Horse Racing – Hawkinsport

2000 Guineas Runner-By-Runner Guide and Verdict

1. Auguste Rodin

Jockey: R L Moore

3yo Colt

Trainer: A P O’Brien

OR: 118

Form: 2111-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

BRILLIANTLY bred colt has three wins from four starts from a successful campaign as a two year old, which concluded with a group one victory in the Futurity Trophy Stakes at Doncaster. This came ahead of a consistent Holloway Boy five lengths behind in third place and he runs again here. On the day Auguste Rodin was in a different class, galloping powerfully away from the field late on. The John Gosden trained Epictetus finished runner-up that day and he won a listed contest over 1-mile and 2 furlongs on seasonal reappearance this term. This field provides a tougher test but this form tells us Aidan O’Brien’s runner is not only quick but has enough stamina to beat horses who stay further than a mile. O’Brien has also been positive about the horse’s chances and is hopeful he can be the first to complete the triple crown since the great Nijinsky in 1970. Ryan Moore has chosen this horse over Little Big Bear.

2. Chaldean

Jockey: L Dettori

3yo Colt

Trainer: A M Balding

OR: 119

Form: 51111-U

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

BOASTS course form after winning at group one level in the Dewhurst last season, where Royal Scotsman finished second by a head. Also has confirmed form ahead of Silver Knott and Indestructible who both run again here. Indestructible won the group three Craven Stakes late last month which adds credibility to the form. Made a seasonal reappearance last month but unseated Dettori coming out of the stalls. If lives up to his prolific two-year-old campaign could come close but some narrow winning margins may make other runners more appealing.

3. Charyn

Jockey: Unconfirmed

3yo Colt

Trainer: R Varian

OR: 110

Form: 1231-2

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

NEVER out of the top three in five starts and runner-up in the group three Greenham Stakes last month behind a good winner in Isaac Shelby over seven furlongs. At his best won a group two in France last season on soft ground and soft conditions could help his cause. Other horses have more appealing form and he was well beaten by Sakheer, who runs here, in the Mill Reef Stakes last season. Roger Varian has stated the step up to a mile should suit. Tom Marquand will likely miss the ride due to an arm injury that was sustained yesterday.

4. Dubai Mile

Jockey: D Muscutt

3yo Colt

Trainer: Charlie Johnston

OR: 114

Form: 41121-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

AT his best in his final run as a two year old when he claimed a group one in Saint Cloud last October. Heavy going and a steady pace appeared to suit that day, with Muscutt hard at work coming off the final bend to hold position before the horse battled bravely to hold on in the finish. He may not get a repeat of those conditions here and was beaten by Andrew Balding runner The Foxes in September. The Foxes has form finishing behind Holloway Boy and Indestructible who both run here so this horse may need improvement.

5. Fight Plan

Jockey: D Tudhope

3yo Colt

Trainer: K R Burke

OR: 102

Form: 51-2

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

NOT disgraced when finishing second on seasonal reappearance in the listed Burradon Stakes at Newcastle 28 days ago. Dear My Friend was the victor that day on the all-weather track, with this horse finishing behind by a neck. This horse only has one win from three starts which came in a novice event which has produced very few winners since. Needs extra.

6. Galeron

Jockey: K Shoemark

3yo Colt

Trainer: C Hills

OR: 97

Form: 16641-3

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

FINISHED his season as a two year old by winning the Goffs Million on soft ground over seven furlongs. This is the most valuable race in Ireland for a winner and highly competitive as 19 ran in total that day. The most notable winner from that field since is probably Magical Sunset who won a listed fillies race at Newbury the following month. Other than that the field has produced placing efforts at class one level, including a placed effort by this horse behind Dear My Friend and Flight Plan in the Burradon Stakes last month. Interesting profile but in a race of this quality might need big improvement, as is reflected by a rating of 97.

7. Hi Royal

Jockey: Oisin Murphy

3yo Colt

Trainer: K A Ryan

OR: 91

Form: 31-4

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

THREE-TIME champion jockey Oisin Murphy takes the ride on this Kodiac colt, whose only victory came over a distance of a mile as a two-year-old novice. That race has only produced one other winner and this horse was last seen finishing fourth in a conditions race over seven furlongs at Newmarket. That race has produced a few placing efforts from other runners, including one at listed level. Despite a return to a probably more favoured trip, the form offers little encouragement in a race of this quality, with Murphy on board being the main draw for this runner.

8. Holloway Boy

Jockey: C Soumillon

3yo Colt

Trainer: K R Burke

OR: 109

Form: 12233-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs v

WON a competitive listed Chesham Stakes on debut which has gone on to produce group winners like Finn’s Charm and Crypto Force. Previously mentioned smart runner The Foxes was also in behind in ninth. Winless since but has never finished out of the places, whilst losing to the likes of Marbaan and Nostrum. Auguste Rodin and Silver Knott go again here and also have previous winning form ahead of this runner. Hung across the track horribly to his Christophe Soumillon takes the ride and is another jockey with significant draw.

9. Indestructible

Jockey: K Stott

3yo Colt

Trainer: K R Burke

OR: 112

Form: 5122-1

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

SMART looking winner of the group three Craven Stakes last month over course and distance on seasonal debut. Beat The Foxes by just over a length to do so, and although improvement from his rival could be a possible explanation, other runners in this field have managed that feat in easier fashion. Last season ran bravely in defeat finishing second to Chaldean twice by respectable margins and runs for owners whose runners are in fine form this season. Warrants interest.

10. Little Big Bear

Jockey: W M Lordan

3yo Colt

Trainer: A P O’Brien

OR: 124

Form: 21111-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

WITH an impressive victory in last season’s group one Phoenix Stakes ahead of multiple winners at group level, this horse comes into this race as the highest rated in the field. He won by seven lengths and the margin was only getting bigger. This along with suitable breeding suggests the step up in distance shouldn’t be an issue. The form this horse has could be argued for as the best in the race in terms of horses beaten but Ryan Moore has opted to take the ride on stablemate Auguste Rodin instead.

