20 Dec 2008
2:45 ASCOT
THE LADBROKE (A HANDICAP HURDLE) (LISTED RACE) (CLASS 1) (4yo+,0-150) Winner £84,495 BBC1
Going: GD-SFT. Number of runners: 21. Distance 2m
1 112- ASHKAZAR 4 11-12 D E Pipe 38 Timmy Murphy 147 136 148 b g Sadler΄s Wells (USA) Asharna (IRE) (Darshaan)One of last season΄s leading juvenile hurdlers, far too good for older rivals given a fine front-running ride in the Imperial Cup and foiled only by Crack Away Jack at Cheltenham three days later, form which has been boosted by the winner (defied 16lb rise on reappearance); 12lb hike not probitive, especially with likelihood of more to come, and the Pipes have landed this prize three times in last four years.
2 10-2 AIGLE D΄OR 5 11-11 N J Henderson 50 A P McCoy 146 155 155 b g Halling (USA) Epistole (IRE) (Alzao (USA))Very useful middle-distance stayer in France in 2006 and looked a smart recruit to hurdling last season, despite flopping final outing; put that behind him when edged out by Numide in the Greatwood and should be more to come but arguable he needs testingconditions to be fully effective at 2m.
3 0-43 FIVE DREAM 4 11-10 P F Nicholls 68 Harry Skelton(5) 145 123 152 b g Take Risks (FR) Jenny Pous (FR) (Kaid Pous (FR))Acquitted himself very well against senior handicappers in his first season, scoring at Cheltenham and Sandown, and latest close third to progressive pair on latter course represented another step forward; up another 3lb in tougher race but not to be underestimated.
4 04-2 KHYBER KIM 6 11-10 N A Twiston-Davies 47 P J Brennan 145 153 154 b g Mujahid (USA) Jungle Rose (Shirley Heights)Lightly raced, Flat and hurdles; not build on debut promise when with Nicky Henderson as a novice last season and demonstrated again that he goes particularly well fresh at Newbury last month, travelling strongly but finding less than anticipated (rider briefly lost iron); 5lb rise demands another step up and stable not in such good form now.
5 00-1 SENTRY DUTY 6 11-9 N J Henderson 50 B J Geraghty 144 150 149 b g Kahyasi Standing Around (FR) (Garde Royale)Very useful if inconsistent dual-purpose performer who did not go on after sparkling hurdling debut last season but returned from a break better than ever with an impressive C&D win last month; up 10lb but similar display should ensure that he is thereabouts again; possibly best on good but won on much softer on Flat in France.
6 2-03 GROUP CAPTAIN 6 11-7 H J Collingridge 0 R J Killoran(5) 142 150 150 b g Dr Fong (USA) Alusha (Soviet Star (USA))Below par on the Flat this year but matched his best hurdling form when third behind unexposed pair over C&D on reappearance; should still be competitive off this mark, especially with conditional claiming 5lb, and likely contender.
7 1-12 NOBLE ALAN 5 11-5 N G Richards 50 D J Condon 140 150 152 gr g King΄s Theatre (IRE) Nirvavita (FR) (Highest Honor (FR))Lightly raced and progressive on good to firm/good to soft, finishing clear second behind unexposed type in competitive event at Cheltenham in October on handicap debut; 6lb rise fair and unlikely we have seen best of him.
8 60-4 ALSADAA 5 11-4 Mrs L J Mongan 100 Mr B J Toomey(7) 139 154 151 b g Kingmambo (USA) Aljawza (USA) (Riverman (USA))Front-runner who emphasised his liking for the track with a fine fourth behind Sentry Duty off this mark last month and his burden eased by 7lb claiming amateur (who won on him on the Flat here in September), but
ideally served by good/good to firm and ground has to be a concern.
9 -2145 SQUADRON 4 11-2 A King 74 Robert Thornton 137 154 155 b g Sakhee (USA) Machaera (Machiavellian (USA))Slightly disappointing he did not get closer to Khyber Kim at Newbury but closely matched with Numide and Aigle D΄Or on Cheltenham form; entitled to be thereabouts but may be vulnerable to improvers off this mark.
10 2P/4 CUAN NA GRAI 7 11-2 Paul Nolan 71 P W Flood 137 85 146 b g Erins Isle Volnost (USA) (Lyphard (USA))Struck a purple patch in summer of 2006, his victory in the Galway Hurdle being his fourth in a row (all from the front); seemingly not the easiest to train since but signs of reviving on ground (heavy) that was probably not ideal at Tipperary in Octoberon second outing after 16 months off; stronger case to be made for others.
11 -63P SONGE 4 11-2 C E Longsdon 71 Tom Siddall 137 115 151 b g Hernando (FR) Sierra (FR) (Anabaa (USA))Peaked in first season hurdling with highly creditable fourth in Triumph; something to find with Squadron on Chepstow running in October and question to answer after pulling up on recent second attempt over fences (bled from nose).
12 1-B0 MAMLOOK 4 11-0 D E Pipe 38 Tom Scudamore 135 127 145 br g Key Of Luck (USA) Cradle Brief (IRE) (Brief Truce (USA))6lb higher than when winning a well-contested juvenile handicap hurdle here in April and fine efforts at the Royal meeting and in the Cesarewitch suggested he was still on the upgrade; possibly found testing ground against him in Greatwood on return to hurdling and not ruled out.
13 9132 SKY HALL 5 10-13b Noel Meade 42 L McNiff(7) 134 132 151 b g Saddlers΄ Hall (IRE) Neath Native Sky (IRE) (Be My Native (USA))Improved of late in 2m/2m4f handicaps in Ireland, successful for this conditional at Naas in October and clear second behind unexposed type returned to this trip at Fairyhouse most recently; that looks solid form and he must come into calculations.
14 40-1 NUMIDE 5 10-11 G L Moore 57 Jamie Moore 132 153 153 b g Highest Honor (FR) Numidie (FR) (Baillamont (USA))Smart at his best on the Flat and confirmed he is going the right way over hurdles when just too strong for Aigle D΄Or (allowed 2lb for a head) in Greatwood; trainer concerned drying conditions will not suit so well but otherwise a leading contender.
15 40-1 TAKE THE BREEZE 5 10-9 P F Nicholls 68 R Walsh 130 145 148 gr g Take Risks (FR) Reine Breeze (FR) (Phantom Breeze)0-30 on Flat in France, but 2-6 over hurdles; reportedly hit hard by gelding operation in second half of last year and progressive in Britain, comeback win at Sandown representing a step forward; 8lb rise demands more in tougher race but open to further improvement.
16 7-11 IRISH LEGEND 8 10-9 C Roberts 0 Jack Doyle(3) 130 144 145 b g Sadler΄s Wells (USA) Wedding Bouquet (Kings Lake (USA))Raced mainly at about 2m4f latterly but proved effectiveness at shorter when winning at Bangor (2m1f) in October, albeit coming under pressure earlier than usual (usually travels strongly), and latest Chepstow victory looks a career-best; asked a stifferquestion now and could find things happening a bit quickly.
17 -017 EUROPEAN DREAM 5 10-8b1 R C Guest 0 P Aspell 129 106 154 br g Kalanisi (IRE) Tereed Elhawa (Cadeaux Genereux)Took advantage of favourable mark at Wetherby last month but held by Five Dream on latest running at Sandown and one of the more exposed types; usual cheekpieces replaced by blinkers.
18 2319 LEAMINGTON LAD 5 10-7b N A Twiston-Davies 47 T Molloy(5) 128 146 149 gr g Beckett (IRE) Nicea (IRE) (Dominion)Improved since being fitted with blinkers in the summer, best effort when winning competitive handicap at Cheltenham in October, but limitations apparently exposed when upped in class behind Sentry Duty here last time.
