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RACING INFO 1st February 2012 - Will appear here after racing. If you did not receive our daily email and were expecting to please email thejudge2011@hotmail.co.uk and let us know...
RACING INFO 31st January 2012 -
Those that have followed Onthenose for a decent period will know I often like to try and win a few quid on the last day of the month - especially if we have been losing.
Whatever happens today I will certainly be happy to move on into February it's been a slog with little luck and certainly some poor decisions made with certain horses of when to play them and when to leave them.
The racing is pretty good for a Tuesday and I do have four horses I think will go well.
Two are a bit short for singles so will form part of a double but I think there is plenty in the reserves to come from Ya Hafed from the Sheena West yard who has been found a perfect race and the last time gambled Surf and Turf from Jonjo's yard should be good enough with a clear round on the same card at Folkstone. He bumped into one there and made a horlicks of his jumping at a crucial time, handicapped well enough to make amends despite a rise.
Wessex King at Taunton is worth forgiving the last time effort which came pretty soon following a win on quickish ground at Stratford. He goes well on better ground but acts fine on softer and today's goind description if correct will hold no fears. I respect Renard and the Nicholls runner but they are likely to set this up off their big weights for a finisher and whilst Wessex King can be ridden with the pace I hope they maintain a decent position in off a strong gallop and pick it up later on. Well handicapped, runs best with a break and the race is framed nicely for a good effort from a yard in top form.
Pantxoa has proved frustrating to me this year but is likely to click in style when he gets it together and today's race looks suitable. Ted Spread could be decent and is certainly in the right hands but is very short for what has been achieved so far and Aather who I also have time for finds less than a WMD inspector in a finish.
The winner should come from those three but I am prepared to give Pantxoa a chance again and I do think still he is the type to win a good race at some stage this term. With the King yard in such fine fettle it may be today he takes a good step up.
I'm advising two singles and a double on the shorter ones - will be playing them in small e/w trebles and an e/w four timer but at much smaller stakes.
Advice -
Taunton 3.10 - Pantxoa 0.5pt Win - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - frustrates me still, 3rd
Taunton 4.10 - Wessex King 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - good effort, likewise ground not as I hoped today
Folkstone 3.50 - Surf and Turf - 100/30 General - poor ride but might not have got the winner anyway
Folkstone 4.20 - Ya Hafed - 3/1 General - ground had gone against and ran accordingly in the end
0.75pt Win Double - no joy and we end January with a 2nd, 3rd, 4th and unplaced.....
The Judge
RACING INFO 29th January 2012 -
Good morning, mized bag yesterday and still not catching a break.
I like Burn and Turn in the opener at Leopardstown and will be backing e/w at anything like 4s plus nearer the off, the price is a bit tight for a win only bet as it's hard to know what might be the end product of the McCoy mount but I like Jessies mare a lot.
One bet on the card and Mubrook can outrun rag odds in the big field handicap hurdle later on the card. Fell last time but has form at this trip and in similar races to be a much shorter price, handy jockey booked and prominant tactics should suit well.
Some flattered horses in this and Mubrook is capable of running up to the mark and being involved.
Great to see Hurricane Fly back but nothing else appeals as a bet across the cards and so I rely on a big run from the O'Grady charge.
Advice -
3.35 Leop - Mubrook 0.5pt e/w - 20/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - 6th, bad conditions should have suited but couldn't get involved, Burn and Turn did it well and would have hated that ground so ugrade that effort accordingly
The Judge
RACING INFO 28th January 2012 -
Cracking days racing and I have a few bets across the cards.
Pricewise has helped if you want to trade on the Mister Carter bet and hopefully we were early enough yesterday before the rush for you all to get a bit of value in a competitive race. Fingers crossed for a big run and some luck in running with so many going to post.
At Cheltenham the novice handicap chase at 1.30 is a good chance for Lexicon Lad to return to winning ways. Exciting on chase debut and then race a fine second race behind two good sorts this is an interesting engagement with a low weight and returning to the right kind of track I hope he can make a bold bid for in form yard and jump for fun from close to the front rank. Double the odds I would be interested in and a good e/w bet.
The Skybet chase lacks Hold On Julio which would have made the market a little more open but Cape Tribulation looks ready to go well following a good effort over shorter at Cheltenham. A classy type who is treated fairly on best efforts over timber and fences seems to have conditions in favour today and his best chance to pick up a big prize this season. Respect for the market leaders but I'm hopeful with a clear round he will be involved at the finish.
Also on the card I am interested in Dan Breen running a big race with sights dropped at 3.55, he should be able to dominate here and must front run for Hadden Frost, I have him as favourite on best efforts and he has had some time to rest since heavily backed and ultimately poor on return to the track. I hope he bounces back to his best and if so certainly capable of running away with this.
Last bet to add is Harolds Cross at Leopardstown, he has been set up nicely for this with a hurdles spin, improved his jumping each chase start and I think has some room to go on again off the mark. It's a better contest than he has won but he likes the track and can improve here, worth a bet in another wide open Saturday race.
Best of luck
Advice -
Cheltenham 1.30 - Lexicon Lad 0.5pt e/w - 20/1 Boyles, BET365 and VC ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds, 22s in places ) - ran a cracker in 2nd, more to come
Leop 2.45 - Mister Carter 0.5pt e/w 33/1 - Ante Post - ran well below hopes....easy trade if you did so then well done - called the race ok and picked the wrong one, story of the month!
Doncaster 2.50 - Cape Tribulation 0.5pt Win - 12/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - awful round of jumping
Leop 3.20 - Harolds Cross 0.5pt Win - 14/1 BET365, VC and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed ) - fell
Doncaster 3.55 - Dan Breen 0.5pt Win - 7/1 BETFRED, VC and Lads ( best price g'teed ) - poor
The Judge
RACING INFO - 27th January 2012 - Ante Post
Boylesports Hurdle - Leopardstown Saturday 28th January
I love this race but it's very hard to solve each year of course.
Scottish Boogie is cleary something out of a murder mystery movie such is the plotted efforts to date that make him a short enough favourite. If he wins fair play to them but it's not for me!
Plan A has had plenty of racing and sits next in the market and is solid enough but hard to think he has improvement to come and looks beatable.
Citizenship and Staying Article come from a nice bit of form at Fairyhouse and I would favour the latter even off a high mark for the usual winner here as he looks a nice prospect and may still have plenty to come. Harrington's entry has a lovley weight and is one of the likelier winners on profile.
One I will back before tomorrow is Mister Carter who ran Plan A to a head when they were second and third over the Christmas period at Limerick. Neither that day tried too hard to win and surely eyes were here but the promise Mister Carter showed previous to this in the Triumph when cruising before falling a couple out and thought good enough to run at Punchestown in the Grade 1 when again he came down marks him as one to keep in mind off his mark.
He won his maiden well and impressed with his jumping bar the last and fair to suggest he's been unlucky after that. His mark remains 130, they have applied pieces and he has apparently schooled well and has a fair racing weight for this.
Very handy on the flat ( won here ) and had a spin at Dundalk plus the hurdle race to get ready for a tilt he looks overpriced and I would certainly expect him to finish very close to Plan A and likely improve past the Elliott inmate.
Ground no issue and a lively contender in the usual cavalry charge!!
If you can get something on with Boyles you will get the 5 places and BET365 ( 25s fair ) and P Power ( 22s ) are doing the same.
Advice -
Saturday Leopardstown - 2.45
Mister Carter 0.5pt e/w - 33/1 Boyles, Stan James and W Hill ( 5 places with Boyles and 4 places with the other firms 1/4 odds )
The Judge
RACING INFO 27th January 2012 -
Good morning.
Just one bet today and hopefully will complete the course.
Allthekingshorses goes for the Hobbs yard and is reunited with Richard Johnson for the Pertemps Handicap Hurdle Qualifier at Huntingdon at 3.10
This horse looks a proper stayer and has run some good races this term notably when winning at Exeter and then on his last start in a decent Cheltenham event. The form of his efforts has been franked a few times and I think he is potentially nicely handicapped.
This extended trip is expected to suit, the ground is not considered too soft judging by the morning reports and on the better side of soft will be fine - heavy rain would dampen my hopes though as he's yet to face it like that.
A point winner already over the 3m and stayed on nicely after being outpaced at Cheltenham a return to the form of the Exeter win when showing good qualities puts him very much in the picture here and the tongue tie is retained - I have him at around half the odds so merits an e/w play.
I'm not sure Oscargo is very quick and looks a chaser to wait for and this is a quick track which might catch them out, whilst Rose of the Moon needs to react to the blinkers and is no means bomb proof off the light weight for the Pipe yard.
I am hoping to see a good price about one in the Boyles Hurdle tomorrow and we may bet it today so look out for an ante post email this afternoon.
Best of luck
Advice -
Huntingdon 3.10 - Allthekingshorses 0.5pt e/w - 14/1 Ladbrokes and BET365 ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds, 16s in places and 12s General ) - just needs better ground, very well backed
The Judge
RACING INFO 26th January 2012 -
Thyestes Chase day and it's sure to be a war of attrition for the runners, plenty of rain last night and it will take a very hardy performance to last it out anywhere near the front end.
I been over the race many times this week and can see the handicap angle of Adams Island thanks to his english efforts and a good spin over hurdles last time but he does appear a little soft and will need things to fall right, at double figures he's worthy of a small bet but Pricewise has taken what was left although the exchanges will still allow you to get something on around 10s and probably bigger later on.
The Mullins quartet really boils down to Sharevilz and Some Target as I don't think Quadrillon or On His Own are the right types for this on current form and experience. It's no surprise that Ruby and Townend are on the other two and whilst you can never write off Ruby when he has the pick I prefer the profile of Some Target by a fair margin.
Highlighted himself as a proper stayer when winning a handicap at Punchestown in good style and ran a good race behind the top staying novices at Cheltenham on better ground that wouldn't have been ideal.
Ran poorly after that twice so fair to think the Festival was the end of his campaign frehsness wise and returned this year with a good run over hurdles and then a never nearer 4th in the Troytown at Navan. That was a big run and hinted that he might go well in the Paddy Power chase but on better ground he was caught flat footed a few times and didn't jump well for Danny Mullins.
He prefers going this way round, will stay all day in what will be a bigger test of stamina than the Troytown was and should enjoy having Paul Townend back on board for a creeping and clever ride. His weight is fair and plenty in favour to go well if the fall last time has not left any bad memories and this National type is a value selection to score. I am only betting win on the race and will spread some small money on Adams Island, Tharawaat and Smoking Aces should he get a spin off the bottom.
On the same card and in the following race I think Four Chimneys must go close if putting two good runs together in sequence, he's 11yo now and not getting any quicker but is handicapped to take this and went with gusto again last time behind Jack The Bus in what was an eyecatching effort. Track and ground in favour and On The Way Out is a non runner so I think he can prevail and worth a win wager at the odds.
Etxalar is interesting at Newcastle dropping in class against some inform stayers including Eyre Square who has to be respected. At this trip of 3m though he is vunerable to anyone with a bit of pace at the end of the race and Extalaar is running into nice form at the right time to win such an event.
I thought the run at Cheltneham behind Mostly Bob and Mon Mome in a hot race was a good one as he has never excelled there and was a touch out of his depth pace wise yet hung in till a good stage and ran a big race until tiring. Usually best fresh but I think had a longer summer break than usual and improved for the three runs this term so hopefully will have a bit more to come.
At the prices and with a clear round I think he will go close and the race will be set up for him to finish.
Sure some of you will have seen Reginaldinho is out over fences, I couldn't back him first time at them although I don't doubt he's the ability to win such a race the price is not a giveaway.
Advice -
Newcastle 2.45 - Etxalar 0.5pt Win - 11/1 General ( best price g'teed and 12s in places ) - fell
Gowran Park 3.05 - Some Target 0.5pt Win - 14/1 Boyles, BET365 and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed and 12s General ) - too far back from runaway stable mate, looks interesting for a big chase soon
Gowran Park 3.35 - Four Chimneys 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - fell
The Judge
RACING INFO 25th January 2012 -
Some real nice racing around the corner starting tomorrow at Gowran and then the weekend will pretty much be upon us for some excellent action in Ireland at Leopardstown and of course in the UK.
I have one bet today though before we get there and Sumkindasuprstar put in back to back performances with a win and a gallant third over fences and I witnessed the later first hand at Fairyhouse.
I was impressed with the chaser and he is imposingly big, jumps well and has a good cruising speed. I thought he got caught a little flat footed last time when they quickened but to his credit stayed on gamely and is crying out for a proper test over a trip.
He's related to Florida Express who is a fine chaser and relished similar conditions and whilst it was surprising to see Sumkindasuprstar win at big odds at this track in December he had always promised more and a clear run was needed with him to see it on the track.
I wanted to see him follow up that effort which he duly did at Fairyhouse and under this jockey with a similar prominant ride he has a solid chance to win again at Limerick.
Lines of form put him close to Jolily but I think there is improvement to come on the selection's side and the one to be wary of is probably a gambled Flemensford who is well handicapped but seriously been out of touch, not sure the pieces are the answer but the connections will know more than most.
Hopefully they will all be playing catch up to the big chaser who is a fair price to atleast hit the frame.
Advice -
Limerick 3.35 - Sumkindasuprstar 0.5pt e/w - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed, 4 places and 1/4 odds) - ran fine and finished 3rd, two nice horses in front
The Judge
RACING INFO 24th January 2012 -
One bet today and I may follow up later with an ante-post bet for the big races this week - either before 5.30pm or not until tomorrow.
Don't Tell Sailor is a yound prgressive chaser from the Candlish yard and showed improvement this term each run, including when failing to last home on softened ground at Carlilse in November which is a blot in the numbers but was still a fair effort for the 6yo.
The last run was another step forward and 3m on good ground looks ideal as he travels so well and stays he hopefully will have a good few of these at it early and last home well.
Rate of Knots connections have gone for the blinkers and having come off a fall last time and been hard to get his head in front he looks passable, Samurai Way looks handicapped fairly now but I'd be concerned over the trip despite the flat efforts which mark him as a very decent horse the price looks short for him to resume winning ways just yet and Plum Pudding races off a higher mark than deserved given the nature of the last time win and higher than he's won off in the past.
