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WHO needs Paddy Power when you can have Annie Power!
That's Milesey's selection which should get us up and running with a winner on Easter Sunday.
Fairyhouse 2.25
ANNIE POWER
ANNIE POWER was most impressive when winning a Grade 2 event at Naas last month and Willie Mullins’ mare is fancied to maintain her unbeaten record.
Mullins is making a concerted effort to win this for the first time in 10 years with a trio of entries. Zuzka landed a Grade 3 at Leopardstown’s Christmas fixture where stablemate Glens Melody was almost 7l back in third.
Both are useful but look the second and third strings behind ANNIE POWER here and Ruby Walsh can steer her to her seventh successive victory. She’s proving herself one of the great finds of the season and had few problems beating the classy Defy Logic in a Naas Grade 2 last month.
Winner of three hurdle races and three NH flat races at 2m on ground varying from soft to soft – heavy. A winner at 5-2 in a Grade 2 hurdle race in the Group 2 Paddy Power.com Novice Hurdle at Naas over 2m (soft – heavy) on her latest outing last month, beating Defy Logic by 3 1/2l.
Plumpton 2.30
TOP GAMBLE
TOP GAMBLE looked an above average hurdling recruit when smoothly accounting for a dozen rivals at Ffos Las in early February. Making all, the son of Presenting was always in command and is hard to oppose here in pursuance of the three-timer.
He also appears a gelding with scope for considerable progress. The sole concern is all three runs to date have seen him encounter heavy conditions and he will face notably quicker ground here.
TOP GAMBLE made an impressive winning hurdles debut over 2m at Ffos Las last month and looks sure to take plenty of beating, despite his penalty, with the step up in trip unlikely to pose a problem.
Successful in a hurdle race and a NH flat race at 2m on heavy ground. A winner at 2-1 in a hurdle race at Ffos Las over 2m (heavy) on his latest outing last month, beating Sidney Melbourne by 6l. Has won twice at Ffos Las this season.
Plumpton 3.30
UPTON MEAD
Upton Mead and his young conditional rider have been making hay of late but he is up 15lb for two recent wins and this looks a somewhat tougher assignment. He remains one for the shortlist, while Tchang Goon is once again way out of the handicap and Lough Coi has landed both successes this term on heavy ground and faces a demanding ask off topweight under faster conditions.
UPTON MEAD is on an upward curve and although he has been raised 8lb for his 2m4f success here earlier this month might be able to complete the hat-trick.
He has won three chases from 2m 1f to 2m 4f on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. Won on his latest outing in a chase when 11-8fav here over 2m 4f (soft) earlier this month, beating Callhimwhatyouwant by 11l. Has won 3 times this season.
Cork 4.15
ROI DU MEE
ROI DU MEE has a penalty for his Grade 2 success over Prince De Beauchene at Fairyhouse last month but is such a tough and consistent performer that he can gain his 12th career victory. Enjoying a splendid run of form at present and comes into this fresh on the back of a Grade 2 (3m1f) success at Fairyhouse. Everything points to another bold bid from Gordon Elliott’s improving charge and makes more appeal than Call The Police.
The latter has been in good form himself this season, winning twice, but was well held latest and needs to raise his game a little to get the better of the selection.
Has won two hurdle races and eight chases from 2m to 3m 1f on ground varying from soft to soft – heavy. A winner at 5-1 in a Grade 2 chase in the Group 2 At The Races Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse over 3m 1f (soft) on his latest outing last month, beating Prince De Beauchene by 2l.
Musselburgh 4.55
SKYTRAIN
SKYTRAIN looks to be going the right way, following up his Lingfield win at the beginning of the month with another excellent display at Wolverhampton last time, finishing second. Like many from the Mark Johnston stable he can be expected to progress further and makes more appeal than recent Southwell scorer Red Gift and Lingfield winner The Scuttler.
A winner at 7f on the all-weather. Beaten 3 1/2l by Newstead Abbey when second of six at 15-8fav on his latest outing at Wolverhampton over 7f earlier this month
GRAND NATIONAL 2013 TIPS
JOIN TOGETHER 20-1
Paul Nicholls has always referred to this horse as a staying chaser in the making and his run in the Becher Chase seems to underline those potential qualities. Just held by the gallant Hello Bud at Aintree he looks likely to improve further when tried over extreme distances and his generally clean and efficient jumping marks him down as a horse to watch closely for the Grand National. The handicapper does not appear to have reacted too unfavourably to Join Together’s Becher run so connections must be very hopeful of following up on the stable’s fine win the Grand National.
RARE BOB 33-1
Rare Bob has been a useful handicapper for Dessie Hughes. The Highlight of his career so far is a win a 42k race at Leopardstown in 2010/11. All Rare Bobs wins have come on soft or heavy ground but that is not to say that this is horse is a mudlark as he has run some fine races on good ground. He has finished fourth in an Irish National as well as running good races in the John Smiths Handicap at Aintree in 2010 and again in 2011. This shows that good ground would not be a handicap to him in the Grand National. More of a concern would be the form he showed at the track when tackling the Becher Chase of 2011. Rare Bob’s trainer Dessie Hughes has a fine record in that race and so Rare Bob’s participation was highly anticipated but he weakened badly after the third last and was beaten over sixty lengths into fifth place. Dessie Hughes record over the Aintree fences in recent years would mean that this horse deserves consideration but his performance in the Becher Chase would dampen enthusiasm.
