Happy New Year!

This column would like to wish all readers, customers and punters a very Happy New Year and
good health and successful punting in 2011!

Uttoxeter, Warwick and Lingfield

Uttoxeter has passed an early morning inspection, but the going will be very heavy. Donald McCain always does well here and could land a double wíth Tornado Bob at 13.40 CET and Glenwood Knight half an hour later, both with Jason Maguire in the saddle. Venetia Williams is another trainer to follow at this track, but today we are also interested in the two runners trained by Barney Curley, ex-German Sommersturm at 14.40 and Me Fein at 15.10, both with Paul Moloney. Sommersturm has not finished in the first 4 in any of his 13 starts in the U.K., but it should not be forgotten that he finished 4th in the Union-Rennen in 2007 and he now races off an insultingly low rating.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Maxdelas - Havingotascoobydo - Opera Og
2. Race: Herdsman - Tornado Bob - Jan Jandura
3. Race: Silent Cliche - Glenwood Knight - Love Of Tara
4. Race: Beauchamp Viking - Lady Of Ashcott - Sarah`S Boy
5. Race: Ban Uisce - Me Fein - Supreme De Paille
6. Race: Abey M`Boy - The Cockney Squire - Northern Quest
7. Race: Ukrainian Star - Paradise Expected - Glamorous Gg
8. Race: Heliopsis - Qualitee - Kaffie




At Warwick, the novice chase at 14.50 is an interesting race, even with only 4 funners. Rock Noir (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy) is arguably the form choice here, but has to concede 7 lbs all round. We would not be surprised to see Qozak (Paul Nicholls/ Nick Scholfield), 20 lengths behind him when they met at Exeter two months ago, improve past him this time. O´Neill and McCoy may have better luck with German-bred Mauritino in the handicap hurdle at 14.20, but he would not want the ground too soft.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Monsieur Cadou - Filippo Lippi - Chico Time
2. Race: Mauritino - Eastwell Smiles - Moscow Mischief
3. Race: Rock Noir - Qozak - Keki Buku
4. Race: Rate Of Knots - Freeze Up - Rapid Increase
5. Race: Alverstone - Way Back When - Midnight Macarena
6. Race: Silver Dollars - Pacha D`Oudairies - Nautical Approach
7. Race: Cresswell Crusader - Tales To Tell - Sunny Ledgend




The most popular winner of the day would undoubtedly be the veteran The Tatling (Milton Bradley/ Russell Kennemore) in the first division of the 5 furlongs handicap at 16.00 at Lingfield´s all-weather fixture. The old boy turns 14 tomorrow and is a long way removed from the class he possessed as a youngster, but he is still capable of winning in this grade if all falls right. Amazingly he has never won at Lingfield and now has a chance of putting the record right. Our other fancies here are Suffolk Punch (Andrew Balding) at 14.30 and course specialist Chjimes (Conor Dore/ Kirsty Milczarek) at 15.30.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Littleportnbrandy - Cloud Illusions - Les Verguettes
2. Race: Woop Woop - Brandy Snap - Torteval
3. Race: Mongoose Alert - Mustajed - Talenti
4. Race: Sarah`S Art - Qalahari - Suffolk Punch
5. Race: Dualagi - South African Gold - Loyal Royal
6. Race: Chjimes - Dancing Welcome - Mr Skipiton
7. Race: You`Relikemefrank - Co Dependent - The Tatling
8. Race: Decider - Fromsong - Edith`S Boy

Punchestown and Tramore

Two Irish meetings today, but none of the highlights experienced at Leopardstown the last 3 days. However the Grade Three mares novice chase at 13.45 CET at Punchestown is quite an interesting event. Both Back of the Pack (Colin Kidd/ Mark Darcy) and Inch Native (DP Murphy/ Andrew McNamara) have won their last two races and should be able to hold their own in this grade, but with the Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend team is such terrific form this week, we go for their candidate Blazing Tempo. Mullins and Townend also have chances with Secant Star in the hurdle race over 2 1/2 miles at 14.45. However this one, off the track since January, will need to improve to beat the useful Jumbo Rio (Edward O´Grady/ McNamara), who is not far off top class over hurdles and loves heavy ground.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Indian Buck - Second Glance - Gentleman Jim
2. Race: Back Of The Pack - Blazing Tempo - Cool Quest
3. Race: Alpha Ridge - Some Target - Ballymak
4. Race: Jumbo Rio - Secant Star - Made In Taipan
5. Race: Luska Lad - Lucky At Last - Killyglen
6. Race: Unaccompanied - Red Sparky - Virgil Earp
7. Race: Korean - Well Insured - Rendezvous Bay
8. Race: Ceol Rua - Metro Star - Benny`S Fagartha




Mullins can also be on the mark at Tramore where Riltree and Wee Giant can win the first two races, both partnered by the trainer´s nephew Emmet.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Riltree - Fairly Definite - Geestring
2. Race: Wee Giant - Mackeys Forge - Foildubh
3. Race: Ross Na Righ - Fourth Class - Goban Saor
4. Race: Ardglen - Yeoman - Pretty Happy
5. Race: Bobs Display - Hegrid - Paddy O Dee
6. Race: Heroes Square - Isourbell - Clare Gent
7. Race: Tim`S Approach - Raggletagglegypsy - Academy Rose

Leopardstown, Limerick and Down Royal

All 3 meetings in Ireland today have been rescheduled from earlier in the week. Main feature is the Grade One novice chase at 15.00 CET at Leopardstown, which revolves around Mikael d´Haguenet (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend). After winning 6 races over hurdles in succession, his run came to an end on his chasing debut when he fell at the last when still looking the likely winner. If he stays on his feet, he should find recompense today.

German-bred Noble Prince (Paul Nolan/ Barry Geraghty) should provide the main opposition, although Torphichen (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) and Saludos (Jessica Harrington/ Robbie Power), both moving up in grade after easy wins, should not be underestimated. The 3yo hurdle at 14.00 also has a strong field.Toner d´Oudairies (Gordon Elliott/ Davy Russell) won well at Fairyhouse last time from Kalann (Sbrina Harty/ Mark Darcy) may not be able to confirm the form, while German-bred filly Narima (Mervyn Torrens/ BJ Cooper) ls comes into the reckoning. Dermot Weld won the big handicap here yesterday and has two more winning chances today with Hidden Universe (NAP) and Endless Intrigue in the maiden hurdles at 13.30 and 16.05, both partnered by Robbie McNamara.

Main event at Limerick is the valuable handicap chase at 15.50. Rubi Light (Robert Hennessy/ Jo Cullen) is the class act here and is unbeaten in two starts this season.,However he has been punished by the handicapper and we are not sure that he can concede so much weight. Clem Bay Cove (Colm Murphy/ Emmet Mullins) could be an each-way alternative and his young jockey can also score on his uncle Willie´s Sweet my Lord at 14.20.

At Down Royal, smart bumper Dylan Ross (Noel Meade/ Tim Carroll) can make a winning debut over hurdles at 13.10, while Tharawaat (Gordon Elliott/ Jason Maguire), who fell early on last time, can make amends by winning the beginners chase at 14.40.

Lingfield, Kempton and Taunton

3 tracks in the U.K. today, with racing on the all-weather at Lingfield and Kempton and over jumps at Taunton. At the last-named track, the novice hurdle at 14.15 CET has a decent field and the two German-bred runners Iolith (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) and Swinging Hawk (Ian Williams/ Dougie Costello) both have chances, especially the former, who was group class on the flat in Germany and created a favourable impression when winning last time out. The most valuable event on the card is the handicap hurdle for conditional jockeys at 16.30 which has attracted a very hot field. Paul Nicholls always does well at his local track and his Organisateur (Ian Popham), who won over CD last time out, must be respected, but he has a huge weight. Olofi (Tom George/ Peter Toole), Dynaste (Pavid Pipe/ Conor O´Farrell) and Monetary Fund (Nicky Henderson/ RJ Killoran) all look dangerous.

The mile handicap at 15.45 is the best race at Lingfield, and Gallantry (Jane Chapple-Hyam/ Jimmy Quinn) and Blue Moon (Kevin Ryan/ Franny Norton) are both last-time-out winners now facing stronger opposition; they should go well, but may find it hard to catch front-runner Miami Gator (Elaine Burke/ Luke Morris). We also like Loki´s Revenge uner top weight in the 2yo handicap at 14.35 here; he beat Forty Proof (Wilf Knight/ Shane Kelly) easily enough last time and can confirm this form under the revised weights. while Steps (Michael Jarvis/ Jack Mitchell), an easy maiden winner last time, may be the main danger.

At Kempton this evening, the 6 furlongs handicap at 19.40 could go to top weight Anne of Kiev (Jeremy Gask/ Steve Drowne), who has won her last two races and last time easily accounted for Feelin Foxy, a winner yesterday. Vhujon (David Evans/ Steven Donohoe) has been very busy lately but keeps his form well and has been in the money all recent starts, including yesterday. He looks the main threat.

Situation getting back to normal

With temperatures rising all over the U.K. and Ireland, the racing situation is getting back to normal. Although Haydock´s fixture today has been abandoned, there are still 6 meetings, including 3 in Ireland - all rescheduled from earlier in the week.

And more Cheltenham hopes in Ireland

Leopardstown too offers a very strong card with more Irish Cheltenham hopes on view. The Grade One December Festival Hurdle at 14.55 CET sees Hurricane Fly (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend) and Solwhit (Charlie Byrnes/ Davy Russell), Ireland´s two main Champion Hurdle hopefuls, renew rivalry. Although Solwhit, who won this last year, once did beat his rival- Hurricane Fly´s only defeat in the last 4 years. the balance of form is clearly in the latter´s favour and he can win again. Mullins and Townend also field a strong candidate in the Grade One Dial-a-Bet Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 14.20 in the 2009 winner Golden Silver. However the ones to beat here are Big Zeb (Colm Murphy/ Barry Geraghty), winner of the Champion Chase in March, and Captain Cee Bee (Eddie Harty/ Mark Walsh). A much more likely winner for Mullins and Townend is Zaidpour in the Champions Novice Hurdle at 13.50. This Aga Khan-bred 4yo was most impressive when scoring at Fairyhouse a fortnight go and look s one of Ireland´ s brightest Cheltenham prospects.

Mullins is firing on all fronts at present and can also be on the scoresheet on a slightly less star-spangled card at Limerick with C´est Ca at 13.35 and Uncle Junior at 16.25, both partnered by his nephew Emmet.

Cheltenham hopes at Newbury

An excellent card at Newbury this afternoon features several of the leading British hopes for Cheltenham. One who is more of a certainty than a hope is Big Bucks (Paul Nicholls/ Tony McCoy-if he is fit to ride after yesterdays fall in Ireland), who runs in the Long Walk Hurdle, transferred from Ascot´s abandoned meeting before Christmas, at 16.20 CET. Since being switched back to the smaller obstacles Big Bucks is unbeaten in 9 races, including this CD 3 times, and basically no horse in Europe can touch him over today´s trip of 3 miles. Duc de Regniere (Nicky Henderson/ Andrew Tinkler) was well beaten by him last time and now reopposes on 8lbs worse terms, but can still take second, with Restless Harry (Bob Dickin/ Harry Oliver) next best.