11. Noble Style

Jockey: J Doyle

3yo Colt

Trainer: C Appleby

OR: 117

Form: 111-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

MUCH like Little Big Bear, this horse is stepping up in trip by two furlongs for the first time and ran green at times last season which may be the only concern at this level. Ran out an impressive winner of the group two Gimcrack Stakes at York in August. Beat multiple horses who would go on to group-level success including Marshman, Cold Case and notably Royal Scotsman, who has good form behind some of the other runners and goes again here. This horse finished over six lengths ahead of Royal Scotsman in fifth, much better than the winning distance of a head that Chaldean managed in the Dewhurst. William Buick has taken the ride on stablemate Silver Knott but if he gets the trip this horse physically matches up to the top contenders in this field and, at the time of writing, his price offers great value for last year’s winning stable.

12. Royal Scotsman

Jockey: J Crowley

3yo Colt

Trainer: P F I Cole

OR: 118

Form: 413152-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

AFTER defeat to Noble Style in the Gimcrack, stepped up to seven furlongs in the Dewhurst 209 days ago and finished a close second behind the consistent Chaldean. Hasn’t been seen yet this season but has good course form and, looking back further, has form ahead of multiple group one winner Blackbeard when third in the Coventry Stakes last June. This runner clearly has great quality to have achieved some of these results against class names and a step up in trip should suit.

13. Sakheer

Jockey: D Egan

3yo Colt

Trainer: R Varian

OR: 114

Form: 211-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

CAPPED off his campaign as a two year old by winning the group two Mill Reef Stakes comfortably ahead of stablemate Charyn, who was over three lengths behind in third. Like a few others in the field doesn’t have a lot of form that matches up to the level of this race but has shown a lot of ability. If the step up to a mile Roger Varian will be hopeful this horse can add another success in a classic to the St. Leger Eldar Eldarov won at the end of last season and there’s a good chance he will be involved.

14. Silver Knott

Jockey: W Buick

3yo Colt

Trainer: C Appleby

OR: 115

Form: 411312-

Wgt: 9st 2lbs

THE first choice of jockey William Buick and a Breeders’ Cup runner-up over this distance last season. Had two group three wins as a two year old and finished ahead of Holloway Boy over course and distance by nearly two lengths in the Autumn Stakes in October. He then went to America and missed out on group one success in the Juvenile Turf by a narrow margin over a mile. Using Holloway Boy as a measuring stick to compare with some of the other main contenders, this horse should be involved at the business end if he runs to form and he comes in as one of the most experienced horses in the field.

Verdict

1st Little Big Bear

2nd Noble Style

3rd Auguste rodin

Despite not being Ryan Moore’s first choice, LITTLE BIG BEAR gets the pick. He has a Royal Ascot win ahead of 23 runners and a group one under his belt which he won in great fashion. He is the top rated horse in the race for a reason and provided his speed translates over to the finish over a longer trip of a mile he will be very hard to beat. NOBLE STYLE at the time of writing presents great each way value, has significant claims based on ability alone and should not be ignored at his current price. The horse looked incredible physically when storming home to win the Gimcrack Stakes last season, and did so impressively despite showing greenness and running a bit left late on. AUGUSTE RODIN could easily win this and connections have been extremely positive about him in the build up. He possibly has the best stamina in the field and looks destined to step up in trip as he is currently aimed at completing the triple crown. The quality of some of the established six-furlong runners is very hard to ignore. If one of them is able to see out the mile trip thoroughly Auguste Rodin may be found wanting for gears, so despite the trip not being a concern, at his current price is worth taking on.

Aintree Grand National Festival Day 1: My Picks

13:45 – Racehorse Lotto Manifesto Novices’ Chase (Grade 1) – Stage Star

CHELTENHAM-Aintree doubles can be very rare and tend to only be completed by the best in class, such as Buveur D’Air after his first Champion Hurdle, and more recently Shishkin and of course Tiger Roll. Stage Star has had a brilliant season over fences and his superb jumping should see him in with a great chance of doing the double against only four opponents. Joint favourite Banbridge isn’t without a chance and gave Cheltenham a miss last month, but has come up short to top class opposition in his last two starts against the likes of El Fabiolo and Mighty Potter. This horse has the best form in the field after winning the Turners Novices’ Chase last month, where he finished ahead of multiple grade one winners Mighty Potter and Appreciate It.

14:20 – Jewson Anniversary 4yo Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 1) – Nusret

THIS horse has placed behind top class opposition like Lossiemouth and Blood Destiny during the course of the season but has been saved for Aintree. He will also appreciate the ground if it stays good as his last start showed, where Perseus Way and Scriptwriter both finished in behind him at Kempton. It is worth noting that the favourite, Zenta has a good chance and placed behind Lossiemouth at Cheltenham last month. It was a much closer affair than when Nusret finished 16 lengths behind the star mare on Boxing Day. The reason Nusret gets the pick is because Zenta is coming off the back of a tough contest at Cheltenham, Nusret picking up a win in his most recent outing and some similarities to O’Brien’s Fakir D’oudairies. He is Joseph O’Brien’s most successful Aintree runner, a dual grade one winner at Aintree who could also perform on good going. He also often placed behind top class horses and last season skipped Cheltenham before winning the Marsh Chase.

14:55 – Alder Hey Aintree Bowl Chase (Grade 1) – Ahoy Senor

FESTIVAL form can be at a premium at the Grand National meeting and this horse could make it three wins in three seasons here. Despite the classy Bravemansgame finishing behind this horse on both occasions, the withdrawal of Paul Nicholls’ Gold Cup runner-up will only improve the chances of this horse. He often runs enthusiastically out front on the good ground at Aintree at this time of year and his trainer Lucinda Russell as descried him as a “spring-time horse”. She has remained positive after this horse suffered a fall in the later stages of the gold cup last month, but based on his previous results from the last two years he will take some beating. His powerful travelling ability should be able to cause A Plus Tard, Shishkin and Conflated problems, provided his jumping has improved as it did here last season.

