tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5777161232171954192024-02-07T03:58:19.812+00:00Weekly WagersFrom longshots to naps. Our weekly look at the races.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-52154932142600035242021-05-01T22:16:00.001+01:002023-07-27T14:46:15.918+01:00Fake Jockey Apprehended!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
I thought I'd heard it all when I read a headline concerning a <b>fake jockey</b> at Newbury, but of course we do currently live in a wild 'The Onion'-esque world that thrusts everything from fake pound coins to fake news in our faces.<br />
<br />
This jokey/crazy/bored fellow decided that he'd make an appearance in the parade ring, late last month at Newbury. His joke was perhaps taken more seriously than he'd hoped though, on account that the queen was present and his larking around was seen as a potential security threat. The man was believed to be on a stag do. At least he'll now have a good story to tell his mates! Maybe next year he'll return dressed as a horse!<br />
<br />
Newbury head of communications Andy Clifton said "There was nothing sinister about it, but when the Queen is here these things need to be taken seriously."<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-12030239178992425322021-03-01T13:00:00.001+00:002023-07-27T14:46:09.391+01:00What is the Great Metropolitan Handicap?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It's a <a href="https://racingquestions.co.uk/">question</a> I doubt many will have the answer to. Since 1985, the Great Metropolitan
Handicap has become just another middle distance handicap, albeit run
over the same course and distance as the Derby – that is, a mile
and a half on Epsom Downs – but, in its modern incarnation, is a
pale imitation of the race which, in its heyday, was contested by
first rate horses. The Great Metropolitan Handicap was devised by
London publican Samuel Powell Beeton, who banded together with other
licensees and bookmakers to sponsor a race – one of the first of
its kind in Britain – at the Epsom Spring Meeting.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Inaugurated in 1846, ‘The Publicans’
Derby’, as the race was known in its early years, was originally
run over the extreme distance of two and a quarter miles.
Participants started at the winning post, ran the ‘wrong’ way up
the straight, nearly as far as Tattenham Corner, before meandering
across the North Downs to rejoin the racecourse ‘proper’ at the
mile marker.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
While the North Downs was public land,
not ideal for horse racing, in terms of maintenance, the Great
Metropolitan Handicap continued in its original, unique form for over
a century. Indeed, in 1947, it had the distinction of being the first
horse race in Britain in which the newly-introduced photo-finish
camera was used to determine the result.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
However, 1985 marked the end of an era,
when the distance of the Great Metropolitan Handicap was reduced to a
mile and a half and the race was run, for the first time, the ‘right’
way round on the Derby Course. In 2018, total prize money for the
Great Metropolitan Handicap was £25,000 which, in real terms, is
substantially less – in fact, just over £11,000 less, accounting
for inflation – than the £300 raised by Beeton and his associates
to sponsor the inaugural running of the race.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-41330470871666059432021-01-14T23:16:00.001+00:002023-07-27T14:46:05.024+01:00Cheltenham Festival - The Arkle Challenge Trophy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The Arkle Challenge Trophy, <a href="http://www.cheltenhamraces.org.uk/">Cheltenham Festival’s</a> second race, is another exciting spectacle that draws spectators to the annual sporting event. It is run immediately after the festival’s curtain-raiser- the Champion Novices’ Hurdle on the same Old Course that hosts the first race.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">With the crowd already charged by the first race, the Arkle race serves to turn the tempo a notch higher. Fan stands are usually buzzing with excitement during this race, with many punters placing stakes on their favourite horses. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The race distance is about 3199 metres (2 miles) with thirteen fence obstacles placed strategically along the course. The fence spacing stretches both the horses’ and jockeys’ skills of jumping, landing, deceleration, and acceleration. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Eligibility for the race is that horses should be five years or older. This makes it pretty popular as most horse owners use the minimum-distance factor to test their horses. Winners at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arkle_Challenge_Trophy">Arkle</a> have often gone on to win the bigger Queen Mother Champion Chase and the premier Gold Cup. More and more owners keep registering their horses in this with an aim of seeing them progress to the elite<br />competitions. </span></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The race has been run by its current name since 1969 when it replaced the Cotswold Chase. It was named in honour of Arkle, a racehorse who dominated the Gold Cup with three commanding wins in the 60s.</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The 2017 race was an especially spectacular event as competitors kept switching places and threatening to trash bets at every point. Race favourite Altior was given a real run for the money by Charbel, who surged to the front within seconds of the start. Nico de Boinville, slightly ahead of Altior, kept blocking attempts to catch up with Charbel. </span></div>
<br />
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</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">With the race seemingly decided, Charbel fluffed at a landing sending his jockey sprawling. Altior took immediate advantage to charge again and win by six full-lengths, finishing to a thunderous crowd applause and setting the stage for an explosive 2018.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-64143444518782549342020-12-02T14:29:00.001+00:002023-07-27T14:46:01.126+01:00Saddle Up for some Horse Jokes
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Where do horses
go when they’re sick? The horsepital.<br /><br /><br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
How do you make
a small fortune out of horses?<br />Start with a large fortune</div>
<div lang="en" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0.35cm;">
<br /><br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Q. What does it
mean if you find a horseshoe?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
A. Some poor
horse is walking around in his socks.</div>
<div lang="en" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0.35cm;">
<br /><br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
A: I put £10 on
a horse yesterday who was running against applesB: </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
What happened?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
A: I
lost, he got pipped at the post</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
What do you call
a horse that can’t lose a race? Sherbet.<br /><br /><br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
What’s black
and white and eats like a horse? A zebra.<br /><br /><br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Which side of a
horse has more hair?<br />The outside</div>
<div lang="en" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0.35cm;">
<br /><br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
"Bob, I
can't understand how Bill can have so much luck at cards and be so
unlucky with horses."