Toby Belch has been given a chance now by the assessor but has looked very out of sorts over fences so far and would need a big revival with the pieces applied.
It's hard to make a case for the rest and I have Dont Tell Sailor a good favourites chances so the 5/1 appeals for a bet today.
Advice -
Leicester 3.40 - Dont Tell Sailor 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! at last one runs as hoped and scores at 6/1sp
The Judge
RACING INFO 22nd January 2012 -
Good morning.
Two bets today and it continues to be hard going....
Tafika fell when I backed the Webber runner last time and ruined a pretty good race with the antics after that. If showing no ill effects then compensation awaits at 3.35 today.
Small field should help and normally a very bold and tidy jumper should be good to watch, fingers crossed for a clear round.
Andhaar on the same card carried my support in some top races last year and has taken a while to come together this term but off 120 I would be hopefull there is some room for improvement again and is worthy of support on the same card today. An e/w price in an ok race I think Brian Hughes can also help with the tactics, I think he stays this trip and needs a fast pace to come off, hopefully today is the day it comes toghether.
I will go to Fairyhouse and watch some good racing there where Dazzling Susie will be carrying small money in the hope she can put it all in at Listed level, if given an uncontested lead she will be hard to catch, that said she has been on the end of some sorry riding and looks a touch moody...!
Looking forward to Noble Prince taking on Tranquil Sea and it would be nice to see all come home safe and sound in what has been a week of losses on the Irish side of the water with Alpha Ridge and Beautiful Sound two of my favourites no longer with us...
Best of luck
Advice -
Market Rasen
2.30 Andhaar 0.5pt e/w - 10/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - hoped for better here ran poorly
3.35 Tafika 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - dreadful run and never at it
The Judge
RACING INFO 21st January 2012 -
Good morning.
Haydock made it thanks to a dry night and the Peter Marsh is the big race with some veterans looking for one last swan song.
I like the younger Take The Breeze to come right again. The ground will be hugely in his favour, he has run well to a point in all starts this term and is now on a very winnable mark. The jockey is up and coming and has a chance to bag a big chase event here, already had two pops round on him this winter and hopefully learnt enough about him for this test. If the grey can step up on those recent runs and possibly get back close to his form with Burtons Port and Massini's Maguire then he is the one they all have to beat today.
The Victor Chandler chase is all about Finians Rainbow for me and if he continues to drift I will back him later, growing up all the time and I hope he wins on route to the Queen Mother Champion Chase.
In the opener we have a highly touted Henderson horse in Triolo D'alene who makes his UK debut, has to be respected and has been with the prices on show. I am going to take him on with Temple Lord who has looked like he possesses more than he puts in at times this season but showed up again nicely over further last time in a hotter race and could be the type to go one better back down in trip with that run another progression.
Dominic Elsworth rides and I hope he travels as well as last time, should see him get home better at shorter and a good chance if the favourite doesn't run up to the hype. A very fair e/w price according to my tissue.
Alison Thorpe has had a few runners go well past couple of weeks and is hopefully insulted by the price for Romanesco at Wincanton today. Bought from the De Bromhead yard last year and pitched straight in to top level he ran behind Finnians Rainbow and was then put away.
His 1st run back this term was a strong one and since then pulled up in a better race again at Chepstow but can be easily forgiven that given the carnage of early jumping. He is certainly better than that but has now had the added bonus of a handicap drop and in lower class on better ground and with the handy jockey still retained he looks potentially ready to capitalise.
I've seen him round Fairyhouse and was impressed with him enough to think he is more than capable in the right grade, this is about perfect and the 50s is way off.
Have a great day and good luck.
Advice -
1.00 Ascot - Temple Lord 0.5pt e/w - 12/1 BET365, VC ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds, 14s in places ) - running a big race when fell
3.20 Wincanton - Romanesco 0.5pt e/w - 50/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - scratchy jumping and eventually had enough
3.30 Haydock - Take The Breeze 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - not good enough
The Judge
RACING INFO 19th January 2012 -
Trying day yesteday again but no damage done, finding it hard to make the right calls lately but reading the racing well so hopeful of a swift turnaround.
Excellent racing again today which always helps.
I hope it's you lot who have slaughtered the price about Top Benefit at Ludlow, ran well for a long way last time and must be involved today. A lot depends on the performance of the top weight but at the prices that have now long gone the Bailey horse looked an e/w bet to nothing at this shorter trip. I will not advise a bet at under 4s but if you can engineer something better nearer the off then I would have a go.
Taunton has an excellent card and some good prize money and I like a few. Chain of Command is interesting up in trip and with Timmy Murphy booked for a clever yard. A lot to like about his attitude I think the trip will be ok and he is overpriced from a fair mark. He was to run in a good race a couple of weeks ago and has other entries, if they have him right then this looks the softer option and worth a bet.
Prince of Dreams also runs on the card and meets his conqueror from last time in Drumshambo who is half the price and a couple of pounds worse. It's a much hotter event though than they contested last time and whilst the Ed De Giles horse is a big priced compared to Venetia's runner there are plenty in here who could rightly finish in front of them both. Whilst the price is too big I do think he has to improve a fair bit again to get his head in front and I will pass.
The chase that follows looks like they will go a decent pace and that will put pressure on some of the jumping here. I was very happy with Mister Stickler's first run back this term but then he wasn't so good on horrid ground the next time, interesting to hear he'd had a few days off with an injury prior to that and I suspect we can see some improvement now for the two spins. He looks the best handicapped to me and I like the idea of a try at the trip on this type of track. A bit of give in the ground but not too soft will be fine and he is a nice e/w play.
Lastly in Ireland I am drawn to the Henry de Bromhead runner in a pretty strong hurdle race on what is a good card for the notebook. They have blinkers on first time and off a fiar mark he may just strecth this field and stay well on a track he likes.
He ran pretty well in the recent Troytwon and is well worth a try back over timber - if the blinkers freshen him up from the front of this field he will take a bit of stopping and is another fair e/w play.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Taunton 2.50 - Chain of Command 0.5pt Win - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed and 8s in places ) - mistake put paid to any chance...
Thurles 3.35 - Lurgan 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 BET365, P Power and W Hill ( best price g'teed 3 places 1/4 odds ) - I think they ran with a blindfold rather than blinkers, awful
Taunton 3.50 - Mister Stickler 0.5pt e/w - 12/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds, 14s in places ) - very poor effort, hoped for better here
The Judge
RACING INFO 18th January 2012 -
Some very nice racing for a Wednesday and great to look over some competitive cards.
The big chase at Newbury is a corker and I have spent probably too long making cases for the field and I'm not sure the market is wrong in many places.
Sound Stage is a progressive type, good course form and on a fair mark for a return to fences. You can ignore the hurdles run last time as a car crash on the moterway on route meant a mammoth journey before running accordingly on the track. This is a suitable task and one that can improve in a field where many are more exposed.
Ballyfoy is not getting any younger but is fairly treated and ran well to a point last time that suggests he has a big race left in the tank, possibly vunerable to something like Sound Stage or the other likely improver at the bottom of the field in Glens Boy.
The Henrietta Knight horses has been handicapped as a winner last time despite coming second in unlucky circumstances and that is probably fair enough, I have a few question marks in the better race that put me off the price but the racing weight and the the slow burning nature of the trainer with such sorts makes him one to be wary of.
There is plenty of money for Sound Stage but I still think a little value remains above 6s for a bet and hopefully he is the one with most to come in a tight handicap.
As a foot note I know I have read the Charlie Mann yard wrong so far this year so I am wary of the returning to fitness Cast Cada, an unlikely winner perhaps on the two runs so far this term but was going better than is reflected in his odds today when blundering last time and at 50s will carry very small change! A few plays on the f/c etc in what is a fascinating race.
Great also to see the hunters out on the card, road to Cheltenham for many is starting properly now.
At Southwell it's alwasy interesting to see a Barney Curley horse and the bookies have taken no chance at all at the prices but he has one to beat in Cesium who will really appreciate the drop back in trip and has Paddy Brennan on board today. I think an e/w price is very fair thanks to the shortie and if we run up to form and so does the Curley horse then we should be pretty close.
On the same card I considered Night In Milan back over hurdles as they have aborted a chase career a little soon in my opinion, has claims in a good race at 2.50 but is priced spot on with little value against some similar unexposed sorts ( i'd want 8s plus ). Royal Kicks would be of interest if punted after a fall last time and on a very low mark.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Southwell 1.45 - Cesium 0.5pt e/w - 8/1 VC, Boyles and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - 2nd, snatchy effort but stayed on well, hard to win with
Newbury 2.35 - Sound Stage 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - fell, ran well and can win soon and called the race nicely in the end
The Judge
RACING INFO 14th January 2012 -
Kempton looks like going the way of Wetherby and being lost to the elements but if it's on then I want to have a bet in the Lanzarote on the overpriced Zanir.
You can make a case for many such is the nature of these races but the 33s on offer for the newly housed hurdler is too big. He loves the track, ground will be a big help and he is staying better with age. His form in top races, especially at the Festival puts him in the mix here and is a little forgotten amongst the sexier less exposed types who have similar ratings for lesser efforts.
I hope he goes well for his capable rider in Tom Molloy and fingers crossed the meeting is on.
At Warwick I am guessing most of you know I am a Neptune Equester fan and I think he again has perfect conditions to win and will take a good bit of beating in the feature chase. He stays forever but is not slow and I hope he continues his progression here, just enough left in the prices to keep on side.
A more chancy one is Handy Andy in the Pertemps Handicap Hurdle and a horse I really like but that has suffered a couple of set backs to leave him looking without a plan for the year. He could bounce back over timber though and has a big chance if he does, worth a bet and I hope he shows his worth.
Best of luck and enjoy your day.
Advice -
Warwick 2.30 - Handy Andy 0.5pt Win - 12/1 General ( best price g'teed, 14s in places ) - not one to give up on and better to come I hope
Kempton 2.50 - Zanir 0.5pt e/w - 33/1 Ladbrokes, VC and BET 365 ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds - 5 places with BET365 if you can get it...) - ran in snatches and didn't get home after that
Warwick 3.40 - Neptune Equester 0.75pt Win - 13/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - not true running today, poor effort
The Judge
RACING INFO 13th January 2012 -
Two bets today at Musselburgh but quality is limited for a Friday once more.
Watercolours has been pretty average sort for Jim Goldie and more often than not for Graham Lee but he has been set a simple enough task today in the 2.40 if reacting any way positively to a visor.
Usually up against a better grade of rival and with some of his form stacking up a good bit better than today's opposition it's very reasonable to think he's over priced to come good. With the low grade stuff I'm happy enough with a simple win only stake and I would not be surprised to see a bit of a gamble develop.
Kosta Brava has been well backed to come good in the handicap chase on the same card and I don't doubt the ability is there but the campaigning of the gelding since the move from Howard Johnson's yard has been simply odd. The change of jockey is a big plus and the trip is a bit of an unknown and fair play to them if they pull this off....
It's a pretty weak race for a class 3 though and Paul Webber sends a decent team of horses up overnight to race at the track so will be hopefull of getting a winner or two. Key Cutter is a pretty clear jolly to me on my tissue prices and the 7/2 looks big enough to chance that the pieces will work again and he can score off top weight. They might have been thinking of going up in class but this assignment doesn't hold much fear and above 2s I think he merits a bet.
The stable will have high hopes for their novice hurdler and the bumper horse so I hope we are the middle part of a treble for them and they enjoy the long drive back!
Have a good day.
Advice -
Musselburgh
2.40 - Watercolours 0.5pt Win - 7/1 BET365, Boyles and Lads ( best price g'teed ) - very poor, plan perhaps for a pop up win somewhere
3.10 - Key Cutter 0.5pt Win - 7/2 BET365, VC, Boyles and Lads ( best price g'teed ) - couldn't dominate and that's enough to run poorly
The Judge
RACING INFO 12th January 2012 -
A nice staying chase at Catterick to concentrate on today and it's very competitive indeed with four last time out winners lining up at 2.15 for the North Yorkshire Grand National.
Shaking Hands let us down last time but he sets the standard again today and is priced accordingly for a trip up north from the Pipe yard. He should enjoy a step back up in trip and is the one to beat but at 7/2 in a better race is hard to be enthused about.
If there is a horse who could be about to make hay off a very lenient mark it is the McCain runner Cool Mission. He has some of the best novice staying from from last term and is perched on 122 for chases now after a cobweb clearing run in October followed by a promising first effort in blinkers at Bangor where he may have finished closer but for a couple of errors when the pace quickened, he wasn't harshly ridden and seemed to me to enjoy the blinkers travelling fine in them.
Jason Maguire is back on board and is bidding for a fourth win on the gelding. The lenient assesment of the two runs this term means he races well below his ability already seen and should be set to win soon.
Will appreciate the drying ground, hopefully the trip will mean he won't get outpaced at any stage and Jason can save his whip for the business end. At the prices he is a nice e/w bet.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Catterick 2.15 - Cool Mission 0.5pt e/w - 14/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - ran a corker in 2nd, found one too well handicapped
The Judge
RACING INFO 9th January 2012 -
Good morning.
Super card at Taunton for a Monday and well worth watching the action there.
I'm hoping the ground will ride pretty quick for the time of year as Madame Jasmine is hopefully pretty well handicapped for the 3.10 and the Suzy Smith yard.
A nice comeback run on ground too soft for her in November and certainly has potential to strip fitter and appreciate this track a lot more, the trip is optimum and she looks overpriced this morning.
Key to her is the decent ground and no rain is forecast so it should ride perfect.
Furrows was of interest later after a good run despite falling late on in a hot race last time, but with the non runners and a Lawney Hill horses I'd still want 5s plus to play e/w and the market is now tight.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Taunton 3.10 - Madame Jasmine 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - ground ran too soft, ran ok on it in 6th
The Judge
RACING INFO 7th January 2012 -
Good morning.
Not the most star studded Saturday you will get but we have been spoiled in the last few weeks of course.
I'm dipping into the two smaller meetings with a bet at Wincanton and Newcastle first.
Top Benefit is making a first course appearance for the Bailey yard and must be a good chance it will be a winning one, they have been massively patient and it seems he has been working forever in his new surroundings and no doubt schooled extensively. I have been hoping for a good while he could reproduce his early days form and at 10 years old and following plenty of issues with him there is no point hanging around now if he's ready to roll.