QUISCOVER FONTAINE 50-1
Quiscover Fontaine finished sixth in the 2010 Arkle Chase at Cheltenham to Sizing Europe so has obviously always been well regarded, Quiscover Fontaine was given an entry in the 2011 Grand National but ultimately did not take up that engagement, connections preferring instead to run in the Irish National at Fairyhouse. Willie Mullins had previously kept the French bred gelding at distances up to 2m 5f so his chances at Fairyhouse were rather unknown with relation to him getting the trip. As it turned out he stayed well to finish fourth behind Organisedconfusion. Willie Mullins did run him in the 2012 Grand National and Quiscover Fontaine was still going well when falling at the 17th fence. That run was rather ignored by most pundits as he was a relative outsider but he was still in with a great chance when he came down. Like many recent Grand National winners he has been campaigned partly over hurdles this season indicating that connections believe there is some scope with the horse’s current chase rating and he looks a very lively contender and should definitely be of interest to those punters looking to for an outsider with a good chance. Still engaged in the Irish National so make sure your bet is non-runner no bet if you are backing him for Aintree.
Milesey
GambleAware
Stevenage have confirmed the appointment of Graham Westley as manager.
Westley, 45, rejoins after leaving the club for Preston North End in January 2012 following three years at Boro that saw the club win back to back promotions from the Conference to League 1.
He replaces Gary Smith, who left the club 10 days ago.
Chairman Phil Wallace said: “Graham was keen to come back to Stevenage and, although I met some strong candidates, without doubt I think he’s the best man for the job right now. The club enjoyed a great deal of success before he left last year and we moved forwards significantly in his time here on several levels.
“Since he left we’ve continued that progress in people and infrastructure off the pitch. So we spent a lot of time this past week talking about things we feel we could do better this time round and we’ve put many of those into our contractual arrangement.
“There are a lot of myths about Graham and the 9-5 one is the biggest. Yes, he demands a high work ethic and commitment from his players but the extra hour or two some may do is spent on personal development subjects. As long as a lad wants to improve himself and win medals that’s never been an issue at our club.
“I’m looking forward to some exciting times again. This is the first time our season has ended in April for four years and that’s a measure of how far we’ve come and what we’re about.”
Westley, who left the club for Preston North End just over a year ago was unveiled as the new boss today (Saturday) and promised to pick up where he left off, starting with the visit of Hartlepool to the Lamex Stadium on Monday.
“My job now is to go from 15th upwards, playing in a systematic and intelligent way.
“I have built a lifelong bond with this football club and have won medals and enjoyed success here.
“I am delighted to come back and play a part in that again.”
Reflecting on the departure of Gary Smith, Westley said: “Gary had a difficult job taking over from someone who had been so successful. I know I am blowing my own trumpet when I say that but he had to put his own mark on the side and I thought they did well to get to the playoffs.”
All players inherited by the new man will get a chance to impress.
Having paid a visit to meet the squad at the new training centre on Saturday morning, Westley said: “I have already met with the lads and have told them I don’t know yet how we will work together but our only agenda is to put medals and achievements on the table.
“It is important to be open minded about who we have here and to give everyone a chance to develop.”
Reflecting on his third return to Boro, Westley said: “It has been a busy seven days. The recruitment process has taken its place and the chairman has made me work hard to persuade him that I am the man for the job.
“I have a good relationship with Phil, it is built on professionalism and respect and I am looking forward to working with him again.”
Club chairman Phil Wallace was delighted at the return of Westley saying: “He is clearly my preferred choice and I am pleased to welcome Graham back to this club.
“If this club is to kick on in League One and we are to build our infrastructure then we need success and good player development and that is what I am hoping for with this appointment.”
Club captain Mark Roberts welcomed back his former boss saying: “Graham has changed me as a person. People in football do have preconceptions about him but he has met the players and has told them that he will get the best out of them if they help him to develop as a manager.
“When you have a squad of 20 or so players who only want to go higher then that is a very powerful message and it brings everyone together.”
A further announcement about the full management team is expected to be made shortly.
GOLF
—–
AFTER THIRD ROUND
—————–
Trophee Hassan II
LEADER -15
T16 Emiliano Grillo @ 130.0 -3
T31 John Parry @ 250.0 E
T39 Michael Hoey @ 76.0 +1
T47 Graeme Storm @ 270.0 +2
——————-
Shell Houston Open
LEADER -11
T3 Ben Crane @ 176.0 -10
=============================
T21 Phil Mickelson @ 18.5 -6
T21 Graham DeLaet @ 120.0 -6
=============================
T43 Chris Kirk @ 41.0 -3
T48 Boo Weekley @ 170.0 -2
T61 Gary Woodland @ 101.0 -1
T69 Jimmy Walker @ 41.0 +1
Anyone who is following the golf tips:
Looks like we can completely forget the TROPHEE HASSAN II 12 shots off the leader going into the last round.
Better news though in the SHELL HOUSTON OPEN, as Ben CRANE 175/1 sits in a tie for 3rd place just 1 shot off the leader. MICKELSON and DELAET also fired in a great third round to both get to -6, could still be big players in the final round tomorrow.
——————————————
On Saturday morning, Phil Mickelson shot a 5-under 67 in the third round of the Shell Houston Open at the Redstone Golf Club.
After making the cut on the number, the 2011 winner of this tournament has put himself back into contention on a leaderboard topped mostly by players with little experience leading PGA Tour events.
“I had a good round today, the first seven, eight holes we played, there was no wind,” Mickelson said. “It was really a great opportunity to take advantage of some birdies.
“My game is starting to feel really good. I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s round because each day I feel like my game has gotten better and better. I don’t know how far back I’ll be or if I’ll be within striking distance. I think I’ll be able to make some kind of move.”