The other Grade One race here is the Challow Novice Hurdle over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 15.10, which is much more open. 9 of the 11 runners finished first or second last time, but our selection Al Ferof (Nicholls/ Harry Skelton) did not as he fell when in a winning position at Cheltenham. He can atone for that lapse now, with Court in Motion (Emma Lavelle/ Sam Thomas) possibly next best.

Even the lower grade races have strong fields here, and the 3yo hurdle at 13.30 could be very informative. Grandouet (Henderson/ McCoy) and Pullyourfingerout (Brendan Powell/ Dougie Costello) both finished runner-up to Sam Winner - the best 3yo hurdler seen out so far in the UK- with preference for the former, but stable companion A Media Luz (Andrew Tinkler), could be very dangerous in receipt of lots of weight; she threw away her chance last time by pulling for her head throughout.

After Guillaume Macaire and Jacques Ricou scored an absurdly easy success yesterday at Ffos Las, their Lucky to Be must have good chance in the opening novice chase at 13.00, where German-bred Ghizao (Nicholls/ Timmy Murphy) looks the principal threat.

Punchestowns, not seen out since flopping as favourite at the Cheltenham Festival, looks another winner for the Henderson stable at 14.00, while stable companion Kid Cassidy can take the introductory hurdle 35 minutes later.

There is also all-weather flat racing in the U.K. at Wolverhampton this afternoon and Kempton this evening, but all at a low level.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Southwell

There is also flat racing on the all-weather at Lingfield and Southwell, although strictly speaking, the Southwell fixture is also N.H., as all 6 races are so-called "jumpers bumpers" over 2 miles. At a similar meeting here last Wednesday Alan Swinbank stole the show with 3 winners, all ridden by Barry Keniry, and all 3 show up again: Priceless Art at 14.20 CET, Bivouac at 15.30 and First Rock at 16.35.

They all scored easily enough so it will be no surprise if they all go in again, although Bivouac in particular faces much tougher opposition this time. The best race however is at 16.05, where the field includes such classy performers as Kalahari King (Ferdy Murphy/ Paul Gallagher) and Palomar (Brian Ellison/ Fearghal Davis).

At Lingfield, Marcus Tregoning and Hayley Turner can land a short-priced double on Lady Rosamunde at 13.05 and Talayeb at 15.15, while the 6 furlongs handicap at 14.40 looks very tricky. The 3 top-weights Secret Asset (Jane Chapple-Hyam/ George Baker), Love Delta (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley) and Piscean (Tom Keddy/ Shane Kelly) look the most likely contenders.

Jumping is back!

After so many days and weeks of cancelled fixtures, jumping is back today, with good racing from Ffos Las in Wales, better racing from Limerick in Ireland, and even better racing from the other Irish meeting at Leopardstown. Main event there is the Grade One Lexus Chase at 15.35 CET, a race always won by a top class performer, including The Listener (Nick Mitchell/ Andrew McNamara), a spectacular front-runner who won this in 2006; the grey has been only lightly-raced since, but at anywhere near his best, must have a great chance here. The other English-trained runner Money Trix (Nicky Richards/ Davy Russell) also has a chance, while Willie Mullins´ trio Cooldine (Paul Townend), Kempes (Tony McCoy) and J´y Vole (Davy Condon) look the best of the Irish, although Cooldine looks held by Glencove Marina (Eoin Griffin/ Barry Geraghty) on their latest running. Mullins also has good prospects in the other two graded races, the Christmas Hurdle at 15.00 with Mourad (Townend) - altho ugh he must beware of the unbeaten Mossey Joe (WJ Austin/ Andrew Lynch), stepping up in grade but very impressive last time, and in the Fort Leney Novice Chase at 14.25 with Quadrillon (Townend), who has Chicago Grey (Gordon Elliott/ Condon) and Thegreatjohnbrown (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) to beat.

There is also a graded race at Limerick, the novice hurdle at 14.35, but the field does not look that strong and the race should mainly concern Carloswayback (Paul Nolan/ Alan Crowe) and Start Me Up (Charlie Swan/ David Casey), neither of whom - to be honest- look Cheltenham material. Best bet here in our view is Shirley Casper (Dessie Hughes/ BJ Cooper), who made a good comeback a month ago at Naas after 18 months off, and if she does not bounce, should take care of the opposition in the mares beginners chase at 15.45 easily enough.

Today´s two English meetings at Leicester and Catterick have been abandoned, but there is racing at Ffos Las in Wales. Most interesting event here is the 2 miles 5 furlongs handicap chase at 15.40, which looks very open, with 14 runners, including a rare French challenger Royal Tune (Guillaume Macaire/ Jacques Ricou). He was runner-up to a useful performer at Toulouse last time, but it is hard to say what that form is worth, so we prefer Bible Lord (Andrew Turnell/ Nick Scholfield) each-way.

Deauville today

Another full card at Deauville with 13 races (5 this morning) and maximum fields in almost all of them. Most of the races are claimers or low level handicaps, so the quality is not much better than at Southwell, but the prize-money certainly is - about five times higher in fact. The money has also attracted several German runners, but all these races look very tricky and following the dreadful weather at home the Germans could be at a disadvantage. The best chance of a German winner could be in the 1500 metres claimer for 3yo´s at 14.35 CET, in which Asuluman (Mario Hofer/ Romain Briand), Timolin (Hans Blume/ Michael Poirier) and Cayman (Christian von der Recke/ Stephane Breux) are all engaged. Although Cayman is not necessarily the form choice, he is our tentative suggestion, as training conditions at Weilerswist appear to be better than at the major German centres. Nelson (Sascha Szmrcek/ Henk Grewe) and Marlow (Mario and Steffi Hofer) are the best German runners entered to day, but they run in the very hot tierce´ handicap at 13.35, and a better bet is arguably Naidoo (Marion Rotering/ Mikael Mescam) in the amateur riders claiming race at 13.00.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Naidoo - Marygangella - Armistice Day
2. Race: Zimri - Beaumont - Silver Valny
3. Race: Kalendes - Blue San - Sabarye
4. Race: Asulaman - Tradeside - Cayman
5. Race: Sendawalis - Global Hero - Alrescha
6. Race: Prokopios - Shanna Bere - Like To Golf
7. Race: L`Albatros - Akfaras - Loch Dancer
8. Race: Fellini - Missoula - My Summer

King George VI Chase now on January 15th

to nobody´ s great surprise, today´s Kempton meeting has been abandoned (together with all other jumps racing today). It is now planned to run the two Grade One races originally scheduled for Boxing Day, the King George VI Chase and the Christmas Hurdle, at Kempton on January 15th. The good news is that temperatures are set to rise in the U.K. and Ireland this week, so the prospects for later in the week are improving. There is a good chance that jumps racing - the first in 12 days- can be staged tomorrow at Ffos Las, while hopes for Newbury´s big Wednesday meeting and Cheltenham´s New Year fixture are also rising (though not yet 100%). Prospects in Ireland too are improving, so that at least the second half of the Christmas week meetings at Leopardstown and Limerick may be able to be staged.

Southwell (a.w.) today

The all-weather track at Southwell now offers the only racing in Britain and Ireland today, after the abandonment of all jumps racing. Matsunosuke (Ron Harris/ Luke Morris) appears to hold an outstanding chance in the claiming race over 5 furlongs at 14.15 CET. A smart performer at his best, he has tons in hand on official ratings - far more than the 8 lbs plus he is set to concede here.

However he has shown his best form at the other all-weather tracks, and possibly Sloop Johnb (Richard Fahey/ Jack Mitchell), who has been in good form recently, is a viable alternative.

The handicaps at 14.50 and 15.25 are the best betting races on the card. In the former event over 1 mile 3 furlongs Trachonitis (John Jenkins/ Greg Fairley) attempts to repeat his 2009 victory; he was beaten here by Dontpaytheferryman (Brian Ellison/ Dane O´Neill) the last time they met but now meets that opponent on much better terms. A bigger danger in our view is Lay Claim (Alan McCabe/ Shane Kelly), the only 3yo in the field; he finally got off the mark here last time after a long series of near misses and looks the only possible improver in a field of mainly exposed types. It could be a similar story in the mile race, where Exopunta (Julia Feilden/ Fairley) can follow up an easy CD win last time out.

all racing off today!

following another heavy overnight frost, the last remaining meetings today at Fontwell and Wolverhampton have been abandoned, leaving Boxing Day, normally one of the best days of the year, totally blank.
It is still hoped to race at Kempton tomorrow, in which case the two Grade One races scheduled for today- the King George VI Chase and the Christmas Hurdle - would be added to the card. Although the track seems optimistic - they say it is 70/30 likely to go ahead -we would not be so confident but certainly hope they are right.
A thaw is expected to start tomorrow, but whether it is too late to save fixtures for the first half of the week remains to be seen. All jumps fixtures up to Wednesday in the U.K. and Ireland look doubtful, and several have already been called off.

Boxing Day blues

the continued bad weather has had a devastating effect on the huge racing programme for December 26th (Boxing Day in the U.K., and St. Stephen´s Day in Ireland). Of the 14 meetings scheduled, 12 have already been cancelled, leaving only Fontwell and Wolverhampton possible (and they are not 100% certain either).
Most importantly, Kempton´s big Boxing Day fixture has been abandoned. It is now hoped to run the two main events, the King George VI Chase (featuring Kauto Star, who is attempting to win the race for an unprecedented 5th time) and the Christmas Hurdle (virtually a dress rehearsal for the Champion Hurdle) on Monday. This of course depends on Monday´s card going ahead, which must be doubtful.
The Welsh Grand National, due to be run at Chepstow on Monday, has now been postponed to January 8th.
Prospects for Irish racing, including the big Christmas Festivals at Leopardstown and Limerick, look extremely poor for the next few days.
There is however some light at the end of the tunnel, as temperatures are forecast to rise from Monday onwards. This however will probably be too late to save most of the fixtures in the first half of next week.

Kempton 50/50 for Boxing Day

The bad weather is already causing problems for next week´s huge racing action. Kempton´s big Boxing Day (Dec. 26th) meeting is apparently only 50/50 to go ahead; Market Rasen and Towcester have already cancelled their racing that day, and all 3 Irish fixtures for St. Stephen´s day (same thing) have already been called off - athough Leopardstown and Down Royal are hoping to stage these cards later in the week.

The most important Boxing Day race is the King George VI Chase at Kempton, which Kauto Star (Paul Nicholls/ Tony McCoy) will attempt (weather permitting) to win for an unprecedented fifth time. McCoy has now been booked to ride as Noel Fehily is still having problems with his wrist, while regular pilot Ruby Walsh is not expected back in action for at least another month.

