Betfair Hurdle News: Bowler loosens up for Newbury date

Swing Bowler will make her seasonal reappearance at Newbury on Saturday in the Betfair Hurdle before a likely tilt at the Mares' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival..

Swing Bowler will make her seasonal reappearance at Newbury on Saturday in the Betfair Hurdle before a likely tilt at the Mares' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival...

Third behind My Tent Or Yours in the showpiece handicap last year, David Pipe's useful seven-year-old will race off just a 2 lb higher mark at the weekend.

Swing Bowler headed to Cheltenham to tackle Quevega after her fine run at Newbury 12 months ago, but was beaten a long way out, which Pipe put down to her stamina being stretched on the soft ground.

The daughter of top-class racemare Lady Cricket, and half-sister to the unbeaten Red Sherlock, will be running in new colours for the first time following the death of owner-breeder David Johnson.

"The plan is to go for the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury on Saturday and then onto the OLBG Mares' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival," Pipe told OLBG.com.

"She did not quite get the trip last year (at Cheltenham) but she is stronger this year and as long as the ground is not too soft, then that should give her a better chance."

Timeform's Matt Gardner fancies Swing Bowler to run a big race in the Betfair Hurdle and you can read his preview of the valuable handicap HERE.

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1000 Guineas News: Queen to start at Newbury

The William Haggas-trained filly was unbeaten in four outings last year, winning the Lowther Stakes at York and the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket on her final two runs...

Johnny Murtagh is set to partner 1000 Guineas contender Rosdhu Queen as she makes her seasonal bow at Newbury on Saturday week...

The William Haggas-trained filly was unbeaten in four outings last year, winning the Lowther Stakes at York and the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket on her final two runs.

Rosdhu Queen was ridden by Murtagh on the latter occasion and Haggas will give him the leg up again as the daughter of Invincible Spirit tackles the Dubai Duty Free Stakes, a race better know as the Fred Darling.

Haggas said: "Johnny Murtagh will be offered the ride on her in the Guineas. He'll come and ride her next weekend in the Fred Darling and we'll see how that goes."

Haggas also has once-raced Lady Nouf in the 1000 Guineas picture, with the Leicester winner set to head to Newmarket for the  Nell Gwyn Stakes.

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Product reviews and advice for best reference

Nick Shiambouros' Patented 80/20 Bet: Newbury, 14:35

Nick Shiambouros builds a strong case for backing today's 80/20 at Newbury...

Today's 80/20 is Brick Tops in the 14:35 at Newbury. This Danehill Dancer filly beat Hawks Reef at Doncaster last November. She cruised in to the lead a furlong from home and pulled clear to win with plenty in hand. I think she is open to considerable improvement and will handle the underfoot conditions today. She could run well at a big price in this high class event. At present she is trading at 15.014/1 on the exchange.

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Newbury Placepot: Saturday April 21

Bronterre's fourth in last season's Dewhurst makes him a strong player in the Greenham...

Timeform's Joe Szekeres heads to Newbury to offer his placepot permutation for this afternoon's card...

13:30 - Noble Mission is a horse of immediate hype given his full-brother status to Frankel but that does not detract from the quality he demonstrated on debut at Yarmouth towards the tail-end of last season. Noble Mission was poorly positioned that day and had to be waited with on the stand side, but he still travelled through his race with notable fluency and, despite having little chance with the winner, saw off some other well-bred types inside the closing stages. It's never wise to advise a banker in a maiden, and this is no exception, so we're also going to side with Cappielow Park who achieved a similar level of form to Noble Mission during a race at Wolverhampton last season.

14:00 - The second leg looks an race of the high quality and the 2010 St Leger winner, Arctic Cosmos, looks the one to beat if anything near his best. He should have no problem with the one-and-a-half-mile trip having demonstrated plenty of speed on his seasonal reappearance over ten furlongs at Kempton last time. The main danger could be Harris Tweed, the next best based on Timeform ratings. William Haggas has been in good form of late and Harris Tweed is another that can go well for him.

