German runners at Deauville

Deauville´s fibresand track today once again has a mammoth card of 12 races - 4, all for 2yo´s, in the morning, and 8 in the afternoon, with numerous German-trained and ex-German runners, as well as entries from Holland, Italy and Switzerland. Only German runner before lunch is Ralf Rohne´s Black Law (Ronan Thomas) in a 2yo seller at 12.20. In the afternoon, Pridal (Andreas Löwe/ Carina Fey) runs in a 3yo claiming race for young jockeys over 1500 metres at 14.05, and an hoiur later Sweet Fighter (Sascha Smrczek/ Delphine Santiago) on a claimer for older horses over 1900 metres, in which ex-Germans Ardbeg and Lucky Limbo are also engaged. Possibly the best chance of a German winner is Dieter Fechner´s Global Dream (Dominique Boeuf) in the claiming race over 1300 metres at 15.35. He was a big disappointment last time, but normally must be able to show up well in this company; Atlantic Fantasy (Uwe Stoltefuss/ Delphne Santiago) is another German hope here, however a major danger is ex-Werner Glanz Assam (Georg Bocskai), who is now trained in Switzerland by Carmen Bocskai and stands out here on his 2007 form. Dunedin Star (Mario Hofer/ Jeremy Croquevieille) and Princess d´Etreham (Vincent Vion) both run in the claiming race for 3yo fillies over 1500 metres at 16.35.

Betting forecast (morning):
1.Race: Cocody - Chombo - Ombromanto
2.Race: Antarige - Valdingue - Isaonor
3.Race: Zanoobow - Master Winter - Sorokin
4.Race: Singapore Treat - Tangeante - Alamagane

Betting forecast (afternoon):
1.Race: Valenzuela - Rava - Halong Bay
2.Race: Sendawalis - Royal Protector - Boisleduc
3.Race: Leiden - Starwoman - Summer Shrill
4.Race: Spectral - Low Budget - Gallardo
5.Race: Nakaling - Dawaraki - Gran Yago
6.Race: Viens Diner - Theorique - Baroudyx
7.Race: Bacarrita - Une Stephanoise - Boccatenera
8.Race: Fridoline - Le Prefet - Remember James

Irish racing today

There are no weather problems in Ireland, where two N.H., meetings are scheduled today, at Punchestown and Tramore. The former track has easily the better card, and the most interesting runner here should be Ebaziyan (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) in the 2 1/2 mile hurdle race at 14.15 CET. He has not been seen out since running third to Punjabi in April, but at anywhere near his best should outclass today´s opposition. Mullins and Walsh, both currently riding high, can also take the 3yo hurdle at 15.45 with another ex-John Oxx/ Aga Khan runner, the newcomer Mourad, easily the best flat race performer in the large field.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Equus Maximus - Bronx Girl - Forest Leaves
2.Race: Ebaziyan - Coolcashin - Sabina Park
3.Race: Imaalhall - Kennel Bridge - Red Vinto
4.Race: Carnbridge - Cnoc An Einn - Britannicus
5.Race: Mourad - Manor Park - Celtic Strand
6.Race: Selection Box - Jack Absolute - Wheels Up
7.Race: Perfectly Composed - Lead Kindly Light - Judge Lily



At Tramore, Irish Realm (P. Magnier/ Robbie Colgan), runner-up in a similar event at Downpatrick last time, can take the beginners chase at 16.05.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Indian Spring - Bannow Rose - Monty Blue
2.Race: Cruising Katie - Howyakeepan - Stella Matutina
3.Race: Master`N Commander - Lord Of The Tavern - Perambulating Lady
4.Race: Watchurhouse - Ballymahon - Simple Approach
5.Race: Alberoni - Paddy Joe - Valentia Lady
6.Race: Irish Realm - Guitar Rory - Beenbawnbenny
7.Race: Harbour Hall - Below The Deck - Nataani

all-weather racing at Lingfield

With both Warwick and Uttoxeter abandoned, Lingfield´s all-weather flat meeting will be the only British racing today. With 7 of the 8 races class 6, the old year can certainly be said to be going out, not with a bang, but a whimper. The best race is the final 7 furlongs hanicap at 16.30 CET, which can go to bottom-weight I Confess (David Evans/ Neil Callan), a CD winner last time out, and the same trainer/ jockey combination can also take the 1 1/2 mile seller at 13.30 with Nawamees, who is dropping in grade. Hayley Turner rode her 100th winner of 2008 last night at Wolverhampton, and with the pressure now off, can take the 6 furlongs handicap at 15.00 with Mister Thatcher, who can complete a quick hat-trick.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Today`S The Day - Dimander - Maswerte
2.Race: Nawamees - Wind Flow - Daring Racer
3.Race: Captain Walcot - Cut And Thrust - Itsher
4.Race: Mr Willis - Song Of Praise - Deckchair
5.Race: Mister Thatcher - River Kirov - Mistress Cooper
6.Race: Now You See Me - Lady Bahia - Woqoodd
7.Race: Lithaam - Fastrac Boy - Our Fugitive
8.Race: I Confess - Southandwest - Cornus

cold weather blues

The current cold weather in Britain is causing major problems for the jumps meetings scheduled this week. There are inspections at both today´s N.H. meetings at Warwick and Uttoxeter; tomorrow´s New Year´s day fixture at Cheltenham seems likely to go ahead, but there are doubts about Fakenham and Exeter, while Ayr´s Friday/ Saturday fixture as well as Sandown´s high-class card on Saturday are also under threat.

LATER: as feared, both Warwick and Uttoxeter today have been abandoned because of frost.

German runners at Deauville

the winter meeting on the fibregrass track at Deauville has been a big hit with owners and trainers and once again there are maximum fields today in all 12 races (4 before lunch, 8 in the afternoon). Numerous would-be runners had to be eliminated, including several trained in Germany. Just 3 German runners are left, 2 of which contest the claiming race for 3yo fillies over 2400 metres at 14.05: Quadraga (Hans Blume/ Jeremy Croquemonsieur) and Born to Win (Christian von der Recke/ Vincent Vion). In a similar race at Lyon recently, Quardaga finished well in front of Born to Win and logically we should have the same result today. 11yo Grantley (Heinz Hesse/ Julien Augé) is the other German runner; the veteran sandtrack specialist runs in a handicap over 1900 metres at 16.05

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Magic Brent - Glatteis - West Wing
2.Race: Pirina - Academix - Quadraga
3.Race: Ritca City - Rebecca de Thaix - Rotonde
4.Race: Schlague - Bodegon - Bright Luck
5.Race: El Chulo - Mojacar - Kenacky
6.Race: Henry Morgann - Spring Is Here - Kasali
7.Race: Marschall First - Lucky Number - Green Singer
8.Race: Ka Nordik - Triumvirat - Almaguer

century for Hayley Turner?

today´s two all-weather meetings offer very little in terms of quality racing, and main interest will be centred on Hayley Turner´s attempt to ride a century of winners in 2008, a feat achieved by no other female jockey in Europe. After a double at Great Leighs yesterday, she is now on 98 for the year, and has 3 rides this afternoon at Lingfield and 5 this evening at Wolverhampton. At Lingfield, she appears to be riding the stable´s second string in the opening claiming race at 13.20 CET, Obrigado for Gary Moore, and probably has better chances on Newlyn Art for David Elsworth in the 2yo handicap at 15.30 and Star Strider for Gay Kelleway in the mile handicap at 16.05. This is the best race on the card and very open, with Titan Triumph (Wilf Knight/ Jim Crowley) the likely favourte after 3 recent wins. Hayley possibly has better chances of a winner (or two) this evening at Wolverhampton. Kilkenny Boy in the opening 2yo maiden for Willie Jarvis at 19.20 gave a promising debut recently, Mullitovermaurice for James Given on the 2yo claimer at 19.50 is an outsider, but Northern Empire for Kevin Ryan in the 5 furlongs handicap at 20.50 is the likely davourte after a CD win 11 days ago; however this is a difficult race with oldtimer The Tatling (Milton Bradley/ Jack Dean) and CD specialist Almaty Express (John Weymes/ Jim Crowley) just 2 of several dangers.Hayley partners Synonymy for Michael Blashard in the 2 miles handicap at 21.20, but CD winner Zuwaar (Ian Williams/ Jim Crowley) looks the likeliest winner here, while her final mount Tri Chara for local trainer Reg Hollinshead in the 7 furlongs handicap at 22.20 should run well after finishing 2nd here last time out. Should she fail to reach the 100 today, she has more chances at Lingfield tomorrow, but it won´t be easy.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Sakheart - Granny Mcphee - Kilkenny Bay
2.Race: Special Bond - True Britannia - Amazing Blue Sky
3.Race: Imaginary Diva - Chimbonda - Officer Mor
4.Race: Northern Empire - The Tatling - Little Edward
5.Race: Zuwaar - Amron Hill - Special Pearl
6.Race: Ravi River - Dvinsky - Silvanus
7.Race: This Ones For Eddy - A Big Sky Brewing - Tri Chara

Ireland today

the big Leopardstown jristma meeting ends today, when the main feature is the Grade One Festival Hurdle at 14.55 CET has attracted an excellent field.However at the time of writing it is not clear if Sizing Europe (Harry de Bromhead/ Andrew McNamara) will be able to run following a slight setback yesterday. If he does line up, he is clearly the oneto beat, althogh the opposiiton is very strong, headed by Cheltenham heroes Hardy Eustace (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood), Brave Inca (Colm Murphy/ Ruby Walsh) and Sublimity (Robbie Hennessy/ Phlip Carberry). Ex-German Aitmatov (Noel Meade/ Paul Townend) faces a stiff task here. The listed hurdle race for mares over 2 1/2 miles half an hour later is also a top race, with Pomme Tiepy (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) the likely favourite; however the drying ground may not be in her favour, and top-weight Give it Time (Jessica Harrington/ MJ Bolger) and the maiden Shirley Casper, trained by Dessie Hughes and partnered by his son, flat jockey Richard, could come out on top today. There is also Irish N.H. racing today at Limerick, where ex-German Orange Touch (Eric McNamara/ BC Byrnes) is a possible each-way bet in the handicap hurdle at 15.10. The more the ground dries out, the better the chances of the Lando gelding.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Cleni Boy - Kilbane River - Tamayo
2.Race: Dancing Tornado - Candy Girl - Jimmy Ber
3.Race: Boulavogue - Horner Woods - Deutschland
4.Race: Sizing Europe - Sublimity - Brave Inca
5.Race: Give It Time - Pomme Tiepy - Garrai Ard
6.Race: Corskeagh Royale - Judge Roy Bean - Ten Fires
7.Race: Lord Over - Rhyl Accord - Long Strand

Great Leighs and Musselburgh

there is also N.H. racing this afternoon at Musselburgh in Scotland, while the all-weather flat race action today is limited to Great Leighs, where two class 3 handicaps top the bill. The mile race at 16.40 CET could go to top-weight Red Somerset (Ron Hodges/ George Baker), who is in good form, but the bottom-weight Trafalgar Square (Mike Attwater/ Jim Crowley) won welllast time and is a big threat. There are only 6 runners in the 10 furlongs handicap half an hour later; the improving 3yo Robby Bobby (Mark Johnston/ Geg Fairley) is moving up in grade after winning at Southwell last week, but can score again, at the main expense of top-weight Australia Day (Paul Webber/ Martin Dwyer), who is coming off a break. At Musselburgh, Red Moloney (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan) looks a near-certainty for the introductory hurdle at 14.15; this smart flat horse, third in the Irish St. Leger, was an easy winner on his hurdles debut and meets only inferior opposition here. His trainer and jockey can complete a double with Gringo in the handicap hurdle at 15.20, where Folk Tune (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee) looks the main danger. Watch my Back (Murphy/ Lee) should run well in the 2 mile handivap chase at 15.55, where Categorical (Keith and James Reveley) looks the one to beat.

