Fontwell and Kempton (a.w.)

Fontwell has passed an inspection and racing goes ahead, although the going is certain to be testing. This is one of their best meetings of the year, featuring the Grade Two National Spirit Hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 16.35 CET. Lough Derg (David Pipe/ Christian Williams) is a standing dish here and has won this race for the past two seasons, but there are reasons to take him on today. He does not like really heavy ground, and his recent form is not inspiring. He was well behind Souffleur (Peter Bowen/ Tom O´Brien) over 3 miles last week at Haydock and although he now meets the latter on better terms he was beaten so far that a reversal of the form seems unlikely. Afsoun (Nicky Henderson/ Andrew Tinkler) was even further back, so our preference is for Qosak (Paul Nicholls/ Nick Scholfield) and the ex-French Swap (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy),who as a 4yo filly gets a lot of weight from all the others. However Qosak fares, Paul Nicholls can still land a double here with Ta ke the Breeze in the novice chase at 15.30, and Herecomesthetruth, top-weight in the handicap chase at 16.00. Moon over Miami (Charlie Mann/ Robert Thornton) is probably the best of several ex-Germans running today, but he is another one out of form in his recent races.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Ravenclaw - The Giant Bolster - Whitcombe Spirit
2. Race: Take The Breeze - Chariot Charger - Penn Da Benn
3. Race: Herecomesthetruth - Saphir Des Bois - Heathcote
4. Race: Lough Derg - Qozak - Afsoun
5. Race: Moncadou - Murphy`S Cardinal - Mr Ed
6. Race: Double Dash - Benmore Boy - Near The Water
7. Race: Five Star Wilsham - Caught By Witness - J`Adhere




Kempton goes back to all-weather racing after its big jumps meeting yesterday. An interesting ex-German runner hre is Escardo (Davd Bridgwater/ Derek Nolan), who runs in the claiming race over 11 furlongs at 16.20. He has obviously had his problems and has been unplaced in his 4 races in the U.K. (all over hurdles), but it is worth remembering that he was runner-up in both his German races last year, at the Baden-Baden spring meeting and then as second to Titurel at Dresden. Those pieces of form would certainly be good enough to win this. Conor Dore could win both class 4 handicaps here, over 7 furlongs at 16.55 with Kipchak, and over a mile an hour later with joint top-weight Ilie Nastase, both partnered by Liam Keniry.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Progress - Torres Del Paine - Madlool
2. Race: Roybuoy - Rightcar - Posy Fossil
3. Race: Sahrati - Hurakan - Sedgwick
4. Race: Cut And Thrust - Sunshine Always - Last Sovereign
5. Race: Poppy Gregg - Try Cat - Isle De Maurice
6. Race: Pegasus Again - Ilie Nastase - Hereford Boy

Irish racing today

Plenty of runners in Ireland today, especially at Clonmel with 10 races (!) and large fields in most of them. Mervyn Torrens does well with his German imports and has chances here with Macidoni (CD Maxwell), top-weight in the handicap hurdle at 15.55 and Quartetto (Mark Darcy), who fell at the last last time out, in the beginners chase at 16.30.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Grancore Girl - Fennis Boy - Teffia Rose
2. Race: The Equaliser - Green Mining - Sox`S Girl
3. Race: Macidoni - Spring Wine - Riverscape
4. Race: Darby`S Turn - Quartetto - Becolark
5. Race: Taradoun - Mister Two Fifty - The Paddy Premium
6. Race: The Flying Dustman - Scavenger - The Sneezer
7. Race: Special Token - Inyourgift - Catleen




There is better class racing at Leopardstown, and possibly some late Cheltenham clues - even more for those actually at the track, as several leading trainers are planning to give their horses a racecourse gallop. The best race here is the Grade Two Newlands Chase at 17.20, in which Tranquil Sea (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) should win if he is to justify his position in the market for the Ryanair Chase. Snowy Morning (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) looks the main danger, although the distance - just over 2 miles - is on the short side for this possible Grand National contender. The Mullins/ Walsh team could also score with Cadspeed in the maiden hurdle at 15.45 and Citizen Vic in the novice chase at 16.50, although the former should certainly be treated with caution, having been runner-up 4 times running, and he seems vulnerable to anything with a good turn of foot. The race could still stay in the family as Marlay Park (Margaret and Danny Mullins) looks the one to t ake advantage if Cadspeed flops again. There are 2 ex-Germans running in the Ballbridge Hurdle at 14.40, Green Mile (Tony Martin/ Mr SJ Craig) and Wild Passion (Noel Meade/ Davy Condon); the latter is preferred and meets his latest conqueror Won in the Dark (Sabrina Harty/ Davy Russell) on better terms this time.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: King Of The Refs - Kingsmoss - False Evidence
2. Race: Won In The Dark - Bahrain Storm - Beau Michael
3. Race: Tarkari - Kandari - Alpine Eagle
4. Race: Cadspeed - Marlay Park - Jaffonnien
5. Race: Arbor Supreme - Nuvelli - Sky`S The Limit
6. Race: Citizen Vic - Major Finnegan - Schelm
7. Race: Tranquil Sea - Made In Taipan - Snowy Morning
8. Race: Araucaria - Shot From The Hip - Sizing Mexico

Towcester abandoned, Fontwell on

further heavy rain in many parts of the U.K. have caused the abandonment of today´s N.H. fixture at Towcester, while Fontwell´s big meeting, featuring the National Spirit Hurdle, is also under threat.

Later: Fontwell has passed an inspection and racing is on.

Towcester abandoned, inspection at Fontwell

Final day of Cagnes sur Mer meeting

Today is the last day of the big Riviera winter meeting with several more good German chances. Enzio (Werner Baltromei (Dominique Boeuf), an easy winner earlier in the week, turns out again in the first race at 13.35, but meets better opposition this time. He should however be placed, but Baltromei probably has a better winning chance in the handicap an hour later, wheh he saddles two runners Tiger Village (Boeuf) and Astronom (Ioritz Mendizibal). Arriba Arriba (Eddy Hardouin), who runs in the 3yo mile handicap at 16.15 is another Baltromei entry, although she runs under the Fertillet name, and also has a good each way chance. Vianello (Peter Schiergen/ Boeuf) has been twice placed here and should again be in the money in the 3yo claimer at 16,50, while Black Out (Wolfgang Figge/ Karoly Kerekes) is the best German horse running today. He meets strong opposition in the 1300 metres conditions race at 17.20, the very last race of the meeting, but if he is in peak form should hav e a good chance.

There are no German-trained runners in the two main events, both listed races, but there should be a victory for German breeding in the Grand Prix du Conseil General des Alpes Maritimes, as La Boum (Robert Collet/ Thomas Huet) stands out on form and ratings. The Monsun mare was bred by Gestüt Karlshof and was a very easy winner of her trial for this race.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Broken in Light - Enzio - Tuaoi
2. Race: Ucandri - Paris Vegas - Querry Boy
3. Race: Danseuse Corse - Question d`Or - Rockawango
4. Race: Calafate - American Bowl - Bipe The Dust
5. Race: La Boum - Wysiwyg Lucky - Tangaspeed
6. Race: Fly Tartare - Prince Elidane - Execution
7. Race: Heaven King - Vianello - As Speed
8. Race: Parfum Des Dieux - Cadeau For Maggi - Kerno

Rest of U.K. and Ireland

Even without Newcastle, there is plenty more interesting racing today and German attention will be focussed on the listed 6 furlongs event at 16.50 CET at Lingfield. Smarten Die (Erika Mäder/ Steffi Hofer) is the German runner and and hopes are high that he can at least improve on his sixth place in this event a year ago. The two to beat are clearly Arganil (Kevin Ryan/ Darryll Holland) and Jaconet (David Barron/ Phillip Makin), but Smarten Die could be an interesting place bet at the likely odds. The other listed race at Lingfield is the Winter Derby trial over 10 furlongs at 17.20. Class act here is obviously Gitano Hernando (Marco Botti/ Kieren Fallon), who has his eyes fixed on a much more valuable target than the Winter Derby - the Dubai World Cup no less. If he is to have any chance at Meydan he should win this race today in a canter. Suits Me (Tom Tate/ Holland) and Yahrab (Clive Brittain/ Seb Sanders) are the two for the minor places.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Atlantic Tiger - Christmas Coming - Pascalina
2. Race: Spruce - Sitwell - Sir Liam
3. Race: Glamorous Spirit - Peak District - Even Bolder
4. Race: Jaconet - Arganil - Mullionmileanhour
5. Race: Gitano Hernando - Suits Me - Yahrab
6. Race: Elna Bright - Mahadee - Seek The Fair Land
7. Race: Advanced - Dalradian - Carcinetto




The ground will be very testing at Chepstow, here unfortunately only 4 turn out for the main event, a veteran´s handicap chase at 17.40; on current form this can only concern Magic Sky (Milton Harris/ Oliver Greenall) and Picts Hill (Tony Honeyball/ Liam Heard), who is going for a four-timer but has not run for almost a year. The 3 mile handoap hurdle at 16.30 looks much more open. Last year´s winner Magnifico (David Evans/ Giles Hawkins) is very consistent and should be thereabouts, but he has gone up 17 lbs since last year and at these weights we prefer lightly-raced Cuckoo Lane (Vic Dartnall/ Harry Skelton).

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Bring On The Judge - Crannaghmore Boy - Petito
2. Race: Star Galaxy - New Rackheath - Rudivale
3. Race: Moulin De La Croix - Orana Conti - It`S A Discovery
4. Race: Viking Blond - Hopeful Start - Silver Spinner
5. Race: Salontyre - Anay Turge - Bundle Up
6. Race: Picts Hill - Magic Sky - Mister Quasimodo
7. Race: Five Star Wilsham - Takamaru - Tim The Chair




Main event at Navan is the Grade Two novice hurdle at 15.05, in which top-weight Coole River (Jessica Harrington) and unbeaten 4yo Pittoni (Charlie Byrnes/ Davy Russell) stand out by miles. German-bred Manhattan Boy (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) has shown nothing much this season, but still has an each-way chance in the handicap chase at 16.45, while our best bet of the day is Nicanor (Noel Meade/ Davy Condon) in the beginners chase at 17.50. He would probably have won last time but for a mistake at the last, and the winner then Kempes won a graded race in good style yesterday.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: The Ride Aint Free - Asiya - Son Amix
2. Race: Coole River - Pittoni - Thegreatjohnbrowne
3. Race: Tijuana Dancer - Schumpters Lad - Great Value
4. Race: City Of Doral - Razorlite - Retrievethelegend
5. Race: Mighty Bob - Barneys Honour - Turtle Time Lucky
6. Race: Hangover - Across The Bay - Jadanli
7. Race: Nicanor - More Chimney`S - Deal Done
8. Race: Baby Be Mine - Jetson - Some Fool

Cheltenham trials at Kempton

With only 2 1/2 weeks before the Cheltenham Festival opens, today is virtually the last chance for trainers to run their big race hopes and several races at Kempton will certainly have a big bearing on events at Prestbury Park. Unfortunately one of the expected stars misses the meeting - Alan King´ s Triumph Hurdle favourite Mille Chief has been withdrawn from the Adonis 4yo hurdle at 16.40 CET because of slight lameness. This can hardly improve his chances for Cheltenham, but King has talked up this horse very confidently in recent days. In his absence the race today could lie between the two ex-French runners Soldanito (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), a winner at Pau last time, and Toubab (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh), beaten at odds-on on his British debut, although Ultimate (Brian Ellison/ Keith Mercer) must come into the reckoning on his second place at Carlito Brigante last time.

This is an important day for Nicky Henderson, who desperately needs to get a race into his Champion Hurdle hope (and 2009 winner) Punjabi. He now runs in the Champion Hurdle Trial at 14.00, an additional race to replace last week´s lost Kingwell Hurdle. Punjabi, ridden as usual by stable jockey Barry Geraghty must give away 8lbs and more today, but can still hardly lose this race. However in view of Zaynar´s defeat at 14-1 on last week, one should perhaps be wary of taking long odds-on.