14:35 - Best Terms looks banker material in the next given her stature at the head of the ratings, considered 13 lb superior to her nearest rival. Best Terms was one of the leading juvenile fillies last season, landing the Group 2 Queen Mary at Royal Ascot and the Group 2 Lowther Stakes, form well in advance of anything the opposing field should be capable of.

15:10 - Bronterre's fourth in last season's Dewhurst makes him a strong player in the Greenham and he should be capable of surpassing that level of form this year if he has learnt to settle over the winter. The main danger would have been Top Offer but his late withdrawal and the fact that two places still pay make Bronterre banker material.

15:45 - Mull of Killough is likely to be overbet having flown at the finish in last month's Lincoln Handicap and there is a feeling that he missed a big opportunity on that occasion. One that finished behind Mull of Killough is Fury, who travelled as good as any for much of the way and was denied a clear run at a crucial stage before sticking on well. He looks the type to make progress this season and could be ahead of his mark. Others worthy of inclusion are Captain Bertie, who is Timeform top-rated, and Dubawi Sound, who could be much better than his current BHA Mark gives credit for and features in Timeform Horses to Follow 2012.

16:20 - Another maiden to end the card and the pair we're going to take are Minimise Risk, who shaped with great promise on debut at Doncaster last time and King of Dudes, who really caught the eye when beaten into second at Wolverhampton towards the end of last year. The pair should be enough if we progress this far and there is always the chance of a double-up.

Selections:

13:30 - 2, 9
14:00 - 3, 6
14:35 - 1
15:10 - 2
15:45 - 1, 12, 18
16:20 - 3, 5
=24 Lines

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Looking for expert advice and analysis on the Scottish National meeting at Ayr? Click HERE to download the latest edition of HTF Extra.

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Newbury Veterans' Chase: Saturday no final farewell for Hello Bud

News / Timeform / 02 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Seamus Murphy's Hello Bud

"While the owner stated the trip of three miles and two and a half furlongs may be a bit short for his horse on good ground, he added that Hello Bud has been going well at home."

Likeable 14-year-old Hello Bud bids to roll back the year's in the staying veterans' chase at Newbury on Saturday and put himself under consideration for the Grand National at Aintree on April 14...

Nigel Twiston-Davies' Hello Bud will be at least two years older than any of his nine rivals in the Support Greatwood Veterans' Handicap Chase as he goes in pursuit of his first victory since scooping Aintree's Becher Chase in 2010.

For a while it appeared as if he might repeat the feat just before Christmas, jumping with his usual enthusiasm and still going sweetly when unseating regular partner Sam Twiston-Davies at the Canal Turn.

His owner Seamus Murphy recently expressed himself pleased with both that effort and his fifth in the Classic Chase at Warwick last time but hopes his 130-rated chaser can get his head in front this time.

While the owner stated the trip of three miles and two and a half furlongs may be a bit short for his horse on good ground, he added that Hello Bud has been going well at home.

While Grand National entry Niche Market heads the Timeform ratings for the race, it's Alan King-trained Blazing Bailey who heads the weights.

Blazing Bailey, who only just qualifies for a veteran's race being ten-years-old, ran to a career high chase rating of 147 when winning at Ffos Las in February last year but has failed to make an impression in any of his races since.

However, for all that he's not shone recently, he has conested the Hennessy, Welsh National and Warwick's Classic Chase on his three most recent outings and is now down to a BHA rating 4 lb lower than his last winning one.

Philip Hobbs' Fair Along, another with a Grand National engagement, and former Summer National scorer Ouzbeck, from the in-form Emma Lavelle yard, are also amongst the 10-runner field.

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Timeform ratings were in great form last Saturday! Among 5 top-rated winners at Kempton was Nacarat (BSP [5.58]). Click HERE for today's cards & ratings.

Owner Terry Warner is hoping Pasco's affinity for the Berkshire track will stand him in good stead in Saturday's two-and-a-half-mile handicap chase due off at 15:10......