Betting forecast for Great Leighs:
1.Race: Fantasy Fighter - Duke Of Milan - Westwood Dawn
2.Race: Welsh Opera - Perlachy - Tamino
3.Race: Little Calla - Princess Zohra - Sky High Kid
4.Race: Don Pele - Secret Dubai - Wotashirtfull
5.Race: Dover Street Art - Tartan Gunna - Toll Road
6.Race: Red Somerset - Princely Hero - Trafalgar Square
7.Race: Australia Day - Robby Bobby - Mafeking
8.Race: Rawaabet - Itsawindup - Missie Baileys



Betting forecast:
1.Race: Broadway Star - Le Vert Galant - Fortysecond Street
2.Race: Divex - Balakar - Snowy
3.Race: Red Moloney - Grand Diamond - Casual Affair
4.Race: Don`T Stop Me Now - West With The Wind - Vivaldi
5.Race: Gringo - Charlie Crab - Quick Will
6.Race: Moor Spirit - Or De Grugy - Categorical
7.Race: Kyber - King In Waiting - Bolodenka

Newbury this afternoon

main feature of a good card at Newbury today is the Grade One Challow Hurdle for novices over 2 miles at 15.45 CET; only 6 runners, but a highly interesting event with the exciting Diamond Harry (Nick Williams/ Timmy Murphy) entered. He won both his bumpers here, with a year´s interval in between, then reappeared after another long breal to win both his hurdles starts very easily, but moves up in grade here. Paul Nicholls´ pair Massasoit (Tony McCoy) and Hells Bay (Sam Thomas) offer stern opposition, while Junior (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) came back to form last time and could well beat them all. The graduation chase at 14.35 shold go to Gone to Lunch (Jeremy Scott/ Tony McCoy), now finally justifying the earlier hype, although Mr.Pointment (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) has a higher rating and could be a major stumbling block. Nicky Hemnederson´s good run could contin e wth the unbeaten Dave´s Dream in the introductory hurdle at 15.10, while ex-German Amore Mio (Emma Lavelle/ Jack Doyle), who won 3 successive races in the summer, is just one of several interesting flat-raced newcomers in the 3yo hurdle at 14.00.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: I`M So Lucky - Crocodiles Rock - Planet Of Sound
2.Race: Nino Cochise - Moment Present - Higgy`S Boy
3.Race: Mr Pointment - Gone To Lunch - Money Trix
4.Race: Dave`S Dream - China Gold - Kingsdale Orion
5.Race: Diamond Harry - Massasoit - Junior
6.Race: Freeze The Flame - Opera De Coeur - Shouldhavehadthat
7.Race: Fabian The Fox - Silver Blondin - Aqualung

Ireland today

as is so often the case on a Sunday, the day´s best racing comes from Ireland and specifically from Leopardstown which stages two Grade One and one Grade Two race. Main event is the Lexus Chase over 3 miles at 15.35 CET, which has attracted a strong field, including 3 dangerous English raiders in Neptune Collonges (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup this year, Exotic Dancer (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy), Gold Cup runner-up last year, and CD specialist The Listener (Nick Mitchell/ Daryl Jacob). The Irish defense is headed by War of Attrition (Mouse Morris/ Paul Carberry -replacing Davy Russell, who has been stood down by the doctor because of dehydration), Gold Cup winner in 2006 and back to form this season, and the improving Glenfinn Captain (Tom Taaffe/ Barry Geraghty), winner of his last two races. The novice chase over the same distance at 14.30 should go to Trafford Lad (Dusty Sheehy/ Tom Doyle), who can complete a four-timer, while German-bred Ca tch Me (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) will be a short-priced favourite to win the Christmas Hurdle at 15.00. Although he concedes weight all round, he stands out on form and ratings despite the ground being possibly not as soft as he would prefer. Another German-bred Lazio (Steve Mahon/ Paddy Flood) can also get on the scoreboard by taking the handicap hurdle at 16.10, though this is very speculative. At Limerick, main event is the Grade Three novice hurdle at 14.45 over 2 3/4 miles. 6 of the 9 runners are last-time-out winners, with our preference being narrowly for Checkpoint Charlie (Charlie Swan/ DG Hogan) and Future All Star (Colm Murphy/ Matt O´Connor)

Betting forecast for Leopardstown:
1.Race: Kempes - Time Electric - Roberto Goldback
2.Race: Peak Raider - Ross Accord - Diophas
3.Race: Trafford Lad - Siegemaster - Footy Facts
4.Race: Catch Me - Whatuthink - Earth Magic
5.Race: Neptune Collonges - The Listener - War Of Attrition
6.Race: Carthalawn - Siege Of Ennis - Mullach Na Si
7.Race: Roches Point - The Biscuit Club - Deise Dan



Betting forecast for Limerick:
1.Race: Brosna Val - No One Tells Me - Gudnis Gracious Me
2.Race: The Midnight Club - Whinstone Boy - Lurgan
3.Race: Damien`s Oscar - Future All Star - Monty Blue
4.Race: Wicklow Lad - Colls Corner - Drive On Jim
5.Race: Stonehouse - Fortune Seeker - Polly Massini
6.Race: Topofdemornintou - The Dashing Doctor - Buckland Gold
7.Race: Abroad - Knight Realm - Some Song

Catterick, Lingfield and Leicester

after the top class racing of the past two days, today´s cards are much more humdrum, with Catterick and Leicester (both of whom have passed an early morning inspection) staging N.H. racing and flat racing from the all-weather track at Lingfield, where two class 2 handicaps are the main features. Both have small fields, but still look very open. 7 line up over 7 furlongs at 15.15 CET, and top-weight Bonus (Ger Butler/ Eddie Ahern) can get back on the winning trail here, at the main expense of Aeroplane (Simon Callaghan/ Hayley Turner) and Electric Warrior (Kark Burke/ Ross Atkinson), who is in good form, but moving up in grade. There are only 5 runners in the 6 furlongs handicap half an hour later. Matsunosuke (Barnie Coogan/ Tom Queally) was an easy winner at Great Leighs, but is held on earlier Southwell form by top-weight Turn on the Style (John Balding/ Paul Mulrennan), while CD specialist Maltese Falcon (Paul Cole/ Nelson de Souza) looks very dangerous. At Leicester, the class 3 handicap chas over 2 1/2 miles at 15.35 looks very tricky, with Emma Lavelle setting punters a poser by saddling both the top-weight Phar Again (Jack Doyle) and bottom-weight Fire and Rain (Paul Moloney), while Gary Moore´s Space Cowboy, ridden by son Jamie, fresh from his big win yesterday on Fiepe´s Shuffle, looks very well handicapped. yes Green (Oliver Sherwood/ Dominic Elsworth) can win the 3 miles novice chase at 16.05; he was the best of these over hurdles and won in good style at Hereford last time. At Catterick, the 2 miles novice chase at 15.25 looks the most interesting race. Herrnando´s Boy (Keith and James Reveley), King´s Quay (John Quinn/ Tom O´Brien) and ÜPalomar (Niclky Richards/ Davy Condon) all won well last time, but Howard Johnson, who saddles 4 winners yesterday, has an interesting runner here in Arcalis, a smart hurdler in younger days.It is not clear if stable jockey Denis O´Regan will be able to ride after his heavy fall yesterday.

Betting forecast for Catterick:
1.Race: You Never Said - Alberts Story - Stagecoach Pearl
2.Race: Mischief Man - Mister Fizzbomb - Ras Laffan
3.Race: Wizards Dust - Stoneriggs Merc - Loch Vic
4.Race: Blacks Bridge - Burnswood - Calcutta Cup
5.Race: Palomar - Hernando`S Boy - Kings Quay
6.Race: Eborarry - Sound Of Cheers - I`M Your Man
7.Race: Barrys Ark - Monsieur Georges - Classic Chic



Betting forecast for Lingfield:
1.Race: Rapid City - Resentful Angel - Strike Force
2.Race: Comrade Cotton - Northern Desert - Bridge Of Fermoy
3.Race: Fantasy Gladiator - Hillside Lad - Green Onions
4.Race: Singleb - Shaded Edge - River Kirov
5.Race: Electric Warrior - Aeroplane - Gallantry
6.Race: Matsunosuke - Turn On The Style - Epic Odyssey
7.Race: Sagunt - Irish Ballad - Rahy`S Crown
8.Race: Siena Star - Majehar - General Feeling



Betting forecast for Leicester:
1.Race: Toby Belch - Bensalem - Helpston
2.Race: Ours - Russian Flag - The Randy Bishop
3.Race: Roisin`S Prince - Devito - Spare Me
4.Race: Phar Again - Najca De Thaix - Space Cowboy
5.Race: Dream Garden - Silly Wupple - Lyes Green
6.Race: Zahra`S Place - Kadouchski - Red Admiral

Irish racing today

Two N.H. meetings in Ireland today, with the better racing again coming from Leopardstown, with two Grade One races. The chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 14.00 CET can go for the second year running to Mansony (Arthur Moore/ Davy Russell), although he was later behind Natal (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) on these terms. The novice hurdle at 14.55 sees some of the main Irish hopes for this season at the start, including Hurricane Fly (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend) and Noel Meade´s pair Donnas Palm (Paul Carberry) and Go Native (Niall Madden). The big betting race of the day, and also the most valuable event, is the 3 mile handicap chase at 16.10; with 28 runners, this is wide open and the bookies will probably go 10-1 the field, but Mullins and Townend have chances of doubling up here with Emma Jane. Best bet on the card is Eoin Griffin´s Sanglote, who contests the opening maiden hurdle at 13.40 under top flat jockey Seamus Heffernan.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Donegal - El Presidente - Flag Of Honour
2.Race: Realt Dubh - Indian Spring - Gentleman Jeff
3.Race: Mansony - Natal - Thyne Again
4.Race: Hurricane Fly - Donnas Palm - Go Native
5.Race: Dun Doire - Square Sphere - Rocco`S Hall
6.Race: Operation Houdini - Dante Hall - Patsy Hall
7.Race: Quel Esprit - West Of The Border - Chargen



The best race at Limerick is the 2 1/2 mile handicap chase at 15.50, whch also looks very tricky; top-weight Conna Castle (JJ Mangan/ Derek O´Connor), Gripit n Tipit (Charlie Swan/ DG Hogan) and Freds Benefit (Willie Mullins/ Joe Cullen) are the three on our short list.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Bannow Rose - Sanglote - Dul Ar An Ol
2.Race: Perce Rock - Faltering Fullback - Charlie Yardbird
3.Race: Hoochie Mama - Himalayan Trail - Harty`S Quay
4.Race: Lock Mor Lad - Keel Castle Maine - Soleil Levant
5.Race: Freds Benefit - Gripit N Tipit - Knocknagow Leader
6.Race: Raven`S Run - Clarnazar - Green Black
7.Race: Knockbrack Vic - Dolly Hall - Elaine`S Fancy

Christian von der Recke at Kempton

Today´s Kempton card is clearly weaker than yesterday but still offers some fascinating racing ,and from the German point of view, the main interest will be in the performance of three runners trained at Weilerswist by Christian von der Recke. Der Spieler (Andrew Tinkler) makes his hurdling debut in the 3yo hurdle at 14.05 CET but faces some strong opposiiton, notably the unbeaten Starluck (A. Fleming/ Timmy Murphy), an impressive winner last time out. Dave Crosse has been booked for Peredur, who runs in the Grade Two novice chase at 14.40; with only 6 runners, he could run into the money, but on form the first two places look booked for Oumeyade (Paul Nicholls/ Tony McCoy) and Deep Purple (Evan and Christian Williams). Easily the best of the von der Recke runners is Fiepe´s Shuffle who contests the Grade Two Desert Orchid Chase over 2 miles at 16.15. Fiepes Shuffle fell at the first on his latest trip to England, and is partnered again by Jamie Moore, who will be hoping to a void such a mishap today. With another front-runner in the field, Ashley Brook (Kevin Bishop/ Timmy Murohy), he is also unlikely to get an uncontested lead, but he could still go well, although the likely strong pace should play into the hands of another German-bred Twist Magic (Nicholls/ McCoy), who looked like giving the top-class Master Minded a race last time before falling two out. Petit Robin (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) is another possible in a race that should be fast and furious.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Starluck - Balzaccio - Classic Swain
2.Race: Oumeyade - Deep Purple - French Opera
3.Race: Laskari - Big Fella Thanks - Alright Now M`Lad
4.Race: Hora - Theatre Diva - Lamanver Homerun
5.Race: Petit Robin - Twist Magic - Takeroc
6.Race: Freeloader - Ingratitude - Pascha Bere

Welsh Grand National at Chepstow

Biggest race of the day is the Welsh Grand National at 15.05 CET at Chepstow, a handicap chase over 3 miles 5 1/2 furlongs which is always a very tough race and with 20 runners no exception today. Top-weight Halcon Genelardais (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson) won this in 2006 and was just touched off last year by Miko de Beauchene (Sue Alner/ Andrew Thornton); while he can defeat that rival on today´s terms, it seems unlikely that he can concede 20 lbs to his stable companion Nenuphar du Collonges, who is also the choice of the stable jockey Robert Thornton.