The race at 2.20 is soft enough for him to come good and get some confidence, I hope he goes well.
At Newcastle Devotion to Duty has solid form claims in a race that will be nicely run to suit and the battle hardened Lucinda Russell gelding will make them all feel the test at the business end especially under the 7lb claim of Grant Cockburn. They have plenty of time to take this chasing type back over fences and this looks a good race to improve on last time second place, a rejuvenated Glenwood Knight would pose most problems but he is only watchable at present.
The Sandown card is a nice one but plenty of horses priced as I would have them makes it difficult to punt on. The 3.10 is a real puzzle and likely they will tear into this early on and set it up for a finisher, that would bring the likes of Any Currency and Be There in Five into a muddy picture and I wouldn't rule out a big effort again from Exmoor Ranger, very tough and I will side step it!
All the money for Ciceron in the finale seems to have been flooding on for hours, very early on the exchanges last night he was ultra positive and with Venetia's horses in rude health at the moment you can see the angle, he has some form that makes him well handicapped.
I think that the market is now a little skewed though and Higgy's Ragazzo is too big to ignore on second run this term after putting in a big effort last time behind Lifestyle. I think he will act on the ground fine with form behind Kathleen Francis on the level showing he operates on it.
Lightly raced and improving he looks just the type to step up again and Barry Geraghty rides him for the first time. Expect him to come home with a rattle and pick up some of the weaker finishers, hopefully travels nice and will be thereabouts.
That's us for the day and have a good one.
Advice -
Newcastle 1.55 - Devotion to Duty 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - poor
Wincanton 2.20 - Top Benefit 0.5pt Win - 7/1 Ladbrokes, BET365 and BETFRED ( best price g'teed ) - not today but jumped better and will be popular next time
Sandown 3.45 - Higgys Ragazzo 0.75pt e/w - 13/2 BET365, VC and W Hill ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - didn't step up at all on last run, Ciceron landed the gamble
The Judge
RACING INFO 5th January 2012 -
Two bets today at Lingfield where conditions will make this a very tough test for many.
Mallusk holds a favourites chance in the 2m chase at 2.20. Would have been a winner last time but for a bone shaker of an error early under Jason Maguire and I think he is nicely handicapped on ground that will suit well. The jockey is a nice rider and the claim is a massive bonus in the conditions so unless Alan King's horse has found something we didn't see on debut here he should be winning. I would expect him to shorten and start clear fav.
Stop The Show turned 11 years old this week and is not getting any quicker but he may not have to improve much on his usual efforts to be involved at 3.20 in what will be a war of stamina.
Wayne Hutchinson rides and should get a nice spin from the consistent horse who shows his proper form in desperate ground these days. A winner this time last year off a similar mark and I'm not sure the lightweights in this contest are good enough to take advantage of weight he has to give to them today.
Current Climate shapes like he can improve but will need too off top weight and I have some niggles about him and the race he came 2nd in last time was very poor.
Worth chancing the old boy will have too much in the tank late on and is up to the task.
Advice -
Lingfield
2.20 - Mallusk 0.5pt Win - 7/2 Ladbrokes, Stan James and Coral ( 3s General with the best price g'teed firms ) - 2nd, found one too good on the day..
3.20 - Stop The Show 0.5pt Win - 5/1 Lads, VC, BET365 and W Hill ( best price g'teed ) - 2nd, travelled like the winner and outstayed....
The Judge
RACING INFO 1st January 2012 -
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Cheltenham and Fairyhouse is a great way to kick off a new year.
Attempting to head to the track in County Meath and hopefully the weather will stay fair and it looks an ok card.
Jim Bowie is coming to hand nicely and looks the one to beat now tried at 3m over fences. Has plenty of ability and this looks a well selected race to come good. It's possible he is a good bit better than the rivals now having gained more experience and a good chance.
At Cheltenham I keep coming back to Mon Mome for the staying handicap chase, might be touching the old age status now but rarely runs a bad race and in better company. Handicapper has given him a big say in this and Aidan Coleman has been complementary about his chances which hopefully bodes well with the stable in better nick than earlier this season. I have doubts big enough over the main charges in the betting to play this fella e/w and hope for a big run up the hill from the former Gold Cup third.
In the later chase I think Crescent Island is a big price on best efforts and despite being on a high mark he can still improve if his jumping holds out. It was much better last time and he should have them all at it under a positive Sam Twiston Davies with a lovely racing weight.
Held in high regard and took a long time to get his act together before jumping errors blighted a rise through the ranks. Hopefully can step up with a clear round and be involved.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Cheltenham 1.35 - Mon Mome 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - massive run in 2nd
Fairyhouse 2.00 - Jim Bowie 0.75pt Win - 6/1 Coral, BETFRED and Totesport ( 11/2 with some BPG firms ) - finished lame
Cheltenham 2.10 - Crescent Island 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 BET365, Boyles and P Power ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - never at it today
The Judge
RACING INFO 31st December 2011 -
Getting closer with our selections yesterday but still no breakthrough....been a cracking year and we have a day left to boost the 2011 coffers before starting all over again.
A few bets for the Saturday action and then a feast of good racing on New Years Day to get stuck into.
Tafika is a stunning chaser and possibly a star in the making from the Webber yard. Has a good run at the track last term, a pipe opener already this time round and is certainly well handicapped. A lovely bred type, the stable know all about the family and big things are expected over a trip this term. A decent race with a fair level of opposition but I think Tafika has a big chance with conditions to suit and hopefully a good few pounds in hand.
In Ireland I am giving a chance to Dibella of Paul Nolan's yard to come good with a big weight advantage over rivals at 2.40 in the handicap hurdle. Looks well treated on a couple of runs now and this trip and ground should be a big plus. Jockey knows her and can pour it on with a light weight and a claim in what will be a gruelling event.
Some nice horses out elsewhere and Cue Card would be a bet for me but I have big reservations over the jockey who has yet to give him a good ride since winning at Cheltenham in a novice hurdle beating Dunraven Storm. I think he is a touch big at 100/30 or so and would have him around 2s...
The horse I mention above also runs in the finale at Newbury and must have a squeek at a big price in a race which see's Olofi likely to start as favourite following a big run in the Greatwood. I think Tom George's horse is the recent form standard bearer but niggles in prep since the Greatwood mean it's a risky bet at the likely odds...Henderson has three and Secret World has to be watched in the market after being hyped last term and looking a little soft, no surprise to see big progression this term. Will be watching this race closely as very competitive and bound to contain more winners.
Kingsmere is worth sticking with at Warwick and needs to jump to get involved of course but is a lovely horse who needs a bit of luck to get underway again. Will set him up for chasing again at some stage but talented and capable of winning here ( 1.10 ).
Happy New Year to all and thanks for all the support shown in 2011 - will send a full year results breakdown next week.
Advice -
Warwick 1.10 - Kingsmere 0.5pt Win - 9/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - 3rd and hopefully on route to a decent chase career
Warwick 2.20 - Tafika 0.5pt e/w - 9/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - fell first!
Punchestown 2.40 - Dibella 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - not sure what happened here, everyone was keen and ran poorly
The Judge
RACING INFO 30th December 2011 -
Air Force One put the icing on a rather horrible Christmas spell of racing yesterday, beating our final selection into second after we backed the Charlie Mann inmate on the 9th November and is hard to take...good to see him back though and he was entitled to win as he liked on best form.
The ground went for Define and he was ridden accordingly so another day awaits and Badger Foot was very poor. Awful run and I can only hope for better by sticking to the usual methods.
One race and two bets in the same field as I have been waiting for the handicap debut of Prince of Dreams for a while and he has been found a fair race to start with Felix de Giles back up for the spin. A decent type on the flat and has been handicapped carefully I would expect to see some pretty sharp improvement now and a more positive ride especially on the forecast decent ground.
I had hoped to see a big improvement from Balerina this term too, perhaps the run last time was too quick after her seasonal return and there is a chance the blinkers are needed to sharpen her up. Had a little break, better ground will help and rather than risk another Air Force One scenario I am splitting the stakes with this course winner.
Harry Tricker is interesting later on the card if the new head gear works, thrown in and worth pennies at big odds.
Have a good day.
Advice -
2.55 Taunton - Prince of Dreams 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - corker and finished 2nd despite the drifting odds..
2.55 Taunton - Balerina 0.5pt Win - 20/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - swerve list from now on I would guess
The Judge
RACING INFO 29th December 2011 -
Three bets today.
Leop 2.30 - Define 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - ground went and ridden accordingly
Kelso 2.45 - Badger Foot 0.5pt Win - 9/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - poor run
Donc 2.55 - Beneficial Reform 0.5pt Win - 7/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - typical second behind you know who!
The Judge
RACING INFO 28th December 2011 -
No Bet Today
RACING INFO 27th December 2011 -
Not quite up to the job yesterday and things didn't pan out as hoped.
I have three bets today in what is a tricky set of puzzles.
The Paddy Power Chase is a corker, hard to know what kind of level On His Own can run to for Mullins and Walsh but could improve and be hard to beat, won a bumper here before moving to the UK and should be at home in the conditions. Priced accordingly however and not a lot of value remains.
Tharawaat heads my list of decent priced horses with chances and his running style will suit the race and the claim from a very tidy pilot makes his mark very attractive. Would appreciate some more rain but I still hope he can be competitive and is way over priced at 33s. Ran fine in the Troytown and will find this test a little more suitable, ran well here over hurdles and if it can click for him with the jumping will go close.
Others included The Hurl ( has a verdict over the selection in the past and has talent above the mark ) and By The Hour should he get a run looks to have place claims. It's very difficult as always and fingers crossed Tharawaat can run well for the Elliott yard.
At Limerick I think Like Your Style has big claims back down in trip and facing Seabass again at better terms than the defeat last time. A nice chaser in the making and brought along slowly he looks a nice e/w bet at the odds.
Droim Toll runs again in the same race and may atone soon for a fall last time when we were on but I would have preferred to see him at Fairyhouse again rather than here whilst Linnel takes a big step back in trip after Aintree. I hope Slippers Madden has a good spin here.
Giles Cross sets the standard in the Welsh National and whilst I would like to see him win as a backer of his a few times at this track I think the 6s is very tight. He ran a corker last year and loves the ground, good chance and will run from the front.
I think Master Overseer is the interesting one though, what happened last time is hard to tell but prior to that he looked a tailor made improver for this test and is now a very big price to resume his progression. They've thrown a few aids at him today, Tom Scudamore rides and he represents some nice value at the odds to take a hand. Another that will go from the front and stays all day.
Carruthers owes us nothing so a few of you may want to back him again, I wouldn't put anyone off but Galaxy Rock is in here and danced all over him at Cheltenham, if he can operate in the deeper ground at this level he has a big chance too.
I am chancing Master Overseer to sit off the front couple and then make it a real test later on, the pace will no doubt be quick despite the mud and I think he can bounce back. A lovely racing weight and in the right hands to do just that.
5 places concessions are a big plus in these races so if you can shop around and at Limerick the exchanges will g'tee the 4th place money as a non runner always likely!!
Have a great day.
Advice -
Chepstow 2.10 - Master Overseer 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - never at it
Limerick 2.50 - Like Your Style 0.5pt e/w - 8/1 Boyles ( best price g'teed 4 places 1/4 odds - 9s Powers ) - not good enough from a pretty average ride on the day
Leopardstown 3.05 - Tharawaat 0.5pt e/w - 33/1 Boyles, Powers, BET365, Totesport and BETFRED ( best price g'teed 5 places and 1/4 odds ) - Non Runner
The Judge
RACING INFO 26th December 2011 -
What a mammoth day of racing, I like Long Run to win the King George but it's a watching race for me betting wise. Bobs Worth and Rock On Ruby also appeal as winners but prices dictate where to place the wagers as always.
On the same card Trafalgar Road appeals in a very hot chase event at 1.25 as I thought there was plenty of things to like about the win from Loch Ba last time. Jumped really well and should have more to come, decent over hurdles and fairly treated the price looks generous enough to chance he can score off the new mark.
Also Pantxoa moves up in trip for the finale and will be a nice ride for the returning jockey who may find this trip lets him move into contention and use his engine to better effect than has been the case over shorter. It should be his day but it's no penalty kick and I will be most wary of Like Minded who was given a day out last time perhaps with this return to Kempton in mind. Could back both but I've invested in Pantxoa's career to date and I think he is a smart horse who hasn't yet been seen the best of.
At Wincanton I can't let Shaking Hands run without an interest as he strikes me as a staying chaser with little prove against this field and nicely on the up. A couple furlongs more would be in his favour but I expect they will make it a test and Hadden Frost needs to be positive but a lot in favour and shorter than 7/2 at off time is very likely.
The Rowland Meyrick is a cracker of a chase and Always Right looks the part, that last race he was supported as if defeat was out of the question and he is rightly fancied and heads the market.
Neptune Equester owes us nothing and is on a nice upward curve, has a longer break since winning last time and a lovely racing weight, I'm happy to chance his form again as it's worked out fine and the price is appealing.
Last bet of a busy day is at Leopardstown, I will be on the track and hope to cheer Sorceror home at 2.55 for the Moore and Townend partnership. Lots more ability than has been shown to date and the fitting of pieces is a big positive and a good pointer that this was a target for connections. Ran well here in the past and off the weight is the one to beat.
All win bets but I will be having a small dabble with e/w doubles and bigger to try and pay for the Christmas expenses!
Have a great day.
Advice -
Kemp 1.25 - Trafalgar Road 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - not today
Weth 1.45 - Neptune Equester 0.75pt Win - 13/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - not good enough in this step up, hopefully more to come after a break
Winc 2.50 - Shaking Hands 0.5pt Win - 7/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - 3rd
Leop 2.55 - Sorceror 0.5pt Win - 13/2 P Power ( best price g'teed ) - fell
Kemp 3.40 - Pantxoa 0.5pt Win - 9/1 W Hill and BET365 ( best price g'teed ) - poor again and I may be wrong to keep showing faith here
The Judge
RACING INFO 22nd December 2011 -
Nice bit of timing with Lady Kathleen to sort out the bank before Christmas as we'd had a few days of no shows. Could be a smart mare as that was a decent event.
