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“I’ve long been a follower of Mark’s having initially been his editor many moons ago on Sports Advisor. Having worked closely with him then it’s no surprise that he’s gone on to become one of the most knowledgeable and incisive pundits in the sport. He works hard on behalf of his readers and has established some great contacts.”
Andrew BALDING, Ralph BECKETT, Karl BURKE, Roger CHARLTON, William HAGGAS, David O’MEARA, Roger VARIAN, Ed WALKER, Ian WILLIAMS.
The Top 40 Prospects - last year’s produced Royal Ascot winners CRYSTAL OCEAN, DASH OF SPICE & WITHOUT PAROLE.
Ballydoyle Juveniles – 8 well bred unraced Two Year olds trained by Aidan O’Brien
Handicap Snips – Last year’s article unearthed DIOCLETIAN (33/1), FIRST ELEVEN (8/1 & 5/2) & VICTORY CHIME (6/1, 5/4 & 8/1)
Maidens In Waiting – CRYSTAL HOPE (14/1) & PILASTER (12/1, Evens & 11/4) were featured last season.
Significant Sales – 6 horses who will be racing for new connections this summer having gone under the hammer in recent months. GUNMETAL (10/1, 9/2, 10/1) & MAGIC CIRCLE (8/1 & 11/2) were highlighted twelve months ago.
Stable Gossip – the latest news from Sir Michael Stoute’s powerful yard
Unraced Three Year Olds – 21 horses who didn’t see a racecourse last year but are expected to make up for lost time this season.
What’s The Craic In Ireland? – 10 horses from the Emerald Isle who are expected to develop into high-class performers this year. MAGIC WAND (Cheshire Oaks & Ribblesdale Stakes) was featured in 2018.
Appendix
Index
How To Order
Price: £9.99 including postage (£14.99 overseas)
Available direct from:
Mark Howard Publications Ltd. 69 Fairgarth Drive, Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth, Lancashire. LA6 2FB.
Available from specialist horse racing shops:
TINDALLS (Newmarket)
RACEFORM (via www.racingpost.com/shop)
ISBN: 978-0-9929224-7-4
Once again, I shall be producing 3 Ahead On The Flat Updates. The first Update will be a preview of the prestigious Royal Ascot meetingin June, the second will be a preview of the historic four day York Ebor meeting in August and the third will concentrate on the major Autumn races. There will be an in-depth analysis of races such as the Cambridgeshire, Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe and Cesarewitch. Please note, the Updates are ONLY AVAILABLE VIA EMAIL (Not Post).
It is £10 for the Royal Ascot Update and £6 for the York & Autumn Updates (or £19 for ALL 3) via EMAIL.
Summary of last year’s 3 Ahead On The Flat Updates:
What The Clients Said:
“I have been backing horses for over forty years but last week was my most profitable ever and it's all down to yourself and your excellent publication AOTF truly remarkable. Many thanks indeed.” C.Y.
“Just to thank you for the Chester Cup. Winner Magic Circle top class information also AOTF has already given many good price winners an exceptional read once again.” C.Y.
“Just have to say that your book has been brilliant and especially with Ajman King, Dash Of Spice and Without Parole to name just a few. Far too cheap at the price, a price increase is justified!” J.M.
“Omg Mark I'm not a heavy punter but enjoy your books and the gems you unearth Diocletian 50/1 was certainly that plus Dash of Spice and Sam Gold was a very rewarding trixie Great work.” B.F.
“Just a quick note to compliment you on an excellent Update for Royal Ascot. I’ve had a very positive meeting following your information both in the update and AOTF book.” M.P.
“I'm not as clued up on the Flat as I am National Hunt and with the information provided by Mark in Ahead On The Flat and the Updates I'm always confident of a winner. Merchant Navy @ 10/1 for the Diamond Jubilee. Brilliant information as always.” J.W.
“Well done with Withhold. The advice for the big long distance handicaps has been excellent. Looking forward to the Cesarewitch tip!” G.M.
“Thanks for a great year on the flat, your info about Festivals and the daily info given in Ahead on the Flat has made the flat racing season a pleasure. Fantastic insights and tips have made me a profit I only bet small my normal bet is a fiver, Keep the books coming I am looking forward to one jump ahead for the winter. Great stuff thank you.” M.G.
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8 WINNERS: CALYX (Advised @ 3/1 WON @ 2/1), WITHOUT PAROLE (Advised @ 11/4 WON @ 9/4), SETTLE FOR BAY (Advised @ 16/1), STRADIVARIUS (Advised @ 9/4 WON @ 7/4), AGROTERA (Advised @ 14/1 WON @ 11/2), DASH OF SPICE (Advised @ 10/1 WON @ 7/2), CRYSTAL OCEAN (Advised @ 6/4 WON @ 4/7), MERCHANT NAVY (4/1)
Plus: 11 places including ADVERTISE (Advised @ 16/1 2nd @ 10/1), SABRE (2nd @ 12/1), TIS MARVELLOUS (Advised @ 25/1 4thin the Wokingham)
Quote: “CALYX is trained by John Gosden who won this in 2004 with Iceman. It is only ten days since the son of Kingman (his first winner as a stallion) made a sparkling racecourse debut but he has reportedly come out of the race very well. Like his father, he was introduced at the July course at Newmarket and he blitzed his eight rivals by upwards of five lengths (his dad won by six lengths). Hooded in the paddock beforehand, he raced quite keenly early on but travelled strongly before quickly putting the race to bed. The runner-up had won beforehand and, provided the occasion doesn’t get to him and stall 22 isn’t a disadvantage, he looks a major player. It is a quick turnaround but it is worth remembering Gosden produced Ardad to win the Windsor Castle Stakes six days after a winning debut at Yarmouth a couple of years ago.” Advised @ 3/1 WON the Coventry Stakes @ 3/1
Quote: “WITHOUT PAROLE looks a colt with huge potential having won all three of his career starts. Officially rated 109, he was a six lengths winner at Newcastle on his sole start at two before scoring by the same margin on his reappearance at Yarmouth (runner-up has won since and is rated 90), conceding seven pounds. The son of Frankel was forced to miss the 2000 Guineas due to a foot problem but he returned with a hard fought win in the Listed Heron Stakes at Sandown. Despite being unsuited by the rain softened ground, he prevailed by three parts of a length from Gabr (fifth in the Racing Post Trophy last year). John Gosden, who won this with Kingman in 2014, believes he wants fast ground. This will be his first run above Listed level and the last horse to complete the Heron Stakes/St James’s Palace Stakes double was Kris in 1979.”Advised @ 11/4 WON the St James’s Palace Stakes @ 9/4
Quote: “SETTLE FOR BAY is trained in Ireland by David Marnane, who sent out Dandy Boy to win the Wokingham Handicap six years ago. The same handler has a live contender for this having won 5 of his 12 career starts. A gelded son of Rio De La Plata, who is rated 99, won four times on the all-weather at Dundalk between November last year and January 2018 (all over a mile). His rating rose from 76 to his current mark. His record on turf reads one win from six starts and the four year old ran a cracker at Leopardstown (Good) last month when finishing three lengths fourth behind Zorion (has won a Listed race since) over seven furlongs. Having encountered traffic problems, he finished strongly. His trainer commented in January: “He’ll get a break now as he’s won his four races but he’s obviously an exciting horse for the summer when he fills out a bit. Long-term, he could be a Royal Hunt Cup horse.” His record over a mile is 51111. Best Price: 16/1 (Bet365, Coral, Ladbrokes, Skybet, William Hill).” Advised @ 16/1 WON the Royal Hunt Cup