3 all-weather meetings today

after yesterday´s successful "jumpers bumpers" meeting at Kempton, Southwell stage a similar meeting this afternoon, although at a rather low level. The trainers to follow here should be Donald McCain and Alan Swinbank, although in the race at 14.50 CET we like the chances of German-bred Quartano, whose trainer Warren Greatrex saddled two winners at Kempton yesterday. Otherwise our selections are: Inthesettlement (McCain/ Jason Maguire) at 13.50, Firstrock at 14.20, Bivouac at 15.20, Alfie Flits at 15.50 and Priceless Art at 16.20, the last 4 all trained by Swinbank and partnered by Barry Keniry.
The cards at Lingfield and Kempton (early evening) are more conventional. The best race is the mile handicap at 15.05 at Lingfield, with several in-form performers. We like the two bottom weights, Fantasy Gladiator (Robert Cowell/ Jimmy Quinn) and Final Drive (John Ryan/ Stephen Donohoe), who have both been in excellent form but are now moving up in grade.Later, Andrew Balding and David Probert could possibly land a double in the 6 furlong handicaps at 15.35 and 16.05 with Perfect Act and Laser Ruby respectively, while CD specialist Chjimes (Conor Dore/ Kirsty Milczarek) can also score over this trip at 16.35.
Conor Dore also has prospects at Kempton, where he saddles 3 runners in the 5 furlongs handicap at 17.25. Our choice of them is Efistorm with Amy Ryan, whose father Kevin has booked Kieren Fallon to partner Breathless Kiss, just beaten here last time over 6 furlongs. Love you Louis (John Jenkins/ Fergus Sweeney), runner-up over this CD last time, is another possibility in a very open race. Sweeney can also take the 3yo handicap over 1 1/2 miles at 18.25 on Gary Moore´s top weight New Code, while the other 3yo handicap, over a mile at 19.25 should go to John Gosden´ s lightly-raced but well-bred Private Joke (Nicky Mackay).

Betting forecast Lingfield:
1. Race: Motirani - Brabazon - Private Equity
2. Race: Know No Fear - Derby Desire - My Les
3. Race: Wilfred Pickles - D`Artagnan - Penbryn
4. Race: Fantasy Gladiator - Final Drive - Lowther
5. Race: Anne Of Kiev - Perfect Act - Vintage
6. Race: Laser Ruby - Radiator Rooney - Loyal Royal
7. Race: Chjimes - Dancing Welcome - Clerical

All-weather racing at Southwell and Kempton

There is now certain to be no jumps racing until Boxing Day at the earliest, but there are still opportunities for N.H. horses as Kempton today stages a new card comprised entirely of races for N.H, performers, so-called "jumpers bumpers". And they have attracted a very strong entry, with leading trainers Paul Nicholls and Nicky Henderson in particular having fancied runners in most of the races.

In fact it would be no surprise to see this pair between them take all 7 races. Our fancies are Journeyman (Henderson/ Tony McCoy) at 13.50 CET, Dark Lover (Nicholls/ Noel Fehily) at 14.20, Vertige Dore (Nicholls/ Timmy Murphy) at 14.50, Giorgio Quercus (Henderson/ McCoy) at 15.20, Eradicate (Henderson/ David Bass) at 15.50, Working Title (Henderson/ NcCoy) at 16.20 and Pepe Simi (Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) at 16.50. However we would not go overboard on these selections, as all the races look quite competitive and racing on the all-weather is an unknown quantity for most of these runners.

At least there are some good runners engaged at Kempton. At Southwell on the other hand it is the usual all-weather mixture of poor and very poor. Dandy Nicholls has his string in good form and has an excellent record here. He can land a double with the lightly-raced Xilerator (Matt O´Connell), who has top-weight Nazreef (Hughie Morrison/ Travis Block) to beat in the mile handicap at 15.05, in what is easily the best race here, and Spirit of Dixie (Marc Geran) in the second division of the 5 furlongs handicap at 14.05. Yossi (Richard Guest/ Sean Palmer) has been runner-up 4 times running over this CD and can finally get his head in front in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 16.35; Kumbeshwar (David Evans/ Matthew Cosham) is the form choice here, but has a huge weight to shoulder.

6 races at Deauville

6 of the races from Saturday´s abandoned card at Deauville will be rerun this afternoon, including the main feature the listed Prix Petite Etoile for 3yo fillies over 1900 metres at 17.05 CET. 15 fillies line up in what is almost certainly the last European black type race of 2010. German-bred and owned Good Hope (Eoghan O´Neill/ Ronan Thomas) is a decent performer but faces a stiff task in this company.

The race looks very open, with On Verra (Francois Doumen/ Thomas Huet), Full Steam (Andre Fabre/ Mikael Barzalona) and Shining Sea (Francois Rohaut/ Frederic Spanu) possibly holding the best chances.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Etendard D`Or - Zemiro - Zelimir
2. Race: Le Home - Vernazza - Mon P`Tit Cheri
3. Race: Swingville - Montalban - Mindik
4. Race: Numerologie - Jodhpur - Yangon
5. Race: Maria Grazie - Amarilou - Nova Neyev
6. Race: Shining Sea - Kartica - On Verra

Another blank day

Once again there is no racing in Britain and Ireland today. The jumps fixtures at Ffos Las, Taunton and Punchestown (Ireland) were already called off yesterday, while the all-weather meeting at Wolverhampton has been abandoned after an early morning inspection because of a frozen track. With the bad weather continuing, the chances of any jumps racing before Christmas now looks extremely remote.

However there should be no more problems with the all-weather meetings (we hope!) There is in any case a 3 day break for Christmas (Dec. 23, 24 and 25) whch is probably just as well, before racing resumes (again, we hope!) with a huge programme on Boxing Day.

no racing in Britain and Ireland today

There will be no racing today in the U.K. and Ireland after the remaining meetings fell victim to the wintry weather this morning. Prospects for the next few days remain very poor; both Ffos Las and Taunton have been frozen off tomorrow, while Punchestown looks doubtful. The N.H. meetings scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday also look very unlikely to go ahead. Kempton are planning an additional N.H. flat race meeting on Tuesday and have received a huge entry. Prospects for their big King George meeting on Boxing Day next Sunday look better, as the weather is expected to improve later in the week.

Deauville today

Another mammoth card at Deauville, with 13 races and maximum fields in most all of them. Main event is the listed Prix Petite Etoile for 3yo fillies over 1900 metres at 13.50 CET. German interests are represented here by Gestüt Römerhof´ s Good Hope, who is however now trained in France by Eoghain O´Neill and will be ridden by Ronan Thomas. This is however quite a tough race, in which the best of the locals are probably On Verra (Francois Doumen/ Thomas Huet) and Shining (Francois Rohaut/ Frederic Spanu). The German runners did not do so well here yesterday, but there could be a German result this afternoon at 15.25, with Accaccio (Christian von der Recke/ Sabrina Wandt) and Ideology (Mario and Steffi Hofer) engaged over 1500 metres. von der Recke has another chance with Bosco in the claimer for older horses over the same distance an hour later.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Southwell

It must be hoped that Lingfield goes ahead, as the card here is stronger than at Southwell, and features a listed race over 10 furlongs at 14.55 CET. To be honest, few of these runners are up to normal listed standards. On exception is Suits Me (Tom Tate/ Micky Fntpn), who rn up asqunc on th all-whr two winters go, but has not won since. However he ran well last time when third over this CD to the smart Nideeb, and this form should be good enough. Chapter and Verse (Mike Murphy/ Kieren Fallon), 4th in a similar event at Kempton last time, and the improving Akhmatova (Ger Butler/ Eddie Ahern) are the most likely dangers. Rakaan (Jamie Osborne/ Fallon) is the probable favourite in the conditions race over a mile at 14.20, but he has not run since Glorious Goodwood, so we prefer Lowther (Alan Bailey/ Robert Winston) and Mia´s Boy Chris Dwyer/ Ahern), who could both have a fitness adavntage.

Our best bet at Southwell is David Nicholls/ Ian Mongan), who carries top weight in the 7 furlongs handicap at 15.40. He had no chance in a listed race at Kempton on Wednesday, but has racing in much better company and should find this oppositon easy meat. Consistent Seek the Fair Land (Jim Boyle/ Matthew Davies) has been placed on his last 4 starts and should again be in the money. David Nicholls looks in any case to be the trainer to follow here and can also win the 6 furlongs handicap at 15.05, where his runners Silaah (Matt O´Connell) and Johannesgray (Billy Cray) could well take the first two places.

Navan today

Navan has passed an inspection this morning and goes ahead with an all-hurdles card. Main feature is the Navan Novice Hurdle at 14.15 CET over 2 1/2 miles, in which the unbeaten Hidden Cyclone (Paul Nolan/ Andrew McNamara) is clearly the one to beat. he is stepping up in trip here, but is the class act in the field. German-bred Sweet Shock (Michael O´Hare/ Andrew Lynch) is an improving handicapper moving up in grade, while Fully Funded (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry), who has also won his last two races, won over CD last time, so has no stamina problems. The Tara Hurdle over the same distance at 14.50 is another graded race. German-bred Aitmatov (Meade/ Carberry) is the best horse in the line-up here, but ran only on Wednesday, so this race could come a bit soon. He shares top weight with Clan Tara (Paul Nolan/ Aidan Cawley), who has not been seen since easily winning a beginners chase a year ago, but was previously very consistent over hurdles. On ratings, Made in Taipan (Tom Mu llins/ Paul Townend) is very well in, but he last ran in the Grand National, and that is likely to be his main target again. With so many question marks here, consistent Son Amix (Tom and BJ Cooper) is the each-way suggestion.

Once again, no U.K. N.H. racing today, but Navan on

As expected, the renewed onset of winter has put an end to any chance of jumps racing in the U.K. today- Ascot, Haydock and Newcastle have all been abandoned. There is still a slight chance of N.H. racing in Ireland at Navan, where we are waiting for the results of an early inspection. If racing goes ahead there, it will be an all-hurdles card, including two graded races.

Tomorrow´s Carlisle meeting has already been cancelled, while the two Irish tracks at Navan and Thurles - if they race at all- will again be staging all-hurdles cards. The prospects for any more jumps races in the U.K. in the run-up to Christmas now look very poor. Even all-weather racing is not immune. The last race at Wolverhampton last night had to be abandoned, and there is an inspection at Lingfield today (both because of ice on the track).
later: NAVAN ON!

Inspection at Ascot; Uttoxeter and Downpatrick off

As forecast, bad weather has returned to the British Isles; racing at Ascot is subject to a further inspection, while Uttoxeter and the Irish meeting at Downpatrick have been called off. Even if they go ahead, prospects for tomorrow look poor, with a heavy overnight frost expected. If Ascot is staged, the two grade two races for novices are the most interesting events. The race over hurdles at 14.35 CET sees ex-German Iolith (Alan King/ Choc Thornton) return to action after his easy debut success. He is moving up in class here, but with the King stable now in great form, we hope that he can cope with this better grade, although Toubab (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas), Kid Cassidy (Nicky Henderson/ Tony McCoy) and Frascati Park (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) will all provide tough opposition. The chase at 15.10 features the British debut of ex-French Surfing (Henderson/ Geraghty), who is apparently very highly thought of. He must defeat Harry Tricker (Gary and Jamie Moore) a nd Bouggler (Emma Lavell/ Thomas) among others. The first two races are divisions of a novice hurdle over 2 3/4 miles with several promising candidates at the start. Nicholls could possibly land a double here with Poungash (Ryan Mahon) at 12.55 and Rock on Ruby (Harry Skelton) half an hour later.