19 14-9 MOURNE RAMBLER 6 10-7 A J Martin 40 R C Colgan(3) 128 132 146 b g Anshan Bettyhill (Ardross)Won only start in bumpers and is two from six over hurdles; novice form last term seems to leave something to be desired and well held on handicap debut at Galway in October but an unexposed type from highly respected yard; interesting if there is a market move.
20 2-71 BELCANTISTA 6 10-6 P J Hobbs 68 T J O΄Brien 127 107 152 b g Unfuwain (USA) Opera Prima (USA) (Alleged (USA))Multiple middle-distance winner on Flat in French Provinces and sound efforts to be placed over hurdles at Auteuil, including at Listed level, prior to running out an easy winner of Exeter novice event last month on first outing for new yard; bought since by J P McManus and subject of an ante-post gamble but McCoy partners Aigle D΄Or.
21 11-3 PRINCE TAIME 5 10-6 P J Hobbs 68 Richard Johnson 127 151 153 b g Astarabad (USA) Maite (FR) (Valdingran (FR))Suffered first defeat but did well for one who is relatively inexperienced when coming from well back to be third at Newbury; closely weighted with Khyber Kim on that evidence and unlikely we have seen the best of him.
SP% Recommended SP% 131.5
Few can be ruled out in a hot race that is likely to be run at hot pace. ASHKAZAR, with Champion Hurdle ambitions, may be able to give weight all round and provide the Pipe stable with its fourth winner of the race in five years. The lightly weighted Hobbs pair Prince Taime and Belcantista are feared most.[FC]
YEAR WINNER AGE WGT SP TRAINER JOCKEY RPR
2007 Jack The Giant 5 11-0 9/4F N J Henderson Mick Fitzgerald 137
2006 Acambo 5 11-9 7/1 D E Pipe Timmy Murphy 149
2006 Desert Air 7 10-9 25/1 M C Pipe Tom Scudamore 141
2005 Tamarinbleu 5 10-11 14/1 M C Pipe A P McCoy 144
2003 Thesis 5 11-2 33/1 Miss Venetia Williams Brian Crowley 145
2002 Chauvinist 7 10-0 15/2 N J Henderson N Williamson 145
2001 Marble Arch 5 10-11 7/1 H Morrison N Williamson 155
20 Dec 2008
1:25 HAYDOCK
J MALLINSON (ORMSKIRK) LTD "FIXED BRUSH" HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 3) (4yo+,0-125) Winner £8,131 RUK
Going: SOFT. Number of runners: 12. Distance 2m
1 6-21 MANHATTAN BOY 6 11-12 A M Crow 0 Mr G Crow(7) 123 121 ch g Monsun (GER) Manhattan Girl (USA) (Vice Regent (CAN))Fairly useful on his day in two campaigns for Philip Hobbs and won over fences two of last four outings; acts on soft but more exposed than some of these and 10lb rise since latest start (June) makes this look a tough debut for new stable.
2 -3602 NOTICEABLE 4 11-8b1 A King 74 Wayne Hutchinson 119 116 123 b g Night Shift (USA) Nawaji (USA) (Trempolino (USA))Won a Flat maiden but failure to put head in front where it matters since, including in six starts for this yard, is offputting and resort to first-time headgear for this seems to confirm that he΄s not been displaying the best attitude; last month΄s Leicester second probably his best hurdles form, but others preferred for the win.
3 31-3 EDAS 6 11-7 J J Quinn 50 R P Flint(7) 118 77 124 b h Celtic Swing Eden (IRE) (Polish Precedent (USA))Won novice at Market Rasen in August 2007 and returned to hurdles (after a few respectable efforts on Flat this year) with good third in handicap at Wetherby last month; lightly raced in this sphere, so could improve and headlining claiming jockey booked; seemed to act on heavy on Flat.
4 5F-5 RICH LORD 4 11-7 Ferdy Murphy 59 G Lee 118 111 120 b g Zamindar (USA) Al Corniche (IRE) (Bluebird (USA))Won at Catterick (2m, soft) in February; not discredited in defeat since and was trying 2m6f on reappearance, but has to show something new to defy this handicap mark.
5 /1-1 ISSAQUAH 6 11-6 J M Jefferson 46 James Halliday(10) 117 105 128 b m Supreme Leader Our Sioux (IRE) (Jolly Jake (NZ))Won couple of bumpers two seasons back and struck on hurdling debut in October 2007; absent over 13 months but co-favourite when returning under James Halliday in 18-runner handicap at Kelso (2m2f, soft) four weeks ago and won with huge ease; up 15lb buteven new mark probably underestimates her and this race is not the most competitive; big chance.
6 44-4 HELLO NOD 4 11-5 Miss J A Camacho 0 R P McLernon(7) 116 117 126 b g Polish Precedent (USA) Nordan Raider (Domynsky)Successful hurdling debut last term before going off the boil; back with close fourth of 11 at Leicester (2m, soft) on seasonal/handicap debut, just behind Noticeable, and shaped as if may well build on that; each-way claims.
7 -897 ELA RE 9 11-4 Mrs S J Smith 55 Tjade Collier(3) 115 125 ch g Sabrehill (USA) Lucia Tarditi (FR) (Crystal Glitters (USA))Can be tricky at the start but very able on his day and won twice as chaser in the spring; hurdles mark is 15lb lower than chase rating but well held all three starts this season, including once over hurdles when behind Edas at Wetherby.
8 -231 PROSECCO 6 10-10 Miss Lucinda V Russell 71 Peter Buchanan 107 123 123 b g Perpendicular Bay Gale (IRE) (Abednego)Improvement in novice events this autumn preceded his game win when co-favourite in 13-runner handicap at Ayr (2m, good to soft) 26 days ago; 7lb rise demands further progress.
9 -552 MISS PROSS 8 10-9 T D Walford 100 Robert Walford 106 125 br m Bob΄s Return (IRE) Lucy Manette (Final Straw)Consistent mare, as good as ever when second over fences at Wetherby (2m, soft) two weeks ago; chase mark is 9lb higher than this hurdles rating but evidence over several seasons is that she΄s simply not so good in this sphere, so probably just a place option.
10 /532- BOBBY DONALD 6 10-6 R T Phillips 67 Gerard Tumelty(3) 103 123 127 b g Lord Americo River Rescue (Over The River (FR))2006 maiden point winner; went hurdling later that year and still no win; rounded off last term with two placed efforts on testing ground over 2m and 2m5f, the best form of his career, but this race looks a bit tougher and needs to improve again.
11 -25P PEN GWEN 5 10-3p Mrs K Walton 50 Wilson Renwick 100 126 b g Le Balafre (FR) Dans Dro (FR) (Spoleto)Ex-French gelding (won a chase on soft) who failed to win for Nigel Twiston-Davies and needed first-time headgear to return to form when second at Exeter in May; two further handicap chases recently for current yard were a lot less encouraging.
12 -570 REMAINDER 5 10-0 I McMath 0 W T Kennedy 97 38 124 ch g Mark Of Esteem (IRE) Stay Behind (Elmaamul (USA))Defied 2lb higher mark at Carlisle in November 2007 but a decling force later last season and same story since a respectable reappearance this November; may need the ground to dry out, but either way not hard to turn elsewhere.