Quote: “Ed Walker has yet to train a winner at the Royal meeting but the Lambourn based handler believes AGROTERA could be a Pattern filly in the making. If that’s the case, the daughter of Mastercraftsman ought to go well off an opening mark of 88 for her handicap debut. Sixth on her only start as a juvenile at Newmarket last backend, she was beaten a length by Dathanna (now seven pounds better off) in a conditions event over this C&D in May (soft). She then lost her maiden tag at Windsor with a length and a half victory from Four White Socks (won since) less than three weeks later. It was her first run on fast ground and it bodes well for her chances here. This has been her target ever since.”Advised @ 14/1 WON the Sandringham Handicap @ 11/2
Quote: “DASH OF SPICE tackled a mile and a half for the first time in a seemingly competitive handicap at Epsom on Derby day. David Elsworth’s four year old destroyed his sixteen rivals by upwards of six lengths making all off a mark of 87. Raised eleven pounds, he looked a Pattern horse in the making last time and has only raced half a dozen times. Although the son of Teofilo has yet to race on good to firm ground, a couple of his relations Barshiba and Dashing Star both won on such a surface. His trainer has had 15 winners at Royal Ascot but none since 2007, which ironically was his half-sister Barshiba in the Sandringham Handicap.”Advised @ 10/1 WON the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes @ 7/2
Quote: “MERCHANT NAVY is featured on page 131 of Ahead On The Flat and he attempts to become the first three year old to win the race since Art Connoisseur in 2009. Previously trained in Australia by Ciaron Maher and Aaron Purcell, he was a Grade 1 winner at Flemington last November before finishing third on his next two starts. Beaten a neck by Redkirk Warrior (receiving twelve pounds) in the Newmarket Handicap at Flemington in March (6f), he then joined Aidan O’Brien. The son of Fastnet Rock had reportedly done very little work prior to making a winning start for the head of Ballydoyle. A length winner of the Group 2 Greenlands Stakes at the Curragh last month, he beat the likes of Tasleet and Brando and is expected to improve markedly for the run. His record over six furlongs is 11131 and he is a winner on soft and fast ground. O’Brien has tasted Royal Ascot success with ex-Australian trained horses such as Haradasun (Queen Anne Stakes in 2008), Starspangledbanner (this race in 2010) and So You Think (Prince of Wales’s Stakes in 2012).” WON the Diamond Jubilee Stakes @ 4/1
WINNERS: AXE AXELROD (2/1), LIFE ON EARTH (6/4, 11/8), SPANISH ARCHER (15/8), TIMESPAN (7/1), WITHHOLD (Advised @ 6/1 WON the Northumberland Plate @ 5/1)
Quote: “Roger Charlton won the Northumberland Plate three years ago with Quest For More and the Beckhampton trainer intends unleashing his Cesarewitch winner WITHHOLD in the two mile event on Saturday week (30th June). Granted a favourable draw, the five year old must have an outstanding chance even though he is set to race off a twelve pounds higher mark than when beating the ill-fated London Prize by nearly four lengths on the Rowley Mile last Autumn. Still unexposed over staying trips (record over two miles plus 211), he has experience on the all-weather having finished runner-up at Kempton in September 2016 and the Champs Elysees gelding has only raced twice for Charlton having been bought out of Charlie Hills’ yard for 170,000gns. His long-term aim is the Melbourne Cup and his trainer feels he needs to reach a mark of around 110 to qualify (see page 62 in Ahead On The Flat). Therefore he will be primed for his trip to Gosforth Park. Available at 6/1 with Skybet and William Hill, I wouldn’t put clients off backing him sooner rather than later because, if the Cesarewitch is anything to go by, Withhold could be the subject of another plunge in the market.” Advised @ 6/1 WON the Northumberland Plate by two and three quarters of a length
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5 WINNERS: PHOENIX OF SPAIN (Advised @ 8/1 WON @ 9/2), FAIRYLAND (Advised @ 4/1 WON @ 6/4), SEA OF CLASS (7/4), URBAN ASPECT (5/1), LORD GLITTERS (Advised @ 3/1 WON @ 2/1)
Plus: FINAL VENTURE (Advised @ 12/1 – 2nd @ 8/1), KYNREN (Advised @ 14/1 – 2nd @ 5/1), MABS CROSS (Advised @ 16/1 – 2nd @ 14/1)
Quote: “PHOENIX OF SPAIN cost 220,000gns and is a half-brother to Central Square, Lucky Beggar and Kingsdesire. The Lope De Vega colt caught the eye when a running on fourth on his racecourse bow at Sandown last month. Beaten four and a half lengths, the runner-up and aforementioned Persian Moon has won twice since. Charlie Hills’ charge confirmed the promise when running out a decisive two and a half lengths winner at Wolverhampton next time. Entered in the Champagne Stakes, Royal Lodge and Dewhurst Stakes, he bids to give his trainer his second win in the race following the victory of Dutch Connection four years ago.”Advised @ 8/1 WON @ 9/2
Quote: “FAIRYLAND is one of six entries for Aidan O’Brien and, if lining up, she will arrive a fresh filly having not raced since finishing three parts of a length third in the Albany Stakes. The Kodiac filly emerged from stall 5 while the first two home came out of stalls 15 and 11 and she was forced to commit a long way from home on the far side. A 925,000gns purchase, she had previously won at Naas and the Curragh. A two and a quarter lengths winner of the Listed Marble Hill Stakes, she beat the colts including her stablemates Van Beethoven and Land Force (won twice since including the Group 2 Richmond Stakes). A winner on good to yielding and good to firm, she looks set to play a major role in a race her trainer has yet to win.”Advised @ 4/1 WON @ 6/4
Quote: “URBAN ASPECT is improving at a rapid rate of knots having failed to see a racecourse last year. A colt by Cityscape out of the stable’s Oaks winner Casual Glance, he is a half-brother to Chester Cup consolation winner Look My Way. Third on his debut on soft ground at Chepstow, he has won twice since at Chester and Nottingham. A length and a quarter winner at the former, the second and fourth have won since, and then he followed it up with a five lengths victory at the latter. Set to make his handicap debut off a mark of 93, Andrew Balding has sent out 14 winners in the last fortnight.” WON @ 5/1
Quote: “LORD GLITTERS is second top rated with a mark of 116 having run some terrific races this season. Runner-up in the Lincoln behind the well handicapped Addeybb off a mark of 107 (conceded eight pounds), he then finished half a length runner-up in the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot behind Accidental Agent. Beaten a neck by Beat The Bank in the Group 2 Summer Mile over the same C&D (round track), David O’Meara’s grey was then two lengths third in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood last time. Twice a winner over ten furlongs in France, this represents a drop in class as he bids to provide his trainer with his third win in the race (Custom Cut (2014) & Mondialiste (2015)).” Advised @ 3/1 WON @ 2/1
