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denphone 11-01-2013 06:11

Re: Horse Racing
 
GROUND KEY TO LONG RUN PLANS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Owner Robert Waley-Cohen believes the weather will dictate if Long Run has another outing before the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The Nicky Henderson-trained chaser regained his King George VI Chase crown in a dour battle with Captain Chris at Kempton on Boxing Day.

His next aim is to reclaim his Gold Cup title, but Waley-Cohen feels he will not run in the Denman Chase at Newbury in February if the ground is very soft.

denphone 11-01-2013 12:47

Re: Horse Racing
 
PUNCHESTOWN THE AIM FOR ZEB

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Colm Murphy will resist the urge to throw Big Zeb back into battle at the Cheltenham Festival.

The 2010 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner has so far not shown the same lustre as in previous seasons, and was last seen finishing fourth behind Sizing Europe in his defence of the Paddy Power Dial-A-Bet Chase at Leopardstown.

Rather than head to Cheltenham in March, Big Zeb will instead have the Punchestown Festival a month later as a conditional aim.

denphone 11-01-2013 18:29

Re: Horse Racing
 
KING WARY OF NEWBURY FOR GRUMETI

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...3&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Alan King admits next month's Betfair Hurdle at Newbury would not be an ideal starting point for Champion Hurdle contender Grumeti.

The five-year-old was among the top rank in the juvenile division last term, finishing third in the Triumph Hurdle before reversing form with Countrywide Flame when winning the Aintree equivalent. He subsquently ran twice on the level, winning at Ascot before being narrowly beaten at Goodwood in May.

However, Grumeti has been off the track since that outing and King has identified the Newbury feature on February 9 as a possible starting point if his hand is forced.

denphone 12-01-2013 06:45

Re: Horse Racing
 
FEAT HANDED CLASSIC ASSIGNMENT

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...3&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Pete The Feat will be seeking his sixth win on the bounce as he steps up to Grade Three company for Charlie Longsdon in the Betfred Classic Chase at Warwick.

The nine-year-old has been a revelation this season, rising from a mark of 94 in October to his current perch of 134 via victories at Uttoxeter, Plumpton, Folkestone, Lingfield and Newbury.

His latest win came in the Mandarin Chase at the Berkshire venue two weeks ago and Longsdon rates the relatively short break between races as his biggest concern for Pete The Feat.

denphone 13-01-2013 06:20

Re: Horse Racing
 
OSCARA LANDS LANZAROTE PRIZE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Oscara Dara ran out a resounding winner of the William Hill Lanzarote Hurdle at Kempton for Nicky Henderson on his return to the smaller obstacles.

Fourth to stablemate Darlan at Aintree, Oscara Dara (5-1) went on to take a race at the Punchestown Festival, but was beaten on his novice chase debut at Plumpton and was not convincing his trainer with his jumping at home.

He cruised into contention in the valuable contest, and although jolting Geraghty at the final flight, he was soon away and three and a half lengths clear of 100-1 shot Romeo Americo.
NEW LOOKS A SPECIAL ONE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

The New One oozed class as he made the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at Warwick a sixth success from seven career starts for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies and his jockey son Sam.

The five-year-old's relentless gallop from the front found out his rivals one by one, and as he swept round the home turn the 1-2 favourite was in total command, eventually scoring by 16 lengths and 21 from Mickie and Hold Court.

His claims for the Neptune Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham were given a boost even though - as his trainer pointed out - he was not tested. Paddy Power make The New One 8-1 from 12s for the Festival race.

denphone 13-01-2013 14:22

Re: Horse Racing
 
NO FESTIVAL PREP FOR JEZKI

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Jessica Harrington has confirmed her Supreme Novices' Hurdle favourite Jezki is set to head straight to the Cheltenham Festival in March without another run.

The five-year-old stretched his unbeaten record over hurdles to four with a brilliant display at Leopardstown over the Christmas period and leading owner JP McManus has since purchased the gelding.

Harrington suggested immediately after his Leopardstown romp that Jezki could return to the track for next month's Deloitte Novice Hurdle, but she has now decided to keep him fresh for his big day in March.

denphone 14-01-2013 06:12

Re: Horse Racing
 
PEARL COULD ENTER CHAMPION PICTURE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Paul Nicholls has revealed Pearl Swan is to get an entry in the Stan James Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.

The five-year-old has not been seen since falling in the JCB Triumph Hurdle at the Festival last year, before which he had dead-heated with Grumeti on trials day at Prestbury Park.

Owned by Robin Geffen, Pearl Swan is one of a number of Ditcheat runners under consideration for the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury on February 9, which Nicholls won last year with Zarkandar, who went on to be fifth in the Champion.

denphone 14-01-2013 13:59

Re: Horse Racing
 
CAUSE LANDS NAVAN THRILLER

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Cause Of Causes got up on the line to deny Midnight Game in a thrilling finish to the Follow Navan On Facebook Hurdle at Navan.

Midnight Game was the 5-6 favourite to complete a hat-trick for Willie Mullins and Davy Russell, with the Gordon Elliott-trained Cause Of Causes 6-4 to follow up his lucrative victory in The Ladbroke at Ascot last month. Hisaabaat was the only other runner.

Midnight Game led for most of the two-mile journey and looked sure to win as he travelled powerfully into the straight with Russell motionless, but Davy Condon kept working on Cause Of Causes and was rewarded as his mount winged the last and galloped strongly to the line to get up by a short head.

denphone 15-01-2013 07:38

Re: Horse Racing
 
SPRINTER TOPS CHANDLER CONTENDERS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Sprinter Sacre is one of nine confirmations for the Victor Chandler Chase at Ascot on Saturday.

Nicky Henderson's seven-year-old is unbeaten in six starts over fences and was a brilliant winner of the Tingle Creek at Sandown on his seasonal reappearance in early December.

He would appear to face a relatively straightforward task, with the Paul Nicholls-trained Sanctuaire the second highest-rated horse in the field.

He was over 19 lengths behind Henderson's charge in the Tingle Creek and subsequently won the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton.

denphone 15-01-2013 12:39

Re: Horse Racing
 
FRANKEL CROWNED EQUINE BEST

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Retired equine superstar Frankel has been officially crowned the highest-rated horse in history after being given a final mark of 140 by the group of international handicappers who compile the World Thoroughbred Rankings.

Announced at a press conference in London, Sir Henry Cecil's colt is rated 2lb better than Dancing Brave, whose mark of 141 after the 1986 season has been downgraded to 138.

Dancing Brave had been the highest rated since the international rankings system started in 1977, but the handicappers had conceded that the techniques to create the rankings these days are different to those in the past, meaning many horses from the 1970s and 80s have elevated figures compared with what they would achieve today.
A honour fully deserved for a great champion.

denphone 16-01-2013 06:38

Re: Horse Racing
 
CIRRUS NOT CERTAIN FOR DUBAI

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Trainer Corine Barande-Barbe has warned Cirrus Des Aigles is not certain to head to this year's Dubai Carnival as he continues to recover from injury.

The seven-year-old kicked off an excellent campaign by winning the Dubai Sheema Classic on World Cup night last March, going on to claim the Prix Ganay and the Prix Dollar at Longchamp before finding only Frankel too strong when defending his crown in the Champion Stakes at Ascot.

Cirrus Des Aigles then travelled to the Far East to contest the Hong Kong Cup but had to be withdrawn after suffering a ligament injury, and his trainer is unsure whether he will be ready for a return to Dubai.

denphone 16-01-2013 11:14

Re: Horse Racing
 
A NEW DAWN RISING

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Jim Bolger's Dawn Approach maintained the recent dominance of Irish juveniles as he was crowned the champion two-year-old on the European Thoroughbred Rankings.

Unbeaten in six races, including the National Stakes and Dewhurst, the Godolphin-owned son of New Approach received a respectable rating of 124 and was upwards of 6lb ahead of his peers.

Garry O'Gorman, the senior Irish handicapper who is part of the ratings process, said: "Dawn Approach is the seventh Irish-trained champion or joint-champion in the last eight years, which we're obviously pleased about, but it was not a vintage bunch of two-year-olds."

denphone 16-01-2013 14:52

Re: Horse Racing
 
RUBY FEATURES IN CHAMPION ENTRY

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Titleholder Rock On Ruby is one of the last four winners among 34 entries for the Stan James Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham on March 12.