This year marks the first time since 2007 that the 42-year-old San Diego native will not play the week before the Masters. Now with the Valero Texas Open between Houston and the Masters, the lefty will head over to Augusta for some practice, instead of playing an event.
—————————–
Milesey
Milesey I put on Bud Cauley 75, Kokrak 50, Mickelson 40 Bradley 25 in running..few needing a good round but in the mix
Milesey, if you’d waited a couple of hours you could have had O’Neill. Seriously, Westley and Stevenage look made for each other.
The only thing the fans have to get over is how he left us and went off to Preston stating it was a bigger club, and taking 6 of our best players with him, we were in the playoffs at the time and Preston no where…. who knows what would have happened in the playoffs with Westley still at the club, but all will be forgotten when the wins start coming again. Didn’t make it at Preston, but will lead us into the championship next season ;) ;)
Milesey
REMEMBER to put your clocks forward before you go to bed tonight (Saturday) as British Summer Time (BST) begins.
Clocks will need to be put forward an hour from 1am to 2am
The official time changes at 1am tomorrow morning (Easter Sunday), when it will become 2am.
Clocks must be moved forward an hour to allow for the time change, which means an hour less in bed but more daylight in the evenings.
Milesey
Milesey, not working tonight so had completely forgotten. That’s possibly your best tip yet.
Milesy At mussleburgh for day sunday what you pointers?
Cheers
in the opening race at Musselburgh, with the Tim Easterby-trained Cheers For Thea taken to hit the mark. The eight-year-old was an impressive winner of a Wolverhampton handicap in December but a couple of below-par efforts mean that she returns to turf on a very workable mark of 65, some 13 lb lower than when last seen on the surface. Her main rival on Timeform weight-adjusted ratings is Jordaura who, for all that it would be no surprise were he to bounce back now he is returned to what seems to be his favoured surface, has generally been operating below his best over the winter and will need to buck up his ideas if he is to trouble Cheers For Thea.
Musselburgh’s second race is a pretty open handicap over seven furlongs but it could be worth chancing Nant Saeson, who looks fairly treated when judged against the pick of his turf efforts. The four-year-old scored twice at Wolverhampton over the winter and it is well worth forgiving his two most recent starts, doing too much too soon on his penultimate outing before seemingly failing to handle the fibresand at Southwell last month. He has form on this sort of ground, having finished second at Redcar in desperate conditions last year, and he seems sure to go close here.
Back Cheers For Thea @ 6.0 in the 14:20 at Musselburgh
Back Nant Saeson @ 8.4 in the 14:50 at Musselburgh
PLACE AND WIN
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Rawaafed in the 15.20 at Musselburgh. This gelding finished sixth to Goldstorm in a handicap at Wolverhampton earlier this month. He attempted to make all,but was collared a furlong from home and finished well beaten.
I think he will be suited by the return to maiden company and should go close at a fair price. At present he is trading at 7.8 on the exchange.
Milesey ( betfair )
15:50 at Musselburgh
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The Bull Hayes is a one-time useful dual-purpose performer who was back on his game when runner-up on belated Flat return at Doncaster (1½m) recently. Stays this far and feasibly treated returned to a handicap.
Nanton is still capable of useful form, despite failing to add to tally in 2012. On a fair mark on reappearance as a result, but has often needed a run to put him straight in the past.
Porgy made a cracking start for yard when landing a 1½m handicap at Wolverhampton in August. Twice successful over timber since and commands respect following good recent second over 1¾m on AW recently.
Solaras Exhibition continued good strike-rate for this yard, winning 3 times over hurdles prior to successful Flat return at Chester (11f) in June. Good second on AW recently, but stamina to prove on first try at 1¾m.
Royal Peculiar has gained both wins over 1½m on polytrack at Lingfield, latest one in December. Creditable third after a break at Wolverhampton recently, but well beaten only previous try at this trip.
Los Nadis has won 5 times here (including twice over hurdles). Hit the bullseye again at Ayr in September, but mixed bag over hurdles this year, and cheekpieces need to enable him to pull out more.
Mica Mika got back to winning ways when landing brace of 1½m Wolverhampton handicaps at the turn of the year. Ran respectably on hat-trick bid last month, but this possibly too competitive on turf return.
Angel Gabrial improved when landing a brace of 1¼m handicaps last summer. Progress ground to a halt upped to 1½m when last seen in September, though, and even further to travel on reappearance.
Getabuzz has made the frame all 4 outings after regaining winning thread at Doncaster (1¾m) last summer. Ran well on reappearance in 2012, so no surprise if he makes another bold show this time round.
Moidore continued upward curve when registering third career win at Hamilton (13f) in September. Not lived up to expectations over hurdles since, but possibly capable of better still upped to 1¾m.
Lady Kashaan was much improved when landing 4 handicaps at up to 1¾m last year. Return to this trip will suit after finding 1½m inadequate on final start, so very much of interest if ready to go on return.
Cosmic Sun finished well held all 4 outings after a long absence in 2012. Dropped to a tempting mark as a result, but more positive signs needed before he is worth chancing again.
1. Moidore
2. Porgy
3. Getabuzz
Porgy has been resurgent since joining Brian Ellison, and is respected alongside Getabuzz, who put up a bold show on his reappearance last year, but Moidore remains open to improvement over staying trips, and could be the one to side with. Lady Kashaan is of similar ilk, and is also worth considering if the market vibes are positive on her reappearance.
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Musselburgh 4.55
SKYTRAIN
SKYTRAIN looks to be going the right way, following up his Lingfield win at the beginning of the month with another excellent display at Wolverhampton last time, finishing second. Like many from the Mark Johnston stable he can be expected to progress further and makes more appeal than recent Southwell scorer Red Gift and Lingfield winner The Scuttler.