The much improved Gypsy George (Tom and Robert Walford) has won 4 of his last 5 races and is a danger to all, but our main fancy is recent Cheltenham winner Mon Mome (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), whose stable is in terrific form. Main supporting feature is the Grade One hurdle for 3yo´s with some very promising types engaged, notably Pepite de Soleil (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) and Walkon (King/ "Choc"). The maiden hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 16.20 also looks interesting. German-bred Peppertree Lane (Peter Bowen/ Seamus Durack) has not convinced with his hurdling technique so far, but he was easily the best of these on the flat and, if he gets his act together, should go well.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Nakai - Hills Of Aran - Pancake
2.Race: Presenting Copper - Herecomesthetruth - Rustarix
3.Race: Oberon Moon - The Wooden Spoon - Maktu
4.Race: Nenuphar Collonges - Mon Mome - Halcon Genelardais
5.Race: Simarian - Pepite de Soleil - Walkon
6.Race: Bai Zhu - Michel Le Bon - King Fontaine
7.Race: Pennellis - Hong Kong Harry - Peveril

Wetherby, Wincanton and other meetings

Outside Kempton, the best British racing today is to be found at Wetherby, Wincanton and Market Rasen. At Wincanton, the class 2 handicap hurdle over 2 34 miles at 14.15 CET is a hot race, with local trainer Paul Nicholls saddling two runners with chances, top weight Elusive Dream (Lam Heard) and Pride of Dulcote (Nick Scholfield), but the lightly weighted Galient (Nicky Henderson Marcus Foley) and Lupanar (Gary and Jamie Moore) look very dangerous. Best race at Wetherby is the Rowland Meyrick Chase, a valuable handicap over 3 miles 1 furlong at 14.45. Top weight Tidal Bay (Howad Johnson Denis O Regan) is the class act here, but over this trip he can be opposed by State of Play (Rvan Williams Paul Moloney) and Ollie Marn (Nigel Twiston Davies David England), first and second in a similar race her 8 weeks ago, and especially by Cloudy Lane (Donald McCain JasonMaguire), one of our long range fancies for the Grand National. This race is certain to have more bearing on that race than the so called Lincolnshire National over 3 12miles at 15.25 at Market Rasen. This is verty mucvh a race for specialsts, in which case Victory Gunner, whoi has won the event for the past 3 years, should score again, but on recent form Jim Bobs Girl (Tim Vaugn/ Charlie Poste) andKillard Point (Caroline Bailey Andrew Thornton) can be preferred in a very open race.

Irish racing today

There are 3 Irish meetings today, at Leopardstown, Limerick and Down Royal in N. Ireland, but the best racing comes from Leopardstown, where there are two Grade One races. The juvenile hurdle at 14.30 CET should concern only Lethal Weapon (Christy Roche Alan Crowe) and Tharawaat (Gordon Elliott Davy Russell), but the novice chase at 15,25 looks much more open, although British raider Tatenen (Paul Nicholls Sam Thomas) seems certain to start a short priced favourite. A feature of the card is that flat jockey Richard Hughes has several rides for his father Dessie, the best of which could be German bred Noble Prize in the handicap hurdle at 14.50, The huge field also includes another ex/German son of Acatenango in Dalian, who however has been off the track for almost 2 years. Main event at Limerick is the Grade Two novice chase at 15.15, where 6 of the 10 runners are last time out winners. An interesting runner on the umndercard here is ex/German Le Marquis (Tony Martin Robbie Colgan), who fell last time out, but could run well at a big price in the beginners chase at 16.20 as long as he stays on his feet.

Rest of Kempton

The remaining races at Kempton are also extremely interesting, with pride of place going to the Grade One Christmas Hurdle at 15.05 CET. Nicky Henderson has the best line on the top hurdlers and saddles two here, with stable jockey Barry Geraghty partnering Punjabi and "Choc" Thornton on Afsoun. Paul Nicholls and Ruby Walsh oppose wth Pierrot Lunaire, who fell last time out, but is still very highly regarded, while Straw Bear (Nick Gifford/ Tony McCoy) won this race a year ago (but against weaker opposition). However our preference is for another previous winner, the Irish-trained Harchibald (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry), who can be brilliant on his day and appears to have everything in his favour now. The Nicholls/ Henderson duel extends throughout the day, and in the opening novice hurdle at 13.55 their runners Font (Walsh) and German-bred Fairyland (Geraghty) can dominate, as can Breedsbreeze (Walsh) and The Market Man (Geraghty) in the Grade One novice chase over 3 miles a t 14.30; however do not overlook French challenger Millenium Royal (Christophe Pieux) here, as his trainer Francois Doiumen has a great record at this meeting.

King George hat-trick for Kauto Star?

All eyes will be on Kauto Star (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) at 15.40 CET this afternoon as he attempts to win the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park for the third time. This is the second most important chase of the British year, only the Cheltenham Gold Cup enjoys greater prestige and there are plenty of people who prefer the Kempton race, which is run on a more straightforwatd track. There are also plenty of people prepared to knock Kauto Star following a coiuple of below-par performances, but stable confidence is high and if he is anywhere near the form he showed here last year, then he has to win. Main dangers could be Vor Por Ustedes (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) and Our Vic (David Pipe/ Timmy Murphy), who however may be better at shorter distances. This race is also the moment of truth for German-bred Air Force One, but the son of Lando could well play a major role here, as conditions should be ideal for him. However he is without his regular pilot Noel Fehily, injured in a fall on Tuesday, and trainer Charlie Mann has booked Barry Geraghty, certainly a more than adequate deputy. Mann has done really well with his German imports and also has a good chance with Laredo Sound in the following novices handicap chase at 16.15.

No British or Irish racing

There is no British or Irish racing on Wednesday (Christmas Eve) and Thursday (Christmas Day). There is however a big card at Deauville on Christmas Eve, with maximum fields in all 8 races, including some German runners. We shall be back here on Friday to preview the huge Boxing Day programme.

Fontwell and Southwell

Only two meetings today, over jumps at Fontwell and on the all-weather at Southwell, before the racing industry enjoys a welcome Christmas break. Not however betting shop employees, as apparently most British bookies are to be open on Christmas Eve. Easily the most interesting racing comnes from Fontwell, where almost allthe top jockeys are in actipon. Paul Nicholls and Ruby Walsh are hardly regular visitors to te south cpoast track, but could well land a double with Our Bomber Harris in division two of the novice hurdle over 2 1/4 miles at 14.15 CET, a useful bumper who is well-bred for jumping and making his debut over sticks, and top-weight Oracls des Mottes in the 2 1/2 mile handicap chase at 16.15; German-bred Pretty Star (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) could be an interesting each-way alternative here, with ther stable now in good form. Two more German-breds, Tora Bora (Brendan Powell/ Wilson Renwick) and Wildbach (Sheena West/ Jamie Goldstein) cpntes te day´s best ra ce, a class 2 hurdles handicap over 3 miles 3 furlongs at 15.45. This looks a really tough race, with Little Shilling (Tim Vaughan/ Richard Killoran), who has won his last 5 races, now facing much stronger opposition, and slight preference is for local hope Honour High (Lady Herries/ Andrew Thornton). Another local trainer who can strike here is Gary Moore, who can take the beginners chase at 15.15 with Or Jaune with son Jamie in the saddle. The card at Southwell is very modest. The best race is the class 4 handicap at 15.30 over 1 mile 3 furlongs, but with only 6 mainly out of form runners, this is a weak contest. Opera Writer (Reg Hollinshead/ Andrea Atjeni) is one of the few with a positive profile and could win this with the autumn´s hottest apprentice aboard. Top-weight Coda Agency (David Arbuthnot/ Martin Dwyer), in good form recently both on the flat and over jumps, can defy top-weight to win the 1 3/4 mile handicap at 14.30.

Big fields at Cagnes today

After two fixtures at Cagnes-sur-mer´s winter jumps meeting had to be abandoned last week becuase of the bad weather, there are not suprisingly big fields for all 8 races there today. Although there are no German-trained horses running, there are several runners with German connections, including Stall Australia´s (Stephan Hoffmeister´s) Neander (Yannick Fertillet/ Xavier Hondier) in the main event, a listed chase over 4300 metres at 15.20. Fly my Dream (Romain Bonnet), ex-Mario Hofer and now trained by JP Gallorini, runs in the hurdle race for 3yo fillies at 14.50, and Altamirano (Alexis Marcurol), ex- Werner Baltromei and a winner here last week, runs in the handicap hurdle at 16.20 for trainer P.Lenogue.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Ptitic - Fantastic Sacha - Mon Compere
2.Race: Com Kevi - Ristabad - Romance Turgot
3.Race: Quartel - Bel Empereur - Elixir du Berlais
4.Race: Azdine - Vieux Villez - Exarque
5.Race: Dans Tes Reves - She Hates Me - Rio Princess
6.Race: Esplendido - Quelle Melody - Cadouraki
7.Race: In The Desert - Borrachito - Harmonic Treasure
8.Race: Altamirano - Pyla - Wisning du Frene

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

Two all-weather flat meetings today, but neither at Kempton or Lingfield can any fireworks be expected. "Best" race of the day is the class 4 handicap over 2 miles at 16.00 CET at Lingfield. All 8 runners bring decent all-weather form into the race, whch is possibly best left to the two lightly-weighted and very consistent 3yo´s Azabu Juban (John Jay/ William Carson) and Epsom Salts (PM Phelan/ Paul Hanagan). German-bred Napoletano (Simon Dow/ Neil Callan) usually runs here and showed a return to form when runner-up last time; he can go one better in the mile handicap at 16.30.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Victory Spirit - Grizedale - Nikki Bea
2.Race: Very Well Red - Thabaat - Upstairs
3.Race: Our Day Will Come - Darwin`S Dragon - La Verte Rue
4.Race: Fyodor - Desert Dreamer - Mutamared
5.Race: Theatre Street - Today`S The Day - Comadoir
6.Race: Epsom Salts - Azabu Juban - Prince Zafonic
7.Race: Napoletano - Onenightinlisbon - Young Bertie



At Kempton, there are some very open handicaps. Littledodayno (Michael Wigham/ Franny Norton) and CD winner Musical Script (Mouse Hamilton-Fairley/ Liam Keniry) look a likely pair in the 6 furlongs race at 17.20, while another CD specialist with good prospects is Bluebell Ridge (Davd Arbuthnot/ Martin Dwyer) in the 3yo event over 1 1/2 miles at 16.50; he has last-time-out winner Berry Bary (Ger Butler/ Hayley Turner) to beat.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Supercast - Dream Of Fortune - Silver Hotspur
2.Race: Dark Camellia - The Staffy - Yakama
3.Race: Trigger Mccann - Common Diva - Precocious Air
4.Race: Bluebell Ridge - Berry Baby - Mission Control
5.Race: Littledodayno - Efisio Princess - Shakespeare`S Son
6.Race: Copper King - Billy Hot Rocks - Charming Escort
7.Race: Blue Charm - Ugenius - Alqaahir

Hereford today

There are large fields at today´s N.H. meeting at Hereford, but with the big Boxing Day fixtures later in the week, the quality is obviously low. National Petition (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) appeals as the best bet of the day; after an easy win last week at Folkestone, he should be able to follow up on the handicap chase over 3 1/4 miles at 14.10 CET. It is unusual for 3yo´s to beat older horses in handicap hurdles, but this could be the case at 14.40, when Tifoso (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) attempts to complete a hat-trick on his first start in Britain; Night Cru (Jonjo O`Neill/ Tony McCoy) looks the main danger. Jonjo and AP have another interesting runner in German-bred Falsino, who makes his hurdling debut an hour later; the one to beat here is clearly Black Jacari (King/ "Choc"), runner-up on his all his three hurdles starts. Another German-bred who can make his presence felt is Moon Star, who carries top weight in the 2 1/2 miles handicap hurdle at 15.10; Paul N icholls´ consistent Kerrys Girl (Harry Skelton) is one of the main dangers here.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Lady Malousa - Rash Moment - Scalini`S
2.Race: National Petition - Will The Till - Potts Of Magic
3.Race: Tifoso - Jardin De Vienne - Night Cru
4.Race: Six Day War - Kerry`S Girl - Delayed Approach
5.Race: Black Jacari - Sydney Sling - Stow
6.Race: Fassaroe - Zarrafakt - Charlotte Street
7.Race: Burton Port - Nono Le Sage - Pinerock