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
"That's
easy," said Bob. "You can't shuffle the horses." </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
A man has a
racehorse who never won a race. In disgust the man says, ” Horse,
you win today or you will be pulling a milk wagon tomorrow morning.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
The starting
gate opens, the horses take-off, they move the gate away and there
lays his horse asleep on the track.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
He kicks the
horse and asks, “Why on earth are you sleeping?”, The horse, half
asleep says, “I have to get up at three in the morning.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
A Kentucky horse
breeder had a filly that won every race in which she was entered. But
as she got older she became very temperamental. He soon found that
when he raced her in the evening, she would win handily, but when she
raced during the day she would come in dead last. He consulted the
top veterinarians and horse psychologists but to no avail. He finally
had to give up because it had become ... a real night mare.
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-42209382737892732312020-11-05T01:30:00.001+00:002023-07-27T14:45:54.882+01:00What is Equine Flu Anyway?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Equine influenza, or equine flu, is a
severe, respiratory disease, regularly found in British horses.
Indeed, small outbreaks of the disease occur throughout the country
every year, but the last major outbreak came in the spring of 2003,
when <a href="https://www.grandnational2019.uk/">horse racing</a> stables in Newmarket were particularly badly affected.
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The disease is caused by strains of the
influenza virus type A, which is akin, but not identical, to the
human influenza virus. The good news is that equine influenza cannot
be transmitted to humans, but the bad news is that it is highly
contagious – in fact, one of the most contagious diseases affecting
the British horse population – and can be physically carried by
human skin, hair and clothing, as well as by equipment and vehicles.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The equine influenza virus infects the
thin, membranous tissue of the upper respiratory tract, causing them
to become inflamed and ulcerated. Aside from an abnormally high body
temperature, the main clinical signs of equine influenza are a harsh,
dry cough – which is the main means by which the disease spreads –
and a profuse, watery nasal discharge. The damage areas in the lining
of the airways may be penetrated by bacteria, causing secondary
infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The treatment of uncomplicated cases of
equine influenza consists of strict rest, usually for a week or two,
to allow the disease to run its course, but secondary bacterial
infections require antibiotic treatment, delaying the recovery
period. Clearly, equine influenza has major economic implications for
owners, trainers and anyone else involved in horse racing in Britain,
so despite complaints from some quarters – not least trainer Nigel
Twiston-Davies, who described the measures to contain the disease put
in place by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) as a ‘massive
overreaction’, the regulator has every right to be nervous. With the Cheltenham Festival and Grand National just around the corner let me hope that the situation improves over the coming days.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-62486608444966587512020-09-01T21:08:00.001+01:002023-07-27T14:45:36.627+01:00Kempton Park Racecourse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="en-GB">As one of the most
revered courses in the modern racing circuit, Kempton Park Racecourse
has a fantastic reputation. With plenty of entertainment going on
here, from the BetBright Chase to the more classical King George XI
Chase, this fantastic racecourse offers a great selection of races to
come and watch. With over 200 acres of land and a fantastic woodland
area that surrounds it, Kempton Park Racecourse has a wonderfully
private feel to it.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="en-GB">With an entrance
right next to Kempton Park Railway Station, getting in and out is as
easy as it should be. With two inner and outer courses joined
together for both flat and fenced racing, this allows the course to
be as versatile as possible with the races that run here. From
January to December, this holds the likes of the Lanzarote Hurdle
right through to the famous Desert Orchid Chase to finish the year
off.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="Bookmark"></a><span lang="en-GB">Outside
of racing, you get many antique markets held here as well as wedding
fairs. As such, it’s a location with plenty of commercial activity,
with regular bookings at the host of restaurants around the place
making a fantastic venue to come and visit.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span lang="en-GB">If you want, you can
even rent out part of the racecourse for a family function. It makes
a fine place for events to be held, making sure that you can have all
the fun that you like at the racecourse, then maybe take in one of
the numerous excellent races held here! </span>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-78442060925299891572020-08-12T19:03:00.001+01:002023-07-27T14:45:31.596+01:0015 Funny and Meaningful Horse Quotes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
If your horse says "no", you either asked the wrong question, or asked the question wrong - Pat Parelli<br />
<br />
Any money I put on a horse is a sort of insurance policy to prevent it from winning - Frank Richardson<br />
<br />
A dog may be man's best friend...but the horse wrote history - Author Unknown<br />
<br />
A great horse will change your life. The truly special ones define it… – Author Unknown<br />
I've spent most of my life riding horses. The rest I've just wasted - Author Unknown<br />