SP% Recommended SP% 118
ISSAQUAH (nap) has leapt up the weights for her win at Kelso but was massively impressive that day and looks easily the most attractive option in this line-up, which does not contain anything else of that sort of promise. Noticeable is due the try in headgear, Prosecco has improved and a few of the others are well treated on chasing form.[RA]
20 Dec 2008
1:40 ASCOT
Boylesports.com International (A Hurdle Race) Grade 2(Class 1) (4yo+) 2m Good To Soft 9 hdles
£114,020.00, £42,780.00, £21,420.00, £10,680.00, £5,360.00
1 Binocular (FR) SP EvensF
Enrique - Bleu Ciel Et Blanc (FR) (Pistolet Bleu) 4 11-4 N J Henderson
A P McCoy 152 154 173
Held up in last pair, headway after 6th, chased leader after 3 out, led soon after 2 out, clear last, pushed out, impressive
2 4½ Celestial Halo (IRE) SP 16/1
Galileo (IRE) - Pay The Bank (High Top) 4 11-4 t P F Nicholls
R Walsh 150 149 166
Led and soon clear, 10 lengths clear 5th, ridden after 3 out, headed soon after 2 out, no chance with winner after, kept on
3 12 Chomba Womba (IRE) SP 11/2
Fourstars Allstar (USA) - Miss Muppet (IRE) (Supreme Leader) 7 11-1 N J Henderson
B J Geraghty 156 131 152
Chased leading pair, ridden and struggling 3 out, well beaten next, stayed on to go modest 3rd again last
4 1Ό Katchit (IRE) SP 7/1
Kalanisi (IRE) - Miracle (Ezzoud) 5 11-8 A King
Robert Thornton 166 137 159
Chased clear leader, ridden 6th, lost 2nd before next, weakened after 3 out, well beaten 2 out
5 3 Crack Away Jack SP 11/4
Gold Away (IRE) - Jolly Harbour (Rudimentary) 4 11-2 Miss E C Lavelle
Jack Doyle 158 127 151
Held up in last pair, headway to chase clear leader before 3 out, ridden after 3 out, soon struggling, 3rd and well held when mistake 2 out, lost 2 places before last
5 ran TIME 3m 46.20s (slow by 1.20s) Total SP 110%
1st OWNER: John P McManus BRED: Elie Lellouche TRAINER: N J Henderson
2nd OWNER: The Stewart Family
3rd OWNER: Mr & Mrs R Kelvin Hughes
TOTE WIN £2.00 PL £1.40, £2.80; Ex £14.30; CSF £15.29
A very different affair to the one that had been washed away at Cheltenham seven days previously, and minus three Irish challengers, including Harchibald and Solwhit, as well as Khyber Kim. Although the small field and shorter trip arguably rendered it of somewhat less significance as a Champion Hurdle trial, it provided a welcome opportunity to have another look at last year's Champion Hurdle winner and also three outstanding younger prospects, one of them already clear favourite for March despite having beaten little on his reappearance.
A tactical race was the big worry, but that criticism could not levelled against it after last year's Triumph winner, Celestial Halo, set off at a brisk pace and rounded Swinley Bottom some 10 lengths clear ofthe other four, who were tightly grouped. The order was still much the same going to three out, and although Celestial Halo's lead was much reduced, he was still going well.
BINOCULAR, still in last, rather snatched at that flight, but he then quickly cruised past the three he had been racing with and turned for home full of running, with Celestial Halo nicely in his sights. Upsides two out, McCoy had still yet to move on the winner, but Binocular settled the issue in strides and was clear at the last. He didn't extend his advantage on the run-in, but with McCoy only nudging him out and never picking up his stick, there was surely plenty left if required.
It was no surprise, after this deeply impressive win, to see Binocular's Champion Hurdle odds slashed to around the 6-4 mark. Those odds are short enough with the race nearly three months away, but he is far from certain to run again in the meantime, so they are unlikely to get any bigger, and he will clearly take a huge amount of beating. Theonly slight negative was the time, which was only fractionally quicker than that recorded by Medermit in the Grade 2 novice 24 hours earlier, when the ground was theoretically a shade slower. That can equally be seen as a positive for Medermit, though.
Celestial Halo was obliged to make the running, and Walsh did not hang around. He was soon clear and enjoyed the run of the race, as he was left alone until going to two out. He was beaten fair and square by Binocular, as he had been at Aintree, and although he is entitled to come on for this first run of the year, it's hard to imagine his turning the tables in March. That said, it was a cracking first run of the season and much-improved form. He finished well clear of the rest, each of whom had a much better chance on the figures. All in all, a highly encouraging return.
Chomba Womba came here at the top of her form. But over this shorter trip, she was outpaced three out and just plugged on for a remote, though respectable, third. Connections will have another go at getting her in foal again in the spring.
The reigning champion Katchit would have been seen to better advantage at Cheltenham, but the overriding impression here was that this former great enthusiast has become a bit lazy, which evidently reflects the way he has been working at home. He certainly is not one to write off yet, and Alan King is convinced he can have him better in March, although the trainer wasn't suggesting he had enough tricks up his sleeve to make up the deficit with Binocular. It wasn't mentioned, but it would be interesting to see him tried in headgear on the big day.
Crack Away Jack, beaten by Chomba Womba here last time after a mistake two out, to some extent owed his prominence in the Champion Hurdle market to hype and liabilities. Going to two out, he looked set to finish third, but his effort petered out. He is better than this bare form and it would be no surprise to see him freshened up now and sent to Cheltenham without another race. He lookedso good there in the Fred Winter that he might still have place possibilities in the big race. [GD]
20 Dec 2008
2:10 ASCOT
BGC Long Walk Hurdle Grade 1(Class 1) (4yo+) 3m1f Good To Soft 14 hdles
£56,330.00, £21,220.00, £10,620.00, £5,310.00, £2,660.00, £1,330.00, £660.00, £340.00
1 Punchestowns (FR) SP 3/1F
Morespeed - History (FR) (Alesso) 5 11-7 N J Henderson
B J Geraghty 160 132 172
Held up in midfield, pecked 3rd, mistake 7th, joined leader going well 3 out, led and not fluent next, soon clear, impressive
2 11 Duc De Regniere (FR) SP 5/1
Rajpoute (FR) - Gladys De Richerie (FR) (Le Pontet) 6 11-7 N J Henderson
A P McCoy 159 123 160
Held up in midfield, mistake 9th, headway 11th, chased leaders and ridden before 2 out, chased winner between last 2, no impression, held on for 2nd towards finish
3 ½ Mobaasher (USA) SP 8/1
Rahy (USA) - Balistroika (USA) (Nijinsky) 5 11-7 t P F Nicholls
R Walsh 157 123 162
Held up in rear, headway when hampered and lost place 11th, headway after 3 out, ridden and kept on from 2 out, pressing for 2nd towards finish, no chance with winner
4 6 Blazing Bailey SP 4/1
Mister Baileys - Wannaplantatree (Niniski) 6 11-7 A King
Robert Thornton 163 119 156
In touch, mistake and reminder 6th, headway to chase leader 10th, led narrowly 3 out, ridden and headed next, soon outpaced by winner, weakened before last
5 16 Pettifour (IRE) SP 7/1
Supreme Leader - Queen Of Natives (IRE) (Be My Native) 6 11-7 N A Twiston-Davies
P J Brennan 160 106 142
Raced in midfield, mistake 1st, ridden after 10th, weakened under pressure after 3 out
6 2 Lough Derg (FR) SP 14/1
Apple Tree (FR) - Asturias (FR) (Pistolet Bleu) 8 11-7 v D E Pipe
Tom Scudamore 152 105 139
Led and soon clear headed and driven 3 out, weakened before 2 out
7 13 Atamane (GER) SP 33/1
Winged Love (IRE) - Adjani (Surumu) 5 11-7 Mario Hofer
Jamie Moore 144 94 130
Took keen hold, chased leader until 2nd and again 8th until 10th, ridden and weakened quickly after 3 out, no chance when mistake 2 out
8 4 Serabad (FR) SP 20/1
Priolo (USA) - Serasia (FR) (Linamix) 4 11-7 p P Bowen
Christian Williams 146 91 123
Held up in rear, headway before 3 out, ridden and beaten after 3 out
9 35 Hills Of Aran SP 50/1
Sadler's Wells (USA) - Danefair (Danehill) 6 11-7 W K Goldsworthy
Richard Johnson 148 63 92
Always towards rear, lost touch quickly 3 out, tailed off
PU One Gulp SP 12/1
Hernando (FR) - Elaine Tully (IRE) (Persian Bold) 5 11-0 P R Webber
Dominic Elsworth 149
Raced wide, chased leader 2nd until 8th, pulled up quickly after next, dismounted
F Elusive Dream SP 14/1
Rainbow Quest (USA) - Dance A Dream (Sadler's Wells) 7 11-7 t P F Nicholls
Sam Thomas 158
Held up towards rear, headway and 6th when fell 11th
11 ran TIME 5m 57.40s (slow by 8.40s) Total SP 115%
1st OWNER: Mrs Judy Wilson BRED: Gerard Ferte TRAINER: N J Henderson
2nd OWNER: Sir Peter & Lady Gibbings
3rd OWNER: Seasons Holidays
With Inglis Drever looking unlikely to return, the staying hurdle division looked wide open prior to this, but that has all changed now because this was the moment PUNCHESTOWNS announced himself the heir apparent.