The Henderson/ Geraghty and Nicholls/ Walsh teams also go head to head in the Grade Two novice chase at 15.30 wth Viking Rebel and The Nightingale respectively. The latter is the obvious favourite here, as Viking Rebel´s jumping needs to improve; Nicholls has won this event for the last 4 seasons. Alan King may gain some compensation for Mille Chief´s mishap with the German-bred Salden Licht (Robert Thornton) in the Dovecote novice hurlde at 15.00, but although the ex-Ullmann runner is unbeaten in his British stars, he will need to show further improvement to keep Irish challenger Grey Soldier (Gordon Elliott/ Jason Maguire) and Frascati Park (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) at bay. Henderson runs Ghimaar here, a smart performer on the flat (rated 100+) for Dermot Weld and Galway specialist, who is making his hurdling debut in a very tough race and is possibly best watched for now.

The most valuable race on the card, and also the best betting race, is the Racing Post Trophy, a handicap chase over 3 miles. This is always won by a class horse, and the two top-weights stand out here - Madison du Berlais (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) and Nacarat (Tom George / Tony McCoy), who won the race last year. They both ran at Christmas in the King George over this CD, where the former stayed on well to take a distant second place behind Kauto Star, while Nacarat weakened into fourth after disputing the lead for most of the way. Nacarat is now 4 lbs better off and is our selection. Of the rest ex-Irish Kilcrea Castle (Emma Lavelle/ Jack Doyle), a good third on his British debut, is easily next best.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Punjabi - Treaty Flyer - Border Castle
2. Race: Cabinet Minister - Wolf Moon - River d`Or
3. Race: Salden Licht - Frascati Park - Grey Soldier
4. Race: The Nightingale - Viking Rebel - Mount Oscar
5. Race: Nacarat - Kilcrea Castle - Fistral Beach
6. Race: Soldatino - Ultimate - Toubab
7. Race: Oracle Des Mottes - Noun De La Thinte - Cool Friend
8. Race: Morcambe - Ballagio - Awesome Freddie

Newcastle abandoned today

Today´s N.H. meeting at Newcastle has been abandoned because of waterlogging, but all other meetings are on despite further rain. The ground will be soft to heavy all over.

All-weather racing at Southwell, Wolverhampton and Dundalk(!)

The Irish flat season opens today with an all-weather evening meeting at Dundalk. There are some huge fields, including 18 runners in each of the two bumpers that open the card. Obviously punters should be careful, with little current form to go on, although quite a few runners have been active over jumps. This applies for example to Whodoyouthink (Oliver McKiernan/ Declan McDonogh), who has been in good form over hurdles and last ran 4th behind Cheltenham favourite Dunguib.

If he can translate this form to the flat he can hardly lose the 2 mile maiden at 20.30 CET. Dermot Weld has his jumps string in good form and can possibly score twice here with Bobs Pride at 21.30 and Award Ceremony in the evening´s best race, a 7 furlongs handicap at 22.25, both with Pat Smullen aboard. An interesting ex-German runner is Sweet Wake (Noel Meade/ Shane Foley), who runs in the 10 1/2 furlongs handicap at 21.00. He has been out of form - both over jumps and on the flat - for a long time, but if anywhere near his old form must have a good chance off this rating.

The most interesting runner on a poor card this aftrnoon at Southwell is Tomintoul Star (Ruth Carr/ Andrew Elliott), who has bottom weight in the mile handicap at 15.30. A constant disappointment for Henry Cecil last year, he ran well when second over this CD for his new connections recently and can go one better now.

Best race at this evening´s Wolverhampton fixture is the 6 furlongs handicap at 18.40. Rocket Rob (Marco Botti/ Seb Sanders) finished fast when runner-up last time, but that race,like all his recent starts, was over 5 furlongs, and we prefer Thebes (Mark Johnston/ Greg Failey), well beaten here last time, but who has won twice in the past over this CD. The 9 1/2 furlongs handicap half an hour later could go to one of the two bottom weights Formidable Guest (Jeff Pearce/ Saleem Golam) and Ella Woodcock (Eric Alston/ Kieren Fox), both of whom have won twice this winter over this CD.

N.H.racing at Warwick and Thurles (Ireland)

Stamina will be at a premium today at Warwick, where the main event at 17.25 is a handicap chase over 3 1/2 miles. 7 runners here, 3 of them trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies including the top-weights Jaunty Journey with stable jockey Paddy Brennan and Naunton Brook with son Sam; both ran badly last time but the stable is now in better form and both of them should get the trip.

That could be a problem for form horses Notabotheronme (Philip Hobbs/ Richrd Johnson) and Kildonnan (Jim Old/ Jason Maguire), both stepping up in distance. One of the unluckiest losers of the season so far was Court in Motion (Emma Lavelle/ Jack Doyle), who stumbled at the last when 10 lengths clear at Exeter last time, he can gain compensation in the novice hurdle at 15.10. Peveril (Nicky Henderson/ David Bass), a CD winner last time, is the main danger. There could well be a German-bred winner of the 4yo hurdle at 15.40; Fin Vin de Leu (Charlie Mann/ Daryl Jacob) is the form choice here, after running-up in good company at Sandown, while Double Handful (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) is an interesting newcomer. Last year, when trained by Michael Figge, he led for a long way in the German Derby. Another ex-German with chances is Federstar (Milton Harris/ Charlie Poste) in the handicap hurdle at 17.55.

Cheltenham and Aintree clues could be found today in Ireland, where the main event at Thurles is the Grade Two novice chase over 2 1/2 miles at 15.20. An Cathaoir Mor (Harry de Bromhead/ David Casey) is the class act here and can defeat Kempes (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) and Jagoes Mills (Tom O´Leary/ Davy Russell). The Cashel Chase over 2 1/4 miles at 15.45 is another good race. Three of the 7 runners have Grand National entries and it could lie between Dooneys Gate (Mullins/ Walsh) and Conna Castle (JJ and PF Mangan).

Sandown off, Warwick on

Today´s N.H. meeting at Sandown has been abandoned, but Warwick goes ahead after an early morning inspection. The ground will be heavy. with more snow in N. England and Scotland, and heavy rain in the south, there could well be problems with tomorrow´s fixtures, although the main meeting at Kempton is apparently safe.

Dubai Racing Carnival

The Dubai Racing Carnival goes into its penultimate meeting today and the main feature is the Group Three Balanchine for fillies and mares over 9 furlongs on turf at 18.45 CET. The obvious favourite here is Aspectoflove (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori), who was a close second in the Cape Verdi here with several of these behind, but Zirconeum (Mike de Kock/ Kevin Shea), badly hampered on that occasion, and Deem (Jerry Barton/ Olivier Peslier) could be dangerous.

The UA Oaks at 17.25 is also virtually a re-run of a race run earlier at the meeting- the UAE 1,000 Guineas, in which Godolphin´s Siyaadah (Ahmed Ajtebi) came with a tremendous burst of speed to win at 50-1. She can prove today that that was no fluke, although de Kock` s Raihana (Christophe Soumillon)- hot favourite then- should run better this time.

The main German interest today will be in the DRC Gold Cup over 2 miles on turf at 19.20, in which Manfred Hofer´s Titurel (Peslier) attempts to make up for a rather unlucky run last week. However in our vw today´s distance is much more suitabl and we expect him to finish in th mony. The obvious dangers are the 4 runners from the Saeed bin Suroor stable,of which Age of Reason (Dettori) and Whispering Gallery (Ted Durcan) look the best. The other German-trained entry today Abbashiva is a non-runner.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Marinous - Captain Webb - Kal Barg
2. Race: Escape Route - So Shiny - Alo Pura
3. Race: Meeriss - Mr Brock - Trois Rois
4. Race: Talenta - Mensajera De La Luz - Raihana
5. Race: Midshipman - Swift Gift - Olympic Election
6. Race: Aspectoflove - Zirconeum - Deem
7. Race: Whispering Gallery - Age Of Reason - Titurel
8. Race: Sovereign Remedy - Raise Your Heart - Swop

All-weather racing at Southwell and Kempton

Today´s all-weather racing, at Southwell this afternoon and Kempton this evening, is at a very low level. Only tha very last two races this evening are better than class 5. The 1 1/2 mile handicap at 21.40 CET at Kempton is easily the best race, and seems to lie between King´s Salute (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) and King Olav (Tony Carroll/ Luke Morris), although Baylini (Jacqui Doyle / Hayley Turner) is also not out of it.

We would like to tip one-time German group winner Donaldson (Jonjo O´Neill/ George Baker), but his recent performances have been just awful. The 3yo handicap over a mile here at 22.10 is also quite interesting. On recent form, Red Yarn (Gary Moore/ George Baker) and Pastello (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) are the obvious selections, but beware of Azlak (Clive Brittain/ Martin Dwyer). This one was not in the first 5 in 4 outings last year, but the stable is in cracking form and he could be a blot on the handocap off this rating.

At Southwell there are some small fields and few races look punter-friendly. Darryll Holland might possibly win the two class 5 handicaps, over 2 miles at 16.15 with oldtimer and course specialist Sue Lamyman´s Victory Quest, and over 6 furlongs at 17.20 with Kevin Ryan´s Peter´s Gift.

N.H. racing at Huntingdon and Thurles (Ireland)

Nicky Henderson launches another strong attack today, this time at Huntingdon. He starts off with 2 runners in the mares novice hurdle at 15.00 CET and both Ryde Park (Barry Geraghty) and Lady Rhinestone (Tony McCoy) should be involved, although the latter is making her debut over sticks here. His chances are even better in the novice chase at 16.05, where You´re the Top (Geraghty) and Tanks for That (McCoy) should outclass their 2 opponents.

He can also take the main event, the Sidney Banks Memorial at 16.35 with Master of the Hall (although Paul Nicholls´ The MInack looks a big threat here) and the handicap chase at 17.10 with Zanzibar Boy, both partnered by Geraghty.
At Thurles the main feature is the Grade Two novice hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 14.55. This looks quite tricky, as Premier Victory (Tom Hogan/ John Cullen), arguably the best horse in the field of 8, has not run for some time and probably would not want the going too soft. Under the circumstances we prefer Willie Mullins´ pair Quadrillon (Ruby Walsh) and Kerb Appeal (Paul Townend), especially the latter, who is moving up in grade here but was a very easy winner last week at Navan. However Ruby fares here, he should win the opening maiden hurdle at 14.25 on Tony Martin´s Siberian Tiger.

Ayr abandoned

Today´s N.H. meeting at Ayr has been abandoned because the ground is frozen. With cold weathe and snow continuing in N. England and Scotland, and very wet weather in the south, there could still be more problems to come, and tomorrow´s meeting at Sandown is looking doubtful, as the track is waterlogged in places. However officials are optimistic that the big meeting in Saturday at Kempton (Racing Post Chase) will go ahead.

German runners in France today

Today is the penultimate fixture of the Cagnes sur mer winter meeting and there are more German runners engaged at the Riviera track. Werner Baltromei, who has had an excellent meeting, runs Amuse Gueule (Yann Lerner) under the Perruchot name in the 3400 metres claiming race at 14.05. He won here last week and should win again, but will be at a very short price.

There are 2 German runners in the mile handicap at 16.40, Part of Pentire (Baltromei/ Dominique Boeuf) and Daudet (Hans Blume/ Gaetan Masure), both runners-up here last time. They could both be in the money again, but with 18 runners, this is a very open race, as is the next division at 17.10, also with a field of 18. Lasse (Pavel Vovcenko/ Davy Bonilla), running in the popular colours of Stall Onextwo, is the German runner here, while Royal Dignitary (David Nicholls/ Ioritz Mendizibal) is a dangerous British opponent.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: L`Impressioniste - Zibimix - Bobtail
2. Race: Amuse Gueule - Lac Majeur - Elguera Noir
3. Race: Red And White - Sixpence - Turquoise Doree
4. Race: Wango - L`Inconscient - Passing Chop
5. Race: Winner In Love - Kel Away - Princess Argenta
6. Race: Wishlad - Australian Airline - Divinisis
7. Race: Daudet - Richhill Lady - Szerelem
8. Race: Lasse - Cuando Cuanto - Loup Normand

N.H. racing at Doncaster, Ludlow and Fairyhouse (Ireland)

With temperatures rising, there should be no problems with today´s meetings over jumps, although there is still snow about in Scotland and N.Ireland, and plenty of rain is forecast for the rest of the week. Nicky Henderson and his stable jockey Barry Geraghty launch a strong attack on Doncaster´s fixture, with fancied runners in several races.

