen Donohoe), whom he mow meets on better terms.
The 3yo handicap over 6 furlongs at 16.40 should go to Knightfire (Walter Swinburn/ Adam Kirby), while Burasco (David Barron/ Phillip Makin), moving up in distance, has an obvious chance against CD specialist Hit the Switch (Pat Morris/ James Sullivan) in the mile handicap at 15.10. Easily the best horse running today, according to official ratings, is Dandy Nicholls´ Machinist (Andrew Mullen), who should in theory have little problem in winning the opening claimer over 6 furlongs at 13.40. However he has been off the track since May and this race is probably best left alone.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Machinist - Stonecrabstomorrow - Peninsular War
2. Race: Ambrogina - Freddie`S Girl - Cross Section
3. Race: Obe Gold - Jonnie Skull - Elusive Warrior
4. Race: Hit The Switch - Borasco - West End Lad
5. Race: Dart - Russian Music - Aleron
6. Race: Silken Promise - Moonshine Creek - Eightdaysaweek
7. Race: Knightfire - The Love Guru - Whitby

cold weather continues

the very cold weather in Britain and Ireland is set to continue for the next few days with disastrous consequences for N.H. racing. Today´s meetings at Leicester and Taunton have been abandoned, so have tomorrow´s fixtures at Southwell at Hexham, while the prospects for later in the week remain very poor. Three additional all-weather fixtures have been organised for Thursday (Lingfield), Friday (Southwell) and Saturday (Kempton) to ensure at least some racing action.

German runners at Deauville

Another big card at Deauville with 12 races (4 in the morning and 8 in the main session) but less quality than yesterday. German raiders did quite well yesterday with a winner and several placed horses here, and 5 German-trained runners today will attempt to improve on this record. Beltana (Sascha Smrczek/ Gaetan Masure) in the fillies race over 1900 metres at 14.10 possibly has the best chance.

Smrczek also saddles Rassima (Eric Wehrel) in the 1300 metres for jeunes jockeys at 12.10, while the same jockey partners Blue Citadel for Mario Hofer in the 2400 metres claimer at 15.45. With Charitonas (Axel Kleinkorres/ Romain Perruchot) and Jasmines Hero (Heinz Hesse/ F Panicucci) there are 2 German runners in the jeunes jockeys race over 1900 metres at 13.05, but this looks quite tough.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: God`s County - Jasmines Hero - Charitonas
2. Race: Desert Ocean - Tigron - Serpotta
3. Race: Vicvic - Polka Dance - Lovely Grace
4. Race: Anna Of Dubai - Beltana - Belondine
5. Race: Syrillus - Quatermain - Mistaken Identity
6. Race: Ainebe Crocus - Rava - Sledmere
7. Race: Shine For Me - Zitenly - De Zephyr
8. Race: Vera`s Moscou - Bacarrita - Roman Eagle

Wolverhampton today

With all N.H. racing off, the all-weather fixture at Wolverhampton is the only racing today, but the 8 races are all class 5 or 6, so there is very little in the way of good-class sport to expect. Possibly the most interesting event is the 8 1/2 furlongs maiden at 16.05 CET. 4 of the 9 runnrs are 3yo´s and as the older horses do not look up to much, we expect this age group to come out on top.

The Queen´s High Constable (Roger Charlton/ Martin Dwyer) was very heavily backed on his debut here a month ago (but not by the owner, we hope) but could only finish a close third. He can recover those losses today, but well-bred debutant Beyond (Jeremy Noseda/ Chris Catlin) could be a big danger.

Otherwise the two handicaps for 3yo´s are the best races. They go over 9 1/2 furlongs at 17.05, where Brooklands Boy (John Weymes/ Jimmy Quinn) has top weight. He won his only start, over this CD back in October, at 33-1, but we prefer the recent winners If I were a Boy (Silvester Kirk/ Lee Newnes) and Danger Mulally (Andrew Balding/ David Probert). The 7 furlongs race at 18.05 should lie between top-weight Blue Lyric (Luca Cumani Neil Callan) and Lisahane Bog (Paul Hedger/ Dane O´Neill), both currently on a roll with further improvement likely.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Wunder Strike - Bawaardi - Forward Feline
2. Race: Peninsular War - Sir Edwin Landseer - Radiator Rooney
3. Race: High Constable - Beyond - Greyfriarschorista
4. Race: Fujin Dancer - Bee Stinger - Quince
5. Race: Danger Mulally - If I Were A Boy - Mary Helen
6. Race: Shake On It - Dark Ranger - Spinning Ridge
7. Race: Blue Lyric - Lisahane Bog - Itsthursdayalready
8. Race: Party In The Park - Join Up - Tallest Peak

Grim outlook for N.H. racing

Prospects for N.H. racing in the UK and Ireland look pretty grim for the next few days, as the temperatures remain below zero and many areas are covered by frozen snow. Today´s meetings at Lingfield and Wetherby have been abandoned, so has tomorrow´s Taunton fixture, while Leicester tomorrow is also doubtful, and there are certain to be more abandonments later in the week.