16:05 – Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Chase (National Course) – Winged Leader

THERE will be an element of unfinished business with this pick for anyone who backed this horse at last year’s Cheltenham Festival. He travelled powerfully once in front, displaying excellent jumping and, for a hunters’ chaser, great agility. The one thing the performance was missing was restraint and a brilliantly judged late surge by Billaway under Patrick Mullins saw the race slip from his grasp in the final strides up the hill. This horse is a perfect three from three this season in point-to-points and steps down in trip to two-miles-five-furlongs here. If he displays the same relentless late gallop here, with a flatter course and the shorter distance, he will be hard to stop.

17:15 – Goffs UK Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open NH Flat Race (Grade 2) – Seeyouinmydreams

THIS horse really caught the eye at a bumper at Newbury six weeks ago. The run followed a wind op and provided similar conditions to what is expected here. She looked like pure class and although it is difficult to put into context due to many runners on that occasion being lightly raced bumper horses, the nature of the victory was very promising. She set a strong pace, stretched the field putting in all the hard work herself and cruised late on, all whilst on the bridle and extended the lead to a winning margin of 11 lengths. The eye test says this is a very worthy favourite and could be the pick of the bunch.

Haydock Group 1 Betfair Sprint Cup Stakes Verdict

Possible Bets

To Win

Minzaal

Verdict

MINZAAL gets the pick here after an impressive performance finishing a respectable second to Highfield Princess in the Arc Prix Maurice De Gheest late last month. The winner went on to win another group one in the Nunthorpe at York in simplistic fashion. When the two met at Deauville, Minzaal had to come from further back in the field and still managed to gain many lengths on the eventual winner, before being held in the last half-furlong. Ultimately the places don’t look too defined here, and a straight win seems the best pick as Minzaal’s recent form stands out. He has been a consistent performer, only finishing outside of the top three once in his career. NAVAL CROWN also finished behind Highfield Princess in France where he finished fifth. He tried to go with the winner when she initially broke from the pack and appeared to lose stamina in the closing stages. The rest of the pack mounted a later challenge and a few horses unexpectedly overtook him. Rohaan was one of those late challengers who finished ahead of Charlie Appleby’s horse, but he hasn’t been as consistent as Naval Crown in group one company and subsequently finished seventh in the Nunthorpe. GO BEARS GO was disappointing in his last group one contest at Ascot in the Commonwealth Cup. However, he has since placed second behind Minzaal in the group three Hackwood Stakes and won the group three Phoenix Sprint Stakes at Curragh. His recent form includes a promising run, finishing second behind the predicted winner here and his front-running style could see him make up the places.

My Picks: York Ebor Meeting Day 3 Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes Verdict

Predicted Finish

Possible Bets

To Win Or Each Way

Highfield Princess

Tricasts

1st Highfield Princess

2nd Raasel, Khaadem, Royal Aclaim

3rd Raasel, Khaadem, Royal Aclaim – 6 Combinations.

HIGHFIELD PRINCESS is fresh off the back of a very impressive group one victory in the Arc Prix Maurice De Gheest at Deauville earlier this month. There, she beat Naval Crown and Perfect Power who have both won at group one level, with group three winners Minzaal and Garrus making up the places. She steps down in trip to five furlongs here. RAASEL was last seen finishing in second place behind KHAADEM in the group two King George Qatar Stakes at Goodwood last month. This form could easily be reversed, as Raasel made impressive progress late on after being short of room and reduced a gap of three lengths to only a neck on the line. ROYAL ACLAIM should also be in the picture. She is unbeaten in three starts and won a listed race at York in July. She will carry two pounds less than Highland Princess and five pounds less than Raasel and Khaadem. This does represent a big jump up in class and that is why she is included here but not to win, but she appears to have a lot of ability. Highfield Princess offers some value at the time of writing and works each way, while the other three mentioned will make up the places in the tricasts. The different combinations offer some cover as all three are good runners and it could be very competitive for the places.

Cheltenham Festival 2022 – Day 4 Tips

13:30 – JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1) – Fil D’or

Fil D’or will be in the experienced hands of Davy Russell and was long time antepost favourite for this race. A breath-taking display here by Pied Piper in late January and a brave effort in defeat to Vauban at the Dublin Festival saw this horse drift slightly. Vauban did show some weaknesses in victory, with his jumping relatively clumsy before getting smarter in the closing stages. However, the hill in the straight at Cheltenham is longer in distance than the one at Leopardstown which should help Fil D’or out. Jumping fluency at Cheltenham is also important due to the regularity of the hurdles and the undulations. As mentioned before Pied Piper has strong claims and he also has form ahead of Vauban from December. Despite this Fil D’or rarely puts a foot wrong when jumping, has lots of stamina and Cheltenham could really suit him.

14:10 – McCoy Contractors County Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) – West Cork

With the form some of his runners have been in this season it is a bit surprising that Dan Skelton hasn’t yet trained a winner at this season’s festival. West Cork won the competitive grade three Greatwood Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham in November, after 631 days off the course ahead of the likes of Adagio. He was carrying top weight and ran in the Champion Hurdle a few days ago, a higher level race despite not making an impression there. Camprond was six lengths back in 4^th and had won a grade two earlier in the season so has quality. Further back was Marie’s Rock who won the Mares’ Hurdle earlier in this meeting and appears to be a big scalp after her recent achievement. He will carry 11st 1lb, only 2lb higher than the weight he carried to victory last time he was seen here. This means he will carry 4lb less than Alan King trained Tritonic who beat this horse at Ascot when he was last seen in December. West Cork suffered a niggle in this run which may have affected the result and has been kept fresh for the festival as a result.

14:50 – Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) – Hillcrest

Well known for being one of the biggest horses in training, Henry Daly’s Hillcrest is too big for a measuring stick 18 hands long. He has great ability to go with that size however, with his huge galloping stride making him a respected runner here. He claimed the listed Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle here in January ahead of the smart I Am Maximus, but a step up to three miles was always going to suit. He looks like a horse built for chasing with Daly saying anything he does over hurdles would be a bonus but he might just have the ability. A worry would be that he only ran 28 days ago on heavy ground. His trainer has said it wasn’t a particularly tasking run but wasn’t ideal. He needed a run before Cheltenham and Aintree after he unseated jockey Richard Patrick early in a grade two at Cheltenham in January. He has grade two and listed success and Daly has decided to run him here instead of Aintree so the winner at listed and grade two level must be good to go.