The card at Uttoxeter has been abandoned!

Exeter, Towcester and Clonmel

Exeter´s jumps meeting this afternoon goes ahead after an early inspection, and there are no problems reported at the other two jumps tracks today, Towcester and Clonmel (Ireland). However the prospects for the next few days do not look so good, with more snow and heavy overnight frosts now forecast. The best race at Exeter is the graduation chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 14.50 with only 5 runners, but some decent performers among them, notably Paul Nicholls´ pair Royal Charm (Noel Fehily), a most impressive CD winner last time, and Chapoturgeon (Timmy Murphy), who however has to concede 7 lbs. However the one to beat could be the ex-Irish Sports Line (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire), having his first race for new connections. The handicap hurdle over the same trip half an hour later looks very open with 19 runners, among them the German-bred Salontyre (Bernard Llewellyn/ Isabell Tompsett) and Amore Mio (Richard Phillips/ Tom Siddall); both could be involved in the finish, esp ecially the former, who carries a 7 lbs penalty for an easy win over this CD 11 days ago. Another penalised runner is Easter Legend (Emma Lavelle/ Sam Thomas), who has to give away 12 lbs in the mares novice chase at 15.50; however she has clearly the best form in the field and could be up to this task.

Lavelle could also have a winner at Towcester as Stolen Thunder (JM Davies) won so well on his debut that he can follow up on the novice hurdle here at 13.40. The handicap hurdle an hour later is another very open race, but top-weight Asturienne is the one for us, now that the Alan King stable has really struck form and with stable jockey Choc Thornton on board. We also like Noun de la Thinte (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) in the handicap chase at 15.10.

There are huge fields in Ireland, but no stars on view at Clonmel today. Royal Crew (Tom O´Brien/ Paul Townend) was runner-up last time and may be able to go one better in the mares maiden hurdle at 14.05. Torphichen (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) was a smart hurdler and made a decent fencing debut; he can now get off the mark over fences at 15.05, while Quito de la Roque (Colm Murphy/ Davy Russell) is another useful hurdler who can score over fences half an hour later.

U.K. racing today

The 4 meetings in the U.K. today, Newbury and Bangor over jumps, and Lingfield and Kempton (evening) on the all-weather, pale into insignificance compared to the card at Fairyhouse. Newbury´s card would be very minor key for this track, were it not for the Grade Two Peterborough Chase over 2 1/2 miles at 16.10 CET, transferred from last week´s abandoned Huntingdon meeting. This race has cut up to 7 runners, and is not a strong as it would have been last week but is still an interesting event, with German-bred Twist Magic (Paul Nicholls/ Noel Fehily) top-rated and the likely favourite. We fancied him strongly for the Tingle Creek at Sandown 10 days ago (also abandoned), but his problem is that he has never shone at right-handed tracks, as Newbury is, and in any case this trip on a stiff track looks beyond him. On top there is another front-runner in the field, Ollie Magern (Nigel and Sam Twiston-Davies), so we do not fancy him today- but will be happy to eat our words. Nicholl s is in great form, but his other runner Breedsbreeze (Daryl Jacob) has been off the track for almost 2 years, so we prefer Tartak (Tom George/ Paddy Brennan) and Deep Purple (Evan Williams/ Paul Moloney), who won this race last year at Huntingdon. Otherwise it could pay to follow Nicky Henderson, who has an excellent record here and has fancied runners in several races.

Although Newbury is clearly the top meeting, it could be significant that Tony McCoy and Choc Thornton ride at Bangor and their mounts should be followed.

Easily the best tace on the all-weather today is the listed event over 7 furlongs at 18.55 at Kempton this evening. Irish challenger Duff (Eddie Lynam/ Kevin Manning) won this in 2008, is top-rated and has a good record at this level and he is our selection. Enact (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) and Mosquera´s Romance (Marco Botti/ Adam Kirby) look the main dangers

4 Grade One races and 4 more graded races at Fairyhouse

A wonderful card at Fairyhouse today, easily the best of the season in Ireland so far, but full of traps for the punter. The problem is how fit some of the runners will be after the long freeze. This applies particularly to Irish champion trainer Willie Mullins, who saddles several of the favourites today, as the stable has not really hit top form and many of his horses seem to need their first run quite badly.

With Ruby Walsh expected to be out of action until February, Paul Townend rides most of the leading fancies from this stable. Mikael d´Haguenet, in the Grade One Drinmore Novice Chase over 2 1/2 miles at 15.30 CET, looks their best hope. This outstanding hurdler - unbeaten in 6 starts for Mullins- makes his fencing debut today, and faces strong opposition from Realt Dubh (Noel Meade/ Pul Carberry), held by Mikael on hurdling form, but probably fiitter, as well as Jessies Dream (Gordon Elliott/ Timmy Murphy) and Head of the Posse (Jon Kiely/ David Casey).

The Hatton´s Grace Hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 13.50 looks the best race of the day. Mullins saddles Hurricane Fly, regarded as the best Irish hope of winning the Champion Hurdle, but he may have to play second fiddle to Solwhit (Charlie Byrnes/ Davy Russell); both are arguably better at 2 miles, and there is not much between them on form, but Solwhit seems to have a clear fitness advantage. It is by no means a two-horse race either, as Oscar Dan Dan (Tom Mullins/ Timmy Murphy) won this last year and could be involved again; however he was possibly lucky to win last time, as German-bred Aitmatov (Meade/ Davy Condon), who fell at the last when still leading and is also a previous winner of this. The mare Voler la Vedette (Colm Murphy/ Andrew Lynch) is also not out of it with her weight allowance.

The John Durkan Memorial over 2 1/2 miles, transferred from Punchestown, also sees Cheltenham hopes at the start. Mullins has two live candidates here, Cooldine (Townend), 5th in the Gold Cup, and the mare J´y Vole (Condon), pulled up when last seen at the Punchestown Festival. However Tranquil Sea (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) and Glencove Marina (Eoin Griffin/ Carberry), both recent winners, will offer stern resistance.

Mullins has another good chance in the Grade One Royal Bond novice hurdle at 13.20 with Zaidpour. He is the only 4-yo in the field and has a tall reputation, so much so that he started at odds-on on his debut in a field of 22, winning easily. He is superbly-bred (out of a French Oaks winner) and could well go right to the top. Main danger today is Perfect Smile (Meade/ Carberry), from a stable whose horses are certainly fit enough.

The Hilly Way Chase over 2 miles, transferred from Cork, is only a Grade Two, but is also a hot race, in which Mullins has 3 runners, last year´s winner Golden Silver (Townend), Kempes (David Casey) and Scotsirish (Emmett Mullins), winner of this in 2006. The super-consistent Osana (O´Grady/ McNamara), who has only once been out of the money in 21 starts, almost all at the top level, should definitely be placed here, while Zaarito (Colm Murphy/ Robbie Power) is another threat if he stays on his feet; he has fallen on 5 of his last 10 races but is certainly talented enough.

Full N.H. programme today

At last a full jumps programme today, with N.H. racing in the U.K. at Newbury and Bangor, and a star-spangled card at Fairyhouse in Ireland. This card, already postponed 3 times, now looks very likely to go ahead, and all 8 races are graded events, including two transferred from other abandoned meetings at Punchestown and Cork. This is by far the best Irish card of the season so far. However the rest of the weather news is not so good, as frost and snow are expected to hit many parts again tomorrow, so that the weekend´s meetings, both in Ireland and the U.K., could be in doubt.

Folkestone, Catterick and Southwell

Not suprisingly, there are some quite large fields at today´s 2 N.H. fixtures, but the top jockeys are at Folkestone. Only 8 line up for the beginners chase over an extended 3 miles at 14.05 CET, but this is a strong field for the money and looks the most interesting race of the day. Triggerman (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) and Pause and Clause (Emma Lavelle/ Sam Thomas) are the two top-rated runners, but the latter, who is highly rated by his trainer, needs to brush up his jumping. Strategic Approach (Warren Greatrex/ Noel Fehily) and City Theatre (Jonjo O´Neill ( Tony McCoy) are others in with a chance here. The most valuable event here is the handicap chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 15.35, which with 15 runners looks wide open. Midnight Haze (Kim Bailey/ Nick Scholfield) and The Rainbow Hunter (Andrew Turnell/ Edward Cookson) are two last-time-out winners looking capable of further improvement. Roi de Rose (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) has won his last 3 races, but there were all a long time ago in Switzerland; we prefer German-bred Victoria´s Groom (Lucy Wadham/ Leighton Aspell), who despite poor form figures (pulled up 3 times on last 4 starts) is certainly well capable of playing a major role in this company.

The top race t Catterick is lso a handovp chas, ths tim over 3 miles 1 furlong at 14.45 with 14 runners. Our choice in another very open affair is Antonius Caesar (Andrew Hales/ Peter Toole), 3rd in probably a better race at Sandown last time. But Top it All (Rose Dobbin/ Timmy Murphy), a recent Kelso winner, looks a big danger, while Hernando´s Boy (Keith and James Reveley) is the question mark of the race. He has not run over fences for 20 months, but is capable enough. The maiden chase at 13.45 sees 3 runners in opposition, who are not only maidens in every discipline, but have all been repeatedly placed and overdue for a win: Mr. Syntax (Tim Fitzgerald/ Richard McGrath), who has now been runner-up 5 times running, is our choice to defeat Si Bien (James Ewart/ Harry Haynes) and Four Strong Winds (O´Neill/ Richie McLernon).

Today´s all-weather racing comes from Southwell and our best bet here is Nazreef (Hughie Morrison/ Travis Block) who has top-weight in the mile handicap at 14.55. He is unbeaten on the all-weather, including twice this CD, and should be too strong for East End Lad (Steve Bowring/ Dane O´Neill), Thunderball (David Nicholls/ Billy Cray) et al. Nicholls probably has better prospects in the 5 furlongs handicap at 1.25, where he saddles 3 of the 10 runners: top-weight Silaah, with son Adrian in the saddle, Sir Geoffrey (Ian Mongan) and La Capriosa (Cray). However this is a very tricky race, as these runners have been repeatedly racing against each other with varying results.

Two N.H. fixtures today!

For the first time in ages, there are two British N.H. meetings on today - at Folkestone and Catterick. However the big Irish meeting at Punchestown has been abandoned (for the fourth time!); some of the races will be run next Monday (weather permitting), but the Grade One John Durkan Memorial will be added to tomorrow´s card at Fairyhouse (also already abandoned 4 times, but prospects looking better).