Carlisle, Great Leighs and Thurles

the Sunday before Christmas was originally intended to be a free day, but there are now three low-level meetings to keep the betting turnover flowing, over jumps at Carlisle and Thurles in Ireland and on the flat at Great Leighs. At Carlisle, the track has survived an early-morning inspection, but the going will be very testing. The most inteesting race is the opening novice case at 13.50 CET, with several potentially useful novices in opposition. Last-time-out winners Role On (Nicky Richards/ Rose Dobbin) and Skippers Brig (Len Lungo/ Wilson Renwick) make obvious appeal, but are not certain to be able to give the weight to Coe (Graham Lee) and Ragador (Shane Byrne), two of Sue Smith´s three runners, while Netherly (Donald McCain/ Brian Harding) is coming off a 20 months break but would be a huge danger on his old form. The 3 1/4 miles of the handicap case at 14.55 will take some getting, but Royal Mackintosh (Alan Mactaggart/ Brian Harding) could be the answer, while Rosie a ll Over (DOnald McCain/ Graham Lee) can complete a hat-trick in the mares handicap chase at 15.25. At Thurles there are maximum fields in most races, the exception being the listed hurdle race at 14.05, which has a disappointing turnout with only 4 runners. In theory this should be between last-time-out winners Solwhit (Charlie Byrnes/ Davy Russell) and Ninetieth Minute (Tom Taaffe/ Paddy Flood). Assuming that yesterday´s winner Newbay Prop does not turn out again, then the handicap hurdle at 16.00 looks very open, but the relatively unexposed Don´t Rush It (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) and Saoirse´s Chrstnut (Charlie Byrnes/ Emmett Mullins) could be involved. Main event at Great Leighs is the class 2 mile handicap at 126.50. Flipando (David Barron/ Jamie Spencer) is long overdue a win and ran well from an outside draw at Lingfield recently; he needs everything to fall int place, but today could be the day, while Red Somerset (Ron Hodges/ Marc Geran) and Mister New York (Noel Chance/ Jim Crowley) look the best alternatives. Matsunosuke (Barnie Coogan/ Tom Queally) is another one who finds it hard to win at present, but he can finally get his head in front in the 6 furlongs handicap at 17.20

Long Walk Hurdle with Atamane

the Long Walk Hurdle is in theory the main feature of Ascot´s glittering card today and the Grade one event over 3 miles 1 furlong at 15.10 CET has attracted most of the U.K.´s top staying hurdlers. It has also attracted a rare German runner, Mario Hofer´s Atamanane, who has two excellent runs at Auteuil to his credit. However this opposition looks even stronger than in Paris, and the drying ground is not in his favour. Jamie Moore (who fell off Fiepe´s Shuffle the last time he rode a German horse in a big British race) has been booked and we must hope for better luck, but realistically, Atamane faces a very stiff task. Nicky Henderson has a strong hand here with Duc de Regnieres (Tony McCoy), who defeated several of these 3 weeks ago at Newbury, and impressive Cheltenham winner Punchestowns (Barry Geraghty), while 2007 winner Lough Derg (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) and Pettitfour (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan), now much better off at the weights, are others to consider .

Betting forecast:
1.Race: My Petra - Gwanako - Pur De Sivola
2.Race: Trabolgan - Oedipe - Eric`S Charm
3.Race: Binocular - Crack Away Jack - Katchit
4.Race: Punchestowns - Duc De Regniere - Blazing Bailey
5.Race: Aigle D`Or - Numide - Ashkazar
6.Race: Edgbriar - Barnhill Brownie - I`M The Decider
7.Race: Red Harbour - Larks Lad - Pearlysteps

rest of Ascot

The other 6 races today at Ascot are also extremely high-class and it could well be another red-letter for in-form trainer Nicky Henderson, who has fancied runners (often several of them) in every race. He saddles 2 of the 5 runners in the Grade Two Boylesports International over hurdles at 14.40, a race carried over from last weekend´s abandoned Cheltenham meeting. Although the field has cut up, it is still a fascinating contest. Hemderson´s runners Binocular (Tony McCoy), currently favourite for the Champion Hurdle, anthe mare Chomba Womba (Barry Geraghty) are obvious candidates, while current Champion Hurdler Katchit (Alan King( Robert Thornton) has been slightly below form this season. Celestial Halo (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), winner of the Triumph, and the much-improved Crack Away Jack (Emma Lavelle/ Jack Doyle) are by no means out of it. Henderson also saddles two runners in the handicap chase at 14.05, with much interest centred on Trabolgan (Barry Geraghty), who has not run since winning the Hennessy in 2005, but possibly may find stable-companion Oedipe (Tony McCoy) sharper this time. Top-weights Gungadu (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) and Monkerhostin (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) are always to be feared at this level. The valuable Ladbroke handicap hurdle over 2 miles at 15.45 is te big betting race of thr day, and Henderson again has a strong hand with Aigle d´Or (McCoy) and Sentry Duty (Geraghty), while there has been a huge market move for Belcantista (Philip Hobbs/ Tom O´Brien), running in the same JP McManus colours as Aigle dÓr. Top-weight Ashkazar (David Pipe/ Timmy Murphy) is another potential Champion Hurdle candidate and the stable has won this race repeatedly, while Group Captain (Hugh Collingridge/ Richard Killoran) appeals as the best outsider.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: My Petra - Gwanako - Pur De Sivola
2.Race: Trabolgan - Oedipe - Eric`S Charm
3.Race: Binocular - Crack Away Jack - Katchit
4.Race: Punchestowns - Duc De Regniere - Blazing Bailey
5.Race: Aigle D`Or - Numide - Ashkazar
6.Race: Edgbriar - Barnhill Brownie - I`M The Decider
7.Race: Red Harbour - Larks Lad - Pearlysteps

Haydock, Navan and Newcastle

there is N.H. racing today at Haydock, Navan and Newcastle, and although the quality s well below that to be seen ascot, there are interesting and competitive racing at all three tracks. Best horse on view at Haydock is Kalahari King (Ferdy Murphy /Graham Lee) who should win the novice chase pver 2 miles at 15.00 if he is to justify his position as second favoiurite for the "Arkle"; however Doctor David (Caroline Bailey/ Andrew Thornton) and Stzumped (Henry Daly/ Mark Bradbourne), both in receipt of weight, could be dangerous. German-bred United (Lucy Wadham/ Jimmy McCarthy) is an interesting entry in the handicap hurdle at 15.35, but she has been off the track for almost 2 years and may need the race; Keoth Reveley´s paid top-wewight Tazbar (Graham Lee) and Accordello (James Reveley) could get involved here. At Newcastle, the novice chase over 3 miles at 15.20 should go toAccpording to Pete (Malcolm Jefferson/ Dougie Costello), who is unbeaten in 3 starts this seaspon and lo oks a smart prospect; Sue Smith´s Mill Side (Shane Byrne) is the one to beat. German-bred First Look (Peter Monteith/ Ryan Mania) won well last time out, but the handicap chase at 16.25 looks very open; at his best Akilak (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan) could take this, but bottom-weight Just for Men (Mike Todhunter/ Brian Hughes) looks a danger to all. At Navan in Ireland the going will be very testing. Newbay Prop (Tony Martin/ Paul Carberry) can exploit his lenient handicap rating over hurdles at 15.00, although he is undeniably better over fences, and Martin also saddles ex-German Le Marquis (David Casey) in the beginners chase half an hour later. However Golden Silver (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend) looks the likeliest winner here.

all-weather action at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

Easily the best race on the all-weather today is the listed event over 10 furlongs at 15.05 CET at Lingfield. Several familiar faces here, including Grand Passion, who ran so many good races over this CD for the now-retired Geoff Wragg and is now trained by Chris Wall; his recent form is not encouraging, but perhaps a change of scenery has revitalised him. On current form Dansant (Ger Butler/ Eddie Ahern) and Re Barolo (Marcoi Botti/ John Egan) can be preferred, while front-runner Suits Me (Tom Tate / Micky Fenton) is moving up in grade but still not out of it after winning his last 4 races. Best bet at Lingfield should be the Queen´s Banknote (Andrew Balding/ Frannie Norton), winner of the Badener Meile in 2007, who should be able to get the better of Orchard Supreme (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) at these weights in the mile race at 14.35. At Wolverhampton the trickiest race is the class 4 handicap over 1 3/4 miles at 20.50. 4 of ghe 8 runnes are last-time-out winners an d the others all plkaced, while 5 of them are trained in Ireland.Possibly top-weight Lochiel (Alan Swinbank/ Paul Mulrennan) could be the answer and the final 8 1/2 furlongs handicap at 22.20 can also go to the top-weight, in this case Spinning (David Barron/ George Baker).

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Art Fund - Our Wee Girl - Come On Buckers
2.Race: Sonning Gate - Sign Of Approval - Sunniva Duke
3.Race: Banknote - Orchard Supreme - Abbondanza
4.Race: Dansant - Suits Me - Re Barolo
5.Race: Risque Heights - Saucy - Lord Theo
6.Race: Bookiesindex Boy - Bluebok - Thoughtsofstardom

all-weather action at Southwell and Wolverhampton.

Today´s all-weather flat racing comes from Southwell in the afternoon and Wolverhampton in the evening, but neither meeting offers any real highlights. The best race at Soiuthwell is the class 4 handicap over 6 furlongs at 15.45 CET. This looks wide open and all 10 runnersa are in with a chance, from top-weight Charles Parnell (Michael Dods/ Dale Gibson) to bottom weight Kensington (David Evans/ Patrick Donaghy), with Steel City Boy (Derek Shaw/ Jim Crowley) an obvious alternative. Best bet at Southwell should be Came Back (Jonathan Gask/ Darryll Holland) in the 6 furlongs seller at 14.00. He is having his first race for new connections, but stands out here on ratings. At Wolverthampton the class 3 handicap over 7 furlong which closes proceedings at 22.20 is the best race, and again any of the 10 runners could win. Aeroplane (Simon Callaghan/ Jamie Spencer) has been running in better company and deserves a win, but the improving 3yo Mister New York (Noel Chance/ Jim Crowley) and bottom-weight Perfect Act (Clive Cox/ Hayley Turner) are two live dangers. There ar quite a few Irish-trained runners entered here, most interesting of which could be the German-bred Sly Tiger (Mike Halford/ GF Carroll) in the opening apprentices handicap at 19.50.

Two Grade Two races at Ascot

Ascot´s card tomorrow is first-rate but today there is also high-class racing at the Berkshire track, with two Grade Two races taking pride of place. The novice hurdle over 2 miles at 14.55 has attracted a really strong field and we are looking at Cheltenham contenders here. Golan Way (Sheena West/ Jamie Goldstein) has been the big surprise of the season so far, winning all 4 of his starts and defeating some highly-rated opponents. However as a dour front-runner he could be vulnerable to a strong finisher, such as Dee Ee Williams (Nick Gifford/ Liam Treadwell) , who showed excellent speed to win here last time. However German-bred Bergo, runner-up that day. meets him on better terms and could well reverse the form, while another German-bred Wendel (Charlie Mann/ Noel Fehily) is moving up in class after 2 easy wins. Paul Nicholls´ unbeaten Shamari (Ruby Walsh) is another to be considered in a tough race. There are only 5 runners in the novice chase over 2 miles 3 furlongs at 1 5.30, but again some strong competition, and Buck the Legend (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) ad Panjo Bere (Gary and Jamie Moore) are both on a hat-trick, while Deep Purple (Evan Williams/ Paul Moloney) and Naiad de Misselot (Ferdy Murpohy/ Graham Lee) will also have plenty of supporters. The card closes with 2 very competitive handicaps, and with Nicky Henderson and Barry Geraghty in such good form, they could well take them both with Boomshakalaka at 16.05 and Busker Royale at 16.40. Today´N.H. mererting at Uttoxeter has been abandfoned because of waterlogging, but there is also jumps racing from Downpatrick in N. Ireland, with maximum fields of 15 in all races, but clearly of a standard well below that at Ascot. Willie Mullins should take the beginners chase over 2 miles 7 furlongs at 14.55, as he saddles two runners, Derrymore Dawn (Emmett Mullins) and Cru (Paul Townend), who could well full the first two places.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Fistral Beach - Run For Moor - Midnight Sail
2.Race: High Jack - Fit To Drive - Baseball Ted
3.Race: Dee Ee Williams - Golan Way - Door Boy
4.Race: Buck The Legend - Deep Purple - Naiad Du Misselot
5.Race: Something Wells - Cedrus Libani - Boomshakalaka
6.Race: Busker Royal - Nikos Extra - Sarde

Huge fields at Deauville

There are some huge fields today at Deauville, where another double-decker card is staged, with 4 races in the morning (first race at 11.20) and 8 in the afternoon session (first race 13.30), all on fibregrass and almost all with a maximum field. Although there were several entries from German trainers, all except one have been eliminated, so that Werner Baötromei´s Delano (Gaetan Masure) is now the only German runner. He has a chance in the 2400 metres handicap at 16.05, but these races are never easy and it is not certain that he will be suited by the track.