15:30 – Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (Grade 1) – A Plus Tard

Runner-up in this race last year, A Plus Tard was last seen at Leopardstown in December, where he was narrowly defeated by Galvin in the Savills Chase when tiring in the closing stages. He was produced a bit earlier than Galvin, who was in cover turning for home and this might mean he had important stamina left at the end. This horse kept pace with Minella Indo in last year’s renewal and was gaining late on. If he can reproduce something similar here he has every chance. He has a grade one under his belt this term, after winning the Betfair Chase in November at Haydock. His trainer Henry De Bromhead has stated that he ran well in defeat last time and is happy with both runs. Rachael Blackmore had the choice of the out of form Minella Indo, last year’s winner, or this horse and she has sided with the Cheveley Park runner.

16:10 – St. James’s Place Festival Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Chase – Winged Leader

Winged Leader has great form coming into this, with a hattrick of hunters’ chase victories, including an impressive win at Thurles where Billaway finished 12 lengths behind. Billaway is normally well backed in these contests and was the runner-up of this race last season. Winged Leader has shown good ability on undulating courses in previous runs and is a very efficient, slick jumper. Trainer David Christie has said that this is his best chance of getting his first Cheltenham Festival winner and is confident his charge can handle different types of ground.

16:50 – Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Chase (Grade 2) – Mount Ida

Mount Ida won the Kim Muir at last year’s festival and was subsequently beaten by Elimay at Fairyhouse in April. She has since avenged this form by beating Elimay at Fairyhouse in January last time we saw her. This run shows progression too, because in defeat to Elimay, Mount Ida carried 6lbs less than her. In their most recent run Mount Ida carried 3lbs more than her rival and won well after being bumped in the straight. The run deserves a lot of credit as the uphill finish at Fairyhouse is draining and she only tired as she hit the line. She will face Willie Mullins’ Concertista, who is two wins from two so far over fences. However, despite winning the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle in 2020, she has been runner-up in two Cheltenham Festivals and might get beat by a tough mare whose next target is the Grand National.

17:30 – Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle – Hollow Games

Hollow Games will carry 11st 9lbs here but he has been running well in defeat in grade one company. He only finished a couple of lengths behind the winners of these races, Ginto and Minella Coocooner. This horse has also reversed form with Grand Jury who finished 2^nd in the race behind Ginto, but since finished a disappointing 6^thin the latter mentioned race where Hollow Games showed much more quality. This race does represent a step down in trip compared to his previous start and he does look like a stayer, but despite the distance this race has suited novice staying types in the past. Last season’s winner, Galopin Des Champs is a clear staying type with Champagne Classic another previous winner with graded form over the stayers’ distance. This horse is a grade three winner and did so ahead of Lunar Display. Lunar Display doesn’t necessarily win many but has placed in five graded/listed events and won once at that level. This shows a level of consistency and it might see him do well in a handicap. Wears a tongue tie for the first time.

Cheltenham Festival 2022: Day 1 Picks

13:30 – Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (Grade 1) – Constitution Hill

The assessment with this horse is mainly down to an eye test, due to a lack of grade-winning company in behind him in both starts at Sandown. In the latter start he claimed the grade one Tolworth Novices’ Hurdle. The conditions there were heavy and many tired in the straight in other races on the day. This horse appeared to show accurate jumping, and great acceleration on tough ground in an uphill finish. On both starts his travelling speed hasn’t been put to the test due to the quality of opposition he has faced so far, but he has looked to be travelling in second gear most of the time. connections haven’t said he is ground dependant as his first start was on good-soft and that was another wide margin victory with ease. His jockey Nico De Boinville has spoke very highly of the horse. Although cautious, he has said he felt special and says the horse has excellent temperament and push button acceleration. The absence of Sir Gerhard also opens the race up even more for the Nicky Henderson runners.

14:10 – Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase (Grade 1) – Blue Lord

This year’s renewal of the Arkle has been a bumpy ride for ante-post backers, particularly with the absence of long-time market leader Ferny Hollow being announced in January. Blue Lord was last seen finishing ahead of Riviere D’etel in the Irish Arkle in February, after the mare surrendered a slender lead with an untidy jump in the closing stages. The mare had very respectable form just one and a half lengths behind Ferny Hollow at Leopardstown on Boxing Day, suggesting she is in the mix in terms of speed. However, at Cheltenham there will be more of an emphasis on slick jumping which could see Blue Lord edge the contest. He would have to confirm the Irish Arkle form, where he finished ahead of Riviere D’etel, Saint Sam and Haut En Couleurs. He also faces tough competition from British rival Edwardstone, who has rarely put a foot wrong this season, winning four from five contests over fences. Despite three graded victories in those runs, two came ahead of horses with questionable form in graded contests over fences. Third Time Lucki was one of the standout horses in the field who finished behind Edwardstone at Sandown. However Dan Skelton’s runner only won a grade two against two unproven horses at that level. When he met Edwardstone, the hills at Sandown sapped his stamina too easily and he faded badly late on. This field has a stronger Irish influence and should prove more testing with Blue Lord having leading form claims.

15:30 – Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy (Grade 1) – Honeysuckle

Undefeated in 14 starts and the reigning Champion Hurdle winner from last season, Honeysuckle faces new opposition this season. Willie Mullins’ Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner Appreciate it has been kept fresh this season and will make his seasonal debut at Cheltenham. Mullins has done this with great success in the past. Meanwhile, Gordon Elliott trained Teahupoo also goes here after a very successful season, claiming three graded races all ahead of reigning Triumph Hurdle winner Quilixios. This season Henry De Bromhead has plotted the same route to Cheltenham for Honeysuckle, but we have seen her opposition try to test her in a different way. Both her races this season the leader set a fast pace in an attempt to stretch her stamina and avoid her rapid turn of foot in the late stages. She passed both tests with flying colours, last seen finishing six lengths ahead of winner up to grade two level Zanahiyr. She has a big challenge on her hands but is a heavy odds-on favourite with good reason.