Tomorrow´s British cards, at Bangor and Newbury (including the Peterborough Chase from Huntingdon´s abandoned meeting last week) also look safe, but the bad news is that there is expected to be a return to the frosty weather later in the week, leaving for example the Saturday meetings at Ascot, Haydock and Navan in serious doubt.

Plumpton, Wolverhampton and Cork

The 3yo hurdle which opens proceedings at 13.35 CET at Plumpton sees an interesting newcomer - Comedy Act (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), who was a useful flat handicapper for Sir Mark Prescott. With the stable in great form, he can win over sticks at the first time of asking. Johnson can follow up on his father-in-law Noel Chance´s Brackloon in the novice hurdle half an hour later; he looks very talented, although the unbeaten Skint (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) is obviously a big danger. The best race here is the novice chase at 14.35. Medermit (Alan King/ Choc Thornton), 7th in this year´s Champion Hurdler, and American Trilogy (Paul Nicholls/ Noel Fehily) stand out on hurdles form and, if their jumping holds up, should dominate. There are several German-breds running here, but they are hard to fancy, with the possible exception of Sommersturm (Barney Curley/ Denis O´Regan, who has bottom-weight in the handicap hurdle at 15.05. Horses from this stable are notoriously difficult to assess, and this one has he has not been in the first 4 on his 12 British starts so far, but this task looks fairly simple and it should not be forgotten that he was 4th in the Union-Rennen in 2007.

All 8 races are Wolverhampton are class 5 or 6. In theory Steps (Michael Jarvis/ Jack Mitchell), after being placed on all 3 starts, should win the 2yo maiden at 16.20, but we prefer Quality Art (Gary Moore/ George Baker) who possibly has more scope for improvement. The two divisions of the 5 furlongs handicap at 16.50 and 17.20 are as tricky as usual, but John Balding and Luke Morris have two likely candidates in Yourelikemefrank and Sleepy Blue Ocean, both in excellent form. However we give slight preference to CD specialist Almaty Express (John Weymes/ Martin Lane) and Ballarina (Eric Alston Eddie Ahern respectively. Jezza (Vic Dartnall/ Steven Donohoe) beat Stormy Morning (Lawney Hill/ Chris Catlin) easily enough last time out, but the latter is now 6 lbs better off and could reverse the form in the 1 3/4 mile handicap at 17.50.

Cork has no races over the steeplechase course (not raceable) but the hurdles events look quite interesting. It is time that Willie Mullins hit form; he had a good winner here yesterday and today has two chances in the maiden hurdle at 13.15 with Sir Vincent, with son Paddy in the saddle, and Dare to Doubt (Paul Townend), while he can also take the maiden hurdle at 14.15 with Sicilian Secret (Townend) and the bumper at 15.50 with Paddy again aboard. Mullins has no runner in the main feature, a mares novice hurdle, which on last season´s form should go to Golden Sunbird (Paul Nolan/ MN Doran).

Ayr off, Plumpton and Cork on

Today´s jumps meeting at Ayr has been abandoned, but both Plumpton and Cork are on, although the latter track will stage an all-hurdling card, as the steeplechase course is unraceable (as was the case yesterday). The prospects for the next few days look slightly better, as it is thawing in England (at least the southern half) and Ireland (ditto). Officials are hopeful that tomorrow´s jumps meetings at Folkestone and Catterick will go ahead, but in Ireland Punchestown looks very doubtful. However Fairyhouse, already rescheduled 4 times with 3 Grade One races, could well be o.k. on Wednesday.

Southwell (a.w.) and Cork (Irish N.H.)

The all-weather meeting at Southwell offers the usual low-level sport but there is one decent race, the 7 furlongs handicap at 15.15 CET. This is a very open race with11 runners and top-weight Love Delta (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley) the likely favourite after an easy win here on Monday. However that was over 5 furlongs, and it is not clear that he can show his best form at this trip. Imprimis Tagula (Alan Bailey/ Natasha Eaton) is very consistent and has also won over CD, while Hulcote Rose (Sylvester Kirk/ Chris Catlin) is moving up in grade after twice winning at Wolverhampton. Richard Fahey has 3 runners here and we select his Bawaadi (Jmes Sullivan), who is running for the first time at this track, but if he adapts, should go close.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Sapphire Girl - Verrazano - Robin Hoods Bay
2. Race: Majuro - Opus Maximus - Avonrose
3. Race: Olney Lass - Buzz Bird - Mr Emirati
4. Race: Love Delta - Imprimis Tagula - Ingleby Arch
5. Race: Takajan - Benato The Great - Desert Strike
6. Race: Lalika - Rosewood Lad - Dandarrell




There is a much better card at Cork with 3 graded races. The main feature is the Hilly Way Chase over 2 miles at 16.20, with several smart performers in the line-up. Willie Mullins has three runners, including Golden Silver (Paul Townend) who won this event last year. The super-consistent Osana (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) should be placed again- he has only once been out of the money in 21 starts, and that was in the 2007 Champion Hurdle- while Zaarito (Colm Murphy/ Robbie Power) could also be a danger if he stays on his feet; he has failed to complete on 5 of his last 10 starts. The mares novice chase at 16.50 could also go to the Mullins/ Townend team with Blazing Tempo, who beat Cool Quest (Tom O´Brien/ Keith Coleman) easily enough last time and can confirm the form on 7 lbs worse terms. The stayers novice hurdle at 13.50 has a pretty poor field for a graded race; Araucaria (Jon Kiely/ McNamara) was a disappointing odds-on favourite last time over 2 miles, bu t this trip seems more suitable and she can back to winning ways.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Man Of Principles - Killary Bay - Elcanos
2. Race: Araucaria - Askanna - Down In Neworleans
3. Race: Bishopsfurze - The Bull Hayes - Four Commanders
4. Race: House Rules - An Drummer Liath - Another Cliche
5. Race: Osirixamix - Ferry Point - Fool`s Wildcat
6. Race: Letter Of Credit - Metro Star - Art Music
7. Race: Golden Silver - Osana - Scotsirish
8. Race: Blazing Tempo - Cool Quest - Back Of The Pack

Huntingdon doubtful

Today´s meeting at Huntingdon, their biggest fixture of the year, looks doubtful after overnight frost. The meeting had already been postponed from Thursday because of the bad weather, but yesterday oficials seemed hopeful that it would go ahead this afternoon. However the return of the cold weather may have scuppered plans. Early morning inspection showed that there was still frost in the ground and another inspection will be held at 11.

Should racing go ahead, the main feature is the Grade Two Peterborough Chase at 15.05. This has attracted a strong field over the intermediate distance of 2 1/2 miles, including Twist Magic (Paul Nicholls/ Noel Fehily) and Tartak (Tom George/ Paddy Brennan), both non-runners in yesterday´s Tingle Creek at Cheltenham. The German-bred Twist Magic is the class act in the field and is top-rated, but there must be a doubt about his getting this trip, as his best distance is 2 miles, so we prefer Tartak, for whom conditions are ideal. However there is plenty more opposition, including Deep Purple (Evan Williams/ Paul Moloney), who won this last year, and another previous winner Racing Demon (Henrietta Knight/ Hadden Frost), while Riverside Theatre (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) is another legitimate contender.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Just The Job - Mannlichen - Najca De Thaix
2. Race: Sway - Topsham Belle - Bathwick Quest
3. Race: Beau Fighter - Kings Troop - Call It On
4. Race: Twist Magic - Riverside Theatre - Kalahari King
5. Race: Skint - Court By Surprise - Muldoon`S Picnic
6. Race: Bardolet - Aztec Treasure - Dunkelly Castle
7. Race: Journeyman - Bowntobebad - Dream Function

superb card at Cheltenham: last 4 races

The Grade One Tingle Creek Chase over 2 miles at 14.55 is the main feature; the race has been transferred from Sandown, and has been won twice by Paul Nicholl´s German-bred Twist King. He has been entered again, but he is a real Sandown specialist and has never run well at Cheltenham. In any case it seems highly likely that he will be switched to Huntingdon´s Peterborough Chase, if tomorrow´s meeting goes ahead. The stable´s main hope here is clearly Master Minded (Noel Fehily), twice winner of the Champion Chase over this CD. If he runs up to his best then he will not be beaten, but there are still question marks hanging over him after two below-par efforts here last season. He is certain to start at a very short price and there may be better value in opposing him with German-bred Gauvain (Nick Williams/ Daryl Jacob), an impressive CD winner last time, Kalahari King (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee), who finished in front of him in the Champin Chase, or Petit Robin (Henderson/ Gera ghty), who has been off since April but runs best fresh.

The Vote AP Gold Cup (the name of the race refers to the campaign to get Tony McCoy voted BBC Sportsperson of the Year) is the big betting race of the day. This handicap chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs is in many respects a re-run of the Paddy Power Chase over this CD last month, in which Little Josh (Nigel and Sam Twiston-Davies) made all the running, with quite a few of these well behind. We are not at all sure that he can repeat this feat and expect Great Endeavour (David Pipe/ Timmy Murphy) to reverse the form. Other dangers are the Nicholls´ pair Poquelin (Ian Popham) - who this last year but is now much higher in the weights- and Robinson Collonges (Fehily), the Henderson pair Mad Max (Paul Carberry) and Dave´s Dream (Geraghty) and German-bred Noble Alan (Nicky Richatds/ Brian Hrding). Th lst two are moving up in distance but if they stay the trip, look very dangerous. There are 5 Irish runners, of whom Fingeronthepulse (Tom Taaffe/ McCoy could come out best, while Pige on Island (Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) is another possible off a very low weight.

The International Hurdle (Grade Two) at 16.05 has three genuine candidates for the Champion Hurdle in the line-up: Cue Card (Colin and Joe Tizzard) and Silviani Conti (Nicholls/ Fehily) both unbeaten so far, and the tough and consistent Menorah (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) who has never finished out of the first two and is unbeaten here. One of this trio will undoubtedly win - possibly Cue Card who looks a champion in the making. The meeting ends with a Grade Two novice hurdle over 3 miles at 16.40, another very tough race in which 7 of the 11 runners are last-time-out winners. Our selection here is Golden Chieftain to make it a double for the Tizzard family.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Woolcombe Folly - Consigliere - Cornas
2. Race: Sam Winner - A Media Luz - Pantxoa
3. Race: Time For Rupert - Chicago Grey - Quinz
4. Race: Karabak - Zaynar - Celestial Halo
5. Race: Master Minded - Twist Magic - Gauvain
6. Race: Dave`S Dream - Little Josh - Robinson Collonges
7. Race: Menorah - Cue Card - Silviniaco Conti
8. Race: Mossley - Highland Valley - Sybarite

Superb card at Cheltenham: first 4 races

Today´s Cheltenham card is one of the best of the entire season, and worthy of the Festival itself, with 8 classy and highly competitive events. It is probably the safest policy to follow trainers in form, especially after a weather break, and Nicky Henderson, with 2 winners here yesterday, and Nigel Twiston-Davies certainly come into that category, while we would be a bit cautious about Paul Nicholls´ runners; the champion trainer has fancied runners in almost very race but had to suffer a couple of reverses yesterday.