Sambelucky today is interesting back over fences, blinkers seem to have woken him up and would have run a good race before falling the time before last and then won a hurdle race at Catterick for the second year running.
I have him as favourite in my tissue and he should be involved, possible Ferdy has a fast one down the bottom but I'm happy to bet that my selection will give them all a bit to do. Had a lovely sighter here in September and should be able to build on his efforts again.
Nataani has been in the notebook a long time and has been very carefully nursed along by Jo Davis who holds him in high regard. Timmy Murphy is booked for his chase and handicap debut which is a decent event. However he has some nice point form and ran another eyecatching race over hurdles recently and should be no excuses fitness wise for this test.
Was a very taking bumper winner in Ireland and suffered an injury that day even though was sold soon after clean of any issues - I'm sure they have been wanting to run over fences since purchase and I'm looking forward to the Presenting gelding running. No doubt Sherwani Wolf will be the one to beat but at the prices I'm playing e/w and think it's a fair shout.
Lastly Reginaldinho is in the last chance saloon at the local track for connections and off a further reduced mark, has ability above this and should be winning. If not then I do think I will cut the cord and let him away!
Best of luck today and we will be back on the 26th - have a great Christmas day and I hope Santa is kind to you all.
Advice -
Sedgefield 1.20 - Sambelucky 0.5pt Win - 6/1 General ( best price g'teed, 13/2 in places ) - never in the running and found it hard
Hereford 2.10 - Reginaldinho 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - poor again
Hereford 2.40 - Nataani 0.5pt e/w - 20/1 BET365, VC and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - ran a cracker and looks to be one to keep on side despite getting tired today, unplaced
The Judge
RACING INFO 21st December 2011 -
Some nice racing today.
I only have one bet though as the markets look very skinny for some of the others I considered.
Lady Kathleen should prove to be very nice for the Webber yard and steps up in trip with Denis O'Regan taking the ride at Ludlow today. It's a decent race but certainly weaker now Mabel Tasman doesn't line up and I think the Hernando filly has a big chance.
Ran a cracker on return to the track last time over too short and travelled lovely, was a market drifter that day and was entitled to need the outing. With that under her belt and a sterner test today I hope she can get involved.
Others I considered were Time for Spring in the 2.35 but 3s is very short, Ballyquin Queen at Ludlow 2.15 but another priced about right and looks tight.
Hopefully get back on the board with Lady Kathleen but there are lots of good races to study over the next few days and Christmas period so we can be patient.
Advice -
3.10 Ludlow - Lady Kathleen 0.5pt e/w - 12/1 VC and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds, 10s General ) - WINNER!!! super ride from the able deputy and she looks a nice one for the year
The Judge
RACING INFO 20th December 2011 -
Legion d'Honneur is worth another try after a first flight blunder last time when not unfancied in a better race than this last time up.
Tom Scudamore is back on and the way he travelled and jumped for Tom at Cheltenham would be perfect for this, he can be hung on to a bit more here over the extended trip and has the assistance of a tongue tie. Actually got dropped a couple of pounds for the last effort which is also handy.
Would not be surprised to see money for him hence the early email but 12s above is pretty fair.
Clouseau is not really betting material having left a shrewd yard for peanuts but the race at Musselburgh which he contests today looks dodgy and he is handicapped realistically now. Jumped better than I have seen before and does have an engine that is a bit above this level, however hugely possible he is gone at the game and only worth a small bet at silly odds but not a full blown tilt!
Have a great day.
Advice -
2.00 Taunton - Legion d'Honneur 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 VC and Lads ( best price g'teed, 3 places and 1/5 odds - 14s and 12s Generally ) - we got the price but not the performance hoped for...
The Judge
RACING INFO 19th December 2011 -
Moville will run today weather allowing and the odds will not be as generous but still worth a bet to come good for the step up in trip and the tongue tie added.
On the same card I want to chance Glamorous for the Harrington team on handicap debut, decent on the level and learnt to jump hurdles with three ok efforts to date and looks to have been found an ideal race. I am a big fan of the jockey and well worth the claim.
In the UK I considered a few and small bets might be rewarded on It's a Classic and Delganny Gunner at Plumpton but racing is poor enough and I'm happy to hang on for better.
Advice -
Navan
1.20 - Glamorous 0.5pt Win - 4/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - poor run I expected a lot better
3.25 - Moville 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - not good enough
The Judge
RACING INFO 18th December 2011 -
No Bet Today
RACING INFO 17th December 2011 -
Advice -
Fairyhouse 1.15 - Young Lochinvar 0.5pt e/w - 20s General ( best price g'teed and 25s in places, 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - awful
Ascot 1.25 - Fix The Rib 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds, try to get the 20s W Hill, BET365, Stan James, 18s Corals ) - well backed but didn't run well enough
Ascot 1.55 - Giorgio Quercus 0.5pt Win - 7/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - not good enough to score
Haydock 2.10 - Moonlight Drive 0.75pt Win - 6/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - more to come this year I hope than this effort
Ascot 3.05 - Reve De Sivola 0.5pt Win - 5/1 Lads, BET365, W Hill, P Power and Boyles ( best price g'teed ) - ran ok but didn't win
The Judge
RACING INFO 16th December 2011 -
More fun at the fair yesterday with Silver Roque, he's now done that twice to me when backed him and is one to be wary of a short prices from now on - engine is there but needs to finish races and probably be given a very good ride.
Ascot starts today and the snow seems to have let them away with it. SOme lovely prospects on show and plenty at short prices.
One bet on the card and that's All For Free in the 1.20 where he can step up again on chase efforts to date and should be hard to beat. Will love the ground and has some very moody customers in opposition, stable are going well and a solid chance. Drumlang is on the improve but comes back to fences on ground I wouldn't be sure about suiting and has to improve again in my opinion.
The 3.05 is my kind of race to take a shot at and I will have small stakes on Nom Dom and Shuil Royale but there are three possibly very smart types ahead of their marks in here and you'd think one will be good enough despite the negative quotes about the Nicholls runner....a trappy affair.
At Uttoxeter I am taking a chance with Tarquinius who ran fine to a point on return from a long lay off and has lots in favour at 2.55. Will love the ground and is coming a fair trek for another day out, Noel Fehily rides and is overpriced to get back close to previous form.
Also on the card Decent Lord is one worth playing first time for the Candlish yard and Alan O'Keefe at 1.45
Will relish this test and improved out of recognition last year, capable of this mark but likely to improve again and the price is on the high side for a race with plenty of out of form opposition.
Best of luck
Advice -
Ascot 1.20 - All For Free 0.75pt Win - 7/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! does it very well in the end
Uttox 1.45 - Decent Lord 0.5pt Win - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - one to keep on side ran well
Uttox 2.55 - Tarquinius 0.5pt Win - 9/1 Hills and VC ( best price g'teed, 10s in places ) - not today
The Judge
RACING INFO 15th December 2011 -
A couple of poor efforts yesterday and we move on.
Best bet of the day is Silver Roque at Towcester, I am convinced this 5yo will come good and has run far better than the form figures imply for the Henrietta Knight team. A slow burner perhaps and like most of her favoured horses they don't rush them and can place them in bizarre ways as part of the learning curve.
However this looks a simple assignment to me and the price is way too big, 6/4 would be about right if he get's round so the 7/2 appeals and surely won't last.
Ballyegan has a tongue tie fitted for the first time in a very winnable event at 12.40 and will take a lot of beating from this mark after having had a good spin at Exeter this month. The drop in trip is in favour given his wind issues and with the tie on I think he can last this out much better. Anything like his performances in Dec and January of last year should be good enough and the ground will suit him well and more so if they get a bit more rain.
Finally in Ireland I thought Leanne ran a super race at Fairyhouse last time and the return to hurdles might be enough for the mare to get her head back in front again off a seriously tempting mark.
Barry Geragthy is booked and she looks thrown in for a victory and is overpriced to do so. Clearly not as good over hurdles as fences but conditions look ideal for a big effort.
Pocket Aces at Exeter has been supported and I'm not surprised but the 10s or so that appealed as an e/w bet has gone overnight and this morning so I'm taking a watching brief - undoubtably well treated and ran with promise on return.
Advice -
Towcester 12.40 - Ballyegan 0.5pt Win - 11/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! super front running ride towards the end and 13/2sp very welcome
Towcester 1.40 - Silver Roque 0.75pt Win - 7/2 VC, Powers and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed ) - winner everywhere before and after the last....blew it on the run in, quirky!
Gowran Park 3.05 - Leanne 0.5pt Win - 5/1 Boyles, Powers and VC ( best price g'teed ) - didn't finish her race, certainly back over fences now
The Judge
RACING INFO 14th December 2011 -
Been a farcical month - yesterday's run from Eighteen Carat did not deserve to be a winning one yet with a fence to jump he was so far ahead you could have collected.....hilarious scenes and a losing result.
Two bets today and both decent prices this morning.
Dune Shine is well handicapped on a return to a proper test and although it's hard to know what we are up against in the Nicholl's hotpot Garton King and a few lurkers if the Sherwood horse runs his race he looks the one to beat off the bottom of the weights. Good efforts at Cheltenham and Aintree can be improved upon here for the claiming jockey and now over 3m in the 2.20
Artic Ben has probably cost supporters a few bob since going chasing but he clearly needs to go left handed and a track like Bangor to get his own way might just be the answer.
Dropped in grade, handicapped very fairly if putting it together and well worth chancing at big odds in a poor race.
The Newbury card is a nice one but nothing appeals for a wager.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Bangor 12.40 - Artic Ben 0.5pt e/w - 14/1 P Power and BET365 ( best price g'teed 1/4 odds 3 places - 16s and 12s in places ) - flattered to get involved but didn't go through with it
Bangor 2.20 - Dune Shine 0.5pt e/w - 10/1 General ( best price g'teed 1/4 odds and 3 places ) - very well backed but ran poorly enough
The Judge
RACING INFO 13th December 2011 -
We got a rough race yesterday for our selection and I suspect he is better than that performance, Sam Whaley-Cohen had an interesting day at the office though and might have been best pulling teeth rather than reigns on a Monday...
Two bets today and Eighteen Carat is interesting having recovered well enough from a blood issue to put in a good effort last time against better rivals than today.
He is a bold front runner and should be up to giving his opponents a bit of daylight now with a couple of chase runs under his belt. Expect him to stay very well and from a positive ride will take a bit of catching around here for Jason Maguire.
The other is Ballyoliver who is well regarded and yet to hit the heights hoped, previously with Kim Bailey and now with the Williams yard he has been supported a few times. I think the outing first time will now have the 7yo ready and another front running ride could have them all in trouble.
I am sure he will prove well handicapped at this level so if fit enough is the one to beat today with conditions set to suit.
A small e/w double might be worth having or if you are able back to lay on the machines as I would expect positive rides on both.
Enjoy the racing.
Advice -
Catterick 1.50 - Eighteen Carat 0.5pt Win - 7/1 Boyles, BETFRED, Ladbrokes and P Power ( best price g'teed ) - a winner then not a winner, what a sickner!! trade all sorts of odds on...
Folkstone 3.10 - Ballyoliver 0.5pt Win - 4/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - it's coming! not today
The Judge
RACING INFO 12th December 2011 -
Good morning.
Not a lot on offer today but The Magic Bishop is worth a small bet at Fakenham.
Can improve on his few chase efforts to date and might have been coming here on a hatrick bid but for a momentum stopper of a mistake when picking up pace last time out.
That day he ran about in behind under a tight rein and was able to pick up ground smartly when asked, he jumped solidly in the main and should improve again.
Would be a surprise were he not to end the term rated a good bit further ahead of his hurdles mark and as a half brother to According to Pete has a fair bit of scope to do so. The track, ground and shape of the race should suit him, so I expect a decent show. Dougie Costello is up top and rides this course very well and a similar spin to last time will be fine with plenty of pace likely.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Fakenham 2.00 - The Magic Bishop 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - better than this, had a horrid run and didn't look happy
The Judge
RACING INFO 11th December 2011 -
Apologies for a lack of write up today.
Three bets, two in Ireland and one in the UK. Enjoy your Sunday.
Advice -
Punchestown 2.05 - Tranquil Sea 0.75pt Win - 7/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - pulled up, something amiss or found it much harder than expected
Hereford 2.15 - Strongbows Legend 0.5pt Win - 11/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! not really tested here
Cork 2.50 - Goidelic 0.5pt Win - 11/1 Paddy Power ( best price g'teed ) - solid run in 3rd
The Judge
RACING INFO 10th December 2011 -
Tough day yesterday, would have loved to have seen the finish to the cross country race as it was panning out nicely.
Today's racing is very difficult punting wise, Quel Esprit did not get on the boat and that's a shame. I've settled on Ghizao as the one to beat given his efforts last year and the similar first time up performace to that of last season.
He jumped poorly and was slow and ponderous and very likely to put that behind him here, a smart performer who is possibly now tackling his ideal trip on decent ground. It's no massive price in the context of an open race but I think is worth a bet.
Menorah is back over hurdles and should be hard to beat in the International, back from fences and why not in an open division if you take out the Fly he could be up to dominating this side of the water. 4s is big and whilst I respect an up and coming Grandouet this race might set up perfect for him to score.
Calgary Bay has been running in some top chases for a long time with credit, he put up a monster performance in this same event at Doncaster two years ago and is cleary the one to beat in the renewal this term. Had a run, stable been better than usual and can go close at 3.20 under Dominic Elsworth.
I thought Marley Roca was going to come good last time having had sights lowered and was running a very good race til coming to grief, he deserves a bit of luck and is certainly ready to win. Priced a good few points bigger than I would mark him up and is the final bet on a trappy day and another with Dominic Elsworth up top.
No big wagers but hopefully none of the mishaps of yesterday to blight the day.
Enjoy the racing.
Advice -
Doncaster 2.15 - Marley Roca 0.5pt Win - 11/1 BET365 and P Power ( best price g'teed ) - NR
Cheltenham 2.30 - Ghizao 0.5pt Win - 8/1 W Hill, P Power and BET365 ( best price g'teed ) - flattered but not good enough from a slow enough start
Plus we lose 0.5pt from our Quel Esprit ante post bet....