Betting forecast (Morning):
1.Race: Cocody - Eastern Promise - Roman Eagle
2.Race: Karmi - Isaonor - Yellow Fairy
3.Race: Last Cast - Betilla - Without Precedent
4.Race: Saugere - Azhar Eria - Fuente Apache

Betting forecast: (Afternoon)
1.Race: Wangokaye - Lutece Eria - Pink Candie
2.Race: Delta Victoria - Sigvati - Altahire
3.Race: Icy Road - Cossita - Magic Sport
4.Race: Kachgai - Top Wave - Unirossa
5.Race: The Snowman - Bodegon - Chelsea Hotel
6.Race: Karuda - Delano - Ti Salsa
7.Race: Babouche - Il Trovatore - Aubrac
8.Race: Scarine - Dance Petit - Rocamar

Christian von der Recke at Ludlow

Ludlow also offers some decent N.H, racing today, and from the German point of view the main interest will lie in the performance of the two runners trained at Weilerswist by Christian von der Recke. In the novices handicap chase over 2 1/2 miles at 14.10 CET he saddles the consistent Forfeiter, to be ridden by Tom Scudamore. Clearly it is difficult to compare the British and German form, but Forfeiter should have an each way chance. Paquet Cadeau (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who has won his last two, is obviously the one to beat. Von der Recke also runs Handy Ben, a winner at Hanover 6 weeks ago, in the handicap for lady riders an hour later, with the talented Irish amateur Nadine Forde, recently crowned Fegentri champion and a winner several times in Germany in the summer for the trainer. Again it is hard to make any predictions, but the trainer feels the large field could be a problem, also the shorter distance (2 miles). Best bet of the day could be David Pipe´s Prince of Persia (Tom Scudamore), who can follow up an easy win at Huntingdon last week in the valuable 3 miles handicap chase at 15.40.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Elbistan - Dontpaytheferryman - Waarid
2.Race: Paquet Cadeau - Forfeiter - Sebastiano
3.Race: Oiseau De Nuit - Pret A Thou - Norborne Bandit
4.Race: Beverly Hill Billy - Forty Five - Handy Ben
5.Race: College Ace - Prince Of Persia - Cresswell Willow
6.Race: Carole`S Legacy - Smuglin - Dancingwithbubbles
7.Race: Kerada - Cross Kennon - Megabill

N.H. racing at Exeter

Exeter offers an above-average card today for a December Thursday, with the class 2 graduation chase at 14.50 CET the main event. The field of 6 is headed by Denman´s brother Silverburn (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), a beaten favourite in a hot Cheltenham handicap last time, and he can recover losses at the main expense of Private Be (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson). There are also 6 runners in the class 3 handicap chase over 3 miles half an hour later, which should mainly concern Golden Child(Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) and Pass me a Dime (Colin and Joe Tizzard). David Arbuthnot has the string he trains for George Ward in good form, and might land a double with Dominican Monk (Andrew Thornton) in the handicap hurdle at 14.20 and Theatre Dance (Paul Moloney)in the beginners chase at 15.50.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Silver Spinner - Aussie Deal - Cherry Flora
2.Race: King Caine - Widely Accepted - William Bonney
3.Race: Silverburn - Private Be - Nacarat
4.Race: Stolen Moments - Pass Me A Dime - Golden Child
5.Race: Kornati Kid - Quickbeam - Theatre Dance
6.Race: Katess - Lamanver Homerun - Pyleigh Lady
7.Race: Burgess Hill - Nemetan - Bollitree Bob

All-weather action today

There is flat racing this afternoon at Southwell and this evening at Great Leighs, with some small fields at both venues. The best racing is at Great Leighs, but only 4 turn out for the 2yo novice race over 6 furlongs at 20.20 CET, which should go to Noverre to Go, who has finally got his act together and can be the first leg of a double for trainer Tom Dascombe and jockey Richard Kingscote, whose The Game has an obvious chance in the evening´s top event, a class 2 handicap over 5 furlongs at 21.20. There are 7 runners here, with top-weight Fyodor (Charles Dore/ Dane O´Neill) a big danger. Kingscote and O´Neill could also fight out the finish of the 1 mile 5 furlongs handicap half an hour later, when they partner the two likely favourites, Slip and Grande Caiman respectively.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Anfield Road - Sensible - Bring It On Home
2.Race: Noverre To Go - Moscow Eight - Newlyn Art
3.Race: Weybridge Light - Graylyn Ruby - Faith And Reason
4.Race: The Game - Doubtful Sound - Matsunosuke
5.Race: Grande Caiman - Slip - Celtic Spirit
6.Race: State General - Hold The Bucks - Night Lily



At Southwell, Moyazada (Mel Brittain/ Franny Norton) should complete a four-timer in the mile handicap at 16.00 after a very asy win over this CD last Friday. There are 6 runners in the 1 1/2 miles handicap at 15.00, including Prairie Hawk (Tim Vaughan/ Chris Catlin), who landed a huge gamble here on Monday, but Orkney (Julie Camacho/ Paulo Mulrennan) and Karmest (AD Brown/ Graham Gibbons) are also recent CD winners and it may not be so easy this time.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Bold Rose - Imaginary Diva - Chimbonda
2.Race: Blaise Tower - Markadam - Royal Keva
3.Race: Sarando - Son Of My Heart - Celtic Gold
4.Race: Prairie Hawk - Karmest - Orkney
5.Race: Barkass - Elusive Warrior - Boundless Prospect
6.Race: Mozayada - Sofia`S Star - Augustus John
7.Race: This Ones For Eddy - Rosie Says No - Lujano

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

There is all-weather flat racing this afternoon at Lingfield and this evening at Kempton, and easily the best race of the day is the listed event over 7 furlongs at 21.20 CET at the latter track. This has attracted a strong field, including the Irish.-trained Duff (Edward Lynam/ Kevin Manning), who won a similar race last time at Lingfield in good style ahead of several of today´s opponents. Another Irish runner is Finicius (Eoin Griffin/ Fran Berry), who has won his last 3 races, all at Dundalk, but meets better opposition now. Last-time-out winners Mac Love (Stef Liddiard/ Micky Fenton) and Atlantic Story (Mick Easterby/ Hayley Turner) are also to be considered in what is a good race for the time of year. The 1 1/2 mile handicap here at 21.50 can go to Wine ´n´Dine (Gary Moore/ Eddie Ahern), who can reverse recent form with Cape Colony (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes). Ex-Schlenderhan runner Sommersturm (Andrew Stringer/ Tom Queally) is also engaged here, but the stable for m is not encouraging.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Mellow Mixture - Petrovsky - The Age Of Anxiety
2.Race: Lexlenos - Bartica - My Best Bet
3.Race: Sestet - Russian Angel - Eseej
4.Race: Old Romney - Sir Liam - Good Effect
5.Race: Atlantic Story - Duff - Ceremonial Jade
6.Race: Wine `N Dine - Cape Colony - Choir Singer
7.Race: Donard Lodge - Whiskey Creek - Marvin Gardens



At Lingfield, the two best races come at the end of the afternoon. The 1 1/2 mile handicap at 15.45 looks very open. Bottom weight Epsom Salts (PMPhelan/ James Doyle) has been first or second on his last 5 starts and should start favourite, although he is badly drawn. Last-time-out winners Wind Flow (Chris Dyson/ Cathy Gannon) and Garrulous (Gary Moore/ George Baker) are obvious dangers. Moore and Baker also have chances in the following 10 furlongs handicap with the improving Action Impact, but Luca Cumani´s lightly-raced Bullet Man (Dane O´neill) and Michael Jarvis´ hat-trick-seeking Vine Street (Neil Callan) will not make it easy for hm.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Shaded Edge - Tamino - Sarah`S Art
2.Race: Sabre Light - Zero Cool - Nawamees
3.Race: Kamanja - Luckier - Princess Cagliari
4.Race: Pezula Bay - Head Down - Rebel City
5.Race: Fantasy Fighter - Bollin Franny - Charmel`s Lad
6.Race: Epsom Salts - Valdan - Garrulous
7.Race: Action Impact - Vine Street - Bullet Man

Bangor and Newbury

N.H. racing this afternoon at Newbury and Bangor, and possibly the most interesting race of the day is the first at 13.20 CET at Newbury, a hurdle race for 3yo´s with 13 runners including some highly-rated newcomers. The best f them could be Paul Nicholls´ Hebridean (Ruby Walsh, riding for the first time in the U.K. since his bad fall at Cheltenham last month), who was a pattern race winner on the flat for Aidan O´Brien. However Nicky hemndersn has a fine record in this race and saddles another highly interesting debutant in Zaynar (Barry Geraghty). Those who prefer to go for proven hurdles form should consider Walkon (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), the obly winner in the field, as well as Sainglend (Sean Curran/ Timmy Murphy) and Kahsabelle (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas), runners-up on all their starts over the sticks. This race could well have a strong influence on the betting for the Triumph Hurdle. The Nicholls/Walsh and Henderson/ Geraghty teams are also well represented i n the maiden hurdle at 14.25 with Qozak and Schiehallion respectively, both of whom areexpeced to go on to better things. Aming their 2 opponents is the ex-German Sam Whiskey (Jonjo O´Neill( RP McLernon), making his British debut. Despite the strong fields, prize-money at the meeting is extremely poor, with the two races referred to only worth 3250 GBP (about 3600 euro) to the winner, which is pitiful for this track. Prize-money is actually better at Bangr, which possibly explains for the fact that some of the top jockeys are riding there, e.g.Tony McCoy and Richard Johnson. The latter can take the novice hurdle at 14.45 with Hanry Daly´s promising My Moment, whie McCoy´best chance is probably the unreliable Money Line in the 3 3/4 mile handicap chase at 14.10, the most valuable race of the afternoon. However honours here can go to Charlie Mann and Dave Crosse, who can combine to win the first two races with Blazing Diva at 13.10 and German-bred Figurita at 13.40.

Catterick, Folkestone and Southwell

Typical Tuesday racing on a dreary December day, with N.H. cards at Catterick and Folkestone and all-weather racing from Southwell, where the best event is the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.40 CET. Most of the 9 runners are CD specialists, including Canadian Danehill (Robert Cowell/ Eddie Ahern), who came back to form with an easy win last time and is the probable favourite. Oldtimer The Tatling (Milton Bradly/ Jack Dean) is no longer so consistent these days, but certainly capable of winning off this mark, while Ann Stokell´s track specialist Pawan can never be left out of calculations here. The 2 mile handicap half an hour earlier can probably be left to the consistent Azabu Juba (John Jay/ William Carson) and Victory Quest (Sue Lamyman/ Robert Winston). There are large fields at Catterick, with 16 contesting the novice hurdle over 2 miles3 furlongs at 14.30. It looks at the mercy of Peppertree Lane (Peter Bowen/ Seamus Durack); this German-bred was a group race performer on th e flat for Mark Johnston and made a decent hurdling debut in a much better race at Newbury recently; in theory, he only needs to jump round to win against this opposition. The handicap chase over 3 miles 1 furlong half an hour later looks much trickier. Ferdy Murphy saddles two here and stable jockey Graham Lee partners Trisons Star, although on form his other runner Top Cloud (Keith Mercer) looks stronger. Murphy and Lee also team up with Bewery Man in the handicap hurdle over the same trip at 15.30, and this one looks to have only Festival King (Paula Robson/ Timmy Murphy) - also an easy winner last week- to beat. At Folkestone, winners look easier to find and Latanier (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) and Nur Tau (Nick Gifford/ Liam Treadwell) in the 2 divisions of the novice hurdle that open the card, as well as It´s a Dream (Nicky Henderson/ Tony McCoy) in the beginners chase at 14.20 can get favourite backers off to a good start. The maiden hurdle over 2 3/4 miles at 16.2 0 looks quite interesting. Any Currency (Martin Keighley/ Warren Marston) has been runner-up three times running, but may have to settle for a minor placing again as hurdling debutant Voice of Reason (Carl Llewellyn/ Tom O´Brien) -unbeaten in bumpers - and Hello Moscow (Jim Best/ Tony McCoy) are both well fancied here.

