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“It’s a fascinating mix of trainer interviews, horses to follow and general insight, which continues to mark the author out as one of the very best in the business.”
Andrew BALDING, Ralph BECKETT, Roger CHARLTON, Tim EASTERBY, Charlie FELLOWES, William HAGGAS, Jedd O’KEEFFE, James TATE, Roger VARIAN.
The Top 40 Prospects - last year’s included LORD NORTH (Listed & Cambridgeshire), SPANISH ARCHER (10/1), WIRETAP (8/1), plus unraced three year olds JUBILOSO (2 wins) & UAE JEWEL (2 wins).
Owner’s Enclosure – CLIPPER LOGISTICS – Racing Manager Joe Foley runs through the pick of the high-profile owner’s string for 2020, including six unraced Two Year Olds.
Ballydoyle Juveniles – 38 well bred unraced Two Year olds trained by Aidan O’Brien. Group 2 winners ARIZONA & ARMORY were included in last year’s article.
Handicap Snips – Last year’s article unearthed CARADOC (9/2, 11/10, 5/1), MIND THE CRACK (2 wins), SEA BATTLE (12/1), SWINDLER (9/4 & 100/30) & WISE COUNSEL (3/1 & 7/1)
Maidens In Waiting – 15 lightly raced three year olds who ought to be shedding their maiden tags shortly. DEREVO, DURSTON, EAGLES BY DAY, MAQSAD, RHYTHMIC INTENT & TEMPUS were featured last season.
Significant Sales – 9 horses who will be racing for new connections this summer having gone under the hammer in recent months. ARECIBO (7/1), SHIP OF THE FEN (2/1) & TAWNY PORT (7/2, 7/2 & 15/8) were highlighted twelve months ago
Stable Gossip – the latest news from Sir Michael Stoute’s powerful yard
Unraced Three Year Olds – 31 horses who didn’t see a racecourse last year but are expected to make up for lost time this season. DESERT ICON (2 wins), FIRST IN LINE (3 wins), LADY IN FRANCE (12/1) & LOGICIAN (5 from 5) were amongst those selected last term.
Appendix – sprinters, milers, middle distances, stayers & Classic contenders all covered
Index – anextensive index covering over 580 horses
How To Order
Price: £10.99 including postage (£15.99 overseas)
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Mark Howard Publications Ltd. 69 Fairgarth Drive, Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth, Lancashire. LA6 2FB.
Available from specialist horse racing shops:
RACEFORM (via www.racingpost.com/shop)
ISBN: 978-0-9929224-9-8
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:
“Thanks Mark top information again, I had a good start to the week and a great finish with Cleonte.” K.R.
“Well done Mark, been an excellent week for those you earmarked.” S.H.
“Many thanks mark lad £20 ew double Crystal Ocean + Southern Rock paid nearly £350 very grateful.” A.C.
“Just to say well done and thank you for the Ascot winners and, in particular, Southern Rock, which has just won at Hamilton, despite looking beaten a furlong out. As always, top class advice and information and as always, much appreciated.” W.S.
“NICE ONE MARK. 5 WINNING BETS FROM 5 FIRST DAY, CAN’T BE BAD, GOOD FINANCIAL START, THANKS AGAIN.” J.S.
“Cracking day today! Well done with the winners and Circus Maximus you gave it a cracking write up and the rain did come for it.” S.T.
“Just wanted to thank you for a great Ebor Update and pleased to say I backed all the winners you tipped up. Just for good measure, even though not tipped, your summary of Mustajeer convinced me to back him, along with Alligator Alley and Que Amoro in a winning treble. Once again Mark, thanks for a highly detailed and insightful update....and I'm pleased you email to Australia!” S.W.
“Great week, extremely knowledgeable, thank you again.” D.R.
“Great work for the Ebor Update Mark. Well done.” B.M.
“Thanks for a superb York Update 2019, remarkable insight, analysis and tipping selections.” S.L.
“Just to say thanks for highlighting Lampang in your Update. I thought the race was gone after he fell out of the stalls, but his finishing kick in the final two furlongs was seriously impressive. As always, quality information which is very much appreciated.” W.S.
“Been keeping an eye out for Lampang since your Royal Ascot Update. Again with your Ebor meeting Update. Today he showed the horse Tim Easterby knew he was. Your info is unbelievable.” B.R.
“Thanks for the info on Higher Kingdom, following on from Lampang this highlights just why your services are always worth their weight in gold.” A.A.
“Congratulations on Higher Kingdom, tip-top information.” A.M.
“Well done with King Leonidas, excellent information.” A.M.
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6 WINNERS: ARIZONA (Advised @ 5/2 WON @ 15/8), BLUE POINT (Advised @ 3/1 WON @ 5/2), CRYSTAL OCEAN (Advised @ 4/1 WON @ 3/1), JAPAN (Advised @ 9/4 WON @ 6/4), CAPE BYRON (Advised @ 14/1 WON @ 7/2), CLEONTE (7/2)
Plus: ONE MASTER (Advised @ 25/1 – 2nd), DREAM OF DREAMS (Advised @ 14/1 – 2nd)
Quote: “ARIZONA is featured on page 106 of AOTF and the son of No Nay Never, who cost €260,000, appears to be Ballydoyle’s leading hope as Aidan O’Brien attempts to win it for a record breaking ninth time. Beaten three lengths by Sunday Sovereign (won again since and Norfolk Stakes bound) at the Curragh (6f : Yielding) in May, he kept on in the closing stages. Returning to the same C&D less than three weeks later on much quicker ground (Good/Firm), Ryan Moore’s mount dispatched eight rivals by upwards of eight lengths with a most impressive performance. He looks a very smart colt and the quicker the ground the better. He is one of four runners for Ballydoyle and the choice of Ryan Moore.” Advised @ 5/2) WON the Coventry Stakes @ 15/8
Quote: “BLUE POINT was third in the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup over six furlongs at this meeting in 2017 before producing a terrific display to win this event twelve months ago. Charlie Appleby’s mount pulled away to win by nearly two lengths. Seventh in the July Cup and third in the Nunthorpe, the five year old looked better than ever in Dubai during the winter winning all three of his races at Meydan. A five lengths winner of a Group 2 over the minimum trip, he then won a Group 3 over six furlongs before taking the Group 1 Al Quoz Sprint by a length and three quarters from Belvoir Boy. Although he handles slow ground, a faster surface is ideal and a stiff five furlongs suits him very well. His record at the track is 1311 and his form figures at Group 1 level are 233491731. James Doyle (24) will partner the son of Shamardal for the first time since September 2017.” Advised @ 3/1 WON the King’s Stand Stakes @ 5/2
Quote: “CRYSTAL OCEAN was a bloodless winner of the Hardwicke Stakes twelve months ago scoring by two and a half lengths. Sir Michael Stoute’s five year old went on to finish a neck second behind stablemate Poet’s Word in the King George and runner-up behind Cracksman in the Champions Stakes over C&D in October. The son of Sea The Stars has looked as good, if not, better than ever this season winning the Gordon Richards Stakes at Sandown and Aston Park Stakes at Newbury for a second time. A two and a quarter lengths winner of the former, he followed up by two lengths from the ill-fated Laraaib in the latter. The drop back to ten furlongs may not be ideal but he looks sharper this season. His record over the trip is 13121 and his course form reads 3122. Runner-up in three starts in Group 1 company, I will be surprised if he doesn’t win at the highest level this year. Frankie Dettori rides him for the first time. The head of Freemason Lodge has won this three times (Hard Fought (1981), Stagecraft (1991) & Poet’s Word (2018)).” Advised @ 4/1 WON the Prince of Wales’s Stakes @ 3/1