THE JUVENILE SCENE: 1ST TIME OUT WINNERS: COURT POET (5/4), FASHION’S STAR (3/1), HEADMAN (8/13), KADAR (5/2) & PRINCE EIJI (4/1), plus DANDHU (4/1) & SPARKLE ROLL (15/2)
Quote: “Roger Charlton has had a quiet season thus far in terms of his juveniles with only one winner but the Beckhampton trainer is believed to be responsible for an above average filly in the unraced FASHION’S STAR. A daughter of Sea The Stars, she was an expensive breeze-up buy (€400,000) and has been given entries in the Group 2 Rockfel Stakes and Group 1 Fillies’ Mile both at Newmarket. She is one to watch out for on her debut.”WON on her debut at Newbury (21/9/18) @ 3/1
Quote: “Stablemate HEADMAN is another unraced two year old from Beckhampton to keep tabs on. His sire Kingman has made a fine start to his stallion career producing exciting prospects Calyx and King of Comedy already and this Khalid Abdulla owned colt has shown the right signs at home. He is entered in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at the end of next month.” WON by three and three quarters of a length on his debut at Newcastle (1/11/18) @ 8/13
Quote: “The Karl Burke trained KADAR was due to make his racecourse debut at Haydock earlier this month but was withdrawn. Owned by Phoenix Thoroughbred Limited, the son of Scat Daddy was acquired for €700,000 at the Arqana breeze-ups in May. Out of a dam who won over a mile and a half, he has been entered in the Champagne Stakes at Doncaster, National Stakes at the Curragh and Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket. He could be an exciting prospect for his big spending owners.”WON on his debut at Haydock (6/9/18) @ 5/2
Quote: “The impeccably bred PRINCE EIJI attracted plenty of attention at the yearling sales last Autumn. A son of Dubawi out of Group 1 winning mare Izzi Top, he is therefore a half-brother to stablemate Willie John and Wokingham Stakes runner-up Dreamfield. He was bought by Roger Varian at the Tattersalls October Yearling Sales for 2,600,000gns on behalf of Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum. His first racecourse appearance is hopefully one to look forward to.” WON on his debut at Ascot (7/9/18) @ 4/1
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CAMBRIDGESHIRE: WISSAHICKON (Advised @ 12/1 WON @ 11/1)
Quote: “WISSAHICKON (21) is a three year old colt by Tapit and a half-brother to dual Group 1 winner Rainbow View. Rated 107, he has won 4 of his 6 races and is trained by John Gosden who, as discussed, has won this three times with Halling (3yo – 1994), Pipedreamer (3yo – 2007) and Tazeez (2008). He has only raced twice on the turf winning a ten furlongs handicap at York off a mark of 94. Too keen when disappointing at Newmarket’s July meeting, he returned to winning ways at Chelmsford last month when beating Blue Mist (runner-up again since) by a length and a quarter off 101. He was conceding a stone to Roger Charlton’s runner-up. Significantly, Robert Havlin commented at York in June: “He could win a nice one mile two or one mile one handicap, he is not short of speed.” That suggests this may have been the plan for a while. He has only raced on fast ground as regards the turf and Frankie Dettori (81) takes the ride. Best Price: 12/1 (Coral).”Advised @ 12/1 WON the Cambridgeshire by three and three quarters of a length @ 11/1
CESAREWITCH: CLEONTE (Advised @ 16/1 – 3rd) & VIS A VIS (Advised @ 20/1 – 4th @ 10/1)
Quote: “CLEONTE is trained by Andrew Balding whose father Ian won the race in 2001 with Distant Prospect. This five year old was trained in France by Andre Fabre and he beat Marmelo (won a Group 2 this year and is now rated 113) by two and a half lengths in a Listed contest at Deauville in August 2016. Disappointing in five starts for Balding last season, he was gelded during the winter and has returned to form in 2018. Six and a half lengths ninth in the Ascot Stakes in June (ground too quick), he was only beaten around four lengths behind Stratum in the JLT Cup at Newbury despite meeting trouble in running. The Sir Percy gelding was back in the winners’ enclosure last time when beating Stars Over The Sea (won the Cesarewitch Trial at HQ by ten lengths since) at Ascot’s Shergar Cup meeting off a mark of 92. Only raised three pounds since, he is still well handicapped on the pick of his French form (rated 101 when he joined Balding) and his trainer commented this month: “The race has always been Cleonte’s objective. He’s in great form and conditions should suit.” Ideally suited by some cut in the ground, he will hopefully be ridden by Oisin Murphy for the first time or talented apprentice Jason Watson (24). Best Price: 16/1 (generally).” Advised @ 16/1 – 3rd in the Cesarewitch.
Quote: “VIS A VIS is trained by Neil Mulholland who bids to follow in the footsteps of fellow National Hunt trainers Nicky Henderson, Alan King and Philip Hobbs by winning this during the last ten years. The four year old was trained in France by David Smaga and he won over a mile and six at Clairefontaine (Good/Soft) in August 2017 before being bought for 30,000gns in November last year. Unbeaten in two races for his new connections, he won by a head at Sandown in June off a mark of 80 on his UK debut. The son of Dansili then produced an even better display to beat Just In Time (won 2 out of 2 since, including the Mallard Handicap at Doncaster) by two and three quarters of a length at Kempton in August off a two pounds higher mark. It was the first time he had tackled two miles and saw out the trip thoroughly. Raised a further eight pounds, he has only raced ten times and is unexposed over staying trips. His trainer reported in September: “The Cesarewitch is the target and hopefully he’ll go straight there. He’s done well and the form looks good. Grass, juice in the ground and a bit further will hopefully bring out a bit more improvement.” He is very much one for the shortlist. Best Price: 20/1 (Boylesports, Coral, Ladbrokes, Paddy Power).” Advised @ 20/1 – 4th in the Cesarewitch @ 10/1
MIDDLE PARK STAKES: TEN SOVEREIGNS (8/13)
Quote: “TEN SOVEREIGNS was one of four entries trained by Aidan O’Brien at the five day stage. A colt by No Nay Never who cost 200,000gns, he has looked potentially top-class in two starts this year. A runaway seven lengths winner on his first start at the Curragh in August, he reappeared a week later and won the Group 3 Round Tower Stakes by three and three quarters of a length from Bruce Wayne (the third Fantasy is rated 92). Sent off 1/3 favourite, he was immediately targeted at this afterwards and his stable have already won the race five times (Minardi (2000), Johannesburg (2001), Ad Valorem (2004), Crusade (2011) & US Navy Flag (2017)).” WON @ 8/13
AUTUMN STAKES: PERSIAN KING (6/5)
Quote: “Andre Fabre has indicated the aforementioned PERSIAN KING could run here instead of the Lagardere, if the ground isn’t suitable at Longchamp. Held in the highest regard, Fabre wants to give the colt experience of the Rowley Mile because he believes he could be a Guineas horse next spring. If lining up here, help yourself.” WON @ 6/5
including postage (except £5 extra for overseas)
Foreword by Nick LUCK, 7 times Broadcaster of The Year
“Whenever I am lucky enough to work with Mark Howard on Racing UK, it rains. Often it rains quite hard; sometimes it is also cold; either way, it always rains.