Always extremely highly regarded by connections, he had created a big impression when hosing up in a handicap at Cheltenham last month, but he had a bit to prove stepping into Grade 1 company for the first time, and tackling this trip for the first time.
Both questions were answered emphatically as Barry Geraghty sat motionless on the lightly raced six-year-old on the turn for home. His mount was the only one still on the bridle, and after a couple of peaks over the shoulder, the jockey said go. Although Punchestowns wasn't entirely fluent at the final two hurdles, the further they went, the further he drew clear of his stablemate, and he absolutely thrived over this longer trip.
He is now, unsurprisingly, all the rage for the World Hurdle in March, as short as 6-4 with Coral, although VC have taken a more cautious view, making him 5-2 joint-favourite with Kasbah Bliss. Given connections think Punchestowns is going to keep on improving, it's hard to argue that come March, if all is well with him, he's going to be awfully tough to beat, and he could be something special.
Duc De Regniere had looked good in winning the Grade 2 Long Walk Hurdle at Newbury last time and he confirmed the form with Mobaasher, although the latter, on 4lb better terms here, closed the gap to justhalf a length and may even have grabbed second had he not been hampered at the 11th flight. Duc De Regniere's connections would now like to drop him back in trip but they don't have any specific races in mind.
Blazing Bailey is becoming increasingly difficult to predict despite his obvious talents. In front three out, he folded pretty tamely after the second-last and it's hard to have any confidence in him at the moment.
The rest were a long way back, but Elusive Dream was creeping right into contention, still travelling well, when crashing out at the fourth-last. [GB]
20 Dec 2008
2:45 ASCOT
The Ladbroke (A Handicap Hurdle) (Listed Race)(Class 1) (0-150, 4yo+) 2m Good To Soft 9 hdles
£84,495.00, £31,830.00, £15,930.00, £7,965.00, £3,990.00, £1,995.00, £990.00, £510.00
1 Sentry Duty (FR) SP 12/1
Kahyasi - Standing Around (FR) (Garde Royale) 6 11-9 N J Henderson
B J Geraghty 144 154 153
Held up in midfield of main group, headway before 3 out, chased leaders 2 out, led between last 2, hard pressed but still going well when left clear last, ridden out
2 1Ό Belcantista (FR) SP 10/1
Unfuwain (USA) - Opera Prima (USA) (Alleged) 6 10-6 P J Hobbs
T J O'Brien 127 136 135
Prominent in main group, closed on leaders after 3 out, every chance between last 2, kept on same pace under pressure flat
3 ½ Songe (FR) SP 66/1
Hernando (FR) - Sierra (FR) (Anabaa) 4 11-2 C E Longsdon
Tom Siddall 137 145 144
Took keen hold, held up in midfield of main group, ridden and headway before 2 out, stayed on well under pressure to chase leaders last, kept on flat
4 5 Numide (FR) SP 12/1
Highest Honor (FR) - Numidie (FR) (Baillamont) 5 10-11 G L Moore
Jamie Moore 132 134 141
Held up well behind, still plenty to do before 3 out, good headway after 3 out, driven to challenge before last, blundered badly last, not recover
5 1 Group Captain SP 25/1
Dr Fong (USA) - Alusha (Soviet Star) 6 11-2 H J Collingridge
R J Killoran (5) 142 143 144
Took keen hold, in touch in main group, closed and ridden after 3 out, plugged on under pressure from 2 out, not pace to challenge leaders
6 2Ύ Mamlook (IRE) SP 16/1
Key Of Luck (USA) - Cradle Brief (IRE) (Brief Truce) 4 11-0 D E Pipe
Tom Scudamore 135 133 134
Held up in midfield of main group, pushed along after 5th, headway 3 out, chased leader and driven before 2 out, one pace from 2 out
7 ½ Cuan Na Grai (IRE) SP 25/1
Erins Isle - Volnost (USA) (Lyphard) 7 11-2 Paul Nolan
P W Flood 137 134 137
Led and soon well clear with one rival, headed 3 out, soon led again, ridden just before 2 out, headed between last 2, weakened last
8 2Ύ Take The Breeze (FR) SP 14/1
Take Risks (FR) - Reine Breeze (FR) (Phantom Breeze) 5 10-9 P F Nicholls
R Walsh 130 124 127
Held up in midfield of main group, headway after 5th, chased leaders after 3 out, ridden and weakened quickly 2 out
9 1Ύ Prince Taime (FR) SP 8/1
Astarabad (USA) - Maite (FR) (Valdingran) 5 10-6 P J Hobbs
Richard Johnson 127 119 122
Held up well behind, ridden after 3 out, kept on under pressure from 2 out, never going pace to reach leaders
10 ½ Irish Legend (IRE) SP 40/1
Sadler's Wells (USA) - Wedding Bouquet (Kings Lake) 8 10-6 C Roberts
Jack Doyle (3) 130 121 126
Prominent in main group, closed 3 out, ridden and unable to quicken before 2 out, beaten when hampered 2 out
11 2 Khyber Kim SP 14/1
Mujahid (USA) - Jungle Rose (Shirley Heights) 6 11-10 N A Twiston-Davies
P J Brennan 145 134 139
Held up in rear, slightly hampered and ridden 3 out, never near leaders
12 nse Aigle D'Or SP 5/1
Halling (USA) - Epistole (IRE) (Alzao) 5 11-11 N J Henderson
A P McCoy 146 135 142
In touch in main group, ridden after 3 out, well beaten next
13 ½ European Dream (IRE) SP 40/1
Kalanisi (IRE) - Tereed Elhawa (Cadeaux Genereux) 5 10-8 b1 R C Guest
P Aspell 129 117 121
Took keen hold, held up towards rear of main group, effort and ridden afetr 3 out, no progress before 2 out
14 1Ύ Mourne Rambler (IRE) SP 40/1
Anshan - Bettyhill (Ardross) 6 10-4 A J Martin
R C Colgan (3) 128 114 119
Took keen hold, held up towards rear, never troubled leaders
15 13 Noble Alan (GER) SP 14/1
King's Theatre (IRE) - Nirvavita (FR) (Highest Honor) 5 11-5 N G Richards
D J Condon 140 110 119
Took keen hold, held up towards rear, lost touch after 3 out, eaesd after next
16 4 Alsadaa (USA) SP 33/1
Kingmambo (USA) - Aljawza (USA) (Riverman) 5 10-11 Mrs L J Mongan
Mr B J Toomey (7) 139 104 114
Clear with leader, led and hit 3 out, soon ridden and headed, weakened quickly before 2 out
17 7 Ashkazar (FR) SP 4/1F
Sadler's Wells (USA) - Asharna (IRE) (Darshaan) 4 11-12 D E Pipe
Timmy Murphy 147 104 139
Prominent in main group, closed after 3 out, pressing leaders 2 out, beaten and eased before last, virtually pulled up after last
UR Leamington Lad (IRE) SP 100/1
Beckett (IRE) - Nicea (IRE) (Dominion) 5 10-2 b N A Twiston-Davies
T Molloy (5) 128 126
Led main group chasing leading pair until after 5th, stayed prominent in main group until weakened after 3 out, beaten when blundered badly and unseated rider 2 out
BD Five Dream (FR) SP 20/1
Take Risks (FR) - Jenny Pous (FR) (Kaid Pous) 4 11-5 P F Nicholls
Harry Skelton (5) 145
Held up towards rear until brought down 3 out
PU Squadron SP 25/1
Sakhee (USA) - Machaera (Machiavellian) 4 11-2 A King
Robert Thornton 137
In midfield of main group, ridden after 5th, well behind and hit 3 out, pulled up 2 out
F Sky Hall (IRE) SP 20/1
Saddlers' Hall (IRE) - Neath Native Sky (IRE) (Be My Native) 5 10-6 b Noel Meade