A winner at 7f on the all-weather. Beaten 3 1/2l by Newstead Abbey when second of six at 15-8fav on his latest outing at Wolverhampton over 7f earlier this month
Milesey ( betfair )
All the early betting moves ahead of today’s racing at Musselburgh, Plumpton, Towcester Fairyhouse and Cork
Musselburgh
14:20
Titus Bolt 5.23 in to 4.5
Jordaura 8.45 in to 7.2
14:50
Celestial Dawn 13.5 in to 9.2
Dream Walker 14.5 in to 10.5
15:20
Lightning Lunch 5.8 in to 4.2
15:50
Lady Kashaan 8.4 in to 7.2
Solaras Exhibition 5.5 out to 9.4
Angel Gabriel 10.5 in to 7.2
16:20
Ambleside 1.81 out to 2.24
Hell Hath No Fury 10.5 in to 7.8
16:55
Skytrain 3.7 in to 3.15
Lexington Place 4.5 in to 3.85
The Scuttler 6.8 out to 8.2
Plumpton
15:00
Ballyman 3.35 out to 4.4
Rosoff 7.0 in to 4.7
Doheny Bar 6.6 in to 5.1
16:00
Court Minstrel 3.15 in to 2.78
Balder Succes 9.4 in to 6.8
Red Inca 7.0 out to 8.8
Home Run 9.6 out to 15.0
16:35
Looking On 1.48 out to 1.64
17:05
Somerby 3.45 out to 3.8
Soutine 4.5 in to 3.8
17:35
Douchkirk 7.2 in to 5.5
Local Present 7.8 in to 6.4
Towcester
14:10
Thinger Licht 2.24 out to 2.88
Tracking Time 8.6 in to 6.6
14:40
Quayside Court 2.58 out to 3.05
Thorncliffer 3.98 in to 3.3
Doubletoiltrouble 6.06 in to 5.3
15:40
Kilvergan Boy 4.6 in to 4.0
16:10
Master Todd 2.48 in to 2.14
16:45
Citizens Arrest 7.0 in to 5.4
Fairyhouse
14:25
Annie Power 1.59 in to 1.43
14:55
Defy Logic 3.8 in to 3.1
15:55
Sammy Black 4.4 in to 3.5
Not For Changing 13.5 in to 5.6
16:30
Mount Belbulben 3.5 in to 4.7
Dedigout 4.1 out to 5.0
Mikael Dhageuenet 5.8 in to 4.7
Cork
14:15
Bayan 8.8 in to 3.8
16:15
Roi Du Mee 2.24 in to 1.98
Milesey ( betfair )
A busy Sunday afternoon is in store, with three competitive cards in Britain, as well as the first day of the Irish Grand National meeting at Fairyhouse. The best race of the day is the Grade 1 Powers Gold Cup at Fairyhouse, which has an intriguing look to it, while the feature race in Britain on the face of it contains the most generous initial handicap mark seen all season.
To start with the Powers Gold Cup, due off at 16.30, in which the key is the frankly ropey jumping of most of the six runners. There is little to choose on form between Mikael d’Haguenet, Oscars Well and Mount Benbulben and any of the trio is good enough to win this but none is a safe conveyance, each one liable to make at least one serious mistake. Dedigout turned in a better round of jumping when winning at Naas last time but his earlier efforts lacked conviction and he was rather disappointing prior to that confidence booster. Likely pacemaker Realt Mor has failed to get round twice from six starts over fences and jumped indifferently even when getting off the mark by a wide margin in maiden company earlier in the month. That leaves Buckers Bridge, the least exposed in the field after just three runs in chases, following a point and two bumper wins. The second of those bumper wins, in a strong race on very testing ground at the Punchestown Festival last spring, suggested Buckers Bridge had the potential to go to the top over jumps. He has won two his three races over fences, showing smart form, and while he’s had to knuckle down to gain both successes, a willing attitude is no bad thing. At Navan last time, Buckers Bridge crucially looked a very solid jumper, while he was winning there despite a steady pace at two miles. A truer gallop back over further should be right up his street.
The Sussex Champion Hurdle at Plumpton (16.00) has attracted a deservedly useful field but an otherwise competitive handicap looks to have a blot in it in the shape of Court Minstrel. Smart in bumpers, Court Minstrel looked a good prospect when winning at Cheltenham on his hurdling debut before finishing an eye-catching third behind Dodging Bullets in a Grade 2 novice at the Open meeting there. He didn’t run to his best on very testing ground in the Tolworth at Sandown on his most recent start but again shaped well. The run behind Dodging Bullets is worth, on a conservative reading of the bare form, a BHA mark somewhere in the low 140s. He’s plainly better than that and yet the BHA handicapper has given him a mark of just 131. Court Minstrel missed the Betfair Hurdle due to the ground and missed the cut in the County Hurdle by one. Today is his day.