If we are rostered together at Chester in May or York in August, the morning can look quite promising, only for the black clouds to gather in time with the first bar of the opening credits. Mark, invariably without a coat suitable to withstand the elements, complains far less than the southern softie sitting on his left, safe in the knowledge that his subscribers are about to be the grateful recipients of another winner.
Over time, this has reinforced two things: first, that he is extremely well-suited to the more rugged demands of the winter game and, second, that his ability as an accurate forecaster remains peerless. As such, it is hardly surprising that One Jump Ahead is more successful than ever after all these years.
I think it is true for many of us that we only really start to re-engage with the jumping season when the leaves start to fall and the Racing Post start to publish details of trainers’ Open Days. For Mark, sourcing the best horses and most important power bases in National Hunt racing is a year-round labour of love. He is constantly able to take the pulse of jump racing, which is why - for example - a trainer like Tom Lacey was given a full stable tour in last year’s edition on the back of a season that had yielded 21 winners without a whole load of fanfare.
Duly, Lacey then pumped out 39 winners at a remarkable 25% strike rate, delivering a level-stakes-profit of £79.80. Similarly, Mark recognised that Olly Murphy’s start to his career was so unusual that it needed a prominent position in this book before it was a given that he would become another West Midlands powerhouse. They are featured once again, alongside so many of the OJA regulars like Paul Nicholls, Philip Hobbs and Alan King, who have given so generously of their time over the years.
Of other inclusions this time around, it was great to see the burgeoning fortunes of Fergal O’Brien and Anthony Honeyball, to witness the renaissance (reflected here) of the prolific Donald McCain and to see such a depth of quality in the novice hurdling team of Kim Bailey, who arguably has his strongest squad since his mid-90s heyday.
And of course - getting down to brass tacks - Mark can consistently find you quality animals amongst his Top 40 Prospects. With such a distillation of quality in the top stables, it is sometimes hard (and foolish) to look beyond the obvious, but here there is always a nugget or two: this time last year, I might only have needed it confirmed that Samcro was the second coming, but I confess to knowing next to nothing about Black Op until I read about him between these covers.
Mark has again produced a belter here - there are few stones unturned and most angles covered. Industry and professionalism shine through again, but most of you already know that - come rain or rain - One Jump Ahead will never let you down.”
Owners’ Enclosure – Exclusive interview with Jared SULLIVAN
25 horses covered – in training with Nicky Henderson, Willie Mullins, Harry Fry, Olly Murphy
Rich RICCI & racing manager Joe CHAMBERS nominate their horse to follow for 2018/2019
Stable Interviews:
Kim BAILEY (37 horses featured), Harry FRY (49), Philip HOBBS (69), Anthony HONEYBALL (24), Alan KING (70), Tom LACEY (26), Donald McCAIN (53), Olly MURPHY (38), Paul NICHOLLS (84), Fergal O’BRIEN (39), David PIPE (39).
Quotes from One Jump Ahead:
“I think he is one of our best youngsters and he is a horse I am very much looking forward to.” PHILIP HOBBS
“I think he is exceptional.” TOM LACEY
“He was recommended to me and I think he is an exciting prospect.” DONALD McCAIN
“We have a very nice team of horses for the winter and I would say this is the one I am most looking forward to.” OLLY MURPHY
“We have given him lots of time since and he now looks twice the horse he was.” ALAN KING
“He is a gorgeous-looking horse whom I knew well and I am sure he will be a well-known name by the season’s end.” Leading Bloodstock agent ANTHONY BROMLEY
“This is a very exciting horse, the sheer power of his gallop could lead to a stellar track future.” DECLAN PHELAN, Irish point-to-point expert
One Jump Ahead (160 pages) also features the following sections:
The Top 40 Prospects – 21 of the 40 have yet to race for their new trainer/connections. Last year’s Top 40 Prospects produced a level stakes PROFIT of £58.90 (£10 stake). They included 5 Grade 1 winners, namely BLACK OP, DORTMUND PARK (12/1 & 16/1), FINIAN’S OSCAR, LALOR (14/1) and SAMCRO (4 wins including the Ballymore NH at Cheltenham).
Bromley’s Best Buys – Leading Bloodstock Agent ANTHONY BROMLEY highlights 32 new recruits from France and Ireland. 29 winners at a strike-rate of 27% in last year’s article, including the unbeaten Grade 1 winner WE HAVE A DREAM (5 from 5) and ON THE BLIND SIDE (3 wins).
Changing Codes – half a dozen Flat horses who are set to go hurdling for the first time.
English Pointers – my Racing UK colleague JONATHAN NEESOM picks 12 horses who raced between the flags in the UK last season and caught his eye. His selections in the 2017/2018 edition yielded a £10 level stakes PROFIT of £93.80 with a strike-rate of 40%. They included CAPTAIN CATTISTOCK (3 wins), DAN MCGRUE (2 wins) and Grade 1 winning novice hurdler SANTINI (3 wins).
French Revolution - 42 horses who have joined J.P.McMANUS, GORDON ELLIOTT, GIGGINSTOWN HOUSE STUD, WILLIE MULLINS (23 horses), HENRY DE BROMHEAD, TOM GEORGE, NOEL MEADE NICK WILLIAMS, VENETIA WILLIAMS and have yet to run for their new connections. Last year’s article produced 31 winners from 112 runners (28%), including smart novices ESPOIR D’ALLEN (4 wins), MITCHOUKA (4 wins), SAGLAWY (Grade 2 winner), SAINT CALVADOS (3 wins) and SHARJAH (2 wins).
Irish Pointers - expert DECLAN PHELAN highlights 54 pointers to follow from across the Irish Sea who will race under Rules this winter. Last year’s feature yielded 37 winners at an impressive strike-rate of 30% and they included CHOOSEYOURWEAPON (9/1, 5/6), GLOBAL CITIZEN (3 wins including the Grade 2 Dovecote NH), MR WHIPPED (3 wins), ON THE BLIND SIDE (3 wins including two Grade 2 victories), RAPID ESCAPE (3 wins) and SPEAK EASY (10/1).