Although we expect Four Strong Winds (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy) to prove too strong at the weights for their Lark´s Lad in the opening novice hurdle at 14.30 CET, they can score with Special Envoy in the beginners chase at 15.35, Park Lane in th 4yo hurdle at 16.10 and Prince du Beury in the handicap hurdle at 17.15 - though this is a tough race with a huge field. They also run Trabolgan in the veteran´s handicap chase over 3 miles at 16.40. These events, for 10yo´s and older, are always popular and there is a really strong field here. Apart from Tramolgan, who won the Hennessy in 2005 but has only run 3 times since, the top-weights Tamarinbleu ((David Pipe/ Danny Cook) and Mister McGoldrick (Sue Smth/ Paddy Brennan) have been running in top class events. Trabolgan make an encouraging return before Christmas and if he is anywhere his old form should win this, but we also like the German-bred Pretty Star (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman), although as a son of Lando
he would not want the ground to get any softer.

Another son of Lando who needs the rain to stay away is Ostland, who runs in the handicap hurdle at 16.30 the Ludlow. The runner-up in the 2008 German Derby runs for the first time in a handicap and seems very well treated. Nicky Henderson has runners here as well and supplies the main danger with Know the Law (Andrew Tinkler), although front-tunner Marodima (Rebecca Curtis/ Mr. A. Conlan) and consistent Novikov (David Evans/ Andrew Glassonbury) also have chances in an open race. Henderson´s best chance here is Great Reason (Tinkler), runner-up to Cheltenham fancy Mille Chief last time; he meets nothing of that calibre in the maiden hurdle here at 14.50.

Ruby Walsh is in action at Fairyhouse, where his best chance would appear to be Willie Mullins´ 12yo Clear Gold, top weight in the 2 mile handicap chase at 17.10. Our best bet here is Kimberlite King (Colm Murphy/ Matt O´Connor); repetition of the form he showed when runner-up in a huge field last time should be enough for him to win the beginners chase at 16.05.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

The all-weather action today is at Lingfield this afternoon and Kempton this evening. The huge number of all-weather meetings is beginning to show, and some of the fields are very small. Only 4 line up for Lingfield´s 10 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 16.20, but all of them are last-time-out winners. Top weight Whippers Cove (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) will be expected to continue thw satble´s good run, but preference is for Rock a Doodle Do(Willie Jarvis/ Jim Crowley), who has won his last 2 races, including this CD, very easily. The 2 mile handicap at 17.25 has 8 runners, and both George Baker´s will be involved here. The trainer saddles Sinbad the Sailor (Tony Culhane), while the jockey rides Gary Moore´s Prince Charlemagne, and both of them are on the short list.

Many of the jockeys travel on to the Kempton meeting, where again there are some very small fields, with 4 running in the 3yo handicap over 1 1/2 miles at 20.30. Here again Mark Johnston and Joe Fanning team up with the top-weight Exemplary, and although he has not run since September, we expect this one to win. In the other 3yo handicap, over 7 furlongs at 21.00, the Johnson/ Fanning team run Seamster, who also has a good chance, but Clive Brittain´s Niran (Seb Sanders), who last ran in the July Stakes (!) looks a big danger.

German runner in France today

The winter meeting at Cagnes sur mer ends on Saturday and before long the main focus will move to the north of France. Today sees the first turf racing of the year in the Paris region, a N.H. meeting at Fontainebleau. From the German point of view, the main event is the Prix General General Marion, a hurdle race over 3550 metres for 4yo´s at 15.20, in which Peter Schiergen´s Karibiksturm (Paul Johnson) faces 15 opponents.

Karibiksturm is not much good on the flat but seems to be a talented hurdler and won twice in the French provinces last autumn. He must have a good chance in this company, and another German-bred Always Spring (Robert Collet/ Cyril Gombeau) looks the main danger.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Rosa D`Anjou - Buck`S Brook - Carambole
2. Race: Ginko Biloba - Edward Rabbit - Biwa
3. Race: Deusta Carnoet - Prince Wladimir - Reine Des Garennes
4. Race: Karibiksturm - Seigneur Des Bois - Always Spring
5. Race: Qualia Grandchamp - Beau Domage - Pommerol
6. Race: Kotkiti - Nicolas Du Clos - Pacifick
7. Race: Queen Zia - Rafune De Ladalka - Longue Attente
8. Race: Panda Deurie - Quitus De Thaix - Calling Home

N.H. racing at Southwell, Taunton and Fairyhouse (Ireland)

Southwell is best known as an all-weather track for flat racing, but today it stages its best jumps race of the year, a 20,000 GBP handicap hurdle over 2 1/2 miles at 17.00 CET. With 15 runners, this looks wide open. Top-weight Echo Point (Nicky Richards/ Brian Harding) appears badly handicapped, and our choice is the improving 5yo and the youngest horse in the field, Bruslini (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson).

Consistent Good Old Thyme (Dr. Newland/ Giles Hawkins) and Sir Tantallus Hawk (Alan Swinbank/ Oliver Greenall) look the main dangers. The mares novice hurdle at 16.30 is another interesting event. Banjaxed Girl (Nigel and Sam Twiston-Davies) has won 4 of her 5 starts, including here, but she has a double penalty which could life difficult; Shayaza (Steve Gollings/ Johnson) has run some decent races, but is still a maiden and as a result gets a stone, which could swing things her way.

Paul Nicholls introduces an interesting newcomer at Taunton- Sanctuaire (Ruby Walsh), who makes his British debut in the novice hurdle at 16.20 after twice running well at Auteuil. He can make the most of his weght concession from last-time-out winner Grands Crus (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore). Nicholls also rins two in th novi ces handoap hurdle at 17.20, top-weoght Royal Collongs (Walsh) and Hifghst Start (Ian Popham). The latter makes greater appal at thes weights, but the one to bat sis surely th unbaten Bothy (Brian llison/ Koth Mercr), who is being aimed at Cheltenham after this race. German-bred L´Homme de Nuit (Gary Moore/ Philip Hide), by Samum, should also run well. Finally Canni Thinkaar (Jim Best/ Scudamore), in the form of his life at the age of 9, can complete a four-timer in the 3 miles handicap hurdle at 18.20.

While Ruby Walsh flies today to England, Tony McCoy goes in the opposite direction and has two rides at the Irish meeting at Fairyhouse for his main employer JP McManus - Dr. Whizz for Tom Mullins at 15.45 and Donoughmore for Tommy Carberry half an hour later. However the maiden hurdle at 17.15 looks the most intersting race here. Both Cottage Star and Glenlo Abby are unbeaten bumper winners, while Edward O´Grady´s pair The Book Thief and Una Duce look dangerous, as does Mary´s Little Vic, caught on the line here last time out.

Lingfield (a.w.) today

The only flat racing in the U.K. today is on the all-weather track at Lingfield and we expect Mark Johnston, who won with his only runner here yesterday, to repeat this feat with Pentominium (Joe Fanning) in the mile maiden at 16.10 CET. The obvious, indeed only, danger would appear to be Sunley Spinalonga (David Elsworth/ Declan Cannon), runner-up the last twice, including this CD, while Pentominium has only run once - in a much better race on turf in September.

Best race here is the mile handicap at 16.40, in which almost any of the 9 runners could win. Top-weight Pegasus Again (Robert Mills/ Fanning) was a CD winner when last seen in December and should again hold Den´s Gift (Clive Cox/ Adam Kirby), runner-up then, but Red Somerset (Ron Hodges/ George Baker) and Trafalgar Square (Mike Attwater( David Probert) are just two of several dangers. The fillies handicap over 10 furlongs at 18.10 looks between the two top-weights Make Amends (Hodges/ Baker) and Head First (Willie Jarvis/ Probert), with slight preference for the latter.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Yemeni Princess - Cashpoint - Gordon Road
2. Race: Tuscan King - Underworld Dandy - Magic Spirit
3. Race: Pentominium - Sunley Spinalonga - In A Fortnight
4. Race: Pegasus Again - Den`S Gift - Red Somerset
5. Race: Monashee Rock - Castleburg - Lady Kent
6. Race: Muktasb - Tamino - Spoof Master
7. Race: Make Amends - Granny Mcphee - Head First

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

Today´s card at Lingfield is an additional fixture agreed last week to make up for the many recent abandonments, and could prove timely, with both jumps meetings today abandoned. John Best saddles no fewer than 4 of the 8 runners in the mile maiden at 15.25 CET and the best of them should be the appropriately-named Lingfield Bound (Marc Halford), third on his debut at this CD. However the one to beat should be Mark Johnston´s Call to Arms (Adrian Nicholls), placed on all 3 starts last year and the trainer´s only runner here today.

Billberry (Steve Williams/ Jack Mitchell) has a good CD record and won here last time out; he is moving up in grade in the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.30 but could still play a major role under bottom weight. Sherjawy (Zoe Davison/ Ross Atkinson) is another last-time-out winner who could follow up; the opposition in the 6 furlongs handicap at 17.05 does not look that strong.

Mark Johnston has sent his main jockey Joe Fanning to Wolverhampton (where racing goes ahead) to partner Ancient Times in the 9 1/2 furlongs maiden at 16.45. This one was a disappointing favourite on his debut at Southwell but should be much sharper ow. However Heading to First (Clive Brittsin/ Chris Catlin) could be a big danger having his first race since July. The Brittain stable has hit form and has another chance with the debutant Jawal (Catlin) in the 7 furlongs maiden at 18.25; the danger here is probably the well-bred Midfielder (John Gosden/ Robert Havlin). The 10yo Flighty Fellow (Brendan Powell/ Hayley Turner) is not the most consistent, but won well last time and can score again in the handicap at 17.20, while the 5 furlongs 3yo handicap here at 15.40 is the trickiest race of the day. Any of the 7 runners could win this but we have slight preference for top-weight Lewyn (Kevin Ryan/ Fergus Sweeney), a CD winner on his only start this year.

Market Rasen and Carlisle abandoned!

The N.H. meetings today at Market Rasen and Carlisle have been abandoned, but Wolverhampton goes ahead after an inspection. With the cold and wet weather forecast to continue, there are expected to be more problems this week; tomorrow´s N.H. meeting at Southwell is threatened, so is the two-day Irish fixture at Fairyhouse.

All racing in Britain and Ireland off today!

Racing today looks increasingly unlikely, with inspections now at all 3 meetings, including the all-weather fixture at Southwell, where it has been snowing heavily. Both Naas and Sedgefield have called for a second inspection.

Prospects for tomorrow´s N.H. fixtures at Carlisle and Market Rasen also look poor.

later: Sedgefield, Southwell and Naas all abandoned! No racing today in th U.K. or Ireland.

Southwell abandoned - inspections at Naas and Sedgefield

Racing today looks increasingly unlikely, with inspections now at all 3 meetings, including the all-weather fixture at Southwell, where it has been snowing heavily. Both Naas and Sedgefield have called for a second inspection. Prospects for tomorrow´s N.H. fixtures at Carlisle and Market Rasen also look poor.

later: Sedgefield, Southwell and Naas abandoned!

Southwell abandoned - inspections at Naas and Sedgefield

Racing today looks increasingly unlikely, with inspections now at all 3 meetings, including the all-weather fixture at Southwell, where it has been snowing heavily. Both Naas and Sedgefield have called for a second inspection.
Prospects for tomorrow´s N.H. fixtures at Carlisle and Market Rasen also look poor.

later: Southwell abandoned!

