German runners at Cagnes-sur-mer today

The Cagnes-sur-mer meeting continues today with a very international atmosphere and runners from Germany, England, Italy and Austria. From the German pont of view, the most interesting race is the conditions event for older horses over 2000 metres at 14.35 CET, in which König Bernard (Werner Baltromei/ Dominique Boeuf) must have a good chance after his excellent run here last time. Main opposition comes from the English-trained Arlequin and Tominator and from the local hopes Villa Molitor and Tanga Speed. The 1300 metres handicap half an hour later could also result in a German victory as both Any Given Sunday (Baltromei/ Boeuf) and Asuluman (Mario and Steffi Hofer) - who ran well here last week- should be involved in the finish.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Indian Drums - Splendido - Urkanie
2. Race: Ujadil Bere - Par Cing - Cenon
3. Race: Skallet - Gorgeous Sixty - Happy Monster
4. Race: Vlatypas - Fairy Dress - Papi Fernand
5. Race: König Bernard - Villa Molitor - Querry Boy
6. Race: Asulaman - Lisselan Muse - Zizany
7. Race: Almaguer - Szerelem - Raganeyev
8. Race: Loup Normand - Constant Lover - San Al Hajar

Ayr and Wolverhampton

With Ludlow off, Ayr now stages the only jumps racing today and Donald McCain can start the ball rolling by winning the first two races, both novice hurdles, with Desert Cry and Ballabriggs at 14.15 CET and 14.45 respectively, both with Jason Maguire in the saddle. Desert Cry, who had useful flat form in France, made a pleasing debut in the U.K. when 5th of 12 to the smart Credit Swap at Leicester, whil Ballabriggs is the most interesting runner of the day. He is regarded as the stable´s main hope for the Grand National (which McCain´s father won 4 times) and the 10yo won his first hurdle race recently when scoring easily at Wincanton; despite a penalty he should follow up today, as on his excellent chasing form (including a win at the Cheltenhm Festival) he is close to unbeatable.

The other race of interest at Ayr is the 2 mile handicap chase at 16.25. Blackpool Billy (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee) is the obvious favourite here, having finished runner-up on both starts after a 2 year break, but we shall give another chance to German-bred Quicuyo (James Ewart/ Ryan Mania). Previously trained by the ill-fated Peter Monteith, he has been out of form on all recent starts but has as a consequence dropped to a very low rating. He runs his best races here, and in fact 3 of his 4 wins have come at Ayr.

The Wolverhampton card kicks off with two handicaps for amateurs, followed by a seller and a claimer - all races usually best left alone. The 3yo handicap over 9 1/2 furlongs at 16.15 has only 5 runners and should lie between Memorabilia (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning), who has won both his starts this year, including this CD, and Sir Randolf (Sylvester Kirk/ Dane O´Neill), runner-up last time at Lingfield to Aquilifer, a winner since. The Johnston/ Fanning also has a chance in the 3yo maiden at 17.50 with the well-bred debutant Falmouth Bay, but Crafty Roberto (Brian Meehan/ Shane Kelly) could have a fitness advantage here and is preferred. Broughtons Day (Willie Musson/ Chris Catlin) won yesterday at Kempton; if he turns out again for the 7 furlongs handicap at 17.20 he can land a quick 24 hour double.

Irish cracks at Punchestown today

Easily the best race in Britain and Ireland today is the Grade Two Tied Cottage Chase over 2 miles at 14.50 CET at Punchestown. The 5 runners include Ireland´s four best two-milers plus the pacemaker Changing Course. He is in the field to help Sizing Europe (Harry de Bromhead/ Andrew Lynch), winner of the Arkle at Cheltenham last March, who still has a choice of targets for this year´s Festival as it is still not clear what is his best trip.

We do not believe that he can beat Big Zeb (Colm Murphy/ Barry Geraghty) over this distance, who won this race last year en route to taking the Queen Mother Champion Chase. Willie Mullins´ pair Golden Silver (Paul Townend) and Scotsirish (Davy Condon) are smart two-milers but well held by Big Zeb. Indeed Goldensilver - who will probably finish runner-up today - has won his 6 of his last 10 races and on the other 4 always finished behind Big Zeb. There seems to be no logical reason at all why Big Zeb should not win today.

The Grade Two novice hurdle at 15.50 looks much more open. Willie Mullins again saddles two runners - Gagewell Flyer (Townend) and ex-French Earlson Gray, partnered by his nephew Emmet, who does not look good enough. Gagewell Flyer scored in good style at Naas last time, but is penalised for that success and we are nor sure that he can concede the weight to the promising Big Game Hunter (Mouse Morris/ Geraghty) and Joe Smooth (Noel Meade/ Davy Russell)

As mentioned earlier, the cross-country race, due to open the card at 14.20, has been cancelled because of frozen patches of ground.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Garde Champetre - Sizing Australia - One Cool Cookie
2. Race: Big Zeb - Sizing Europe - Golden Silver
3. Race: Rocco`S Hall - Some Target - Droim Toll
4. Race: Gagewell Flyer - Tornedo Shay - Joe Smooth
5. Race: Jetson - Harpsy Cord - Westmeath
6. Race: Lough Ferrib - Benash - Golden Sunbird
7. Race: Celtic Folklore - Steele`S Rock - Starling Lady

Hereford, Fakenham and Kempton

Nicky Henderson continues to enjoy a fine run, especially with his hurdlers, and can score an across-the-card double today with Cucumber Run (Tony McCoy) at 14.35 CET at Hereford and Line Freedom (Andrew Tinkler) 20 minutes later at Fakenham. At Hereford, we also expect Evan Williams to land a double with Williams Wishes (Paul Moloney) in the novice chase at 15.35 and Enlightenment (David Bass), top-weight in the handicap hurdle at 17.05; R de Rien Sivola (Paul Nicholls/ Harry Skelton) is a possible danger in the latter event, but has not run for 16 months, while Williams Wishes, who has won 4 of his last 5 races, appears to have only the unreliable Babysitter (Jonjo O´Neill/ McCoy) to beat.

Mainly very modest fare at Fakenham, and ex-German Agapanthus (Barney Curley/ Denis O´Regan) could finally score over hurdles after 3 very poor runs in the novice hurdle at 15.25; however All for Free (Milton Harris/ Warren Marston), an easy CD winner last time, is probably the more logical selection. Enfant du Lune (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) has not won for almost 2 years, and never over fences, but can still beat a poor field in the handicap chase at 16.55, while the much-improved Ray Mond (Neil King/ Alex Merriam) , who has won 6 of his last 7 races, including this CD last time, can keep up the good work at 15.55. Noun de la Thinte is the danger.

On the all-weather at Kempton, there are only 5 runners in the 1 1/2 miles handicap at 17.15, but it still looks tricky. We have a slight preference for top-weight Hatton Flight (Andrew Balding/ David Probert), who has not won for ages bu has usually been running against stronger opposition. Once a small stable hits form, it is often worth folowing their runners blind, and so we tip German-bred Escardo (David Bridgwater/ William Carson) in the 10 furlongs handicap at 15.15; the trainer won races at two tracks yesterday, and Escardo, although 0/19 in Britain, won 4 races earlier in Germany and should be capable of scoring off a very low rating today.

Cheltenham today

In the hope that Cheltenham goes ahead, we shall have a short look at today´s excellent Cheltenham card. This is billed as Trials Day, as it is the last meeting here before the March Festival, but, to be honest, it is unlikely that any of these runners will actually be winning here in March. However some of the main opponents to Big Bucks in the World Hurdle turn out for the Cleeve Hurdle over 3 miles at 16.35 CET, including German-bred Fair Along (Philip Hobbs/ Rhys Flint), a very game CD specialiat, the much-improved grey Grands Crus (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) and Alan King´ s Bensalem (Robert Thornton), who does not jump fences well but has been first or second in all starts over sticks. He suffered a bad attack of colic last summer and has been off the track for 9 months, but is still our selection.

The Cotswold Chase over an extended 3 miles at 15.30 see some Gold Cup hopefuls line up, notably Punchestowns (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), who however has to give away 5 lbs today. Tidal Bay (Howard Johnson/ Brian Hughes) is not very reliable, but likes it here and is a big danger, as is Neptune Collonges (Paul Nicholls/ Tony McCoy), 3rd in the 2008 Gold Cup and 4th in 2009; he has only run twice since, but if back to his best, can win this.

The Triumph Hurdle Trial for 4yo´s at 13.55 has 3 unbeaten juveniles in the line up, including German-bred Local Hero (Steve Gollings/ Tony McCoy), a most impressive winner of his starts so far. However the form of third Intention´ s win last time at Newbury looks very solid and the Tizzard hope is an obvious danger to the brother of Liquido.

McCoy can round off another successful day by also taking the novice hurdle at 16.05 on Jonjo O´Neill´s unbeaten Backspin. We could not see much of his last win at Newbury because of the fog, but what we saw looked good. Bobsworth (Henderson/ Geraghty) and Rock on Ruby (Nicholls/ Harry Skelton) are also expected to run well here.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Third Intention - Local Hero - Indian Daudaie
2. Race: Shakalakaboomboom - The Giant Bolster - Pearlysteps
3. Race: Wishfull Thinking - Noland - Calgary Bay
4. Race: Punchestowns - Tidal Bay - Neptune Collonges
5. Race: Backspin - Rock On Ruby - Bobs Worth
6. Race: Grands Crus - Bensalem - Organisateur
7. Race: Tanks For That - Dream Esteem - Eradicate

Doncaster off; further inspection at Cheltenham

Early morning inspections at today´s two top meetings at Cheltenham and Doncaster have proved inconclusive and a further inspection will be held later this morning at both tracks. Uttoxeter is certain to go ahead, but with all due respect, that is of minor importance. There are no problems reported at the Irish meeting at Fairyhouse.


Later: racing at Doncaster has been abandoned because of a frozen track

N.H. racing at Doncaster, Fontwell and Gowran Park (Ireland)

The best race of the day is the Grade Two Galmoy Hurdle over 3 miles at 14.45 at Gowran Park, in which Mourad (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend) is top-rated. Last time out he defeated Powerstation (E O´Connell/ Barry Geraghty) in a similar race at the Leopardstown Christmas meeting, and we expect him to confirm that form on 2 lbs worse terms. Jumbo Rio (Edward O´Grady/ Andrew McNamara) is another one who will relish the heavy ground, but he has never raced over this trip. The big betting race here is the Thyestes Chase, a valuable handicap over 3 miles at 15.55, with 18 runners, including the first 3 from last year- Whinston Boy (JJ Mangan/ SW Flngn), Hangovr (Conor O´Dwyer/ drin Heskin) nd top-wight Sirgemaster (Dessi Hughes/ Dby Tussell) in that order. Of these we prefer Hangover this time, but Pomme Tiepy (Mullins/ Townend) and Alpha Ridge (Paul Nolan/ Geraghty) look the two to beat on recent form. Tony McCoy travels to Fontwell for just two rides, Straw Bear (Nick Gifford) i n the beginners chase at 14.00 and Manshoor (Lucy Wadham) in the handicap hurdle at 16.50 and it would be no surprise to see them both win.