<br />
A man on a horse is spiritually as well as physically bigger than a man on foot. – John Steinbeck<br />
<br />
What the colt learns in youth he continues in old age – French Proverb<br />
<br />
A horse is dangerous at both ends and uncomfortable in the middle - Ian Fleming <br />
<br />
A horse doesn't know whether the rider on his back wears a dress or pants away from the track -<br />
Diane Crump <br />
<br />
God forbid that I should go to any Heaven in which there are no horses – R.B. Cunninghame Graham<br />
<br />
Whenever I was upset by something in the papers, Jack always told me to be more tolerant, like a horse flicking away flies in the summer - Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis<br />
<br />
This is really a lovely horse and I speak from personal experience since I once mounted her mother - Ted Walsh - Horse Racing Commentator<br />
<br />
That was the first time I saw a horse start from a kneeling position! - Henny Youngman <br />
<br />
A difference of opinion is what makes horse racing and missionaries - Will Rogers<br />
<br />
A horse gallops with his lungs, perseveres with his heart, and wins with his character. - Federico Tesio <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-17557071692006929242020-07-01T19:31:00.000+01:002020-07-02T05:25:59.974+01:00How long until the weekend?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj324rMhdFNZANXPaDyTuDSNpaeF-EGlaazCum0Jg7oxjncFtrjYALFhlNHYNifXde80goVcqGKJkjCWQunKcE0mTR_z4cAb0PmmdK8xVN5l_rUF0_pBX3F3FOTXpVj3GlsX3WewbHBGfg/s1600/party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="403" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj324rMhdFNZANXPaDyTuDSNpaeF-EGlaazCum0Jg7oxjncFtrjYALFhlNHYNifXde80goVcqGKJkjCWQunKcE0mTR_z4cAb0PmmdK8xVN5l_rUF0_pBX3F3FOTXpVj3GlsX3WewbHBGfg/s400/party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-27176804943092137092020-06-18T05:42:00.000+01:002020-07-02T05:25:37.008+01:00Dummies Guide!<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7SF07FgDhZs" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
Smeone needs to hand out some 'Dummies Guides' to horse racing here. What an absolutely strange affair from beginning to end!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-67448978101752499742020-05-15T01:26:00.001+01:002023-07-27T14:45:14.130+01:00Shergar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Beaten just twice, under mitigating
circumstances, in his eight-race career, Shergar owes his place among
the racing greats primarily to his 10-length win in the 1981 Derby,
still the widest winning margin in the 233-year history of the race.
Indeed, winning jockey Walter Swinburn always insisted that Shergar
had so much in reserve that he could have won by twice as far, had he
so desired.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
A striking bay colt, with a white blaze
and four white socks, Shergar made his debut for Michael Stoute in a
maiden race, the Kris Plate, over a mile at Newbury in September
1980. Sent off the 11/8 favourite, Shergar won by 2½ lengths under
Lester Piggott, setting a course record in the process. Stepped up in
class for the William Hill Futurity (nowadays the Racing Post Trophy)
at Doncaster the following month, Shergar finished second, beaten 2½
lengths, behind Beldale Flutter.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
However, it was 1981, his
three-year-old season, that was to prove the “annus mirabilis”
for the son of Great Nephew. He reappeared in the Guardian Classic
Trial at Sandown in April, which he won by 10 lengths, and hacked up
by 12 lengths in the Chester Vase in May, with Swinburn sitting
motionless. His dramatic progress from two to three years saw him
promoted to 11/10 favourite for the Derby the following month, in the
absence of the injured Beldale Flutter.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In the Derby, Shergar took the lead
rounding Tattenham Corner and displayed a breathtaking turn of foot,
drawing away to win by 10 lengths, eased down. Radio commentator
Peter Bromley summed up the scene on Epsom Downs when he said, “You
need a telescope to see the rest.”</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Three weeks later, Shergar travelled to
the Curragh for the Irish Derby where, in the absence of the
suspended Swinburn, he was partnered once again by Lester Piggott.
Shergar was never out of a canter to win by 4 lengths and, reunited
with Swinburn and taking on older horses for the first time, won the
King George and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot by an identical
margin the following month.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Instead of heading straight for the
Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp in October, a change of plan
saw him line up for the St. Leger at Doncaster, for which he started
6/4 favourite. However, the writing was on the wall a long way from
home and Shergar weakened to finish only fourth, beaten 9 lengths,
behind Cut Above, trained by Major Dick Hern and ridden by Joe
Mercer. Following that defeat, Shergar wasn’t entered in the Prix
de l’Arc de Triomphe and had run his last race. Nevertheless, he
had amassed £295,000 in prize money during 1981 and was voted
European Racehorse of the Year.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
At the end of his racing career,
Shergar retired to the Ballymany Stud, County Kildare, and was
syndicated for £10 million by his breeder and owner, the Aga Khan,
who hoped that the colt would enhance his breeding operation. In his
first season at stud, Shergar put 42 of the first 44 mares he covered
in foal, but shortly before the start of his second season disaster
struck.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Shergar was kidnapped from the
Ballymany Stud by an armed gang on Wednesday, February 3, 1983. He
apparently met a gruesome end when shot dead by his kidnappers in a
stable in County Leitrim shortly afterwards, but his body has never
been found. Over 30 years later, the file on the disappearance of