Cheltenham 3.05 - Menorah 0.5pt Win - 4/1 Ladbrokes and W Hill ( best price g'teed, 7/2 General ) - not goo enough ( would have helped if fit and well which apparently not A1 today )
Doncaster 3.20 - Calgary Bay 0.5pt Win - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - NR
The Judge
RACING INFO 9th December 2011 -
Good morning.
Cheltenham and Doncaster to concentrate on today.
Fair Along may not be a certainty to reproduce his efforts of the Hennessy but he is faced with a much easier test today in a small field and at his favourite track. No youngster his form is solid in the book and his chase mark as the Hennessy showed is attractive still.
I'm not convinced by Mon Parrain and less so now he's run in the Paddy Power he will either struggle again or blow the field away, prepared to risk the latter at the odds. Knockara Beau is a talented horse who has flattered many times to reach higher levels, stable out of touch and will likely struggle again. Mostly Bob has plenty to prove off his mark and Swincombe Rock is on a big recovery mission off a pretty stiff mark still. Shakalakaboomboom is improving but Cheltenham doesn't seem to see him perform to date and I'm prepared to take the price on the old boy to come good once again for Rhys Flint.
Balthazar King was expected to do better this term and might now find his forte over the odds and ends of the cross country course. Had a school around and was apparently good enough to go for this, is well handicapped if running up to ability and the Irish contingent set the mark. Hobbs doesn't mess about too much with this type of event and the 14s is a bit of insult, if he takes to it will be mighty hard to reel in off the weight and loves to front run.
I think he is worth a bet and hard to see him out of the frame, if a regulation race I would be confident he is overpriced by a fair way, with the oddity of the course an unkown it's a still a fair risk and worth an e/w play.
Aather is another enigma and may be best watched but his handicap mark with the 10lb claimer up merits consideration in the handicap hurdle. This is a bridle horse of serious proportions but has changed stable to smart enough team and may just be the making of him this term. A small win bet to catch him first time is probably the way to go, worth keeping an eye on for the season ahead regardless of what happens here.
Badger Foot is worth a mention but I think I will wait for softer ground and further to bet, still 11s is big and will carry change in his race for the Russell yard.
At Donacaster I like the chances of Royal Kicks in the staying chase, set up with a decent hurdles run and jockey retained he has conditions to go well. Handicapped to win and a race to suit I think he should be favourite and so the 8s is a big price with Boyles but 6s is fair. Looks the long term plan to come here and should go well.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Cheltenham 12.35 - Aather 0.5pt Win - 20/1 W Hill and Boyles ( best price g'teed, 25s and 16s in places ) - massive eyecatching run ( as always!! )
Cheltenham 1.45 - Fair Along 0.5pt Win - 7/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - not good enough
Cheltenham 2.20 - Balthazar King 0.5pt e/w - 14/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places 1/5 odds ) - fell - shame as was right in it as they took wrong course
Doncaster 2.45 - Royal Kicks 0.5pt Win - 6/1 General ( best price g'teed, 8s Boyles and 13/2 elsewhere ) - fell
The Judge
RACING INFO 8th December 2011 -
No bet today
RACING INFO 7th December 2011 -
Good morning.
Two bets today and one paticular chancy effort at Hexham where it will be horrid ground and finishing the race will be a good effort for some especially in the finale.
I like Celian but he completely lost his way for the Neil King yard last term and as a result is very well handicapped for a switch of stables to Martin Todhunter. His new yard are in rude health, he has conditions that suited him best on all previous form and could be one to catch first time for new connections.
James Reveley rides and he is a big price, I'm not sure it's an e/w opportunity though so a small win bet and hope he's straight and wants to race again.
Legion D'Honneur has claims in the handciap hurdle at Leicester at 3.00 in what is an open contest but he could step up again on his run at Cheltenham and Richard Johnson rides again which is a plus considering previous efforts.
These are theidela conditions for the Down horse and still overpriced to go well. Questions to answer for a number here and his racing weight could make the difference as he is pretty hardy.
Have a good day.
Advice -
Leicester 3.00 - Legion D'Honneur 0.5pt Win - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - awful blunder early and ran no race
Hexham 3.20 - Celian 0.5pt Win - 16/1 Ladbrokes and Boyles ( best price g'teed, also 16s with Coral ) - WINNER!!! not unfancied near the off and win's well in a slow motion finish!
The Judge
RACING INFO 6th December 2011 -
No Bet today
RACING INFO 5th December 2011 -
No Bet today
RACING INFO 4th December 2011 -
Today's racing at Fairyhouse is very good, should see some nice Festival prospects.
The staying chase is the one that interests me from a betting point of view and if the blinkers work on Smoking Aces then he is handicapped to win well, that is a big if though and the merits of Driom Toll are well worth siding with.
He goes well at the track, a second to Saddlers Storm and a smart win here last year would only need to be reproduced to win again and he is a fair price having come back to similar sort of form at Cork when still in the mix coming home but tiring out of it, not far off Smoking Aces.
I expect him to travel as well as that if not better this time and must go well baring accidents and we have the right man in the saddle. A stake saver on the McManus horse is probably worth having but no more than that.
At Kelso I think Eyre Square should be favourite for the 4m after some very solid efforts this term. He doesn't have a massive change of gear but is a creeper in such races who can get involved at the end of a race and this ground will help him, only 8yo and no reason he can't continue to improve. I expect a similar ride to last time but to find them all coming back to him and he has a lovely racing weight.
It was a top race he ran in last time and the form looks good enough to win today.
Advice -
Kelso 2.30 - Eyre Square 0.75pt Win - 6/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! cracking ride and a nice effort
Fairyhouse 2.50 - Driom Toll 0.5pt e/w - 10/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - Fell and going well, of course Smoking Aces came good when I let him go!!
The Judge
RACING INFO 3rd December 2011 -
Sadly Quinz broke a blood vessel again yesterday and is hopefully ok after the efforts. Delighted for the winner's connections and the Sheen West yard who have our filly Chilworth Lass in the stable - I have a small share so will be keeping you all up to date when she runs later this season.
Some amount of racing to get through today and I'll be at Fairyhouse this weekend on both days, really looking forward to it.
It's the Tingle Creek at Sandown but the race doesn't look much of a betting proposition, I wanted to take on Sizing Europe but it's cut up badly and he will take the beating if fresh enough after a tough run last time. Kauto Stone is taking a step into the bigger picture and will be interesting.
On the card Gibb River appeals as one that could be a blot for his hurdle event despite carrying plenty of weight, David Bass will reduce that a little and is a handy pilot. He didn't appreciate the hustle of Cheltenham at the festival but was so impressive prior to that I think his mark can be exploited over hurdles now prior to maybe going chasing at the end of the campaign. I want to chance him at the odds and it's a decent wager at the prices e/w - he could be a cut above.
At Aintree it's the Beecher Chase and I respect the chances of Rare Bob and Another Palm who come across the water however Niche Market is the one to beat at the weights, has solid course form and Harry Skelton rides him well.
He looks laid out for this and has been given a real chance by the handicapper now similar to Carruthers following an almost identical run in last years Hennessy. Given a clear round hard to see him out of the finish in what is always a great spectacle. Four places with Bet365 and Powers appeals.
At Chepstow Prince De Seuil is very interesting to follow up his win on return to the track this season over fences, absolutely better on horrid ground which he will get here and not harshly handicapped despite a rise in the weights. Looks the right race and King yard continue to prosper, worth backing and keeping on side.
Fairyhouse is where I will be and looking forward to seeing Harrington's runners in Citizenship and Saludos who have been given very fair assignments for the Moone trainer.
The first named was so impressive last time and has the crack claimer on from the yard who is very accomplished to offset the rise in the weights, will take a good one to stop a follow up. Bob Lingo in the same race is priced up incorrectly though and if given his own way up front may take advantage, travelled well last time in a decent race until blowing up and has MP Walsh back in the saddle, not a 25s shot so I will have two bets in the race.
Saludos has ideal conditions on handicap debut and will be tough to beat given a positive ride, ran well last time without really picking up against a very solid rival but this is a lot easier and should go well.
Will be good to see Sir Des Champs and some other hot prospects, a quick mention for those who remember my fondness for Good Fella at this track, will certainly carry a few coins of my money on the course but is a frustrating one, loves Fairyhouse though and will be cheered on in the 1.50....
Fingers crossed we get some good spins and on the board for the month, a good day in store so best of luck and enjoy the racing.
Advice -
Fairyhouse 1.20 - Citizenship 0.5pt Win - 7/1 Boyles and P Power (best price g'teed) - 3rd and not good enough
Fairyhouse 1.20 - Bob Lingo 0.5pt e/w - 25/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - not overly happy with the ride here, keep an eye
Aintree 2.10 - Niche Market 0.5pt e/w - 8/1 BET365 and P Power ( best odds g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds, 8s and 9s General elsewhere ) - ran a cracker, just met one too good - 2nd
Fairyhouse 2.25 - Saludos 0.5pt Win - 6/1 BET365 ( best price g'teed, 7s Powers ) - ran well enough but missed a few fences and no match for easy winner
Sandown 2.30 - Gibb River 0.5pt e/w - 10/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - placed and a solid run, nice prep for the Ladbroke perhaps
Chepstow 3.15 - Prince Du Seuil 0.5pt Win - 6/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - nothing effort, well beat
The Judge
RACING INFO 2nd December 2011 -
Some lovely horses in action today and plenty to enjoy.
Quinz is a horse that should have scope to step up on last years excellent RP Chase win and was sadly a victim of a broken blood vessel in the National.
A mistake at the first last time put pay to any chance last time at Ascot and I think this test is a far more suitable to get back on track. I'm yet to be convinced that Boston's Angel is top drawer and Royal Charm will need to have really responded to a break and the step up in trip to win. I know conenctions are bullish about the chances but I'd also suggest he wants it pretty soft to excell.
Quinz looks a very fair price to win today.
Other races of note include the long distance affair at Exeter and a few of my favourites run but none appeal as a wager plus Lexicon Lad steps up in Chase company and should go well at a short price, it's a quiet day again with mostly small fields and tight markets to work with.
Have a good day.
Advice -
Sandown 2.30 - Quinz 0.5pt Win - 5/1 W Hill ( best price g'teed, 11/2 Ladbrokes and 6s with Stan James, 5s and 9/2 General available ) - bled again and hopefully will be ok
The Judge
RACING INFO 1st December 2011 -
A very tight day on value stakes in the racing.
Night In Milan ( 2.25 MR ) is in the notebook and a few others after his chasing debut but I'm not overly keen to go in again at the odds today in what looks a much better event than last time. I'm sure they can be a bit more positive over the fences and he will improve but he went up 5lbs for that run. No Principles runs here too and I will have a few pennies on as ability wise he has a better chance than the odds but has looked really soft since a win at this track over hurdles.
Dineur looks a decent type on handicap debut at Wincanton for the 2.45 but is priced accordingly, will go close judging on the come back run but this race contains lots of lurkers, not least Tarkari who could carry a couple of these and still win if nursed back to his best. Probably a race to avoid as tricky but the King horse looks like he'll be in the money - would have wanted 6s or so to play.
We backed Jukebox Melody last time and since then he's switched stables, not sure what to make of that and will be watching the market at 3.00 MR to see how it suggests he will go. Needs to settle better to reach full potential and might be a fact finding mission for the Reveley's.
Just The Job won a terrible race last time and is favourite for the 2.10 at Wincanton under a 7lb penalty, I'd be keen just to lay him but it's a poor enough race again. However Nudge and Nurdle has been given a proper chance by the handicapper lately and with Willie Twiston-Davies taking over the reigns has a decent chance to end a losing spell.
With the likelyhood that the topweight and the returning Tarquinius will need the outing, Magot De Grugy will find this tough enough off the new mark and on better ground following the win last time then I think the consistent Twiston Davies horse is the one to beat and priced over the odds for this.
Have a good day.
Advice -
2.10 Wincanton - Nudge and Nurdle 0.5pt Win - 7/1 Boyles, BETFRED, Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed, 13/2 General ) - laboured effort
The Judge
RACING INFO 30th November 2011 -
Good morning.
Last day of the month is here already.
Alan King has one runner at Uttoxeter today in the likeable mare Balerina who will have a handy claim from Peter Hatton. The combination denied one of our bets last February when heading Screaming Brave at Kempton.
I think you can allow the run at Lingfield last time to be ignored as the ground was pretty sticky that day, she was weak enough in the market despite positive comments about her well being and then made a complete horlicks of a couple of early jumps. Choc tried to get her back in to it but hasn't left a race behind and was pulled up. It's encouraging to see her back out so soon.
Ground will ride a bit better today and at the prices I think she can be backed in a weak affair to get back on track for a stable that continue in great form - any significant rain would have me reducing stakes however.
At Catterick the chase at 1.00 is a poor event but Emotive's record on decent ground sets a standard I think is unlikely to be matched if Lucy Alexander can use her recent experience on the Barry Murtagh inmate to good use. I make him favourite by a couple of points and 7/2 and above appeals as a reasonable wager.
Glebehall Bay owes me a few bob from a fall at Taunton last season when set to collect in a better event than this afternoon at Hereford. Venetia's yard are slowly coming together and she often has one that can rack up a sequence and this one is a possible blot in chases over a trip this term. Lots of niggle and problems so the mark reflects that but plenty of ability and is one I will probably be with a few times in the right races.
Have a good day.
Advice -
Catterick 1.00 - Emotive 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - never up with pace and so faded when it quickened
Uttoxeter 2.10 - Balerina 0.5pt e/w - 14/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - poor run
Hereford 3.20 - Glebehall Bay 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed, 11/2 in places ) - WINNER!!! nice performance might follow up quickly
The Judge
RACING INFO 29th November 2011 -
No Bet today.
RACING INFO 28th November 2011 -
I enjoy Ffos Las for it's jumps cards, a nice place to have a bet usually and two runners that I have in the notebook run today.
It is worth watching the big chasing type Makethe Mostofnow debut last time as it contained buckets of promise in conditions that would not have suited and a trip that might be a touch far under rules at this stage.