At Doncaster, the 4yo hurdle at 16.05 should lie between Empire Levant (Paul Nicholls/ Harry Skelton), 3rd in a good race at Newbury, and Franklino (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson) runner-up to the smart Local Hero over this CD. Ncholls can also take the handicap chase at 16.40 with Font (Skelton), who jumped badly last time after a break but was consistent enough before that. There are two useful flat handicappers making their hurdling debut at 14.55- Brunston (Nicky Henderson/ Andrew Tinkler) and Yorgunnabelucky (King/ Hutchinson) and one of them will probably win.

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

More very poor all-weather racing today, at Lingfield this afternoon and Wolverhampton this evening.
Willie Jarvis has his string in good form and his Aquilifer (Shane Kelly) can complete a quick course hat-trick in the 7 furlongs handicap for 3yo´s at 15.15 CET. His two previous wins were over a mile, but this trip should be no problem. The other one we like here is CD specialist Chjimes (Conor Dore/ Hayley Turner) in the 6 furlongs handicap at 15.50; he did not get a clear run when only 4th here last week. There could well be a German-bred winner at Wolverhampton as both Aviso (Barney Curley/Shane Kelly and Querido (Gary Brown/ Chris Catlin) both have chances in the 9 furlongs claimer at 18.10. Aviso, who once won the German 2,000 Guineas, has been very inconsistent in th U.K., although he has won over this CD, but Querido, not beaten far here last week, had previousy won 4 times in 5 starts over this CD; he gets 5 lbs from Aviso and is the selection. The handicap over an extended 2 miles half an hour later is the trickiest race here, even with only 6 runners.Treacle Tart (Peter Charalambous/ Adam Kirby) is unbeaten in 2 starts here, including this trip last time, while Ethics Firl (John Berry/ Frnny Norton) is also a CD winnr with a good record here. Mark Johnston´s Exemplary(Joe Fanning) has not run since October, and is moving up in distance, but if anywhere near peak fitness would be a big danger to all.

Today`s racing in the UK and Ireland

Best race of the day is the Grade Two Kinloch Brae Chase over 2 1/2 miles at 16.20 CET in Thurles (Ireland). This looks quite open, but Glencove Marina (Eoin Griffin/ Barry Geraghty) and J´ y Vole (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend), 4th and 6th respectively in the Lexus Chase at Christmas will probably have to battle it out with Jessica Harrington´ s Roberto Goldback (Robbie Power). For Bill (M Winters/Davy Russell) was a prolific winner over hurdles and has taken well to fences; she can take the Grade Three mares novice chase half an hour later, at the main expense of Willie Mullins´ two runners Blazing Tempo (Townend) and Morning Supreme (nephew Emmet Mullins).

Paul Nicholls has had rather a disappointing month, but can saddle winners at both British N.H. meetings today. He can take the novice chas at 16.50 at Warwick with the promising The Minack (Nick Scholfield) and both divisions of the novice hurdle at Ffos Las with Rangitoto (Sam Thomas) at 14.50 and Don´r Turn Bach (Harry Skelton) at 15.25. Nicky Henderson, on the other hand, is in amazing form and should win the mares novice chase here at 16.00 with Kerada (Andrew Tinkler).

Thursday at Meydan

The Dubai Racing Carnival goes into its third day on Thursday at Meydan with 7 highly competitive races. The meting so far has been dominated, aa is usually the case by Mike de Kock and Godolphin, and that should be the case again today as they have fancied runners in almost every race. The main feature is the Group Two Al Rashidiya over 9 furlongs on turf at 19.45 CET. Godolphin have 3 runners here, including Frozen Power (Mikael Barzalona), winner of the German 2,000 Guineas last year. However he has been a big diappointment since and it is easy to prefer de Kock´s Irish Game (Kevin Shea, 2nd of 20 in a South African Group One in July. Presvis (Luca Cumani/ Ryan Moore) is the obvious danger, but his main targets are later in the meeting and he may not yet be fully wound up.Godolphin´s best chance could be in the conditions race on tapeta at 19.10, where they have 5 runners including record-priced yearling Jalil (Mahmoud al Zarooni/ Ahmed Ajtebi); but here again we prefer d e Kock´ s runner Mr. Brock (Shea), who ran well enough here a fortnight ago. Another one who ran well that day was the ex-German Win for Sure and he may be able to live up to his name in the mile handicap on turf at 20.25.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Reynaldothewizard - Golden Sword - Final Drive
2. Race: Clearly Silver - Montmorency - Mariol
3. Race: Halicarnassus - Burdlaz - King Of Rome
4. Race: Opinion Poll - Age Of Reason - Whispering Gallery
5. Race: Mr Brock - Wealthy - Bronze Cannon
6. Race: Irish Flame - Presvis - Caymans
7. Race: Hujaylea - Win For Sure - Royal Revival

Huntingdon, Mussleburgh and Limerick

3 N.H. meetings today, Huntingdon in England, Musselburgh in Scotland and Limerick in Ireland. At Huntingdon, andy Turnell can win both divisions of the novice hurdle at 14.15 CET and half an hour later, with Spanish Treasure and Marching Song respectively, both partnered by Nick Scholfield. The former,a German-bred son of Black Sam Bellamy, was an easy winner at Hereford last time, while the latter was third to the useful Credit Swap.

We don´t really fancy Nicky Henderson´s runners in these two races, despite the fantastic stable form, but he can take the novice chase at 16.15 with the penalised Master of the Hall (Barry Geraghty), who appears to have only Voramar(Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson), runner-up in his last 3 races, to beat. The handicap hurdle over 3 1/4 miles at 15.45 is the best betting race today. Stow (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) is the likely favourite here after finishing second in a similar race at Chepstow last time, but we hope to see German-bred Sullumo (Charlie Mann/ Peter Toole), well behind him there, finish in front of him this time on much more suitable going.

Another German-bred we fancy today is Waldvogel (Nicky Richards/ Dougie Costello) in the second division of the novice hurdle at 15,35 at Musselburgh. He has however been off since May, so Aikman (James Ewart/ Harry Haynes), who fell in a similar race over this CD last time, is a possible alternative. Kaolak (Keith and James Reveley) was a very unlucky runner-up in the same race and he can win the first division at 14.05.

In Ireland, Willie Mullins could once again be the trainer to follow. He can take the first two races at Limerick with Aughaloor at 14.10 and Dare to Doubt half an hour later, both with Paul Townend in the saddle, while Black Empress, partnered by his son Paddy, may be good enough to win the mares flat race at 17.10 on her debut. A German-bred we like here is Stabilo (MJ McDonagh/ DG Hogan), who was runner-up this CD last time and should again be placed at least in the 2 3/4 miles handicap hurdle at 15.40.

4 meetings today

4 meetings today, but as is usual on a Tuesday, all at a very low level. At Leicester, Alan King and Choc Thornton might possibly land a double in the two divisions of the novice hurdle that open the card with Lord Liath at 14.10 CET and Invictus half an hour later. Nicky Henderson and Barry Geraghty are also possible winners of two races, with Lifestyle in the mares novice hurdle at 15.40 and Giogio Quercus in the novice chase at 16.10.

The latter fell last time out at Plumpton on his chasing debut when still looking the likely winner and has only to stay on his feet to defeat today´ s 3 opponents. For those whp like longshots, we suggest ex-German Amore Mio (Richard Phillips/ Warren Marston) in the 2 1/2 mile handicap hurdle at 17.10. He has been well beaten on all 3 starts for this trainer but has dropped to a very low rating.

Radharc na Mara (Jim Dreaper/ Richard McGrath) is a rare Irish runner at Sedgefield. She contests the maiden chase over 3 miles 3 furlongs at 14.30, but needs to step up on her Irish form to beat Silent Cliche (Howard
Johnson/ Brian Hughes). Best bet here is Charminster (Donald McCain/ Graham Lee) in the novice hurdle at 14.00.

Best race on today´s all-weather flat meeting at Southwell is the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.50. Only 6 runners, but all of them with chances. Our tentative choice is top-weight Arghanil (Kevin Ryan/ Phillip Makin), who has been running without much success in better company, but is dropped in grade here. An ex-German runner here is Batya (TB Coles/ Ian Mongan) in the mile handicap at 15.20. Her chance is difficult to assess, but this is a very poor race.

The ex-German runner with the best chance today is Der Spieler (JG Coogan/ Paul Carberry) who runs in the conditions race over hurdle at 14.25 at Navan. Since moving to Ireland, he has only won once in 12 starts but has been placed 6 times and should certainly finish in the money here. Sir des Champs (Willie Mullins/ Davy Russell), not seen out since winning at Auteuil last March, and consistent Big Game Hunter (Mouse Morris/ Adrian Heskin) are the two he has to beat. Othrwise there are huge fields at the Irish track (three times 30 runners!) and these races are best left alone.

Wetherby, Kempton and Wolverhampton

Three more low-level meetings today, over jumps at Wetherby and on the all-weather at Kempton and Wolverhampton. There are ony 4 runners in the novice chase at 15.35 CET at Wetherby, but it is still quite a tricky event. We go for Alfie Sherrin (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy), who is expected to pay his way over fences and gets 6 lbs from his main rival Glenwood Night (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire).

McCoy also has a chance on Paul Webber´s A Bridge Too Far in the novice hurdle at 16.10, but Omokoroa (McCain/ Maguire), who fell at the last when still in contention last time, is preferred, while ex-French Sweet Sugar (Ferdy Murphy/ Graham Lee), runner-up in a chase at Auteuil when last seen in June, is another danger. Another ex-French runner who could shine on his British debut is Tigre d´Aron (Howard Johnson/ Brian Hughes) in the 4yo hurdle at 13.55, where the newcomer White Diamond (Malcolm Jefferson/ James Halliday) is also a possible contender.

The best race at Kempton is the mile handicap at 16.50, which looks wide open wíth 13 runners. 10yo Jake the Snake (Tony Carroll/ Fergus Sweeney) is a CD specialist who can never be left out of calculations despite top weight, which he shares with Alhaban (Ron Harris/ Luke Morris), a good third at Lingfield last time to Brave Echo, who yesterday beat much better opposition here. McConnell (Gary Moore/ George Baker) is going for a hat-trick, while Big Bay (Jane Chappell-Hyam/ Seamus Heffernan) showed last time that he is coming back to form and must have a good chance off this rating. The fillies handicap over 11 furlongs half an hour earlier could go to the in-form Catbells (Alan Bailey/ Natasha Eaton), who won nicely last week at Wolverhampton with this jockey in the saddle. However the ex-Henry Cecil Affinity (James Given/ Franny Norton) is extremely well-bred and would have excellent prospects if at her best after a 2 months break.