In the opening 2 mile handicap chase at 12.40 CET Nicholls´ Woolcombe Folly (Ryan Mahon) has top-weight after winning 7 of his last 8 races; however his only flop came at the Festival here and he has been up 12 lbs for his latest Ascot success and we would rather go against him. David Pipe´s two runners I´msingingtheblues (Danny Cook) and Consigliere (Tom Scudamore) are on our short list, together with Cornas (Nick Williams/ Daryl Jacob) and I´m Delilah (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee) - who fell when looking the likely winner last time. In a really tough race one shoud also consider Oh Crick (Alan King/ Choc Thornton) and Tramantano (Twiston-Davis/ Paddy Brennan), who have both come down the weights.

The 3yo hurdle at 13.10 should concern the penalised runners Pantxao (King/ Choc) and Sam Winner (Nicholls/ Noel Fehily), but the interesting one here is the filly A Media Luz (Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), like the other two French-bred, who was last seen in the Prix de Diane. Henderson`s newcomers are always well schooled and she can score on her first race over the sticks.

The runners in the novice chase over an extended 3 miles at 13.45 are more experienced and here we select Time for Rupert (Paul Webber/ Wayne Kennedy), who has been first or second on all his 4 starts here and stays well. The improved Quinz (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) has won both his starts this season and looks the danger.

The Grade Two Relkeel Hurdle over 2 1/2 miles is the first real highlight on the card. Celestial Halo (Nicholls/ Harry Skelton) is the top-rated runner, having finished in the money in the last two Champion Hurdles, but he is unproven over the distance and is now reverting to hurdles after two feeble efforts over fences. We much prefer Henderson´s two runers Zaynar (Geraghty) and Sentry Duty (Andrew Tinkler), a smart staying handicapper on the flat, but the strong each-way selection is Karabak (King/ Tony McCoy), runner-up last time to Silviani Conti (runs later in the afternoon) with some of these behind.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Woolcombe Folly - Consigliere - Cornas
2. Race: Sam Winner - A Media Luz - Pantxoa
3. Race: Time For Rupert - Chicago Grey - Quinz
4. Race: Karabak - Zaynar - Celestial Halo
5. Race: Master Minded - Twist Magic - Gauvain
6. Race: Dave`S Dream - Little Josh - Robinson Collonges
7. Race: Menorah - Cue Card - Silviniaco Conti
8. Race: Mossley - Highland Valley - Sybarite

Cheltenham today

Despite the loss of the cross-country race, it is still a excellent card at Cheltenham and starts with a very open novice chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 13.10 CET. All 6 runners have useful form, including Rebel du Maquis (Paul Nicholls/ Harry Skelton), unbeaten in two starts over fences; our preference is for Spirit River (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), who fell on his chase debut but can atone for that mistake today; he was the best of these over hurdles, winning at the Festival here last season. Nicholls can in any case take the final novice hurdle with Al Ferof, for whom there are great hopes. He was a smart bumper last season and has not run since finishing second to the top-class Cue Card in the Champion Bumper here. If Noel Fehily is passed fit by the course doctor, he is expected to take the ride, otherwise Sam Thomas will be on board.

The other 4 races are handicaps, all with 16+ runners (4 places!) and all looking very tricky indeed. The best race is the listed chase over 3 miles+ at 15.25, in which Nicholls sets a poser by saddling the top-weight Neptune Collonges (Ryan Mahon) as well as the lightly-weighted Forest Pennant (Ian Popham). The former is clearly the class act in the field, having finished 3rd and 4th in the last two Gold Cups here. Midnight Chase (Neil Mulholland/ Dougie Costello), who has an excellent record here and has won 5 of his last 6 starts, is one obvious danger, so are Nigel Twiston-Davies´ pair Knowhere (Paddy Brennan) and Irish Raptor (David England) as well as the enigmatic but talented Faasel (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore).

We also like the look of Monetary Fund (Henderson/ Geraghty) in the hurdle race at 13.40, Fine Parchment (Charlie Mann/ Peter Toole) in the race for conditional jockeys at 14.15, and German-bred First Stream in the 3 mile hurdle at 14.50. However all these races look very open and there are bound to be some surprises. For those looking for a real long-shot, we suggest Halla San (Richard Fahey/ Brian Hughes) at 13.40.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Spirit River - Rebel Du Maquis - Wishfull Thinking
2. Race: Monetary Fund - Aather - L`Accordioniste
3. Race: Font - Ravethebrave - Wolf Moon
4. Race: Cross Kennon - Ackertac - Duke Of Lucca
5. Race: Neptune Collonges - Midnight Chase - Rare Bob
6. Race: Garde Champetre - King Johns Castle - Sizing Australia
7. Race: Al Ferof - Prince Of Pirates - Master Beau

Hallelujah!

N.H. racing returns today with an excellent card at Cheltenham. The only problem is that the ground on parts of the cross-country course is frozen in places, so that race has been abandoned. The other 6 races go ahead and are all highly competitive. The rest of the weather news however is bad. Today´s N.H. meetings at Doncaster and Gowran Park (Ireland) are off, so are tomorrow´s at Doncaster, Fairyhouse (now rescheduled for the fourth time to next Wednesday) and Lingfield - where an all-weather card will be staged instead. Navan (Ireland) and Fakenham on Sunday have already been called off, but there are still hopes for Huntingdon and Cork (Ireland)

Deauville and Meydan

The racing at Deauville and Meydan is far better than the all-weather offerings in the U.K. today. Deauville once again has a huge card with 13 races and 210 runners declared. Main event is a listed race over 1500 metres at 14.55 CET. With 15 runners, luck in running will probably decide the issue. There are 3 German-trained runners here, including Kite Hunter (Mario and Steffi Hofer), arguably the best horse in the field, but he has to give weight way all round and is badly drawn as well. Le Big (Uwe Stoltefuss/ Jean-Michel Breux) is narrowly preferred to Amazing Beauty (Michael Figge/ Tony Piccone) of the other two Germans, while Beauchamp Viceroy (Ger Butler/ Dane O´Neill) is a dangerous raider from England. Polytechnicien (André Fabre/ Mikael Barzalona) is possibly the best of the French. There are several other German runners on the undercard, and we feel that Kuheylah Atil (Ralf Rohne/ Jerome Claudic) at 13.20 and Fellini (Mario Hofer/ Romain Briard) probably have the best chances.

The most valuable races of the day are run at the new Meydan track in Dubai, but the form is difficult to decipher. The two main events are conditions races over the extended mile at 17.35 and 18.10, in which we select Green Coast (Doug Watson/ Taghd O´Shea) and Monte Alto (Ali al Raihe/ Richard Hills) respectively.

Wolverhampton and Kempton the only meetings left today

Once again, very poor sport on the all-weather today and nothing at all over jumps. This afternoon´s Wolvethampton meeting starts off with a claiming race over 5 furlongs at 14.45 CET. Milton Bradley has entered 3 here, but it is a shame to see his oldtimer The Tatling (Russell Kennemore), a winner at Royal Ascot many moons ago, running in this grade. Of course no-one is likely to claim a 13yo, and we would love to see the old boy win again, but on recent form top-weight Ebraam (Ron Harris/ Andrea Atzeni) must be preferred. The 8 1/2 furlongs handicap at 1620 looks quite tricky; Royal Island (Mick Quinlan/ Jamie Spencer) won at Lingfield last week from Shared Moment (Jeff Gallagher/ Amy Ryan) and can possibly repeat this result on the same terms. Three other recent winners who can score again are Sky Diamond (James Given/ Micky Fenton) in the 2yo handicap at 15.15, Loyalty (Derek Shaw/ Pat Mathers) at 16.50 and Mush Mir (James Boyle/ Steven Craine) at 17.20.

The best race this evening at Kempton is the 2 mile handicap at 19.00. Spring Jim (James Fanshawe/ George Baker), also a useful hurdler, ran a good race on turf at Doncaster last time, but the one to beat is surely Morar (Laura and Ian Mongan); this ex-French 4yo came right back to his best form after 3 very bad races when winning over this CD last time and can follow up. The 6 furlongs handicap half an hour later is also quite open. Stratton Banker (Steve Williams/ William Carson) is very consistent and won last week at Lingfield over 5 furlongs but also gets this trip. Top-weight Loujanie (Dean Ivory/ Adam Kirby) was just touched off last time, also at Lingfield, and looks the main danger. Kirby has another good chance on top-weight Aurora Sky in the 10 furlongs handicap at 17.20, but Negotiation (Mick Quinn/ Frannie Norton) was only just behind him last time and should be close again.

Cheltenham only bright spot for N.H. fans

Today´s N.H. meetings at Ludlow and Taunton have been abandoned, while it is hoped to stage the Huntingdon meeting, including the valuable Peterborough Chase, also scheduled for today, on Sunday. Tomorrow´s meetings at Doncaster and Gowran Park in Ireland have already been cancelled, as is Doncaster´s Saturday fixture: Lingfield has a jumps meeting on Saturday, but if conditions do not improve (seems unlikely) will switch to a new all-weather card. The big Fairyhouse meeting, already rescheduled three times, including 3 Grade One races, is now planned to be staged on Saturday, but looks very doubtful. Prospects remain extremely unfavourable for N.H. racing for the next few days, with most areas under a deep blanket of snow and severe frosts at night. Particularly bad is the situation in Scotland, northern England and most of Ireland. The one bright spot is Cheltenham, and officials there seem confident that their big meeting tomorrow and Saturday will go ahead as planned.

Huge fields at Deauville

The racing at Deauville is certainly of better quality than at the 3 British and Irish all-weather tracks today, but looks a minefield for punters, as there are huge fields - over 200 runners in 13 (!) races -possibly a French record- and luck in running will undoubtedly play a major role. There are 18 runners in the main fature, a listed race over 1900 metres at 14.55 CET, including 2 Germans - King of Sydney (Mario Hofer/ Flavien Prat) and Usbeke (Jean-Pierre Carvalho/ Thierry Jarnet). Both are in good form, but it looks a very tough race. Our tentative suggestion , despite top weight, is Pallodio (John Hammond/ Fabrice Veron), one of France´s top horses on this surface.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Baileys Etoile - A Moment With You - Star Fou Javilex
2. Race: Calling The Moon - Majesty Davis - Corps De Garde
3. Race: Amber Two - Ebony Rose - Kaslik
4. Race: Pallodio - Russian Cross - Pont des Arts
5. Race: Cruz Del Sur - Zimri - Voodoo`s Son
6. Race: Tulipano - L`Ami Gaby - Selwyn
7. Race: Larmont - Hiram - Cuando Cuanto
8. Race: Elhofa - Unwritten Note - Korovos

All-weather racing today

Plenty of all-weather action today, with racing at Kempton and Lingfield in England and Dundalk in Ireland. The Kempton card opens with a very tricky 5 furlongs handicap at 15.20 CET. Top-weight Feeling Foxy (James Given/ James Sullivan) has an obvious chance in this company, but we prefer Picansort (BR Johnson/ Jack Mitchell), who showed improved form to win a maiden this CD last time and starts handicapping off a realistic mark. GermAn-bred All the Winds (Sam Lycett/ Russell Kennemore) won over this CD last time and can follow up in the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.20; the danger could be Kidlat (Alan Bailey/ Graham Gibbons), who seems to be coming back to form and is well handicapped. Kennemore could possibly complete a double on Milton Bradley´s top-weight Dancing Welcome in the 7 furlongs handicap at 18.50, but our best bet here is Red Rhythm (Luca Cumani/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) in the 6 furlongs maiden at 16.50.