L McNiff (7) 134
Held up in midfield of main group, headway 6th, prominent in main group and going well when fell 3 out
21 ran TIME 3m 47.00s (slow by 2.00s) Total SP 131%
1st OWNER: Peter Spiller BRED: Peter Spiller And Mme Henri Devin TRAINER: N J Henderson
2nd OWNER: John P McManus
3rd OWNER: Alan Halsall
TOTE toteswinger: 1&2 £150.00, 1&3 £525.30, 2&3 £525.30. WIN £15.00 PL £3.10, £3.30, £18.30, £3.80; Ex £201.30; CSF £118.93; TRICAST £7537.39Pool: £49,553.49 - 1.40 winning units TRIFECTA £26192.50 Pool: £49,553.49 - 1.40 winning units
An increased safety limit made this more competitive than ever, and adding spice to what was a fascinating handicap in its own right was the return to action of last year's Imperial Cup winner and Fred Winter second Ashkazar, whom many professionals regarded as the best outsider for the Champion Hurdle. In the event, Ashkazar was almost pulled up, but he ran well to a point and was still in with a chance two out, so considering his stable is very in and out at present, he certainly isn't one to writeoff yet.
With Cuan Na Grai and last year's second Alsadaa forcing the pace, clear of the rest, there was no hanging around, and last month's course-and-distance winner SENTRY DUTY came through in eye-catching style from midfield to scorein a time only fractionally slower than the Boylesports winner Binocular. He was 10lb higher here than last time and will go up again, but he remains progressive and is sure to be among the favourites for the Totesport Trophy, which is his next target.
Belcantista, a good novice winner at Exeter on his debut in this country, was the ante-post gamble of the race, and he went down fighting on this switch to handicap company (had contested handicaps when trained in France). His second here off 127 confirms him a useful novice with scope for more improvement, but he is not yet up to the level required for the Supreme Novices', and quotes for that race look a bit premature.
Last season's Triumph fourth, Songe, was returning to hurdles after bursting a blood vessel in a novice chase last time. He was well suited by the fast pace and came through to threaten briefly on the flat. This was much more like it, and he is another heading for the Totesport.
Numide was unlucky not to finish second,at worst, because he had come from way off the pace to press the winner hard when he blundered his chance away at the last. He was no more than half a length down, and although he wasn't going quite so well, he was in the process of running another cracking race, performing particularly well considering he was up 8lb since Cheltenham and would have preferred deeper ground.
Group Captain, third over course and distance last month, ran well again in fifth, aided by a decent 5lb-claimer, and Mamlook did well, too, in sixth over a trip his Flat form suggests ought to be on the sharp side. He could be just the type for the Coral Cup.
Irish challenger Cuan Na Grai did well to keep on for his respectable seventh after forcing the pace, and Alsadaa, who went with him, can be forgiven for dropping away, as this softish ground would not have suited.
Take The Breeze had his chance turning in but was soon in trouble, and Prince Taime never got into it after being held up in rear.
Irish Legend, up in class, was already weakening when hampered two out by Leamington Lad, who was beaten when unseating.
Khyber Kim failed to conform the promise of his Newbury return and ran rather flat, but one who does deserve a mentionis Irish challenger Sky Hall, who was prominent in the chasing group and going well enough when he fell three out, bringing down Five Dream.
A major disappointment, with no obvious excuse, was Aigle d'Or, who had given Numide such a race in the Greatwood but was in trouble here with three to jump.\[GD]
1 Issaquah (IRE) SP 2/1F
Supreme Leader - Our Sioux (IRE) (Jolly Jake) 6 10-10 J M Jefferson
James Halliday (10) 117 132
Tracked leaders going well, led on bit 4 out, clear 2 out, heavily eased run-in
2 4 Rich Lord SP 16/1
Zamindar (USA) - Al Corniche (IRE) (Bluebird) 4 11-7 Ferdy Murphy
G Lee 118 121
In rear, headway 8th, 5 lengths 2nd when blundered last, no chance with winner
3 2Ύ Prosecco (IRE) SP 7/1
Perpendicular - Bay Gale (IRE) (Abednego) 6 10-10 Miss Lucinda V Russell
Peter Buchanan 107 105
In rear, headway 2 out, stayed on well run-in
4 1½ Manhattan Boy (GER) SP 33/1
Monsun (GER) - Manhattan Girl (USA) (Vice Regent) 6 11-5 A M Crow
Mr G Crow (7) 123 122
Reluctant to go to start, chased leaders, one pace from 3 out
5 6 Edas SP 7/2
Celtic Swing - Eden (IRE) (Polish Precedent) 6 11-0 J J Quinn
R P Flint (7) 118 109
Chased leaders, weakened 2 out
6 shd Pen Gwen (FR) SP 25/1
Le Balafre (FR) - Dans Dro (FR) (Spoleto) 5 10-3 p Mrs K Walton
Wilson Renwick 100 90
Led, headed and hampered bend after 4th, led 8th, soon ridden, headed next, weakened 3 out
7 3Ό Ela Re SP 25/1
Sabrehill (USA) - Lucia Tarditi (FR) (Crystal Glitters) 9 11-1 Mrs S J Smith
Tjade Collier (3) 115 102
Handful start, went prominent 2nd, led after 4th, headed 8th, soon lost place
8 3½ Noticeable (IRE) SP 10/1
Night Shift (USA) - Nawaji (USA) (Trempolino) 4 11-8 b1 A King
Wayne Hutchinson 119 103
Chased leaders, upsides when hit 4 out, weakened next
9 10 Bobby Donald (IRE) SP 14/1
Lord Americo - River Rescue (Over The River) 6 10-3 R T Phillips
Gerard Tumelty (3) 103 77
In rear, ridden and lost place 8th, soon behind
10 3½ Hello Nod SP 18/1
Polish Precedent (USA) - Nordan Raider (Domynsky) 4 10-12 Miss J A Camacho
R P McLernon (7) 116 86
Mid-division, headway to chase leaders 8th, weakened approaching 2 out
PU Remainder SP 66/1
Mark Of Esteem (IRE) - Stay Behind (Elmaamul) 5 10-0 I McMath
W T Kennedy 97
In rear, behind 3 out, pulled up before next
PU Miss Pross SP 17/2
Bob's Return (IRE) - Lucy Manette (Final Straw) 8 10-9 T D Walford
Robert Walford 106
Prominent, lost place 5th, behind when pulled up before 3 out
12 ran TIME 4m 12.70s (slow by 36.70s) Total SP 117%
1st OWNER: Mr & Mrs J M Davenport BRED: Miss Mary O'Sullivan TRAINER: J M Jefferson
2nd OWNER: The DPRP Lord Partnership
3rd OWNER: Tay Valley Chasers Racing Club
TOTE toteswinger: 1&2 £10.50, 1&3 £3.30, 2&3 £17.10. WIN £2.80 PL £1.50, £3.10, £2.00; Ex £38.30; CSF £32.49; TRICAST £194.75
What had looked a competitive handicap proved something of a cakewalk for ISSAQUAH, who shrugged off a 15lb rise for her Kelso win to follow up in fine style and make it three from three over hurdles. She was never far from the pace and steadily cameclear once striking the front, being eased down to score by a margin that nowhere near reflects her superiority. She will be hit for this win but may well remain ahead of the handicapper.