Quote: “JAPAN was bought for 1,300,000gns as a yearling and he is a son of Galileo and a full brother to Oaks runner-up Secret Gesture and former Royal Ascot winner Sir Isaac Newton. A short head winner of the Group 2 Beresford Stakes at Naas last year, he was reportedly in need of the run when finishing fourth in the Group 2 Dante Stakes at York. Beaten nearly six lengths, he sharpened up for the outing because he was only beaten half a length in the Epsom Derby finishing third. A reproduction of that effort will see him go very close.” Advised @ 9/4 WON the King Edward VII Stakes @ 6/4
Quote: “CAPE BYRON is related to middle distance performers, namely Ajman Princess and Naqshabban, but he is set to tackle six furlongs for the first time here. The five year old won the Victoria Cup over seven furlongs last month by a neck from Kynren off a mark of 103. His record over seven furlongs is 212271 and his course form is 10271. The Shamardal gelding possesses a high cruising speed and looks well worth a try over this shorter distance. A horse with a touch of class, Roger Varian’s team have been in tremendous form and he is an intriguing runner. Best Price: 14/1 (Bet365).” Advised @ 14/1 WON the Wokingham Stakes @ 7/2
Quote: “CLEONTE has only won 3 of his 22 career starts but the six year old is a useful stayer with an official mark of 105. Bought out of Andre Fabre’s yard at the end of 2016, he benefited from being gelded at the end of the 2017 season. A three parts of a length winner of the Shergar Cup Stayers at Ascot (2m : Good) in August, he was then a length and a half third in the Cesarewitch off a mark of 95. Four lengths third to Dee Ex Bee in the Group 3 Sagaro Stakes in May (conceded a pound), he got bogged down in testing conditions in the Chester Cup last time finishing sixth. Twelfth and ninth in the Ascot Stakes in the past, his overall course record is 04913. Owned by King Power Racing, he will be ridden by Silvestre De Sousa (36) and Andrew Balding won this in 2013 with Chiberta King.” WON the Queen Alexandra Stakes @ 7/2
WINNERS: AUDARYA (1/2 & 100/30), FAYLAQ (3 wins), HIGHER KINGDOM (8/11), LAMPANG (7/2 & 10/11), NAZEEF (3 out of 3), NEVER IN PARIS (6/1), PROMISSORY (1/3), SINCERITY (11/4), SOUTHERN ROCK (2/1, 3/1, 5/6), WANNIE MAE (7/2)
Quote: FAYLAQ: “The head of Somerville Lodge also told me that he expected the impeccably bred Faylaq to improve once tackling middle distance handicaps as a three year old (see page 73 of AOTF). A son of Dubawi out of the King George and Arc winner Danedream, he cost 1,500,000gns as a yearling. Sixth and fifth in a couple of one mile novice stakes at Newmarket last October, he stepped up to ten furlongs at Chester’s May meeting on his return to action and acquitted himself well in fourth. Beaten nearly six lengths behind Ralph Beckett’s Future Investment (won again since and rated 88), he flashed his tail a couple of times late on, which is a concern. However, he looks well treated off 73 and tackles a mile and a half for the first time on his handicap debut at Ripon on Thursday (3.20). It will be disappointing if he doesn’t go close.” WON at Ripon by four and a half lengths off a mark of 73. He won twice more and is now officially rated 107.
Quote: HIGHER KINGDOM: “Moving on to the juvenile scene, Archie Watson has sent out 21 two year old winners already this term and William Haggas’ former assistant is believed to have a smart sort in the unraced Higher Kingdom. A colt by Kingman who is owned by Clipper Logistics, he is a half-brother to Clive Cox’s Wise Counsel and Group 1 runner-up Noozhoh Canarias. That pair prefer softer ground but it remains to be seen whether their younger sibling is similar. Entered in the Redcar Two Year Old Trophy in the Autumn, he is one to watch out for on his racecourse bow.” WON by 4 lengths at Kempton (9/10/19) on his racecourse debut @ 8/11.
Quote: LAMPANG: “Finally, those clients who purchased the Aintree Grand National Update will recall I mentioned an unraced two year old trained by Tim Easterby called Lampang. The King Power Racing owned colt was due to make his debut at Leicester on the first day of the National meeting in April but incurred a setback and still hasn’t been seen in public. A son of Dandy Man, he was bought for £115,000 and I asked his trainer about him at York’s Dante meeting. He has reportedly suffered with Curb, which is an injury to the soft tissue behind the hock. Tim was hoping he would be a Royal Ascot horse and, while the setback is frustrating, he still believes he will develop into a very good horse.” WON his first two starts @ 7/2 & 10/11
Quote: LOGICIAN: “Another well bred three year old owned by Khalid Abdulla, the son of Frankel made a striking impression when winning on his debut at Newbury in May. Sent off 3/1 favourite, he was ridden by Kieran O’Neill and beat eighteen rivals by upwards of two lengths in a ten furlongs maiden. A full-brother to the useful Collide, he overcame a slow start before making good headway with quarter of a mile to travel. Leading with a furlong to run, he stayed on powerfully to beat High Commissioner decisively. John Gosden’s colt will presumably contest a novice event under a penalty before his sights are raised. He promises to be even better over a mile and a half having looked strong at the finish last month. I will be surprised if he isn’t competing in Pattern races by the end of the season.” WON his next 4 starts, including Group 2 Great Voltigeur Stakes & Group 1 St Leger
Quote: NEVER IN PARIS: “Owners Ontoawinner and trainer Karl Burke introduced a promising sort at York on Friday with debutant Asmund going down by half a length in the five furlongs novice event. The same combination are responsible for Never In Paris who is set to make her debut shortly. Bought privately for £32,500, she is a daughter of No Nay Never and is held in high regard at Spigot Lodge. The stable’s juveniles are going well with Classy Moon, Lord of The Lodge and Rayong all winning first time out in recent weeks.” WON @ 6/1 by two and a quarter lengths on her debut at Nottingham (6/7/19)
Quote: SOUTHERN ROCK: “As discussed, with Ascot switching to Sky Sports Racing, I am heading to Hamilton on Wednesday (19th June) for Racing TV. The feature event is the Bothwell Castle Handicap Stakes (61-80) over an extended mile at 4.05 and it is reportedly the target for the David O’Meara trained Southern Rock. The son of New Approach raced twice for Andre Fabre in France finishing third at Longchamp (1m) and fifth at Maisons-Laffitte (6f). Subsequently gelded, he was bought for £30,000 at the Goffs UK January on behalf of Middleham Park Racing and joined the Upper Helmsley team. Making his debut for his new connections in a mile maiden at the same Scottish track in early May, he upset the 1/12 favourite Al Hadeer who had finished runner-up in the Wood Ditton Stakes behind UAE Jewel. Making all, he stayed on strongly to beat William Haggas’ runner by four and a half lengths. Granted an opening mark of 78, he doesn’t look badly treated for his handicap debut this week.” WON @ 2/1 at Hamilton and then won twice more @ 3/1 & 5/6.