The jockey to follow at Lingfield could be Jamie Spencer, who could win the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 15.10 and Norman Orpen, the only 3yo in the field for the 7 furlongs handicap half an hour later. The well-bred Cheyne Walk (Jeremy Noseda/ Hayley Turner) has never run and therefore very much an unknown quantity; however if he has any ability at all then he should win the 10 furlongs maiden at 16.10 as the opposition looks very weak.

The best race at Dundalk is the mile handicap at 17.00, where any of the 10 runners could win. However the three top-weights Banna Boirche (Mike Halford/ Shane Foley), Boynagh Joy (J Halpin/ Sean Levey) and Dagindar (Eddie Lynam/ Fran Berry) are all in great form and are all CD specialists, so one of them will probably win. Otherwise it might pay to follow Joseph O´Brien, Aidan´s teenage son, who still has a chance of being crowned champion Irish apprentice for 2010. He has several fancied mounts, including the 2yo´ s Pirate Chest and Alexander Pope in the first two races, both trained by his father.

once again, no N.H. racing today

Once again there is no N.H. racing today - Hexham and Leicester were called off some days ago, as well as the big Irish meeting at Fairyhouse which, it is hoped, will now be staged on Saturday. However there is plenty of all-weather action today, with Kempton and Lingfield in England, Dundalk in Ireland and a strong card at Deauville in France.

Tomorrow´s N.H. fixtures at Ludlow and Taunton have also been called off, and the big Punchestown meeting will now - weather permitting- be staged next Tuesday. Prospects for Huntingdon tomorrow do not look so good, but an inspection will be held later.

The good news is that temperatures are expected to rise at the weekend and Cheltenham´s big meeting looks safe; however Doncaster, where the ground is still frozen, looks doubtful.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Southwell

More low level racing at today´s all-weather meetings at Lingfield and Southwell. If there are any better class horses on view, it can only be in the mile race for 2yo maiden fillies at 14.20 CET at Lingfield. Hawaafez (Marcus Tregoning/ George Baker) and Al Khatma (Marco Botti/ Adam Kirby) both showed promise on their debuts and are the pick on public form, but the newcomers Baisse (Henry Cecil/ Kelly Harrison) - racing in the colours of Gerhard Schöningh- and Movingly (John Gosden/ William Buick) could be very dangerous. Battleoftrafalgar (Mike Attwater/ Nicky Mackay) is an interesting runner in the 1 1/2 miles handicap at 15.50; previously trained by Aidan O´Brian, he failed to live up to expectations in Ireland, but could well be capable of scoring at this level on his British debut. James Boyle sent out two winners yesterday and can keep up the good work with The Fifth Member (Steven Craine) - winner last time on heavy ground at Ayr, but seems to go on any ground, at 1 5.20, while Orchard Supreme (Jon Akehurst/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) does not win very often these days but has found a relatively simple opportunity in the claimer at 13.50. Finally the inconsistent Nubar Boy (David Evans/ Martin Lane) ran well last time and has also scored his only victory over this CD; he has an each-way chance in the final 7 furlongs handicap at 16.20.

At Southwell, the safest tactic is probably to rely on CD specialists. Thus Ron Brotherton must have chances with Cape of Storms (Tom Eaves) in the first division of the 6 furlongs handicap at 13.00 and Bryan Smart with Final Salute (A Carter) in the second division at 16.30. Brotherton also saddles Jackie Kiely (Phillip Makin) at 15.00 and Smart Flash City (Carter) , who won here on Saturday, in the 2yo handicap at 13.30. All these are CD winners and usually show their best form here. Another Saturday CD winner is Cape Vale (David and Adrian Nicholls), who made all to win over 6 furlongs and now runs over 5 at 14.00; Love Delta (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairly) started favourite for that race, but could only finish third; he may be able to reverse the placings on 6 lbs better terms.

No jumps racing today

Once again, all today´s jumps meetings have been cancelled (Fontwell and Sedgefield) and the frosty weather is still with us, leaving the outlook for the next few days very grim. Tomorrow´s cards at Hexham and Leicester have already been abandoned, as well as the big Irish meeting at Fairyhouse, while Thursday´s Irish meeting at Punchestown is also off. Both these Irish meetings, featuring several Grade One races, have already been rescheduled and it is hoped to stage the Fairyhouse meeting this Saturday and Punchestown and Tuesday. Ludlow and Taunton on Thursday have already been called off, while Huntingdon looks very doubtful. The fixtures at the weekend are also in danger unless the cold snap ends quickly, but it seems that officials at Cheltenham are confident that their big meeting on Friday and Saturday will go ahead as planned.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Southwell

All of today´s races are class 5 or 6, so no great performances can be expected. Our best bet at Lingfield is Reem Star (Ed Dunlop/ Eddie Ahern) in the mile maiden for 2yo´s at 14.00 CET. This close relation to Amico Fritz was noted running on well when runner-up last time at Wolverhampton, and that form should suffice, the unraced Aldedash (Henry Cecil/ Ian Mongan) could be a threat. The mile handicap half an hour later is much more open.

Final Drive (John Ryan/ Ahern) has won his last 3 races, but now meets Syrian (Ian Williams/ Jamie Spencer) on significantly worse terms. Tevez (Donovan /Cathy Gannon) was also in good form when last seen, but has had a short break, and we have a sneaking fancy for Prince of Thebes( Mike Attwater/ Kieren Fox); he is not the most consistent, but likes this track and has come down a long way in the weights. Ex-Italian Indefinite Hope (Marco Botti/ Andrea Atzeni) is an interesting runner on his British debut in the 3yo handicap at 15.30. However it is hard to say what the form is worth, and consistent Sheila´s Bond (Stan Moore/ Luke Morris) may be the safer option.
Claiming races are not the most reliable events, but Sworn Tigress (George Baker/ Matthew Davies), bred by Gestüt Wittekindshof and owned by Sir Alec Ferguson looks a good thing in the 13.50 race over 1 1/2 miles at Southwell. The meeting here is an additional fixture and the racecourse has made a shrewd move in putting on 3 bumpers at the end of the card, all of which look quite competitive.

Tony McCoy is an interesting booking for Richard Fahey´s unraced Reia in the 3yo race at 15.20, but we most like Main Beach (TP Coles/ Dominic Elsworth) here, as he ran well for a long way against much better opposition last time. The mares bumper at 15.50 should lie between Tazzarine (Charlie Egerton/ McCoy) and Verde Goodwood (Oliver Sherwood/ Leighton Aspell), both of whom showed decent form in the spring but have not raced since, while the final bumper half an hour later can go to the penalised Max Laurie (M Banks/ Tom Molloy), who won at 33/1 when scoring at Towcester, but will not be nearly that price today.

No jumps racing today

Today´s N.H. meetings at Musselburgh and Bangor have been called off, leaving only the two all-weather tracks Lingfield and Southwell (with a substitute programme) staging racing. Sedgefield´s fixture tomorrow has been called off, but Fontwell is still possible (though by no means certain), while Hexham on Wednesday has already been called off, with Leicester looking doubtful.

There are also doubts about Huntingdon`s big meeting on Thursday, with the Peterborough Chase, their best race of the year), and both big Irish midweek meetings (already rescheduled as they were abandoned on their original dates) look very doubtful.

Warwick off - third inspection at Exeter

it was hoped that today could be the day for the resumption of N.H. racing- but these hopes could be dashed. Warwick has already been called off, while there is a further inspection at Exeter. Should Exeter go ahead, punters are strongly advised to check for non-runners, of which there are certain to be quite a few.
Two people who will be hoping more than most for racing to be staged are top trainer -who has two of his stables most promising types engaged - and Robert "Choc" Thornton, due to make his comeback after being sidelined for 5 months with a knee injury. Choc has 2 rides for his retaining stable of Alan King, but his best chance is probably Richard Lee´ s Incentivise in the 4 mile handicap chase at 14.50 CET.
Nicholls has booked Daryl Jacobs to ride his two big hopes today- Sanctuaire in the 4yo handicap hurdle at 13.50 and Royal Charm in the novice chase half an hour later. There are tiny fields in both these events, but plenty of runners in the other races - assuming they all turn up, which is unlikely.

all-weather racing today

there is all-weather today at Lingfield and Dundalk, both with very low level racing.
At Lingfield, the 7 furlongs handicap for 2yo´s seems to lie between the top weights Podgie´s Boy (Richard Fahey/ Tom Eaves) and Georgie Iris (Dane O´Neill), one of two Richard Hannon runners. We prefer the former, and the same team can score half an hour later with another top-weight Sioux Rising, who has been running in better events. However this 6 furlong handicap is a very open race, and we are afraid of Baby Dottie (Paul Phelan/ Ian Mongan), who after a series of places got off the mark with a very easy maiden success this CD and whose handicap rating seems reasonable. In th two divisions of the 5 furlongs handicap which close the card our each-way choices are Chjimes (Conor Dore/ Robert Winston) at 16.00 and Edith´s Boy (Simon Dow/ Hayley Turner) half an hour later, both of whom have shown their best form at this track.
There are some large fields at the Irish meeting at Dundalk, but some of the horses engaged ran here yesterday, so the non-runners list must be checked. Aidan O `Brien is trying to support his son Joseph´s efforts to be crowned Irish champion apprentice and the duo have several chances, the best probably being the well-bred Amazing Beauty in the 3yo fillies maiden at 14.35. Easily the best race of the day is the10 1/2 furlongs handicap at 17.05. Useful hurdler Pires (Tony Martin/ Fran Berry) is also a useful performer on the flat and should go close, but we prefer Elusive Ridge (Harry Rogers/ Pat Smullen) and Westflower Boy (Eddie Lynam/ Wayne Lordan), both CD winners last time out.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Its You Again - Buddy Miracle - Justbookie Dot Com
2. Race: Abulharith - Tifoso - Suhailah
3. Race: Rainsborough - Fly By Nelly - Ermyntrude
4. Race: Podgies Boy - Geordie Iris - Piece Of Mind
5. Race: Baby Dottie - Even Bolder - Sioux Rising
6. Race: You`Relikemefrank - Chjimes - Bluebok
7. Race: Bidruma - Miss Polly Plum - Sleepy Blue Ocean