Shergar remains open, but as Walter Swinburn put it, “I always say
that the ending can never spoil the great memories.”</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-49338068617873919922020-03-21T02:53:00.001+00:002023-07-27T14:45:01.011+01:00Australian Racing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Here at horseracingtips.org.uk we
appreciate that, although UK focused, it certainly doesn't hurt to
cast a wide net at times and take a more worldwide approach. We've
cast our gaze over US racing in the past and so it's high time we
also did the same with Australian racing.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It was actually a rather sweet / funny
story that led me to take a closer took at Australian racing over
recent weeks. It was due to the story that went viral concerning a
horse named Horsey McHorseFace. The horse was named after, or rather
an acknowledgement of, the comedic name given to the UK research
vessel now named RRS Sir David Attenborough. At the time the decision
was made to ask the public via voting on the internet, what they
thought the ship should be called. As you'd expect, these things
never work out well and the name winning by a country mile was Boaty
McBoatFace. The argument over whether to stick with this name
comically went all of the way to government panels. In the end a
compromise was made and a submersible on the ship kept the boaty
name, which the ship itself was named after Attenborough.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In any case as stated, as a 'tip of the
hat' to this, an Aussie horse was, to the amusement of many, named
Horsey McHorseface. As it happened it's abilities were anything but
comical, and when the three year old gained his first win in a 7f
maiden race with Keagan Latham riding, the story made national and
international news. He's only had one run since that time, which
sadly wasn't a win, but we have high hopes for horsey. In fact I
can't quite believe he doesn't yet have his own wikipedia page!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
What else is going on in Australian
racing you may ask? Well, let's not forget that the Melbourne Cup is
fast approaching. Due to take place in Novembver, this jewel in the
crown of Australian jump race events is bound to once again be one to
watch. The best of the best will go head to head over a 3,200m course
on the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria. With total prize
money equal or above an impressive $6,200,000 (AU) the race is bound
to be a competitive affair.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Attendance at the course is expected to
be around 100,000 with millions more watching at home and around the
world too. Last year's winner was Almandin ridden by Kerrin Mcvoy. It's a bit too early
for us to start making 2017 Melbourne Cup predictions, but we'll soon
no doubt have a clearer idea of one's to watch!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-74679419541282232532020-02-12T01:27:00.000+00:002020-05-17T20:13:54.560+01:00When It's Just Not Your Day<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GfUmq4FHapw" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
I was skeptical of the 'this will make you give up punting' title to be honest, but to be honest if I'd been on this, I'd have felt cursed! File under 'It's not your day, mate!'Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-424466497293542172020-01-14T16:57:00.000+00:002020-05-17T20:12:46.217+01:00Cheltenham Festival Infographic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_1kz5y5DgGW128Y0bP1wGSop7Co7GCApkyupVvCSwNLoI5XJKAOH9Tz-oQxyRBF6OXJRnwjg6OkzehraR0b-_yyJRcv00kJUD2dqJrHyq8m803vbTpxvHWcAIV-fcKe1gXNZd06Mlds/s1600/cheltenham-festival-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1348" data-original-width="950" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_1kz5y5DgGW128Y0bP1wGSop7Co7GCApkyupVvCSwNLoI5XJKAOH9Tz-oQxyRBF6OXJRnwjg6OkzehraR0b-_yyJRcv00kJUD2dqJrHyq8m803vbTpxvHWcAIV-fcKe1gXNZd06Mlds/s640/cheltenham-festival-2015.jpg" width="449" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Something of a trip down memory lane here, with this <a href="http://www.cheltenhamraces.org.uk/">Cheltenham</a> themed infographic from 2015. The 2018 festival is just around the corner now and with that in mind I thought I'd highlight one or two past years previous to its start date on March 13th. The infographic takes a quirky and informative view of Cheltenham as a whole, with an emphasis on horse racing thrown in. £150 million + is bet on the festival each year. It's certainly one of the jewels in the crown of British horse racing.</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-76343245200760340102019-11-12T21:12:00.000+00:002020-05-17T20:12:06.715+01:00I'll just leave this here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3A9sIgyJ-0dEIKoQgPIPFo-6vKzrTDB9ccf1CH67hhpEqz1X8Axhyphenhyphens0n5ApLWO2HTvu96KjAqpHZR1Bpf5jF7phKr33SUbpA1DP7VMZXwiqcUoO529mx0-HnHNolgM1V3y96DyDngHsE/s1600/funny-horse-pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3A9sIgyJ-0dEIKoQgPIPFo-6vKzrTDB9ccf1CH67hhpEqz1X8Axhyphenhyphens0n5ApLWO2HTvu96KjAqpHZR1Bpf5jF7phKr33SUbpA1DP7VMZXwiqcUoO529mx0-HnHNolgM1V3y96DyDngHsE/s400/funny-horse-pic.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-816177669987374442019-09-18T08:40:00.000+01:002020-05-17T20:11:16.755+01:00Horse Humour!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB6PwVZiRJhaWaMSp-OnjM9d3E_WQyhPwbnJyL4SyALhL0hLEsOwjYIw0z9sWw5lD3mq0XPeoRHY6mC_3NH4RY3X1TKBBpYnAsvKa5B6O1wSnxavS5M1r5iXHitx8cBaAw0pN_7pZlyw/s1600/feed-a-horse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="269" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB6PwVZiRJhaWaMSp-OnjM9d3E_WQyhPwbnJyL4SyALhL0hLEsOwjYIw0z9sWw5lD3mq0XPeoRHY6mC_3NH4RY3X1TKBBpYnAsvKa5B6O1wSnxavS5M1r5iXHitx8cBaAw0pN_7pZlyw/s640/feed-a-horse.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-32651430538946337702019-05-15T01:12:00.000+01:002019-05-15T01:12:00.398+01:00Jockey Stages Astonishing Comeback!<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fcQvAI07g7Y" width="560"></iframe>