Quote: WANNIE MAE: “William Haggas was complimentary regarding Wannie Mae on page 77 of Ahead On The Flat. A daughter of Australia from a stoutly bred German family, she is a half-sister to the useful Flat/jumps performer Landofhopeandglory and was bought for €150,000. Seventh on her debut at Newbury last season behind subsequent Group 3 Musidora Stakes winner Nausha, she was tailed off on fast ground on her return to action at Salisbury last month. However, conditions were very different at Haydock last time (heavy) and she shaped well finishing fourth behind stablemate Monica Sheriff in a mile and a half novice stakes. Soft ground appears to be the key to her and, granted such conditions, she is handicapped to win races off a mark of 66. She gives the impression she will stay a mile and six, if necessary (entered in a 0-85 handicap (1m 4f) at Goodwood on Friday evening (7.30)).” WON @ 7/2 at Goodwood.
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8 WINNERS: VALDERMORO (Advised 7/1 WON @ 9/2), LOGICIAN (Advised @ 11/8 WON @ 10/11), JAPAN (Advised @ 11/2 WON @ 5/1), MUMS TIPPLE (Advised @ 5/1 WON @ 7/2), THREAT (Advised @ 5/2 WON @ 11/10), HAMISH (Advised @ 16/1 WON @ 7/1), ALLIGATOR ALLEY (11/8), QUE AMORO (9/1)
Quote: “VALDERMORO was bought at the breeze-ups for 50,000gns and looks a smart sort for Richard Fahey. Entered in the Champagne, Royal Lodge and Dewhurst Stakes, he was a length and three quarters third behind Mystery Power (won a Group 2 since and rated 112) at Haydock (7f) in June on his debut (runner-up has also won since and is rated 91). The Declaration of War colt then ran out an impressive three and a quarter lengths winner at Doncaster (7f) next time. The runner-up Global Storm filled the same position next time, too. This has been his target since.” Advised @ 7/1 WON the Acomb Stakes @ 9/2
Quote: “LOGICIAN (Unraced Three Year Olds) is featured on page 121 of Ahead On The Flat and John Gosden’s grey is unbeaten in three career starts. Rated 101, the son of Frankel is a full-brother to the high-class middle distance handicapper Collide and he won first time out over ten furlongs at Newbury in May by two lengths. A length and three quarters scorer under a penalty at Newmarket next time, he then stepped up to a mile and a half for the first time at Newbury (Good/Firm). Making his handicap debut off a mark of 90, he galloped his four rivals into submission winning by four and a half lengths. Entered in the St Leger, this is his biggest test to date by some margin but he is progressive and has earned a crack at such a prize. The champion trainer has won this four times (Lucarno (2007), Centennial (2008), Thought Worthy (2012) & Cracksman (2017)).” Advised @ 11/8 WON the Great Voltigeur Stakes @ 10/11
Quote: “JAPAN tackles ten furlongs for the first time since finishing fourth in the Group 2 Dante Stakes over C&D in May. Aidan O’Brien’s colt wasn’t at his best that day though and has progressed markedly since. Half a length third in the Epsom Derby behind Anthony Van Dyck, he then streaked clear to beat Bangkok by four and a half lengths in the Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes at the Royal meeting. The son of Galileo then claimed his first Group 1 win in the Grand Prix de Paris at Longchamp when beating Slalom by half a length – the fourth Roman Candle was beaten a head in Group 2 company last week. Bought for 1,300,000gns, he is a full brother to former stablemate Sir Isaac Newton who was arguably at his best over ten furlongs. Therefore I wouldn’t be unduly concerned about the drop back in distance. The Ballydoyle team have won this a handful of times already.” Advised @ 11/2 WON the Juddmonte International Stakes @ 5/1
Quote: “MUMS TIPPLE runs here in preference to the Group 3 Acomb Stakes on the opening day and the Footstepsinthesand colt didn’t surprise connections when winning on his debut at Ascot (6f) last month. The highly regarded Man of Promise finished third and the fifth (Surf Dancer) hacked up at Leicester next time. Bought for 45,000gns, he is trained by Richard Hannon who has won this with Stormy Clouds (2016) and Tangled (2017). Ryan Moore is set to ride as he attempts to concede weight all round. He holds entries in the Champagne, Mill Reef, Middle Park and Dewhurst Stakes later in the year.” Advised @ 5/1 WON the sales race by 11 lengths @ 7/2
Quote: “THREAT bids to provide Richard Hannon jnr with his first win in a race his father won four times. A colt by Footstepsinthesand, he was an impressive two and a quarter lengths winner on his initial outing at Newmarket’s Guineas meeting over five furlongs. Half a length runner-up in the Coventry Stakes behind Arizona next time, he filled the same position in the Group 2 Richmond Stakes at Goodwood this month. Beaten three parts of a length by Golden Horde (third in the Group 1 Prix Morny since), he has only raced on good ground. Rated 111, this flatter track may suit him better.” Advised @ 5/2 WON the Gimcrack Stakes @ 11/10
Quote: “HAMISH is bred to stay well, being out of Tweed (won 1m 4f) and therefore related to former stablemates Harris Tweed (three times winner over 1m 6f) and Vow. Unraced as a two year old, he was beaten a length on his debut over a mile at Thirsk behind Munhamek (runner-up in the Silver Bowl and rated 89). Stepping up to ten furlongs at Windsor (Good/Soft) in June, he scored easily by seven lengths. William Haggas’ son of Motivator was then forced to carry a seven pounds penalty at Newbury last month finishing a length and a half third. Yet to race beyond ten furlongs, he should relish this longer distance and could prove to be on a good mark (93) for his handicap bow.” Advised @ 16/1 WON the Melrose Stakes @ 7/1
Quote: “ALLIGATOR ART has improved since dropping back to the minimum trip and arrives here with major claims. A son of Kingman who cost 100,000gns as a yearling, Joseph O’Brien’s colt was fourth and third on his first two runs at the Curragh (both over six furlongs). He then won by a handful of lengths over five furlongs at Navan breaking smartly and making all. Stepped up in class, he was deemed an unlucky second in the Group 3 Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood. Beaten a length by the Lowther Stakes bound Liberty Beach, Donnacha O’Brien’s mount met trouble in running before storming home. There has been no Irish trained winner of this since at least 1988.” WON the Roses Stakes @ 11/8
Quote: “The Michael Dods trained pair Holmeswood and Intense Romance dead-heated for first place in this race two years ago and the Darlington trainer may have the answer to the 2019 renewal. QUE AMORO was a mighty impressive seven lengths winner over five and a half furlongs at the track last month making all. I spoke to her rider Paul Mulrennan afterwards and he attributed the performance down to the change of tactics. They had previously been holding her up. A daughter of Es Que Love, she is blessed with lightning early speed and her course record is 21. Despite a ten pounds rise to a mark of 90, she may take some pegging back.” WON @ 9/1
THE JUVENILE SCENE: WINNERS: ANASTARSIA (3/1), CAPE PALACE (4/11), FANTASY BELIEVER (4/1), HIGHER KINGDOM (8/11), IMPATIENT (7/1), LOUISIANA (4/5), PALACE PIER (11/8, 1/8), PEACEFUL (8/11), QUEEN DAENERYS (5/4), ROYAL CRUSADE (5/6)
Quote: “Champion trainer John Gosden has produced 8 two year old winners this year and it won’t be long before CAPE PALACE makes his debut. Owned by Godolphin, he is by Golden Horn out of a dual Listed winner in Italy and cost 300,000gns as a foal. He is entered in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes and is considered useful. Sheikh Mohammed’s set up also own PALACE PIER, a son of Kingman who cost 600,000gns. He, too, is entered in the Dewhurst Stakes at HQ in October.” CAPE PALACE & PALACE PIER both won on their debuts.