Stable Gossip - news from leading owners TREVOR HEMMINGS & ROGER BROOKHOUSE, plus snippets from the stables of MICK EASTERBY, SUE SMITH (Unraced Bumper horse)& VENETIA WILLIAMS. Last year’s article produced 19 winners at a strike-rate of 25% showing a £10 level stakes PROFIT of £230.50 in the process. The selections included BALLYMOY (3 wins), GOOD BOY BOBBY (3 wins), I JUST KNOW (4/1), KALASHNIKOV (3 wins including the Betfair Hurdle @ 8/1) and MIDNIGHT SHADOW (11/1 & 25/1 - Scottish Champion Hurdle).
Appendix – a full and comprehensive analysis of the 2 mile chasers, 2m 4f chasers, staying chasers & 2 mile hurdlers
Index – 730 horses included
How To Order
Price: £9.99 including postage (except £5 extra for overseas)
Available direct from:
Mark Howard Publications Ltd. 69 Fairgarth Drive, Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth, Lancashire. LA6 2FB.
Also available from:
WH SMITH Ltd (ISBN: 978-0-9929224-6-7) or online from whsmith.co.uk
Other specialist horse racing shops:
TINDALLS (Newmarket)
I shall be producing 5 One Jump Ahead Updates throughout the 2017/18 National Hunt season. Each Update comprises information about the horses in One Jump Ahead, an update from top Bloodstock Agent Anthony Bromley, Bumper News, Ante-Post Advice (recommendations for the major races), Big-Race Previews and News from Ireland from one of the most informed Irish experts Declan Phelan. Please note, the Updates are ONLY AVAILABLE VIA EMAIL (Not Post).
It is £6 per Update (except £10 for the CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL version) or £34 for ALL 5 via EMAIL.
Summary of the 2016/2017 Updates:
What The Clients Said:
I shall be producing 5 One Jump Ahead Updates throughout the 2018/19 National Hunt season. Each Update comprises information about the horses in One Jump Ahead, an update from top Bloodstock Agent Anthony Bromley, Bumper News, Ante-Post Advice (recommendations for the major races), Big-Race Previews and News from Ireland from one of the most informed Irish experts Declan Phelan. Please note, the Updates are ONLY AVAILABLE VIA EMAIL (Not Post).
It is £6 per Update (except £10 for the Cheltenham Festival version) or £34 for ALL 5 via EMAIL.
Summary of the 2017/2018 Updates:
What The Clients Said:
“Very good bonus information in Spring Watch, Festival Update Mark.” K.M.
“Caribert, the icing on a very big cake. Thank you for another great tip.” D.W.
“Very impressive 14/1-12/1 second and a 3/1 nice winner today. Top up from Cheltenham much appreciated.” P.H.
“Thanks for the excellent information in Cheltenham email 1 and 2 in Lincoln no mean feat.” A.P.
“A wonderful Festival enhanced by the comments of yourself and Declan. A great read and great value - it always pays for itself!!” D.H.
“I just wanted to email to say thanks for the Cheltenham Update which provided a number of winners over the week and it proved a great help in narrowing down those big fields in what has been one of the best weeks racing I can remember. The info from the preview nights was great and from which I had Tiger Roll to win the Cross Country.” M.L.
“Well Mark where do we begin? Outstanding Cheltenham once again. Many thanks. Blow by Blow the icing on a large cake. Well played sir.” S.R.
“Nice work Mark, pretty incredible given the ground and the near misses too...great week.” M.B.
“I just wanted to thank you once again for a wonderful Cheltenham Update. Rounded off today with the Newbury result. Great value as always.” M.F.
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The PADDY POWER MEETING 2017
5 WINNERS: APPLE’S SHAKIRA (Evens), FINIAN’S OSCAR (10/11), FOX NORTON (4/5), MELROSE BOY (11/4), ON THE BLIND SIDE (9/2)
Quote: “MELROSE BOY is trained by Harry Fry who has won the last two renewals of this courtesy of Unowhatimeanharry (off 123 in 2015) and Behind Time (115 last year). Bought for €65,000 as a three year old, he is making his handicap debut off 123 having failed to win any of his three starts over hurdles last term. However, the Saint Des Saints gelding ran some good races in defeat bumping into some smart rivals. Third at Uttoxeter a year ago, he then finished seven lengths runner-up to Grade 2 winner and Skybet Supreme NH third River Wylde at Ludlow. Third at Wetherby last time, he was only beaten around two lengths by Eaton Hill and Mount Mews (Grade 2 winner and now rated 145) over two miles three. Kieron Edgar will partner him for the first time and he is very much shortlist material.” WON by 6 lengths @ 11/4
Plus: KALASHNIKOV (4/7 & 8/1), PETE SO HIGH (7/1, 100/30), SALDIER (4/9, 10/1)
Quote: “KALASHNIKOV (see page 128 in One Jump Ahead) looks set to develop into a flagbearer for his promising young trainer Amy Murphy. A two lengths winner of a bumper at Wetherby in the spring, the four year old returned to the West Yorkshire track for his hurdles debut on Charlie Hall Chase day and produced a scintillating display. Jack Quinlan’s mount jumped quickly and accurately throughout and bounded clear after the second last to register a ten lengths victory. Unlike his full-sister Kalane, he coped well with the slow ground and looks a horse with a bright future. His trainer suggested afterwards that the Kalanisi gelding will run under a penalty in another novices’ hurdle at Doncaster (2nd December).” WON TWICE, including the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury (8/1).
BROMLEY’S BEST BUYS – Part II: WINNERS: NAYATI (10/11, 8/11), REDICEAN (11/8, 8/13, 10/11) & STYLE DE GARDE (5/4).
OWNERS ENCLOSURE: JARED SULLIVAN
WINNERS: CHEF DES OBEAUX (2/5, 11/8, 13/8), CUT THE MUSTARD (3/1), DARIUS DES BOIS (7/2), DIESE DES BIEFFES (4/9, 5/2), GETAREASON (4/6), LAURINA (1/4, 13/8, 4/7, 2/11), MSASSA (1/4), RIO VIVAS (7/2), SAGLAWY (2/5, 13/8), SANDSEND (11/4), STORMY IRELAND (2/7), TURTLE WARS (3/1).