Rich Lord, down in trip for this second run of the term, stayed on from the rear to chase the winner at the last, where he made a mistake. He was no match at all for the mare, but this was a decent effort even if he did not look an entirely straightforward ride.
Another to come from the rear was Prosecco, who ran respectably off a 7lb higher mark after his Ayr win. He was doing his best work after the last.
Manhattan Boy was last seen winning over fences at the beginning of June when trained by Philip Hobbs. Resuming off a 10lb higher hurdles mark, he ran a pleasing first race for the yard.
Edas was well supported with a leading claimer booked. Ridden in second place when stumbling at the first in the straight, he was held from that point and weakened out of the frame on the run-in. This was only his fourth run over hurdles and he could be worth another chance.
Ela Re was not discredited giving his antics before the start, when he half-bolted a couple of times, causing a delay, before consenting to line up.
Noticeable was raised 4lb after finishing second last time. He was rather keen in the first-time headgear and his first sucess continues to elude him.
22 Dec 2008 2:40 Hereford
LINDLEYS CATERING JUVENILE NOVICES' HURDLE (CLASS 4) (3yo) Winner £3,802 ATR
Going: SOFT. Number of runners: 16. Distance 2m1f
1 1 Sydney Sling 21 3 11-5 Evan Williams 69 D P Fahy 3 115 124 b g Xaar Cherry Hills (IRE) (Anabaa (USA))Minor AW Flat handicap winner in Ireland but booked for bigger things over hurdles judging by manner of effortless Fakenham maiden hurdle success this month; this is sterner opposition but stable has lines to the top juvenile hurdle form and should know where this one stands.
2 2 Anay Turge 18 3 10-12 N J Hawke 33 Daryl Jacob 40 95 b g Turgeon (USA) Anayette (FR) (Vaguely Pleasant (FR))Clear of remainder when remote second to a Nicholls hotpot at Wincanton this month on debut; hard to evaluate precise merit of that display but should come on for experience.
3 222 Black Jacari 40 b 1 3 10-12 A King 70 Robert Thornton 128 112 131 b g Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) Amalia (IRE) (Danehill (USA))Soft-ground 1m2f Flat winner off 78 but second all starts over hurdles, last twice when short-priced favourite, and connections now resort to blinkers; obvious chance but doubts beginning to creep in.
4 Emerald Crystal 90F 3 10-12 Mrs A M Thorpe 100 Charlie Poste 3 b g Green Desert (USA) Crystal Spray (Beldale Flutter (USA))Lightly raced and ultimately disappointing on Flat for Brian Meehan (rated 6; bought for 7,000gns and may be best watched on hurdling debut.
5 9 Falsino 62 3 10-12 Jonjo O΄Neill 71 A P McCoy b g Pentire Fleurie (GER) (Dashing Blade)Reported to have run green when ninth of 14 in junior bumper at Exeter in October and will have to have learnt plenty to win on hurdling debut, though as half-brother to smart jumper Foreman he could improve for obstacles.
6 Home 14F 3 10-12 C Gordon 33 Colin Bolger b g Domedriver (IRE) Swahili (IRE) (Kendor (FR))Won four low-grade races on Fibresand this year (rated 65 on AW) but not been at best in recent starts for this stable and watching brief looks best policy for now.
7 Karmei 33F 3 10-12 R Curtis 100 Jodie Mogford b g Royal Applause Lafite (Robellino (USA))Not rated highly enough on Flat to suggest winning hurdles debut likely here.
8 Loco Grande 66F 3 10-12 C E Longsdon 67 Tom Siddall ch g Raise A Grand (IRE) Locorotondo (IRE) (Broken Hearted)Won 1m4f heavy-ground Tipperary handicap off 69 in October when with Tommy Stack; bought 22,000gns later that month and in good hands, so precautionary market inspection desirable.
9 Marino Prince 17F 3 10-12 T Wall 0 Adam Pogson 3 b g Dr Fong (USA) Hula Queen (USA) (Irish River (FR))Won three times in low-grade on Polytrack as a 2yo but hasn΄t progressed (rated 4 and readily passed over on hurdling debut.
10 Okafranca 82F 3 10-12 J A B Old 100 Jason Maguire b g Okawango (USA) Villafranca (IRE) (In The Wings)Bought 42,000gns from Willie Muir in October after runaway 2m Chester win followed by a comprehensive defeat when favourite at Nottingham; rated 71 on Flat and market will help assess what΄s coming.
11 Ragamuffin Man 60F 3 10-12 Miss E C Lavelle 67 Jack Doyle 3 gr g Dalakhani (IRE) Chamela Bay (IRE) (Sadler΄s Wells (USA))Rated 75 on Flat after finishing creditable third in first-time visor when stepped up to 1m6f on Polytrack in October on final start for William Knight; new trainer proving a good operator but she tends not to rush her horses and market will guide whether any fireworks expected.
12 Stow 80F 3 10-12 Miss Venetia Williams 65 Sam Thomas ch g Selkirk (USA) Spry (Suave Dancer (USA))Cost 26,000gns in October after going close off 77 in 1m2f fast-ground Newmarket handicap for Hughie Morrison; likely contender if handling these softer conditions.
13 34P Wise Hawk 24 3 10-12 C J Down 0 Joe Tizzard 105 105 115 b g Hawk Wing (USA) Dombeya (IRE) (Danehill (USA))Didn΄t progress on Flat and bit worrying he ran so poorly over hurdles last time after revealing more than a little promise when fourth to useful pair Cosmea and Nampour at Wincanton in October; has it all to prove again.
14 Ambrose Princess 43F 3 10-5 M J Scudamore 17 Tom Scudamore b f Chevalier (IRE) Mark One (Mark Of Esteem (IRE))Successful four times in selling company on Flat but rated only 54 and surprising if she makes winning hurdles debut at this level.
15 633 Harveys Spirit 13 3 10-5 S Curran 100 Mattie Batchelor 96 92 101 ch f Rossini (USA) Ex-Imager (Exhibitioner)Thirds at Folkestone and Fontwell show she has a race in her but official figures suggest she has to improve if it΄s going to be this one.
16 853 Janet΄s Delight 18 3 10-5 S Curran 100 A Freeman 7 87 95 97 b f Erhaab (USA) Ishona (Selkirk (USA))Raterd 9lb inferior to stablemate Harveys Spirit and 41lb worse than Black Jacari and, although she has a race in her somewhere, she looks up against it here.