Ayr, Plumpton and Wolverhampton

Only average fare today at the N.H. meetings at Ayr and Plumpton and the all-weather flat racing at Wolverhampton, but at least racing goes ahead after the disastrous loss of Cheltenham´s big Saturday meeting; it looks as if the Boylesports Hurdle, the main event here, could be saved and will possibly be run this Saturday at Ascot.The going at both Ayr and Plumpton is however very heavy and stamina will be the most necessary quality this afternoon, especially in the 3 miles 1 furlong chase at 14.25 CET at Ayr. Top-weight King Barry (Paula Robson/ Tmmy Murphy) is the best horse in the field and looks the likeliest winner, although Ryminster (John Wade/ Brian Hughes) could be a big danger. German-bred Quicuyo made a good chasing debut recently and can now take the beginners chase at 13.50, although we are not always happy about the progeny if Acatenango on this ground. At Plumpton, Freeze Up (David Pipe/ Tom Scudore), an easy winner at Fontwell 6 days ago, can follow up in the 3 1/4 miöes handicap chase at 15.35. Jigsaw Dancer (Andrew Turnell/ Mark Grant) was a useful hurdler and looks a nice prospect over fences; he can win the novice chase at 15.35, a race that has frequently gone to an above-average performer. German-bred Wiesenfürst (Gary and Jamie Moore) is no star, but he can score off bottom weight in the 2 miles handicap hurdle at 16.40. AtWolverhampton, Hucking Heat (Reg Hollinshead/ David kenny) who has won 3 of his last 4 races, including this CD, looks a good thing to defy top weight in the apprentice handicap over 10 furlongs at 15.15, now that likely rival Plush is a non-runner. The maiden race at 17.20 comes possibly a fortnight or so too early for Irish challenger January (Ted Walsh/ Pat Cosgrave) but he can still beat this modest oppositiuon.

SUNDAY: Hong Kong International Races

Hong Kong´s big international meeting this Sunday, sponsored by Cathay Pacific, is truly an international affair with the 4 main races, over 6,8,10 and 12 furlongs, featuring runners from all 5 continents. It is the last big flat meeting of 2008 and should help tie up the odds and ends for the international handicappers who traditionally meet here to fix the international ratings for the year. Please note that because of the time difference (HK is 7 hours ahead of CET) the races will be run early on Sunday morning. The Sprint features two of the world´s best over the distance of 6 furlongs, the Australian Apache Cat, trained by Gary Aurell and rated 121, just touched off last time by Takeover Target, and the French hope Marchand d´Or (Freddie Head, 120), winner of the July Cup and the Abbaye (without Overdose!) but who ran below form in this event last year.

German hope Abbadjinn (Peter Rau/ Terry Hellier) is rated only 110 and faces a stiff task, but prize-money goes down to 6th place, so he should be in the money at least, although the fast ground will not necessarily suit him ideally. The same goes for Ralf Rohne´s Estejo (Daniele Porc) in the Cup, over 10 furlongs; he put up easily his best performance when winning the Premio Roma on heavy ground last time, but conditions this time will be very different - and the opposition far stronger. There could however be a German result here, as Linngari (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) is German-owned and retires to stud at Gestüt Römerhof after this race. He is a very versatile performer, having won top races from 6 furlongs (Goldene Peitsche) to 10 furlongs (Grosser Dallmayr-Preis) and could put up a strong effort here; on ratings he has South African-trained Eagle Mountain and local hope Viva Pataca to fear. In Munich he defeated Michael Jarvis´ Pressing, who runs here in the mile and also has a good each-way chance. Andreas Schütz´ Good Ba Ba won this last year, but does not appear to be in the same form this time around, so the main danger is Breeders´ Cup Mile runner-up Kip deVille.

Easily the best German hope is Wolfgang Figge´s Poseidon Aventure (Andreas Suborics), who runs in the Vase over 1 1/2 miles. The horse is reported in excellent form by his optimistic trainer and could definitely finish in the first four. Last year´s winner Doctor Dino is one obvious danger; he has been a wonderful servant to trainer Richard Gibson, but has had a lot of tough races, and possibly the Australian hope Douro Valley could be the one to beat..

John Durkan Memorial rescheduled for today

With admirable initiative, the Irish racing authorities have switched Sunday´s abandoned Punchestown meeting to today, where conditions are still bad but (just about) raceable. The card is exactly the same as it was on Sunday, and the main feature is the Grade One John Durkan Memorial Chase over 2 1/2 miles at 15.05 CET. The two to concentrate on here, on paper at least, are Paul Nicholls´ Noland (Sam Thomas), an extremely consistent performer now moving up in grade, and War of Attrition (Mouse Morris/ Davy Russell), the Cheltenham Gold Cup winner in 2006, who after two years off with various injuries has come right back to form with two good wins this autumn. However the very testing going may not suit the favourites and The Listener (Nick Mitchell/ Daryl Jacob) could be the each-way alternative. The spectacular grey was a bit below par last time, but loves heavy ground and may well make all the running. The listed novice hurdle at 14.05 is another good race. Go Native (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) must give 3 lbs to The Last Derby (Eoin Griffin/ David Casey), but Tom Taaffe´s Table Talk could be the interesting one here. He won his only bumper on heavy ground and is facing good opposition on his hurdling debut, but as a brother to Kicking King (another Gold Cup winner) he may well up to the task.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Shirley Casper - Cockleshell Road - Persian City
2.Race: Go Native - The Last Derby - Jaffonnien
3.Race: Mantell Gail - Dantes Reef - Imaalhall
4.Race: Noland - War Of Attrition - The Listener
5.Race: Merchent Paddy - Conem - Kilcrea Castle
6.Race: Indian Pace - Deutschland - Raven`S Run
7.Race: Perfectly Composed - Bobs Display - Miss Abrahnovic

All-weather action today

Southwell stages the only flat racing today, and 6 of the 8 races at the Nottinghamshire track are class 6 events with large fields of moderate performers. The shining exception is the class 3 handicap over 5 furlongs at 14.00 CET, with 11 runners.almost all of them CD specialists. Oldtimer Pawan (Ann Stokell) has had a 3 week break and runs his best races here; with a professional jockey he would have a great chance. However that is not the case, so Yungburra (Steve Parr/ Adam Kirby) and Bibiou (Robert Cowell/ Eddie Ahertn), 3rd and 5th in a similar event at Great Leighs on Saturday, must be preferred, while Tartatartufate (James Gven/ Chris Catlin) and Garlogs (Reg Hollinshead/ Hayley Turner) must also be considered. The class 5 handicap over 1 3/4 miles sees the comeback of Zaffeu (Tony Juckes/ Vince Slattery) who won 4 races from 5 starts in the first few weeks of this year but has been off the track since. As he may need the race, preference is for the consistent top-wei ght Pertemps Network (Mick Easterby/ Dale Gibson) and Dart (James Fanshawe/ Adam Kirby), disappointing favourite last time out but certainly capable of better.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Silent Wonder - Rio Cobolo - Africa`S Star
2.Race: Fortunella - Transmission - Karmest
3.Race: Yungaburra - Matsunosuke - Irish Pearl
4.Race: Westwood - Soba Jones - The Geester
5.Race: Monkey Glas - Came Back - Red Cape
6.Race: Pertemps Networks - Dart - Zaffeu
7.Race: Blakeshall Quest - Night Prospector - Mister Incredible
8.Race: Mrs Bun - Guildenstern - Valentino Swing

Sedgefield and Fontwell today

There is an inspection later today at Sedgefield, but if racing gets the green light, then Top of the Knar (Peter Bowen/ Tom O´rien), who has been running in much better company, can win the novice hurdle over 2 3/4 miles at 15.20 CET, while the maiden chase at 14.20 over 3 miles 3 furlongs, which will take some getting on the likely heavy going, looks a match between Tank Top (Tom George/ Paddy Brennan) and Belon Gale (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan).

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Bewery Man - Kinfayre Boy - Satindra
2.Race: Belon Gale - Tank Top - Ajay
3.Race: Rivington Pike - Barashi - Golden Tokyo
4.Race: Tot Of The Knar - Ballybanks - Easby Park
5.Race: Major Catch - Shulmin - Whatcanyasay
6.Race: Blast The Past - Nevsky Bridge - Toss The Caber



At Fontwell, the going will not be so bad, and Chiaro (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), who ra well at Newbbury 12 days ago, should take the beginners chase at 14.10. The novice hurdle at 15.40 should go to local trainer Suzy Smith´s Missoula (Colin Bolger), who has run well on the flat since her one poor effort over hurdles, but Nick Gifford´s newcomer Nicobar could be a problem. The selling hurdle at 14.40 is suprisingly the best race of the day, being rated class 3, but few of the runners can be guaranteed to run up to their form. The two interesting ones here are the German-breds Axinit (Eddie Creighton/ James Davies) and Swift Sailor (Gary and Jamie Moore), who is very well treated by the race conditions; but the moody Axinit is certainly capable enough on his day but must give the Moore runner a lot of weight.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Sufad - House Of Lords - Dantari
2.Race: Chiaro - Sound Accord - Carrick Oscar
3.Race: Swift Sailor - Ouste - Sir Monty
4.Race: Vibe - Boscall Hill - Don`T Ask Me
5.Race: Missoula - The Wedding Horse - Balthazar King
6.Race: Dillay Brook - Just Poppytee - Its A Classic
7.Race: Golden Feather - King Gabriel - Maximix

Opening day at Cagnes-sur-mer

Winter is here and today sees the opening of the winter meeting at Cagnes-sur-mer on the French Riviera. For the next month they will stage N.H. racing and from mid-January onwards flat racing. It seems that there will be far fewer German runners at the meeting than in past seasons, owning to the reluctance of the Cagnes authorities to give stabling to German trainers. It seems that some French trainers have objected to the large number of German-trained runners (and winners!) in recent weeks in French races. There is also trotting today at Vincennes.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Indigo Blue - Borrachito - Commissaire
2.Race: Number Giant - Vasco Marengo - Spring Rock
3.Race: Bonita Du Berlais - Parikia - Aja Moriniere
4.Race: Bamarok - Gouidal Bihan - Altamirano
5.Race: Queen Quest - Miss Joyau - Fiery Sea
6.Race: Musica Bella - Quelle Melody - Arctic Farandol
7.Race: Herode Quercus - Hawai Surfer - Bel Empereur
8.Race: Olga d`Arthel - Matuvu - Pouchki De Somoza

All-weather action at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

In the current cold spell all-weather racing is likely to be more and more important, but today´s two meetings are very modest and all races at both Lingfield and Wolverhampton are either class 5 or 6. The 7 furlongs claiming race at 14.30 CET at Lingfield has arguably the classiest runners of the day; Desert Dreamer (Tom Dascombe/ Richard Kingscote), Makshoof (Kevin Ryan/ Darryll Holland) and Electric Warrior (Karl Burke/ Jim Crowley) stand out on ratings, and it would be surprising if they do not fight out the finish. Dascombe has his team in great form (3 winners yesterday) and his charge has to be the selection. Darwin´s Dream (Paul Cole/ Nelson de Souza) is an interesting German-bred runner in the mile maiden for 2yo´s at 15.00, although December Draw (William Knight/ Shane Kelly) looks hard to beat here after his good debut 23 days ago at Great Leighs, and another German-bred with possibilities is Napoletano (Simon Dow/ Nicky Mackay) in the mile handicap at 15.30. At Wo lverhampton, Luca Cumani´s well- bred Annabelle´s Charm (Dane O´Neill) is expected to win the maiden race at 16,40 but will probably start at a very short price. Course specialist My Mirasol (Don Cantillon/ Simon Walker) can take the amateur riders handicap at 15.10, while Irish-trained Spiritina (Noel Lawlor/ Rory Cleary), an easy winner over 7 furlongs here on Saturday, can complete a quick double in the 6 furlongs handicap at 17.40, where Michael Wigham´s pair Sendreni (Toby Atkinson) and River Kirov (Chris Catlin) look the main dangers.