A PTP winner on only run prior to that and the one he beat that day is already a rules winner and highly regarded by Alan King. This test today on softer ground and at a slightly shorter trip looks ideal and from a more positive position at the start I think he will take plenty of beating with improvement from that effort at Chepstow. Favourite in my tissue I'm not surprised money is about for him already..3s upwards is fair.
Misstree Dancer is a very game mare for Nick Mitchell and consistent in all her runs, loves a bit of a battle and has held her own in decent company since winning ( possibly a little lucky ) a race in the fog at Newbury last Christmas time.
A pound higher in the handicap now which looks generous to me as she has certainly improved so the handicapper's literal reading of the last two runs, back end of last term and the first of this season in a hot race at Wetherby could be about to reap dividends.
Rouble is the one to beat at the bottom and like a few of my chase picks recently when I have highlighted the danger, might be the one to beat us ( Tipsy Indian and Justthejob recently! ) so a small forecast might be worth while. I like the selection though and think she will improve as usual for a comeback effort and sets the standard today.
Have a good day.
Advice -
Ffos Las - 1.45 - Makethe Mostofnow 0.5pt Win - 9/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! does this very well, chaser in the making
Ffos Lass - 2.20 - Misstree Dancer 0.5pt Win - 5/1 Lads, W Hill, Boyles and VC ( best price g'teed ) - poor jumping and never at it
The Judge
RACING INFO 27th November 2011 -
Some performance from our Ante Post pick Carruthers yesterday and a real result for racing in general given the connections, delighted for all concerned and nice to nail one at a price.....
It's Troytown day at Navan and having experienced the cold there last year I'll not be at the track despite it being a milder winter this year ( so far..... )
Tharawaat has plenty of weight but his demolition of a fair rival on his handicap return this year was very taking and a spin behind Tranquil Sea last time will have him in super order now. Always had a touch of class and is better than his current mark given a proper testing terrain and has no problem carrying weights.
Interesting that the blinkers were applied with the tongue tie for the spin around in the Clonmel Oil chase but are gone again here just as they were discarded for the win on return at Galway.
Possibly rated a little shy of his ability over hurdles when unlucky in a Grade 1 at Punchestown as a novice and has slowly been brought along over fences after mistakes blighted his first two starts. Still managed slightly better form than most on show here and is only 6yo. Davy Russell rides and I think his class might have a lot of these in trouble - Willie Mullins obviously has some nice ones to aim at the race and sends three but Elliott is not a man to fear the bigger yards and has a horse with potential to hit a height this year in top staying chases.
The yard have Beautiful Sound for the Welsh National but I have had a little on at the current prices for Tharawaat to also be in the firing line at Chepstow. Should he be good enough here then would be an obvious contender taking the Notre Pere route. 5 places very appealing here given his running style too.....
At Leicester Zafranagar is likely to be very popular and looks readied to take advantage of his current mark in the last race but the price is tight enough.
Shela House is an interesting one at Wexford, we backed him at Naas on the flat in a good handicap and he ran well again since on the level. He hasn't jumped a hurdle for some time but is probably very well handicapped considering recent efforts and Tom Doyle is hopefully looking forward to getting back on top having ridden him the four times during the handicapping process.
They missed a possible engagement on the flat since so I assume a hurdle would be up next.
It's fair to say he will need to step up markedly on the efforts over timber last time but he is the type to do so and worth chancing as he's in good health.
Advice -
Wexford 2.00 - Shela House 0.5pt Win - 7s Boyles & BET365 ( best price g'teed ) - poor run
Navan 2.20 - Tharawaat 0.5pt e/w - 16s BET365, Boyles, P Power and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed, 5 places and 1/4 odds ) - not good enough it seems, and a poor enough show despite the weight
The Judge
RACING INFO 26th November 2011 -
Another tough day at the office yesterday and we are loaning a bit back to the layers...our time will come soon I hope and perhaps Carruthers can carry it off today with a big run in the Hennessy.
I am happy with the bet, not too concerned about the ground as he goes well on a decent surface, if it had been a deluge he would have gone better on it than most but he has enough toe, class and ability to win off this mark. Fingers crossed.
Aiteen Thirtythree is the only other one I would back and he is worth a saver today at the prices - biggest he's been all week in a scaredy cat book most layers put up. Newbury form in the book and will race prominent but the biggest plus was the comeback run which will have him spot on, a long term plan to win here and Ruby is the right man of course.
On the same care I think Ravastree has claims in the novice chase, ran like a bull last time and flattened out too soon over hurdles, will appreciate a fence and should make a bold bid for Denis O'Regan. Interesting off a very handy weight and a big price for an e/w play.
Coup Royale looks the one to beat in the finale and Aidan Coleman rides which is a good sign. Potentially very smart and I think handicapped to win this in good fashion, the stable target the race expect fitness not to be an issue. Priced just about fair but certainly enough for a bet I wouldn't want much less than 4s.
At Newcastle I think Humbie is the improving type with perfect racing weight to shake up the principles in the Rehearsal Chase. He owes us nothing and possibly should have won again since we backed him when a little slow at the last in a good event.
Timmy Murphy is a top jockey but he creeps horses into races with such skill that the final leap or two have to be a very good and the horse wandered and lost crucial ground, it was confident ride and the horse is on the upgrade clearly.
Off 10st has a good chance this afternoon.
Meet The Critics runs and I wouldn't put anyone off a bet as I think he has ability but he has dropped out twice now in two runs when going fine and I'm not sure what to make of him, runs in the opener on the Newbury card.
Advice -
Newbury -
1.30 - Ravastree 0.5pt e/w - 20/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - corker of a run, just out of the money
3.10 - Aiteen Thirtythree 0.5pt Win - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - ran well but is no superstar yet
3.10 - Carruthers 0.5pt e/w - 25s, 4 places and 1/4 odds - Ante post... - WINNER!!! get in what a race and a big result for us since we got involved on Tuesday....delighted for connections
3.45 - Coup Royale 0.5pt Win - 5/1 Ladbrokes and W Hill ( best price g'teed, 9/2 General ) - another whomade mistakes, still well treated
Newcastle -
3.30 - Humbie 0.75pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - few errors and not at it today
The Judge
RACING INFO 25th November 2011 -
Another good day's action ahead.
Silver Roque is a horse I think can rise the ranks as a chaser and has been brought along in the usual kid gloves style by Henrietta Knight. Patience should pay off today with a more positive ride from Dominic Elsworth and the 5yo is one to keep on side this term.
Like Minded has had a wind operation since last term and is reported to need the run today but I think he will prove head and shoulders above the opposition here if not today then certainly in time if free of injury.
A super traveller and his runs with Manyriverstocross and Act Of Kalanisi are the best in this contest and the trip of 3m plus is only going to bring further improvement. Worth backing and if you are concerned about the fitness I'm sure he will trade lower in running for a get out.
Marley Roca has me playing catch up this year and the Webber stable in general have caused me problems but the frop in grade and a promising effort at least last time at Cheltenham mean the 7yo is worth another roll of the dice. Decent booking with Elsworth engaged at Newbury and if it comes together can regain the winning thread.
Beneficial Reform should improve again for a step up in trip and is now priced correctly to win at Doncaster if anyone wishes to keep following him, the price is below the minimum for me though.
Gogeo is one to look out for at Doncaster too but again a little light pricewise for a bet, could be a very decent performer in the making.
Ebanour goes at Musselburgh and looks a longer term project for the McCain yard than I had anticipated, may well win today but I'm wary of getting too involved after the novicey effort last time, they have a bit of work to do still.
Lastly it's awful what has happened to the Oliver Sherwood family home and thoughts with them trying to keep it all together, good news that all were well and safe of course.
I think they might get a boost from Bee Cee Pee M at Doncaster today who was sent out too quickly last time after a good return to the track behind Sentimentaljourney and can make amends here in a poor enough contest. The ground is a big help and the blinkers come back, he can improve this term and should be good enough today!
A busy day.
Advice -
Doncaster 2.00 - Bee Cee Pee M 0.5pt Win - 11/4 General ( best price g'teed ) - not today, very poor
Newbury 2.10 - Silver Roque 0.5pt Win - 9/2 General ( best price g'teed, 5s with VC and Boyles ) - poor jumping has slowed his progress, remains of interest
Doncaster 2.35 - Marley Roca 0.5pt Win - 8/1 Ladbrokes, W Hill and Boyles ( best price g'teed ) - fell when gunning to get involved
Newbury 2.45 - Like Minded 0.5pt Win - 11/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - not his target clearly
The Judge
RACING INFO 24th November 2011 -
Good morning.
Some nice stuff on today and I hope for a bit better luck.
I adore Kingsmere from the Henry Daly stable, and we backed him on his chase debut purely on looks and potential having run a corker behind a nice type in Pie at Midnight over 3m and hurdles. He is a super traveller and was just worried out of it that day, I see Hugh Taylor likes him and that is a good sign when we agree on hurdle types it seems. The price has been cramped now but he could be a fair bit better than rivals today against a more exposed field. If fit and ready will go close but the trainer doesn't really get much luck at this track and it's a win only bet now at the odds.
Born Again is the interesting one in the handicap chase for Jonjo and AP as watching his career to date he has yet to be asked for full effort and still run some very tidy races. Clearly is not keen on the whip but travels lovely and this step back in trip and the return of AP always worth noting.
Ran with the leaders last time until fading and being given an easy coast home and previous to that was an eyecatcher in a good race where a couple of blunders put him out of contention but still he made headway under little encouragement. Probably a good bit to come and if AP decides today is the day to use the whip we might see a big improvement.
The last bet is also a Jonjo inmate and this time at Uttoxeter where Richie McLernon is riding O'Callaghan Strand and back at the right trip. Looks to have more to give and this is a suitable track for the Gallileo gelding, might find one lurker too good but looks sure to be involved again here. A fair e/w play.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Newbury 1.35 - Kingsmere 0.5pt Win - 9/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - fell first
Newbury 2.45 - Born Again 0.5pt e/w - 12/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - just out of the money too but well off the eventual leaders
Uttox 2.35 - O'Callaghan Strand 0.5pt e/w - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - just out of the money
The Judge
RACING INFO 23rd November 2011 -
Hit the crossbar with Royal Mile yesterday and then the corner flag with O'Malleys Oscar, now confined to scrap heap until we see something a little better!
A bit of rain in Newbury is good news for our ante post selection so hopefully a few drops more fall and give us a run for our money.
Racing today is trappy and a few shorter priced ones are nearly selections but left alone.
Nataani was a bright prospect in winning an Irish bumper and should have learnt enough to put away his rivals in the Fontwell opener, however it's hard to know how much the injury sustained that day ( despite being sold sound afterwards!! ) has left a mark and I'd want an e/w get out to bet - the 7/2 and 3/1 doesn't quite offer that.
Best Lover is reported to be a stable star at the Ewarts and looks to have Prosecco to beat at Wetherby ( 2pm ), the price is too short though on return to the track from a lay off and with a welter weight, might be a race for the forecast. Best Lover is one I will be interested in this season though.
At Cork it's a good sign that Osirixamix is dropped in class and still jocked up with Robbie Power who travels down for one ride only. He had a spin around behind Noble Prince last time and jumped well which is what was needed following it all going to pieces with the fences last term.
He is potentially a good bit better than this field and loves the heavy ground and can carry a weight at we saw on chase debut against a nice set of horses.
I can't resist a wager at the odds, a clear round and he has to be involved. Market is often a guide with Martin stable but this horse has won at nothing less than 8s!
Have a great day.
Advice -
Cork 4.00 - Osirixamix 0.5pt e/w - 10/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds ) - what's the plan for this chap then??? pulled up very early
The Judge
RACING INFO 22nd November 2011 -
Yesterday's runner was a big pre race drifter and was given a ride that has raised some eyebrows, the Racing Post review is not far off my own but Paul Moloney has done me plenty of favours in his time and it's easy to suggest he didn't put it all in when you are not the one in the saddle. The horse obviously remains of interest for a similar race.
Royal Mile looks like a chaser about to come to the boil for the marmite man Ferdy Murphy, trying to work out his runners is an art form and one that I will never master, however this has a race set up for him today if the usual improvement expected is forthcoming.
He probably only has to settle a little better than last time and run up to that form to be hard to beat and has a hard to win with Tipsy Indian to overcome on my reckoning. Therefore the 7/2 appeals enough to get involved.
O'Malleys Oscar is now on a last chance saloon for me, has been backed like a superstar a few times and especially last time on chase debut, that clearly did not go to plan. However the yard had a good winner at the weekend and the same jockey is now taking over so this horse with a serious engine might be about to hit his straps! Priced accordingly to suit his profile a small win bet to keep on side.
The Hennessy is nearly upon us and it's a good renewal without perhaps a standout Gold Cup candidate, lots of very talented staying novice chasers and I'm sure lots of big race winners but I am not too enthused at the current market.
Carruthers is the interesting one and his comeback race was seriously eyecatching giving a lump of weight to Galaxy Rock and leading a fair field a meery dance around Cheltenham. He has previous in the Hennessy which is not a negative as some believe but the ground is being considered before they confirm they will line up. I see however that he is not declared for an alternative at Newcastle so perhaps they have decided to take a chance.
I would certainly go to Newbury regardless of the ground as he is nicely handicapped on best efforts and has top form that entitles him to be involved this year. Apparently they didn't get him healthy last year and if the return to the track is anything to go by they have sorted that out, he is overpriced at 25s and is one the field will have to aim at. Should we get a bit of rain to make it testing that might help him to set a slower pace which he can quicken off but on good or good to soft ground he still operates and will not have a Denman staring him down as he did last time and in the Gold Cup when a very solid 4th to Imperial Commander.
He may not run but at 25s I am prepared to dip the toe.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Sedgefield 2.30 - Royal Mile 0.5pt Win - 7/2 Boyles and P Power ( best price g'teed, also with Stan James ) - just outbattled, 2nd, a little soft this fella
Lingfield 3.20 - O'Malleys Oscar 0.5pt Win - 9/1 BETFRED and W Hill ( best price g'teed, 10s Lads and 8s General ) - pulled up! on the long finger now
Antepost -
Hennessy - Newbury Saturday
Carruthers 0.5pt e/w - 25/1 BETFRED, W Hill and Totesport (4 places and 1/4 odds)
The Judge
RACING INFO 21st November 2011 -
Another informative day ahead with some decent types stepping on the track.