Sedgefield, Southwell (a.w.) and Naas (Ireland)

The best racing in Britain and Ireland today comes from Naas, where 3 Grade Two races are staged, all of whom could provide more Cheltenham clues. The novice chase over 2 1/2 miles at 16.10 CET looks at the mercy of An Cathaoir Mor (Harry de Bromhead/ David Casey), who won a Grade One race last time and despite a 7 lbs penalty for that should outclass this opposition. The novice hurdle at 16.45 looks more open and it is certainly interesting to see the unbeaten 4yo Pittoni (Charlie Byrnes/ Paul Townend) line up here. Morning Supreme (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) looks best of the older brigade, but we would not be surprised to see Grey Soldier (Gordon Elliott/ Davy Russell) run well; he is moving up in class after an easy CD maiden win last time. There are only 6 runners in the 2 mile chase at 17.15, in which we expect to see Tranquil Sea (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) defeat Scotsirish (Mullins/ Walsh), though oldtimer Mansony (Arthur Moore/ Paddy Flood) could be a danger if at his best.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Some Slam - Seeability - Blue Phase
2. Race: Take It Easee - Fen Game - Show Blessed
3. Race: An Cathaoir Mor - Tally Em Up - Taravada
4. Race: Morning Supreme - Pittoni - Coole River
5. Race: Tranquil Sea - Scotsirish - Made In Taipan
6. Race: Dolly Hall - The Flying Dustman - A New Story
7. Race: Araucaria - Shot From The Hip - Tavern Times




By comparison, the N.H. racing at Sedgefield (which must still survive an inspection if racing is to go ahead) looks very low grade. Howard Johnson and his stable jockey Denis O´Regan look the team to follow here and they have fancied runners in almost every race. Double Espresso in the novice hurdle at 15.00, Gringo in the beginners chase at 15.30, Cosmetic in the handicap hurdle at 16.00, Bay Cherry, top-weight in the stayers handicap hurdle at 17.05 and Senor Alco in the bumper at 18.10 could all win for the stable. There are only 3 runners in the novice chase at 16.35, in which the stable´s Silk Drum faces Riguez Dancer (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee) and Thumbs Up (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire). 3-horse-races over jumps are notoriously tricky, and we can easily imagine seeing Thumbs Up, who receives weight from the others and hails from a stable in great form, defy his lower rating and win this.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Double Expresso - Pyracantha - Kellystown Lad
2. Race: Gringo - Son Of Flicka - El Presidente
3. Race: Mister Fizzbomb - Cosmetic - Nightboat To Cairo
4. Race: Riguez Dancer - Silk Drum - Thumbs Up
5. Race: Sphinx - Only The Best - Magnifico
6. Race: Go On Be A Lady - Rosie All Over - Work Boy
7. Race: Nelson`S Chief - Senor Alco - Kossakstan




The all-weather card at Southwell is not inspiring, but the 1 3/4 mile handicap at 16.20 could see Calculating (Mark Usher/ Lee Newnes) and Dart (Sue Lamyman/ Robert Winston), both runners-up last time over this CD, fight out the finish.The 7 furlongs handicap at 16.55 looks more open. Joint top weights Ishiadancer (Eric Alston/ Shane Kelly) and Bel Cantor (Bill Ratcliffe/ Paul Pickard) are both last-time-out winners, but we are not sure that they can concede a stone to Mozayada (Mel Brittain/ Frannie Norton), runner-up over a mile here last time. Most interesting runner at Southwell is Mark Johnston´s 3yo filly Floridata (Joe Fanning) who makes her debut in the maiden race at 17.25. If the race were decided on pedigree she would be a certainty - she is by Fusaishi Pegasus out of German classic winner Rose of Zollern.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Clear Ice - Il Forno - Flow Chart
2. Race: Resplendent Ace - Miss Christophene - My Friend Fritz
3. Race: Calculating - Dart - Eseej
4. Race: Ishiadancer - Mozayada - Bel Cantor
5. Race: Floridita - Ceto - Tomintoul Star
6. Race: Positivity - Almahaza - Special Cuvee

» Southwell abandoned!

Inspections now at all 3 meetings!

Racing today looks increasingly unlikely, with inspections now at all 3 meetings, including the all-weather fixture at Southwell, where it has been snowing heavily.

Fairyhouse (Ireland) and Lingfield (a.w.)

Fairyhouse stages two Grade Two events today which could have a bearing on the big races to come this spring. The Bobbyjo Chase at 16.40 is named after an Irish-trained Grand National winner and today´s field has several Aintree entries, notably Dessie Hughes´ pair Black Apalachi (Roger Loughran) and Vic Venturi (Paddy Flood). However our preference is for Jim Dreaper´s smart stayer Notre Pere (Andrew Lynch), who has an Aintree entry but seems more likely to go for the Cheltenham Gold Cup. There are some smart prospects running in the 4yo hurdle at 15.35. Ailavan (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) was turned over at long odds-on last time, but his conqueror Carlito Brigante has certainly boosted the form since. Politeo (Paul Nolan/ Davy Russell) won his only start in good style and looks the main danger.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Johnnyofcourse - Slippers Percy - Empire Theatre
2. Race: Alaivan - Politeo - Big Game Hunter
3. Race: Dorset Square - Rubi Light - Conclave
4. Race: Notre Pere - Black Apalachi - Vic Venturi
5. Race: Browns Baily - Corskeagh Royale - Deal Done
6. Race: Having A Cut - Nedzer`S Return - Twice The Craic
7. Race: Day Of A Lifetime - Ross Na Righ - The Dagda




Best race on an average all-weather card at Lingfield is the mile handicap at 15.50. This looks fiercely competitive with 12 runners, most of them with good CD form. Autumn Blades (Alan Bailey/ Franny Norton) was a narrow winner here last week from Benandonner (Mike Murphy/ Barry McHugh) but the form could be reversed on these terms. The most interesting runner is top-weight Mahadee (Clive Brittain/ Neil Callan), who has been off the track since September, but who ran in several top handicaps last season and has a good a.w. record. The Clive Brittain stable has had a couple of winners this week and he could run well at a decent price.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Kirsty`S Boy - Sunrise Lyric - Tuscan King
2. Race: Banks And Braes - Blues Music - Rebel Soldier
3. Race: Benandonner - Autumn Blades - Mr Willis
4. Race: Gargano - Quinsman - Kames Park
5. Race: Officer In Command - Cupid`S Glory - December Draw
6. Race: Pippbrook Ministar - Takajan - Penrod Ballantyne
7. Race: Ivory Silk - Le Toreador - Hoh Hoh Hoh

N.H. racing at Ascot

Today´s high class card at Ascot goes ahead after an early morning inspection and there could be several Cheltenham candidates on view, notably Menorah (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), who defeated the highly-rated Bellvano last time and will be at very short odds to land the novice hurdle at 16.45 CET. The novice hurdle at 14.40 looks more open, but ex-German Sereth (Barney Curley/ Paul Moloney) must have a good chance; Finians Rainbow (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) looks the main danger. Curley and Moloney are also represented by the progressve Zabeel Palace in a very competitive handicap hurdle at 15.45; plenty of possibilkitis here, including Tasheba (Henderson/ David Bass) and ex-German El Dancer( Lucy Wadham/ Leighton Aspell), who fell over fences last time but may be more at home here. Nicky Hemderson could be in for another good day and his Burton Point (Geraghty) is taken to beat consistent Knockara Beau (George Charlton/ Jan Faltejsek) in the Grade Two Reynoldst own Chase at 15.15.

Big race here is the Grade One Ascot Chase at 16.15 over 2 3/4 miles. Only 6 runners but still quite tricky for punters. Herecomesthetruth (Paul Nicholls/ Ruby Walsh) fell last time, but is an obvious contender. Alberta´s Run (Jonjo O´Neill/ Dougie Costello) won a similar race here over slightly shorter in November, with Planet of Sound (favourite) (Hobbs/ Johnson) second and Monet´s Garden (Nicky Richards/ Geraghty) behind, while Oh Crick (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) kept on well when third to Twist Magic last time. Any of these could win, but at level weights we just prefer Planet of Sound.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Finian`S Rainbow - Sereth - Spirit Of Adjisa
2. Race: Burton Port - Knockara Beau - Pettifour
3. Race: Beshabar - Zabeel Palace - Tasheba
4. Race: Planet Of Sound - Herecomesthetruth - Albertas Run
5. Race: Menorah - Prince Buster - Born Again
6. Race: Russian Flag - I`Msingingtheblues - Panjo Bere
7. Race: Sprinter Sacre - King Of The Night - Venetian Lad

Wincanton abandoned; inspections at Haydock/ Uttoxeter

As feared, today´s meeting at Wincanton, with its important Kingwell Hurdle, has been abandoned because of frozen ground. There are also inspections still to come at Haydock and Uttoxeter. However the excellent card at Ascot is safe, and racing goes ahead there after an early morning inspection

Dubai Racing Carnival

The Meydan meting contues today with more competitiv racing, with the Group Two Al Fahidi Fort over a mile on turf at 19.00 CET as the highlight. Saeed bin Suroor has the Godolphin team in top form and they won 4 races here yesterday. They have 3 runners in this event, with Jusatenuffhumour the choice of Frankie Dettori. The main dangers are Imbongi (Mike de Kock/ Christophe Soumillon) and Premio Loco (Chris Wall/ George Baker), whom we still remember from his excellent perfomances in Germany last year.

Also familiar to local racegoers are 3 horses trained in Germany who have already run at the Carnval. Walzertraum (Manfred Hofer/ Soumillon) did best of them and finished third here a fortnight ago. He could be in the money again when he contests the 10 furlongs handicap at 17.50. Once again Godolphin provide the main threats in the shape of Firebet (Dettori) and Trois Rois (Ahmed Ajtebi). Northern Glory (Wolfgang Figge/ Karoly Kerekes) also ran respectably here last time and could be placed in the 11 furlongs handicap at 16.30. King of Rome (de Kock/ Kevin Shea), Espiritu (bin Suroor/ Dettori) and Drunken Sailor (Luca Cumani/ Kieren Fallon) are the most dangerous of the opposition here. Finally Atila Sher Danon (Waldemar Hickst/ Adrie de Vries) was very disappointing last time and needs to improve to figure in the 9 furlongs handocap at 19.35. Roman Republic is our choice here to round off another successful day for the Godolphin operation.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Al Sourour - Nesnaas - Quaolina
2. Race: Secrecy - Green Coast - Gallagher
3. Race: King Of Rome - Drunken Sailor - Espiritu
4. Race: Mrs Boss - Global City - Sir Gerry
5. Race: Firebet - Naval Officer - Walzertraum
6. Race: Eagle Mountain - Consul General - West Side Bernie
7. Race: Justenuffhumor - Bronze Cannon - Imbongi
8. Race: Don Velez - Black Eagle - Roman Republic

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

The first 5 races this afternoon at Lingfield are all class 6 races and look very difficult, with fairly large fields of very moderate and inconsistent animals, while the better races at the end of the card have only 6 runners each. Handsome Cross (Willi Musson/ Steven Donohoe) has finished runner-up on all his 3 starts this year and might be able to get his head in front in the 6 furlongs handicap at 16.35 CET.

The 3yo mile handicap at 17.10 looks more interesting, with Ginger Jack (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), Ostentation (Richard Teal/ Liam Keniry) and Marosh (Robert Cowell/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) all last-time-out winners.In fact all 3 are umbaten so far this yar nd the choice betwen them is triucky. In view of the excellent stable form, we narrowly go for the Johnston/ Fanning runner, and they can double up in the final 3yo maiden with Atlantic Tiger, a promising third on his debut over this CD. However Tajaarab (Barry and Michael Hills), with an excellent German pedigree, could well be a dangerous newcomer here.

Mark Johnston could also saddle a winner at Wolverhampton if the meeting goes ahead this evening. His Demonstration (Greg Fairley) was an easy winner last time at Southwell and can follow up on the 3yo handicap over 7 furlongs at 21.15. Otherwise we expect Hayley Turner to ride a double here on Ed Dunlop´s Coeur de Lionne in the stayers handicap at 18.45 and Michael Bell´s Binthere Dunthat in the 7 furlongs race for 3yo maiden fillies at 20.45. Clive Brittain´s Areeda (Chris Catlin), who has not run since July, looks the danger in the latter event.