Hurricane Fly, successful in 2011, Binocular (2010) and Punjabi (2009) are the past champions who could try to regain their crown.

Last season it was Rock On Ruby's turn when he was officially in the hands of Paul Nicholls, but under the supervision of rookie trainer Harry Fry. And he made an encouraging seasonal reappearance for Fry when third behind fellow Champion hopefuls Zarkandar and Grandouet in the StanJames.com International Hurdle at Cheltenham in December.

denphone 17-01-2013 06:29

Re: Horse Racing
 
FAGO LIVES UP TO BILLING ON UK BOW

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Paul Nicholls' French import Fago made an impressive British debut in the Betfred Double Delight Novices' Chase at Newbury.

Although seen to good effect over longer distances in France, Graham Wylie's purchase was dropped down to two miles and a furlong here and is considered a prospect for the Arkle Trophy.

Sent off a well-backed 5-4 favourite, the dark-coloured gelding was slick over his fences and pushed out by Ruby Walsh to finish three and a half lengths clear of Ohio Gold.

denphone 18-01-2013 06:14

Re: Horse Racing
 
SACRE TOPS CHANDLER SEVEN

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Sprinter Sacre is set to face six rivals in Saturday's Victor Chandler Chase at Ascot, if the meeting survives a 4.30pm precautionary inspection on Friday.

Nicky Henderson has described the gelding as his "big black aeroplane" and the seven-year-old is unbeaten in his six starts over fences. In his sole outing so far this season, he dished out a 19-and-a-half-length beating to Sanctuaire, who was thought to be the only two-miler capable of giving him a race.

Paul Nicholls has decided to pitch Sanctuaire against his old rival again after he returned to winning ways at Kempton over Christmas

denphone 18-01-2013 12:59

Re: Horse Racing
 
HENDERSON HOPING FOR SACRE OUTING

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Nicky Henderson is keeping his fingers crossed Ascot can defy the grip of the weather so that he can get a much-needed start into Sprinter Sacre on Saturday.

The Seven Barrows trainer wants to get just one run into the hot favourite for the Queen Mother Champion Chase and the timing of the Victor Chandler Chase is ideal ahead of Cheltenham in March.

Should Ascot fall at a 4.30pm precautionary inspection today, it would give Henderson another headache with the Festival less than two months awa

denphone 18-01-2013 17:18

Re: Horse Racing
 
ASCOT SUCCUMBS TO SNOW

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

SNOW CLAIMS HAYDOCK AND TAUNTON

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

denphone 20-01-2013 06:06

Re: Horse Racing
 
SOLWHIT STRIKES NAAS GOLD

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Solwhit showed his rivals a clean pair of heels as he ran out an impressive winner of the Grade Three Limestone Lad Hurdle at Naas on a big day for Davy Russell.

The nine-year-old, a six-time Grade One winner who recently returned to action after being sidelined for nearly two years, was sent off the 4-5 favourite and cruised up to brave front-runner Whatuthink coming to the penultimate flight.

Russell, on his way to four winners, only had to give the signal for his mount to hit the front and although market rival So Young tried to make a battle of it, his effort ended with a poor jump at the last, and Solwhit cleared away to score by four lengths.

denphone 21-01-2013 06:24

Re: Horse Racing
 
HEADGEAR CONSIDERED FOR RUN

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Long Run is likely to wear cheekpieces when he bids to regain his crown in the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup in March.

Owner Robert Waley-Cohen said the application of that type of headgear was "under serious consideration" for the eight-year-old, who was victorious in the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day for a second time.

"It is definitely under serious consideration for the Gold Cup. Whether he will wear them beforehand I don't know," he said.

denphone 21-01-2013 16:03

Re: Horse Racing
 
STAYERS CONVENE FOR CLASSY CLEEVE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Several leading fancies for the Ladbrokes World Hurdle, including Oscar Whisky, are among 16 entries for the Rewards4Racing Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham on Saturday.

Trainer Nicky Henderson is keen to try the eight-year-old over three miles again as he felt Oscar Whisky was not right when fifth to Big Buck's in the stayers' championship last March. Oscar Whisky has won his three subsequent starts, including the Relkeel Hurdle over an extended two and a half miles on this track last month.

denphone 22-01-2013 06:21

Re: Horse Racing
 
STARS ALIGN FOR STELLAR NEPTUNE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

The New One, Puffin Billy and Coneygree could all clash in a mouthwatering renewal of the Grade Two Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham on Saturday.

Nigel Twiston-Davies' The New One looked electric in winning at Warwick recently, while Puffin Billy is unbeaten in four starts for Oliver Sherwood.

Mark Bradstock's Coneygree showed a great attitude when twice victorious at Cheltenham earlier in the season.

denphone 22-01-2013 16:28

Re: Horse Racing
 
ELEVEN ENTRIES FOR VC CHASE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

The reopened Victor Chandler Chase at Cheltenham on Saturday has attracted 11 entries, including Sprinter Sacre.

Nicky Henderson's Arkle winner is the headline act in the race, which has been transferred from last Saturday's abandoned Ascot card.

However, Cheltenham's meeting is also still in the balance.


---------- Post added at 15:28 ---------- Previous post was at 13:52 ----------

NO ADDITIONS TO TRIAL FIELD

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

No extra entries were received for the reopened StanJames.com Champion Hurdle Trial, rescheduled for Doncaster this weekend.

The race was saved from Haydock's abandoned card last week, but unfortunately Doncaster's meeting is also in the balance due to the freeze.

If the meeting were to take place, a cracking contest is in store with 2010 Champion Hurdle hero Binocular and 2011 runner-up Peddlers Cross among the entries, although the former is also in at Leopardstown on Sunday.



denphone 23-01-2013 08:33

Re: Horse Racing
 
CHAMPIONS ON SHOW AT LEOPARDSTOWN

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Two former Champion Hurdle winners are set to clash at Leopardstown on Sunday, with Hurricane Fly and Binocular among six remaining possible runners in the BHP Irish Champion Hurdle.

The Willie Mullins-trained Hurricane Fly is going for a hat-trick in Ireland's feature hurdle race and has looked right back to his best this season in winning the Morgiana and the Istabraq Festival Hurdle.

"He's in great shape. Looking at him coming off the gallops on Monday morning he's fit and ready," Mullins told At The Races. "Hopefully then we'll just count down to Sunday.

denphone 23-01-2013 16:39

Re: Horse Racing
 
WISHES SET SACRE TEST

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

William's Wishes will go toe-to-toe with Sprinter Sacre in the rearranged Victor Chandler Chase at Cheltenham this weekend.

The eight-year-old gelding is a notoriously bad worker at his home in Wales, but is unbeaten in five starts over fences and looked most impressive at Sandown earlier this month.

"We'll be running him at Cheltenham," said trainer Evan Williams.

denphone 24-01-2013 08:32

Re: Horse Racing
 
TIME CALLED ON BIG ZEB CAREER

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Big Zeb, winner of the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham in 2010, has been retired.

Trainer Colm Murphy took the decision to call time on the 12-year-old's highly successful racing career due to problems with the horse's joints. Big Zeb has not responded well enough to treatment after he finished fourth to Sizing Europe in the Dial-A-Bet Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas.

"It's a pity, but unfortunately he's had a few niggly problems," said the County Wexford handler.

"He didn't come out of Leopardstown as well as we'd hoped. His joints are troubling him a little bit. He deserves his retirement now.

denphone 25-01-2013 06:42

Re: Horse Racing
 
BOBS WORTH RULED OUT OF ARGENTO

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Bobs Worth, ante-post favourite for the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup, will not run in the Argento Chase at Cheltenham this weekend.

The Nicky Henderson-trained eight-year-old was found to be not quite 100% following a routine check-up earlier in the week. He will now contest the Gold Cup on March 15 without a prep run.

Henderson told Press Association Sport: "Bobs Worth is not going to be able to run on Saturday, which is very disappointing for everybody, including the owners. We very much wanted to run, but the good thing is it doesn't affect March in any way."

denphone 26-01-2013 06:24

Re: Horse Racing
 
CRUS IN GRAND FORM FOR ARGENTO

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

David Pipe thinks Grands Crus should be sharper than when he ran in the King George VI Chase when he lines up in the Argento Chase at Cheltenham.

The grey was having his first start since a wind operation at Kempton, where he finished third behind Long Run and Captain Chris.