Quote: “Stablemate ROYAL CRUSADE is also held in high regard and is entered in the Champagne, Middle Park and Dewhurst Stakes this Autumn. A son of Shamardal, he is out of Zibelina who was a Listed and Group 3 winner for Godolphin. He is very much one to watch out for on his debut.” WON on his debut at Newmarket (23/8/19) @ 5/6
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CAMBRIDGESHIRE: LORD NORTH (Advised @ 10/1 WON @ 9/2)
Quote: “LORD NORTH (Top 40) is another unexposed three year old trained by John Gosden who runs off a mark of 98 and is four pounds ‘well in’ compared to the future. A winning juvenile at Redcar last year, the son of Dubawi was a facile winner on his return to action at Newcastle (two runner race) in the spring. Stepped up in class, he was last of eight in the Listed Heron Stakes at Sandown next time. Gelded and absent for 106 days, he made an encouraging return to action when finishing half a length runner-up behind the in-form Bless Him at Ascot this month. Making his handicap debut, he led over a furlong out but couldn’t withstand the late thrust of David Simcock’s Yarmouth winner. Yet to race beyond a mile, he is bred to appreciate this longer trip being a half-brother to a ten furlongs winner. The champion trainer bids to win the race for a fifth time following the victories of (Halling (3yo) (1994), Pipedreamer (3yo) (2007), Tazeez (2008) and Wissahickon (3yo) (2018)). Frankie Dettori rides him for the first time and he is drawn in stall 29. Best Price: 10/1 (BetVictor, Coral, Ladbrokes, William Hill).” Advised @ 10/1 WON the Cambridgeshire @ 9/2
MIDDLE PARK STAKES: EARTHLIGHT (11/4)
Quote: “EARTHLIGHT represents Andre Fabre who has won this twice (Lycius (1990) & Zieten (1992)) and the son of Shamardal is unbeaten in four starts. Having been successful at Maisons-Laffitte (5.5f) and Deauville (6f), he returned to the same track in July to win a Group 3 contest by four lengths from Godolphin’s Well of Wisdom (runner-up in another Group 3 since and rated 104). He then made it four out of four in the Group 1 Prix Morny at Deauville when beating Mark Johnston’s top-class filly Raffle Prize by a neck – the Richmond Stakes winner Golden Horde was third, the Coventry Stakes winner Arizona was fourth, and Norfolk Stakes and subsequent Flying Childers Stakes winner A’Ali was fifth. A winner on good and heavy ground, he is reportedly being aimed at next year’s 2000 Guineas and it will take a very smart horse to beat him.” WON @ 11/4
WINNERS: HIGHER KINGDOM (8/11), VICTOR LUDORUM (9/5)
Quote: “Finally, I received an email from Joe Foley (Clipper Logistics) last weekend informing me that HIGHER KINGDOM will be making his debut shortly. Joe told me about the son of Kingman at the Cheltenham Festival and he is held in high regard by Archie Watson. Don’t miss him either on his debut.” WON by four lengths on his debut at Kempton (9/10/19)
Quote: “Champion trainer John Gosden has sent out 19 juvenile winners in 2019 and the unraced KING LEONIDAS can add to that tally before the end of the year, if his homework is anything to go by. Owned by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, he is a son of Kingman who cost 750,000gns as a yearling. Entered in the Group 1 Futurity Trophy at Doncaster next month, he is one to watch out for on his racecourse debut.” WON on his debut at Newmarket (23/10/19) @ 13/8
Quote: “The unbeaten VICTOR LUDORUM has looked a potentially top-class colt in the making in his two starts to date. Owned by Godolphin and trained by Andre Fabre, he is a son of Shamardal and won by three and a half lengths on his debut over C&D in early September (stablemate Waldgeist won the same race in 2016). Reappearing thirteen days later at Chantilly, he challenged with two furlongs to run before bounding clear to win by the same margin. Both runs have been on good ground and he looks ready for this rise in class. The multiple champion trainer has won this Group 1 prize on four occasions and it will take a smart colt to beat him.” WON the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp @ 9/5
including postage (except £5 extra for overseas)
Foreword by Nick LUCK, 7 times Broadcaster of The Year
“A funny thing happened recently. I was working with Mark Howard on Racing TV and it wasn’t raining. Far from it, in fact: the sun beat down on the Knavesmire on the fourth and final day of the Ebor Festival in August. During a brief interlude between races, our producer decided that a quiz would be the order of the day to see which member of the team could recall some of the events of the mesmerising few days that had gone before.
As widely predicted, Mark turned away the combined brain power of Hislop, Hannity and Dixon with consummate ease. I had sensibly opted for the role of question master, knowing that I had scant chance of bettering the analyst whose grip on the finer detail of the game has always been vice-like.
As predictable as his mini victory that afternoon was Mark’s annual gentle chivvying to deliver the Foreword to One Jump Ahead, a task that is always a pleasure, but which seems so out of kilter when it’s cracking the flags and you’re busy going through tomorrow evening’s card at Salisbury. Suddenly, those August shop-window Christmas displays seem to make sense.
In truth, the hiatus between what you might call the traditional winter jumps season is contracting all the while. Sparked up by the extensive reporting of the trainers’ Open Days, you start beating the drum for the return of your favourites well before the leaves have started to fall. And that fervour is only intensified by racing’s vibrant social media community, already fully engaged in whether Altior or Cyrname will emerge victorious if and when they ever should meet.
What the Twitter jousting and peacocking won’t give you, however, is the objectivity and depth of knowledge that you are about to find between the covers of this book. I’ve said it before, but Mark is just as much about predicting the sport’s power bases as he is reflecting them. His inclusion of Jonjo O’Neill in the Talking Trainers section, for example, is founded on the realisation (long before it was made public) that Jonjo’s yard is restocked with some serious potential talent from the sales and a raft of fresh owners.
It is equally good to see the ever consistent Warren Greatrex merit a full stable tour this time: his handling of La Bague Au Roi last season was a magnificent training feat. Other personal highlights from the 18/19 season included the finishes of the RSA Chase and the Liverpool Hurdle, won respectively by Topofthegame and If the Cap Fits, both of whom unsurprisingly featured among Mark’s Top 40 Prospects twelve months ago.
The horses mentioned, plus Tiger Roll’s barnstorming second National and that fabulous and frenetic ‘golden hour’ at Cheltenham featuring Bryony Frost and Paisley Park, only serve to make you wish away these early autumn days that bit quicker.