I only have one bet and the task is made easier by the defection of Shernaz but the price is also shorter of course. Stormyisland Ahead is the one to beat at Ludlow in the 2.50 with this race easier than last time out and hopefully he is none the worse for a big tumble when chasing in Inishrush that day.
Not the biggest so jumping always a concern but Paul Moloney is back up and is an expert at organising such types, I think he will win with a clear round from Just The Job who is fair enough for this grade. Try and get the 3/1 available as that looks very fair this morning.
War Of the World is a possible gamble at Ffos Las at 3.00, chucked in over hurdles and ran ok in the Persian War Novices last time, I'd be surprised though if he wins without being properly backed and so watching the market is key today, Johnson rides and could outclass them on his return to anywhere near his best....
Have a good day.
Advice -
Ludlow 2.50 - Stormyisland Ahead 0.5pt Win - 11/4 General ( best price g'teed, 3s in places ) - interesting ride! comes up second best at a big SP
The Judge
RACING INFO 20th November 2011 -
Punchestown is the focus today with some nice horses on show.
Days Hotel impressed me a lot on chase debut for the De Bromhead yard and can take the scalp of hatrick seeking Lucky William today in the Grade 2 Novice Chase. He's related to the once smart Travino and looks to have plenty of toe whilst enjoying the fences, he slammed a well fancied Martin horse last time and has lots to come. I was at Punchestown for the Lucky William race and I think he will have to improve to win here whilst Whodoyouthink is not one to rely on running two races alike and has a bit to find still.
I think Days Hotel can make a bold bid from the front and make all.
Dazzling Susie is the possible blot on the handicap at 3.10 against a lot of lurking types I be surprised if they hang about under her claiming jockey who knows her very well. Went too quick and was fresh enough last time when fav for a hot race and can quickly make amends here with a big run.
It's competitive so I hope they don't try and mix it midfield with some of them and just stick to a front running ride where she can do her best, a fair price to be in the shake up if so as sure to improve again.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Punchestown 1.10 - Days Hotel 0.5pt Win - 4/1 Ladbrokes and P Power ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! very taking again over the fences, on the upgrade
Punchestown 3.10 - Dazzling Susie 0.5pt e/w - 9/1 P Power ( best price g'teed, 3 places and 1/4 odds - also 9s with Stan James, 10s Ladbrokes and 8s BET365 ) - rider read the wrong script for the race and gave littel chance in such a big field, remains of interest
The Judge
RACING INFO 19th November 2011 -
Long Run returns today and should have improved for another summer on his back, good luck to all concerned it would be great to see him serve it up first time and ignite the season, potentially one of the best we have seen.
That said first time might be the time to take him on but I've considered it all week and haven't dipped my toe in the race yet. Diamond Harry has a record fresh that gives a lot of hope, Weird Al has had a run and a winning one at that whilst Kauto Star at a decent price looks wrong when you consider his achievements....it's a pass here but I think Harry will give Long Run most to do.
The race that intrigues the most is the Brush Hurdle race and Robinson Collonges is the one to beat if stepping up on his return, also over hurdles when a solid third in a good race last time. Stacks of ability and surely well treated if enjoying this test and is a perfect type so the price looks fair.
I also think Sunnyhillboy is priced incorrectly and with the promising Maurice Linehan booked is chucked in at the weights thanks to the claim. The question is fitness and McCoy apparently chooses the mud lark Synchronised so plenty to mull over. He has gone well fresh and is possibly targeted at a decent hurdle prize with an eye to keeping the chase mark right for a later event, I just hope they have him ready today as his class makes him a big contender.
Indian Daudaie was touted highly last year but didn't win, however the efforts in defeat were solid and he is said to have improved significantly. He will have to and you can be sure he is primed for the race today given the connections. Get Me Out Of Here gives lumps of weight away and was only set up for one day last season whilst Arthurian Legend will find this tougher than last time. There are plenty of question marks over the rest and I think Nicholls can continue his recent Saturday monopoly here.
Neptune Equester is one to keep on side when conditions are right and a lot to like about his profile, I have him as a short enough favourite for the 1.55 and so the 5s on the board appeals. Should have plenty to come at extended trips, hopefully a clear round and gets involved.
I thought Emmaslegend was going to keep improving last term when winning a couple of times following a wind op and can hopefully step up again this term and emulate her sister Aimigayle who is a very solid type for Suzy Smith.
Back against her own sex and a realistic target I think she will improve for the run at Cheltenham when staying on without getting involved, good chance.
Lots of good racing again, four races to concentrate on and hopefully we get some luck, have a great day.
Advice -
Haydock 12.50 - Indian Daudaie 0.5pt Win - 9/2 General ( best price g'teed, 5s in places ) - well backed but tame effort, questions to answer now
Ascot 1.30 - Emmaslegend 0.5pt Win - 10/1 General ( best price g'teed, 12s in places ) - WINNER!!! cosy success in right grade, improver
Haydock 1.55 - Neptune Equester 0.75pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! smart effort under that weight and will climb the ranks again
Haydock 2.30 - Sunnyhillboy 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - ran well but couldn't figure
Haydock 2.30 - Robinson Collonges 0.75pt Win - 6/1 Boyles and BET365 ( best price g'teed, 6s elsewhere and 11/2 General ) - not good enough and surely back to fences now
The Judge
RACING INFO 18th November 2011 -
Ascot and Haydock serve up some nice racing today and I've concentrated on the Ascot card for the betting purposes.
Rougham is only 5yo but is very experienced for his age and takes on some horses that may be reaching the ceiling of their ability handicap mark wise and I think has a big chance to dominate the 2.45 event over 2m 3f today.
Rhys Flint rides and will have fond memories of the course and distance win here last term when given a pearler of a ride to defeat Osric and the way the horse battled when given a few challenges up front was impressive as was his jumping. I think he would have given Roudoudou Ville something to worry about last time but for an error at the last and this is off the same mark, has a big chance to get involved.
Cois Farraig is a bit of a monkey, has a serious engine and could reach a decent level over fences with a bit of luck this term. The stable hold him in serious regard and he is already a winner at graded level over fences at Newbury last term. Slipped up on return to the track this year but then went for a spin around Towcester for schooling and so this should be the time to get involved. Should prove well handicapped with a clear round of jumping.
Lastly Pantxoa must be involved if stepping up on a quietly ridden effort behind Pateese last time. This is one I am sure is nicely treated for such races having been educationally ridden to settle and travel since his first win over hurdles. Could be the type to win a few races and I have to keep on side, the stable are really clicking into gear too.
Advice -
Ascot -
2.45 - Rougham 0.5pt Win - 11/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - all going to plan til he hit one very hard, pulled up
3.20 - Cois Farraig 0.5pt Win - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed, 15/2 in places ) - continues to frustrate, needs an easier opportunity
3.55 - Pantxoa 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - improving but slower than hoped, lightweight in a good handicap over further will probably see success
0.25pt e/w Treble - bad bet
The Judge
RACING INFO 17th November 2011 -
A good day yesterday, Lexicon Lad was very impressive for a chase debutant.
Tarateeno is one I have to chance off his mark today at Wincanton, I thought he was going places until injured last February and was entitled to a quiet run on his return. Will need to jump better but should outclass this field which is a good bit below what he can achieve if all is well.
We backed Reginaldinho last time and there was promise in the run for a quiet yard and this event at Hereford looks suitable for the Galileo gelding. Sam Thomas rides and a repeat of his last effort at this track should be good enough on route to better things.
Some horses I may include in multiples rather than individual punts are Moonlight Drive who can reach the top over fences and goes in the Market Rasen novice event for a shrewd yard and AP McCoy, Awesome Bella who is reported to be a bumper winner in waiting at Hereford and Invictus for the same yard at the same track, should be once to keep on side.
Barrie Burn was a big gamble at Aintree last time in a much better event than the 2.50 at MR and the 7/2 might look big if he completes the race today, has to be enough doubt to make the price a bit skinny though.
Have a good day.
Advice -
Wincanton 2.40 - Tarateeno 0.5pt Win - 9/2 VC, P Power, Ladbrokes and BETFRED ( best price g'teed ) - needs to step up now, poor run
Hereford 3.00 - Reginaldinho 0.5pt Win - 4/1 General ( best price g'teed, 9/2 in places ) - not good enough
The Judge
RACING INFO 16th November 2011 -
Two bets today - one at Fairyhouse and one at Warwick but despite plenty of action it's slim pickings until we see some better horses.
Leroy Parker has ability and is improving nicely, he was given a fairly educational spin last time for his first try at hurdles and expect a proper performance this time in the opener at the county Meath track. Should be favourite despite the Walsh runner and I expect will be too good for the rivals today.
At Warwick I am looking forward to seeing Lexicon Lad jump for Paddy Brennan and Tom George, the stable are flying and this animal could be a decent chaser. Tongue Tie is on first time over the larger obstacles and there are plenty of holes in the opposition, might be one to catch first time up and is a big price.
Both are worth the usual win only stake at the odds today.
Advice -
Fairyhouse 12.55 - Leroy Parker 0.5pt Win - 3/1 BET365, W Hill ( best price g'teed also with Stan James and 100/30 Corals ) - WINNER!!! improving and wins in a good fashion
Warwick 1.30 - Lexicon Lad 0.5pt Win - 9/1 General ( best price g'teed, 10s in places ) - WINNER!!! very nice effort and comfortably does the job, well supported
The Judge
RACING INFO 14th and 15th November 2011 - No Bet
RACING INFO 13th November 2011 -
Good morning.
A very testing couple of days was made a little easier by Dorset Square under a very good ride from the young Mullins.
We are already on Moon Dice and I do like his chances today, hopefully he can stay handy and throw it down to them up the hill.
A Media Luz is worth a smaller wager as although she has faultered at Cheltenham twice, both times the excuses were obvious and perhaps is worth one more chance there, handicapped fairly especially when you consider the flat efforts and that she hammered the same horse Pateese put away in a much easier fashion and possibly in a more competitive race...
Rangitoto looks to have a very big shout in the following race, form of his last win is as solid as it could be and the mark is generous. Tenor Nivernais must have plenty to come and will be chanced in running if going ok as Venetia's first time are hard to catch right, finished like a train in the Fred Winter and might just need an outing.
Over at Fontwell I think Aldertune is a big price to go well in the Summer National, looks quirky but nothing wrong with the last run as he met a good one and could appreciate this test ( no blinkers this time ). Daryl Jacob rides and one that has potential if putting it all together in a race like this.
Called a few names but is ultra consistent at being involved in the finish and is the final bet of the day.
Some good stuff to watch all over and hopefully we have a bit of luck.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Cheltenham -
2.20 - A Media Luz 0.5pt Win - 9s General ( best price g'teed ) - non runner
2.20 - Moon Dice ( already advised 0.75pt e/w 8s ) - have to say unlucky not to get closer in a troubled passage, placed and e/w return
2.55 - Rangitoto 0.75pt Win - 4s General - WINNER!!!, gambled and given a proper ride by Ruby, settled at 7/2 due to late transmission of the email...
Fontwell 3.15 - Aldertune 0.5pt e/w - 10/1 BET365, Stan James and Coral ( 4 places 1/4 odds, 11s in places and 9s...) - ran well to be placed
The Judge
RACING INFO 12th November 2011 -
Paddy Power day and a cracking renewal where many look competitive.
Wishfull Thinking and Mon Parrain are short enough, it's a mammoth task for the Hobbs horse to win of the mark but the way he jumps is a sight to behold and he is sure to go well although I think the weight will prove slightly beyond him.
Mon Parrain is another who treats fences with respect and loves jumping, only seen twice last year and won an ok handicap at Sandown and then looked to be a winner at Aintree before finding little on the run in and that form is hard to read, turn the replay off a couple out and you have a superstar, watch to the end and scratch your head.....at the prices I find it hard to be that enthused.
Araldur ran a solid return over fences last time, snatches of pace and good jumping but plenty to work on and his form as a younger horse was interesting for something like this.
He is huge so is very entitled to improve for an outing, like a lot at Kings yard and is attractively weighted to come good. If he can hang on to the coat tails of the pace I can see a postive move round the bend and I think he has the guts to go close.
Calgary Bay looks well in with a couple and might surprise a few whilst Fine Parchment is another who could be in the shake up being brought back into the weights almost with a good claimer up. Place chances both and it's an ultra competitive race, fingers crossed Choc can get a good rhythm.
In the decent handicap chase over 3m3f I do think Balthazar King has solid claims for the Hobbs team, didn't get it together at Ascot but goes very well here and Johnson back up, the form with Chicago Grey is a close match and it should be a good test.
Dorset Square holds a solid claim over the hurdler event at 3.10, looks well treated on best hurdles efforts and as he's not the biggest the weight and claim will be ideal, ground and trip look suitable for a big effort.
At Wetherby I've got to give eyecatching and unexposed Meet The Critics a big say in the handicap chase, ground is right which is what has been waited for and patience can pay off for the Powell yard. No penalty kick but expected improvement should see him involved and the price is fair.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Cheltenham -
1.55 - Balthazar King 0.5pt e/w - 11/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - hit every fence in a horrid run
2.35 - Araldur 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 Boyles, P Power and Bet365 ( best price g'teed 5 places and 1/4 odds ) - outpaced early and struggled
3.10 - Dorset Square 0.5pt e/w - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - WINNER!!! cracking ride by the young man
Wetherby 2.55 - Meet The Critics 0.75pt Win - 13/2 General ( best price g'teed, 7s in places ) - sour effort, hope all is well
The Judge
RACING INFO 11th November 2011 -
A few bets today and plenty of value in the Cheltenham markets this morning.
Last year we found an unfancied Rustarix to pick up the opener of the meeting and Masked Man looks overpriced to repeat the feat this year for Charlie Mann.
A nice progressive and unexposed chaser but off the back off a lay off and moving from Alan King of course this could be a gentle return and that is fairly factored into the odds. The jockey knows what it takes round here and on form I fancy they might have this as a very winnable first target. Previous efforts suggest fresh is the time to get involved and I'd be hopefull of a competitive run at a big price.