"We've been fine with the weather and he's done everything that we've needed him to do at home. He's all set to go, and we'll find out at the weekend whether he gets three miles and one (furlong) or not," said the Pond House handler.

denphone 26-01-2013 15:02

Re: Horse Racing
 
STAR STAKES TRIUMPH CLAIM

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Rolling Star mastered Irish Saint close home to make a winning British debut in the JCB Triumph Hurdle Trial at Cheltenham.

Irish Saint and Ruby Walsh cut out much of the running in the Grade Two contest, but Barry Geraghty shadowed his every move aboard Rolling Star and it was clear heading down the hill the pair were a cut above their rivals.

Walsh's mount still held a narrow advantage approaching the final flight and jumped it the better, but Geraghty had not gone for everything and when he did Rolling Star picked up well to go on and score by two and a quarter lengths. Roc D'Apsis was some 30 lengths further back in third.

denphone 26-01-2013 18:25

Re: Horse Racing
 
SUPER SACRE IN VC STROLL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Sprinter Sacre took Grade One honours in the Victor Chandler Chase at Cheltenham with his now-customary panache.

Nicky Henderson's pride and joy was again electric at his fences, taking it up on the run to the sixth-last after Mad Moose had opened a sizeable early advantage on the field.

Barry Geraghty quickened matters noticeably going to three out and while Sanctuaire crept into it from the rear, his threat was only a fleeting one and Sprinter Sacre was majestic over the last two fences as he eased over the line with 14 lengths to spare from the rallying Mad Moose.

Geraghty said: "He's so natural, he's one of the most natural I've ridden. I was afraid of the ground and didn't think it would suit him as well. He was very relaxed today, he jumped brilliant and I never had a moment's concern. He was very good.
Wow another sparkling performance from this superstar.:tu:

denphone 27-01-2013 06:08

Re: Horse Racing
 
CAPE CRUSADER IS ARGENTO KING

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Cape Tribulation put himself in the Gold Cup picture with a last-gasp success in the Argento Chase at Cheltenham.

In an attritional renewal, only the winner, Hunt Ball and Imperial Commander were in contention from quite some way out as gruelling conditions took a toll, with Cape Tribulation in the slipstream of the other two under a superb waiting ride from Denis O'Regan.

Hunt Ball gave way in the straight and just as Imperial Commander, the 2010 Gold Cup winner having his start for 680 days, looked like he had done enough, the Malcolm Jefferson-trained Cape Tribulation (7-1) dramatically got up on the line.
REVE HANGS ON IN CLEEVE THRILLER

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Reve De Sivola was all out to hang on from Oscar Whisky in a pulsating finish to the Rewards4Racing Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham.

The eventual winner was always prominent under Richard Johnson, while in contrast Barry Geraghty sat waiting as long as he could to preserve the runner-up's unproven stamina.

The Nick Williams-trained Reve De Sivola edged clear of gallant leader Knockara Beau after two out, but Geraghty looked like he might have timed matters to absolute perfection at the last and it was only after a long battle up the run-in that Reve De Sivola (15-8 favourite) got the verdict by a neck.

denphone 27-01-2013 11:27

Re: Horse Racing
 
FISHERS SHOWS FIGHTING SPIRIT

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

At Fishers Cross took a giant step up in class in his stride to land the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham under a power-packed finish from Tony McCoy.

In what looked a strong renewal, Coneygree set out to make all and had At Fishers Cross (13-2) and The New One for company approaching the business end.

Coneygree was the first to crack as the others queued up, and it was The New One who led over the last. However, McCoy was in no mood to surrender on the Rebecca Curtis-trained winner, who responded to every call in taking the Grade Two event by a neck from the 4-5 favourite.

denphone 27-01-2013 17:52

Re: Horse Racing
 
HURRICANE BLOWS AWAY RIVALS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Willie Mullins hailed Hurricane Fly as back to his very best as recorded his third successive win in the BHP Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown in most impressive fashion.

The nine-year-old (1-6 favourite) never came off the bridle in registering his 14th Grade One success, setting himself up perfectly for his bid to regain the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Thousand Stars made it a decent gallop in atrocious weather, but when Ruby Walsh made his move rounding the home turn he soon skipped well clear, before easing over the line with a five-length advantage. His stablemate held Binocular, who travelled well for a long way, by a nose for second.

denphone 28-01-2013 06:13

Re: Horse Racing
 
GOLD CUP NEXT FOR IMPERIAL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Imperial Commander will head straight back to Cheltenham in a bid to reclaim the Betfred Gold Cup following his fine effort in the Argento Chase.

The 12-year-old went agonisingly close to making a triumphant return when he was caught in the dying strides by Cape Tribulation on Saturday, in his first race since he was pulled up in the Gold Cup some 680 days earlier.

Trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies told At The Races: "It was heartbreaking to see him mugged on the line, but yet again he showed all his doubters wrong. He can come back and hopefully is as good as ever."

denphone 28-01-2013 16:01

Re: Horse Racing
 
PONT CONFIRMS FIRST IMPRESSION

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Pont Alexandre looks a future star for trainer Willie Mullins after he ran out a mightily impressive winner of the Synergy Security Solutions Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown.

On a day when stablemate Hurricane Fly stole the show in the BHP Irish Champion Hurdle, Pont Alexandre confirmed his arrival on the scene with a stylish display as part of a four-timer for the trainer.

He had looked a bit special with a highly convincing successful first run for Mullins and owner Rich Ricci in a Grade One at Navan last month and the five-year-old reinforced that impression when making all the running in the pouring rain under Ruby Walsh.

denphone 29-01-2013 08:54

Re: Horse Racing
 
GERAGHTY EXPECTS BETTER OF OSCAR

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Barry Geraghty believes Oscar Whisky was not at his best in the Cleeve Hurdle on Saturday, despite him proving his stamina over three miles.

Nicky Henderson's dual Aintree Hurdle winner has posed an ante-post conundrum for punters, with some believing he holds a lively chance in the Champion Hurdle and others thinking he is tailor-made for the World Hurdle.

Saturday's run was only the second time he has tackled the World Hurdle trip of three miles, after finishing fifth in the big race last season, and he went down only narrowly in heavy ground to Reve De Sivola. However, Geraghty did not feel comfortable at any stage, suggesting better can be expected in March.

denphone 29-01-2013 14:24

Re: Horse Racing
 
MEADE KEEN ON MONKSLAND CHANCE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Noel Meade would not swap Monksland for any other horse in what looks set to be a wide-open renewal of the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

With four-time winner Big Buck's sidelined by injury, the stage is set for a new staying star to step up to the plate in March, but at this stage it is difficult to know how many of the leading contenders will even run in the race, let alone which one will win it.

Reve De Sivola and Oscar Whisky dispute favouritism after finishing first and second respectively in Saturday's Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham and Monksland would appear third in line, with leading mare Quevega unlikely to line up and doubts over the participation of Tidal Bay.

denphone 29-01-2013 17:31

Re: Horse Racing
 
SIZING TOPS SEVEN FOR TIED TEST

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Sizing Europe could face up to six rivals when he defends his crown in the Boylesports.com Tied Cottage Chase at Punchestown on Sunday.

Henry de Bromhead's brilliant 11-year-old has appeared as good as ever in winning his three starts this season and is set to take in this weekend's Grade Two test en route to the Cheltenham Festival in March.

His target has not yet been decided, with the Queen Mother Champion Chase, which he won in 2011, the Ryanair Chase and the Cheltenham Gold Cup all under consideration at this stage.

denphone 30-01-2013 08:52

Re: Horse Racing
 
SEVEN IN CHALLENGERS RECKONING

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

No extra entries were received for the reopened Betfred Mobile Lotto Challengers Novices' Chase at Sandown on Saturday.

Nicky Henderson's Captain Conan is the headline act in the race, which is better known as the Scilly Isles Novices' Chase, having already won at Grade One level.

In any other yard he would be a massive hope for the Arkle, but with Simonsig also hailing from Seven Barrows, Henderson is keen to see if the two-and-a-half-mile trip suits.

denphone 30-01-2013 17:43

Re: Horse Racing
 
GRAND NATIONAL ATTRACTS 84 ENTRIES

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Last year's placed horses feature among 84 entries for the John Smith's Grand National at Aintree on April 6.

Winner Neptune Collonges has been retired, but runner-up Sunnyhillboy, who was denied by a nose, third Seabass and fourth home Cappa Bleu are all again possible for the £975,000 showpiece.