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A good advertisement for never giving up!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-84043049979592591402019-01-07T14:13:00.002+00:002023-07-27T14:44:46.694+01:003.10 Ayr, Tuesday, January 7
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In the RacingTV.com Handicap Hurdle
(3.10) at Ayr on Tuesday, <b>Cornborough</b> returns from a 52-day
break, but beat subsequent dual winner Golden Jeffrey with something
in hand at Wetherby when last seen in November and the handicapper
appears to have erred on the side of leniency by raising him just 4lb
for that success. Indeed, the runner-up had beaten all bar the
progressive Chica Buena on his previous start at Musselburgh, so the
form looks particularly strong in the context of this race.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
Cornborough has won a couple of times
over hurdles on rain-softened ground, including a maiden hurdle over
course and distance three seasons ago, and demonstrated his ability
to act on the prevailing ‘soft’ going when winning on the Flat at
Chester in September. Relatively lightly raced for an eight-year-old,
the son of Derby winner Sir Percy has won off his current handicap
mark, of 126, in the past and, having run at least as well as ever
the last twice, must have every chance of doing so again.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In fact, Cornborough missed an
engagement in a better race at Sandown on Saturday to wait for this
easier opportunity, so the hint looks well worth taking. All of his
rivals have questions to answer, for one reason or another, so
provided he’s fit and ready to do himself justice after a short
absence Cornborough looks to have an outstanding chance of following
up his Wetherby victory.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Selection</b>: Ayr 3.10 <b>Cornborough</b>
to win
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-13283355765605420022018-12-25T02:01:00.000+00:002018-12-25T02:01:21.095+00:00Merry Xmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpdp_i3djfet5bC7JoFCZ7DlIar-H31mXwePye6Wd_hhusofC9RUH8kzzkZWXQeMe1jLbxKG4qyHPB08Wj_rx-PHJ-LHiXzKh6uK331qd0RFfBRn53W9S-Deg5i_Z4vfO6Rx7zdZM3vE/s1600/horse-racing-at-christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="340" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpdp_i3djfet5bC7JoFCZ7DlIar-H31mXwePye6Wd_hhusofC9RUH8kzzkZWXQeMe1jLbxKG4qyHPB08Wj_rx-PHJ-LHiXzKh6uK331qd0RFfBRn53W9S-Deg5i_Z4vfO6Rx7zdZM3vE/s400/horse-racing-at-christmas.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have a good'un!</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-45597662993148375192018-11-12T12:23:00.002+00:002023-07-27T14:44:34.956+01:006.45 Chelmsford, Tuesday, November 13
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Despite being by Derby winner Sir Percy
out of a Sadler’s Wells mare, <i>and</i> being trained by the most
successful trainer in the history of British horse racing, Mark
Johnston, <b>Gemologist</b> has shown only limited signs of ability,
at least so far. However, the Double Delight Hat-Trick Heaven at
Totesport.com Handicap (6.45) at Chelmsford on Tuesday evening is
scraping the bottom of the barrel, in terms of quality, so, with the
step up to 1 mile 5 furlongs and 66 yards seeming in her favour, the
filly may yet be seen in better light.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
She returns from a 215-day break and
her two previous efforts at the Essex track, albeit over 1 mile 2
furlongs, were moderate at best. On the most recent occasion, in
March, she finished sixth of eight, beaten 8¼ lengths, after finding
no extra in the closing stages, but that was in a 0-65 affair, off a
handicap mark of 62. Notwithstanding the step up in distance, here
she contests a lowly 0-50 handicap, off a handicap mark fully 12lb
lower, so it would be no real surprise if she showed improved form on
her return to action.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Indeed, apprentice Andrew Breslin takes
off another 5lb, so I suspect that – despite her illustrious
pedigree – without a forward showing in the company, her days at
Middleham Moor may be limited. Let’s hope, for all concerned, that
she turns out to be the proverbial “diamond in the rough”.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Selection</b>: Chelmsford 6.45
<b>Gemologist</b> to win</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-31835649298864940972018-11-05T15:40:00.002+00:002023-07-27T14:44:27.794+01:003.20 Nottingham, Wednesday, November 7
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
November Handicap Raceday at Doncaster
on Saturday officially brings down the curtain on the Flat season,
but there is no shortage of runners at Nottingham on Wednesday and
the Bet at RacingUK.com Handicap (3.20), for which 17 runners are
declared, provides us with an opportunity for a midweek tilt at the
ring.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
One or two of those with recent winning
form may be better suited by softer ground and/or a sharper track,
but one who should be perfectly at home over a galloping five
furlongs on the prevailing good going is the topweight <b>Secret
Potion</b>. Ronald Harris’ four-year-old has been raised 6lb in the
weights for winning a similar race on the Tapeta surface at
Wolverhampton eight days ago, by just a head, but the pick of his
turf form, this season and last, suggests he’s far from impossibly
handicapped.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Notwithstanding a poor effort at
Brighton three starts ago, the son of Stimulation, from the family of
top-class sprinter Choisir, has been in fair form since returning
from a 71-day break at Lingfield in August. His third of 17, beaten
1¾ lengths, behind Our Oyster Catcher – who runs in the 2.50 at
Nottingham on Wednesday – in a 0-70 contest at Bath on his
penultimate start was a particularly strong effort in the context of