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CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2017
The IRISH ANGLE by Declan PHELAN: WINNERS: BURNING AMBITION (4/6), DANNY KIRWAN (13/8), GILGAMBOA (5/4, 6/4, 8/13), KNOW THE SCORE (1/2), SANDSEND (11/4), SOMETIME SOON (2/1), WHISPERINTHEBREEZE (6/4)
Quote: “My banker of the holiday session is in the other hunter chase at Limerick on the 27th: a maiden hunters’ chase, most of the runners will never be found guilty of winning a track race. The highly progressive BURNING AMBITION can land the prize in comfort. He won his maiden point at Cragmore in February (defeating the recent handicap winner Black Scorpion (won off 109 at Clonmel)): since then Burning Ambition has added another three wins to his tally, including two in the recent autumn session. Last time in his first spin in Open grade he hammered Sambremont at Maralin. The ground at Limerick churns up over the four day festival and the ability to handle tacky/heavy ground is vital. Burning Ambition will have no trouble on that count. Incidentally, his partner Rob James who has been a top 4 point rider for the last two seasons (amassing over 80 winners), has actually to date never partnered a track winner. Burning Ambition will set that record straight. Unfortunately, the odds of reward will not be generous: I would price him up as a comfortable odds on shot to dismiss any of his rivals in a point, if available a price in the 6/4 range should be snapped up, as this horse as upwards of two stone in hand on these modest rivals in this hunter chase (3.10 Limerick 27th).” WON by 13 lengths @ 4/6
Quote: “The hunter chase scene is about to crank up a notch or two and we have a couple of races in that code in Ireland this Festive period. GILGAMBOA has been slow to come to hand this Autumn, disappointing at Castletown Geoghegan in October: however, he dropped a vital clue that he is steadily progressing when losing out in a photo finish at the start of this month at Mainstown. He was placedfourth in the 2016 Aintree Grand National and I gather the Aintree Foxhunters in April is his main target. Race conditions are tailored to suit him in the Down Royal hunters’ chase (26th) and in a race lacking strength in depth, he should return to the winner’s enclosure.” WON at Down Royal (26th December) @ 5/4
Quote: “SOMETIME SOON: bay son of Shantou, provided trainer David Christie with his first ever four-year-old maiden winner when bolting up on his debut at Kirkistown (Yielding/Soft) in November: apparently owned then by former bookmaker John Stuart. Middle sized, he seemed to have a lovely racing attitude and was beautifully relaxed during the race for rider Barry O’Neill. Captured by Gigginstown for £225,000 at the December Sales and he will be trained by Gordon Elliott. I can see him developing into a Grade 2/3 style chaser for new connections and a likely bumper winner too.” WON @ 2/1 at Fairyhouse (24/2/18)
Plus: BENIE DES DIEUX (Evens, 9/2, 3/1), CAID DU BERLAIS (9/2), DEMI SANG (11/10), DUKE OF NAVAN (6/1), I’M TO BLAME (Evens), KILDISART (5/1), SAYO (8/11), VIRAK (10/11, 5/4), VIVALDI COLLONGES (9/2)
Quote: BENIE DES DIEUX: “Trained by Willie Mullins, the ex-French six year old has produced two tremendous rounds of jumping on both her starts over fences. A thirty lengths winner on her chasing debut at Limerick a year ago, she was forced to miss the rest of the season. However, the Great Pretender mare returned at Carlisle early this month and barely came out of second gear to beat four rivals by upwards of eight lengths in another Listed chase. I was working for Racing UK at the Cumbrian venue and spoke to her rider David Mullins afterwards. The Grand National winning jockey was very impressed and felt she could be effective from two to three miles and didn’t envisage any problems when racing on better ground. Granted luck, she could be something special and a Grade 1 winner in the making.” Won next three races, including Grade 1 wins at Cheltenham (9/2) & Punchestown (3/1).
Quote: “CAID DU BERLAIS is rated 143 over hurdles and fences and is a four times winner under Rules and has been placed twice at the Cheltenham Festival (form figures 230F8). The eight year old was eighth in the Pertemps Final last March and made his point-to-point debut at Larkhill earlier this month. Trained by Rose Loxton, he ran out an easy 20 lengths winner of a Ladies Open. It will be interesting to see if he returns to Paul Nicholls if aimed at the Foxhunters’ at Cheltenham this spring. Either way, he should have no trouble winning his share of hunter chases.” WON the Champion Hunters’ Chase at the Punchestown Festival by 21 lengths @ 9/2
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FEBRUARY 2018
CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL HANDICAPS PREVIEW: BENIE DES DIEUX (WON the mares’ hurdle (9/2)), THE STORYTELLER (WON the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase @ 5/1)). Plus: MALL DINI (2nd in the Kim Muir @ 4/1), NUBE NEGRA (3rd in the Fred Winter Hurdle @ 15/2)
Quote: “This time last year, THE STORYTELLER was being aimed at the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle having won twice at Down Royal and Thurles. Indeed, the Shantou gelding was one of the market leaders in the ante-post lists. Unfortunately, Gordon Elliott’s charge incurred an injury which ruled him out of the Festival and the remainder of his novice campaign. Rated 142, he finished a creditable runner-up behind Chateau Conti in a conditions hurdle at Fairyhouse in November on his return to action. His connections then decided to send him chasing and the seven year old jumped slickly before beating subsequent winners Sutton Manor and Livelovelaugh by upwards of four and three quarters of a length at the same track less than a month later. Stepping up in class, he contested a Grade 3 novice chase at Punchestown and appeared to have plenty more to offer when pecking badly at the penultimate fence. Although rallying to hold every chance at the final obstacle, his effort petered out on the run-in but Davy Russell’s mount was only beaten four and a half lengths by the high-class Invitation Only. Elliott will no doubt be keen for The Storyteller to head to the Festival this time around, having missed out twelve months ago. Entered in the JLT and RSA Chases, he is officially rated 147 over fences and could yet end up in one of the handicaps, namely the Ultima Chase on the opening day or the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate (2m 5f). Stablemate Diamond King was sent off 5/1 favourite for the latter event last year off a mark of 150 as a novice. The Shantou gelding would need to run once more though to qualify for the handicaps and he holds three entries over the weekend – Grade 1 Scilly Isles Novice Chase at Sandown (2.25 Saturday), Grade 1 Flogas Novice Chase at Leopardstown (3.00 Sunday) & Grade A 2m 5f handicap at Leopardstown (4.10 Sunday). He is a horse with a high cruising speed and big engine and the fact he handles good and soft ground is a bonus. Whichever race he contests at the Festival, he is worthy of a second look.” WON the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate @ 5/1
Plus: WINNERS: CASSE TETE (6/1), TOPOFTHEGAME (11/2), WESTEND STORY (5/4). Plus: BLEU ET ROUGE (Advised @ 16/1 – 2nd in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury (10/2/18))