Recommendations:
Back Buckers Bridge @ 10.0 in the 16.30 at Fairyhouse
Back Court Minstrel @ 2.84 in the 16.00 at Plumpton
Milesey ( betfair )
HORSE RACING
TODAYS SELECTIONS
Fairyhouse 2.25
ANNIE POWER
Plumpton 2.30
TOP GAMBLE
Plumpton 3.30
UPTON MEAD
Cork 4.15
ROI DU MEE
Musselburgh 4.55
SKYTRAIN
Back Cheers For Thea @ 6.0 in the 14:20 at Musselburgh
Back Nant Saeson @ 8.4 in the 14:50 at Musselburgh
Rawaafed in the 15.20 at Musselburgh
Back Buckers Bridge @ 10.0 in the 16.30 at Fairyhouse
Back Court Minstrel @ 2.84 in the 16.00 at Plumpton
Milesey ( betfair )
NON RUNNERS
————
Plumpton 2.30
TOP GAMBLE
Back Cheers For Thea @ 6.0 in the 14:20 at Musselburgh
Milesey
HORSE RACING
TODAYS SELECTIONS
Fairyhouse 2.25
ANNIE POWER
Plumpton 3.30
UPTON MEAD
Cork 4.15
ROI DU MEE
Musselburgh 4.55
SKYTRAIN
Back Nant Saeson @ 8.4 in the 14:50 at Musselburgh
Rawaafed in the 15.20 at Musselburgh
Back Buckers Bridge @ 10.0 in the 16.30 at Fairyhouse
Back Court Minstrel @ 2.84 in the 16.00 at Plumpton
Milesey ( betfair )
The Imperial Call Chase at Cork should should boil down to a straight fight between Roi du Mee and Call The Police, and preference is for the former who is at the top of his game at present. Gordon Elliott’s runner has developed into a very smart chaser this term, landing his fifth victory of the season when taking the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse on his latest start, jumping well and digging deep under pressure to hold Prince de Beauchene. This looks a pretty good opportunity to make it six wins for the season.
Back Roi Du Mee in the 16:15 at Cork
Milesey ( betfair )
Milesey, I’ve been out most of the day so haven’t read all your racing. I’ve been given a tip for Constant Contact ew, 4.0 at Plumpton. I can see 11-1 or 12-1. Any thoughts?
Mr f that horse tip has it a chance thinking
Of backing it
Al, guy who sent me the tip is going big on it ew so I’ve had a little punt but really know nothing about it. Milesey hasn’t mentioned it either so here’s hoping.
HORSE RACING
TODAYS SELECTIONS
Fairyhouse 2.25
ANNIE POWER ** WIN **
Plumpton 3.30
UPTON MEAD ** 2ND **
Cork 4.15
ROI DU MEE ** WIN **
Musselburgh 4.55
SKYTRAIN @ 3.4 ** WIN **
Back Nant Saeson @ 8.4 in the 14:50 at Musselburgh ** 3RD **
Back Court Minstrel @ 5.06 in the 16.00 at Plumpton ** WIN **
Milesey ( betfair )
HORSE RACING TIPS
EASTER MONDAY
————-
All 30 runners in the Easter Monday feature, the Irish Grand National over three miles and five furlongs at Fairyhouse.
Junior jumped fluently when making all to regain winning thread in Rehearsal Chase on reappearance. Out of his depth over fences next 2 starts, but produced laboured effort back hurdling at Cheltenham.
You Must Know Me won his sole hurdles start and has quickly made up into a useful chaser, finding only the rejuvenated Dedigout too good in a novice at Naas last time. Jumping already looks a real asset.
Magnanimity put up creditable efforts when runner-up this season, beaten 3½ lengths by Call The Police in minor event at Clonmel on latest. Showed up well for a long way in this last season, but stamina an issue.
Sweeney Tunes has always looked the type to make a better chaser than hurdler and has progressed well since switched to the larger obstacles, scoring easily in a Grade 2 at Naas on latest. Will stay beyond 3m.
Competitive Edge has got his act together over fences recently, following up his Leopardstown win from a 7 lb higher mark at Gowran last time. In good heart, but marked step up in trip looks a real concern.
Cootamundra is yet to strike over fences, but shown plenty of ability in this sphere, including when third to Savello at Leopardstown. Never once shaped as if wanting a test of stamina like this, though.
He’llberemembered is a useful hurdler who has won twice over fences this season, most recently in a 21f Leopardstown handicap. Not so good at Gowran just 6 days later and jumping is a worry in a big field like this.
Home Farm ran out a wide-margin winner of a maiden hurdle at Thurles (2¼m) and transferred that form to fences when beating White Star Line in maiden here on latest start. Should do better and bred to stay well.
Jacksonlady has done well since switched to fences this season, showing useful form to land an 17f handicap at Leopardstown on latest by 3 lengths from Rubert. Fit from Flat, but unproven beyond 2½m.
Muirhead is a hold-up performer who had to work hard to land the odds in minor chase at Galway in September. Best effort since when fourth to Mount Benbulben at Thurles last time, but much more needed now.
Whodoyouthink is a better chaser than hurdler, winning minor event at Punchestown in May. Can be moody, however, and form has been very patchy this term. One to be wary of.
Rich Revival is very lightly raced for a 9-y-o but quickly making up for lost time over fences this season, making it 3 from 3 when landing the Leinster National at Naas on latest. May do better still.
Marasonnien was a Grade 1 winner as a novice hurdler but is yet to prove as effective over fences, third behind Home Farm in a maiden here on latest. Needs to improve, but couldn’t be in better hands.
Away We Go showed himself better than ever when winning handicap hurdle here in February and yet to race over fences for this yard. Handicapper taken no chances, but by no means a forlorn hope.
Romanesco’s jumping can be sketchy but he posted a useful effort when runner-up to Colbert Station in Paddy Power at Leopardstown in December and ran well when third to Same Difference at Cheltenham on latest.
Cross Appeal won the Paddy Power Handicap Chase at Leopardstown last season, but failed to fire since reappearance and hard to trust on present form.
Jadanli put up his best effort in some time when landing Thyestes Chase at Gowran in January with cheekpieces refitted. Not discredited either start since, but handicapper may well have his measure now.
Questions Answered is a better chaser than hurdler and has produced largely creditable efforts over fences this term, though wasn’t quite at his best when only seventh at Leopardstown on latest.