The most interesting runner at Wolverhampton is German-bred Querido (Gary Brown/ Liam Keniry) in the 9 1/2 furlongs handicap at 18.35. The Acatenango gelding has won on his last 4 runs over this CD and although he has shot up the weights in consequence can score again today. We also like Rhal at 15.20 and Captivator at 17.05 here.

Cheltenham hopes at Leopardstown

Today´s Irish N.H. card at Leopardstown has some very strong fields with several of the leading Irish Cheltenham hopes on view. This applies particularly to the Irish Champion Hurdle at 15.45 CET with only 5 runners, but all very classy. Hurricane Run (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend, generally regarded as the best hurdler in the country and currently second favourite for Cheltenham, has to win this to maintain his position in the market.

He has won 8 of his last 9 starts; once he finished behind Solwhit (Charlie Byrnes/ Davy Russell), but has beaten that rival 3 times since and is expected to do so again. Stable companion Thousand Stars, ridden as usual by Katie Walsh, can pick up some nice prize-money, but Voler la Vedette and Sublimity, smart though they are, are porbably fighting it out fo fourth place.

Mullins can also win the Irish Arkle novice chase at 14.45 with Flat Out; nephew Emmet partners this one, who has won on all his 3 starts with Emmet on board, including an impressive win on his chasing debut last time. Realt Dubh (Noel Meade/ Paul Carberry), German-bred Noble Prince (Paul Nolan/ Barry Geraghty) and Saludos (Jessica Harrington) all ran in the Grade One run over this CD at the Christmas meeting. Saludos made almost all the running but fell at the last, leaving Realt Dubh to score from Noble Prince; revenge is in the air this time.

The Grade Two novice hurdle at 16.20 should go to Hidden Cyclone (Shark Hanlon/ Andrew McNamara), who after 3 wins in minor company, ran an excellent race in defeat when aclose third here in a Grade One at the Christmas meeting.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Gift Of Dgab - Day Of A Lifetime - What A Charm
2. Race: Realt Dubh - Flat Out - Saludos
3. Race: Questions Answered - Erritt Lake - Arklow Ger
4. Race: Hurricane Fly - Solwhit - Voler La Vedette
5. Race: Hidden Cyclone - Ballyhaunis - Fully Funded
6. Race: Ephorus - Ring Street Roller - Golan Guy
7. Race: Burn And Turn - Zadarska - Shrapnel

Market Rasen, Towcester and Kempton

Nicky Henderson continues to ride the crest of a wave and can land a double at Market Rasen today with Problema Tic in the novice hurdle at 14.20 CET and Be There in Five in the beginners chase an hour later, both partnered by Tony McCoy. However they will both be a very short price and German-bred Dear Sam (Steve Gollins/ Tom Scudamore) and Alderney Rover (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) respectively could be the value alternatives. Flinty Bay (Nicky Richards/ Dougie Costello), who has top weight in the handicap hurdle at 16.25, is still a maiden but has run well on all starts and can finally get off the mark today. For those who like a very speculative bet, we suggest Toulouse Express (Bob and Kenny Johnson) in the handicap chase at 15.55; this oldtimer is very inconsistent but runs his best races here and in fact won this race last year.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Problema Tic - Saint Are - Dear Sam
2. Race: Carrickmines - Lemon Silk - Stonethrower
3. Race: Be There In Five - Alderley Rover - Sergeant Pink
4. Race: You Know Yourself - Foxesbow - Quel Bruere
5. Race: Zarinski - Dormouse - Flinty Bay
6. Race: Scrum V - Friends Of Tina - Himayna




There is a poor card at Towcester and in-form runners are hard to find. Coolbeg (Tom George/ Paddy Brennan) has run well on both his starts and can take the novice hurdle at 16.05, although decent chaser Pret a Thou (J Groucott/ Harry Challoner) is an obvious danger, while ex-French Old Way (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) is a bit of an unknown quantity. Wilkliams and Coleman also have a chance with Fleur de Vassy, top-weight in the 3 mile handicap chase at 15.30, where Romney Marsh (Roger Curtis/ Hadden Frost) is the main danger.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Havingotascoobydo - Victors Serenade - Bounds And Leaps
2. Race: Kinkeel - Organiz - Duke Of Malfi
3. Race: Fleur De Vassy - Romney Marsh - Atherstone Hill
4. Race: Coolbeg - Pret A Thou - Old Way
5. Race: Chamirey - Not So Prudent - Preuty Boy
6. Race: Queenstown Lad - The Rustlin Rhino - Sovereign Spirit




Easily the best race on the all-weather meeting at Kempton is the conditions event over a mile at 16.45, but it is a tricky race to bet on as some of the runners are coming off a break and are clearly being aimed at better races later on. Beuchamp Viceroy (Ger Butler/ Eddie Ahern) is a genuine listed class peformer and is top-rated here, but he has little in hand of Suits Me (Tom Tate/ Micky Fenton) and Brave Echo (Mike Attwater/ Luke Morris). However our main fancy is Greyfriars Chorister (Mark Johnston/ Jo Fanning), whose stable is already in top form. Ex- German Promised Wings /C Gordon/ Liam Keniry( faces a stiff task on his British debut.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Dancing Welcome - Broughtons Day - Norville
2. Race: Dvinsky - Perlachy - Best Trip
3. Race: Better Self - So Is She - Beating Harmony
4. Race: Beauchamp Viceroy - Bravo Echo - Suits Me
5. Race: Prince Charlemagne - Layla`S Dancer - Aphrodisia
6. Race: Shared Moment - Avonrose - Song To The Moon

Haydock & Gowran Park off - inspection at Wincanton

First the bad news: Haydock´s high profile meeting today, featuring the Champion Hurdle Trial and Peddlers Cross has been abandoned. The Irish meeting at Gowran Park has also been abandoned. At Wincanton there is to be a second inspection later on this morning. However at the time of writing it appears amost certain that the top-class card at Ascot, featuring the Victor Chandler Chase and Master Minded, will go ahead.

Victor Chandler Chase heads star Ascot card

The Grade One Victor Chandler Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 15.25 CET at Ascot is the big race of the day and features the hot favourite for Cheltenham´s Champion Chase in Master Minded (Paul Nicholls/ Tony McCoy). The French-bred 8yo is clearly the top 2 mile chaser in training in the U.K. and it will be a shock if he is beaten. He met no fewer than 5 of these opponents in the Tingle Creek Chase at Cheltenham before Christmas - Petit Robin (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty), 2nd, Somersby (Henrietta Knight/ Hadden Frost), 3rd, I´m So Lucky (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore), 4th, Gauvain (Nick Williams/ Daryl Jacob), 5th, and Kalahari King (Ferdy Murphy), 7th, and won with such authority that it is almost impossible to imagine any of them turning the tables today. Master Minded fell on his first start for Nicholls, bit since then he has won of his 13 starts and there were legitimate excuses for his 3 defeats. Obviously some people will point to the surprising defeat last week of the same owner´s Kauto Star at Kempton, but that is surely irrelevant. We don´t like betting at odds-on, but this favourite looks impregnable. Petit Robin, who has finished well behind him on all 3 occasions they have met, can be placed again, and we also hope that German-bred Gauvain runs a bit better this time, while Nicholls´ second strong Tchico Polos (Ian Popham), who is moving up on grade, could also finish in the money.

As so often, it seems that Nicholls and Henderson will dominate proceedings throughout and it is in fact entirely possible that between them they will go through the card. The Grade Two mares hurdle at 14.50 should go to Henderson´s Carole´s Legacy (Geraghty), a thoroughly reliable mare who has won 9 of her 15 starts and finished runner-up 4 times. She has won 3 times over the trip, while her two main opponents, the unbeaten L´Accordioniste (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) and Sparky May (Paul Rodford/ Kieren Burke) are unproven at this distance.

Henderson´s Grandouet (Geraghty) has an obvious chance in the 4yo hurdle at 14.15, but carries a double penalty and may have trouble in giving the weight to Nicholls´ newcomer Plenty Pocket (Popham), another expensive French purchase by Clive Smith. Another ex-French runner who can score on his British but for Nicholls is Sire Collonges (Daryl Jacob) in the limited handicap hurdle at 5.55, but this looks a really tricky race.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Osric - Frontier Dancer - Rougham
2. Race: Grandouet - Plenty Pocket - Two Kisses
3. Race: Carole`S Legacy - L`Accordioniste - Sparky May
4. Race: Master Minded - Petit Robin - Somersby
5. Race: Soldatino - Sire Collonges - Walkon
6. Race: Breedsbreeze - Mahogany Blaze - I`M A Legend
7. Race: Poungach - Master Fiddle - No Secrets

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

The only racing left today are the low-level meetings on the all-weather at Lingfield this afternoon and Wolverhampton this evening. At Lingfield, top-weight Alternative Choice (Nick Littmoden/ George Baker) is stepping up on trip in the 2 miles handicap at 14.25, but if he stays has clearly an outstanding chance on form, having finished first or second on his last 5 starts. Lord Lansing (Elaine Burke/ Eddie Ahern) has won his last 2 starts and can complete a hat-trick in the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.05, but ex-Italian Kammamuri (Michael Wigham/ Andrea Atzeni) could be a problem. The 3yo maiden here over 5 furlongs at 15.30 should mainly concern Morermaloke (Brian Meehan/ Shane Kelly) and Pineapple Pete (Paul Cole/ Chris Catlin), while we also fancy Catlin´s mount Dichoh (Michael Madgwick/ in the mile handicap at 16.40; he has not won for ages but usually goes well here and was only just beaten last time.

Best race at Wolverhampton this evening is th 3yo handicap over 7 furlongs at 19.35, in which all 6 runners have a chance. Acclamazing (Marco Botti/ Adam Kirby) was an easy maiden winner this CD in early December and may have most to fear from Madam Mayem /Tom Dascombe/ Richard Kingscote), who scored here over 6 furlongs last time.

Catterick and Kelso off, Chepstow inspection

Today´s N.H. meetings at Catterick and Kelso (itself a reorganised fixture) have been frozen off, while there is an inspection to come at Chepstow.

Dubai Racing Carnival- second day

Another very strong card at Meydan today with maximum fields in almost all races. South African trainer Mike de Kock fields a very strong team and he and Godolphin. represented now by two trainers, can dominate throughout. Main feature is the Group Two Cape Verdi for fillies and mares over a mile on turf at 18.45 CET. de Kock saddles River Jetez, reported better than ever at the age of 8, while Godolphin´s best hope should be Aspectoflove (Frankie Dettori); however the latter is held on last year´s form here by Deem (Jerry Barton/ Olivier Peslier), who won this race in 2009 when it was run at Nad al Sheba, and she is our selection.