I hope you enjoy One Jump Ahead one more time. This is the goldmine for the price of a goldfish: the book that proves that - year in, year out - Mark gets more of the answers right than most of us.”
Owners’ Enclosure – Exclusive interviews with Rich RICCI & Jared SULLIVAN
Rich Ricci (28 horses covered) & Jared Sullivan (23) horses covered, in training with Nicky Henderson, Willie Mullins, Olly Murphy & Paul Nicholls
Rich RICCI & racing manager Joe CHAMBERS, plus Jared SULLIVAN nominate their horse to follow for 2019/2020
Stable Interviews:
Kim BAILEY (44 horses featured), Harry FRY (44), Warren GREATREX (40), Philip HOBBS (66), Alan KING (59), Tom LACEY (33), Donald McCAIN (46), Olly MURPHY (47), Paul NICHOLLS (106), Jonjo O’NEILL (52), David PIPE (37) & Nicky RICHARDS (46).
Quotes from One Jump Ahead:
“We were going to run him in the spring because his homework was fantastic but he started coughing so we left him off. He is an exciting prospect for novice hurdles.” PHILIP HOBBS
“I adore him and I think he is very good.” TOM LACEY
“He is a lovely unraced horse. Big and backward last season, he has shown a lot of raw ability at home and we will run him in a bumper around Christmas time. I think he is a very nice horse.” OLLY MURPHY
“A lovely big horse who has arrived from France having been bought by Andy Stewart. He will go novice hurdling and I like him a lot.” PAUL NICHOLLS
“He will come into his own over fences and I would like to think he is on a fair mark.”
DAVID PIPE
“Unraced, she is a classy looking filly by Milan who we bought in Ireland in August last year. She is a grand filly and one for a mares’ bumper in the Autumn.”
NICKY RICHARDS
One Jump Ahead (198 pages) also features the following sections:
The Top 40 Prospects – Last year’s Top 40 Prospects produced 36 winners at a strike-rate of 31% and produced a PROFIT of £262.30 (£10 level stake). They included 5 Grade 1 winners, namely COMMANDER OF FLEET (13/2), ENVOI ALLEN (2/1), IF THE CAP FITS (7/1), KALASHNIKOV (4/1) & TOPOFTHEGAME (4/1)
Bromley’s Best Buys – Leading Bloodstock Agent ANTHONY BROMLEY highlights 28 new recruits from France and Ireland. 22 winners at a strike-rate of 20% in last year’s article, Anthony’s horse to follow was THE GLANCING QUEEN (16/1 & 5/1).
Changing Codes – 11 Flat horses who are set to go hurdling for the first time.
English Pointers – my Racing TV colleague JONATHAN NEESOM picks 17 horses who raced between the flags in the UK last season and caught his eye. In the last couple of years, Jonathan has highlighted the likes of CAPTAIN CATTISTOCK, INTERCONNECTED, KING ROLAND and SANTINI.
French Revolution - 31 horses who have being plying their trade in France but have been bought to race in the UK and Ireland this winter. Last year’s article unearthed Cheltenham Festival winners A PLUS TARD and KLASSICAL DREAM, plus Listed/Graded winners ALLAHO, ELFILE, ELIMAY and FRENCH MADE. For the first time, former French Champion jockey JAMES REVELEY has added his comments to the majority of those featured.
Handicap Snips – New section – 18 horses who look ahead of the assessor.
Irish Pointers - expert DECLAN PHELAN highlights 60 pointers to follow from across the Irish Sea who will race under Rules this winter. Last year’s feature yielded 40 winners at an impressive strike-rate of 29% showing a PROFIT of £462.90 (£10 stake) and they included Grade 1 winners HONEYSUCKLE (4 out of 4) & MINELLA INDO (50/1 & 5/1).
Stable Gossip - news from BRIAN ELLISON, DAN SKELTON & NIGEL TWISTON-DAVIES.
Appendix – a full and comprehensive analysis of the 2 mile chasers, 2m 4f chasers, staying chasers & 2 mile hurdlers
Index – 832 horses included
How To Order
Price: £10.99 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:
I shall be producing 5 One Jump Ahead Updates throughout the 2019/20 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 2018/2019 Updates:
What The Clients Said:
“Cheers Mark re info on Sopat from February Update. Had 9/1 this morning.” N.P.
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“Thanks Mark for that nice start for the best racing week of the year keep it up thanks again.” R.B.
“I got 11/4 with William Hill at 9.00am and it never really looked in doubt, thanks Mark.” A.R.
“Good Evening Mark, what valuable information in your great book from Bloodstock Supremo Mr Bromley! Glowing summary and also his horse to follow, golden information - especially at 16’s sp - many thanks!” S.B.
“Great results today, managed to include Jerrysback and Lake View Lad in amongst a small stakes Yankee but with a very good return! Fantastic day, appreciate the advice!!” R.J.
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WINNERS: ROCK THE KASBAH (Advised @ 10/1), FIRST ASSIGNMENT (Advised @ 11/4 – WON @ 6/4), SCEAU ROYAL (Advised @ 13/8)
Quote: “ROCK THE KASBAH could only finish sixth in the same handicap chase at Chepstow last month which he had won twelve months earlier (five pounds higher now). A three times winner over fences, Philip Hobbs’ gelding will be suited by this longer trip having finished sixth and runner-up in the last two renewals of the Bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown. Rated 147, he stays well and has been placed at Cheltenham in the past. His stable have won this with Gold Cap (1994) and Sausalito Sunrise (2015). The ground ought to suit and his trainer is in very good form (11 winners in the last 14 days). Best Price: 10/1 (Bet365, BetVictor, Boylesports, William Hill).” Advised @ 10/1, WON @ 9/1.
Quote: “FIRST ASSIGNMENT was trained to win his only Irish point by Cormac Doyle and he beat Red River (rated 145 over hurdles for Kim Bailey) by a length and a half. Bought for £40,000, he has won two of his five races over hurdles for Ian Williams and still looks attractively handicapped off a mark of 130. The Vinnie Roe gelding won at Huntingdon (2m 4f) before finishing third in the EBF Final at Sandown in March. Returning to action at Cheltenham last month, he landed a gamble when scoring by a short head (2m 5f) off a mark of 125. Yet to race beyond two miles five, Tom Scudamore (2131) said afterwards: “He’s more about stamina.” He is therefore expected to improve over this longer distance and can defy a five pounds rise in the weights.” Advised @ 11/4, WON by 9 lengths @ 6/4.