N.H. racing at Sandown and Fakenham

Sandown´s card this afternoon is headed by the traditional Royal Artillery Gold Cup for amateur riders (members of the armed forces) over 3 miles at 16.20 CET. Tom George´s Kilcrea Asia should win this; he is the best horse in the field and will be ridden by one of the most experienced jockeys - Capt. Tim Edwards, who won the race last year.

The German-bred Fin Vin de Leu (Charlie Mann/ Daryl Jacob) ran a good race on his hurdles debut at Plumpton and has a good chance in the opening 4yo hurdle at 15.15. However this is quite an open race, with Drumshambo (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) having won stylishly on his debut, while among the newcomers Souter Point (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) is apparently well regarded. However the latter runs, his team- who have suffered some reverses this week- should certainly win the novice hurdle at 16.55 with the highly promising and unbeaten Oscar Whisky.

If Fakenham goes ahead, Henderson could be among the winners there as well. Both Bonikos in the beginners chase at 15.35 and the Queen´s Pipe Banner in the novice hurdle at 16.10 are likely to start favourite and both of them could score with Andrew Tinkler in the saddle.

Dubai Racing Carnival

The Meydan meeting continues with another strong card today, with the UAE 2,000 Guineas at 18.30 CET the main feature. Logically this should go to Musir (Mike de Kock/ Christophe Soumillon) who won the main trial easily from Frozen Power (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori). As the Godolphin runner is now worse off at the weights, it will be a a surprise if he can reverse the form.

The other big race here is the second round of the Al Maktoum Challenge over 9 1/2 furlongs at 19.05. This looks very open indeed. Saeed bin Suroor saddles 3 runners here, and it could be significant that Frankie Dettori rides the $ 9.7.million yearling Jalil, who has not run since the last carnival (at Nad al Sheba). However on recent form Allybar (Ahmed Ajtebi) can be preferred, while Crowded House (Brian Meehan/ Jamie Spencer), Perfect Stride (Sir Michael Stoute/ Ryan Moore) and Jet Express (Al Raihe/ Royston Ffrench), who has won his last 4 races, all at Jebel Ali, must also be considered.

The only German runner today is Titurel (Manfred Hofer/ Kieren Fallon), who runs in the 1 mile 3 furlongs handicap at 16.40. He ran an excellent race here last time, when just touched off over 1 3/4 miles, and today´s trip on tapeta may be a little on the short side. A Godolphin horse beat him last time, and this could happen again, with Emirates Champion (bin Suroor/ Dettori) our selection.

The meeting continues tomorrow when there are 3 more German-trained runners.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Vire Volte - Nirwan - Amoking
2. Race: Judd Street - Good Control - Frosty Secret
3. Race: Titurel - Emirates Champion - Hot Six
4. Race: Leahurst - Aranel - Star Crowned
5. Race: Dohasa - Sirocco Breeze - Emmrooz
6. Race: Musir - Frozen Power - Maroon Machine
7. Race: Jalil - Snaafy - Calvados Blues
8. Race: Sovereign Remedy - Perfectly - Blues Ballad

All-weather racing at Southwell and Kempton

The usual modest fare at today´s all-weather meetings, this afternoon at Southwell and this evening at Kempton. At Southwell only one of the 7 races has more than 8 runners, and that is the 5 furlongs handicap at 17.05. This looks really tricky as 9 of the 14 runners are CD winners and many of them have already met several times. For example, top-weight Where´s Reiley (David Barron/ Dean Heslop) won over this CD a week ago, with Guto (Bill Ratcliffe/ Kelly Harrison) second and First Swallow (David Brown/ Freddie Tylicki) third.

They should again be involved in the finish and at the revised weights Guto could come out on top this time. The 7 furlongs handovao at 17.40 is also quite open; top-weight Kensington (Alan McCabe/ Declan Carroll) is a distance specialist, but usually shines at the other a.w. tracks, while Young Gladiator (Julie Camacho/ Tylicki) and Whatyouwoodwishfor (Richard Fahey/ Paul Hanagan) were both easy winners here over 6 furlongs last time out.
It is quite a long way from Southwell to Kempton, but Fahey and Hanagan are making this journey today and hope to be rewarded when Ghazwah runs in the final 6 furlong handicap for 3yo´s at 21.30. The obvious danger is Duellist, representing the powerful Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning combination; both of them were easy maiden winners last time.

The other interesting race at Kempton is the fillies mile handicap at 20.00. Most attention will be on the very lightly-raced pair Island Sunset (Willie Muir/ Martin Dwyer) and One Slick Chick (Marco Botti/ Hayley Turner), both of whom won their only race last year but are coming off a long break. Andrew Balding scored twice here yesterday and perhaps his filly Perfect Secret (David Probert), despite muddled form, can be an each-way alternative to the two market leaders.

N.H. racing at Ffos Las, Kelso and Clonmel (Ireland)

There is still a doubt about today´s card at Kelso, where a second inspection will be held later, but if racing goes ahead, the most significant race of the day will be run here at 16.20 CET. This is the 2 1/4 mile hurdle race in which Zaynar (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) must give weight to his 4 opponents. The grey, unbeaten in 5 starts, should not be unduly troubled to win this, but his race must still be watched with care as he is currently joint-favourite for the Champion Hurdle.

The race is sponsored by bookmaker Victor Chandler, who is also one of the owners of Zaynar, so he has a double reason for hoping the race is on. So has his trainer, who yesterday lost one of his Champion Hurdle hopes with the announcement that Binocular will miss the rest of the season. Henderson still has the 2009 winner Punjabi, but at the moment Zaynar looks his main hope.

There should be no problems with the Welsh meeting at Ffos Las. The best event here is the novice chase at 17.20, in whic h some useful performers line up. They include the one-time smart flat horse Junior (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), and Irish hope Slash and Burn (Charlie Swan/ David Casey), but our selection is Quilinto (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore), who trotted up last time at Southwell. Swan and Casey have another chance in the second division of the novice hurdle at 15.35 with Long Strand, but Shakalakaboomboom (Henderson/ Tony McCoy) may prove stronger. The first division can go to the penalised Volador (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson).
In Ireland, there are the usual huge fields at Clonmel, but only 6 contest the best race, a 2 mile 1 furlong chase at 17.00. Quiscover Fontaine (Willie and Emmet Mullins) can take this, and Mullins can also score with Some Target (Ruby Walsh), an easy bumper winner last time, in the maiden hurdle at 15.25. There could be a German-bred winner in the beginners chase at 17.30, as both Diophas and Quartetto have chances in an open race.

German runners in France today

It is raining heavily in Cagnes today and all races will be run on the fibregrass track. Werner Baltromei, who is having a good meeting, saddles three more runners and all of them could have a chance. The consistent Tiger Village runs in the opening tiercé handicap over 2400 metres at 13.35; he seems certain to be involved, but this looks every difficult race. The same goes for Sumatra Tiger in the 1500 metres handicap at 15.40, who has gone up in the weights after winning here last time. Mariston, partnered like all of them by Dominique Boeuf, goes for the 1600 metres claimer at 16.40; he does not seem to be the most reliable of characters, but these opponents, although there are plenty of them, are very feeble.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Tiger Village - Barunner - Chalsa
2. Race: Anvers - Lunacat - Printemps D`Alsace
3. Race: A Fong - Les Pourcy - Greek Partner
4. Race: So Long Malpic - Plebeyo - Nevele Pride
5. Race: Sumatra Tiger - Sonneville - Smoking Allowed
6. Race: May Line - Leewan de l`Orme - Veyron
7. Race: Cherma - Meora - Kentish Dream
8. Race: Amuse Gueule - Paris Phil - Le Pierreux

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

There are plenty of German-breds running in Britain and Ireland today, but easily the most interesting are the three ex-Ullmann/ Schlenderhan horses saddled by Barney Curley at Lingfield this afternoon with Tom Queally in the saddle. Barney is our favourite trainer, but it is always difficult to figure out exactly where he will strike, hoqwer we shall be suprisd of he goes home wthout a winner. The superbly-bred Sure Fire in the 1 mile 5 furlong maiden at 16.00 looks the most likely winner.

He has not shown much so far, but very little is required here; French Hollow (Tim Fitzgerald/ Robert Winston), a bumper winner and beaten favourite when 4th here last time, is the obvious danger. Aviso, who won the Mehl-Mühlens-Rennen in 2007, is thrown in off a mark of 70 in the mile handicap at 17.00. He started out in the U.K. with a rating of 95, but he has been off the track since July. The case of Allanit is similar; he has been dropped from 100 to 65, but has not run since August and his British efforts have been very poor. However, if anywhere near his best, he would have an obvious chance in the 10 furlongs handicap at 17.30.

The 7 furlongs handicap at 20.10 is the best race at Kempton´s twilight meeting; this is a very open race, and cases can be made for the lightly-raced Celtic Sovereign (Mick Quinlan/ Jerry O´Dwyer), top-weight Confuchias (Jeremy Gask/ Luke Morris) and the enigmatic Dingaan ( Andrew Balding/ David Probert) among others. Otherwise there are some small fields at Kempton, and with several of ths runners meeting each other almost every week, they are not good betting races.

N.H. racing at Leicester, Musselburgh and Punchestown (Ireland)

Racing is not yet certain to go ahead at Musselburgh, as a second inspection has been called at the Scottish track. The handicap hurdles at 15.20 CET (2 1/2 miles) and 16.50 ( 2 miles) are the most interesting races, and in both cases a German-bred has top weight, First Stream (Howard Johnson/ Brian Hughes) and Los Nadis (Peter Monteith/ Ryan Mania) respectively. Both are CD winners and should run well, particularly the former, who was group class on the flat. Los Nadis must correct a poor run last time, and also faces some strong opposition, notably from Palomar (Nicky Richards/ Graham Lee) and Caravel (Howard Johnson/ Jerry O´Farrell).
At Leicester, the novice chase at 15.40 looks the most interesting event and all 8 runners have a chance. The 10yo Fighting Chance (Richard Lee/ Richard Johnson) seems finally to have found his form and can complete a hat-trick by again defeating Wheels Up (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy), runner-up to him at Newbury and now 2 lbs better off. Plum Pudding (Giles Smyly/ Liam Treadwell) was an easy winner this CD 3 weeks ago and can now beat stronger opposition in the 3 mile handicap chase at 16.10, and half an hour later Pistolet Bleu (Philip Hobbs/ McCoy) is another who can quickly follow up an easy CD win in a tougher race.
The hottest favourite of the day will be Rite of Passage (Dermot Weld/ Robbie McNamara) in the opening hurdle race at 14.55 at Punchestown. He is regarded as one of the Irish bankers for Cheltenham and it will be a shock if he is beaten here. Won in the Dark (Dabrina Harty/ Davy Russell) also looks a good thing half an hour later, although German-bred Wild Passion (Noel Meade/ Davy Condon) would be a danger if back to his best; however he has only run twice in the last 3 years so caution is advised. Deutschland (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) - despite the name, not German -, has also not run for a while, so Jessica Harrington´ s consistent mare No One Tells me (Robbie Power) is preferred in the hurdle race at 15.55. Mullins can in any case pick up a couple of races with Flat Out, ridden by nephew Emmet, at 16.25 and Allee Garde, with son Patrick in the saddle in the bumper at 17.55.

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

Following the abandonment of Folkestone´s poor N.H. card, there are now only two modest meetings in the U.K. today, all-weather racing at Southwell and over jumps at Newcastle on very testing ground. At Southwell the main event is a 7 furlongs handicap at 17.00 CET. Most of the runners are regulars here, but have been mainly racing over 6 furlongs, but top-weight Nightjar (Kevin and Amy Ryan), runner-up here last time over 6 with Ingleby Arch well behind, did win 3 times over this CD last winter and could score again today.