Former Gold Cup hero Imperial Commander has also been entered, although his participation is thought unlikely. A tweet from his owners Imperial Racing read: "Please RT Imperial Commander Grand National - He is entered but his main and probably only target is the Gold Cup!".

denphone 31-01-2013 08:36

Re: Horse Racing
 
FLEMENSTAR WELL AS HENNESSY LOOMS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Peter Casey believes Flemenstar is "better than he ever was" ahead of the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Saturday week.

Having looked all over the winner rounding the home turn on his first attempt at three miles in the Lexus Chase last month, the seven-year-old began to tread water after the final fence and was caught close home by both Tidal Bay and First Lieutenant in a barnstorming finish.

Given he was beaten just three-quarters of a length, connections are keen to have a second attempt at the longer distance in the Hennessy.

denphone 31-01-2013 12:17

Re: Horse Racing
 
RUBY SET FOR DONCASTER OUTING

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Harry Fry has confirmed last year's Champion Hurdle hero Rock On Ruby is "quite likely" to run in the 32Red Hurdle at Doncaster's additional fixture on Monday.

Fry had initially hoped to see his charge complete his preparations for the defence of his Cheltenham crown in this weekend's Betfred Mobile Sports Contenders Hurdle, but effectively ruled him out of the race earlier this week due the extremely testing conditions at Sandown.

The trainer then identified the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton on February 16 as the most likely port of call for his stable star, but he has now had a change of heart after the British Horseracing Authority gave the green light to a new Doncaster meeting, featuring the Listed 32Red Hurdle.

denphone 31-01-2013 16:19

Re: Horse Racing
 
BIG GUNS IN NEPTUNE FRAME

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Pont Alexandre and The New One are the star names among a huge list of 119 entries for the Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

The Willie Mullins-trained Pont Alexandre leapt to the head of the ante-post betting with a brilliant front-running display at Leopardstown last weekend, supplementing his impressive Irish debut in the Navan Novice Hurdle.

The five-year-old is one of 35 Irish-trained entries, with Mullins unsurprisingly strong-armed with the likes of Champagne Fever, Ballycasey, Pique Sous and Un Atout all engaged, although the majority have alternative entries in the other novice hurdles at the Festival.

denphone 01-02-2013 06:44

Re: Horse Racing
 
HENDERSON STAR AMONG TRIUMPH HOPES

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Ante-post favourite Rolling Star features among 58 entries for the JCB Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham on March 15.

The French import leapt to the head of the market for the four-year-old championship when making an impressive British debut for Nicky Henderson on Festival Trials Day at Cheltenham on Saturday.

The Seven Barrows trainer has won the Triumph Hurdle five times and his other entries are Alexandre Six, Courtesy Call, Megalypos and Vasco du Ronceray.

denphone 01-02-2013 13:50

Re: Horse Racing
 
CAPTAIN TAKES SANDOWN CHALLENGE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Barry Geraghty is convinced a step up to two and a half miles will suit Captain Conan in Saturday's Betfred Mobile Lotto Challengers Novices' Chase at Sandown.

The high-class novice hurdler has been hugely impressive in his two starts over fences to date, making a winning debut over the larger obstacles at Cheltenham in November before landing the Grade One Henry VIII Novices' Chase at Sandown in December.

denphone 01-02-2013 18:43

Re: Horse Racing
 
HUNT BALL OUT OF GOLD CUP

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Hunt Ball is set to have his sights lowered after being officially scratched from the Betfred Gold Cup at Cheltenham next month.

The Keiran Burke-trained eight-year-old ran a fine race in defeat at Cheltenham last weekend when third to Cape Tribulation and Imperial Commander in the Argento Chase.

Second to Menorah in the Peterborough Chase prior to that at Kempton over Christmas, the career of the Anthony Knott-owned gelding has been a rags-to-riches tale, and he will now attempt to add to it in the Byrne Group Plate at the Festival meeting.

denphone 02-02-2013 08:44

Re: Horse Racing
 
OVERTURN PRIMED FOR ARKLE PREP

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Leading Arkle hope Overturn faces three opponents as he completes his racecourse preparations for next month's Cheltenham Festival in the Scottish Arkle Novices' Chase at Musselburgh on Sunday.

Trainer Donald McCain played a big part in persuading the racecourse to put on an extra two-mile novice chase and the track has been rewarded with last season's Champion Hurdle runner-up facing a fascinating duel with the Nicky Henderson-trained Tetlami.

denphone 02-02-2013 13:17

Re: Horse Racing
 
FLY IN TOP FORM

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Willie Mullins reports Hurricane Fly to be in fine form following his impressive Irish Champion Hurdle victory.

While the nine-year-old won two Grade Ones last term, he relinquished his Champion Hurdle title at Cheltenham in what was a slightly disappointing performance.

However, he has been in excellent form this season, winning the Morgiana and Festival Hurdles before his comfortable five-length verdict at Leopardstown last weekend.

Mullins said: "He is fine and has come out of his race very well and is back in the form he was in two years ago.

denphone 02-02-2013 15:43

Re: Horse Racing
 
CONFUSION TO MISS AINTREE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

John Smith's Grand National hope Organisedconfusion has sustained a leg injury and is out for the rest of the campaign.

However, trainer Arthur Moore expects the eight-year-old to be back in action next season.

"He has a hairline fracture in his off-hind pastern bone. He will make a full recovery for next season, but he's out for the rest of this year," said the Naas handler.

denphone 03-02-2013 05:56

Re: Horse Racing
 
CLOSE CALL AS CAPTAIN GRABS PRIZE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Captain Conan was made to pull out all the stops by Third Intention in the Betfred Mobile Lotto Challengers Novices' Chase at Sandown.

Nicky Henderson's rising star (1-2 favourite) had already dished out two previous beatings to Colin Tizzard's chaser, at Cheltenham and Sandown, but he only asserted his authority in the final strides on this occasion in the race better known as the Scilly Isles.

With Henderson looking for an answer to Captain Conan's Cheltenham target, his charge looked in trouble some way out as Third Intention forged clear. However, the leader found the Sandown hill too much as Barry Geraghty seized the opportunity to galvanise Captain Conan and win by a neck.

denphone 03-02-2013 13:02

Re: Horse Racing
 
RUBY AND DARLAN CLASH AT DONCASTER

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Last year's Champion Hurdle hero Rock On Ruby heads a small but select field of just four runners in the 32Red Hurdle at Doncaster on Monday.

Impressive Christmas Hurdle winner Darlan and Countrywide Flame, winner of the Triumph and Fighting Fifth Hurdles, add plenty of spice to a Listed contest run on a card added by the British Horseracing Authority last week following the spate of recent abandonments.

Completing the quartet is Clerk's Choice, who is no slouch and was sixth to Hurricane Fly in the Champion Hurdle at the 2011 Cheltenham Festival.

denphone 04-02-2013 06:18

Re: Horse Racing
 
SIZING HAS IT ALL TIED UP AGAIN

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Sizing Europe repeated last year's success in the Boylesports.com Tied Cottage Chase with an emphatic display at Punchestown.

Henry de Bromhead's top-class 11-year-old has now won all his four starts this winter after disposing of the gallant Foildubh.

Andrew Lynch made all the running on the 1-8 shot and only Foildubh could keep tabs on him, flattering briefly but being put in his place from the second-last fence, though the winner did not appear quite his usual brilliant self in scoring by 10 lengths.
HAYDOCK TARGET FOR CONEYGREE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Coneygree is set to run at Haydock before going for glory in the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

There is a race of the same name over three miles at the Merseyside track on February 16 for Mark Bradstock's charge, who was third behind At Fishers Cross at Cheltenham on his latest start after winning his two previous races there.

"He didn't handle the extreme ground. Mattie (Batchelor) said he never carried him like he did in the last two races when it was soft, but that was extreme," said Bradstock's wife, Sara.

"He is still a big baby. The winner was interestingly a second-season novice.

denphone 04-02-2013 12:33

Re: Horse Racing
 
OVERTURN SWITCHES ON POWER

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Overturn turned in another superb front-running display to keep his unbeaten record over fences intact in the Scottish Arkle Novices' Chase at Musselburgh.

Donald McCain's dual-purpose performer, sent off the 1-5 favourite following impressive rounds of jumping at Sandown and Doncaster, was soon adopting his customary trailblazing tactics and even with a circuit to go it was clear main rival Tetlami was struggling to keep tabs on him.