Quote: “PALMERS HILL has other entries at the meeting but would be of definite interest if running here. A winning pointer for Denis Murphy who was subsequently bought by J.P.McManus for £310,000, the Gold Well gelding looked a smart prospect when winning by a length and a half on his Rules debut at Uttoxeter (2m) in October last year. Disappointing in his subsequent two outings at Ascot (2m 5f) and Sandown (handicap debut), he has had a long break since (287 days). First time out could be the time to catch him and, if in the same form as he was at Uttoxeter over a year ago, Jonjo O’Neill’s lightly raced five year old could be well in off a mark of 124.” WON @ 7/1
FRENCH REVOLUTION – Part II: WINNERS: EXTRA MAG (11/10), FUSIL RAFFLES (4/1, 13/8), STYLE DE VOLE (2/5)
Quote: FUSIL RAFFLES: “Another three year old by Saint Des Saints who has joined the champion trainer, he was purchased on behalf of Simon Munir and Isaac Souede having raced twice over hurdles for Guillaume Macaire. A four and a half lengths winner on his debut at Senonnes (2m 2f : Soft) in July, he was then beaten a neck a fortnight later at Les Sables (2m 1f : Good). The third has won since. He is another for juvenile hurdles.” WON the Grade 2 Adonis Hurdle at Kempton (23/2/19) @ 4/1 & the Grade 1 juvenile Hurdle at Punchestown (4/5/19) @ 13/8.
Plus: BEAKSTOWN (5/4 & 6/1), CHRISTOPHER WOOD (10/11, 6/5), GLITTERING LOVE (4 out of 4: 9/5, 6/5, 2/1, 11/4) (PISTOL WHIPPED (13/8), PRAECEPS (5/2, 8/11)
Quote: “My contact at the Dan Skelton keeps telling me BEAKSTOWN is a proper horse. Featured on page 132 of One Jump Ahead as one of Declan Phelan’s Irish Pointers, the Stowaway gelding held an entry in Graded company at Cheltenham on Friday but he bypasses that engagement. He does, however, hold entries at Uttoxeter (12.50) and Wetherby (12.30) on Saturday, plus another at Hereford on Monday (2.45) and Chepstow on Wednesday (1.40). Runner-up in a Kempton bumper last February, I was sent a video of him schooling on Thursday morning and he worked beautifully. He is one to look forward to.” WON @ 5/4 & 6/1 (Grade 2 Leamington NH at Warwick (12/1/19))
Quote: “Nicky Richards has his team in good order at present with four winners this month already. The lightly raced GLITTERING LOVE could prove a well handicapped six year old once stepped up to three miles for the first time under Rules. Owned by Paul and Clare Rooney, the Winged Love gelding is a half-brother to nine times winner Riptide and has shown little in five runs under Rules (yet to race beyond two and a half miles). Rated 92 over hurdles as a result, he fared much better in point-to-points for Nicky’s daughter Joey Richards winning four out of five. Successful at Friars Haugh (twice), Corbridge and Overton (all over three miles) between January and March this year, he was well held in a novices’ handicap hurdle at Sedgefield in April over an inadequate two and a half miles. He could be a different proposition over three miles this winter, especially if sent novice handicap chasing.” WON 4 out of 4 – SP’s of 9/5, 6/5, 2/1 & 11/4 – with his official rating rising from 92 to 125.
TALKING TRAINERS: KEITH DALGLEISH: WINNERS: ALRIGHT SUNSHINE (30/100, 8/11), BEAST OF BELSTANE (11/4), BORN FOR WAR (11/4), CHICA BUENA (4/1), GLORIOUS LADY (13/2), I’M TO BLAME (5/6, 2/5), MIXBOY (100/30), ONE NIGHT IN MILAN (100/30), SPORTING PRESS (11/1, 11/4).
Quote: BORN FOR WAR: “Had his first run for us at Musselburgh last week finishing fourth over hurdles. I thought he looked a bit ring rusty and I am inclined to stick some headgear on him next time. Still a maiden, we might try him over fences sooner rather than later.” WON by 13 lengths at Musselburgh (26/11/18) over fences and wearing a visor for the first time @ 11/4
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CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2018
WINNERS: BIRCHDALE (2/1), HUMBLE HERO (5/2), LADY BUTTONS (Evens, Evens), SIR EREC (11/8, 13/8), TEDHAM (4/1)
Quote: “McManus is also the new owner of the 109 rated Flat racer SIR EREC. A son of Camelot and from the family of Queens Vase winner Mahler, he only raced a handful of times on the level improving with each start. A half length winner of a ten furlongs maiden at the Curragh in late August, he then beat The King by four lengths in a Listed contest at Limerick (1m 4f : Heavy) in October. Joseph O’Brien’s charge produced a career best on his most recent start when two and a half lengths third behind Stradivarius and Thomas Hobson in the Group 2 Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot (2m : Soft) a week later. Significantly, he holds an entry in the three year old maiden hurdle at Leopardstown on Thursday (12.10) in which subsequent Triumph Hurdle winner Ivanovich Gorbatov made a winning start to his jumping career. If he shows an aptitude for his vocation, he possesses the talent to be a top-class hurdler and the 20/1 (Bet365, Skybet & William Hill) for Festival glory next March is tempting.” WON twice at Leopardstown, including the Grade 1 Spring Juvenile Hurdle (3/2/19) @ 13/8
Quote: “Despite the fact TEDHAM has failed to win any of his three races over hurdles this Autumn/Winter, the Jonjo O’Neill trained could prove a well handicapped novice off an opening mark of 125. A well bred four year old by Shirocco out of Donald McCain’s dual Listed winner Alegralil, he shaped with plenty of promise in his bumper at Warwick last spring finishing third behind Umndeni. Switched to hurdling this season, he finished fourth behind Al Dancer (won twice since and now rated 141) at Carlisle and then third to The Big Bite at Chepstow. On both occasions, he impressed with the way he travelled during his races before finding two potentially top notch novices too strong late on. Runner-up behind Getaway Trump in desperate ground at Exeter last time, he had previous winners Remastered and Samarquand (rated 135) behind him. Yet to race beyond two miles one, he is bred to appreciate further.” WON @ 4/1 at Wincanton on his handicap debut over 2m 5f (5/1/19)
HUNTER CHASERS: WINNERS: SAUSALITO SUNRISE (11/10), SHANTOU FLYER (8/15, 10/11), UCELLO CONTI (4/6, 4/7, 7/2)
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FEBRUARY 2019
BETFAIR HURDLE: AL DANCER WON @ 5/2
Quote: “AL DANCER bids to become the eighth novice to win the race in the last ten years and provide Nigel Twiston-Davies with his third victory (Splash of Ginge (2014) & Ballyandy (2017) – both six year old novices). The Al Namix gelding started his career with Christian Williams before being transferred to Naunton. Successful in a bumper at Bangor last spring, he then finished a creditable fourth in the Grade 2 championship event at Aintree. The six year old is unbeaten in three starts over hurdles, including when beating subsequent winners Windsor Avenue (twice) and Tedham at Carlisle in October. A comfortable winner at Ffos Las under a penalty, he then made a mockery of an opening handicap mark of 129 at Cheltenham in December. An eleven lengths scorer from Not That Fuisse (won since), he has been raised twelve pounds but it may not be enough to halt his progress. Already towards the forefront of the ante-post market for the Sky Bet Supreme NH at Cheltenham, he ought to go very close off 141, if he is to make an impact in the Festival opener. Unbeaten with Sam Twiston-Davies on his back, he handles good and soft ground but may not want bottomless conditions.” WON the Betfair Hurdle by three and three quarters of a length @ 5/2.