Grand National hope Backstage is injured and out for the rest of the season......

Timeform look ahead to a weekend featuring a number of Grand National hopefuls running at Newbury and Kelso on Saturday, as well as quality Irish and International action on Sunday......

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Timeform Daily: Greatwood Gold Cup, Saturday, Newbury 15:10

Race of the Day / Timeform / 02 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Newbury hosts the Greatwood Gold Cup on Saturday.

"An open contest in which it might be worth chancing last year's winner Fine Parchment , who has slipped back to a decent mark..."

Timeform provide a runner-by-runner guide to the Greatwood Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday...

Woolcombe Folly confirmed himself a high-class 2m chaser last term, but below form this winter, including when stepped up to this sort of trip latest. Bit to prove at present.

Mad Max was a smart chaser at best, but has had various breathing operations and again found little on reappearance for new yard last time. Sounder surface here should suit but comes with obvious risks attached.

Aerial made a winning start for yard at Wincanton last February and improved again this term, winning 6-runner event at Ascot in between 2 solid efforts in Cheltenham handicaps. Set to go well again.

Crescent Island ran a blinder to be runner-up over C&D in November, but followed that with poor display at Cheltenham, and worse still when reluctant and pulled up last twice. One to treat with caution.

Dave's Dream has not progressed since winning 2m Cheltenham handicap on 2010/11 reappearance, and didn't go with much zest last time. Conditions should suit, but first-time blinkers need to spark revival.

Dan Breen won twice over fences last season, rounding off with good third in Grade 1 at Aintree, but not gone with any fluency in 2 starts this term, and cheekpieces tried now.

Araldur is a very useful chaser who showed he's as good as ever when runner-up at Wetherby on reappearance. Below best twice since, though better than result at Cheltenham latest, headway until late mistakes.

Pasco is a smart chaser up to 2½m, and goes particularly well at this track, runner-up in this 2 years go. Needs to bounce back from tame display last time but likely been trained with this race in mind.

Passato racked up a 4-timer during the early part of last season, and back to form when in the frame here and at Ascot this season. Below best latest, though, and others preferred for win purposes.

Pickamus is a front runner who was badly out of sorts last season, but returned in much better heart when length second in Stratford handicap. Respectable effort from out of weights latest, and place claims.

Fix The Rib is a front runner who showed smart form to win at Ascot in late-2009. Not as good now, but showed some ability remains when solid third of 14 in Kempton handicap last time, though others preferred here.

Fine Parchment had productive time last season, taking form up another notch when landing this race last year. Only 3 lb higher now, and given time to get over laboured effort latest, so needs consideration.

Rileyev improved this term, following win here (17f) with good second at Cheltenham in December. Not in same form last few starts, however, and opposable up in trip from 3 lb out of weights.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Fine Parchment
2. Pasco
3. Aerial

Timeform Verdict: An open contest in which it might be worth chancing last year's winner Fine Parchment, who has slipped back to a decent mark. Pasco tends to save his best for this track and needs respecting, with consistent stablemate Aerial another to consider.

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Timeform ratings were in great form last Saturday! Among 5 top-rated winners at Kempton was Nacarat (BSP [5.58]). Click HERE for today's cards & ratings.

Timeform run the rule over an open-looking handicap chase for novices at Newbury......

Timeform give you a runner-by-runner guide to the Group 2 Zabeel Mile at Meydan on Thursday.......

Timeform take a look at the three-mile Forbra Gold Challenge Cup at Ludlow on Thursday......

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Course specialist Pasco to go well again at Newbury on Saturday?

News / Timeform / 02 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Newbury Racecourse

"Warner reported how they have had to wait for better going for Pasco..."

Owner Terry Warner is hoping Pasco's affinity for the Berkshire track will stand him in good stead in Saturday's two-and-a-half-mile handicap chase due off at 15:10...

Swiss-bred Pasco, rated 140 over fences by Timeform but also having a 'squiggle' (indicates suspect temperament), has won three times at Newbury and also finished runner-up to Big Fella Thanks and Mount Oscar in course-and-distance handicaps since March 2010.