Marley Roca is one I want to follow this year but I was upset at the lack of effort last time and regardless of excuses it was a poor show. However I think there is more to come when they have him right and this will possibly suit better back in trip and Dominic back up top, he's overpriced by a good bit if the run has had the effect needed. I have always been keen on Keki Buku landing a decent prize but whilst he possesses the talent and engine he can fluff his lines and likes to hit a fence. First time up might be the best time to catch this one but the odds have shrunk, stake saver only and an in running bet when you see him jumping.
Lastly Kaiser So Say is worth a wager in what is a tight handicap event at 3.30 - I have a lot of time for the effort over The Sheperd and against Baracas at Fairyhouse. Both gone underated by the assessor and has a live squeek off top weight here.
In the process of running a very good race the next time when coming down for Barry Geraghty and has plenty to come, like Masked Marvel I just hope our selection is fit enough to do himself justice.
Cracking racing and a good weekend ahead so enjoy.
Advice -
Cheltenham -
1.10 - Masked Marvel 0.5pt e/w - 25/1 General ( best price g'teed 1/4 odds and 3 places ) - promising but not today
1.45 - Marley Roca 0.5pt e/w - 20/1 General ( best price g'teed 1/4 odds and 4 places ) - seems a little outclassed in last two events now
3.30 - Kaiser So Say 0.5pt e/w - 25/1 VC and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds, 20s General ) - very poor
The Judge
RACING INFO 10th November 2011 -
No bet today
RACING INFO 9th November 2011 -
Bit of luck with the winner yesterday but probably should have had one with Night In Milan who could have won with a slightly more agressive ride although in fairness to the jockey first time over fences you are entitled to look at a few fences.
I may have gone to the loony side but Air Force One is given a chance today at Bangor to bounce back to life. All the reports from close connections and those close enough to hear about them suggested the former top class chaser was back to himself before he ran at Ascot. Well that didn't happen and so sights are seriously lowered now at Bangor this afternoon in a class 3 event that the previous Air Force One would have won with a blindfold on.
At the prices I found it very hard to be enthused about any of the rivals and so I am going to play the odds.
Just Cloudy has been supported already to win on chase debut for the smart Honeyball outfit and I think he should be well able against some poor opposition. 5s is still enough to play but I would not bet below 4s, the topweight has something to offer if fit on a return from a very long lay off but Rachel Green is competent and well worth the claim, Just Cloudy who always looked a chaser is the one to side with.
Lastly I am not sure the price about Moon Dice for the Greatwood is going to stand up over the next few days, I am going to have a bet now. The key was really found to him by Paul Flynn last year and the Galway hurdle form looks the best on offer, needs to be fresh will love the likely ground and is a clear favourite on my tissue at present. Might well back another on the day but I expect this may go off around half the current odds.
Have a good day and good luck.
Advice -
Bangor 2.10 - Air Force One 0.5pt e/w - 9/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds ) - this one is sure to be retired and ready for a nice field, owes nobody anything of course!
Exeter 3.20 - Just Cloudy 0.5pt Win - 5/1 W Hill, Boyles ( best price g'teed, 5s also with Coral and 11/2 Ladbrokes ) - fell at the first!
Cheltenham - Sunday, Greatwood Hurdle
Moon Dice 0.75pt e/w - 8/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds )
The Judge
RACING INFO 8th November 2011 -
Good morning.
Sarando went off a fantastic sp in the end and is now on route to the Hennessy, if the market has been that way in the morning I would have obviously advised a stake but I'm always against betting below the 5/2 marker in any race.
Ebanour was very novicey over the hurdles and wil of course improve, that didn't look a great race though and I was dissapointed he wasn't a bit straighter for the run last time.
Some notebook horses out from last season and before in the case of the first wager.
Going Wrong looks to have a nice career ahead of him over fences for Ferdy Murphy and ran better than I expected in return to the track last time after injury. He lines up today in a race that may seem a good bit below his level in a few more runs so I am surprised he is not a pretty lively favourite. Ferdy's stable as always start of quitely but every reason to think they have this fella in good nick and the trip on better ground looks ideal. Should be winning races and unless there is some kind of bounce he has a bog chance today.
Night In Milan is interesting in the next race, although he won on horrid ground in February last year he cleary didn't enjoy it and then was well fancied twice in similar conditions and better races but didn't enjoy either experience.
Clearly well thought of and I had him marked as an improver who should be a nice chaser and they have gone straight to handicaps. Ground will be key and this looks perfect as well as the intermediate trip of 2m4f which is likely to suit best.
Would have won a race here but for a poor ride and has good claims today.
Lastly and again at Sedgefield I like the chances of Juxebox Melody and in similar vein to the above two selections he could be a good few steps ahead of his mark today. Already won 3 of 6 outings and would have been second to a useful type in Rumble Of Thunder on his final outing in March, albeit a well beaten second.
What is interesting is the way the Jefferson horse tugged his riders arms out each time he raced, any amount of work done over the winter to get this headstrong gelding to settle will likely see a serious one for this season.
Dougie Costello rides, the step up to 2m4f should assist and if fit enough I think he is hard to beat providing he settles a little better.
Cheltenham is coming up this weekend, I've been going through the big races and tempted to put up something before Friday, might do that tomorrow but still waiting on running plans etc so it's trappy waters for a day or two more.
Have a great day.
Sedgefield -
2.00 - Going Wrong 0.5pt Win - 3/1 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! we get a bit of luck and the 4/1SP
2.30 - Night In Milan 0.5pt Win - 4/1 VC and Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed, also with Stan James ) - might have won with a little more aggression in the saddle, nice debut though
3.00 - Juxebox Melody 0.5pt Win - 5/1 General ( best price g'teed, 11/2 in places ) - another day for this one
The Judge
RACING INFO 7th November 2011 -
Good morning.
Sarando is the interesting horse of the day being lined up for a tilt at Newbury and the Hennessy, realy ought to be winning today and at 2s is very tempting but below my usual maximum and so I may try to get on in running at anything like 5/2...currently 40s for the bigger target so a few pennies have gone on that already.
Lots of jump racing today but mostly easily avoided for punting, I am a little surprised that the layers are going to let Ebanour run at the current odds on hurdles debut for Donald McCain. He was touted for the various Festival bumpers after being bought from John Oxx and winning in a nice way first time last year.
I think his bumper form is probably a bit better than the hot pot Henderson horse and in a match up the odds look wrong today.
I'm sure both will want further this season but no reason the smart flat bred wont act nicely on quicker ground and at two miles, surely needed the spin last time and may be up to rattling Speed Master's cage today - certainly a bit of value to do so.
Delighted Timmy Murphy rides as him and Donald have struck up a good relationship recently.
Advice -
Southwell 3.55 - Ebanour 0.5pt Win - 6/1 VC and Boyles ( best price g'teed, 11/2 General ) - will improve but this wasn't the hardest race so expected better
The Judge
RACING INFO 6th November 2011 -
Decent day at the office yesterday; apart from Songe we got a run and return from all the selections so that's often all you can ask for in such competitive racing and you need a bit of luck to get out in front!
It's Cork National day and a pretty open renewal but whilst I know Smoking Aces can win a race like this off his mark and Another Palm has been targeted here I am more inclined to chance For A Finish at the prices. The Eoin Doyle trained chaser has been steadily climbing the ranks and was one of a few that had their race ruined last time but lines up in an easier field now and is a bigger price.
Assuming he has forgotten about that scramble at the first fence in Limerick I can see Shay Barry having a nice ride and getting involved. Carries weight no problem and has suitable experience and some chase form above most here, plus a course win and a the trip is a plus looks a fair e/w play.
At Ffos Las we might see more urgency from No Principles than on the comeback run at Aintree, it's good to see Denis O'Regan booked and starting a little closer to the pace can see this one come through at the finish with something to chase. I have hopes that the mark will be proved a little lenient and we should see whether that is the case today. A good price to chance e/w again and seems to be under the radar in what is a drop in grade for the selection and not the hottest contest.
Have a good day and best of luck.
Advice -
Cork 2.15 - For A Finish 0.5pt e/w - 12/1 BET365 and 14/1 Ladbrokes ( best price g'teed and 4 places 1/4 odds ( others only go 3 places ) - solid but not up to the finish
Ffos Las 3.10 - No Principles 0.5pt e/w - 9/1 BET365 and Boyles ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds, 10s in places ) - be wary of this fella now, not seeing out his races
The Judge
RACING INFO 5th November 2011 -
Great day of racing ahead again with the fun at Churchill Downs in the evening if you have enough stamina for it!
We're sticking closer to home and two races at Doncaster I want to play in starting with the 2.00 where I can't let The Confessor off the hook just yet. Obviously doesn't really owe us anything this year and has gone close a couple of times but possibly this is the best chance he has had with the ground said to be genuinely offering cut and that will play to the strengths of our selection more than most.
Ran with credit all year and should be hard to keep out of the finish again, decent booking and hopefully off to a good start for the day.
In the November Handicap it's easy to see the profile angles of Willing Foe and Pekan Star who could both be lurkers of a higher standard in a handicap. I like the chances of Classic Vintage and think that the improved effort with the blinkers last time has gone a bit unnoticed. Amanda Perrett may have just found the key and indeed this gelding ran well here last year so is entitled to take a hand whilst in such good nick.
The ground again may well tip the balance in his favour and with these whip rules I do think Jim Crowley is a go to man in the longer distance and softer ground events, seriously strong and has a willing type who has conditions right today to go to war with. Overpriced and with 5 places it's a decent e/w play and hopefully he can put it all together again with the headgear.
Over the jumps the best bet of the day could be the returning chaser The Minack who looked set for the top at the Nicholls yard last year and is given a big chance to pick up a good prize at Wincanton in the Badger Ales. He's a little short in the market but I can't make much of a case against him with the field and he's worth a bet as he should outclass them if fit and well.
At Sandown I want to be with Pantxoa and I'm happy to see Choc take the reigns of the two runners for the King yard. This is one I have a lot of time for and if they have continued the work of teaching him to settle and finish his races then his starting mark is way off what he can achieve this term. There are some good yardsticks in this field so he will need to be fit but the King yard have got the good ones to the track in good nick so far and I'd be hopeful of a good show.
Lastly Songe looks about double the right price in the handicap chase he won last year provided he is none the worse for the tumble last time. Felix De Giles is up and that's a solid booking for the yard in fine fettle, he still has some potential to realise over fences being only 7yo.
I do respect the topweight as one to beat but he could have an edge today and is worth a chance at the prices.
Have a great day and good luck.
Advice -
Doncaster 2.00 - The Confessor 0.5pt e/w - 10/1 General ( best price g'teed 4 places and 1/4 odds ) - another solid run, placed
Sandown 2.25 - Songe 0.5pt Win - 15/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - no joy
Sandown 3.00 - Panxtoa 0.5pt e/w - 15/2 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/4 odds ) - 2nd, race was farcical and this was a nice pipe opener - drifted to 12s SP
Doncaster 3.10 - Classic Vintage 0.5pt e/w - 16/1 BET365 and P Power ( best price g'teed 5 places and 1/4 odds, 16s general 4 places.... ) - we collect with 5th place and a solid run, slightly hampered when it got going and might have been closer
Wincanton 3.20 - The Minack 0.75pt Win - 9/2 General ( best price g'teed ) - WINNER!!! reels in the stable mate in good fashion
The Judge
RACING INFO 4th November 2011 -
Great to see Joncol back, he could be in for a very good year now as that was impressive yesterday, hard to know what kind of Cooldine he beat but it's a great way to start the season and a force to be reckoned with again this year in top chases.
Our selection yesterday needs further with that step up in trip not enough to keep pace with the quicker ground speed of his rivals, a very honest and game horse who will win races though I hope.
Today will show some more clues to the season ahead with some smart ones out in Ireland, it will be good to watch rather than bet in though.
I do think Jigalo is worth a chance to put it all together in the handicap chase at 3.35, this is a very suitable task after some excellent efforts in better races and as a proper bridle horse Down Royal is the place to be. Has ability beyond the current mark when the cards fall right and does battle in a finish if only for a short while before flatenning out!
I think the makr for Regal Destruval is a bit stiff and I hope he will set it up nicely for the ones who can travel well in behind, Just Friends likewise is rated high enough and will need to improve for the first run of the year under Ruby who retains the ride.
There is reason to believe Jigalo will just have to run up to recent efforts to be involved and hopefully will stick his neck out towards the line for Davy Condon.
The other bet is apparently on many peoples radar this morning and O Malley's Oscar could be a little special for the Suzy Smith yard this season. Kid gloves have been applied somewhat to his racing so far but was always going to make proper strides over fences once deemed ready and they go straight to handicap company today with a talented claimer up and pieces on.
I would not be at all surprised if found this a very simple assignment but with fitness and first crack at the fences under rules naturally you have to be cautious. I'm betting him though and will keep him on side for a while I would imagine this term.
Breeders Cup tonight will be good fun I will no doubt be putting some thoughts over on the betsmarttrading forum - I don't usually bet properly on the action over there although it is a must watch event.
Advice -
Fontwell 2.50 - O Malley's Oscar 0.5pt Win - 13/2 General ( best price g'teed, 7s and above in places so shop around ) - very well backed but poor effort again.....
Down Royal 3.35 - Jigalo 0.5pt e/w - 7/1 General ( best price g'teed 3 places and 1/5 odds ) - ran well, 2nd
The Judge
RACING INFO 3rd November 2011 -
A super chase in store at Thurles and Joncol would be my selection but first time back it's no great betting at tight odds. Cooldine if back to his best gets the weight allowance so a watching brief but I do hope Nolan and Geraghty can get the giant back on track.
One bet though at Musselburgh and Beneficial Reform is a nice nice chaser in the making and did well enough on first experience last time but this stiffer test looks just what is required.
He's got a bit to do at the conditions of this event but I think he will be capable, already a pointing winner and one I have hopes for against some really unconvincing chasing types today. Should be good enough on just his 4th start under rules and clear favourite on my tissue so merits an interest at the odds.
Have a great day.
Advice -
Muss 2.00 - Beneficial Reform 0.5pt Win - 100/30 General ( best price g'teed ) - not good enough, needs even further
The Judge
RACING INFO 2nd November 2011 -
No Bet Today
RACING INFO 1st November 2011 -
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