No doubt the warning bells are ringing for BLACK JACARI but he is given a last chance in first-time blinkers on ground he will handle. Sydney Sling created a good impression when making a winning hurdling debut and at the moment could be anything so must be feared along with some interesting newcomers, such as fast-ground 1m2f winner Stow
1 Stow SP 4/1
Selkirk (USA) - Spry (Suave Dancer) 3 10-9 Miss Venetia Williams
A Coleman (3)
Held up in touch, led approaching 2 out, ran on well flat
2 7 Black Jacari (IRE) SP 2/1F
Black Sam Bellamy (IRE) - Amalia (IRE) (Danehill) 3 10-12 b1 A King
Robert Thornton 128
Took keen hold early, always prominent, challenging when not fluent 2 out, ridden and one pace flat
3 10 Sydney Sling (IRE) SP 5/2
Xaar - Cherry Hills (IRE) (Anabaa) 3 11-2 Evan Williams
D P Fahy (3)
Held up in touch, went 3rd 2 out, soon ridden, weakened approaching last
4 5 Ambrose Princess (IRE) SP 100/1
Chevalier (IRE) - Mark One (Mark Of Esteem) 3 10-5 M J Scudamore
Tom Scudamore
Behind, jumped slowly 2nd, ridden and headway after 3 out, no further progress from 2 out
5 7 Ragamuffin Man (IRE) SP 6/1
Dalakhani (IRE) - Chamela Bay (IRE) (Sadler's Wells) 3 10-9 Miss E C Lavelle
Jack Doyle (3)
In rear, badly hampered 1st, headway after 3 out, weakened after 2 out
6 3½ Marino Prince (FR) SP 200/1
Dr Fong (USA) - Hula Queen (USA) (Irish River) 3 10-9 T Wall
Adam Pogson (3)
Held up in rear, headway 4th, mistake 5th, ridden and weakened 2 out
7 23 Loco Grande (IRE) SP 12/1
Raise A Grand (IRE) - Locorotondo (IRE) (Broken Hearted) 3 10-12 C E Longsdon
Tom Siddall
Prominent, every chance 3 out, weakened 2 out
8 17 Wise Hawk SP 40/1
Hawk Wing (USA) - Dombeya (IRE) (Danehill) 3 10-12 C J Down
Joe Tizzard 105
Disputed lead until definite advantage after 5th, ridden and headed approaching 2 out, soon weakened
9 Ύ Anay Turge (FR) SP 50/1
Turgeon (USA) - Anayette (FR) (Vaguely Pleasant) 3 10-12 N J Hawke
Daryl Jacob
Held up in mid-division, behind from 4th
10 9 Okafranca (IRE) SP 20/1
Okawango (USA) - Villafranca (IRE) (In The Wings) 3 10-12 J A B Old
Jason Maguire
Disputed lead until after 5th, weakened 3 out
12 4½ Karmei SP 100/1
Royal Applause - Lafite (Robellino) 3 10-12 R Curtis
Jodie Mogford
Bolted to post, hampered 1st, always behind
13 7 Emerald Crystal (IRE) SP 100/1
Green Desert (USA) - Crystal Spray (Beldale Flutter) 3 10-9 Mrs A M Thorpe
Charlie Poste (3)
Held up in touch, jumped left 4th, soon ridden, weakened 5th
UR Home SP 100/1
Domedriver (IRE) - Swahili (IRE) (Kendor) 3 10-12 C Gordon
Colin Bolger
Prominent until blundered and unseated rider 3rd
14 ran TIME 4m 5.30s (slow by 15.30s) Total SP 121%
NON RUNNERS: Harveys Spirit (IRE) Janet's Delight
1st OWNER: GSM Properties Ltd BRED: Plantation Stud TRAINER: Miss Venetia Williams
2nd OWNER: David Bellamy & Alan King
3rd OWNER: Billy Evans & Dai Rees
TOTE toteswinger: 1&2 £4.40, 1&3 £2.90, 2&3 £3.90. WIN £5.10 PL £1.60, £1.10, £1.40; Ex £17.20; CSF £12.39
An ordinary juvenile hurdle lacking strength in depth. STOW was a fair handicapper on the Flat, best at around 1m2f, and was sold out of Hughie Morrison's yard for 26,000gns to join his current stable. Making his hurdling debut, he challenged going well before the second-last and, after wandering going into the final obstacle, drew away on the run-in to win nicely in the end. He will have learned from this and could land another of these under a penalty.
Black Jacari has now found one to beat him on each of his four tries over hurdles, and while he clearly has the ability to win races he remains one to take on. Equipped with blinkers for the first time, he had his chance, but his hurdling lacked fluency and he appeared to be hanging in the latter stages.
Easy Fakenham winner Sydney Sling went after the leading pair at the second-last but could soon make no impression. He probably ran up to his debut form and gave the impression that he may have more to offer in time.
Formerly trainedby Ron Harris, Ambrose Princess won four sellers on the Flat and shaped encoragingly on this hurdles debut without ever getting into it.
Ragamuffin Man did well to recover after being hampered at the first and made minor late gains. He was a fair performer for another yard on the Flat and can improve on the bare form of this hurdles debut.
Marino Prince is a very modest performer on the AW but he showed a bit of promise on this hurdles debut.
26 Dec 2008
1:30 KEMPTON
Nigel Clark Feltham Novices΄ Chase (Sponsored By Stan James) Grade 1(Class 1) (4yo+) 3m Good 18 fences
£46,412.00, £17,916.00, £9,372.00, £5,076.00
1 Breedsbreeze (IRE) SP 15/8F
Fresh Breeze (USA) - Godfreys Cross (IRE) (Fine Blade) 6 11-7 P F Nicholls
R Walsh 149 95 152
Tracked leaders, left in 2nd at 12th, challenged after 4 out, led 2 out, gained upper hand though hung left before last, stayed on well
2 5 Massini's Maguire (IRE) SP 6/1
Dr Massini (IRE) - Molly Maguire (IRE) (Supreme Leader) 7 11-7 P J Hobbs
Richard Johnson 91 150
Jumped stickily early, led to 4th, led 8th, hit 12th, hard ridden and headed 2 out, weakened last
3 12 Hold Em (IRE) SP 16/1
Moscow Society (USA) - One To Two (IRE) (Astronef) 6 11-7 W K Goldsworthy
A P McCoy 134 81 141
Tracked leaders, in touch when hampered 12th, not fluent 15th, tried to close on leading pair before 3 out, steadily weakened
4 25 The Market Man (NZ) SP 2/1
Grosvenor (NZ) - Eastern Bazzaar (IRE) (King Persian) 8 11-7 N J Henderson
B J Geraghty 151 59 121
Close up, left 3rd at 12th, terrible blunder 14th, never recovered and weakened after next, slow 3 out, tailed off
F Shining Gale (IRE) SP 6/1
Glacial Storm (USA) - The Shining Force (IRE) (Strong Gale) 6 11-7 t C J Mann
Timmy Murphy 139
Led 4th to 8th, with leader when fell 12th
UR Millenium Royal (FR) SP 11/1
Mansonnien (FR) - Pink Champagne (FR) (Blue Courtier) 8 11-7 F Doumen
C Pieux 148
Held up in last, in touch when big jump 11th and unseated rider
6 ran TIME 6m 7.50s (slow by 7.50s) Total SP 110%
1st OWNER: Jim Lewis, Markus Jooste, Malcolm King BRED: Mrs Helen Walsh TRAINER: P F Nicholls
2nd OWNER: Alan Peterson
3rd OWNER: David Hughes Mike Evans and Partners
TOTE toteswinger: 1&2 £3.20, 1&3 £5.10, 2&3 £12.50. WIN £2.70 PL £1.70, £3.00; Ex £14.80; CSF £12.98
This looked a good renewal of the Feltham beforehand, but rather disappointingly only the winner had a clear round of jumping, which made for an unsatisfactory contest. The winning time was over ten seconds slower than the King George.
BREEDSBREEZE was unproven over a trip this far under rules (he did win a 3m point-to-point), but as it turned out he saw his race out best of all, obviously aided by a much better jumping display than his rivals, and he made it three from three over fences.