The roan nine-year-old, trained by Betfair columnist Paul Nicholls, has not won since taking a Huntingdon novice chase in February 2009 but has been in the frame on all of his last seven completed starts.

However, Pasco was off the track for 10 months prior to returning this winter (had breathing op in interim) and when it's considered that the better of his two efforts was when last of four to Time For Rupert in three-mile a minor event at Newbury, it's clear that he's going to have to bounce back to his best to be competitive.

Warner reported how they have had to wait for better going for Pasco and that he is a lightly-raced horse, presumably owing to physical problems that have meant he has been hard to train.

Mad Max is another horse that goes well at Newbury, though his trio of wins were in a pair of bumpers and over hurdles when he was trained by Nicky Henderson.

Now in the care of Neil Mulholland, the 10-year-old, who's career has been plagued by wind problems, was well below form when third to Giorgio Quercus at Haydock on his first outing since the stable switch.

While his new trainer believes the the track and the good ground will suit him, he looks up against it.

Timeform top-rated is Fine Parchment, winner of the race 12 months ago, and his trainer Charlie Mann is confident the 138-rated chaser can follow up though admitting that the horse had felt pretty sorry for himself for a while after getting stuck in the mud on Aintree in December.

Of the others, Gary Moore feels Fix The Rib would prefer to go right-handed, Henry Daly is saddling Pickamus as he's not guaranteed to get in at Cheltenham, and Jo Davis believes Passato has got plenty on his plate.

Alan King has expressed how Araldur is the biggest horse is his yard and, therefore, will enjoy the course at Newbury better than he did the undulations at Cheltenham.

Full betting for the is now available for the Barbury International Supporting Greatwood Gold Cup Handicap Chase by clicking HERE.

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Timeform ratings were in great form last Saturday! Among 5 top-rated winners at Kempton was Nacarat (BSP [5.58]). Click HERE for today's cards & ratings.

Likeable 14-year-old Hello Bud bids to roll back the year's in the staying veterans' chase at Newbury on Saturday and put himself under consideration for the Grand National at Aintree on April 14......

Grand National hope Backstage is injured and out for the rest of the season......

Timeform look ahead to a weekend featuring a number of Grand National hopefuls running at Newbury and Kelso on Saturday, as well as quality Irish and International action on Sunday......

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Betfair Denman Chase Result: Long Run passes test at Newbury

News / Timeform / 17 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Long Run wins the Denman Chase

"That was just what we wanted. I was really pleased with his jumping."

Long Run's connections declared themselves thoroughly satisfied after the Cheltenham Gold Cup hero continued his Festival preparations with a workmanlike victory at Newbury.

After defeating old warriors Denman and Kauto Star in the blue riband last March, it seemed Nicky Henderson's seven-year-old was ready to dominate the staying chase division for years to come.

Things have not gone exactly to script for the Timeform 182-rated chaser though, with a rejuvenated Kauto Star rediscovering his very best form and galloping Long Run into submission in the Betfair Chase at Haydock and the King George VI Chase at Kempton.

But with the legendary staying chaser heading straight to the Festival, Long Run had a gilt-edged chance to get back to winning ways in the rescheduled Betfair Denman Chase.

And for much of the three-mile journey, all went swimmingly.

Jockey Sam Waley-Cohen was happy to take a lead off The Giant Bolster and when that one weakened, [1.73] favourite Long Run eased to the front.

But stablemate Burton Port, making his first start since running to a much-improved figure when second in the 2010 Hennessy, and the enigmatic What A Friend made ground to make a real race of it after the final fence.

Burton Port in particular ran a fantastic race, trading at an in-running low of [2.94] (Betfair SP of [10.50]), and got to within half a length of Long Run at the line - albeit in receipt of 10lb.

Waley-Cohen said: "That was just what we wanted.

"I was really pleased with his jumping. He was a little careless with the water (jump), but apart from that he's jumped really well. You couldn't ask for more from a seasoned chaser.