Blazing Beacon is lightly raced for one his age but proved all ability still remains when winning veterans race at Wexford on return, jumping superbly. 8 lb rise should be enough to stop him following up.
Panther Claw is still progressing over fences and beat Saoirse Dun by 1¾ lengths in 16-runner event at Navan on latest, jumping better than last time. Should relish the emphasis being on stamina.
Start Me Up ran creditably when in frame in quite valuable handicap chases earlier this term, but form has rather tailed off since and jumping has long since been a cause for concern.
Carlingford Lough was a winner of 4 of his 6 starts over hurdles, showing useful level of form in the process. Yet to hit same heights over fences, but less exposed than some and could well be on a handy mark.
Imperial Shabra is a prominently-ridden type who is a fairly useful hurdler/chaser on his day. Has been badly out of sorts for a while now, though.
Liberty Counsel often mixes hurdling with chasing, gaining latest win at Kilbeggan in September. Out of sorts last 2 starts and has plenty on from this mark.
Rapidolyte de Ladalka has registered all 3 wins at Catterick, beating Makethe Mostofnow by length for latest success, outpaced back straight but staying on strongly despite looking awkward. Will stay long distances.
Carloswayback was the winner of Punchestown maiden chase last January and third in a Grade 2 the following month. Still went as if in need of the run at Leopardstown on latest, but doubtful stayer here.
Goonyella won twice in points prior to taking 3-finisher maiden hunter at Limerick and better form when third the next twice, losing nothing in defeat behind Salsify and Tammy’s Hill at Leopardstown.
Our Victoria is a genuine mare who looked on good terms with herself when bagging minor events at Navan and Thurles in September/October. Given a break since failing to fire next 2 starts, but others preferred.
Paddy Pub landed a handicap hurdle last term before finishing fourth in this corresponding race. Looked to be working his way back to form this season, but then had no excuses in Leinster National on latest.
Quietly Fancied was runner-up in Munster National in October, and back to best when taking 11-runner handicap hurdle at Clonmel the following month. Inadequate trip last twice, so entitled to do better here.
1. Sweeney Tunes
2. Home Farm
3. Carlingford Lough
Sweeney Tunes is an upwardly mobile staying chaser who should relish the emphasis being firmly on stamina and looks the one to side with. Home Farm has the scope to go on improving in staying chases and merits plenty of respect, whilst Panthew Claw, Rich Revival, Goonyella and Carlingford Lough all have to enter calculations.
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GRAND NATIONAL 2013 NEWS
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Paul Nicholls has confirmed Daryl Jacob will partner Join Together in the John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree on Saturday.
Nicholls and Jacob combined to take the race with Neptune Collonges 12 months ago and will this time team up with a horse who is a best-priced 20-1 for the four-and-a-half-mile contest.
Jacob’s appointment aboard Join Together would suggest Ruby Walsh is likely to partner the Willie Mullins-trained favourite On His Own.
Nicholls said: “Daryl is going to ride Join Together. He knows the horse well, he rode him in the Becher Chase around there and I’m dead happy he’s going to ride him next week.”
Jacob added: “He ran very well in the Becher for me, but just got a bit bogged down in the ground. I’ve been doing some schooling on him and he seems in really good form, so I’m very much looking forward to it.
“It looks like the ground is going to be good to soft, which would be ideal, and hopefully we have a nice run.”
The champion trainer is also close to finalising jockey bookings for his two other possible National runners, What A Friend and Harry The Viking. Both horses are part-owned by Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Nicholls added: “The plan at the moment is for Sam Thomas to ride What a Friend, and I think Ryan Mahon will ride Harry The Viking. What A Friend could still switch to the other race (the Betfred Bowl on Thursday), so I need to speak to the owners in the week and then make a decision.”
Paul Nolan has quickly secured the services of Robbie Power to ride Joncol. Davy Russell was due to take the ride, but will miss the entire National meeting after failing to gain medical clearance from the British Horseracing Authority as a result of the injury he sustained at the Cheltenham Festival.
Nolan said: “Robbie Power rides him. He knows the horse well and he’s a Grand National-winning jockey (on Silver Birch in 2007), so we’re happy with that.”
JOIN TOGETHER 20-1
Paul Nicholls has always referred to this horse as a staying chaser in the making and his run in the Becher Chase seems to underline those potential qualities. Just held by the gallant Hello Bud at Aintree he looks likely to improve further when tried over extreme distances and his generally clean and efficient jumping marks him down as a horse to watch closely for the Grand National. The handicapper does not appear to have reacted too unfavourably to Join Together’s Becher run so connections must be very hopeful of following up on the stable’s fine win the Grand National.
RARE BOB 33-1
Rare Bob has been a useful handicapper for Dessie Hughes. The Highlight of his career so far is a win a 42k race at Leopardstown in 2010/11. All Rare Bobs wins have come on soft or heavy ground but that is not to say that this is horse is a mudlark as he has run some fine races on good ground. He has finished fourth in an Irish National as well as running good races in the John Smiths Handicap at Aintree in 2010 and again in 2011. This shows that good ground would not be a handicap to him in the Grand National. More of a concern would be the form he showed at the track when tackling the Becher Chase of 2011. Rare Bob’s trainer Dessie Hughes has a fine record in that race and so Rare Bob’s participation was highly anticipated but he weakened badly after the third last and was beaten over sixty lengths into fifth place. Dessie Hughes record over the Aintree fences in recent years would mean that this horse deserves consideration but his performance in the Becher Chase would dampen enthusiasm.