Godolphin has no fewer than 5 runners in the UAE 2000 Guineas Trial on tapeta at 16.50, but this could go to Zanzabar (de Kock/ Richard Hills), the trainer´s first runner for Hamdan al Maktoum.
Rupert Plersch´s War Artist, now trained by Rodolphe Collet, has a chance despite top weight in the 5 furlongs handicap at 16.10, while another horse well-known to German racegoers is Peligroso, a top 2yo for Mario Hofer but now running for Godolphin. Frankie Dettori partners him in the 10 furlongs turf hndicap at 19.20, but he may be better suited by softer ground and another Godolphin runner Simon de Montfort (Mahmoud al Zarooni/ Kieren Fallon) could take this.

The only German-trained horse expected to run at the meeting is Pavel Vovcenko´s Indomito and he makes his Dubai debut today at 15.35 in a 7 furlongs handicap on tapeta with Wayne Smith in the saddle. This distance is ideal, the draw is good, and he is well handicapped (despite top weight here), but he is expected to need today´s race. We hope he runs well, but the time to bet on him could be his next start in a fortnight´s time.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Swinging Sixties - Aamaaq - Indomito
2. Race: Effort - Terrific Challenge - War Artist
3. Race: Zanzamar - Krypton Factor - Janood
4. Race: Here To Win - Derbaas - Kingsfort
5. Race: Star Empire - Kal Barg - Haatheq
6. Race: Deem - River Jetez - Aspectoflove
7. Race: Peligroso - Simon de Montfort - Zeitoper

Taunton, Lingfield and Wolverhampton

With Ludlow and Gowran Park both abandoned/ postponed, Taunton now has the only jumps racing today in Britain and Ireland, and there are some quite useful sorts entered. This is particularly true of the novice hurdle at 14.30 CET, in which the two penalised 6yo´s Credit Swap (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) and Bermuda Boy (Paul Nicholls/ Ian Popham) both set a high standard after easy wins last time out.

We prefer the former, winner of the Cambridgeshire on the flat and highly rated by his shrewd trainer. Nicholls should in any case win the novice hurdle at 15.30 with Al Ferof (Nick Scholfield) - runner-up in last year´s Champion Bumper- and also has decent prospects in the main feature, a handicap hurdle at 16.30, in which he saddles two of the 7 runners, Sanctuaire (Daryl Jacob) and Tito Bustillo (Scholfield. However they have the two highest weights, and we give slight preference to the improving Dona (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), up in grade after winning over this CD last time. Daryl Jacob can take the handicap chase at 17.00 on Nick Williams` Golden Duck; although 11 years old, he is quite lightly raced and scored easily on his first start for this trainer.

Winter returns- Ludlow and Gowran Park off

Cold weather has returned to the U.K. and Ireland and today´s meeting at Gowran Park (including the Thyestes Chase) has been postponed to Saturday, while the Irish meeting originally scheduled for that day at Navan has been put back to next Tuesday. The overnight frost has also necessitated an inspection today at Ludlow, while there are doubts about some of the British fixures for tomorrow and Saturday.

Later: LUDLOW OFF!

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Kempton

Very modest cards at today´s two all-weather meetings, Lingfield in the afternoon and Kempton in the evening, with quite a few jockeys riding at both tracks. At Lingfield the mile race for maiden fillies at 14.55 CET could be interesting, but we expect either Bow River Arch (Jeremy Noseda/ Chris Catlin) or Lady Rosamunde (Marcus Tregoning/ Hayley Turner) to come out on top; both of them were placed on each of their starts in the autumn of last year. The five furlings handicap here at 15,30 here can go to bottom weight Estonia (Michael Squance/ Luke Morris), who lost his chance last time over CD by running very wide on the bend. Main danger is consistent Even Bolder (Eric Wheeler/ Liam Jones), placed in his last 4 races.

At Kempton, the 2 mile handicap at 20.00 is the most competitive race. Porgy (David Simcock/ Jamie Spencer) won well here last time over 1 1/2 miles but is untested at this trip. Benhego (Gary Moore/ George Baker) made a decent comeback in December after 19 months off, and has a good chance off his old form, while On Terms (Simon Dow/ Hayley Turner) last ran in a listed race at Ascot in September; she was well beaten obviously but 3 of her 4 wins have come at this distance. However our main hope is Dalhaan (Luke Dace/ Martin Lane), an easy CD winner 3 weeks ago and now 8lbs higher in the weights.

N.H. racing at Newbury and Newcastle

There will be an inspection later this morning at Newbury following overnight frost, but if racing goes ahead, there are some interesting events although some of the fields are very small. The class at today is Finians´s Rainbow (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) in the novice chase at 14.30 CET, who is ante-post favourite for the Arkle at the Cheltenham Festival. He has only two opponents - decent, but far from top class, to beat here and it will be a sensation if he fails to win. Two more possible Henderson winners, both partnered by Geraghty, are Titan de Sarti in the 4yo hurdle at 14.00 - although another ex-French horse Cedre Bleu (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) looks a big danger- and Kerala in the mares novice chase at 15.40, getting weight from her main rival Sway(Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy). Best betting race here is the 3 miles handicap chase at 16.50. German-bred Victoria´s Groom (Lucy Wadham/ Leighton Aspell) has top-weight here, although he has not won for ages and ha s failed to complete in 4 of her last 6 races. If he gets round safely, he could possibly score at a big price; for those who find that too risky, then lightly-weighted Sona Sasta (David Pipe/ Danny Cook) could be the safer option after winning 3 of his last 4 races, but facing tougher opposition this time.

The best race at Newcastle is also a 3 miles handicap chase at 5.15. Top-weight Minster Shadow (Chris Grant/ Campbell Gillies ) is 12 years old but still capable of winning in this grade. He fell last time out at Aintree, but that was a much tougher race. Caver´s Glen(AC Whillans/ Brian Harding) who won on the same Aintree card is an obvious danger, as is See You There (Lucinda Russell/ Peter Buchanan), who found 4 miles too far last time. However his team probably have a better chance with Do It for Dalkey, an easy CD winner last time, who can defy a 7lbs rise in the weights against modest opposition.

Southwell (N.H.), Folkestone (N.H.) and Wolverhampton (a.w.)

Very low-level sport at all 3 meetings today, with not a single race of more than passing interest. Of several German-breds engaged, the one with the best chance would appear to be Mamba (Chris Down(/ JM Davies) in the handicap chase at 14.30 CET at Southwell. Last time she was runner-up to Lerida (Mrs. SA Watt/ Brian Harding) at Huntingdon and meets that opponent on better terms, but Follow the Sun (Peter Niven/ Brian Hughes), an unlucky third in the same race, could be a bigger danger. Tony McCoy is in action here and can land a short-priced double for Nicky Henderson on Bear´s Affair in the novice hurdle at 15.30 and Victrix Sale in the bumper at 17.00; he also has a chance on Jonjo O´Neill´s I Can Run, Can You in the handicap hurdle at 16.30 as long as the ground is not too heavy.

The going will certainly be heavy at Folkestone, where the course has passed two inspections this morning. Quilver Tatou (Charlie Mann/ Paul Molony) was runner-up on similar ground at Lingfield last time, and the winner of that race Sunset Massini scored easily yesterday, so he can now take the novices handicap chase at 15.10.

At Wolverhampton, Piquante (Nigel Tinkler/ Hayley Turner), third at Kempton last week, can win the fillies handicap over 7 furlongs at 16.50 and another fillies handicap, half an hour later over 9 furlongs, can go to top-weight Catbells (Alan Bailey/ Natasha Eaton), who has been runner-up twice running with this apprentice on board. Kassiodor (Barney Curley/ Micky Fenton) has an excellent German pedigree, but the runners from this stable have been so incnsistent in recent weeks that one hesitates to recommend him; he runs in the maiden at 17.50.

Small fields today

Today´s 3 meetings - over jumps at Plumpton and Fakenham and on the all-weather at Wolverhampton, have some very small fields and the quality is mainly very poor, so that betting opportunities are limited. In addition the ground will be very heavy at Plumpton, where the course has passed an early morning inspection, and that is another reason for punters to be cautious.

There are 4 runners in the novice chase at 14.40 CET at Plumpton, two of whom met in a Grade Two race at Cheltenham last time, where Have you seen Me (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Tom Molloy) finished 4th of 13, while Ranjobaie (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) fell early on; the latter now gets weight and, if he stays on his feet, can win this.The handicap chase half an hour later looks quite tricky, but we expect top-weight Massini Sunset (Nick Mitchell/ Sam Clements), who won a similar race at Lingfield on heavy ground last time, to win again from course specialist Sumdancer Michael Madgwick/ Mark Goldstein) and Manmoon (Nigel Hawke/ Matt Griffiths),a CD winner last time out. German-bred Guarino (Gary and Jamie Moore) was listed class on the flat and makes his debut over hurdles at 14.10. However he has not run for ages, and as a son of Acatenango may not like the going, so is no certainty.

Tony McCoy looks the jockey to follow at Fakenham; he has winning chances on Nicky Henderson´s Silicium in the maiden hurdle at 14.55 (where Barney Curley´s ex-German Agapanthus also runs) on Lady HIght in the novice hurdle at 16.00, and can take the novice chase at 15.30 on David Pipe´s smart flat and hurdling handicapper Mamlook (gets 12 lbs from his most serious opponent Tullamore Dew) and also the handicap hurdle over 3 miles at 17.00 on Tim Vaughan´ s Loco Grande, who won a poor race last time at Folkestone but meets equally feeble opposition today.

At Wolverhampton the most interesting event is the 3yo maiden at 16.50. Art History (Mark Johnston/ Joe Fanning) shaped like a certain future winner when third on his debut, while Rojo Boy (David Elsworth/ Robert Winston), upped in trip, is also respected, but the one to beat is surely Maher (David Simcock/ Jamie Spencer), who was 6th of 12 in a much better race at Newmarket when last seen in August; that race was won by champion 2yo Frankel!
Simcock and Spencer follow up with Riot Police an hour later in the mile handicap for 3yo´s.