Musselburgh today

Musselburgh offers the only N.H. meeting of the day, and it seems that there no weather problems there, although it is quite likely that more meetings will be abandoned later this week as a result of the frosty weather. Musselburgh also appears to have missed most of last week´s rain and snow, so that the going is forecast to be good to firm. Trainer Howard Johnson and his stable jockey Denis O´Regan once again look to be the team to follow, and they can win both divisions of the maiden hurdle with Caravel at 13.20 CET and Red Moloney an hour later, both smart flat race performers, as well as the novice hurdle at 14.50 with Night Force, although Numero Due could be a danger here. The big betting race is the class 3 handicap hurdle at 15.20, with Howard Davies and Denis O´Regan represented by Motive; he has a chance but this is a very open event, and Viper (Reg Hollinshead/ David Dennis) - not to be confused with the German hurdler of the same name - is our tentative suggestio n. German-bred Tiger KIng (Peter Monteith/ Timmy Murphy) has an each-way chance here, but the best German prospect is probably Leopold (DW Thomson/ Ryan Mania) in the conditional jockeys handicap chase at 13.50.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Caravel - Divers - Hi Big Spec
2.Race: Leopold - Stravaigin - Divex
3.Race: Red Moloney - Skylancer - Bajan Parkes
4.Race: Numero Due - Night Force - Inner Voice
5.Race: Motive - Speed Up - Tension Point
6.Race: Cybora - Smart Man - Festival King
7.Race: Rushwee - Saveiro - Hillview Boy

France today

there is a strongly contested listed race at Toulouse today, the Prix Max Picard over 2400 metres at 14.30, the 14th and last leg of the Defi du Galop. The field of 12 includes a runner from Germany, Hans Blume´s Sassoaloro (Alxi Badel) and two runners trained in England by Paul Blockley, the more interesting of which is surely Lady Deauville (Hayley Turner), a recent winner with this rider in Hanover. The strong local defence is headed by Latin Mood (Philippe Demercastel/ Stephane Oasquier) and Elasos (D. Sepulchre/ Davy Bonilla). There is also a good trotting card at Vincennes, featuring the Criterium des 3 Ans at 14.50.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Glamstar - Dream Like Turtle - Rockirk
2.Race: Usseglio - Valdivia - Dinaday
3.Race: Latin Mood - Rento - Cristobal
4.Race: Indian Sly - Indian Beau - Bucky Ball
5.Race: Moskato - Three Little Words - Nelson Crack
6.Race: Deacon Blue - Jafar Second - Smart Call
7.Race: La Mariane - Fanga - Moon Rock
8.Race: El Shenandoah - Mante - Royal Borough

all-weather racing at Lingfield

with the two British N.H, meetings frozen off, the all-weather fixture at Lingfield is now the only racing today in the U.K., and there are some quite competitive handicaps on the card. The class 2 handicap over 7 furlongs at 15.50 CET is the best race, but looks very tricky, as several of these have met before with varying results. Markab (Kevin Morgan/ Pat Cosgrave) holds some of these on latest running, but My Gacho (Mark Johnston/ Darryll Holland) and Bazroy (David Evans/ Stephen Donohoe) are just 2 of several dangers. Course specialist Grande Caiman (Richard Hannon/ Ryan Moore) can take the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 16.00, where in-form War of the Roses (Roy Brotherton/ Paul Mulrennan) is clearly the one to beat, while bottom weight River Thames (Kevin Ryan/ Martin Dwyer) won so well over this CD 15 days ago that he can defy his outside draw and the move up in grade and take the 6 furlongs handicap at 14.30.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Joss Stick - Triskaidekaphobia - Our Fugitive
2.Race: Can Can Star - Torrens - Siena Star
3.Race: General Feeling - Piccolo Diamante - Norcroft
4.Race: River Thames - The Game - Autumn Blades
5.Race: Yellow Printer - Aqwaas - Twenty Score
6.Race: Markab - Beat The Bell - Decameron
7.Race: War Of The Roses - Aypeeyes - Slip
8.Race: Old Romney - Tabulate - Majehar

Kelso and Warwick frozen off - Punchestown still doubtful

the cold weather in Britain and Ireland has already claimed two victims today - Kelso and Warwick have both been abandoned because of a frozen track, and there are doubts about today´s big meeting at Punchestown, where another inspection has been called.

Ireland today

racing is scheduled at Punchestown and Clonmel, but the former fixture is in doubt because of frost. If racing goes ahead, Punchestown will stage easily the best race of the day, the John Durkan Memorial, a Grade One steeplechase over 2 1/2 miles at 15.05 CET. Ex-Cheltenham Gold Cup winner War of Attrition (Mouse Morris/ Davy Russell) is the star attraction here, having won both his starts since his comeback in good style. However he meets some tough opposition here, including the two British raiders Noland (Paul Nicholls/ Dam Thomas) and The Listener (Nick Mitchell/ Daryl Jacob). The listed novice hurdle at 14.05 is another good race, and Table Talk (Tom Taaffe/ Barry Geraghty), brother to another Gold Cup winner Kicking King, is the interesting runner here, making his hurdles debut at a high level after easily winning his only bumper. The racing at Clonmel is much lower grade; ex-German Le Marquis (Tony Martin/M.J.Ferris) reappears here after a long absence, but the trip of the beginners chase at 15.15 of only 2 miles is possibly too short for him.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Persian City - Cockleshell Road - Steve Capall
2.Race: Go Native - The Last Derby - Mullicagh Lass
3.Race: Imaalhall - Got The Urge - Mantell Gail
4.Race: Noland - War Of Attrition - The Listener
5.Race: Conem - Bluesea Cracker - Lukie Victor
6.Race: Deutschland - Pesoto - Bellflower Boy
7.Race: Bobs Display - Perfectly Composed - Keats Dream

all-weather action today

there is all-weather action this afternoon at Great Leighs and this evening at Wolverhampton, but although the fields are quite competitive the standard is mainly low. The exceptions are the two class 2 handicaps at Great Leighs, over 6 furlongs at 16.30 CET and over 10 furlongs at 18.00, which both look very tricky. In the former race, a.w. specialist Maltese Falcon (Paul Cole/ Nelson de Souza) and Diriculous (Terry Mills/ Neil Callan) both look dangerous, but it may pay to take a chance with Biniou (Robert Cowell/ Eddie Ahern) who seems to be coming back to form and can avenge his recent CD defeat by top-weight Fyodor (Charles Dore/ Liam Keniry). In the later event, 5 of the 7 runners met last week at Kempton, where Suits Me (Tom tate/ Micky Fenton) made all the running; he is now 6 lbs higher, and on a different track the placings could well be reversed, while ex-Italian Bon Spiel (Luca Cumani/ Dane O´neill) is an interesting newcomer. The best race at Wolverhampton is th e 5 furlongs handicap at 20.50, with numerous CD specialists in the line-up, including Almaty Exporess (John Weymes/ Brian McHugh) who is well-drawn and may be able to lead pillar to post.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Lapina - Little Richard - Generous Star
2.Race: Hillside Lad - Our Wee Girl - Desert Strike
3.Race: Rainbow Seeker - Sharpener - Moscow Eight
4.Race: Fyodor - Diriculous - Beat The Bell
5.Race: Miss Beat - Aurora Sky - Port De La Ponche
6.Race: Three Ducks - Queens Flight - Hallingdal Blue
7.Race: Moynahan - Suits Me - Mafeking
8.Race: Vine Street - Don Pietro - Lord Theo

Chepstow (Wales) and Navan (Ireland)

despite the much more valuable races run today at Sandown, it is worth noting that several top jockeys will be in action at Chepstow, including Timmy Murphy, Richard Johnson, Tom Scudamore and most famously Sam Thomas, who has been "jocked off" Master Minded and the other Nicholls runners at Sandown and sent to the Welsh track instead. He could well justify this move by winning several races for the Nicholls stable, as Charity Lane in the novice hurdle at 13.25 CET, Nakai in the novice chase at 14.00, Inchidaly Rock in the introductory hurdle at 15.45 and Gullible Gordon an hour later, all hold good winning chances. The most interesting runner at Navan is Zaarito (Colm Murphy/ MM O´Connor), if he is allowed to take his chance in the opening maiden hurdle at 13.15, for which no fewer than 30 runners are expected. A top bumper horse last year, Zaarito is one of the most exciting prospects for this season, but he was a non-runner at Fairyhouse 3 days ago because of the ground, w hich is not likely to be much better now.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Charity Lane - Pipo De Re - Cypress Grove
2.Race: Wichita Lineman - Nakai - Pancake
3.Race: Sexy Rexy - Elton - Cannon Fire
4.Race: Ardaghey - Lysander - Presenting Copper
5.Race: Inchidaly Rock - Pause And Clause - Duke Of Miskin
6.Race: Peut Etre Sivola - Notabotheronme - Cross Compliance
7.Race: Gullible Gordon - Kayf Aramis - Mr Bennett

Fighting Fifth now at Wetherby

the important Champion Hurdle trial, the Fighting Fifth Hurdle, is normally run at Newcastle, but after last week´s meeting there had to be abandoned, the race was saved and is now to be run this afternoon at 14.50 at Wetherby (which also has to survive an early morning inspection). Only 6 runners, but this is a high-class renewal, with the field headed by 2007 Champion Hurdle wnner Sublimity (Robbie Hennessy/ Andrew McNamara), one of 3 Irish runners, and amazingly the first runner ever for his trainer. The obvious threat is Nicky Henderson´s Punjabi (Barry Geraghty), who has already beaten him this year and is certain to start at a short price. However the likely very heavy groundf will not be in favour of the favourites, and Blue Bajan (Andrew Turnell/ Philip Hide) and Beau Michael (Adrian McGuinness/ Jason Maguire) are both capable of springing a surprise. With the Fighting Fifth now added to the card, there are 8 races at Wetherby and a very early start at 12.40 CET.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Diamond Frontier - Border Reiver - Fabalu
2.Race: Glenary - Kentucky Boy - Nothingbutthetruth
3.Race: Will Be Done - Silver By Nature - Basoda
4.Race: Andytown - Terenzium - Theatre Belle
5.Race: Punjabi - Sublimity - Blue Bajan
6.Race: Donny Briggs - Cesium - Tarrivo
7.Race: Wee Forbees - Edmo Yewkay - Polar Gunner
8.Race: Malko De Beaumont - Zitenka - Just For Men

Master Minded vs Tidal Bay (and Fiepes Shuffle!) in Tingle Creek

Feature of an excellent card at Sandown today is the Tingle Creek Chase over 2 miles at 15.35 CET, named after one of the best 2 mile chasers of all time and always a top class event, in which trainer Paul Nicholls has an excellent record, having won 5 of the last 9 runnings. This time he has 3 of the 7 runners, including last year´s winner, the German-bred Twist Magic (Robert Thornton), but clearly the stable´s main hope is Master Minded (Tony McCoy), who won the Champion Chase at Cheltenham in spectacular fashion, and is as a reszlt now the highest-rated N.H. horse in training. Theoretically he must win today, but he faces strong opposition from Tidal Bay (Howartd Johnson/ Denis O´Regan), also an impressive Cheltenham winner last March, who has already shown that he is in good form this autumn. From the German point of view the most interesting runner is Christian von der Recke´s front-runner Fiepes Shuffle (Jamie Moore), who runs his best races here and if he gets an uncon tested lead, might be able to hang on to third place. The Grade Two Hwenry VIII novics chase, also over 2 miles, at 15.00 only has 5 runners but is also a fascinating race which could again go to Nicholls and McCoy with Free World with Johnson and O´Regan supplying one of the main dangers in Astarador. Strangely, there is another runner on the card named Free World, this one trained by Carl Lllewellyn and ridden by O´regan, and he also has a good chance of winning the handicap hurdle at 14.25, where Earth Crystal (Nicky Henderson(/ McCoy) is the obvious danger. The opening novice hurdle at 13.50 is another good race; Clay Hollister (Henderson/ McCoy) is the likely favourite despite a long layoff, but German-bred World Shift (Evan and Chridstian Williams), a half-brother to Well Chief, could figure much more strongly this time. The card ends with the London National, a 3 3/4 mile handicap chase at 16.35, which will require plenty of stamina on the likely testing ground. Rambl ing Minster (Keith and James Reveley) and Nine de Sivola (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee) are two possible contenders here from the North.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Clay Hollister - Quiver Hill - Comkilred Champ
2.Race: Earth Crystal - At The Money - Court Ruler
3.Race: Free World - Araldur - Cheating Chance
4.Race: Master Minded - Tidal Bay - Takeroc
5.Race: Tchico Polos - Blue Shark - King`S Revenge
6.Race: Kilbeggan Blade - Hello Bud - Rambling Minster