Bel Cantor (Bill Ratcliffe/ Kelly Harrison) and Onceuponatime (Michael Squance/ Luke Morris) finished second and third here last week, also over 6, and could take the minor places again. The mile handicap at 16.30 looks very open, but bottom-weght Trans Sonic (James Hetherton/ James Sullivan) won so easily over CD last week that he can win again under a penalty, even though this opposition looks tougher. With the stable still going great guns, Mark Johnson´s Elusive Fame (Joe Fanning) could be the danger, but German-bred Full Speed (Alan Swinbank/ Robert Winston) also looks interesting; he is having his first run on the all-weather, his first race since the summer and is running over a much shorter trip than usual. There are also two horses with good German pedigrees running in the 1 1(/2 mile handicap at 18.00. Tyrana (Ian Williams/ Steven Donohoe), by Acatenango, was only beaten a head over this CD last time, while the Monsun filly Glorybe (Colin Bealby/ Dane O´Neill), a wi nner at Cologne last June, is having her first run in Britain. However the logical selection here is Sarah´s Boy (David Pipe/ Greg Fairley), who made all to win similar race here last week very easily and can now defy a 6 lbs penalty.

Newcastle goes ahead after an early morning inspection, but the going will be very heavy. These conditions will be in favour of Sammy Spiderman (Alistair Whillans/ Brian Harding) in the 3 mile handicap chase at 17.10. The two bottom weights Tree House and Sycho Fred, both last time out winners, could be dangerous, as is Gilsland, representing the in-form team of Donald McCain and Jason Maguire. However a more likely winner for this duo is Seedless in the mares novice hurdle at 15.40; she has never yet been placed in 10 outings on the flat and over jumps, but her two fourth places could well be good enough in this very modest company. Devil´s Delight (Jimmy Moffatt/ James Smith) won for the first time after 22 poor efforts when winning under this jockey on heavy ground at Sedgefield last week and she can follow up under bottom weight in the handicap hurdle at 16.40.

Folkestone abandoned

The weather in the U.K. has taken another turn for the worse and today´s N.H. meeting at Folkestone has been abandoned because of snow. There is also an inspection at the other jumps meeting this afternoon at Newcastle. With more snow, rain or sleet forecast for the next few days, there could well be more abandonments this week.

All weather action today

The only flat racing today is the all-weather meeting at Wolverhampton. Surprisingly, the apprentice handicap over 9 1/2 furlongs at 17.10 is the "best" race on an uninspiring card. Fomidable Guest (Jeff Pearce/ R. Powell) is in good form but his two recent successes have been over much further, and perhaps CD specialist Ahlawy (Frank Sheridan/ Sean Palmer) and last-time-out winner Hannicean (Ian Williams/ David Kenny) are the two to concentrate on. There are also two handicaps for 3yo´ s on the card, over 9 1/2 furlongs at 16.40 and over a furlong shorter an hour later. This is also poor race planning and there are very small fields in both of them. In the former event top-weight Bubbly Braveheart (Alan Bailey/ Robert Winston) should win, but in the latter event we have reservations about the likely favourite Bookiesindex Girl (John Jenkins/ Shane Kelly), who has never before run here nor at this distance. Under the circumstances we prefer Miami Gator (John Weymes/ Andrew El liott), runner-up here over 7 furlongs last time.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: The Cuckoo - Shakespeare`S Son - Straboe
2. Race: Sir Edwin Landseer - Espy - Obe Gold
3. Race: Monaco Dream - Tropical Blue - Decibel
4. Race: Bubbly Braveheart - Always De One - Kathindi
5. Race: Formidable Guest - Hannicean - Johnmanderville
6. Race: Bookiesindex Girl - Miami Gator - Tamarind Hill
7. Race: Dhhamaan - Ride A White Swan - Imperial Skylight
8. Race: Divertimenti - Mr Fantozzi - Hard Ball

N.H. racing at Catterick and Plumpton

Donald McCain and Ferdy Murphy, both in good form, look the trainers to follow today at Catterick. They go head to head in the opening race at 15.20 CET, a 2 mile novice hurdle, with Empty Sky (McCain/ Jason Maguire/) and Mister Wall Street (Murphy/ Graham Lee). The latter, in receipt of 7 lbs, is the selection. The Murphy/ Lee team can also come out on top with Poker de Sivola in the novice chase over an extended 3 miles at 16.20.

He is still a maiden over fences but has run several good races in better company. German-bred Vforvictory (McCain/ Maguire) looks a promising young stayer and is the obvious danger, but Description and the unbeaten Passport Control are also not out of it. Murphy and Lee can complete a hat-trick with the consistent De Boitron in the handicap chase at 17.20; the top-weights Some Touch and Lease Lend have the best form here, but have gone up a lot in the weights, so course specialist Double Vodka (Chris Grant/ James Revely) looks the main danger. Best bet at Catterick is Oenologue (Alison Thorpe/ Richard Johnson); he was well backed when winning his first ever race a week ago at Fontwell and should be able to shrug off his penalty against this relatively weak opposition.

The main race at Plumpton is also a novice chase over an extended 3 miles at 16.00, which seems poor planning, and here there is also a small field. Giles Cross (Vic Dartnall/ Tom O´Brien) stayed on well at Chepstow last time to beat Mobaasher (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) and may be able to repeat this feat on 6 lbs worse terms. It could be the second leg of a double for the jockey, who also has good prospects on Mick Quinlan´s German-bred Evening Sunset in the 4yo hurdle at 15.00. He can hold Orzare (Gary Moore/ Philip Hide), who has a double penalty. Gary Moore should however still have a good day, as both Gee Dee Nen, with his son Josh aboard at 16.30, and Megasue (Hide) in the mares novice hurdle at 17.00 hold winning chances.

Two highlights at Cagnes sur Mer

Two listed races today at Cagnes sur Mer are the feature races of the first top card of the season. The Prix de la Californie for 3yo´s at 14.20 over 1500 metres should go to Sheikh Hamdan´ s Istimlaak (John Hammond/ Yann Lerner), an impressive winner here last time. There is a much stronger field for the Grand Prix de la Riviera Cote d´Azur over 2000 metres at 15.25, the best fibregrass race of the whole meeting. Multiple group winner Cirrus des Aigles (Corinne Barande-Barbe/ Franck Blondel) is the class act here and is using this race as a prep for a Group One in Dubai, but has to give away 3 kilos and more all round, never easy in this grade. Ex-German Sky Crusader (Narkus Nigge/ Thomas Huet) faces a stiff task in this company, but Slickly Royal (Demercastel/ Pasquier) looks a big threat at these weights.

There are no German runners in the two listed races, but several on the undercard, and we would not be surprised to see Enzio (Werner Baltromei/ Marc Lerner) in the amateur riders race at 14.50 and Noblement (Mario Hofer/ Gaetan Masure) in the mile claimer at 15.55 both run well at decent odds.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: She Say`s - Komilfo - Yosolito
2. Race: Istimlaak - Tagar Bere - Ruler Of My Heart
3. Race: Jack Junior - Enzio - Black Rose
4. Race: Cirrus des Aigles - Tangaspeed - Eire
5. Race: Fire Flyer - Val d`Espoir - Wunderkind
6. Race: Allez Bailey - Desert Ocean - Zibeling
7. Race: Douceur Nocturne - Magic Sport - Al Koun
8. Race: Miss Denmark - Flashmob - La Biriquina

Kempton (a.w.) and Navan (Ireland)

Kempton today stages the first British listed race on the flat of 2010 and the Ladybird Stakes over a mile at 16.45 CET has attracted a strong field with 12 runners. However with several of them coming off a long break and others moving up from handicaps into listed company, this looks a tricky event to bet on. The two highest-rated runners are Plum Pudding (Richard Hannon/ Richard Hughes) and Yahrab (Clive Brittain/ Neil Callan), so they have to be on the short list, along with Irish raider Six of Hearts, despite his outside draw. Spinning and Black Dahlia must also be considered. The 7 furlongs handicap here at 16.10 could go to bottom -weight Ejeed (Zoe Davison/ Ross Atkinson), who is moving up in grade but has now won twice over this CD and can complete a quick hat-trick. German-bred Kristallo (Paul Webber/ Dane O´Neill), a son of Lando, was also a CD winner last time and can follow up in the 2 mile handicap at 17.20.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Coolree Star - Little Perisher - Miss Lesley
2. Race: Brave Talk - The Great Husk - Fair Nella
3. Race: Ejeed - Ocean Legend - Cut And Thrust
4. Race: Plum Pudding - Six Of Hearts - Splinter Cell
5. Race: Follow The Dream - Sir Sandicliffe - Kristallo
6. Race: Premier Lad - Steel City Boy - Love You Louis
7. Race: The Geester - Valentino Swing - Captain Kallis




There is a good jumps card at Navan with 3 graded racs, with the Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh team strongly represented in all of them. They can take the Boyne Hurdle at 15.10 with Mourad - we do not believe that oldtimer and ex-Gold Cup winner War of Attrition can give him weight - and the novice chase at 17.25 with the unpronouceable Uimhiraceasthair. However we are not sure about their runner Shakervilz in the novice chase at 17.55, as he has little in hand of Sorcerer (Arthur Moore/ Davy Russell) on latest running, and neither of them may be able to cope with Osana (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara), who can strengthen his Cheltenham claims by winning here. Our best bet of the day here is ex-German Champus (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry), who did too much in front when caught close home last time and can defeat Cadspeed (Mullins/ Walsh) -and 22 others! -in the maiden hurdle at 16.15.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Kerb Appeal - Curling - Monastrell
2. Race: Mourad - War Of Attrition - Ninetieth Minute
3. Race: Lastoftheleaders - L`Oiseau De Feu - Peak Raider
4. Race: Cadspeed - Champus - Lucky William
5. Race: Pickapocketortwo - Toor Brook Honours - Ballyburke
6. Race: Uimhiraceathair - Orpheus Valley - Coolcashin
7. Race: Osana - Shakervilz - Major Finnegan

Exeter and Hereford

After yesterday´s excitements, today´s N.H. racing in Britain looks rather feeble, but we expect Paul Nicholls´ winning run (4 winners yesterday at Newbury´s big meeting) to continue at Exeter. He can win the listed novice hurdle at 16.00 CET with Najaf (Timmy Murphy), an unknown quantity in Britain but with smart form in France, and the handicap hurdle at 17.10 with Aldertune (Harry Skelton), a bit unlucky last time at Fontwell, while Nick Scholfield partners debutant Sunwise in the maiden hurdle at 17.40 (winner on the flat in Ireland last time out) and Rebel du Marquis in the novice hurdle at 18.10, although Wishfull Thinking (Philip Hobbs/ Giles Hawkins) looks a big danger here.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Highest Start - Ashfield`S Dream - Sir Kezbaah
2. Race: Najaf - Gifted Leader - Maggio
3. Race: Sonny Mullen - Glenwood Knight - Norwest
4. Race: Aldertune - Stagehand - Bertie May
5. Race: Sunwise - Rock Celtic - She`S On The Case
6. Race: Rebel Du Maquis - Wishfull Thinking - Moleskin




Venetia Williams is usually the trainer to follow at Hereford, her local track and for that reason we expect Noble Future (Aidan Coleman) to run well in the handicap chase at 15.20 despite uninspiring form figures. The same team also have a good chance in the maiden hurdle at 15.50 with National Obsession, when Dort Tranquile (Nicky Henderson( Tony McCoy) looks the one to beat. The most interesting race here is the mares novice hurdle at 16.25. Kerada (Henderson/ McCoy), Cobblers Queen (Henry Daly/ William Biddick) and Chili Rose (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) have all shown talent and should fight out the finish.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Roaming West - Canni Thinkaar - Paradise Expected
2. Race: Just Playfull - Red Rattle - Putney Bridge
3. Race: Dort Tranquille - Tzora - National Obsession
4. Race: Kerada - Chilli Rose - Cobbler`S Queen
5. Race: Hobb`S Dream - Quiet Bob - Nebeltau
6. Race: Thievery - Normandy Landings - Star Galaxy
7. Race: Letham Island - Bosamcliff - Norman Beckett

Warwick, Ayr and Gowran Park (Ireland)