Jason Maguire continued to wind up the tempo heading down the back, with some fine leaps keeping the pressure on, and by the time he rounded the final turn Overturn was well clear. He safely negotiated the remaining obstacles in the straight to score by an emphatic 29 lengths.

denphone 04-02-2013 16:11

Re: Horse Racing
 
MOZOLTOV BOOKS FESTIVAL TICKET

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Mozoltov got the better of Don Cossack in a duel up the straight to take the Racing UK Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle at Punchestown.

Ruby Walsh enjoyed the run of the race on the Willie Mullins-trained seven-year-old (9-4), who jumped into the lead at the second-last after Starkie had led for most of the Grade Two contest.

He was strongly pressed by Don Cossack, but was quicker away from the final flight and kept the 6-5 favourite at bay by a length.

Mullins said: "Mozoltov has been doing good work at home and I've been waiting for a nice race to get him out instead of taking on one of our own. I didn't think he'd be taking on as good a bunch as these and he has to go into the top drawer.

denphone 04-02-2013 20:47

Re: Horse Racing
 
Darlan suffers fatal fall in Doncaster race

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/horse-racing/21327511

Quote:

Leading Cheltenham Champion Hurdle fancy Darlan suffered a fatal fall while competing in Monday's trial race at Doncaster.
The six-year-old, who was ridden by champion jockey Tony McCoy, fell heavily at the last hurdle and suffered a broken neck.
At the time he had been putting down a strong challenge to last year's Champion Hurdle winner Rock On Ruby.
Very sad news indeed.:(

denphone 05-02-2013 08:14

Re: Horse Racing
 
BIG GUNS HOLD SWAY IN HENNESSY

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Flemenstar and Sir Des Champs are the star names among eight confirmations for what promises to be a fantastic renewal of the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Saturday.

Peter Casey's Flemenstar is set for his second appearance over the three-mile trip, having been caught close home by Tidal Bay and First Lieutenant in the Lexus Chase over Saturday's course and distance on December 28.

The eight-year-old holds entries in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, the Ryanair Chase and the Gold Cup at next month's Cheltenham Festival.

denphone 05-02-2013 14:24

Re: Horse Racing
 
COURT PRIMED FOR FESTIVAL PREP

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Champion Court is set to complete his racecourse preparations for Cheltenham in Friday's kempton.co.uk Graduation Chase.

An excellent second to Sir Des Champs in the Jewson Novices' Chase at last year's Festival, the eight-year-old has continued his good form this season and was last seen finishing an excellent fourth in the King George VI Chase.

Having seemingly failed to get home over three miles in the Boxing Day showpiece, Champion Court is set to come back in trip at Kempton before a tilt at the two-mile-five-furlong Ryanair Chase next month.

denphone 05-02-2013 18:49

Re: Horse Racing
 
CONTI FEATURES IN DENMAN NINE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Leading Cheltenham Gold Cup contender Silviniaco Conti could face up to eight rivals in Saturday's Betfair Denman Chase at Newbury.

The three-mile Grade Two, which now carries the name of Silviniaco Conti's former Gold Cup and dual Hennessy-winning stablemate, was reopened for 24 hours on Monday after failing to attract enough entries.

Silviniaco Conti was a top novice last season and has taken his game to another level this season, running away with the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on his seasonal return before beating former Gold Cup hero Long Run in the Betfair Chase at Haydock in November.

denphone 06-02-2013 05:48

Re: Horse Racing
 
SEABASS ON COURSE FOR NATIONAL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Last year's Grand National third Seabass confirmed himself a major contender for this season's renewal of the Aintree spectacular with a tremendous comeback run over hurdles at Fairyhouse.

The Ted Walsh-trained 10-year-old was a heavily supported joint-favourite for the world's most famous steeplechase last April and gave the trainer's daughter Katie Walsh a fantastic spin to be beaten just five lengths.

Making his first appearance since in a two-mile hurdle race, Seabass was hardly going to be seen to best effect but ran on strongly to fill the runner-up spot behind the impressive Rock Critic.

denphone 06-02-2013 15:04

Re: Horse Racing
 
JONCOL SEEKING HENNESSY GOLD

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Paul Nolan is hoping Joncol can put his troubles behind him when he bids to lift the Hennessy Gold Cup for a second time at Leopardstown on Saturday.

Nolan had the 10-year-old, winner of this race in 2010, treated for a back problem as he felt Joncol was not jumping his fences with his usually fluency and accuracy.

The County Wexford handler is happy once again with the condition of his stable stalwart and is looking forward to saddling him in the big three-mile contest.

denphone 07-02-2013 07:59

Re: Horse Racing
 
BABY AIMING TO BE IN BETFAIR MIX

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Tom George is hopeful Baby Mix is returning to something like his best ahead of the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury on Saturday.

The five-year-old looked destined for the top when winning at Cheltenham and in the Adonis Hurdle at Kempton last season, but he disappointed in the Triumph Hurdle and has failed to sparkle in two starts this term.
SOLWHIT NOT CERTAIN FOR FESTIVAL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Charles Byrnes has revealed it is "50-50 at best" stable star Solwhit will line up in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at next month's Cheltenham Festival.

Despite being sidelined for almost two years by injury, the six-time Grade One winner has returned seemingly as good as ever this winter. He ran a fine comeback race behind Bog Warrior at Punchestown in December and took another step forward to beat the talented So Young in last month's Limestone Lad Hurdle at Naas.

denphone 07-02-2013 19:19

Re: Horse Racing
 
BRIAN STILL IN CHELTENHAM FRAME


http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu


Quote:

Bold Sir Brian could still line up at Cheltenham, despite being scratched from both the Betfred Gold Cup and the Ryanair Chase.

The JLT Specialty Handicap Chase is the likely target at next month's Festival for the Lucinda Russell-trained seven-year-old, who took a heavy fall in the Murphy Group Chase at Cheltenham last month.

"We've been speaking to the owners and what we're going to do with him is aim for the big ones at Cheltenham next season. It's a year too early for him," said the Kinross handler.


denphone 08-02-2013 05:17

Re: Horse Racing
 
HUNTER'S LIGHTS UP MEYDAN

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...Meydan&day=Fri

Quote:

Saeed bin Suroor's Hunter's Light showed a smart change of gear to claim round two of the Al Maktoum Challenge at Meydan under Silvestre de Sousa.

The Group Two attracted a top quality field, with former Andre Fabre inmate Saint Baudolino making his debut for Mahmood Al Zarooni. Await The Dawn was another fascinating participant, a former winner of the Hardwicke Stakes for Aidan O'Brien, but now trained by South African maestro Mike de Kock.

While that pair were held up, 7-2 shot Hunter's Light was never far off the pace in the extended nine-furlong contest and quickened up to go by Surfer in the straight and win decisively. Another Godolphin runner, Prince Bishop, picked up minor honours in third, with Saint Baudolino doing all his best work at the finish in fourth.

denphone 08-02-2013 12:57

Re: Horse Racing
 
SILVI SERVICE IN DENMAN CHASE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Leading Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup fancy Silviniaco Conti returns from a midwinter break in the Betfair Denman Chase at Newbury on Saturday.

A convincing winner of both the Charlie Hall Chase and Betfair Chase, the Paul Nicholls-trained seven-year-old is among a field of eight declared for this three-mile heat.

He will be taken on by last season's Gold Cup runner-up The Giant Bolster, trained by David Bridgwater. Philip Hobbs is stepping Menorah up to three miles for the first time following his Peterborough Chase success over an extended two and a half miles at Kempton over Christmas

denphone 09-02-2013 05:59

Re: Horse Racing
 
COY CASEY BANKS ON FLEMENSTAR

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Trainer Peter Casey is keeping race tactics close to his chest ahead of Flemenstar's crucial test in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown.

Given the eight-year-old was beaten less than a length in the Lexus - his first try over three miles - connections are keen on a second crack at the distance to confirm whether or not he is a realistic Cheltenham Gold Cup contender.

There has been much debate about whether Flemenstar should be ridden less forcefully this weekend, but Casey is not giving anything away.

denphone 09-02-2013 11:48

Re: Horse Racing
 
Here are my best tips for today.