"That is exactly the confidence boost you want to go to the Gold Cup with.

"We took the earplugs out but I'm not sure that made a big difference. In a funny way, he felt like a different horse altogether today. In the paddock he was more alert and looking more up for it and he's just gone out there and done it really well.

"We went a right good gallop and, if anything, I think we've learnt how to set him up for a fence when you are going that big quicker."

Henderson added: "Sam said there was loads there and he was enjoying himself.

"He jumped great and he's taken him there tanking on the bit. He was much more fluent today.

"Burton Port has been amazing us all. He will run in the Gold Cup as well and he's been working completely differently to two years ago. He's a stone better than he ever was before."

Robert Waley-Cohen, the jockey's father and winning owner, said: "It's a huge relief. We were giving a lot of weight to some very good horses.

"He did it really well and jumped absolutely fantastically. Hopefully we can do away with the careless jumping now for the rest of his career.

"I couldn't be happier as he was giving 10l b to some good horses and he will be meeting them at level weights (in the Gold Cup).

"Does he need to improve to beat Kauto Star? It's hard to tell. It's a different trip. He beat Kauto Star last year, maybe it's a different Kauto Star that's going to turn up this year.

"On that performance you would say Long Run and Kauto Star are the two that are going to be battling it out up the famous hill at Cheltenham.

"Sam said he was idling today and there was plenty left.

"He looked a far bouncier and happier horse in the paddock."

Long Run now trades at [3.55] in his bid to retain his Gold Cup crown, while Burton Port has unsurprisingly been supported in to [13.5].

Burton Port is also now [19.0] for the Grand National having previously traded at a whopping [280.0].
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Timeform's Horses to Follow Extra Ascot Chase issue is out now and features no less than six big-race previews and an interview with Alan King.

Last week the world's highest Timeform rated sprinter Black Caviar (135+) put to rest any doubts about her handling 1400m with an emphatic victory in the G1 C F Orr Stakes at Caulfield however on Saturday she faces a new challenge....

With a big weekend of action 'Down Under', Timeform Radio brings you another international racing preview......

Champion Hurdle hopeful Zarkandar landed Newbury's Betfair Hurdle on Friday, whilst Long Run got back to winning ways and Sprinter Sacre enhanced his already lofty reputation......

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Donald McCain: Delighted with Our Mick's run at Newbury

Donald McCain / Donald McCain / 17 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Ballabriggs is due to have a racecourse gallop at Haydock on Saturday.

"I think today proved that he [Our Mick] was crying out for a step up to 3m and he is going to be one to follow when he gets his chance over further....."

Donald didn't hit the target at Newbury on Friday but he was thrilled with Our Mick's third in the Grade 1 novice chase.

I didn't make it to Newbury this afternoon but I enjoyed watching it at home and I was pleased with the way that both Desert Cry and Our Mick ran in their respective races.

I am convinced Desert Cry has one of these big handicap hurdles in him but every time I run him in a big field, they end up going no gallop. That doesn't suit him at all and although he briefly threatened to make a move turning into the straight, the others were quickening ahead of him as well.

He will get things run to suit him one day and he will show what he can do then.

I was delighted with Our Mick upped to Grade 1 company and he continues to look more professional with each run. I think today proved that he was crying out for a step up to 3m and he is going to be one to follow when he gets his chance over further.

Obviously the win of Sprinter Sacre was watched with interest here and you have to say he was mightily impressive. He did beat handicappers though - albeit very good handicappers - and he was a long odds-on favourite - that was how he was supposed to win, wasn't it?!

In all seriousness, he is clearly a very talented novice but, whatever was said in the aftermath, it will be a different test in the Arkle and we are heading to Cheltenham with a horse who has been there and done it all before.

Peddlers Cross continues his rehabilitation and is in grand form again at home - we can just get on quietly with him while all the attention is now focussed on Nicky Henderson!