Obviously all todays headlines belong at Newbury but there are other good N.H. races today, including a Cheltenham favourite at Warwick. This is Long Run (Nicky Henderson/ Sam Waley-Cohen) who runs in the Kingmaker Novice chase at 15.15 at Warwick. He had smart form in France and was an impressive winner on his British debut at Kempton. However his jumping was far from perfect. while today´s trip seems on the sharp side, so it will not be the greatest of shocks if he cannot hold Take the Breeze (Paul Nicholls/ Harry Skelton), who goes especially well for this jockey. Nicholls also runs Forest Pennant (Christian Williams) in the novice chase at 14.45, but we hope that German-bred Sullumo (Charlie Mann/ Sam Thomas) can outgun him here. Another German-bred with chances here is Victorias Groom (Lucy Wadham/ Leighton Aspell) in the handicap chase at 16.20.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Forest Pennant - Sullumo - Flight Leader
2. Race: Long Run - Take The Breeze - King Edmund
3. Race: Winterwood - Sonny Mullen - Kristoffersen
4. Race: Victorias Groom - Heathcote - Super Formen
5. Race: Kennel Hill - Peveril - Bescot Springs
6. Race: Home She Goes - Troubletimestwo - Galoshes




At Ayr, where racing goes ahead after two inspections, the best event is the handicap chase at 15.40 where the smart Skippers Brig (Nicky Richards/ Brian Harding) has top weight to carry. Ballabriggs (Donald McCain/ Graham Lee), an easy winner last time at Catterick despite mistakes, is the obvious danger, but we also expect Himalayan Trail (Sue Smith/ Tjade Collier) to run well over a very light weight. Rookie trainer Rose Dobbin is being very cautious wíth her runners, but her Mirage Dore (Keith Renwick) can take the novice chase at 15.10 at the main expense of`Gansey (Sue Smith/ Richard McGrath), who fell last time but had good form previously.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Edge Of Town - Club Class - Snow Wizard
2. Race: Mirage Dore - Gansey - Mr Woods
3. Race: Ballabriggs - Skippers Brig - Craiglands
4. Race: Justtheoneforyou - Ocarina - Sammy Spiderman
5. Race: Mister Marker - Berwick Law - Time Out
6. Race: Charingworth - Stormin Exit - Le Roi Rouge
7. Race: High Stand Lad - Bamby - Sirkeel




In Ireland, there are two Grade Two races at Gowran Park, both with very small fields. Despote that. both look quite tricky. We expect Muirhead (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry) to take advantage of the weight concessions and win the Trial Hurdle at 15.35 from Jumbo Rio (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) and German-bred Noble Prince (Paul Nolan/ Aidan Cawley), while in the 2 1/2 mile chase at 16.10 Glenfinn Captain (Tom Taaffe/ Mark Walsh) may be able to pull rank over J´y Vole (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend) and Siegemaster (Dessie Hughes/ Davy Russell).

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Capellanus - Save My Blushes - Point Of Light
2. Race: Oscar Time - Binocular - Ballyvoile
3. Race: Muirhead - Jumbo Rio - Noble Prince
4. Race: J`Y Vole - Siegemaster - Watson Lake
5. Race: Prudent Honour - Chiraaz - Borolee
6. Race: Chasing Cars - P`Tit Fute - Otay Kawn
7. Race: Primroseandblue - Portrait King - Sheer Genius

Totesport Trophy and rest of Newbury

The Totesport Trophy handicap hurdle at 16.05 CET is one of the biggest betting races of the year and looks like being another bookies benefit, with at last half of the 24-strong field having already been heavily backed. The 3 trainers who have the best historical record here are Nicky Henderson, who now has 4 runners, Gary Moore, who has won the last two runnings and has 2 entries, and David Pipe with 3. All their runners deserve respect, notably Spirit River, the choice of Henderson´s stable jockey Barry Geraghty, German-bred Fairyland (Henderson/ Felix de Files), Stravinsky Dance (Henderson/ Robbie Killoran), Harry Tricker (Moore/ Andrew Glassonbury), Numide (Moore/ Philip Hide), Ronaldo des Mottes (Pipe/ Timmy Murphy) and Mamlook (Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) - although the last-named seems to be more of an Ascot specialist. Paul Nicholls and Jonjo O´Neill have not shone in this race, but their runners Takeroc (Ruby Walsh) and Get me out of Here (Tony McCoy) respectively must be considered, especially the latter, who is still unbeaten. Others to consider are Manyriverstocross (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), Any Given Day (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire)- from a stable in red-hot form- Irish hope Arch Rebel (Noel Meade Davy Condon) and another German-bred Oldrik (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson). We have now mentioned 13 runners, but the race is so difficult that quite possibly none of them will be placed! For those who cannot resist a bet, our 3 against the field are Stravinsky Dance, Get me out of Here amd Anygivenday, wth Oldrik the best outsider.

2 more very tricky races are the 3 mile handicap hurdle at 15.00 and the concluding Grade Two bumper at 17.45, in which 7 of the 11 runners are last-time-out winners. In the former event German-bred Fredo (Ian Williams/ Jason Maguire) is moving up in trip, but must have a squeak. It could be a good day for German-breds and Bellvano (Henderson/ Geraghty) is another one who could star. He runs in the novice hurdle at 17.15 and has Tito Bustillo (Nicholls/ Walsh) to beat.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Diamond Harry - Inchidaly Rock - Bensalem
2. Race: Alfie Sherrin - So Now - Tarateeno
3. Race: Denman - Air Force One - Tricky Trickster
4. Race: Spirit River - Harry Tricker - Ronaldo des Mottes
5. Race: Master Minded - Voy Por Ustedes - Mahogany Blaze
6. Race: Bellvano - Tito Bustillo - Gus Macrae
7. Race: Al Ferof - Made In Time - Dragon`S Roost

Super Saturday at Newbury with Denman and Master Minded

Paul Nicholls has the 3 top-rated chasers in his yard, and two of them run their pre-Cheltenham trials at Newbury´s top-class card this afternoon. Denman (Tony McCoy) runs in the Aon Chase over 3 miles at 15.30 CET, while Master Minded (Ruby Walsh) goes for the Game Spiriut Chase over an extended 2 miles at 16.40. They each won these Grade Two chases in 2008 before going on to Cheltenham success. HGowever there the similarities end, as Denman is out to improve his already sensational record (unbeaten at this track in 5 starts, and winner of 14 of 18 career starts) and looks as unbeatable as a runner in a 3 mile chase can be, while Master Minded is on a recovery mission after his sensational defeat last time at Cheltenham. After that race he was found to be suffering from a cracked rib, so there as to be a slight question mark today. He meets old rival Voy por Ustedes (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who was runner-up to him here 2 years ago and again at Cheltenham, but defeat ed him over 2 1/2 miles at Aintree. Voy por Ustedes, who runs best left-handed, is a clear threat today and in our view so could be Fix the Rib (Gary Moore/ Tony McCoy), who fell last time but before that won 5 out of 6 and is a very promising young chaser over this trio; he also receives a handy weight allowance from the top two. If Master Minded is back to his best, he will win, but he does not appeal as a good bet at the likely odds-on.

Neither is Denman a good bet, for the simple reason that he is likely to start at a crazy price. However it wil be the shock of the season if he gets beaten here. Ruby Walsh is apparently slightly disgruntled that he does not partner Denman, who is entrusted to McCoy, who will be his partner in the Gold Cup, where Ruby understandably rides Kauto Star. However the decision to put his Cheltenham jockey up on Denman is logical. Walsh now partners stable companion Tricky Trickster, who is apparently Nicholls´ main Grand National hope. He could follow Denman home, although on ratings the German-bred Air Force One (Charlie Mann/ Paul Moloney) is the second best runner in the field of 6. However the son of Lando has been off for 10 months with various problems and is unlikely to be sharp enough today.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Diamond Harry - Inchidaly Rock - Bensalem
2. Race: Alfie Sherrin - So Now - Tarateeno
3. Race: Denman - Air Force One - Tricky Trickster
4. Race: Spirit River - Harry Tricker - Ronaldo des Mottes
5. Race: Master Minded - Voy Por Ustedes - Mahogany Blaze
6. Race: Bellvano - Tito Bustillo - Gus Macrae
7. Race: Al Ferof - Made In Time - Dragon`S Roost

All-weather racing at Southwell and Wolverhampton

Today´s all-weather tracks are Southwell in the afternoon and Wolvethampton (twilight meeting).´There are some very small fields at Southwell, including a match for the 3yo mile handicap at 16.30 CET, theoretically the best race on the card. Doctor Zhivago (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) was the easy winner of his only start, a maiden over this CD in early December, and looks capable of better things; he should not be troubled to defeat his sole opponent Purple Gallery ( Stan Moore/ Hayley Turner). Stan Moore can gain compensation with Maoi Chinn Tire (Ross Atkinson) who can defy top-weight in the 3yo handicap over 6 furlongs at 14.45, while Johnston and Fanning can possibly complete a double with the debutant Rubi Dia in the maiden race at 17.05.

By far the best flat race today is the 6 furlons handovap at Wolverhampton at 19.45. 7 of th 9 runners are CD winners amd almost any of them could win. Tourist (Derek Shaw/ Jimmy Quinn) has won both his starts this year in good style, but Shifting Star (Walter Swinburn/ Shane Kelly) and Flowing Cape (Reg Hollinshead/ Paul Pickatd) both meet him now on much better terms. Bajan Tryst (Kevin Ryan/ Neil Callan) came back from a break to win here very easily a fortnight ago and is the selection, although anything Mark Johnston sends out must be considered and he runs Thebes (Greg Fairley) here.

N.H. racing at Bangor and Kempton (both on!)

easily the most interesting race of the day will be the novice hurdle over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 15.35 CET at Kempton. Nicky Henderson´s Quantitativeeasing (Tony McCoy) is a class act, having won all his 3 starts with the greatest of ease, but faces stern opposition here from The Betchworth Kid (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who was group class on the flat and has also shown talent over hurdles.

Phidippides (Evan Williams/ Paul Moloney) and Tocca Ferro (Emma Lavelle/ Jack Doyle) were both easy last-time-out winners but will probably have to be content with a minor placing behind the big two, who are likely to be Cheltenham-bound after this. The graduation chase here at 16.45 looks a match between Big Fella Thanks (Paul Nicholls/Ruby Walsh), who possbly needs further, and Duc de Regniere (Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), who has a good record here, and the latter´s team could finish off a good day by taking the 3 mile handicap chase at 17.20 with Polyfast, who won here over shorter at Christmas and looks the type to improve further.

At Bangor, the most interesting runner is the German-bred Foreman. Now a 12yo, he was top class in younger days and if anything is left of his old ability should not be troubled to win the hunter chase at 17.30 for Jonjo O´Neill and Alan Berry. It is certainly unusual to see German-bred half-brothers run in a British race, but that is the case in the handicap chase at 15.10, in which Peppertree Lane, now trained by Rebecca Curtis and amateur-ridden, must give a lot of weight to Salontyre (Bernard Llewellyn/ Isabell Tompsett) who slipped up on the flat when still going well last time. Prince Sabaah (Venetia Williams/ Sam Thomas) is a danger to both. Over Sixty (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson) should not be troubled to win the mares novice chase at 15.15 despite a double penalty, while otherwise it could pay to follow Donald McCain and his stable jockey Jason Maguire, who always do well here. We think their Will be Done, a useful chaser, can take the novice hurlde at 16.20 at the expense of Henderson´s Be There in Five (Andrew Tinkler), while Gershwinner has a chance in a very open stayers handicap chase at 16.55.

Later: good news- racing goes ahead at both Kempton and Bangor

Ayr abandoned, inspections at Bangor and Kempton

Today´s N.H. meeting at Ayr has been abandoned because of frost, and tomorrow´s meeting there is also in doubt. There are also inspections to be held at today´s other jumps meetings at Kempton (with a good card) and Bangor. With temperatures still very low all over Britain and Ireland there are certain to be more abandonments before this long winter is over.

Dubai Racing Carnival

The Dubai Racing Carnival goes into its fourth day this afternoon and the main feature is the Group Three Al Shingayha Sprint over 6 furlongs at 18.40 CET. This has attracted a strong field with several candidates being aimed at the Group Obe sprint here at the end of next month. Our Giant (Mike de Kock/ Christophe Soumillon) and Gayego (Saeed bin Suroor/ Frankie Dettori) represent the two most successful teams here and are also the class acts in the field.