Newbury 1.15 Chatterbox
Newbury 1.50 Monetary Fund & Spirit River e/w
Newbury 2.25 Silviniaco Conti
Newbury 3.00 Shooters Wood
Newbury 3.35 Cause Of Causes
Newbury 4.10 Unioniste
Warwick 1.30 Kells Belle
Warwick 2.05 Hey Big Spender
Warwick 2.20 Fago

denphone 09-02-2013 14:41

Re: Horse Racing
 
RAINBOW SET FOR ASCOT COMEBACK

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...s&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Finian's Rainbow is in line to make his protracted return to the track at Ascot next weekend.

Last season's Queen Mother Champion Chase winner has not been sighted since disappointing in the Amlin 1965 Chase at Ascot in November.

Nicky Henderson's inmate has since undergone a wind operation, and is set to contest the Betfair Ascot Chase after satisfying jockey Barry Geraghty in a piece of work at Seven Barrows on Saturday morning.

denphone 09-02-2013 17:02

Re: Horse Racing
 
CONTI DELIVERS GOLD STANDARD

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Silviniaco Conti further cemented his position as a leading contender for Cheltenham Gold Cup honours with a straightforward success in the Denman Chase at Newbury.

Rapidly progressive this season and arriving on the back of victory in the Charlie Hall Chase and a defeat of Long Run at Haydock last time out, the seven-year-old jumped three out in unison with The Giant Bolster and Mail De Bievre, who made a bold bid from the front on his British debut.

Silviniaco Conti (8-11 favourite) asserted going to the final fence and was quickly away from it, staying on well to see off last year's Gold Cup runner-up The Giant Bolster, to whom he was giving 4lb, by seven lengths.

denphone 09-02-2013 19:37

Re: Horse Racing
 
SIR DES SEES OFF STAR

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Sir Des Champs finally got the better of Flemenstar to claim Grade One glory in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown.

The Willie Mullins-trained seven-year-old, ridden by Davy Russell, outstayed Peter Casey's stable star, who seemingly failed to last out the three miles despite being held up for most of the journey.

Quel Esprit set the pace in a four-horse affair, but the race developed into a duel between the big two over the last two fences. Andrew Lynch hung on to Flemenstar until after the last, but he could not quicken to go past Sir Des Champs (11-8), who prevailed by a length and three-quarters.

Sir Des Champs is two from two at the Cheltenham Festival and was cut to 9-2 second-favourite with Stan James to make it a hat-trick in the Betfred Gold Cup, for which the Nicky Henderson-trained Bobs Worth is 3-1 favourite.

denphone 10-02-2013 06:43

Re: Horse Racing
 
MULLINS BACK AT FEVER PITCH

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Champagne Fever returned to winning form when making all the running in the Deloitte Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown.

Last season's Cheltenham Champion Bumper winner had run a listless race last time out at Naas, but Willie Mullins' charge bounced back to his best in this Grade One test.

The strongly-fancied Waaheb fell at the second flight when at the rear of the field and the 2-1 favourite brushed aside Bright New Dawn, his only serious challenger, and galloped on strongly to the line in the hands of Paul Townend to score by a length and three-quarters.
TENT HACKS UP IN BETFAIR HURDLE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

My Tent Or Yours ran out a very impressive winner of the valuable Betfair Hurdle at Newbury for Nicky Henderson and Tony McCoy.

Still a novice, the six-year-old was sent off the 5-1 favourite and was cruising all the way up the straight under a very tight hold.

When McCoy let out an inch of rein the JP McManus-owned gelding moved effortlessly clear, and his margin of victory over Cotton Mill, who ran a fine race on his return to action, was five lengths. Swing Bowler was another length and a quarter back in third.

denphone 10-02-2013 13:33

Re: Horse Racing
 
LAST-GASP BOB GRABS MORIARTY

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Boston Bob got up in the very last stride to win a thrilling race for the Dr PJ Moriarty Novice Chase at Leopardstown.

Willie Mullins' charge looked beaten when he dropped back to fourth after tracking the pacesetting Lyreen Legend, but rallied in amazing fashion on the run to the line.

Paul Carberry appeared to have brought Texas Jack with a perfectly timed run and though he got the better of Lord Windermere and Lyreen Legend, he simply had no answer to the late dash of Paul Townend on the 6-4 favourite.

Mullins said: "Once Paul dropped him back and gave him a breather he flew home and we're very pleased with him. It was a very brave performance from the horse and we changed tactics from Navan, where he jumped very big and carefully.
OUR CONOR OOZES SPRING CLASS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Our Conor completed a hat-trick over jumps with an impressive display to take the Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown and is now set to head the Irish challenge for the Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Bryan Cooper brought the Dessie Hughes-trained four-year-old to challenge long-time leader Diakali two out in the Grade One contest and quickly put the race to bed.

Our Conor (100-30) pulled five lengths clear to land the spoils in style, with Diakali second and British raider Ruacana a further four and a quarter lengths away in third.

denphone 10-02-2013 17:46

Re: Horse Racing
 
SUPER SHOW FROM WISHFULL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Wishfull Thinking stayed on strongly from the final fence to capture the Betfair Super Saturday Chase at Newbury, but there was scant evidence to unsettle Sprinter Sacre's connections.

The Philip Hobbs-trained gelding looked set for third place once French Opera and Edgardo Sol took over after the pacesetting Shooters Wood had run his race.

Wishfull Thinking (4-1) still had plenty to do at the last, but found extra for Richard Johnson to win by two lengths.

Hobbs said: "It was a good job it was two-miles-one and not two miles, as he kept going and going.

denphone 11-02-2013 06:11

Re: Horse Racing
 
NICHOLLS TO RELY ON CONTI FOR GOLD

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Paul Nicholls is set to rely on Silviniaco Conti as his main contender for the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup after confirming that Tidal Bay is more likely to contest the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at the Festival.

Tidal Bay, winner of the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown last time, is to remain among the entries for the chasing blue riband next month, but is not scheduled to take his chance.

"We have yet to finalise plans but we are now highly likely to run Tidal Bay in the World Hurdle," Nicholls said in his column on Betfair.

"Of course, we will leave him in the Gold Cup until the last minute, but as it stands our plan with him is the World Hurdle and then the Grand National."

denphone 11-02-2013 12:14

Re: Horse Racing
 
TWISTON-DAVIES HAPPY WITH COMMANDER

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Nigel Twiston-Davies reports Imperial Commander's build-up to next month's Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup to be continuing without a hitch.

The 2010 champion returned from an enforced absence of almost two years when beaten just half a length in the Argento Chase at his favourite course.

"He's great, it's all systems go," said the Naunton handler.

"He will probably have a racecourse gallop somewhere, just to keep him ticking over."

denphone 11-02-2013 19:20

Re: Horse Racing
 
FRANKEL SET FOR STALLION DUTIES

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Frankel turned officially five on Monday, and even more outstanding mares have been lined up to be covered by Flat racing's superstar as he embarks upon his career as a stallion later this week.

Now at owner Khalid Abdullah's Banstead Manor Stud in Newmarket after being retired from the track unbeaten in 14 starts, Frankel has already attracted some of the top names such as Alexander Goldrun, Danedream, Dar Re Mi, Midday, Stacelita and Vodka.

Further additions to his visiting book have now been announced, such as Flirtation (dam of English and Irish 1000 Guineas winner Attraction), Maycocks Bay (dam of dual Oaks winner Sariska), Stacelita's dam Soignee, and Zomaradah, the dam of Irish 2000 Guineas winner Dubawi.
CRUS REMAINS ON FESTIVAL TRAIL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Grands Crus still has the Ladbrokes World Hurdle and Ryanair Chase as his possible Cheltenham Festival targets as the grey recovers from an ulcer problem.

Third in the King George VI Chase after having a breathing operation, the eight-year-old ran poorly once again when pulled up in the Argento Chase at Cheltenham last month.

Trainer David Pipe told his website: "He was given an easy time of things after his race while we tried to get to the bottom of his lacklustre effort and he is now being treated for gastric ulcers."

He added: "He is back on the gallops and looks well in himself so I will need to speak with his owners and decide the plan of action.

denphone 12-02-2013 06:56

Re: Horse Racing
 
DE BROMHEAD SIZING UP OPTIONS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Henry de Bromhead said it was "50-50" which race Sizing Europe will run in at Cheltenham after he was officially scratched from the Betfred Gold Cup.

The County Waterford trainer had indicated he might do that after his latest success in the Tied Cottage Chase over two miles at Punchestown earlier this month. The sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase and the Ryanair Chase remain the two options for the talented 11-year-old.