Each Way Mention – Teahupoo

Has shown versatility this season winning on heavy and good-soft. Has winning form over reigning Triumph Hurdle winner Quilixios on three occasions this season. The first could have been put down to Quilixios making his seasonal debut. The repeated wins are a sign of quality with the grade one winner looking far sharper in their 2^nd meeting. the last clash resulted in Teahupoo winning by 22 lengths to 3^rd place Quilixios, with Darasso in 2^nd who won a grade three over hurdles earlier this season. His travelling and athleticism should see him in the picture late on and at 8/1 is a decent each way option to take on the 2/5 favourite, but Honeysuckle remains the main pick.

16:10 – Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle – Telmesomethinggirl

Last year’s Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle winner, Telmesomethinggirl is without a win in three starts this season but has improved throughout. In her most recent run in December, a grade three mares’ hurdle at Leopardstown, she looked to be somewhere near her best again. She finished 3^rd just a length behind Peter Fahey trained Royal Kahala and reigning Coral Cup winner Heaven Help Us . Royal Kahala went on to step up in trip and win the grade two Galmoy Hurdle with the likes of grade one winning Klassical Dream in behind. The absence of Royal Kahala here is a boost and despite Heaven Help Us finishing ahead of this horse last time out, she had a tough run trying to make all against Honeysuckle in February. Her front running tactics could also make it difficult to fend off a finishing serge from this horse late on. With festival form and improvement throughout the season it is very possible this horse can win again at Cheltenham.

17:30 – Ukraine Appeal National Hunt Challenge Cup Amateur Jockeys’ Novices’ Chase – Stattler

Willie Mullins’ charge is undefeated in two starts over fences, with his most recent outing a grade three win at Naas, where Vanillier finished a distant 3^rd. This reversed form from Cheltenham last season where Vanillier won the Albert Bartlett, finishing 15 lengths ahead of this horse in 4^th. The shift in form suggests this horse has taken to fences better than his rival. Naas also has a stiff uphill finish, much like the straight at Cheltenham. Run Wild Fred is joint favourite at the time of writing, but is without graded success over fences with only one victory and placing on six occasions. This makes Stattler the more prolific horse and with that victory over a Cheltenham Festival winner in Vanillier, he boasts strong form.

Racing Tips: Saturday 19 February 2022

15:38 Ascot – Betfair Ascot Chase (Grade 1)- Saint Calvados

The King George VI Chase 3^rd caught the eye in his first run for new trainer Paul Nicholls on Boxing Day. After a wind op and the application of a tongue tie, he was in with every chance at the 2^nd last when he faded. The winner, Tornado Flyer, was the horse that was delivered the latest in stamina-sapping heavy ground, so there was no shame in fading two furlongs from home. This race represents a step down in trip by three furlongs, with Dashel Drasher likely to increase the pace quite far from home. This could recreate the conditions in which he ran so well at Kempton. He is also likely to get his favoured soft conditions.

14:20 Gowran Park – Red Mills Trial Hurdle (Grade 3) – Teahupoo

Has beaten the reigning Triumph Hurdle winner Quilixios in his last two starts. The latest meeting between the two was a much closer affair, but both times Quilixios kicked for home and this horse outlasted him in the closing stages. They will also carry the same weights here as in their previous clash, where Quilixios appeared a much improved horse from their first race of the season. With confirmed form over a Cheltenham Festival winner from last season, Teahupoo has five wins from six starts, and has reversed the form of his only defeat to Jeff Kidder. Teahupoo also holds an entry in this season’s Champion Hurdle, which shows how highly he is thought of by connections. Darasso probably represents his strongest challenger and is coming off his best victory over hurdles, winning a grade three ahead of well respected runner Saint Felicien. However, with only the two starts over hurdles prior to this defeat, it might be the case that this Saint Felicien was slightly unexposed, despite still being a quality runner. Saldier, who has winning form ahead of Darasso, also runs here. He does have grade one winning form, but is coming off the back of two heavy defeats to top class opposition that were ran at great pace and this can take it out of a horse.

14:40 Haydock – William Hill Grand National Trial Handicap Chase (Grade 3) – Blaklion

with two wins from three starts this season, 13 year old Blaklion claimed both victories in chases at Haydock on heavy ground. With heavy going particularly testing at Haydock, it can take a specialist to win there in such conditions. Weight carried will play a factor and Blaklion will carry 5lbs less than his previous success here. The most notable type in the lower weights is the 2020 Welsh National winner Secret Reprieve. However, Secret Reprieve’s form at Haydock reads 2^nd of two runners and fell. There are other promising types in the lower weights, some with form on heavy going, but Blaklion has run well in three Grand Nationals giving him better jumping efficiency that could prove the difference. It would also prove a popular success for a fan favourite who appears to have regained some good form after going winless since 2017.

15:30 Gowran Park – Red Mills Chase (Grade 2) – Daly Tiger

Returns over fences for the first time since finishing a respectable 2^nd to classy two miler Energumene by just over eight lengths, with the winner easing down at the line. This horse then claimed an ungraded victory over hurdles at Limerick on Boxing Day, before finishing a disappointing 4^th of five runners last time out. The going report at Gowran park reads soft to heavy, with more rain expected before the off. This horse has winning form ahead of Chatham Street Lad on heavy ground over fences. Daly Tiger’s only victory this season also came over this distance of two and a half miles on heavy ground. Current favourite Melon is stepping down in class and has always ran well in defeat in top class company but hasn’t got his nose in front since December 2019. Recent victories are scarce in this field. Other than this horse’s win over hurdles on Boxing Day, Chatham Street Lad is the most recent winner over fences, a grade three at Limerick in March.