WINNERS: EMITOM (6/4), L’AIR DU VENT (10/11), MISTY WHISKY (5/1)
Quote: “Harry Fry has his eye on another Listed bumper for his potentially exciting mare MISTY WHISKY. The EBF Stallions/TBA Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt race at Sandown (9th March) has been earmarked for the progressive daughter of Stowaway. A half-sister to four times winning stablemate Air Horse One and Nigel Twiston-Davies’ One For Rosie, she was pitched in against the geldings on her debut at Aintree in November. In receipt of seven pounds, she was sent off 11/10 favourite in a small but select field. The steady early gallop didn’t play to her strengths with the front running and more experienced Sojourn dictating matters. Denied by a length and three quarters, she stayed on well to fill the runners-up berth (fifth has won since). Reappearing less than a month later at Ludlow, Sean Bowen’s mount made no mistake next time when beating List One by three lengths pulling clear in the home straight. His rider was impressed saying: “Misty Whisky is very nice. She was very green at Aintree and I was probably there too soon today, but all she does is gallop. She'd come on massively and learned a lot from Aintree and went through that soft ground fine, but went on better ground at Aintree, so I'm sure she's fairly versatile.” Reported to be improving all the time by her trainer, her ultimate target this term is the Grade 2 mares’ bumper at Aintree (4th April). It may take a good one to stop her winning at the Esher venue en route.” WON the Listed mares’ bumper at Sandown @ 5/1
AUTUMN POINTERS: WINNERS: CHANTRY HOUSE (8/13), MINELLA MELODY (9/10), MOUNT IDA (13/8), SOPAT (4/1), WALK AWAY (13/8)
Quote: “The headline mare from the autumn, in terms of price was MINELLA MELODY (by Flemensfirth): she arrived at Boulta in December with a tall reputation and made light work of making a winning debut: the substance of that race is questionable but her style was pleasing on the eye. She has apparently changed hands for a sum in the region on £300,000 (private deal) and will be in the future care of Henry De Bromhead.” WON by 12 lengths at Gowran Park (9/3/19) on her Rules debut @ 9/10.
Quote: “Out of the geldings, I will pick one six year old: WALK AWAY, a relentless galloper, he survived a final fence scare to win on his debut at Ballindenisk: another bought by Henry De Bromhead, this big unit by Black Sam Bellamy will be a fine 130+ staying handicap chaser.” WON by 9 lengths at Thurles (7/3/19) on his hurdling debut @ 13/8.
CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL HANDICAPS PREVIEW: SIRE DU BERLAIS (Advised @ 10/1 – WON the Pertemps Final @ 4/1), DALLAS DES PICTONS (WON @ 7/2 at Leopardstown, plus advised @ 16/1 for the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ HH at Cheltenham finished 2nd @ 7/2 favourite.
Quote: “J.P.McManus has won the Pertemps Final (Thursday 14th March) twice this century (Creon (2004) & Kadoun (2006)) and the legendary owner is responsible for both SIRE DU BERLAIS and THE ORGANIST. The former is trained by Gordon Elliott and has only raced nine times over hurdles and is unexposed over three miles. Beaten seven and a half lengths in fourth in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Hurdle at the Festival last March, the seven year old is now rated two pounds lower off a mark of 142. The Poliglote gelding has only raced twice this season finishing eighth in a two and a half miles handicap hurdle at Naas in November. Stepped up to three miles for the first time in a Pertemps qualifier at Leopardstown’s Christmas fixture, Davy Russell’s mount kept on in the closing stages to finish sixth and was only around ten lengths behind the winner Cuneo. From the family of Howard Johnson’s Becher Chase runner-up and Grade 2 winning novice hurdler Royal Rosa, the ex-French gelding handles most types of ground and is guaranteed a place in the line-up with his rating. Elliott won the race last season with Delta Work and this has probably been the plan all season (10/1 generally).” SIRE DU BERLAIS (Advised @ 10/1) WON the Pertemps Final at the Cheltenham Festival @ 4/1
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The CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL 2019
5 WINNERS: A PLUS TARD (Advised @ 8/1), TOPOFTHEGAME (4/1). ENVOI ALLEN (Advised @ 4/1), SIRE DU BERLAIS (Advised @ 6/1), SIRUH DU LAC (9/2)
Plus: COKO BEACH (Advised @ 25/1 – 2nd @ 14/1), ANIBALE FLY (Advised @ 25/1 – 2nd @ 22/1)
Quote: “A PLUS TARD (featured on page 128 of OJA) had alternative entries at the Festival in the RSA and JLT Novice Chases suggesting he may be fairly treated here off 144. Twice a winner over hurdles in France, including a Listed contest at Auteuil, when trained by Dominique Bressou, he was subsequently bought by Cheveley Park Stud and has run three good races over fences for Henry De Bromhead. Runner-up at Gowran in October, he then beat subsequent 15 lengths winner Duc De Genievres (runs in the Arkle) by three and a quarter lengths at Naas in December. Beaten around two lengths by Winter Escape (fifth in a Grade 1 next time) in Graded company at Punchestown last time in receipt of a stone, he is lightly raced and is a superb jumper. Chapoturgeon won this as a five year old and there have been two Irish trained winners (Finger Onthe Pulse (2008) & Tully East (2017)).” WON the Close Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase by 16 lengths @ 5/1 (Advised @ 8/1)
Quote: “TOPOFTHEGAME (Top 40) won a point-to-point for Donnchadh Doyle before being bought for £120,000. A dual winning hurdler who was rated 154, he won a Grade 3 handicap at Sandown before finishing a neck second in the Coral Cup twelve months ago. Returning to chasing (fell at Newbury on his fencing bow last season) this time around, he was runner-up behind Defi Du Seuil at Exeter (2m 3f) having forfeited over twenty lengths at the start. The giant seven year old then looked certain to win the Grade 1 Kauto Star NC at Kempton when jumping to the front at the third last, only to get run out of it after the final fence by the high-class mare La Bague Au Roi (won another Grade 1 since). Paul Nicholls has purposely kept him fresh since and the Flemensfirth gelding is reportedly in tip-top shape. The former champion trainer has won this twice (Star De Mohaison (2006) & Denman (2007)).” WON the RSA Chase @ 4/1
Quote: “ENVOI ALLEN (Top 40) was purchased for £400,000 in February last year having won his only point by ten lengths for Colin Bowe. Unbeaten in three races under Rules for Cheveley Park Stud and Gordon Elliott, he won at Fairyhouse and Navan (Listed) in the space of a fortnight in December before returning at Leopardstown last month. Taken wide by Jamie Codd, the Muhtathir gelding stayed on strongly to beat a host of promising types by upwards of a length and a quarter from Meticulous in the Grade 2 event. He sets the standard but this will be his stiffest test to date.” WON the Grade 1 Festival bumper @ 2/1 (Advised @ 4/1)
Quote: “SIRE DU BERLAIS is another leading fancy from the Elliott yard. Seven and a half lengths fourth in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockey HH last year off 144, he is only a pound higher now and qualifies for this having finished sixth at Leopardstown last time. It was the first time he had tackled three miles and was staying on under Davy Russell. The Poliglote gelding has only raced twice this term and this has obviously been the plan all year. From the family of Becher Chase runner-up Royal Rosa, he is unexposed over the trip and is very much shortlist material.” WON the Pertemps Final @ 4/1 (Advised @ 6/1)