However they both carry a Group One penalty, which will not be easy in this company. From the German point of view one must hope for a good performance from War Artist (James Eustace/ Olivier Peslier), winner of the Goldene Peitsche last year. He is owned by Rupert Plersch, who also runs Talenta (Antonia Cintra/ W. Blandi) in the UAE 1,000 Guineas at 18.05. She meets her conqueror in the prep race Raihana (de Kock/ Soumillon) on 6 lbs better terms, but it is still hard to see her reversing the form with that very easy winner.

For us, the most important race is the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 19.15, in which German hope Quijano (Peter Schiergen/ Andrasch Starke) has top weight. Quijano, now 8 years old, is a regular fixture here and is running at the carnival for the fourth year running. He meets his old rival Mourilyan (Herman Brown/ Ryan Moore) as well as 2008 Irish Derby winner Frozen Fire (de Kock/ Soumillon), who is expected to step up smartly on his latest disappointing form here. Quijano will doubtless run well at his favourite track, but it will not be easy.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Chaperno - Fareej - Mendip
2. Race: Green Coast - Otaared - Escape Route
3. Race: Bridge Of Gold - Record Breaker - Emerald Wilderness
4. Race: Bab Al Salam - Re Barolo - Clasp
5. Race: Raihana - Waasemah - Bikini Babe
6. Race: Gayego - War Artist - El Cambio
7. Race: Mourilyan - Quijano - Frozen Fire
8. Race: Pan River - Alazeyab - Golden Sword

German runners in France today

There is no racing in Cagnes today, but the action moves north-west to Salon de Provence, and Werner Baltromei, whose horses continúe in excellent form, has three more chances of improving his Riviera record. Manaba, a half-sister to Manduro, runs in the 2400 metres claiming race at 16.55 and must have a good each-way chance in this large field. She will be partnered by Dominique Boeuf, who could be in for a very successful afternoon. Among his other rides is the ex-Baltromei Naxon at 14.50, while another ex-stablemate Amuse Gueule will be ridden by Yann Lerner at 15.55.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Surdoue - Bougival - Qurqul
2. Race: Ridge City - Mana Kourou - Higher Ground
3. Race: Palosanto - Sablier Noir - Edtom
4. Race: Stern Dancer - Ange Du Salut - Stern Dancer
5. Race: Jazz Protegee - Kuttuna - Simplice
6. Race: Beringoer - Skipper Bleu - Nouvelle Europe
7. Race: Grand Bandit - Adostern - Elguera Noir
8. Race: Sligard - Shady Lane - Asserdoun

All-weather racing at Southwell and Kempton

With doubts about the jumps racing today, the two all-weather tracks will keep the ball rolling, although there is very little quality sport on offer this afternoon at Southwell and at the twilight meeting at Kempton. The best race at Southwell is the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.20 CET. Winners are always elusive but in this case doubly so, as Elusive Fame (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) and Elusive Warrior (Alan McCabe/ Declan Cannon) would appear to have the best chances. The latter is an absolute specialist here, having finished first or second on his last 5 starts,all over this CD, but we have marginal preference for the Mark Johnston runner in view of the excellent stable form.

At Kempton the top race is a 2 mile handicap at 20.30. The one to beat here is cklearly Alsadaa (Laura and Ian Mongan), an easy CD winner last time, but top-weight Right Stuff (Gary Moore/ George Baker), off since last summer, could be a danger, and even more so Sweetheart (Jamie Poulkton/ Neil Callan). The mare has not run on the flat since finishing in mid-field in the Cesarewitch, but 3 weeks ago won a valuable hurdle race at Ascot, an if she can reproduce her form over the sticks to the all-weather, she must have a great chance here.

Inspections at Huntingdon, Taunton; Thurles (Ireland) abandoned

With frost and snow about, there are inspections at all 3 N.H. tracks hoping to stage racing today - Huntingdon, Taunton and Thurles in Ireland. Should racing go ahead, we hope to see Paul Nicholls land a double at Taunton with Sunwise (Nick Scholfield) and Sanctuaire (Harry Skelton) in the two divisions of the maiden hurdle at 15.30 CET and 16.30 respectively. Both are making their British debuts.

The former was last seen winning on the all-weather at Dundalk in October, while the latter was placed the same month in a large field at Auteuil. Nicholls also has a live candidate in Sang Bleu for the Triumph Hurdle, and this ex-French performer lines up under Tony McCoy in the 4yo hurdle at Huntingdon at 16.10. Unfortunately Alan King´s big Triumph hope Mille Chief misses the race, but there is still serious opposition from the unbeaten Bothy (Brian Ellison/ Krith Mercer) and Stars du Granits (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman). German-bred Nicky Nutjob will need to show considerable improvement to figure in this company.

Later: the Irish meeting at Thurles, where the temperature dropped to -9 overnight, has been abandoned

German runners in France today

The Cagnes sur mer meeting continues today with several more German-trained runners. In the first race, a 1300 metres claimer for 3yo´s at 13.20, Mario Hofer´s Sturbuck (Gaetan Masure), who had no chance last week in better company, reappears at a lower level, while the German-owned Arriba Arriba (Yannick Fertillet/ Dominique Boeuf) is also expected to go well.

Boeuf also has some promising rides for Werner Baltromei - Part of Pentire in the 2000 metres claimer at 14.20, and Sumatra Tiger in the mile handicap at 16.25, both of whom have run really well here already and can be in the money again today. Best race is the conditions race for 3yo´s over 2000 metres at 14.50, which can go to the unbeaten Ucandri (Ferland/ Julien Augé). All these races are on the fibresand track, but the 2500 metres race at 13.50 is on turf. British raider Lost Soldier Three (David Nicholls/ Ioritz Mendizibal) has won his last two races here very easily, but faces much tougher opposition now. In theory he cannot finish anywhere near the Monsun mare La Boum (Robert Collet/ Thomas Huet), who has good group race form to her credit.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Sturbuck - Arrieta - La Triste Condesa
2. Race: La Boum - Rento - Rockawango
3. Race: Kandalek - Part Of Pentire - Sunniva Duke
4. Race: Ucandri - Bahamian Box - Balerina
5. Race: Salsalavie - Nummenor - I Love Loup
6. Race: Film Set - Big Save - Caerleon Wind
7. Race: Go Directa - Sumatra Tiger - Samala
8. Race: Euro Flash - Bipe The Dust - Smoking Allowed
9. Race: De Zephyr - Indian City - Salsalava

All-weather racing at Lingfield, Southwell and Kempton

3 meetings on the all-weather today, although strictly speaking Southwell´s fixture is a mixed meeting with 3 normal flat races and 3 bumpers. There are only 4 runners in the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.05 CET, but any of them could win. Old Pawan (Ann Stokell) is always dangerous over his favourite CD but wins very rarely with his trainer in the saddle, and we prefer top-weight Indian Skipper (Richard Guest/ Billy Cray), who ran on strongly when narrowly beaten at Lingfield on Saturday.

It could be significant that top N.H.jockey Timmy Murphy rides here and he can win two of the bumpers with Donald McCain´s Pie at Midnight at 16.10 and Charlie Mann´s Rebel Rebellion at 17.10. At Lingfield, Mark Johnston and Jo Fanning can continue thir good run with th unbeaten Bowmaker in the 3yo hdocap at 16.55. In the other handicap for this age group, over a mile at 17.25, our choice is Pastel Blue (Michael Bell/ Hayley Turner), who made all for a very easy CD win last time out. The most interesting runner here is Henry Cecil´s late-developing Zerzura (Charles Eddery), who has an obvious chance in the mile handicap at 15.55.

Several of the jockeys then move on to Kempton´s twilight meeting where Joe Fanning can again ride a winner when he partners Mick Channon´s hat-trick-seeking Texas Queen in the 3yo handicap over 5 furlongs at 18.40. The 10 furlongs handicap here at 19.40 looks very tricky indeed; the consistent Poyle Meg (Ralph Beckett/ Jim Crowley) won over CD when last seen two months ago and is a tentative selection.

N.H. racing at Carlisle, Ludlow and Fairyhouse (Ireland)

inspections at all 3 N.H. meetings today, but while Ludlow seems certain to go ahead, there are still slight doubts at Carlisle and at the Irish meeting at Fairyhouse. At Ludlow, the mares handicap hurdle at 16.00 CET looks very open.Consistent Roof (Alan King/ Rpbert Thornton) and Covert Mission (David Evans/ Andrew Glassonbury) should be thereabouts, while Irish raider Present Gesture (Gordon Elliott/ Tony McCoy) is an obvious threat, but we have a sneaking each-way fancy for bottom-weight Pearl (Alison Thorpe/ Johnny Farrelly), whose stable has had a couple of long-priced winners recently. "Choc" Thornton is making his comeback after injury today, and however he fares in ths race, he has a good chance of taking the handicap chase at 17.00 with Nikos Extra, very unlucky when badly hampered at Southwell on Monday, when he was hot favourite for a similar race.

Ex-Irish Noble Crusader (Richard Lee/ Oliver Greenall), who trotted up over 2 miles here on his first start for this trainer is the obvious danger. Nicky Henderson saddles two runners in the maiden hurdle an hour later, with bumper winner Benarctic, the choice of stable jockey Barry Geraghty, presumably his main chance. Divy (George Baker/ Andrew Tinkler) noted staying on well when runner-up in a big field last time, is the each-way alternative.
Should racing go ahead at Carlisle, two likely winners are Diklers Oscar (Keith and James Revely) in the novice hurdle at 15.10 and Silk Drum (Howard Johnson/ Brian Hughes) in the novice chase at 16.15. The Reveleys also have prospects with Its Teescomponents, who has won 3 of her last 5 races, in the handicap chase at 17.15, but this one has gone up a lot in the weights, so it will not be so easy this time.

On Ireland, the best race is the novice chase at 15.50. The consistent Apt Approach (Willie Mullins/ Ruby Walsh) was runner-up to the smart Roberto Goldback last time and finished 1-2 on his last 5 starts; he is just preferred to Whatuthink (Oliver McKiernan/ Davy Condon), who has running in better races. Wash can double up on Tony Martin´s Saddlers Storm, a very easy CD winner last time, in the handicap chase half an hour later.

Market Rasen and Southwell

There is quite a decent field for the 4yo hurdle at 14.30 CET at Market Rasen, but Blue Nymph (John Quinn/ Dougie Costello) scored in such good style at Doncaster last time that it will take a smart one to beat him. The novice hurdle half an hour later looks much more open. Nicky Henderson runs two here, Ranjobaie (David Bass) and Proud Presence (Tony McCoy) and anything from this yard must be respected, but Bygones of Bird (Karen McClintock/ Timmy Murphy) is the form choice here, while Teenage Kicks (Pam Sly/ Warren Marston) is a very interesting debutant.

The handicap chase at 16.30 is another open affair. Top-weight Carrickmines (Dr. Newland/ Tom Weston) is very consistent and should be at least placed, while Donald Will Do (Caroline Bailey/ Andrew Thornton) is also in good form, but very rarely wins. Perhaps McCoy can take this on Mocho from the in-form Ian Williams stable.
Southwell, which staged a jumping card yesterday, now reverts to all-weather racing with a modest programme. The best race is the 6 furlongs handicap at 16.50, which can go to Harlech Castle (Jim Boyle/ Steven Craine). He has won his last two races, both over this CD, and can complete a hat-trick; on both occasions he finished in front of Onceupontime (Michael Squance/ Luke Morris), who has won since and thus meets him on worse terms now. Barry Hills has few runners here, but he saddles top-weight Billie Jean in the 3yo handicap over 5 furlongs at 15.30 with son Michael on the saddle; they have Turf Time (Jeremy Glover/ Chris Catlin) to beat. Otherwise it could pay to follow Mark Johnston, whose current strike rate is amazing. He has two runners here: Loveinthesand in the maiden at 16.20 and Always Dixie an hour later in the mile handicap for 3yo´s, both ridden by Joe Fanning. They are clearly not the brightest stars in this huge yard but could still be able to defeat today´s modest opposition.