this race. Champion apprentice-elect, Jason Watson, who has a 2-8
(25%) strike rate for the yard, for a level stakes profit of 11.50
points, takes the ride for the first time, which provides cause for
optimism.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Selection</b>: Nottingham 3.20
<b>Secret Potion</b> to win 8/1</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-50791506412334070472018-10-23T15:23:00.005+01:002018-10-23T15:23:57.968+01:00The Top 10 Racecourses in the World
Heading to the
races is a time-honored tradition that has lasted centuries and
continues to thrive in countries all over the world today. Whether
we're celebrating regal events like the Royal Ascot or exciting
sporting moments like the Melbourne Cup, racecourses are places where
people of all backgrounds have congregated for hundreds of years to
enjoy the festivity, pomp, and energy that racecourses provide.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Given that the
sport of horse racing has such a rich historical pedigree, there are
a number of racecourses around the world that are not only unique
spaces but also historical monuments in their own right. Here's our
round-up of the top ten racecourses in the world today, where you can
experience the sport at its very best.</div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjazQ_jWNKxtcpXo4JeddMVqoiA5TDXLQEr-cbUdIXJRZKMmEIWn9UfJxqF2U3E3qJvxETLPuiBnhJavgPfrWaE05CO6VLirkHO83A9kWDR9ZGOkTO2UwY3xiwmSh-bOvaCfauce_-Lc/s1600/ascot-1793332_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjazQ_jWNKxtcpXo4JeddMVqoiA5TDXLQEr-cbUdIXJRZKMmEIWn9UfJxqF2U3E3qJvxETLPuiBnhJavgPfrWaE05CO6VLirkHO83A9kWDR9ZGOkTO2UwY3xiwmSh-bOvaCfauce_-Lc/s320/ascot-1793332_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Source: <em><a href="https://pixabay.com/en/ascot-queen-horse-england-uk-1793332/"><span style="color: blue;"><u>Pixabay</u></span></a></em></div>
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</div>
<h2 class="western">
Ascot, Berkshire, England</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
The palatial
Ascot racecourse is home to one of the most prestigious events in the
British calendar, the Royal Ascot, which has been going every year
for a total of 307 years. The event was launched during the reign of
Queen Anne and since then the extended royal family, including Queen
Elizabeth herself, congregate in the beautiful grounds of this
stadium to watch the races amind flowing fountains of champagne and
unbelievably high bets. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2 class="western">
Churchill Downs, Kentucky, United States</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
The Churchill
Downs is home to what is probably the most famous horse racing event
on the planet, the Kentucky Derby. Named after the original owners of
the site, the entrepreneurial brothers John and Henry Churchill, this
gorgeous stadium has since been designated a National Historic
Landmark by the United States government. While the grounds itself
are nothing short of majestic, the building which houses them
underwent a $100 million renovation ten years back, transforming into
one of the most cutting-edge racecourses out there. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2 class="western">
Flemington, Melbourne, Australia</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Located in the
suburbs of Melbourne, Flemington is also a recognized historical
landmark, having hosted the most prestigious horse racing event in
Australia since 1840. The main event is, of course, the Melbourne
Cup, which sees millions and millions of dollars wagered every year
on this single momentous day. The event takes place in November every
year, with celebrities, royalty, and regular racegoers all keenly
<a href="https://www.oddschecker.com/au/horse-racing/melbourne-cup">keeping
track of the latest odds on sites like Oddschecker</a> to try
and make it their turn to win a million-dollar payoff. The event is
quite fittingly known as "the race that stops the nation",
as all eyes will be on Flemington come November. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSRfjgBMKKSp0DMW80_fRUStD-EOhKvnVQm-dWFOcTALkE4x5d3aamrz7mfR1jO8k4yCOWV-qKRN10yWHv5HVyBtwC3k99czYsgw4buJFJFZn_8XaHkXju9_igikx-8ew6z5Z5inM3yg/s1600/sienna-1715702_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSRfjgBMKKSp0DMW80_fRUStD-EOhKvnVQm-dWFOcTALkE4x5d3aamrz7mfR1jO8k4yCOWV-qKRN10yWHv5HVyBtwC3k99czYsgw4buJFJFZn_8XaHkXju9_igikx-8ew6z5Z5inM3yg/s320/sienna-1715702_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Source: <em><a href="https://pixabay.com/en/sienna-italy-piazza-del-campo-tilt-1715702/"><span style="color: blue;"><u>Pixabay</u></span></a></em></div>
<br />
<h2 class="western">
Piazza del Campo, Siena, Italy</h2>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Definitely one
of the more unique entries on this list, given the age and location
of the racecourse. Set in the ancient heart of the gorgeous city of
Siena, this track acts as one of the city's central squares for most
of the year. However, twice a year this oval-shaped piazza becomes
the epicenter of the biggest sporting event in Italy, the Palio di
Siena, where the best thoroughbreds in Europe flock to race it out
among the throngs of screaming crowds. The race has been taking place
here since at least the 14th century, and some would argue that
the manic energy and indescribable buzz hasn't changed a bit since
then. </div>
<br />
<h2 class="western">
Happy Valley, Hong Kong</h2>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
A day spent at
Happy Valley is a racing experience like no other. Set in the heart
of the megacity of Hong Kong, this open-air racecourse is surrounded
on all sides by the dense apartment blocks and office buildings which
characterize this iconic city. <a href="https://www.hkmemory.hk/collections/hkjc/racecourse/index.html">Happy
Valley was first constructed back in 1845</a> to provide
entertainment to the colonial British administrators who then ran the
island of Hong Kong, and the old-world character remains to this day.