Sizing Europe is already a dual winner at the Festival, lifting the Arkle Trophy in 2010 and the Champion Chase in 2011, as well as finishing second in the latter event last year.

denphone 12-02-2013 14:37

Re: Horse Racing
 
FLEMENSTAR MAY MISS CHELTENHAM

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Trainer Peter Casey says Flemenstar is "very unlikely" to run at the Cheltenham Festival in March after being found to have a lung infection.

The Stephen Curran-owned eight-year-old, who finished second to Sir Des Champs in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Saturday, was diagnosed with the problem on Monday and is instead likely to be aimed at the big Aintree meeting in April.

Casey told Press Association Sport: "He'll be out for two to three weeks. It's a bad lung infection. He's going to be all right in the long term, but I would say Cheltenham is very unlikely now."

denphone 13-02-2013 06:33

Re: Horse Racing
 
TRIBULATION GOING FOR GOLD

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Cape Tribulation is set to take his chance in the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup after he was taken out of the Ladbrokes World Hurdle.

Trainer Malcolm Jefferson and owner David Abell have decided to go for the blue riband prize in what looks a wide-open year.

Cape Tribulation, winner of last year's Pertemps Hurdle Final, earned the right to be in the field when beating 2010 Gold Cup hero Imperial Commander in the Argento Chase on Festival Trials Day last month.

denphone 13-02-2013 13:46

Re: Horse Racing
 
CECIL - I'M RARING TO GO

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...+to+go&day=Wed

Quote:

Sir Henry Cecil has declared himself "raring to go" for the new season after revealing how difficult he found it at times last summer in his determination to follow Frankel's unbeaten career and fight illness at the same time.

Frankel retired with an unblemished 14 from 14 record and starts his new career as a stallion at Banstead Manor Stud just outside Newmarket this week, with a fee of £125,000 charged for mares who want to use his services.

As part of a BBC Radio 5 Live Sport programme entitled 'Starstudded' to be broadcast on Thursday at 7.30pm, Cecil spoke of his improving health and confidence that Frankel will be a hit in his new life.

denphone 13-02-2013 18:07

Re: Horse Racing
 
SACRE SCARES OFF OPPOSITION

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Just eight possible opponents remain in contention to challenge Sprinter Sacre in the Sportingbet Queen Mother Champion Chase, with Flemenstar among those removed at the latest confirmation stage for the two-mile showpiece.

Nicky Henderson's Sprinter Sacre is set to go off the hottest favourite of the whole week at the Cheltenham Festival after looking invincible over fences.

Flemenstar, who was found to have a lung infection after his defeat at Leopardstown over the weekend, has been scratched from each of the events in which he was engaged.

denphone 13-02-2013 20:08

Re: Horse Racing
 
BOBS HEADS GOLD CUP ACCEPTORS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Bobs Worth is among 24 horses heading forward for the Betfred Gold Cup at Cheltenham on March 15.

His trainer Nicky Henderson also houses the 2011 winner Long Run, who regained his King George crown on Boxing Day, while Finian's Rainbow remains in the mix.

Another former winner, Imperial Commander, is also heading back with the aim of emulating Kauto Star by winning the most prestigious race in the game for a second time after losing the title.

denphone 14-02-2013 06:12

Re: Horse Racing
 
CROSS ON TOP IN MUSSELBURGH TEST

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Peddlers Cross had to work a little harder than expected in landing odds of 1-5 in the Howies Restaurants Edinburgh Hurdle at Musselburgh.

Donald McCain's 2011 Champion Hurdle runner-up tracked his stablemate Ubaltique into the straight before hitting the front at the third-last. However, he failed to put the race to bed immediately and Orsippus and latterly Cue To Cue both sensed their chance at the final flight.

Jason Maguire picked his stick up after the last and Peddlers Cross did quicken clear to eventually pass the line hard held in winning by a length and three-quarters from Cue To Cue.
HURRICANE HEADS CHAMPION 22

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Hurricane Fly stands his ground as one of 22 horses left in the field for the Stan James Champion Hurdle at the latest confirmation stage.

The 2011 winner is now a hot favourite to regain his title after an unbeaten season and he is one of three entries remaining for Willie Mullins, along with Thousand Stars and Zaidpour.

There were no surprises among the defections from the feature event on the opening day of next month's Cheltenham Festival, although Nicky Henderson's team has shrunk to four, headed by former winner Binocular and the smart Grandouet.

denphone 14-02-2013 10:05

Re: Horse Racing
 
RUN AND RIVERSIDE IN RYANAIR MIX.

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Wed

Quote:

Former winners Albertas Run and Riverside Theatre are among 27 remaining entries for the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival on March 14.

Along with Riverside Theatre, Seven Barrows maestro Nicky Henderson could call upon last year's Champion Chase hero Finian's Rainbow.

Leading Gold Cup contender Sir Des Champs, owned by Ryanair proprietor Michael O'Leary, still has this option, as does First Lieutenant in the same ownership.

Sizing Europe, another former winner of the Champion Chase, could run over the extra distance this season, while Rubi Light and Prince De Beauchene are other strong Irish hopes.

denphone 14-02-2013 16:13

Re: Horse Racing
 
WALEY-COHEN WARY OF BOBS THREAT

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Sam Waley-Cohen believes the main threat to Long Run regaining his Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup crown is likely to come from stablemate Bobs Worth.

The amateur jockey fears the Hennessy Gold Cup winner who, like Long Run, is housed at Nicky Henderson's stables at Seven Barrows.

"Bobs Worth's form looks incredibly impressive and improving second-season chasers have a strong record so he has to be the one to beat. But in many years you would have to say the winner of the King George would have to be favourite so it's an intriguing race this year," he told At The Races.

denphone 14-02-2013 20:11

Re: Horse Racing
 
TIDAL BAY RULED OUT OF NATIONAL.

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Leading John Smith's Grand National contender Tidal Bay has suffered a "tiny stress fracture" and will not run at Aintree on April 6.

Allotted top-weight of 11st 10lb in the Liverpool showpiece, the Paul Nicholls-trained 12-year-old has not run since winning the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas and he was forced to miss the Argento Chase at Cheltenham last month when reported to be lame.

Nicholls said in his Betfair blog: "He was slightly lame before the Argento and we couldn't get him ready in time for that race, or the Irish Hennessy. He was out cantering as usual on Monday and Tuesday, but on Wednesday we decided to step up his work. But his work rider came back up and said he didn't feel right."
Dissapointing news to say the least.

denphone 15-02-2013 06:12

Re: Horse Racing
 
RAIN NO SOFT TOUCH IN MEYDAN

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Soft Falling Rain stretched his 100% record to five with an authoritative victory in the UAE 2000 Guineas at Meydan.

The Mike de Kock-trained runner justified his short price of 8-11 in this Group Three with a smooth success when tackling a mile for the first time.

Paul Hanagan had Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum's colt just behind the Tom Dascombe-trained leader Deauville Prince in the early stages. Hanagan set sail for home at the top of the straight and asserted to win by two and a quarter lengths from Snowboarder with Zahee, also trained by De Kock, third.

denphone 15-02-2013 13:02

Re: Horse Racing
 
GRANDOUET TO MISS KINGWELL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Grandouet will not run in the Bathwick Tyres Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton on Saturday.

Quote:

Trainer Nicky Henderson said concerns over a setback earlier in the week had dispersed but he does not want to run on very testing ground after an interrupted preparation.

In a statement to Press Association Sport, Henderson said: "The filling in Grandouet's near fore has dispersed as we had hoped with exercise and is now negligible."

He went on: "However, in view of the likelihood of very testing conditions at Wincanton and the fact that his training for this race has obviously been interrupted, we have all decided to forego a prep race and train him at home without a run before the Champion Hurdle.


denphone 15-02-2013 17:16

Re: Horse Racing
 
TENT CAMP KEEP CHAMPION IN MIND

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Thu

Quote:

Connections of My Tent Or Yours have not ruled out supplementing the impressive Betfair Hurdle winner for the Stan James Champion Hurdle.

While the William Hill Supreme Novices' Hurdle that kicks off the first day of the Cheltenham Festival remains the likely target, there is a possibility My Tent Or Yours could switch to the big race on the card.
BLACK IN BUSINESS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

Trainer Peter Moody believes Black Caviar is as well as she has been "for a few years" ahead of her return to the track at Flemington on Saturday.