Welsh Racehorse Trainer Dai Burchell Reflects on his Brilliant Career

Dai Burchell (right), with jockey Paddy Brennan (left), winner of the “Happy Retirement Dai Burchell Novices”

Link: https://twitter.com/Chepstow_Racing/status/1479177119817216007

“I think there are many special moments in racing, such as winning with other trainers’ ‘cast offs’, meeting such a lovely variety of people who have worked for us, ridden in races for us and been owners for us”

At the end of the month a legend of Welsh racing will retire from the sport after 40 years in the sport and over 430 winners.

Dai Burchell had built a career on taking horses that had fallen out of favour at their previous yard and improving them.

Dai and his wife Ruth have produced winners all over the UK, from the Norfolk National, Chepstow and Cheltenham over the jumps, to Ascot, Epsom, and Windsor on the flat.

Dai’s passion for horse racing started in 1953 when he went to Monmouth Show and watched the pony racing there.

After serving two years in the RAF, he started as a steelworker.

It was during this job and before he got his full licence, Dai bought a horse called Teddy Bear for £60, a horse that won him 15 races.

Burchell gave up his job at the Steelworks to become a full-time trainer.

His first winner under Jockey Club rules was a horse called Commissary, who won five races, four with Burchell in the saddle and earned a place in many other races.

In 1982 Dai earned his full licence that allowed him to train horses for other owners.

Dai married Ruth in 1986 after she joined him in the role of assistant trainer in 1983.

“My favourite horses to train are the ones who do their best for you.” Told Burchell.

“The ones who do their best for you, even if they don’t win, you know they can’t do any more.”

When asked which horse he trained was the best, Dai stated:

“Castle Secret was a real star for us and won 12 races on the flat and over hurdles.”

Castle Secret also produced a few efforts as a runner-up at Aintree, Haydock, and Cheltenham.

“My plans after racing are to enjoy every day as it comes,

“My health has not been the best in recent years, at 85 years of age, I’m lucky to say I’ve survived colon cancer, and as a child was one of the first in Wales to be given penicillin to treat gangrenous appendicitis.”

Dai Burchell has contributed massively to Welsh horse racing in his career and was honoured at Chepstow last Thursday.

Chepstow racecourse paid a fitting tribute to the trainer from Ebbw Vale by running the “Happy Retirement Dai Burchell Novices’ Hurdle” which was won by Fergal O’Brien trained Mahon Point.

Leopardstown Dornan Engineering Christmas Hurdle: Runner by runner guide

Abacadabras

Jockey: J W Kennedy

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 52F14-3

7yoB Gelding

OR: 157

Wgt: 11st 12lbs t

Won the grade one Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown and the grade one Aintree Hurdle last season. The latter was ahead of subsequent grade two winner Buzz, who won the Coral Hurdle at Ascot this season. In behind was Former Champion Hurdle winner, Buveur D’air and grade one winner over two miles, Silver Streak. Despite there being a sedate pace in the first half of the race, this is strong form. His trainer, Gordon Elliot, hopes that a step up to three miles will suit this horse’s strong travelling ability. He was last seen finishing 12 lengths 3^rd to a rampant Honeysuckle over 2^1/2 miles in the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse last month and his ability makes him competitive in most fields. He doesn’t tend to work hard once in front.

2. Commander Of Fleet

Jockey: B J Cooper

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 001-5F1

7yoB Gelding

OR: 152

Wgt: 11st 12lbs b

Was the runner up in the 2019 Albert Bartlett, 2 lengths behind eventual Gold Cup winner, Minella Indo. Last seen when victorious over three miles at Navan earlier this month, where Burning Victory was a distant 16^th. He carried top weight but with it was a handicap so this represents a step up. It was his 3^rd run this season and the other two were less successful. 5^th of six runners to 2019 Cesarewitch winner Stratum at Thurles and fell when two from home in a handicap last month. Wears blinkers again here.

3. Flooring Porter

Jockey: D E Mullins

Trainer: G P Cromwell

Form: 2111P-F

6yoB Gelding

OR: 164

Wgt: 11st 12lbs t

Winner of this race last season where Sire Du Berlais finished 6 lengths behind in 3^rd. Since winning the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, Flooring porter has failed to complete his next two starts. He was pulled up in the Punchestown Stayers’ Hurdle in April, behind eventual winner Klassical Dream. This came after some messy jumping and his stamina quickly emptied when approaching the straight. In his seasonal reappearance in the grade two Lismullen Hurdle at Navan, he guessed at the 2^nd last and fell when fighting for the lead. This came after a strong tendency to jump left throughout. Here he will Face Klassical dream again, but trainer Gavin Cromwell is hopeful that course form will count and reports that the champion is in good health.

4. Grand Roi

Jockey: D N Russell

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 1/3120-3

5yoB Gelding

OR: 147

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Finished 3^rd in the grade two Lismullen Hurdle over 2^1/2 miles in November behind eventual winner Darasso. He was head to head with Flooring Porter when his opponent fell. Sire Du Berlais finished 1^1/2 lengths ahead of this horse in 2^nd and will go again in this race. Last season Grand Roi moved from Nicky Henderson’s ownership and Seven Barrows to be trained by Gordon Elliott. His best result over hurdles came in the grade two Grant Thornton Hurdle at Limerick in December last year. He also picked up a respectable 2^nd place finish in a grade three contest. Both of these came over the distance of two miles. Although he showed some progression last season, he has never run over the three mile distance and Gordon Elliott has acknowledged that when talking to the Racing Post. He also hopes his charge will improve with his first run of the season under his belt.

5. Klassical Dream

Jockey: P Townend

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 11135/1-

7yoB Gelding

OR: 164

Wgt: 11st 12lbs h

Made an outstanding comeback, after 16 months away from the racecourse, when winning the grade one Ladbrokes Champion Hurdle in April. Flooring Porter pulled up and Ronald Pump could only finish 3^rd, 12 lengths behind the eventual winner. The change in distance and the application of a hood appeared to transform this horse, after finishing a disappointing last of five in the Matheson Hurdle at Leopardstown in December 2019. He won three grade ones at novice level over two miles. Mullins appeared to have got the best out of this horse again, but over three miles last time out. He comes into this race fresh, making his seasonal debut, which also might have been a factor in such an impressive victory. Connections are hopeful he can repeat most recent form. His Jockey, Paul Townend, also comes into the race with eight wins from 16 starts. Jockey and stable in form.