However, for all that this was a good, determined effort, it would probably be unwise to get carried away, and at this stage he makes limited appeal for the Royal & SunAlliance Chase, for which he is now favourite at odds ranging from 6-1 and 10-1. For a start, Paul Nicholls suggested he might be best suited by flat tracks, and this form will also need improving on, as he had to work hard to see off a rival who plainly did not get home.
Whatever the case, his trainer is keen to keep him fresh, and if he hasa run before Cheltenham it is likely to be in the Scilly Isles Chase at Sandown.
Massini's Maguire, the 2007 Ballymore winner who returned from injury with a workmanlike success on his chase debut at Ascot last month, did not impress with his jumping on the first circuit and, although he seemed to warm to the task, he rarely made much ground at his fences. He was still bang there turning into the straight, but he was ultimately outstayed by Breedsbreeze, who jumped the better of the pair, and thatultimately made the difference.
This trip around a speed track on decent ground did not seem an obvious concern beforehand, but in actual fact he has yet to totally prove himself beyond 2m5f. He can be given another chance to prove his stamina, and this experience should bring him on, but he might ultimately prove best suited by slightly shorter distances.
Hold Em ran a decent race in third, especially considering he was badly hampered when Shining Gale came down, and Tony McCoy felt he may even have been kicked in that incident. Provided he is none the worse, and the ground is good, he could go for a handicap at Cheltenham next week before he is reassessed.
The Market Man had yet to make his move when losing his chance with a bad mistake at the fifth-last, appearing to take off far too early and almost landing on the fence. Barry Geraghty felt his mount may have been blinded by the sun. He is now likely to be given another run before the Royal & SunAlliance Chase, with the idea being togain further experience and also boost his confidence.
Millenium Royal was out the back when getting rid of his rider with a mistake at the 11th, but it was too far out to know how he might have fared.
Shining Gale, the winner of his first two starts over fences, had a cross noseband fitted and raced a little freely before falling at the 12th. [RW]
26 Dec 2008
2:05 KEMPTON
Stan James Christmas Hurdle Grade 1(Class 1) (4yo+) 2m Good 8 hdles
£63,816.50, £24,634.50, £12,886.50, £6,979.50
1 Harchibald (FR) SP 7/1
Perugino (USA) - Dame D'Harvard (USA) (Quest For Fame) 9 11-7 t Noel Meade
P Carberry 162 135 158
Held up last, progress to track leaders after 3 out, going easily when bumped by faller 2 out, asked to lead and hit last, ridden and found enough flat
2 Ύ Snap Tie (IRE) SP 9/2
Pistolet Bleu (IRE) - Aries Girl (Valiyar) 6 11-7 P J Hobbs
Richard Johnson 156 134 156
Close up, led soon after 3 out, ridden next, headed last, kept on well flat to regain 2nd near finish
3 hd Blue Bajan (IRE) SP 17/2
Montjeu (IRE) - Gentle Thoughts (Darshaan) 6 11-7 Andrew Turnell
G Lee 155 134 156
Held up in last pair, progress to track leaders after 3 out, ridden 2 out, challenged last, not quicken flat
4 33 Straw Bear (USA) SP 9/1
Diesis - Highland Ceilidh (IRE) (Scottish Reel) 7 11-7 N J Gifford
A P McCoy 162 94 136
Disputed lead until headed and weakened soon after 3 out, tailed off
F Pierrot Lunaire (USA) SP 5/1
War Chant (USA) - Playact (IRE) (Hernando) 4 11-7 P F Nicholls
R Walsh 148 141
Disputed lead until lost place rapidly before 3 out, soon last and outpaced, hampered 2 out, 16 lengths 4th when fell heavily last, winded
F Punjabi SP 11/8F
Komaite (USA) - Competa (Hernando) 5 11-7 N J Henderson
B J Geraghty 163 158
Tracked leading pair and took quite keen hold, with leader after 3 out, nearly upsides when fell heavily 2 out
F Afsoun (FR) SP 16/1
Kahyasi - Afragha (IRE) (Darshaan) 6 11-7 N J Henderson
Robert Thornton 162
Held up, 5th when crashing fall 4th
7 ran TIME 3m 51.30s (fast by 1.70s) Total SP 115%
NON RUNNER: Leslingtaylor (IRE)
1st OWNER: D P Sharkey BRED: S N C Ecurie Bouchard Jean-Lo TRAINER: Noel Meade
2nd OWNER: Mrs Diana L Whateley
3rd OWNER: Dr John Hollowood
TOTE toteswinger: 1&2 £6.70, 1&3 £8.60, 2&3 £8.20. WIN £6.80 PL £2.50, £3.00; Ex £42.20; CSF £39.24Pool: £1,362.72 - 4.90 winning units TRIFECTA £205.70 Pool: £1,362.72 - 4.90 winning units
A decent field, especially considering its proximity to last Saturday's rearranged Boylesports Hurdle, and a more open race than the betting suggested, with four runners within 4lb of one another on Racing Post Ratings, the same four only 1lb apart on BHA figures, and the three others all unexposed and within striking distance of the same sort of mark.
Unfortunately it turned out a most eventful affair, with three runners falling independently at different flights and a narrow victory going to a horsewho has already had two chances in the Champion Hurdle. The time was slower than that recorded by Micheal Flips in the earlier novice and, all in all, it was not a race that will have given ante-post supporters of Binocular much to worry about.
The 2005 Champion Hurdle runner-up HARCHIBALD won this back in 2004 and might have won it again last year but for the tactical brilliance of Tony McCoy on Straw Bear. Held up, as ever, he was perhaps lucky not to be brought down by Punjabi at the second-last, as Paul Carberry had understandably picked the favourite out as his target and had him firmly in his sights.
Immediately switched between Snap Tie and Blue Bajan, he was in front sooner than ideal and stepped at the last, but he got away with it andthis time he was always finding enough on the run-in.
Connections said he was flat in this race last year, but they felt he was in much better form this time and indeed that he seems as good as ever. There is no reason why he should not go well again at Cheltenham, but at this stage of his career he will be vulnerable to the less-exposed runners, particularly Binocular, and he must have this sort of ground.
Snap Tie, kept fresh since beating the reigning champion Katchit over course and distance in October, is another who wants this sort of ground or quicker. He edged to the front up the inner rounding the home turn and did nothing wrong - indeed this may well have been career-best form - but it surely was not the form of a prospective ChampionHurdle winner.
Blue Bajan was probably running the race of his life too, but his connections were left a little disappointed. He has improved with virtually every race, but there is still a big gulf to bridge if he is to trouble a peak-form Binocular at Cheltenham. The Champion remains his objective nevertheless, unless it comes up soft.
Last year's winner Straw Bear was reverting to hurdles after proving unconvincing over fences, but there were few positives to be taken from another disappointing effort. Having set the race up somewhat for the others, he was beaten before the straight and trailed in a poor last of four finishers. He remains one to be wary of for the time being.
The 2007 Champion Hurdle third Afsoun, another reverting to hurdles after flirting with chasing, was the first to depart, coming down at the fourth flight.
His stablemate Punjabi, a lacklustre fourth here a year ago but unbeaten since his third in this year's Champion Hurdle, including in two Flat handicaps, got to the second-last, where he was upsides when he came down. It is impossible to say whether he would have won or not, but he was in with every chance. Luckily he got straight up, and although he required a stitch in a hind leg, he was essentially none the worse for his mishap.
Pierrot Lunaire, who made Binocular work here last season, had to swerve to avoid Punjabi, but he was already in trouble, having been outpaced on touching down over three out. He was about 16 lengths off the principals when he fell heavily at the last and lay prone for some while. Luckily he was just winded. [GD]
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; bought for 7,000gns and may be best watched on hurdling debut.