four all-weather tracks today

the best race of the day is the 7 furlongs handicap at Kempton at 16.40 CET with 12 runners, some of them with listed race experience. Jane Chapple-Hyam´s Arteus (Robert Wiston) could start favourite in this very open event; he has the plum draw and last time beat several of these in a similar race at Lingfield. However we would not be surprised to see Seek the Fair Land (James Boyle/ Matthew Davies) or Autumn Blades (Alan Bailey/ Dcvid Probert), 2nd and 3rd then, turn the tables at the revised weights today. Autumn Blades has since been well beaten in a much better race, but despite his strenuous programme- it is his 4th start in 2 weeks-, he is our selection. Probert can also win the preceding race, a mile handicap, on Andrew Balding´s Suffolk Punch, who has been running in better company and seems nicely handicapped. Our best bet here is Cast of Stars (Ralph Beckett/ George Baker) in the maiden race over 11 furlongs at 17.10; on form he seems to have only the Queen´s Fasci nation (Michael Bell/ Hayley Turner) to beat.
There is also a decent handicap at Southwell, this time over 6 furlongs at 15.55. Ingleby Arch (David Barron/ Phillip Makin) and Imprimis Tagula (Alan Bailey/ Natasha Eaton) are absolute CD specialists, who can never be left out of calculations here, but our choice is Love Delta (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley); he has a big weight for a 3yo but put up some useful performances here earlier in the year and seems to be coming back to form. Mark Johnston can also take the 11 furlongs handicap half an hour later with Realisation. He has booked the claimer CD Byrne and as a result he meets likely favourite Cosimo de Medici (Hughie Morrison( Steve Drowne), who finished in front of him last time, on much better terms today. There could be some decent 2yo´s engaged in the mile maiden at 13.50, but this is a race to watch rather than to bet on.
The card at Wolverhampton this evening is less exciting. The most interesting runner could be Irish-trained Brabazon (Emmet Butterly/ Julie Burke) in the 2 mile handicap at 20.50. He landed a huge gamble last week at Lingfield, and carries only a 6 lbs penalty for that 10 lengths success; if he doesn´t "bounce" (it was his first start for over 2 years) he should win again.
In Ireland the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 16.35 at Dundalk looks very open; our two against the field are both trained by jumps trainers- Dazzle Dancer(Willie Mullins/ ED Linehan) and Keelaghan (Tony Martin/ Kevin Manning). Otherwise it could pay to follow champion jockey Pat Smullen, who has several promising rides, notably Tony Martin´s Munnings at 16.05 and Jeremy Nash´s Star of Aragon at 17.05.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Palais Glide - Swift Breeze - Avon Supreme
2. Race: Treacle Tart - Green Wadi - Pertuis
3. Race: Fantasy Gladiator - Having A Ball - Blakey`S Boy
4. Race: Mia`S Boy - Arteus - Seek The Fair Land
5. Race: Cast Of Stars - Fascination - Wade Farm Billy
6. Race: Empress Charlotte - Amazon Twilight - Magical Star

no jumps racing, but plenty of all-weather action

all N.H. racing has been called off today because of the bad weather, but there is still plenty of action with four all-weather meetings- Southwell and Kempton this afternoon, Dundalk in Ireland and Wolverhampton this evening.
Prospects for the next few days are still grim, with numerous meetings already called off, but the situation is expected to improve slightly from mid-week on. It looks as if Fontwell on Tuesday will be the first N.H. track with racing since the big freeze began 10 days ago.

Lingfield and Wolverhampton

Although some more light snow is possible, it seems that today´s two all-weather meetings at Lingfield and Wolverhampton are safe. The most interesting race of the day is the mile event for 2yo maiden fillies at 14.10 at Lingfield CET, which has quite a strong field for this time of year. Lady Rosamunde (Marcus Tregoning/ Hayley Turner) looks the form choice, having finished second on her only start so far, but Al Khatma (Marco Botti/ Adam Kirby) and Twin Soul (Andrew Balding/ David Probert) are expected to improve on their debut performnces, while two well-bred newcomers from top stables add spice to the mix- Baisse (Henry Cecil/ Kelly Harrison), running in the colours of Gerhard Schöningh,and Movingly (John Gosden/ Robert Havlin).

Balding and Probert also have a chance with Suffolk Punch in the mile handicap at 15.30, but we prefer Nazreef (Hughie Morrison/ Travis Block), while top-weight Harold Bluetooth( David Slimcock/ Fergus Sweeney) and The Fifth Member (James Boyle/ Steven Craine) are also not out of it in an open race. It is not often that one finds an improving 8yo on the flat, but that could be the case with Willie Musson´ s Mongoose Alert (Steven Donohoe), and we expect him to follow up last week´s easy win at Wolverhampton in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 15.55.

There are 10 races at Wolverhampton, but some of the fields are small and all of them are poor. Our best bet here is Mr. Emirati (Bryan Smart/ A Carter), who was a non-runner yesterday, but can win the apprentice handicap against very modest opposition at 16.45. Hayley Turner, who is riding earlier at Lingfield, can land an cross-the-card double on David Simcock´ s Dahaam in the handicap over the extended mile at 17.45, but this is quite a tricky race.

With traffic conditions very bad, there are quite likely to be several non-runners at both tracks.

Bad weather news continues

With the whole of the U.K. and Ireland blanketed under snow, the outlook for N.H. racing for the next few days continues to look grim. Today´s meetings at Sandown and Exeter have long since been abandoned, while Ireland´s all-weather meeting at Dundalk has also been cancelled; the problem there - as at Lingfield yesterday- is not so much the condition of the track as the problems with the access roads.

However the meeting has been transferred to Sunday, and it is expected conditions tomorrow and then will be better. Tomorrow´s N.H. meetings at Sandown, Chepstow, Wetherby and Navan (Ireland) have all been cancelled. Sandown´s Tingle Creek Chase, one of the best 2 mile races of the season, will now be run at Cheltenham on Saturday week; while this is better than nothing, it is not ideal as the two tracks are totally different in character. A horse like the German-bred Twist Magic, for example, a real Sandown specialist, would probably have no chance at all at Cheltenhams much tougher track.

Sunday´s jumps meetings have already been called off, with the exception of Warwick, which is still doubtful. The big Punchestown meeting in Ireland will now be staged next Thursday (weather, of course, permitting). The forecast is for a slight improvement in the weather next week, but it will probably not be till the end of the week that we are back to a full programme of racing on turf. Prospects for the big Cheltenham meeting on Friday and Saturday however look quite bright.

Wolverhampton this evening the only meeting left today

Seven low level races at Wolverhampton are all that is now left from today´s fixtures. The opening apprentices handicap over 1 1/2 miles at 17.00 CET features Final Drive (John Ryan/ Joshua Crane), who has won his last 3 races but has a huge weight as a result. He won over this CD 3 weeks ago from Strike Force (Olivia Mayhem/ Kieren Fox), who now meets him on much better terms.

The 2yo maiden at 19.00 should go to Geoff Oldroyd´s Lady Platinum Club (A. Carter) , beaten a head in a much stronger field over this CD 3 weeks ago. The handicaps look very tricky, although the fields are not large. Tiradito (Marco Botti/ Andrea Atzeni) showed improved form to finish runner-up over this CD last time, and could go one better in the 7 furlongs race at 18.00, but Hulcote Rose (Sylvester Kirk/ John Doyle) looks a big danger; she won here last time over 6 furlongs, but gets this longer trip well enough.

The 5 furlongs race at 19.30 also looks open. Top-weight La Capriosa (David Nicholls/ Ian Mongan) showed good form when winning at Southwell last time, but seems to reserve his best performances for that track, while Grudge (Conor Dore/ Hayley Turner) runs his best races at Wolverhampton, where he has been first or second on the last 6 occasions he has run here. Sloop Johnb is another danger; he was slowly away when finishing third last time after an earlier win. With very poor traffic conditions, there are likely to be several non-runners, e.g. our original fancy Mr. Emirati in the first race.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Inpursuitoffreedom - Final Drive - Strike Force
2. Race: So Is She - Ivan`S A Star - Mediplomat
3. Race: Hulcote Rose - Tiradito - Methaaly
4. Race: Magic Cross - Shutterbug - Bachelor Knight
5. Race: Wolf Slayer - Lady Platinum Club - Loyal N Trusted
6. Race: Sloop Johnb - Grudge - La Capriosa
7. Race: Rhythm Stick - Port Hill - Defence Of Realm

Kempton this afternoon the only meeting left today

With all N.H. racing off again, Kempton this afternoon (switched from the evening) is now the only racing left today, but the card is not inspiring.Best bet of the day should be Iron Condor (James Eustace/ Luke Morris) in the 3yo handicap over 1 1/2 miles at 17.00 CET. He has already won twice over CD recently and put up his best performance here on Sunday when runner-up to hot favourite Spensley. A repetition of that form would be good enough for him to go one better now. Morris could be in for a good day, as he has several other promising rides, notably Mark Usher´s May´s Boy in the 2yo handicap at 16.30; he is penalised 6 lbs for an easy CD win last week, but is now in a better grade and Muntasib (Marcus Tregoning/ Richard Hills), who won a Lingfield maiden in October, looks a real danger. It is Hills´ only ride of the day.

The mile maiden at 16.00 is for 3-, 4-, and 5yo´s but in fact all 10 runners are aged 3. The two likeliest candidates are Handsome King (John Jenkins/ Fergus Sweeney) and Faithful Duchess (Ed Vaughan/ Jamie Spencer).

The 3 handicaps over 6 furlongs which close the card all look really tricky, but we fancy that Vhujon (David Evans/ Cathy Gannon) at 17.30 and Dvinsky (Paul Howling/Jimmy Quinn) an hour later may be worth a tiny each-way investment.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Ymir - Kadouchski - Abhainn
2. Race: Danzigs Grandchild - Skeleton - Danube Dancer
3. Race: Handsome King - Faithful Duchess - Libertino
4. Race: Muntasib - Dozy Joe - May`S Boy
5. Race: Iron Condor - Valid Reason - Gomrath
6. Race: Dark Lane - Vhujon - Flash Mcgahon
7. Race: Hidden Destiny - Cavitie - Mack`S Sister
8. Race: Liberty Trail - Doctor Hilary - Whatyouwoodwishfor

Grim outlook continues for N.H. racing

All today´s 4 N.H. fixtures - Ayr, Catterick, Plumpton and Navan in Ireland, have fallen victim to the weather, so the only racing today is on Kempton´s all weather track; originally scheduled as an evening meeting, this has now very sensibly been switched to the afternoon. It is the same story tomorrow, where the only racing will be on the all-weather - including a new fixture at Lingfield - and all N.H. meetings - Leicester, Market Rasen, Wincanton and Fairyhouse (Ireland) have already been abandoned. The loss of Fairyhouse´s big meeting, with 7 graded races, is especially annoying, as this was already rescheduled from last weekend; it is now hoped to stage the meeting next Wednesday, December 8th.

The outlook for the weekend does not look much better, with Exeter on Friday and Sandown´s big two-day fixture looking doubtful, as well as the big Sunday card in Ireland at Punchestown. There is however expected to be a slight improvement in the weather next week.