Ffos Las, Fairyhouse and Southwell

after yesterday´s excellent Kempton card, today´s racing is very much an anti-climax. Even the Irish racing at Fairyhouse is rather low-key, with only 4 entered in the main feature, the Grade Two Normans Grove Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at 15.15 CET. This looks at the mercy of Golden Silver (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend), who should certainly be capable of giving weight to these opponents. He has won 5 of his last 9 races, on all the other occasions finishing behind Big Zeb, probably the best 2-mile-chaser in training. The listed mares novice hurdle over 2 1/4 miles at 14.10 looks trickier. Our Girl Salley (Prunella Dobbs/ Barry Geraghty) has won her last 4 races, last time a similr event at Leopardstown, when Lonesome Dove (Charlie Swan/ David Casey) and Araucaria (Jon Kiely/ Andrew McNamara ) were well behind; they could make more of a race of it today, but more dangerous is the improved Wood Lily (Jessica Harrington/ Robbie Power), moving up in grade after an easy maiden win here last time.
The handicap hurdle at 15.40 is the best betting race at Ffos Las and almost all the 15 runners can be given a chance. Prince du Seuil (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) and lightly-raced Real Treasure (Kim Bailey/ Sean Quinlan) were both easy winners last time but have been harshly reassessed. Shinrock Hill (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) also won last time, while Sir Kezbaah (Jeremy Scott/ Nick Scholfield) was runner-up to the smart Salden Licht after a long break. An interesting outsider could be Numide (Rod Millman/ Johnny Farrelly), who is on a long losing run, but has been dropped to a nice weight. The handicap chase half an hour later is also tricky, although the field is much smaller. Very few of the runners bring decent recent form, so that one can perhaps take a chance with Tamadot (Hobbs/ Johnson), who has been off for 2 years. The alternative could be Pak Jack, who fell last time and hardly ever wins but has been running in much better company.
Our main fancy at Southwell is Powerful Presence (David O´Meara/ Joe Fanning) who can complete a quick course hat-trick in the opening mile handicap at 13.50. Strictly speaking, he should not beat Zarius (Chris Wall/ Nanna Hansen) who beat him fair and square this CD at New Year with this jockey in the saddle and is now better off at the weights. However Powerful Presence was so impressive in his last 2 wins that we expect him to go in again, and trainer and jockey can complete a double with topweight Trans Sonic in the 7 furlongs handicap at 16.35.

Betting forecast Southwell:
1. Race: Powerful Presence - Zarius - Intyre Trail
2. Race: Oh So Kool - Prince Titus - Close To The Edge
3. Race: Princess Dayna - Silk Bounty - Honkers Bonkers
4. Race: The Dukes Arch - Tivers Song - Carnac
5. Race: Kheley - Cheveyo - Pinball
6. Race: Follow The Flag - Trans Sonic - Conry
7. Race: Rhal - Local Diktator - Granny Anne

Christmas Hurdle and rest of Kempton card

the Christmas Hurdle over 2 miles at 15.25 CET is the other Grade One race carried forward from Kempton´s Boxing Day card. Although it has only 6 runners, this is a very high class event, featuring the first two from last year´s Champion Hurdle, Binocular (Nicky Henderson/ Tony McCoy) and Khyber Kim (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan). Howevr there must be a slight doubt about both of them, and we have a definite preference for Starluck (Alan Fleming/ Timmy Murphy), who finished in front of Binocular last time and also in this race last year. He loves Kempton and everything looks in place for a big race. Front-runner Overturn (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) could be a big danger. He was last seen finishing last in the Ebor Handicap in August, but he had won his 5 previous races, including the Northumberland Plate on the flat, and the Scottish Champion Hurdle and Galway Hurdle over sticks. Paul Nicholls´ improving Escort´men could also get involved in an intriguing contest.< br />
The rest of the Kempton card is very strong, with Henderson and Nicholls both fielding several likely winners. In the opening 4yo hurdle at 12,50 CET Brampour (Nicholls/ Harry Skelton) makes his hurdling debut; he has already been well-backed for Cheltenham. He was runner-up in a French listed race at Deauville last time. Henderson supplies the most dangerous opponent in A Media Luz (Barry Geraghty). In the novice chase half an hour later Henderson´ s Nadiya de la Vega, an impressive winner on his British debut, can outpoint Nicholls´ Pepe Simo (Sam Thomas), winner of his last two, including a jumpers bumper over this CD.

The handicaps have large fields and look very competitive; we like The Betchworth Kid (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) in the big hurdle race at 16.35.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Brampour - A Media Luz - Kazzene
2. Race: Nadiya De La Vega - Pepe Simo - Dee Ee Williams
3. Race: Sybarite - Chablais - The Reformer
4. Race: Skint - Samsons Son - Via Galilei
5. Race: Ursis - Polyfast - Safari Adventures
6. Race: Binocular - Starluck - Khyber Kim
7. Race: Kauto Star - Long Run - The Nightingale
8. Race: The Betchworth Kid - Palomar - Organisateur
9. Race: Mallusk - Rey Nacarado - Mohi Rahrere

Kauto Star goes for fifth King George at Kempton

Kauto Star (Paul Nicholls/ Tony McCoy) is rated the best 3 mile chaser in Britain nd Irelnd (and that means the world!)since the great Arkle and can enter the history books today by winning the King George VI Chase at Kempton at 16.00 CET for the fifth successive season- a feat never before achieved. The race s oroginlly die to be ru on Boxinf Day, but thtemeeting that dy hs to b cancelld s th trck ws snowd under. After a rainy week, the course today will be on the soft side, but that should suit Kauto Star, while several of his most dangerous opponents could have trouble in staying this distance.
On official ratings Kauto Star has 22lbs or more in hand and we cannot see him being beaten. He is normally ridden by Ruby Walsh who partnered him to his 4 previous wins here, but as he is injured, as is his deputy Noel Fehily, Tony McCoy gets the ride. Some people have suggested that his riding style is not suited to Kauto Star, but that is surely rubbish.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Brampour - A Media Luz - Kazzene
2. Race: Nadiya De La Vega - Pepe Simo - Dee Ee Williams
3. Race: Sybarite - Chablais - The Reformer
4. Race: Skint - Samsons Son - Via Galilei
5. Race: Ursis - Polyfast - Safari Adventures
6. Race: Binocular - Starluck - Khyber Kim
7. Race: Kauto Star - Long Run - The Nightingale
8. Race: The Betchworth Kid - Palomar - Organisateur
9. Race: Mallusk - Rey Nacarado - Mohi Rahrere

4 meetings today

Friday´s racing is often high class, but this is not the case today, when the jumping at Musselburgh and Huntingdon and the all-weather flat racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton are all low grade. The most interesting event at Huntingdon is the novice chase at 15.10 CET, but as so often, the race has cut up badly and there are only 4 runners, 3 of whom have not run for at least 22 months.

That makes a selection difficult, but German-bred Platin Grounds (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) is given a narrow vote over Mr. Gardner (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty). Henderson and Geraghty must also have a good chance in the novice hurdle at 14.40 with ex-French Spirit Son, last seen winning a listed race at Auteuil; Palace Jester (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy), an easy winner at Wetherby last time, is the obvious danger. Rawaaj (Donald McCain/ Henry Brooke) is much improved and won for the first time at Hereford 11 days ago. In our opinion neither the extra 7 lbs nor the longer distance will not stop him winning again in the conditional jockeys handicap hurdle at 13.40.

An interesting runner at Musselbugh is Aikman (James Ewart/ Harry Haynes) in the maiden hurdle at 13.50. After winning 3 point-to-points he made a winning debut under rules in a bumper at Ayr in June, but has not run since. He may be able to see off some decent ex-flat runners today and his team can follow up with Vosges in the 4yo hurdle at 15.20, who has only 3 modest opponents to beat. Trickier is the 3 mile handicap chase at 16.20. Isla Pearl Fisher (NM Alexander/ Paddy Aspell) was still in contention when falling at the last at Ayr last time and can gain recompense here, but top-weight Go Silver Bullet (Lucinda Russell/ Peter Buchanan) and Ballabrook (MCain/ Jason Maguire) provide some serious opposition.

Barney Curley has been very expensive to follow recently, but has a definite winning chance today with No Complaining, who has only to reproduce the form shown in his last two outings to win the first division of the 10 furlongs handicap at 16.00 at Lingfield, while the second division, half an hour later can go to top-weight Sunset Boulevard (Jim Best/ Jamie Spencer), all of whose 5 career wins have come here over 12 furlongs.

The bst race of the all-wather tday is the 6 furlongs hnicp at 18.10 t Wolvrhamptpn´s twlighit meting. Ajara (Tom Dascombe/ Richrd Kingscote) is th likly favourit, hving won 4 of his lst 5 races, all at tis track. However he is moving up in grade here, and both Jigajig (Kevin and Amy Ryan) and Methaaly (Michael Mullineaux/ Joseph Young), runners-up to him recently, are handicapped to get much closer this time, while top-weight Cardinal (Robert Cowell/ Hayley Turner) also has a chance on his best form.

Hereford, Catterick and Thurles

a full programme today with N.H. racing and Hereford and Catterick and in Ireland at Thurles, while there is flat racing on the all-weather this afternoon at Southwell and this evening at Kempton.However by far the best racing is in in Dubai, where the International Racing Carnival starts today at Meydan. At Hereford, Paul Nicholls introduces a couple of British debutants, whose form is not easy to decipher, but are quite probably capable of winning first time out. They are Minella Stars (Harry Skelton), who had good Irish point-.to-point form, in the maiden hurdle at 15.10 CT, and Symphonick (Nick Scholfield), a winnet in the French provinces, in the handicap chase at 16.40. The ground is expected to ride very heavy, and we expect Hobb´s Dream (Neil Mulholland/ Mick Quinlan), who won a similar race at Lingfield last week, to score again, while Silver Footnote (Emma Lavelle/ Sam Thomas) is another who can follow up a recent win at 1.40. Ex-German group winner Fight Club (Bern ard Llewellyn/ Isabell Tompsett) has been very disappointing so far in England, but we give him another chance in the handicap hurdle at 17.10.

There are some big fields at Catterick, where the main event is the North Yorkshire Grand National at 15.20, a 3 3/4 mile handicap chase with 14 runners and very tricky. The 3 we like best are top-weight Rambling Minster (Keith and James Reveley), now reaching the veteran stage but clearly the class act in this field, course specialist Star Beat (Kate Walton/ Richard McGrath) and Zitenka (Tim Easterby/ James Hallidy), now better off at the weights. The Reveleys can also score with Heavenly Chorus, a recent CD winner, in the handicap at 16.20, but we would also not be surprised to see Overbranch (Malcolm Jefferson/ Halliday) run well here.

There are also big fields at Thurles, where Willie Mullins can land a double with Bishopsfurze (Paul Townend) at 15.25 and Lios a Choill (Paddy Mullins) half an hour later, both beaten favourites last time. Best bet here is For Bill (M. Winters/ Davy Russell) in the mares beginners chase at 14.25. She is a smart hurdler, winner of 6 of her 8 starts, and should also make the grade over fences.

Start of Dubai International Racing Carnival at Meydan

the Dubai International Racing Carnival starts today with 8 races at the new Meydan racecourse, the first of which is for Arab-breds and the rest for thoroughbreds. 4 races are on the tapeta track and 3 on turf. As there is no betting in Dubai, all bets will be settled at the British bookmakers industry prices. Today´s races are very competitive but difficult to bet on, as most of the runners are coming off a break and are being prepared for more valuable races later in the meeting. It might be a good idea to watch the first few races to see which trainers already have their strings in good form.