Given the largely uninhabitable and hilly terrain of Hong Kong, this
spot was one of the only viable places to build a racecourse. Since
then, the city has sprung up around it, making for one of the most
interesting backdrops to a horserace you'll ever see.</div>
<br />
<h2 class="western">
Greyville, Durban, South Africa</h2>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Despite the
name, a day out at the Greyville racecourse is always a colorful
affair. Although home to some of the most prestigious racing events
in South Africa, you can also expect to see plenty of hawkers selling
delicious food on the grounds as well as some of the most affordable
beer around. The site has existed in one form or another since 1843,
and since then virtually every member of the British royal family has
paid homage to this site by participating in race day festivities.
The backdrop is also stunning, with views of the entire skyline of
Durban visible from the grandstands. To make the most of these unique
views, make sure to go there just as the sun begins to set and
the light reflects off the colorful skyscrapers of downtown.</div>
<br />
<h2 class="western">
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England</h2>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Cheltenham is
another prestigious center of British horseracing, a place where the
elite of the country has congregated for the annual Cheltenham
Festival for over two hundred years. Set within the heart of the
Cotswolds, the gargantuan 68,000 seater racecourse hosts more Grade I
horse races than anywhere else on Earth and gives out more prize
money than any event bar the Kentucky Derby. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hVi2EcqiHzubW6FXDhSveZo4kc2yuVMLFzF1Mq6NjjwAoaVa41lvxgLYXRbznL7saFVuc_ogmRnNYf8F3e_8f4S4RGzg5LFqFEWfCFxV5jWYaR4INwoGU74yavIFpB6QaUzBuXoE8jo/s1600/longchamp-1979296_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1280" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hVi2EcqiHzubW6FXDhSveZo4kc2yuVMLFzF1Mq6NjjwAoaVa41lvxgLYXRbznL7saFVuc_ogmRnNYf8F3e_8f4S4RGzg5LFqFEWfCFxV5jWYaR4INwoGU74yavIFpB6QaUzBuXoE8jo/s320/longchamp-1979296_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Source: <em><a href="https://pixabay.com/en/longchamp-horse-race-1979296/"><span style="color: blue;"><u>Pixabay</u></span></a></em></div>
<br />
<h2 class="western">
Meydan, Dubai, United Arab Emirates</h2>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
If places like
Cheltenham and Ascot represent the old world of horseracing, then the
Meydan represents the new world. This towering, jaw-dropping
structure was completed just a few years ago and exists in truly
Dubai fashion. The ultra-modern venue is home to a 5-star luxury
hotel, a marina, a nine-hole golf course and a conference
center, all spread out over a whopping 7.5 million square meters,
making it one of the largest racecourses in the world. </div>
<br />
<h2 class="western">
Tokyo Racecourse, Tokyo, Japan</h2>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
The Tokyo
racecourse opened in 1933, and the art-deco influences of the era are
still clearly visible today. The space itself is awe-inspiring, with
enough room to fit over 200,000 racing fans, often being packed to
capacity on big race days such as <a href="https://www.scmp.com/article/736012/new-incentives-add-spice-asian-mile-challenge">those
in the prestigious Asian Mile Challenge</a>. The racecourse is also
kitted out with sushi restaurants, saki bars, and ramen stands so you
can get your Japanese cultural fix in one spot.</div>
<br />
<h2 class="western">
Longchamp, Paris, France</h2>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
Opened in 1857,
the Longchamp racecourse in Paris probably wins the award for the
most stunning racecourse on Earth, featuring perfectly-manicured
grounds and some truly palatial interior design dating from the
height of the Belle Epoque period. It is home to what is arguably the
most prestigious horse racing event in Europe, the Prix de L'Arc de
Triomphe, which sees the great and good from across the continent
flocking to this space to taking part in the most high-stakes racing
around.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.18cm; margin-top: 0.18cm;">
All racecourses
have an innate attraction, given the festivity and fun they are
associated with. Some, however, are better than others, and a
trip to one of the ones listed above is an experience you'll never
forget.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-45362592604522486132018-08-26T21:08:00.003+01:002023-07-27T14:44:20.112+01:004.35 Ripon, Monday, August 27
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><br />Gulf
Of Poets </b>with an opportunity to resume winning ways. Michael
Easterby’s 6-year-old hasn’t been seen since June, presumably
because of the protracted spell of fine weather, but, with the going
at Ripon already good and rain forecast, may finally have underfoot
conditions in his favour. He’s won a couple of times on good
ground, in any case, so he should be fine even if the ground doesn’t
soften appreciably.