Australia's champion mare is unbeaten in 22 starts, but has not been seen since her dramatic victory in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.

Although her racing career had been in the balance following her exertions in England, the extraordinary sprinter has reportedly made a seamless return to full training. Her first port of call is a Group One five-furlong sprint which has this year been named in her honour - the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes.

denphone 16-02-2013 06:00

Re: Horse Racing
 
CUE TAKES AIM AT ASCOT PRIZE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Fri

Quote:

It is crunch time for Cue Card at Ascot on Saturday as the 2010 Cheltenham Champion Bumper winner warms up for a fourth successive appearance at the Festival.

Trainer Colin Tizzard expects Cue Card's performance in the Betfair Ascot Chase to tell him whether to aim for the Ryanair Chase or the sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase. The seven-year-old has to put behind him a disappointing display in the King George VI Chase at Kempton, where he failed to stay three miles.
KEY KINGWELL TEST FOR ZARKANDAR

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Zarkandar attempts to boost his strong claims for the Stan James Champion Hurdle when he lines up at Wincanton.

The second favourite for next month's Festival showpiece has this term won the Elite Hurdle on this track and the International Hurdle at Cheltenham. He has his final race before the big one when facing five rivals in the Grade Two Bathwick Tyres Kingwell Hurdle.

Trainer Paul Nicholls said: "This is his final preparation race before the Champion Hurdle. We'd prefer better ground, but he's won on similar going so we are not worried. He goes well fresh. We've trained him differently this year and it seems to suit him."

denphone 16-02-2013 12:50

Re: Horse Racing
 
Here are my best tips for today.

Haydock 1.45 Zamdy Man
Haydock 2.55 Teaforthree
Haydock 4.05 Cloudy Too
Ascot 1.30 Aaim To Prosper
Ascot 2.40 Tatenen
Ascot 3.15 The Bear Trap
Ascot 3.50 Somersby
Wincanton 1.55 Definite Ruby
Wincanton 3.35 Zarkandar

denphone 16-02-2013 14:58

Re: Horse Racing
 
Black Caviar races to 23rd win on return from injury.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/horse-racing/21483379

Quote:

Black Caviar broke the Flemington track record as she returned from eight months off to record her 23rd win.

The unbeaten Australian mare had been on the brink of retirement after tearing a quadriceps muscle while running at Royal Ascot last June.

But she was a convincing winner of a race named in her honour - the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes - leading the field by two lengths.

"I am just so proud of her and my team," trainer Peter Moody said.
This lady is not for beating.

denphone 16-02-2013 16:59

Re: Horse Racing
 
REFRESHED POWERS TO TRIAL TRIUMPH.

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Well Refreshed overcame a bad mistake at the last to power to victory in the Betfred Grand National Trial at Haydock.

Gary Moore's 9-2 favourite was ridden by the trainer's son Josh, who bided his time on the Sussex National scorer as last year's winner Giles Cross, Teaforthree and Rigadin De Beauchene set the pace.

Well Refreshed was brought into contention in the straight and went on two out before making a big hole in the final fence. He lost no momentum, however, and galloped away to beat Rigadin de Beauchene by 10 lengths. Welsh National hero Monbeg Dude stayed on late to claim third, nine lengths away.

denphone 16-02-2013 20:06

Re: Horse Racing
 
CARD ON CUE FOR ASCOT SUCCESS

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Cue Card put his King George disappointment well behind him by claiming his first Grade One win over fences in the Betfair Ascot Chase.

Colin Tizzard's stable star (15-8 favourite) looked imperious when landing the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter, but failed to see out the three miles at Kempton in testing conditions.

Joe Tizzard set out to make all, but his mount was keen and he did not meet every fence on an even keel. Captain Chris moved up menacingly and was still going well when he made a bad blunder at the second-last, and Cue Card was kept up to his work to run out a six-length winner.

denphone 17-02-2013 06:05

Re: Horse Racing
 
EASY FOR ZARKANDAR IN KINGWELL

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...e&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Zarkandar completed his public preparation for the Stan James Champion Hurdle when maintaining his 100% record this season at Wincanton.

The Paul Nicholls-trained six-year-old is 5-1 from 6s with Paddy Power and 9-2 from 5s with Stan James for the Cheltenham showpiece after justifying prohibitive odds of 1-3 in the Bathwick Tyres Kingwell Hurdle.

Monte Cavallo set the pace, with Zarkandar well placed in the hands of Daryl Jacob. A mistake three out halted Raya Star's progress as Zarkandar moved in for the kill, and he was not hard pressed to pull away and win by four and a half lengths from Khyber Kim, who made a pleasing return after 681 days off.

denphone 17-02-2013 10:09

Re: Horse Racing
 
ROCKY COMPLETES CHASE HAT-TRICK.

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sat

Quote:

Rocky Creek galloped to a workmanlike success in the Sodexo Prestige Reynoldstown Novices' Chase at Ascot.

The seven-year-old, trained by Paul Nicholls, completed a hat-trick over fences, but he had to work hard to see off Houblon Des Obeaux.

Ruby Walsh took Rocky Creek to the lead two out only for the 8-13 favourite to slow down on the approach to the last, but the jockey quickly gathered his mount to go on and win by a length and three-quarters.

denphone 18-02-2013 06:03

Re: Horse Racing
 
WHISKY ON COURSE FOR WORLD

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Sun

Quote:

Owner Dai Walters has confirmed Oscar Whisky is likely to take his chance in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival next month.

Trainer Nicky Henderson and Walters have had sleepless nights over the Cheltenham target for the dual Aintree Hurdle winner.

But after he ran a fine race to be touched off by Reve De Sivola in the Cleeve Hurdle over three miles, the World Hurdle is now preferred over another crack at the Champion Hurdle, in which he finished third in 2011.

denphone 18-02-2013 12:06

Re: Horse Racing
 
BBC Radio announces new four-year horse racing coverage deal.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/horse-racing/21472771

denphone 18-02-2013 14:44

Re: Horse Racing
 
TENT TO TAKE SUPREME TEST

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Nicky Henderson has stated My Tent Or Yours will run in the William Hill Supreme Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival next month.

There had been speculation the talented six-year-old could be supplemented for the Stan James Champion Hurdle following his effortless victory in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury, but connections have decided to run him in the Supreme on March 12.

"He's very good and he goes for the Supreme. I have been speaking to AP (Tony McCoy), Frank Berry (racing manager) and JP McManus (owner) and that is the plan, I believe," said Henderson.

denphone 18-02-2013 16:55

Re: Horse Racing
 
CLASSY STARS OUT TO SHINE IN BOYNE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Mon

Quote:

Thousand Stars bids to make his first appearance at Navan a winning one when he lines up in the Ladbrokes Boyne Hurdle.

The nine-year-old has to give weight all round due to winning the Grade One French Champion Hurdle, and was last seen finishing second behind his brilliant stablemate Hurricane Fly in the Irish Champion Hurdle.

"Hopefully he's back to his best form. He's not run in Navan before, but I'm sure it's a track he will be well able to handle. While he has got winners' penalties, I think he is getting into better form, so I hope it's a nice opportunity for him," said champion trainer Willie Mullins.

denphone 19-02-2013 08:05

Re: Horse Racing
 
STRONG SQUAD ASSEMBLED

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Nicky Henderson might publicly admit he does not expect to match last year's phenomenal haul of seven Cheltenham Festival winners, but a team of at least 35 from his Lambourn stable will be out doing their best.

These include virtually all of his returning heroes, such as Sprinter Sacre, Bobs Worth, Simonsig and Riverside Theatre as well as a former Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup winner in Long Run, which explains why Henderson is long odds-on to be top trainer when the meeting begins in three weeks' time.

denphone 19-02-2013 14:49

Re: Horse Racing
 
TEA HEADING STRAIGHT TO AINTREE

http://www.attheraces.com/article.as...=&sub=&day=Tue

Quote:

Rebecca Curtis believes a combination of a big weight, unsuitable ground and track conditions caused Teaforthree to underperform in the Betfred Grand National Trial at Haydock.

The Welsh National runner-up was expected to enhance his claims for the John Smith's Grand National at Aintree but finished a well-beaten 10th of the 11 finishers on Saturday.

However, Curtis retains faith in the winner of the four-mile National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham last March and will send him straight to Aintree without another run.


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