Quote: “Despite only finishing seventh and beaten thirty six lengths, I thought CASSE TETE ran better than the statistics suggest in the Grade 3 two miles five handicap chase at Cheltenham last Saturday. The Poliglote gelding was a ten lengths winner over fences at Auteuil for Guillaume Macaire in October 2016, prior to joining Gary Moore. A twenty seven lengths winner at Sandown’s Imperial Cup meeting last spring on his fourth run for his new connections, he jumped badly left at Ascot on his reappearance before Christmas and never got involved. Back in action a month later at the Trials meeting last weekend, he held every chance at the top of the hill but couldn’t land a blow before keeping on. Casse Tete is related to a two miles seven winner in France and looks well worth a try over a longer trip. Still only six and lightly raced over fences, I will be surprised if there isn’t more mileage in his rating of 133 (dropped four pounds).” WON next time at Warwick @ 6/1
Quote: TOPOFTHEGAME: “Raised three pounds since, he looks well worth a try over three miles for the first time under Rules and the giant gelding gets the opportunity at Sandown on Saturday (3.00) in an ultra competitive eighteen runner handicap hurdle.” WON at Sandown @ 11/2
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The CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL 2018
8 WINNERS: COO STAR SIVOLA (5/1), BUVEUR D’AIR (4/6), SAMCRO (8/11), ALTIOR (Evens), DELTA WORK (Advised @ 14/1), THE STORYTELLER (Advised @ 10/1), LAURINA (Advised @ 8/11), BLOW BY BLOW (Advised @ 20/1)
Quote: “COO STAR SIVOLA is trained by Nick Williams who came agonisingly close to winning the 2009 renewal with Maljimar only to be collared close home by a galvanised Wichita Lineman. Rated 140 over hurdles, the six year old boasts good Festival form having finished third in the Fred Winter Juvenile Hurdle in 2016 and fourth in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ HH last year. Having run well in defeat against the likes of Finian’s Oscar, Kalondra and Frodon over fences earlier in the season, he appreciated the step up to three miles for the first time at Exeter last month when winning a novices’ handicap by fourteen lengths off 135. Raised seven pounds since, his record at Cheltenham is 23164324 with his form figures on the Old course reading 233. A handful of novices have won this in the last fourteen years and there is no reason why he won’t go close. He handles any ground.” WON the Ultima Handicap Chase @ 5/1
Quote: “DELTA WORK was a winner on the Flat in France for Emmanuel Clayeux before joining Gordon Elliott. A twenty lengths winner on good ground at Punchestown last May, he has run well in defeat since. The Network gelding was third behind stablemate Samcro in a Grade 3 at Navan before finishing runner-up in a Grade 2 at Limerick. Less than four lengths fourth behind behind Total Recall in a three miles handicap at Leopardstown last month, he was conceding eight pounds to Willie Mullins’ Ladbrokes Trophy Chase winner. Three and a half lengths third last time in a Pertemps qualifier at Punchestown later the same month, his record over three miles is 243. Still unexposed, it is only 22 days since his last run but he races off 139 compared to 141 in Ireland.” Advised @ 14/1 – WON the Pertemps Final @ 6/1
Quote: “THE STORYTELLER has only raced three times over fences winning on his chasing debut at Fairyhouse (2m 5f) before finishing third behind Invitation Only at Punchestown – making a crucial mistake at the second last. Seven and a quarter lengths seventh behind Monalee in the Grade 1 Flogas NC at Leopardstown last time, he is officially rated 147. Potentially better than his mark, there are two minor concerns. Firstly, he lacks experience over fences – stablemate Diamond King was sent off 5/1 favourite for this last year off a mark of 150 and pulled up following an early mistake. Secondly, his record on left handed tracks is 4th and 7th. Gordon Elliott’s charge handles most surfaces and it is hoped either Jack Kennedy (212) or Davy Russell (3rd) takes the ride.” Advised @ 10/1 – WON the Brown Advisory Handicap Chase @ 5/1
Quote: “BLOW BY BLOW is trained by Gordon Elliott who intends to run four in this. The Grand National winning handler is keen to win the event following near misses by Toner D’Oudairies (2012) and Noble Endeavor (2015). A Grade 1 winning bumper horse for Willie Mullins (won 3 out of 4), the Robin Des Champs gelding joined Elliott before suffering an injury which sidelined him from April 2016 until November last year. Twice a winner over hurdles this term, he was successful at Navan (2m 7f) in December before being well held behind Next Destination in Grade 1 company at Naas in early January. However, he was back to form under Rachel Blackmore last time in the Grade 3 Michael Purcell Memorial NH at Thurles (Champagne Classic was third in the same race last year en route to victory here). A fourteen lengths winner from the same connections’ Gun Digger, his trainer feels he doesn’t want the ground too soft. Rated 144, he is well treated if judged on his bumper form.” Advised @ 20/1 – WON the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle @ 11/1
The horse I am most looking forward to seeing run at the Cheltenham Festival:
RICH RICCI: BENIE DES DIEUX (WON the mares’ Hurdle @ 9/2)
OWNERS ENCLOSURE: JARED SULLIVAN: WINNER: LAURINA (4/7)
Quote: LAURINA: “We think she is very good and I know both Willie (Mullins) and Ruby (Walsh) feel she is one of their best chances of the week in the Trull House Stud Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle on Thursday. An easy winner of both her starts since arriving from France, she looked an exceptional filly in the Grade 3 at Fairyhouse last time. Willie doesn’t usually talk his horses up but he has been very enthusiastic about her. I don’t think the state of the ground matters to her.” WON by 18 lengths @ 4/7
TALKING TRAINERS: GORDON ELLIOTT: WINNERS: BLOW BY BLOW (11/1), THE STORYTELLER (5/1), TIGER ROLL (7/1)
Quote: “I am planning to run BLOW BY BLOW, FLAWLESS ESCAPE, FLAXEN FLARE and SIRE DU BERLAIS in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle and it is a race I am very keen to win. I think Blow By Blow will go well provided the ground dries out.” BLOW BY BLOW WON @ 11/1
Quote: THE STORYTELLER: “His form in Graded company is very good but he lacks experience. That would be my concern but otherwise he must have a major chance.” WON @ 5/1
Quote: TIGER ROLL: “He has been to Cheltenham twice recently to school around the Cross Country course and is in very good form. Keith Donoghue will take the ride and his preparation has gone well.” WON @ 7/1
The IRISH ANGLE by Declan PHELAN