All-weather action today

There is plenty of action for fans of all-weather racing today, with Lingfield this afternoon and Dundalk and Wolverhampton this evening. It is Dundalk´s last fixture of 2008 and the Irish track, the only all-weather racecourse in the country, has been an unqualified success since it opened its doors 2 years ago. This can be seen by tonight´s card, where there are maximum fields (14) in all 8 events, which features two valuable handicaps, over 6 furlongs at 19.10 CET and over 1 1/2 miles at 21.40, as well as a conditions race over 7 furlongs at 20.40, in which top-weight Finicius (Eoin Griffin/ Fran Berry), unbeaten in 3 starts here and on the fringe of group race class, can again hold his old adversary Quinmaster (Mike Halford/ Robbie Cleary). The handicaps look very open, but could possibly go to Soap Wars (Halford/ Cleary) and Naiysan (Oliver Finnegan/ Wayne Lordan) respectively. At Lingfield the best race is the class 3 mile handicap at 15.25. Internationaldebut (Steve Pa rr/ Adam Kirby) is in great form and has won his last 2 in good style, but faces some strong opposition today, such as bottom weight Premier Danseur (Mark Johnston/ Greg Fairley), just beaten here on Tuesday, while Flipando (David Barron/ Jamie Spenser), who has been disappointing several times, will possibly be no Flopando this time. Two German breds, Carmenero (Willie Muir/ Hayley Turner) and Napoletano (Simon Dow/ Ian Mongan) contest the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.00 and both could run well. Several of the trainers and jockeys in action here travel on to Wolverhampton´s evening meeting, where Jamie Spencer can win the maiden race for 2yo fillies on Brian Meehan´s Rag and Bone at 20.50, while Steve Parr and Adam Kirby can take the 5 furlongs handicap at 21.20 with Fast Freddy.

Exeter and Sandown today

Both Exeter and Sandown stage above average cards today and even though some of the fields are small, there is plenty of high-class racing at both tracks. While this is normal for Sandown (where there is an even better card tomorrow), it is less so for Exeter and today´s fixture is undoubtedly one of their best of the year. The valuable 2 miles 3 furlongs handicap hurdle at 14.00 CET has only 5 runners but this is still a highly interesting event, with the smart Franchoek (Alan King/ Tony McCoy) making his handicap debut under a very high weight. Whether he is able to concede 19 lbs to the useful Hector´s Choice (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) is difficult to predict; the other 3 runners are out of the handicap, but not impossible. There are also 5 runners in the class 2 novice chase at 14.35, and obviously Exmoor Ranger (Vic Dartnall/ Christian Williams), a faller last time out, would be an appropriate winner, but Panjo Bere (Gary and Jamie Moore) is going for a hat-trick an d looks a big danger. The big betting race at Exeter is the Devon Marathon, a handicap chase over 4 miles. This looks wide open, but in view of the testing conditions, we expect one of lighter weghts to win and make last year´s winner The Risky Viking (Nick Williams/ Daryl Jacob), Blaze Ahead (Brendan Powell/ Wilson Renwick) and Waking Ned (P. Kirby/ James Reveley) our 3 to follow here. The other fascinating feature at Exeter is Little Shilling´s attempt to win his 6th race in less than 3 weeks in the handicap chase at 16.20; every winning run comes to an end some time and we predict it might come today (but would not bet on it!). At Sandown, there are again only 5 runners in the intermediate chase over 3 miles at 15.35, but this is a serious race and all 5 have good form to their credit. Roll Along (Carl Llewelly/ Timmy Murphy), who defeated Air Force One last time, and the Queen´s Barbers Shop (Nicky Hemderson/ Barry Geraghty) an excellent runner-up at Cheltenham, look the likeliest winers. The Grade Two novice hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 15.00 is another top event. On Raglan Road (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan) has a tall reputation and will probably start a warm favourite, but Junior, having his first run for Alan King and Robert Thornton, and Grizebeck (Nicky Richards/ Davy Condon) will not be easily brushed aside.

German runners at Deauville

There are a number of racedays in December on the fibregrass track at Deauville and today sees the first of them, with a mammoth card of 12 races (4 before lunch, and 8 in the afternoon) and with German-trained runners in 5 of them. In the second race this morning at 11.50, for 2yo fillies over a mile, there are 3 German runners: Wayra (Ralf Rohne/ William Mongil), Cordoba (Horst Steinmetz/ Davy Bonilla) and La Big (Mario Hofer/ Alexis Badel). In view of the excellent stable form, Hofer´s filly possibly has the best chance, but this is a tough race with 16 runners, including English-trained Seradim (Paul Cole/ Stephane Pasquier). Best race of the day is the1500 metres listed race at 15.05, in which Fareion (Sascha Smrczek/ William Mongil) and Jive (Steinmetz/ Thierry Jarnet) race a stiff task. Steinmetz also saddles In My Heart (Andreas Suborics)in the 1900 metres conditions race for 3yo´s at 15.35, where the huge field of 18 also includes another Cole/ Pasquier candidate i n Traphalgar. Half an hour later Matchpoiunt (Norbert Sauer/ Henk Grewe) runs in a 1300 metre handicap, while in the fina race at 17.00 over 2400 metres for amateur riders, there are two more German runners, Monolithos (Rainer Ording/ Marc Lerner) and Lennon (Ralf Rohne/ Alexandre Lemarie). The German runners will do well to win much today, with big fields and strong opposition in almost all races.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Cattelan - Jojo Salsa - Noor`s Goldway
2.Race: Jakonda - Marechale - Birmanie
3.Race: Pink Candie - Sorokin - Choupachope
4.Race: Stop Making Sense - Passager - Fareion
5.Race: Traphalgar - Elbrus - Indran
6.Race: Princesse Bleue - Nuit De Glace - Mesnil Des Aigles
7.Race: Totdrou - Pierre De L`Une - Admiratif
8.Race: Betcherev - Satwa Duke - Doudyla

Market Rasen off, Leicester on

today´s fixture at Market Rasen has been abandoned as the track is waterlogged in places following the heavy rain and snow of the past few days, but racing at Leicester goes ahead. The best betting race on the card is the handicap chase at 15.10 CET with 11 runners. Course specialist Desert Secrets (Johnny Portman/ Gerald Tumelty) won well last time out, but faces stiff opposition from Mark Rimell´s Ours (Aidan Coleman), going for a hat-trick, and last-time-out winner Pacco, from the in-form combination of Oliver Sherwood and Dominic Elsworth. Sherwood and Elsworth can also go close with Brandage in the 2 mile novice hurdle half an hour later, who shaped like a certain future winner last time, but the same can be said of Night Cru (Jonjo O´Neill/ Noel Fehily) and Latanier (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), and this looks quite a tricky event.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Mvuto - Amouretta - Sherbet Lemon
2.Race: A Double Ewe Bee - Milton Des Bieffes - Ayurveda
3.Race: Pacco - Desert Secrets - High Jack
4.Race: Bugsy`S Boy - Night Cru - Latanier
5.Race: Mutual Respect - Phoudamour - Minella Four Star
6.Race: Cordier - Caulkleys Bank - High Life

Wincanton today

Sam Thomas has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons recently, mainly due to his habit of falling off at the last fence. This has cost him the ride on Master Minded in Saturday´s Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown (for which Christian von der Recke´s Fiepes Shuffle is also an intended runner with Jamie Moore aboard). However he gets the chance today to rehabilitate himself by winning the first two races at Wincanton for trainers on whose horses he has fallen in the last couple of weeks: Pepite de Soleil in the 3yo hurdle at 14.20 for Paul Nicholls and Lightning Strike for Venetia Williams in the beginners chase half an hour later. Both are likely to start hot favourite and it must be hoped that he gets round safely. The class 3 handicap hurdle over 2 miles at 15.20 is the best betting race at Wincanton. This is a very open event, and Double the Trouble (Andrew Turnell/ Nick Scholfield), who ran well at Kepton last time, and Olympian (Gary and Jamie Moore), runner-up his ladt two starts, are zthe lkikely favourites, but the 3 German-breds in the field are also interesting: Classic Dream (Brendan Powell/ Timmy Murphy), Oldrik (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) and Allez Frank (AE Jones/ Wayne Kennedy). The handicap chase half an hour later over 3 1/4 miles is equally tricky; Midnight Gold (Peter Bowen/ Seamus Durack), Young Dancer (Vic Dartnall/ Christian Williams) and Maori Legend (Neil Mulholland/ Felix de Giles) are three of the more likely candidates.

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Pepite de Soleil - Arrayan - Secret Dancer
2.Race: Lightning Strike - Tarotino - Scaramouche
3.Race: Double The Trouble - Quizzene - Dalaram
4.Race: Young Dancer - Wizard Of Edge - Midnight Gold
5.Race: Old Brigade - Wise Men Say - Hearty Dove
6.Race: Ping Pong Sivola - Mighty Moose - Ede`Iff

Catterick, Fairyhouse and Plumpton

Three jumps fixtures this afternoon, and punters are advised to be careful at Fairyhouse, where the ground is desperate and there are maximum fields in 7 of the 8 races. The most interesting runner here is Zaarito (Colm Murphy/ MM O´Connor), a top bumper horse last season, who makes his hurdling debut in the maiden race at 14.00 CET. Another likely short-priced favourite is Moskova (Paul Nolan/ Davy Russell) in the mares novice chase, also over 2 miles, at 15.35; She has already won this year on the flat and over hurdles and recently made a good debut over fences. The fields are much smaller at Plumpton, with only 4 runners in the beginners chae over 2 1/2 miles at 14.05. Sovereign King (Alan King/Robert Thornton) unseated his jockey last time, but if he jumps round safely, may just prove too strong for Olmeto Collonges (Henrietta Knight/ Paul Moloney) and Phardessa (Richard Phillips/ Sean Quinlan). The most interesting runner at Plumptpn is Little Shilling (Tim Vaughan/ Robb ie Killoran), who has already scored 4 times - all over hurdles - in the past fortnight but now goes over fences at 16.10. He can win again, but it will not be as easy as his other recent successes. German-bred Wildbach has a good each-way chance in the claiming hurdle at 15.40. If there is a star on view today at the British meetings, it can only be Nine Stories (Howard Johnson/ Denis O´Regan), who appears to have a simple chance in the 3yo novice hurdle at 14.50 at Catterick. In the handicap chase there at 15.50, also over 2 miles, 12yo course specialist Stormy Beech (Bob and Kenny Johnson) attempts to follow up his last win´s Sedgefield victory, but our fancy here is Osomagic (Sue Smith/ Shane Byrne), who has finished 6th in all his 3 races this season, but in better company.

N.H. racing at Hereford

Today´s jumps meeting at Hereford is very low key, and suprisingly the best race on paper is the class 3 claiming chase over 3 miles 1 1/2 furlongs at 15.10 CET. Ammunition (Carl Llewellyn/ Noel Fehily) has the best recent form, but on ratings both top-weight Mistanoora (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) and lightly-weighted Methodical (Brendan Powell/ Wilson Renwick) could be dangerous. There is a large field for the novice hurdle over 2 1/2 miles an hour later, but this could well boil down to a match between Finney (Oliver Sherwood/ Dominic Elsworth), who ran a good race last time out at Plumpton, and Blistering (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who had good bumper form. The same two teams could also fight out the finish of the beginners chase at 14.10, with Lyes Green (Sherwood/ Elsworth) marginally preferred over Spare Cash (King/ "Choc").

Betting forecast:
1.Race: Folie A Deux - Gotontheluckyone - Justabout
2.Race: Spare Cash - Lyes Green - Will The Till
3.Race: Rajam - Three Lions - Mr Maxim
4.Race: Ammunition - Mistanoora - Methodical
5.Race: Golden Feather - Deep Pockets - Golden Duck
6.Race: Finney - Blistering - Chevy To The Levy
7.Race: Song Sung Blue - Swansbrook - Varekai