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Obviously, an absence of 114 days is a
slight worry, but the Oasis Dream gelding won on his reappearance
this season and last, so probably doesn’t need that much
preparation. He’s 1lb higher in the weights than when third, beaten
two necks, behind Original Choice in a similar race at Wetherby last
time and, consequently, 4lb worse off with the second, Hayadh.
However, while Rebecca Bastiman’s 5-year-old ran a little better
over course and distance nine days ago, he has still failed to
trouble the judge in four starts since, so it would be no great
surprise if Gulf Of Poets reversed the form on this occasion.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Gulf Of Poets is drawn in stall nine of
ten, which isn’t ideal on a course that typically favours low-drawn
front runners, but his overall level of form is high and jockey
Nathan Evans knows him well enough to have him in the right place at
the right time.
</div>
<br />
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<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Selection</b>: Ripon 4.35 <b>Gulf Of
Poets</b> to win 6/1</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-4297897048575213152018-07-23T20:41:00.002+01:002023-07-27T14:44:14.968+01:007.40 Leicester, Wednesday, July 25<b><br />Welliesinthwater</b> is hardly the most topical selection, but
Derek Shaw’s five-year-old appeared admirably suited by rattling
fast ground when winning at Doncaster last month and still looks
feasibly weighted on his best form. So far, the son of
Footstepsinthesand has reserved his best form for the South Yorkshire
course, where he’s won three times, but needed every yard of 7
furlongs on Town Moor last time, so this stiffer test of stamina
should play to his strengths. Indeed, he’s won a couple of times
over a mile on the Polytrack at Chelmsford and ran respectably on his
most recent effort over this course and distance, just over a year
ago, so 7 furlongs on this galloping, testing track could be just
what he needs at this stage of his career.
<br />
Granted the current heatwave,
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
On his last visit here, he finished a
never-nearer fifth of eight, beaten 4½ lengths, in a 0-95 contest
off a handicap mark of 89. A 5lb rise for winning at Doncaster still
only takes back up to a mark of 78, so it’s difficult to argue that
he’s not well handicapped if he retains most of his old ability. He
was fifth of 15, beaten just 2 lengths, in a 0-95 contest over 7
furlongs – albeit, once again, at Doncaster – off a handicap mark
just 1lb lower as recently as June this year, so there’s every
reason to believe that he does.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Selection</b>: Leicester 7.40
<b>Welliesinthewater</b> to win 5/1</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-61559919649991352662018-07-03T17:38:00.002+01:002023-07-27T14:44:04.736+01:005.20 Thirsk, Wednesday, July 4
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The Watch Racing UK on BT TV Handicap
(5.20) at Thirsk on Wednesday isn’t a great race, even allowing for
the 0-70 grade, but <b>Jessinamillion</b> appeared to appreciate his
first experience of the North Yorkshire course just over two weeks
ago and may be able to build on that effort in first-time blinkers.
From the family of Primo Dominie, James Bethell’s four-year-old
showed his first form of the season when fourth of 15, beaten 2¾
lengths, behind Fyrecracker over course and distance last time.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It’s fair to say that the form hasn’t
really worked out, with the first and second both beaten in the 0-65
contest won by Munthany at Wetherby 12 days ago. However, off a
handicap mark of 65 – his lowest ever – with the possibility of
the headgear eking out a little further improvement, Jessinamillion
looks worth a chance to confirm the promise of his previous course
and distance effort. He’s only had 10 races in total and remains
unexposed over 7 furlongs on a sharp or fairly sharp track, so while
he’ll never set the world on fire he still retains at least a
little potential.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
James Bethell has a fairly dire 3-38
(8%) strike rate at Thirsk over the last five seasons and jockey
Andrew Elliott is 0-7 for the yard in that period, so the statistics
provide little succour. On the upside, though, as a horse from a yard
with a poor record at the course, Jessinamillion may well be
underestimated by the bookmakers.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Selection</b>: Thirsk 5.20
<b>Jessinamillion</b> to win 6/1</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-577716123217195419.post-74108119922980925092018-06-25T22:28:00.004+01:002023-07-27T14:43:58.445+01:003.40 Salisbury, Wednesday, June 27
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In the Coors Molson Handicap (3.40) at
Salisbury on Wednesday, <b>Mr Top Hat</b> has yet to win beyond 6
furlongs, but both his pedigree and style of racing suggest that
stepping up to a mile won’t do him any harm. On his most recent
outing, over the testing 7 furlongs at Sandown, he led at a good pace
and, although readily held by the winner, Rum Runner, he kept on well
to finish second, beaten 1¼ lengths. His previous form, over 6
furlongs at Leicester – another testing track – has worked out
well, with the winner, Gabrial The Saint, far from disgraced in a hot
0-105 handicap at York and the second and fourth, Elnadim Star and
Airshow, winning next time.
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
David Evans’ three-year-old steps
back up to 0-100 level off a handicap mark 1lb higher than at Sandown
but, while his sole win came on heavy going here last October, he
appears fully effective on the prevailing good to firm going, so he
must have a decent chance of regaining the winning thread. Jockey
Fran Berry has a fair, if unspectacular, 11-52 (21%) strike rate on
three-year-olds for the yard over the last five seasons, for a
healthy level stakes profit of 25.25 points. Hopefully, the Kildarian
can steer Mr Top Hat to a second course win.
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Selection</b>: Salisbury 3.40 <b>Mr
Top Hat</b> to win 4/1</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0