In the UAE1,000 Guineas Trial at 16.15, the South African trainers Mike de Kock and Herman Brown each have 3 runners; it would appear that Mahbooba (Christophe Soumillon) and Chocolicious (Ryan Moore) are respectively their best chances. If they go well, we suggest that Happy Valley (de Kock/ Soumillon) at 18.05 and Bankable (Brown/ Moore) at 18.40 are worth support.

Today´s main feature is the first round of the al Maktoum Challenge, a Group Three race over a mile at 19.15. This has a very strong entry with 14 runners (and 4 reserves). Godolphin have taken aim at this race with 6 runners, 3 trained by Saeed bin Suroor and 3 by Mahmoud al Zarooni, including Frozen Power (Royston Ffrench), winner of last year´s German 2,000 Guineas but a disappointment since. Mendip (Saeed/ Frankie Dettori) looks their best hope, although he has not run since finishing third in last year´s UAE Derby. Mike de Kock´ s Imongi (Soumillon) looks a big danger, but ex-German Win for Sure (Xavier Nakkachdji/ Gregory Benoist) needs to improve to play a prominent role in this company.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Dynamite (A) - Kandar Du Falgas (A) - Nirwan (A)
2. Race: Najoum - Energia Cintilante - Chocolicious
3. Race: Atlantic Brave - Hujaylea - Il Grande Maurizio
4. Race: Rochdale - Rock N Roll Ransom - Meeriss
5. Race: Equiparada - Trois Rois - Wajir
6. Race: Alo Pura - Bankable - Dohasa
7. Race: Frozen Power - King Of Rome - Mendip
8. Race: Steele Tango - Enak - Across The Rhine

Doncaster, Lingfield and Kempton

With Kelso abandoned, Doncaster stages the only N.H. racing today, while there is also low-level all-weather racing this afternoon at Lingfield and this evening at Kempton. The two novice hurdle races that open Doncaster´s card look interesting. Nicky Henderson, who continues to saddle winners every day, could well land them both with Loose Preformer at 13.35 CET and Thanks for Coming half an hour later, both with Barry Geraghty aboard.

However there are plenty of dangers, with Piroulet (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) and Bollin Felix (Tim Easterby/ Richard McGrath) respectively looking threatening. The best thing of the day is the German-bred Local Hero (Steve Gollings/ Tony McCoy) in the 4yo hurdle at 14.40. The brother to classic winner Liquido jumped like a natural when winning at Wetherby on his debut over sticks and could well go on to make a mark for himself in better company. Franklino (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), a heavily backed favourite on both starts so far but disappointing on each occasion, is probably better than his form suggests and is the only possible danger.

At Lingfield Honkers Bonkers (Alan McCabe/ J Doyle) in the Plersch colours must have a decent chance in the seller at 13.40, while the maiden races at 14.50 and 17.05 look booked for Mandy´s Hero (Ian Wlliams/ Jamie Spencer) and Super Collider (Michael Jarvis/ Jack Mitchell) respectively.

At Kempton, Feelin Foxy (James Given/ Franny Norton) can complete a quick CD hat-trick in the 5 furlongs handicap at 18.15, while the lightly-raced But Beautiful (Robert Mills/ Jim Crowley) can take the fillies handicap at 19.45.

Taunton, Towcester and Wolverhampton

N.H. racing this afternoon at Taunton and Towcester, while the flat racing is on the all-weather at Wolverhampton. Nicky Henderson is going through a purple patch and can score at both jumping fixtures. At Taunton, he should certainly take the novice hurdle at 14.45 CET with Secret World (Barry Geraghty),runner-up in a better race at Newbury last time. Dona (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) was a well-beaten third that day, but still looks the main danger, and his team can take revenge half an hour later in the novice handicap chase where we expect their Squadron can defeat Henderson´ s Shakalakaboomboom. Henderson´s China Sky is a bit of an unknown quantity in the mares novice hurdle at 15.45, but would not have to be anything special to defeat this poor opposition. The handicap hurdle at 16.15 looks very open, but the 3 German-breds could all run well- Marleno (Milton Harris/ Warren Marston), Marinsky (Tim Vaughan/ C. Timmons) and Cortinas (Charlotte Dyson/ Ian Popham), especia lly the first-named who showed improved form to win over this CD 11 days ago.

At Towcester, Rackham Lerouge (Henderson/ Tony McCoy) looks a penalty kick to defeat his 3 opponents in the novice chase at 14.55; he is expected to go on to much better things. Otherwise it could pay to follow Richard Johnson here, who can take the novice hurdle at 15.25 with Redbridge Flyer and the maiden hurdle an hour later with Papeese, both trained by Philip Hobbs, and can also the stayers novice hurdle at 14.25 on Tim Vaughan´s Pure Anticipation.

The card at Wolverhampton is very modest indeed. Our best bet here is Rubensstar (Pat Morris/ Ryan Clark) in the apprentice handicap over 7 furlongs at 16.05; he was an easy winner at this trip at Lingfield last week and can follow up under a penalty. His talented young rider can also score on Steve Williams´ Dreamacha in the fillies handicap an hour later.

Southwell (a.w.) and Leopardstown (Ireland)

Today´s British N.H. meetings at Chepstow and Sedgefield have been abandoned, leaving only the all-weather track at Southwell staging racing in the U.K. However there is an excellent N.H. card at Leopardstown in Ireland with some huge fields.
This does not apply to the main event, a Grade Two novice chase at 14.20 CET in which only 4 line up. In theory this must be won by Jessicas Dream (Gordon Elliott/ Timmy Murphy), who won a Grade One last time at Fairyhouse, defeating subsequent Grade One winner Realt Dubh. Even if this form is slightly suspect, Jessicas Dream should be able to concede 7 lbs to these opponents.

Much more interesting from the betting point of view are the two valuable handicaps on the card- a chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 14.50 and a hurdle race over 2 miles at 15.25. In the former event Willie Mullins´ two runners Jayo (Paul Townend), runner-up here last year, and Dooneys Gate (Paddy Mullins), must be respected, as is Noel Meade´s Jered, whose jockey Tony MCoy can do no wrong at present. However the two we like best are top-weight Rare Bob (Dessie Hughes/ Paddy Flood), who has been running in better company, and the lightly-weighted Silent Creek (Christy Roche/ Alan Crowe).

The hurdle race with 26 runners is ferociously difficult, and one could mention a dozen runners without getting on placed. The situation is further complicated by the fact that several top trainers - Mullins, Meade, Tony Martin, Edward O´Grady) have more than one entry. Our short list includes New Phase (Dermot Weld/ Robbie McNamara), Final Approach (Mullins/ Townend) and Mubrook (O´Grady/ Tommy Treacy), but the two German-breds Belord (JJ Walsh/ Keith Coleman) and Prince of Fire (Charlie Swan/ McCoy) also have their chances.

The card at Southwell is low-key but includes several recent course winners that could score again. Dontpaytheferryman (Brian Ellison/ Dale Swift) has won his last 3 races here, including on Thursday by 11 lengths, and looks almost unbeatable in the1 mile 3 furlongs handicap at 15.15. The same goes for Dubai Hills (Bryan Smart/ A Carter) half an hour later, an easy winner a week ago over this CD and penalised just 6 lbs. Even Stevens (David Nicholls/ Billy Cray) has won his last 4 races, including twice this CD, but from a handicapping point of view he should not beat Shostakovitch (Sylvester Kirk/ J Doyle), a head behind him last week and now 4 lbs better off.

N.H. racing at Sandown, Punchestown (Ireland) and Wincanton

Plenty more N.H. action today, after Sandown and Punchestown passed early morning inspections. Main event at Sandown is the Grade One novice hurdle at 15.40 with only 5 runners. Minella Class (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) and Toubab (Paul Nicholls/ Sam Thomas) stand out here, although Megastar (Gary and Jamie Moore) is also pretty smart. Some very tricky handicaps on the card, and our very tentative suggestions are Far More Serious (Charlie Longsdon/ Tom Scudamore) in the 3 mile chase at 15.05, I´msingingtheblues (David Pipe/ Danny Cook) in the 2 mile chase at 16.15 and bottom weight Zazamix (Hnderson/ David Bass) in the 2 mile hurdle half an hour later. Mille Chief (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) is the class act in the last-named race, but has a huge weight and we are not at all sure that he can concede more than two stones to Zazamix.

Henderson and Nicholls have runners all over today, and they can fight out the finish of the novice chase at 15.25 at Wincanton with Lord Ragnar (Andrew Tinkler) and The Minack (Nick Scholfield) respectively, while Emma Lavelle´s Bougger also has a chance.

Main feature at Punchestown is another 4yo hurdle at 13.45. The form choice here is Fearless Falcon (Adrian McGuiness/ Keith Donoghue), runner-up in a Grade Two last time, but we prefer Mister Carter (Tommy Stack/ Willie Lee), who made a winning debut 11 days ago despite some sloppy jumping, with 3 of these behind. Stack is best known now as a flat trainer but it should not be forgotten that he was a top N.H. jockey, winning the Grand National on Red Rum for example. Willie Mullins continues in excellent form and has several winning chances here, notably Flat Out (nephew Emmet in the saddle) at 12.45, Shifa at 14.20 (son Paddy) and Blackstairmountain (Paul Townend) at 16.05. German-bred Samain (Paddy) could be another winner for the stable in the bumper at 16.35.

Welsh Grand National at Chepstow

The Welsh Grand National at 14.45 CET at Chepstow is one of the biggest betting races of the N.H. season, and today´s edition with 20 runners seems as wide open as ever. This is one of the few top races never won by trainer Jonjo O´Neill and jockey Tony McCoy, but they can put the record straight now with Synchronised, who won the Midlands Grand National last season on heavy ground (will be the case again) and seems to have had the ideal preparation. He is not particularly well handicapped and is no real value at around 4-1, but he is still our selection. Obviously there are many dangers, including Maktu (Pat and Michael Murphy) and Dance Island (Ben Case/ Charlie Poste), both runners-up at Haydock last time. Royal Rosa (Howard Johnson/ Brian Hughes) was also runner-up last time, at his favourite track Aintree, in a race in which I´moncloudnine (Neil Mulholland/ Dougie Costello) was unluckily knocked out of contention. Watamu Bay (Paul Nicholls/ Ryan Mahon) is lightly-raced and is on our short list, but in our opinion the top weights Silver by Nature (Lucinda Russell/ Peter Buchanan) and Dream Alliance (Philip Hobbs/ Tom O´Brien), first and second in reverse order last year, have little chance off their current ratings.

The other big race at Chepstow is the Grade One Future Champions Finale, a hurdle race for 4yo´s, which sees some of the top juveniles in action. Sam Winner (Nicholls/ McCoy) and Smad Place (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson) were most impressive when winning last time and may fight out the finish. Nicholls´ other runner Dolatulo (Harry Skelton) looks held, but Marsh Warbler (Brian Ellison/ Fearghal Davis) could be a big danger.