6. Mr Adjudicator

Jockey: J B Foley

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 28P171/

7yoB Gelding

OR: 154

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Hasn’t been seen on a racecourse in 879 days, where he won on the flat at Galway. At his best was a grade one winner as a juvenile. Also won a grade two ahead of smart grade one winner Bapaume in France in 2019. There is no clear explanation for the long absence. Klassical Dream, who also runs here, is proof a Mullins horse can come on well after a long period off the racecourse. Tornado Flyer’s heroics in the King George VI two days ago also tells us how well a Mullins outsider can do. However, Mullins has said it could be a tough ask for this runner.

7. Ronald Pump

Jockey: K M Donoghue

Trainer: Matthew J Smith

Form: F23-525

8yoCH Gelding

OR: 156

Wgt: 11st 12lbs t

Cheltenham Stayers’ Hurdle runner-up in 2020. Often puts in a brave effort, finishing in the places behind top class opposition. He has finished 2^nd in four grade one contests. Last seen finishing 15 lengths 5^th to Champ in the grade one Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot ten days ago. This came after a brave effort finishing 8 lengths 2^nd to unbeaten Honeysuckle, over the shorter distance of 2^1/2 miles. He was still 4^1/4 lengths ahead of Abacadabras and a mile ahead of Saldier in 5^th. Both are runners he will face again here. In that run he set a rapid pace from the front. Trainer Keith Donoghue stated that the blinkers made him too keen at Ascot so they have been removed this time around.

8. Saldier

Jockey: B Hayes

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 678-115

7yoB Gelding

OR: 162

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Last grade one victory was in 2019. Was kept busy over the summer when picking up a win on the flat and has already picked up a grade three over hurdles this season. This came at Tipperary where he finished 3 lengths ahead of previously mentioned Darasso. This form was reversed recently in the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle when finishing 5^th to winner Honeysuckle. He finished a long way behind Ronald Pump (2^nd), Abacadabras (3^rd) and 2^1/2 lengths behind Darasso (4^th). Mullins has reported that Saldier took a knock going down before that run however, so this form might not reflect accurately. His only run over three miles came a long way 8^th in the Ladbrokes Champion Stayers’ Hurdle in April where Klassical Dream cruised to victory. Mullins believes he could still be effective at this distance. Runs without cheekpieces this time.

9. Sams Profile

Jockey: A Coleman

Trainer: M F Morris

Form: 52/F31-0

7yoB Gelding

OR: 152

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Last seen finishing 10^th of 11 runners in a beginners chase at Galway in October. Form over hurdles reads more promising however, with two placing efforts at grade one as a novice. He also picked up a grade two over hurdles at Gowran Park in January, 16 lengths ahead of Darasso in 4^th, who appears a useful reference point here in the form. This run came over a distance of three miles on heavy going. A hood was also applied here for the first time but it has been taken off after the unsuccessful effort over fences. That victory came last season after he fell over fences at Thurles in November. He picked up a fractured rib which bruised his lungs. Somehow the injury went undetected and he actually ran WITH that injury nine days later, finishing very respectable 3^rd, 11 lengths behind eventual Cheltenham festival winner over fences Monkfish. Long recovered from the injury and soft ground conditions here should suit.

10. Sire Du Berlais

Jockey: M P Walsh

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 41/132-2

9yoB Gelding

OR: 160

Wgt: 11st 12lbs b t

Was runner-up in the Stayers’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham festival in March, just 3^1/4 lengths behind a brilliant Flooring Porter. Finished 3^rd in this race last year, again behind a victorious Flooring Porter. Was last seen 6 lengths 2^nd in the grade two Lismullen Hurdle behind Darasso at Navan in November. He won the Lismullen last season and the performance could be considered a relative step down compared to his usual form. It was his seasonal debut and he should be better for the run.

11. Burning Victory

Jockey: Rachael Blackmore

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 11/7-70

5yoBR Mare

OR: 143

Wgt: 11st 5lbs

The only mare in the race completes Willie Mullins’ four horse assault line-up. She won the grade one Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2020, a race most memorable after classy but erratic Goshen unseated rider when in a healthy lead, blundering at the last. Burning Victory has been kept busy during the summer, with a few runs on the level. She finished 7^th in a handicap hurdle at Galway in June, 6^1/2 lengths behind the winner Saldier, who also runs here. She then picked up a win in France and an impressive 2^nd place finish 1^1/2 lengths behind recent grade two winner over hurdles, Buzz. She “disappointed” ,according to Willie Mullins, in a big field in her seasonal reappearance over obstacles at Navan in December. The winner of that race was Commander of Fleet who runs here. Mullins is hopeful the smaller field will encourage a better run from her.

Ladbrokes King George VI Chase: Runner by runner guide

Asterion Forlonge

Jockey: B J Cooper

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: F4331-U

Wgt: 11-10lb t

7yoG Gelding

OR: 152

There are no reports that suggest Willie Mullins’ runner is worse for wear after unseating his jockey, Brian Cooper, in the John Durkan Memorial Chase earlier this month. His travelling ability saw him in the picture against eventual winner Allaho at Punchestown, before he got too low and blundered three fences from home. This is a mistake he has made a few times before, with two falls early last season after similar errors. When he finishes, he normally makes the places against top opposition. He finished 3^rd to Chantry House, who runs here, in the grade one Marsh Novice’s Chase at Cheltenham in March. He also finished a respectable 3^rd to Janidil at Fairyhouse in a grade one over 2^1/2 miles before claiming victory at Punchestown over the same distance that month. His trainer, Willie Mullins, also thinks this horse runs better right handed which shows in his previous three runs but he is stepping up to three miles or the first time.