Quote: “The Elliott horse that appeals to me is BLOW BY BLOW: it is conceivable that he may top the weights, though as explained, with a slim weight range than will be insignificant: he was a top class bumper horse, winner of the 2016 Grade 1 championship bumper at Punchestown: in his bumper days he conquered Death Duty and Moon Racer. Beset by niggling injuries, he was parked up for a season. He commenced hurdling this winter and it has been a slow haul back to form: he scrambled home to win a 2m 7f maiden hurdle at Navan in December, and then faded tamely from the second last when sixth to Next Destination in a Grade 1 at Naas. He came alive for the first time this season a fortnight ago at Thurles: the race was the Grade 3 Michael Purcell Memorial: in 2017 Gigginstown/Elliott won this contest with Champagne Classic before arriving at Cheltenham and winning the Martin Pipe. It may have been the persuasive female handling of Rachel Blackmore or the blinkers or both, Blow By Blow picked up the running entering the homestraight and galloped right away: he won by fourteen lengths and it could have been twenty five and it took Rachel two furlongs too pull him up. The sheer power of his stride at the finish was a rare sight. Running as close as 22 days to the Festival is not ideal: the ground at Thurles was not too bad, dead on the good to soft side, than genuine soft and unlikely to have taken as much out of a horse as opposed to heavy ground. The handicapper in the UK has slapped a mark of 144 on Blow By Blow which on the surface looks tight: from that Thurles race, Roaring Bull was running on fumes and a weakening second when falling at the last: the handicapper has given that horse a mark of 138 for this race: not in a million years would Roaring Bull get within an asses roar of Blow By Blow on those terms, hence Blow By Blow may be favourably treated. Without delving into the 141 initial entries for this race, I would imagine that Blow By Blow is the only Grade 1 winner amongst the troop. If Gordon can book a jockey who can humour this big chestnut gelding into action, then he can produce fireworks. He handles all variety of grounds, that Grade 1 win was on good ground. Now, if Blow By Blow does not fancy the task at hand, he will be a beaten docket inside the first half mile. If he settles into a rhythm, his class and staying power may surface at the climax. As risk/reward outsiders go, at 20/1 Blow By Blow is deserving of support.” WON the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle @ 11/1
SPRING WATCH: Quote: “Harry Fry won the Goffs UK Spring Sales bumper at Newbury (24th March) last year with Bullionaire and Paul Nicholls’ former assistant is set to run the twice raced CARIBERT in the 2018 renewal. The Ballingarry gelding justified strong market support on his racecourse debut at Wincanton in November. Making all, he stayed on strongly to beat Hideaway Vic by four and a half lengths. Ten lengths runner-up behind Time To Move On (won again since) under a penalty at Exeter less than a month later, he has been freshened up since and Fry confirms the five year old in good form at home. His stable are in fine form at present (3 winners at Kempton last Monday) and Caribert should go well at the Berkshire track.” WON @ 5/2
Quote: “Switching codes, I interviewed William Haggas and David O’Meara for Ahead On The Flat last month and both trainers have leading hopes for the Lincoln Handicap at Doncaster on the same day. William feels ADDEYBB is a Pattern horse in the making and the four year old has wintered well. Ideally suited by some ease in the ground, the head of Somerville Lodge thinks a mile is his bare minimum but still expects the four year old to go well. However, I can also pass on a very positive mention for O’Meara’s LORD GLITTERS. “A horse with an incredible turn of foot, we purchased him at the Arqana Sale in France in July having watched a replay of some of his races. He showed a lot of speed and is a horse who is best covered up and delivered late. Runner-up at Ascot over seven furlongs in early October on his first run for us, he then produced a super performance to win the Balmoral Handicap over a mile and at the same track on Champions day. Beaten a neck in a Listed race at Newmarket last time, he has only raced on soft ground for us but we don’t feel it is a necessity. Bought as a replacement for Mondialiste who has retired, he is a different type of horse to him. We have high hopes for him this year over seven furlongs and a mile,” reports his trainer.” 1st & 2nd in the Lincoln Handicap
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The AINTREE GRAND MEETING 2018
4 WINNERS: WE HAVE A DREAM (Advised @ 9/4), MIGHT BITE (4/5), TERREFORT (Advised @ 7/2), SANTINI (Advised @ 9/4). Plus: SHANAHAN’S TURN (Advised @ 40/1 – 2nd @ 14/1)
Quote: “WE HAVE A DREAM is rated 145 having won 4 of his 7 races and is unbeaten since joining Nicky Henderson. The Martaline gelding didn’t manage a win in three outings in France but he hasn’t looked back since arriving at Seven Barrows. A ten lengths winner at Doncaster in Grade 2 company, he then beat Sussex Ranger by a length and a half in the Grade 1 Finale Hurdle at Chepstow over Christmas. A four and a half lengths winner at Musselburgh in February, he was forced to miss the Triumph Hurdle. A winner on good and heavy ground, he has been off for 67 days, which is an advantage, and the Simon Munir and Isaac Souede owned gelding looks set to play a leading role.” Advised @ 9/4 WON by 7 lengths
Quote: “TERREFORT is trained by Nicky Henderson who has won this with Irish Hussar (2003), Burton Port (2010) and Might Bite (2017). A winner over hurdles and fences at Clairefontaine in France when trained by Guillaume Macaire, the five year old has won two of his three races since arriving at Seven Barrows. A ten lengths winner of a novices’ handicap chase at Huntingdon off a mark of 137, he then won the Grade 1 Scilly Isles NC at Sandown by a neck from subsequent Grade 2 winner Cyrname. Seven lengths runner-up behind Shattered Love in the JLT NC at Cheltenham last time, he was conceding six pounds to Gordon Elliott’s mare, who has since finished an unlucky second in the Grade 1 Powers Gold Cup at Fairyhouse. This will be his first run beyond two miles six but I will be surprised if he doesn’t stay. Yet to race on ground quicker than soft, Banjo (1995), Star de Mohaison (2006) and Big Buck’s (2008) won this as five year olds.” Advised @ 7/2 WON the Grade 1 Mildmay Novices’ Chase @ 3/1
Quote: “SANTINI won his only English point-to-point at Didmarton by fifteen lengths last season before being snapped up for £150,000 in March last year. The Milan gelding has won two of his three starts over hurdles for Nicky Henderson and is rated 150. He beat stablemate Chef Des Obeaux by four and a half lengths at Newbury in December before reeling in subsequent Festival runner-up Black Op close home in a Grade 2 novice at Cheltenham’s Trials meeting in late January. Four and a half lengths third in the Albert Bartlett NH last time, he has yet to race on ground better than soft but gives the impression he will handle it. The six year old is an exciting prospect and it would be no surprise to see him sign off his novice hurdle career with a Grade 1 victory.” Advised @ 9/4 – WON the Grade 1 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle @ 6/4
Quote: “SHANANHAN’S TURN is well handicapped off a mark of 134 having won the Galway Plate for Henry De Bromhead off 142 in 2015 (hasn’t won since but has only had seven races). Absent due to a stress fracture from July 2016 until November last year, the ten year old has only raced twice for Colin Tizzard. A remote eighth of nine over two miles at Cheltenham in November, he had a wind operation and didn’t return to action until the Festival last month. Although beaten twenty three lengths in ninth, the Indian Danehill gelding travelled strongly for a long way and was still in contention turning for home. Dropped three pounds since, he was once rated 153 and will hopefully have Robbie Power on his back for the first time. Despite his age, he has only raced 19 times.” Advised @ 40/1 – 2nd @ 14/1 in the Topham Chase
The horse I am most looking forward to seeing run at Aintree: ANTHONY BROMLEY: WE HAVE A DREAM (WON @ 2/1)
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