McCoy could win two more races for owner JP McManus, with Rebecca Curtis´ debutant The Merry Giant in the maiden hurdle at 15.50 and Brendan Powell´s Money Order, who can repeat last year´s victory in the handicap hurdle at 16.25, while we think that Chief Yeoman (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) could repay each-way support in the handicap chase at 15.20.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Voramar Two - Sunsalve - Silver Kate
2. Race: Sam Winner - Smad Place - Marsh Warbler
3. Race: Synchronised - Maktu - Dance Island
4. Race: Rivaliste - Fine Parchment - Nikola
5. Race: The Merry Giant - Merehead - Oscar Papa
6. Race: Vagrant Emperor - Stow - Bertie May
7. Race: Saint Luke - Beat All Out - Ledbury Star

All-weather racing at Lingfield and Wolverhampton

Very little to get excited about at today´s two all-weather meetings, Lingfield this afternoon and Wolverhampton this evening. Sir Mark Prescott appears to have found another serial winner in Luck of the Draw (Steven Donohoe), who can win for the third time this year (!) in the 1 mile 5 furlongs handicap at 14.40 CET at Lingfield. If past experience is any guide, he probably has tons in hand despite a penalty for his latest Southwell success.

Best betting race here is the 5 furlongs handicap at 15.10, in which Milton Bradley saddles his two popular veterans, 14yo The Tatling (Russell Kennemore) and 11yo Cape Royal (Liam Keniry). Of these we prefer the former, who rarely wins these days but never runs a bad race; he meets You´relikemefrank (John Balding/ Graham Gibbons), who beat him easily over this CD last week, on 6 lbs better terms, while Estonia (Michael Squance/ Cathy Gannon), who has also twice won over this CD recently, is another danger.

Another CD specialist is Methaaly (Michael Mullineaux/ Joseph Young) who runs in the 6 furlongs handicap at 18.40 at Wolverhampton. He has won 5 times here, including twice for this apprentice. Otherwise we are interested in the performance of German-bred L´Homme de Nuit (Jim Best/ Andrew Heffernan) who runs in the 2 mile handicap an hour later. The son of Samum is a decent hurdler but has been off the track for nearly a year; stamina will be no problem, but fitness could be.

N.H. racing at Fontwell - Bangor off!

Rain now seems to be the main problem in the U.K. and Fontwell must survive another inspection before racing will be allowed to go ahead today. In any case the going will be heavy. Should racing be on, the novice chase over 2 3/4 miles at 14.30 CET is the most interesting event, despite having only 4 runners. Neither of the JP McManus runners Quantatitiveasing (Nicky Henderson/ Tony McCoy) and Straw Bear (Nick Gifford/ Liam Treadwell) has really lived up to expectations, but they could still dominate here. Henderson has another good chance with Prince du Beury (Andrew Tinkler) in the handicap chase at 16.30, where we are also interested in top-weight Commemoration Day (Gary and Josh Moore), who has been wth several different trainers in his career, including Christian von der Recke.
later: Bangor OFF following unexpected snow this morning.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Acrai Rua - Definite Dawn - Saintly Lady
2. Race: Quantitativeeasing - Fruity O`Rooney - Prescelli
3. Race: Eastwell Smiles - Broadway Star - Autumm Spirit
4. Race: Abbey Dore - Douryna - Topless
5. Race: Can`T Remember - Rossbrin - Jordan
6. Race: Coach Lane - Sordid Secret - Rigadin De Beauchene
7. Race: Twentyten - There And Then - Tenby Jewel

All-weather racing at Southwell and Wolverhampton

Very poor racing today on the all-weather at Southwell this afternoon and Wolverhampton this evening. If there is one horse with pretensions to better class, it can only be Benato the Great (David Nicholls/ Matt O´Connell) who runs in the 6 furlongs handicap at 14.20 CET at Southwell. He has won both his starts so far, including this CD last time, and is still on a very attractive rating.

Another last time CD winner who can follow up here is Bentley (Brian Baugh/ Graham Gibbons), who can defy a 6 lbs penalty in the mile handicap at 15.50. At Wolverhampton, the main feature is the 2 mile handicap at 19.10. Jezza (Vic Dartnall/ Steven Donohoe) has won his last 3 races, including twice here over 1 3/4 miles, and although he has gone up a lot in the weights can complete a fourtimer here. His jockey can also take the 1 1/2 miles handicap half an hour earlier on Sir Mark Prescott´s Albertus Pictor, who is out of Kirsten Rausing´s multiple German Group One winner Albanova.

Jumping at Huntingdon and Thurles

With Ludlow abandoned, the only N.H. tracks in action today are Huntingdon and Thurles. Easily the best racing is at the Irish track, where there are mainly large fields. The exception is the main feature, a Grade Three chase over 2 1/4 miles at 14.05 CET in which only 4 runners are declared. However all four have smart form to their credit; in oiur view the finish could be fought out between Quiscover Fontaine (Willie Mullins/ Paul Townend) and Psycho (Tony Martin/ Paul Carberry). With an eye to the future, the beginners chase over 3 miles at 13.35 could be the more interesting event. This could go to Arabella Boy (Enda Bolger/ Nina Carberry), who was a useful bumper horse and also ran well over hurdles; considering his trainer, he could well be a cross-country star before long. Ther are also some promising types in the maiden hurdle at 15.05; our choice here is Four Commanders (Mouse Morris/ Davy Russell).
The most informative race at Huntingdon could be the 4yo hurdle at 14.10. Pepite Rose (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) won easily last time, but the opposition today looks stronger and we prefer Tony Star (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) and Dhaafar (Alan King/ Robert Thornton). The novice hurdle an hour later should mainly concern Cucumber Run (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) and High Benefit (King/ Choc), while the Henderson/ Geraghty team can also take the bumper at 16.40 with Ericht.

N.H. racing today at Southwell

Southwell is better known for its mainly low grade all-weather racing, but today they go over jumps at the Nottinghamshire track and there are some smart prospects engaged. Nicky Henderson sends a team of three potential stars, with Tony McCoy booked to ride- German-bred Bellvano in the novice chase at 13.40 CET, Be There in Five in the beginners chase at 14.10 and Problema Tic, unbeaten in two bumpers, who makes his hurdling debut at 16.10. All three could win, but the most interesting is certainly Bellvano, who is expected to make grade over fences. The Silvano gelding was a smart novice hurdler, but has not run since finishing down the field at the Cheltenham Festival. The other possible star on view is Knight Pass (Warren Greatrex/ Wayne Hutchinson), who runs in the bumper at 16.40. He was a most impressive winner of his only start so far and is already quoted at a short price for the Champion Bumper.

The two all-weather meetings today, at Lingfield this afternoon and Kempton this evening are of very little interest. 13 of the 14 races are class 5 or 6, the exception being the 6 furlongs conditions race at 18.35 at Kempton. 3 of the 6 runners met recently at Lingfield with Silaah (David Nicholls/ Matt O´Connell) finishing runner-up, Five Star Junior (Lydia Stubbs/ James Sullivan) 3rd and Piscean (Tim Keddy/ George Baker) a close fifth. We would not be at all surprised to see Piscaen, who did not get a clear run, come out best this time, but he may not be able to handle top-weight Brave Prospector (Jane Chapple-Hyam/ Jamie Spencer), who has been running in better races. Spencer can also win the 3yo maiden at 17.05 on Jeremy Noseda´s newcomer Defer.

At Lingfield we hope that all-weather specialist Orchard Supreme (Jon Akehurst/ Jean-Pierre Guillambert) can improve his good CD record by taking the seller at 13.55, while Woop Woop (Stef Higgins/ Adam Kirby), who is moving up in trip, can win the 3yo claimer half an hour later.

Inspection at Leicester

Today´s Leicester fixture, the only N.H. racing in Britain and Ireland, looks doubtful after overnight frost and a second inspection has been called for 12 noon CET. Should racing go ahead, the two divisions of the novice hurdle that open the card could be the most interesting events. In the first division at 13.50 CET two useful flat performers make their debut over sticks - Credit Swap (Venetia Williams/ Aidan Coleman) , winner of the Cambridgeshire last time out, and Desert Cry (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire), who had good form in France and Italy. In the second division half an hour later Frascati Park (Nigel Twiston-Davies/ Paddy Brennan) sets the standard after his easy Ascot win, but our choice is Araldur (Alan King/ Robert Thornton), who has only run once in the last 2 years but had earlier smart form to his credit and gets 7 lbs.

All-weather racing at Southwell and Kempton

Two low-level all-weather meetings today and by far the most interesting feature is that Ryan Moore, last seen winning million dollar races in Japan and Hong Kong, is at Kempton to ride two horses for his father Gary. Both of his mounts Quality Art in the 5 furlongs maiden at 15.30 CET and Al Amaan in the 1 1/2 mile handicap at 17.30 have a winning chance, although the latter must reverse recent form with Kiss a Prince (Dean Ivory/ Adam Kirby), while top-weight Hatton Flight (Andrew Balding/ David Probert) and improving Cozy Tiger (Willie Musson/ Jamie Mackay) coiuld also be dangerous. Gary Moore can also be on the scoresheet at Southwell, where course specialist McConnell (George Baker) can win the mile handicap at 15.10, while Les Verguettes (Stef Higgins/ Micky Fenton), runner-up 3 times in her 5 career starts so far, can finally get off the mark in the fillies maiden at 14.10

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

Easily the most interesting event of the day is the hurdle race at 14.05 CET at Cork. Only 5 runners but they include Sublimity (Robbie Hennessy/ Andrew Lynch), winner of the Champion Hurdle 4 years ago, the veteran Newmill (James Dullea/ EFPower), in his prime a top 2 mile chaser, and the up and coming On the Way Out (Jon Kiely/ Paul Carberry), only beaten neck when runner-up to Jumbo Rio last week.

Obviously Sublimity at his best would win this, but we were quite taken with On the Way Out´s performance last week so he is the selection. With the Dermot Weld stable in good form, we expect his Duc de Savoie (Robbie McNamara) to take a competitive maiden hurdle at 14.40, while Willie Mullins looks highly likely to take the mares beginners chase at 16.15. Indeed his two runners Morning Supreme (Paul Townend) and Killultagh Queen (David Casey) can take the first two places.

The quality of racing at the two all-weather tracks today is very poor. Ours (John Harris/ Barry McHugh) was an easy winner yesterday over this CD at Southwell, and if he turns out again can follow up under a penalty in the mile handicap at 15.45; if he misses the race, Snow Bay (David Nicholls/ Matt O´Connell) and El Dececy (John Balding/ Adam Kirby) look the most likely to take advantage. At Wolverhampton it is sad to see one-time group performer Munsef (Ian Williams/ Jamie Spencer) line up in a claiming race at 16.35. Theoretically he should win by miles, but he seems to have totally lost his form.