QUISCOVER FONTAINE 50-1
Quiscover Fontaine finished sixth in the 2010 Arkle Chase at Cheltenham to Sizing Europe so has obviously always been well regarded, Quiscover Fontaine was given an entry in the 2011 Grand National but ultimately did not take up that engagement, connections preferring instead to run in the Irish National at Fairyhouse. Willie Mullins had previously kept the French bred gelding at distances up to 2m 5f so his chances at Fairyhouse were rather unknown with relation to him getting the trip. As it turned out he stayed well to finish fourth behind Organisedconfusion. Willie Mullins did run him in the 2012 Grand National and Quiscover Fontaine was still going well when falling at the 17th fence. That run was rather ignored by most pundits as he was a relative outsider but he was still in with a great chance when he came down. Like many recent Grand National winners he has been campaigned partly over hurdles this season indicating that connections believe there is some scope with the horse’s current chase rating and he looks a very lively contender and should definitely be of interest to those punters looking to for an outsider with a good chance. Still engaged in the Irish National so make sure your bet is non-runner no bet if you are backing him for Aintree.
Milesey
Milesy, who do u fancy for 5.15 at Towcester?
DEVENISH ISLAND
Milesey
DEVENISH ISLAND ** WINS **
and that is that for the horses today ;) ;)
Milesey
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APRIL FOOLS DAY
HORSE RACING TIPS
EASTER MONDAY
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All 30 runners in the Easter Monday feature, the Irish Grand National over three miles and five furlongs at Fairyhouse.
Junior jumped fluently when making all to regain winning thread in Rehearsal Chase on reappearance. Out of his depth over fences next 2 starts, but produced laboured effort back hurdling at Cheltenham.
You Must Know Me won his sole hurdles start and has quickly made up into a useful chaser, finding only the rejuvenated Dedigout too good in a novice at Naas last time. Jumping already looks a real asset.
Magnanimity put up creditable efforts when runner-up this season, beaten 3½ lengths by Call The Police in minor event at Clonmel on latest. Showed up well for a long way in this last season, but stamina an issue.
Sweeney Tunes has always looked the type to make a better chaser than hurdler and has progressed well since switched to the larger obstacles, scoring easily in a Grade 2 at Naas on latest. Will stay beyond 3m.
Competitive Edge has got his act together over fences recently, following up his Leopardstown win from a 7 lb higher mark at Gowran last time. In good heart, but marked step up in trip looks a real concern.
Cootamundra is yet to strike over fences, but shown plenty of ability in this sphere, including when third to Savello at Leopardstown. Never once shaped as if wanting a test of stamina like this, though.
He’llberemembered is a useful hurdler who has won twice over fences this season, most recently in a 21f Leopardstown handicap. Not so good at Gowran just 6 days later and jumping is a worry in a big field like this.
Home Farm ran out a wide-margin winner of a maiden hurdle at Thurles (2¼m) and transferred that form to fences when beating White Star Line in maiden here on latest start. Should do better and bred to stay well.
Jacksonlady has done well since switched to fences this season, showing useful form to land an 17f handicap at Leopardstown on latest by 3 lengths from Rubert. Fit from Flat, but unproven beyond 2½m.
Muirhead is a hold-up performer who had to work hard to land the odds in minor chase at Galway in September. Best effort since when fourth to Mount Benbulben at Thurles last time, but much more needed now.
Whodoyouthink is a better chaser than hurdler, winning minor event at Punchestown in May. Can be moody, however, and form has been very patchy this term. One to be wary of.
Rich Revival is very lightly raced for a 9-y-o but quickly making up for lost time over fences this season, making it 3 from 3 when landing the Leinster National at Naas on latest. May do better still.
Marasonnien was a Grade 1 winner as a novice hurdler but is yet to prove as effective over fences, third behind Home Farm in a maiden here on latest. Needs to improve, but couldn’t be in better hands.
Away We Go showed himself better than ever when winning handicap hurdle here in February and yet to race over fences for this yard. Handicapper taken no chances, but by no means a forlorn hope.
Romanesco’s jumping can be sketchy but he posted a useful effort when runner-up to Colbert Station in Paddy Power at Leopardstown in December and ran well when third to Same Difference at Cheltenham on latest.
Cross Appeal won the Paddy Power Handicap Chase at Leopardstown last season, but failed to fire since reappearance and hard to trust on present form.
Jadanli put up his best effort in some time when landing Thyestes Chase at Gowran in January with cheekpieces refitted. Not discredited either start since, but handicapper may well have his measure now.
Questions Answered is a better chaser than hurdler and has produced largely creditable efforts over fences this term, though wasn’t quite at his best when only seventh at Leopardstown on latest.
Blazing Beacon is lightly raced for one his age but proved all ability still remains when winning veterans race at Wexford on return, jumping superbly. 8 lb rise should be enough to stop him following up.
Panther Claw is still progressing over fences and beat Saoirse Dun by 1¾ lengths in 16-runner event at Navan on latest, jumping better than last time. Should relish the emphasis being on stamina.
Start Me Up ran creditably when in frame in quite valuable handicap chases earlier this term, but form has rather tailed off since and jumping has long since been a cause for concern.
Carlingford Lough was a winner of 4 of his 6 starts over hurdles, showing useful level of form in the process. Yet to hit same heights over fences, but less exposed than some and could well be on a handy mark.
Imperial Shabra is a prominently-ridden type who is a fairly useful hurdler/chaser on his day. Has been badly out of sorts for a while now, though.
Liberty Counsel often mixes hurdling with chasing, gaining latest win at Kilbeggan in September. Out of sorts last 2 starts and has plenty on from this mark.