Quote: “SIRUH DU LAC has been in terrific form this season winning all three of his starts. The progressive six year old has scored at Newbury, Exeter and Cheltenham off marks of 123, 129 and 134. A head winner from the aforementioned Janika at the last named venue, he has been raised a further seven pounds since. Nick Williams’ charge handles most types of ground and has won five of his seven races over fences. A tremendous jumper, he looks capable of defying that rise in the weights.” WON the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase @ 9/2
Quote: “COKO BEACH is one of five entries Gordon Elliott (Flaxen Flare (2013) & Veneer of Charm (2018)) has left in at the five day stage. A four and a half lengths winner at Nantes (Very soft) when trained by Francois Nicolle, he was bought soon afterwards and plunged straight into Grade 2 company at Leopardstown over Christmas. Sent off 6/1 and backed on the day, he was beaten twenty one lengths in ninth on much quicker ground. Last time, he performed a lot better (again on good ground) in a slowly run juvenile hurdle at Naas last month. Beaten eight lengths by the aforementioned Band of Outlaws, he is now five pounds better off with the ex-Flat racer and a combination of a stiffer track and more testing conditions ought to see the pair finish closer here. I think he is an interesting outsider who could be a different proposition on slower ground.” Advised @ 25/1 – 2nd in the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle @ 14/1
Quote: “ANIBALE FLY was a running on third in the race last year, eight and a half lengths behind Native River. Tony Martin’s stable star has only raced twice this term – withdrawn twice at Leopardstown due to drying ground. Beaten nearly twenty five lengths in the Grade 2 Hilly Way Chase at Cork (2m) in December, he was a good second behind Monalee in the Grade 2 Red Mills Chase at Gowran Park last month. Keeping on in the closing stages, he was fourth in the Grand National last season and will relish the return to this longer trip. His record at Grade 1 level is 32P2F3. The softer the ground the better, he arrives fresh and has definite each-way claims, granted suitable conditions.” Advised @ 25/1 – 2nd in the Cheltenham Gold Cup @ 22/1
FESTIVAL PREVIEW ROUND-UPS:
ANTHONY BROMLEY:Quote: PENTLAND HILLS (Triumph Hurdle): “An inexpensive buy out of Chris Wall’s yard, he won twice on the Flat. He then had ringworm when he first joined Nicky (Henderson). It was therefore a rushed preparation prior to winning very easily at Plumpton on his hurdles debut last month. He beat a useful horse and is an interesting contender for the Triumph Hurdle.” WON the Triumph Hurdle @ 20/1
TALKING TRAINERS: PAUL NICHOLLS: WINNERS: FRODON (9/2), TOPOFTHEGAME (4/1)
Quote: FRODON: “He has had an amazing season winning three out of four, including the Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham last time over a trip which was only eight yards short of the Gold Cup distance, according to Simon Claisse. He is in seriously good order at home, too, and he looks great. Entered in both the Ryanair and Gold Cup, it will be a last minute call but I suspect he will end up running in the former.” WON the Ryanair Chase @ 9/2
Quote: TOPOFTHEGAME: “A huge horse who has been a big baby but has a big engine. He won a Graded handicap hurdle at Sandown last season before being narrowly beaten in the Coral Cup at Cheltenham. Unlucky on his reappearance over fences at Exeter, he missed the start and must have forfeited over twenty five lengths. He just spooked at something but still ran a lovely race behind Defi Du Seuil. Then, last time in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton, he hit the front too soon and was run out of it late on. Harry (Cobden) learned his lesson because he held on to Clan Des Obeaux a bit longer and won the King George later the same day. I think he will develop into a Gold Cup contender next season. The plan is to run him in the RSA Chase.” WON the RSA Chase @ 4/1
TALKING TRAINERS: GORDON ELLIOTT: WINNERS: ENVOI ALLEN (2/1), SIRE DU BERLAIS (4/1), TIGER ROLL (5/4)
Quote: ENVOI ALLEN: “He is a three mile chaser in the making and has looked good in all three of his bumpers this season. His preparation has gone well and I couldn’t be happier with him.” WON the Grade 1 Festival bumper @ 2/1
Quote: SIRE DU BERLAIS: “He worked very well on Friday morning. Fourth in the Martin Pipe HH last year, the longer trip here will suit him.” WON the Pertemps Final @ 4/1
Quote: TIGER ROLL: “Keith Donoghue rides him in the Cross Country chase on Wednesday. He worked well on Tuesday morning and has had a brilliant preparation.” WON the Cross Country chase by 22 lengths @ 5/4
DATES FOR THE DIARY:
Quote: “This is one for Flat racing fans. I interviewed Karl Burke last month (he was en route to watch Liverpool play Bayern Munich at Anfield) and he is very keen on an unraced filly called ROBOTIQUE DANSEUR. By the same sire as stable star Laurens, namely Siyouni, she is entered in the French 1000 Guineas and the Middleham trainer believes she is very good.” WON at Newcastle (29/3/19) @ 9/2
Saturday 23rd March – NEWBURY – 5.00 Goffs UK Spring Sale Bumper
“Harry Fry has won the last two renewals of this £50,000 event courtesy of Bullionaire and Caribert and Paul Nicholls’ former assistant can land the hat-trick. GET IN THE QUEUE looks well bought at £40,000 as a three year old having won both his starts. A gelding by Mount Nelson, he won at Uttoxeter in December by nine lengths in the same event the ill-fated stablemate Neon Wolf won two years earlier. The five year old then bolted up under a penalty at Exeter last month by sixteen lengths conceding sixteen pounds to the runner-up. Held in the highest regard, he runs here in preference to the Festival bumper.” WON by four and a half lengths @ 1/3.
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The AINTREE GRAND MEETING 2019
WINNERS: FELIX DESJY (Advised @ 8/1), MIN (Advised @ 5/1)
Quote: “FELIX DESJY was a useful bumper horse finishing sixth in the championship event at the Cheltenham Festival last season having raced too keenly. The six year old has been in and out over hurdles this campaign winning impressively at Galway on his reappearance in October. Below par on his next three outings, Gordon Elliott’s gelding was back to form in January when winning the Grade 2 Sky Bet Moscow Flyer NH at Punchestown (Good) by five lengths. Given a break, he was a creditable fifth in the Supreme NH at Cheltenham last month, holding every chance turning for home. Beaten eleven lengths, he looks a better horse on a flatter track and Aintree ought to suit him.” Advised @ 8/1 WON the Grade 1 Top Novices’ Hurdle @ 7/2
Quote: “MIN was beaten a neck by Poltilogue in the race last year having raced keenly early on. The eight year old had looked better than ever during the first half of this season winning the Grade 1 John Durkan Chase at Punchestown in December by a length and a half before winning another Grade 1 over two miles at Leopardstown (for the second consecutive year) in February by six lengths. However, Willie Mullins’ Walk In The Park gelding produced a lacklustre performance in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham finishing a well beaten fifth behind Altior. His record over 2m 4f is 121 and he is a triple Grade 1 winner. Ireland’s champion trainer won this with Boston Bob five years ago and he has a major contender again. Ruby Walsh (11211115) is expected to take the ride.” Advised @ 5/1 WON the Grade 1 Melling Chase by 20 lengths @ 2/1
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