Ayr, Hereford and Lingfield

Mainly low grade sport today and some very small fields as well. Lingfield stages one of its rare N.H.meetings and we make Shinrock Hill (Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson) at 15.15 CET the best bet here. He was 100/1 when runner-up at Exeter last time, but that was decent form and a reproduction would be good enough here. Johnson also has a winning chance on the consistent Betabob (Tim Vaughan) in the 2 mile handicap chase at 15.15. The novice hurdle at 14.45 looks quite interesting, but Raduis Bleu (Alan King/ Robert Thornton) -in the money all U.K. starts and runner-up this CD last time, and Zakeeta (Oliver Sherwood/ Leighton Aspell) - no chance in a much hotter at event at Cheltenham last time, but twice an easy winner beforehand - look the likeliest candidates.

At Ayr, Nafaath (Howard Johnson/ Brian Hughes) looks a good thing to win over fences for the first time at 14.00. he was a smart horse on the flat and over hurdles, and last time ran in a Grade One at the Aintree Grand National meeting. He seems to have little to beat here and if he jumps soundly should win easily. Nihols lexnder holds strong hnd in the hndivp chae over n etende 3 miles t 15.05, woth both Seeking Power, ridden b his daughter, nd Isöl Pearl Fisher (Paddy Aspell) engaged, but possibly Eyre Square (Keith and James Reveley) can beat them both. The handicap hurdle over the same trip at 15.40 could lie between Torta nel Cielo (James Ewart/ Harry Haynes) and What a Dream (Wilf Amos/ Fearghal Davis), who finished 1-2 in a similar race at Kelso 6 weeks ago. We prefer the latter, now better off at the weights and with possibly more scope for improvement.

There are only 6 runners in the beginners chase at 14.55 at Hereford but both Aldertune (Paul Nicholls/ Henry Skelton) and Pearlysteps (Henry Daly/ Jake Greenall) are expected to go on to better things. We have a slight preference for the latter. The ahndicap hurdle over 3 1/4 miles at 15.25 could go to Not Talking (John Quinn/ Dougie Costello) an easy winner of a similar race at Newcastle last time.

Southwell and Naas

There is also racing today on the all-weather at Southwell and over jumps in Naas (Ireland). Barney Curley has been very expensive to follow in recent months, but has two irons in the fire at Southwell - Cabuchon in the 1 1/2 mile maiden at 15.05 and Aviso in the mile claimer half an hour later. Both these well-bred ex-Schlenderhan runners, partnered today by Tom Queally, have been mainly disappointing in their runs in the U.K. but both are capable enough on their day. There are always doubts about runners from this stable, so our best bet here is Dubai Hills (Bryan Smart/ A Carter), who won ín a canter over this CD last time and can defy a 10 lbs rise in the weights in the 7 furlongs handicap at 14.00.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Valantino Oyster - Zed Candy - Elite Land
2. Race: Dubai Hills - This Ones For Eddy - The Lock Master
3. Race: Bilko Pak - Honkers Bonkers - Miss Moneypenni
4. Race: Palawi - Eshtyaaq - Truly Magnificent
5. Race: Ours - Hard Rock City - Lakeman
6. Race: Cape Of Storms - Prince James - Boy The Bell
7. Race: Gold Story - Itsthursdayalready - Norcroft




Willie Mullins and Paul Townend have had an extremely successful week and they can continue their winning run at Naas with with Cadspeed in the novice chase at 13.55, who can make the most of the weight he receives from Dermot Weld´s Prince Erik (Davy Condon), and Bishopsfurze in the main event, Grade Two novice hurdle at 14.25, where stable companion Gagewell Flyer (Emmet Mullins) could be the most dangerous opponent. Weld himself can go one better with Rainforest Magic (DT Evans) in the maiden hurdle at 15.30.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: White Star Line - Popmurphy - Lean Times
2. Race: Cadspeed - Prince Erik - Uncle Tom Cobley
3. Race: Bishopsfurze - Pineau De Re - Si C`Etait Vrai
4. Race: Dr Whizz - Bideford Legend - Darling Harbour
5. Race: Rainforest Magic - Quarton - Tinas Exhibition
6. Race: Lucky Spring - Its All Hush Hush - Tawrific Laois
7. Race: Tusa Eire - Willie John - Sweeney Tunes

Ayr, Plumpton and Folkestone

Racing returns to Scotland today after more than a month due to the bad weather. The Ayr card is not particularly high class but the Scottish trainers are out in force, notably Lucinda Russell, who has runners (often several) in every race. Her best chance in our view is with Blenheim Book (Peter Buchanan), who has top weight in the handicap hurdle at 16.00 CET. However the trainer to follow could be Howard Johnson and we expect Rupert Lamb at 13.50, Fortysecond Street at 14.55 and Ascendant half an hour later all to run well and all partnered by Brian Hughes.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Lively Baron - Storm Brig - Tanzanite Bay
2. Race: Rupert Lamb - Fortuni - Lady Bluesky
3. Race: Elzahann - The Knoxs - Cool Mission
4. Race: Safari Adventures - Sibenek - Catch Bob
5. Race: Worth A King`S - Grandad Bill - Stopped Out
6. Race: Blenheim Brook - Quacity - Sheriff Hall
7. Race: Border Flora - Too Cool To Fool - Vallani



Main event at Plumpton is the Sussex National over 3 miles 5 furlongs at 15.10. David Pipe is in good form and saddles two runners here - Master Overseer (Tom Scudamore), who won the race last year but has not raced since and is now 6 lbs higher, and Peut etre Sivola (Johnny Farrelly), who won a similar race at Fontwell from Kawagino (Seamus Mullns/ Andrew Thornton), now 6 lbs better off; the former probably needs even heavier ground, but the latter could be placed again, however our main fancy is for Whataboutya (Jonjo O´Neil/ Tony McCoy). He can possibly complete a hat-trick for the champion, as Nicky Henderson´s runners in the first two races Gibb River and Giorgio Quercus have obvious chances.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Gibb River - Extremely So - Mr Muddle
2. Race: Giorgio Quercus - Tullamore Dew - Norman The Great
3. Race: Invictus - Water Garden - Carribs Leap
4. Race: Master Overseer - Whataboutya - Rebel Melody
5. Race: Quetzal - Lepido - Black Phantom
6. Race: Ere Alfie - Sumdancer - Maximix
7. Race: Sir John - Tocatchaprince - Crystal Prince

Excellent New Years Day card at Cheltenham

Although 2 jumps meetings have had to be abandoned, the New Year starts well for N.H. fans with an excellent card at Cheltenham and some good racing at Exeter and Fakenham, while in Ireland they go over the jumps at Fairyhouse and Tramore. Main feature at Cheltenham is the Grade Two Dipper Novices Chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs at 15.00 CET. This has a very strong field with 13 runners, several of them with Festival ambitions. Reve de Sivola (Nick Williams/ Daryl Jacob), a recent CD winner, is one of them as are Mr. Thriller (David Pipe/ Tom Scudamore) - who fell when still going well last time- Master of the Hall (Nicky Henderson/ Barry Geraghty) and the rather unreliable Medermit (Alan King/ Robert Thornton). However our choice is the lightly-weighted Sway (Jonjo O´Neill/ Tony McCoy), who is moving up in grade but seems to have plenty of improvement in him.

The valuable handicap chase over the same trip at 15.35 is another very open affair, with question marks hanging over the main contenders, such as Tartak (Tom George/ Paddy Brennan), arguably better on a flat course, or Caroles Legacy (Henderson/ Geraghty), arguably better over hurdles. Can´t Buy Time (O´Neill/ McCoy) won this last yar but has run badly ever since, and we therefore choose two outsiders - German-bred Moon over Miami (Charlie Mann/ Paul Moloney), who needs to come with a very late run, and oldtimer Mister McGoldrick (Sue Smith/ Dominic Elsworth), who runs his best races here.

The hurdle race over 2 1/2 miles at 13.55 is virtually a rerun of the Relkeel Hurdle run 3 weeks ago over the same CD, in which Karabak (King/ McCoy) defeated Any Given Day (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire) and Celestial Halo (Paul Nicolls/ Harry Skelton); at the revised weights there should be little between the three of them.

The listed bumper for 4yos at 16.45 is probably the best race of its kind so far this season in the U.K. Keys (Roger Charlton/ Brennan) has a good flat pedigree and has won both his starts in promising style. He is the likely favourite here but is meeting much stronger opposition now and may not be suited by this much stiffer track, but if he wins well, he will be an obvious candidate for the Champion Bumper.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Bobs Worth - Astracad - Habbie Simpson
2. Race: Karabak - Any Given Day - Oscar Whisky
3. Race: Buffalo Bob - Qhilimar - Maljimar
4. Race: Reve De Sivola - Medermit - Mr Thriller
5. Race: Carole`S Legacy - Tartak - Taranis
6. Race: Kilcrea Kim - Viking Blond - Chartreux
7. Race: Keys - Trozulon - Cousin Khee

German-breds to score?

German-breds did very well over jumps last week - Iolith and Shot from the Hip were particularly impressive - and we expect more winners today. At Exeter, Fight Club (Bernard Llewellyn/ Isobell Tompsett) runs in the novice hurdle at 14.15 CET. This one time group winner has not troubled the judge in his two N.H. starts so far, but with more routine we think he could be involved in the finish today, as could his stable companion Salontyre in the handicap hurdle over the same trip an hour later. However the one to beat here is clearly top-weight Saldenlicht (Alan King/ Wayne Hutchinson), a classy performer who was listed class on the flat for Baron Ullmann.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Mr Hudson - Accordintolawrence - Lord Liath
2. Race: Piroulet - Bermuda Boy - Magic Marmalade
3. Race: Holyrood - Baby Car - Musical Wedge
4. Race: Karasenir - Advisor - Warne`S Way
5. Race: Just The Job - Mic`S Delight - Laustra Bad
6. Race: Cash Back - Spanish Cruise - Immense
7. Race: Glitzy D`Ocala - Morgan`S Bay - Billy Merriott




At Fakenham, Lucy Wadham, who does well wth her German-breds, can take the opening maiden hurdle at 13.00 with Aviador (Leighton Aspell) and the same connections can follow up with Super Directa in the handicap hurdle at 14.10 if he is not too rusty after a long layoff.

Betting forecast:
1. Race: Sire De Grugy - Aviador - Glorybe
2. Race: Celticello - National Trust - Knight Legend
3. Race: Rumble Of Thunder - Mangham - All For Free
4. Race: Flying Squad - Investment Affair - Muntami
5. Race: Amuse Me - I`Ve Been Framed - Super Directa
6. Race: Best Horse - Lukie Victor - Gavroche Gaugain
7. Race: Prince Massini - Little Carmela - Lastroseofsummer