2. Chantry House

Jockey: Nico De Boineville

Trainer: N J Henderson

Form: 13111-1

Wgt: 11-10lb

7yoBR Gelding

OR: 162

Last season’s grade one Marsh Novice’s Chase winner. Made his seasonal reappearance with a 37 length victory over The Big Breakaway at Sandown early last month. He also ended last season on a high at Aintree when winning the Grade one Betway Mildmay Novices’ Chase by 32 lengths when closest challenger, Espoir De Romay fell two fences from home. Both these efforts came over the 3 mile distance and the win at Aintree provided a good stamina test, with the previously mentioned Espoir De Romay setting a good pace throughout. Chantry House is five wins from six runs over fences and his trainer Nicky Henderson is happy with his preparation, saying he is sharp. He also said that despite the previous couple of runs they haven’t “taught” him to go 3 miles, but speed won’t be a problem in the King George VI. This is his first time mixing it with some of the more established names in the staying division, having been a novice last season.

3. Clan Des Obeaux

Jockey: Harry Cobden

Trainer: P F Nicholls

Form: 8/23211-

Wgt: 11-10lb p

9yoB Gelding

OR: 172

Two time former winner of the race in 2018 and 2019. Paul Nicholls’ runner underwent a wind op last season and didn’t finish outside the top three in five graded runs. He won the Betway Bowl by 26 lengths at Aintree and the Punchestown Gold Cup, ahead of two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Al Boum Photo. These two big wins came near the back end of last season after the application of cheekpieces, which appeared to benefit him greatly and he will wear them again at Kempton. The King George VI will be Clan Des Obeaux’s seasonal debut and Nicholls has stated that this horse and Frodon are “the two to beat”.

4. Frodon

Jockey: Bryony Frost

Trainer: P F Nicholls

Form: 14151-1

Wgt: 11-10lb t

9yoB Gelding

OR: 167

Winner of last year’s renewal and Cheltenham Gold Cup 5^th. This horse proved a massive problem for the field Boxing Day last year. He made all, but on the 2^nd lap had a tendency to jump slightly left. It didn’t hinder his chances because he corrected immediately after every obstacle. This also caused the horses in behind to follow suit, causing them to lose valuable ground and stamina with every jump. Clan Des Obeaux finished just over 8 lengths back in 3^rd, having been off the bridle before the final bend, Saint Calvados was just behind him in 4^th and Lostintranslation was pulled up. They all run again this year. Frodon’s seasonal debut saw him beat reigning Cheltenham Gold Cup champion Minella Indo by 5 lengths, when winning the Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal. Frodon’s Jockey, Bryony Frost, has also recorded a big grade one victory in the Tingle Creek at Sandown earlier this month.

5. Lostintranslation

Jockey: Brendan Powell

Trainer: C L Tizzard

Form: 3/3P5P-1

Wgt: 11-10lb t

9yoB Gelding

OR: 160

Earned his first win since 2019 in the grade two Chanelle Pharma 1965 Chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs last month. He had a 2^nd wind op prior to the run and ground conditions suited. He beat Dashel Drasher by 16 lengths who, although may have preferred softer going, had never lost at Ascot. In the last two renewals of this race however, Lostintranslation has been pulled up. in a Racing Post article after his seasonal reappearance, Joe Tizzard remained confident that the King George VI was the most suitable race for Lostintranslation and that he seemed reinvigorated by the recent operation. The yard are also much happier with his training performances after he was difficult to get a tune out of last season.

6. Minella Indo

Jockey: Rachael Blackmore

Trainer: H de Bromhead

Form: 11F41-3

Wgt: 11-10 p¹

8yoB Gelding

OR: 175

The reigning Cheltenham Gold Cup champion. Henry de Bromhead’s charge was beaten by 5 lengths after a brave front-running effort by Frodon in the Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal in late October. Bryony measured the fractions well and had this horse struggling after the 2^nd last fence. This run was respectable and could make for great preparation, with de Bromhead confident he will be better after the run. This run also reversed the Gold Cup form, as Frodon finished 30 lengths behind this horse in 5^th. His jockey, Rachael Blackmore, won BBC’s World Sport Star award last week and will be looking to add to her incredible achievements in the Aintree Grand National and at Cheltenham earlier this year. Minella Indo is bidding to become the first Irish-trained winner of the race since Kicking King in 2005, who also did it after winning the Gold Cup earlier that year. Wears cheekpieces for the first time here.

7. Mister Fisher

Jockey: Sean Bowen

Trainer: N J Henderson

Form: 4/P1PU2

Wgt: 11-10lb

7yoB Gelding

OR: 162

Last seen in the grade two Oaksey Chase, losing by a neck to a very game Frodon. This horse appeared to be getting the better of the reigning King George VI champion Frodon, who fought back winning by a neck after a stiff uphill finish. This horse’s highest achievement so far over fences came at Cheltenhem when winning a grade two chase over 2^1/2 miles. His best run over 3 miles was that previously mentioned effort against Frodon and the plan has always been to run him over 3 miles this season. Would prefer good ground.

8. Saint Calvados

Jockey: Gavin Sheehan

Trainer: P F Nicholls

Form: 1422/4U-

Wgt: 11-10lb t¹

8yoB Gelding

OR: 162

Has moved stables to Ditcheat with Paul Nicholls and has undergone a wind op. Last year finished 4^th, over 8 lengths behind eventual winner Frodon. his best win came in the grade two Betway Kingmaker Novices’ Chase in February 2018. This year the field has strengthened with the addition of the Gold Cup winner. He wears a tongue tie for the first time here and Nicholls has described him as a “lively outsider”. At his best he finished 2^nd by a neck to Min in the 2020 Ryanair over 2^1/2 miles, with A Plus Tard and Frodon both finishing behind him.

9. Tornado Flyer

Jockey: D E Mullins

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 22543-5

Wgt: 11-10lb

8yoB Gelding

OR: 161

Last seen finishing 5^th in the grade one John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase earlier this month. Asterion Ferlonge unseated rider three fences out. Hasn’t won a race since 2019 and this is his first time running 3 miles since last year’s renewal of the grade one Savills Chase, where he also finished a distant 5^th. In other contests ran over 2^1/2 miles he has shown late progress in races so a step up to 3 miles is thought to suit him.