Rapidolyte de Ladalka has registered all 3 wins at Catterick, beating Makethe Mostofnow by length for latest success, outpaced back straight but staying on strongly despite looking awkward. Will stay long distances.
Carloswayback was the winner of Punchestown maiden chase last January and third in a Grade 2 the following month. Still went as if in need of the run at Leopardstown on latest, but doubtful stayer here.
Goonyella won twice in points prior to taking 3-finisher maiden hunter at Limerick and better form when third the next twice, losing nothing in defeat behind Salsify and Tammy’s Hill at Leopardstown.
Our Victoria is a genuine mare who looked on good terms with herself when bagging minor events at Navan and Thurles in September/October. Given a break since failing to fire next 2 starts, but others preferred.
Paddy Pub landed a handicap hurdle last term before finishing fourth in this corresponding race. Looked to be working his way back to form this season, but then had no excuses in Leinster National on latest.
Quietly Fancied was runner-up in Munster National in October, and back to best when taking 11-runner handicap hurdle at Clonmel the following month. Inadequate trip last twice, so entitled to do better here.
1. Sweeney Tunes
2. Home Farm
3. Carlingford Lough
Sweeney Tunes is an upwardly mobile staying chaser who should relish the emphasis being firmly on stamina and looks the one to side with. Home Farm has the scope to go on improving in staying chases and merits plenty of respect, whilst Panthew Claw, Rich Revival, Goonyella and Carlingford Lough all have to enter calculations.
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GRAND NATIONAL 2013 NEWS
————————
Paul Nicholls has confirmed Daryl Jacob will partner Join Together in the John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree on Saturday.
Nicholls and Jacob combined to take the race with Neptune Collonges 12 months ago and will this time team up with a horse who is a best-priced 20-1 for the four-and-a-half-mile contest.
Jacob’s appointment aboard Join Together would suggest Ruby Walsh is likely to partner the Willie Mullins-trained favourite On His Own.
Nicholls said: “Daryl is going to ride Join Together. He knows the horse well, he rode him in the Becher Chase around there and I’m dead happy he’s going to ride him next week.”
Jacob added: “He ran very well in the Becher for me, but just got a bit bogged down in the ground. I’ve been doing some schooling on him and he seems in really good form, so I’m very much looking forward to it.
“It looks like the ground is going to be good to soft, which would be ideal, and hopefully we have a nice run.”
The champion trainer is also close to finalising jockey bookings for his two other possible National runners, What A Friend and Harry The Viking. Both horses are part-owned by Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Nicholls added: “The plan at the moment is for Sam Thomas to ride What a Friend, and I think Ryan Mahon will ride Harry The Viking. What A Friend could still switch to the other race (the Betfred Bowl on Thursday), so I need to speak to the owners in the week and then make a decision.”
Paul Nolan has quickly secured the services of Robbie Power to ride Joncol. Davy Russell was due to take the ride, but will miss the entire National meeting after failing to gain medical clearance from the British Horseracing Authority as a result of the injury he sustained at the Cheltenham Festival.
Nolan said: “Robbie Power rides him. He knows the horse well and he’s a Grand National-winning jockey (on Silver Birch in 2007), so we’re happy with that.”
JOIN TOGETHER 20-1
Paul Nicholls has always referred to this horse as a staying chaser in the making and his run in the Becher Chase seems to underline those potential qualities. Just held by the gallant Hello Bud at Aintree he looks likely to improve further when tried over extreme distances and his generally clean and efficient jumping marks him down as a horse to watch closely for the Grand National. The handicapper does not appear to have reacted too unfavourably to Join Together’s Becher run so connections must be very hopeful of following up on the stable’s fine win the Grand National.
RARE BOB 33-1
Rare Bob has been a useful handicapper for Dessie Hughes. The Highlight of his career so far is a win a 42k race at Leopardstown in 2010/11. All Rare Bobs wins have come on soft or heavy ground but that is not to say that this is horse is a mudlark as he has run some fine races on good ground. He has finished fourth in an Irish National as well as running good races in the John Smiths Handicap at Aintree in 2010 and again in 2011. This shows that good ground would not be a handicap to him in the Grand National. More of a concern would be the form he showed at the track when tackling the Becher Chase of 2011. Rare Bob’s trainer Dessie Hughes has a fine record in that race and so Rare Bob’s participation was highly anticipated but he weakened badly after the third last and was beaten over sixty lengths into fifth place. Dessie Hughes record over the Aintree fences in recent years would mean that this horse deserves consideration but his performance in the Becher Chase would dampen enthusiasm.
QUISCOVER FONTAINE 50-1
Quiscover Fontaine finished sixth in the 2010 Arkle Chase at Cheltenham to Sizing Europe so has obviously always been well regarded, Quiscover Fontaine was given an entry in the 2011 Grand National but ultimately did not take up that engagement, connections preferring instead to run in the Irish National at Fairyhouse. Willie Mullins had previously kept the French bred gelding at distances up to 2m 5f so his chances at Fairyhouse were rather unknown with relation to him getting the trip. As it turned out he stayed well to finish fourth behind Organisedconfusion. Willie Mullins did run him in the 2012 Grand National and Quiscover Fontaine was still going well when falling at the 17th fence. That run was rather ignored by most pundits as he was a relative outsider but he was still in with a great chance when he came down. Like many recent Grand National winners he has been campaigned partly over hurdles this season indicating that connections believe there is some scope with the horse’s current chase rating and he looks a very lively contender and should definitely be of interest to those punters looking to for an outsider with a good chance. Still engaged in the Irish National so make sure your bet is non-runner no bet if you are backing him for Aintree.
Milesey
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