We've got some nice young horses in action over the weekend, particularly at Haydock, but it's also a big day for Ballabriggs who is due to have a gallop after racing. Assuming everything goes to plan, it's then on to Kelso early next month.

The Grand National weights came out in the week and there were plenty of people who were keen to point out that Weird Al was 5lb clear top-rated with Timeform. Ballabriggs has been there and done it all before though - how does that experience offset a few pounds here and there?

With the Grand National weights announced this morning, read Donald's thoughts on his three entrants here....

'Bumpers for jumpers' is the theme at Southwell on Sunday and Donald has runners in five of the races on the card....

Donald has a strong team assembled for Musselburgh's rescheduled fixture on Saturday....

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Betfair Denman Chase Result: Long Run passes test at Newbury

News / Timeform / 17 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Long Run wins the Denman Chase

"That was just what we wanted. I was really pleased with his jumping."

Long Run's connections declared themselves thoroughly satisfied after the Cheltenham Gold Cup hero continued his Festival preparations with a workmanlike victory at Newbury.

After defeating old warriors Denman and Kauto Star in the blue riband last March, it seemed Nicky Henderson's seven-year-old was ready to dominate the staying chase division for years to come.

Things have not gone exactly to script for the Timeform 182-rated chaser though, with a rejuvenated Kauto Star rediscovering his very best form and galloping Long Run into submission in the Betfair Chase at Haydock and the King George VI Chase at Kempton.

But with the legendary staying chaser heading straight to the Festival, Long Run had a gilt-edged chance to get back to winning ways in the rescheduled Betfair Denman Chase.

And for much of the three-mile journey, all went swimmingly.

Jockey Sam Waley-Cohen was happy to take a lead off The Giant Bolster and when that one weakened, [1.73] favourite Long Run eased to the front.

But stablemate Burton Port, making his first start since running to a much-improved figure when second in the 2010 Hennessy, and the enigmatic What A Friend made ground to make a real race of it after the final fence.

Burton Port in particular ran a fantastic race, trading at an in-running low of [2.94] (Betfair SP of [10.50]), and got to within half a length of Long Run at the line - albeit in receipt of 10lb.

Waley-Cohen said: "That was just what we wanted.

"I was really pleased with his jumping. He was a little careless with the water (jump), but apart from that he's jumped really well. You couldn't ask for more from a seasoned chaser.

"That is exactly the confidence boost you want to go to the Gold Cup with.

"We took the earplugs out but I'm not sure that made a big difference. In a funny way, he felt like a different horse altogether today. In the paddock he was more alert and looking more up for it and he's just gone out there and done it really well.

"We went a right good gallop and, if anything, I think we've learnt how to set him up for a fence when you are going that big quicker."

Henderson added: "Sam said there was loads there and he was enjoying himself.

"He jumped great and he's taken him there tanking on the bit. He was much more fluent today.

"Burton Port has been amazing us all. He will run in the Gold Cup as well and he's been working completely differently to two years ago. He's a stone better than he ever was before."

Robert Waley-Cohen, the jockey's father and winning owner, said: "It's a huge relief. We were giving a lot of weight to some very good horses.

"He did it really well and jumped absolutely fantastically. Hopefully we can do away with the careless jumping now for the rest of his career.

"I couldn't be happier as he was giving 10l b to some good horses and he will be meeting them at level weights (in the Gold Cup).

"Does he need to improve to beat Kauto Star? It's hard to tell. It's a different trip. He beat Kauto Star last year, maybe it's a different Kauto Star that's going to turn up this year.

"On that performance you would say Long Run and Kauto Star are the two that are going to be battling it out up the famous hill at Cheltenham.

"Sam said he was idling today and there was plenty left.

"He looked a far bouncier and happier horse in the paddock."

Long Run now trades at [3.55] in his bid to retain his Gold Cup crown, while Burton Port has unsurprisingly been supported in to [13.5].

Burton Port is also now [19.0] for the Grand National having previously traded at a whopping [280.0].
...........
Timeform's Horses to Follow Extra Ascot Chase issue is out now and features no less than six big-race previews and an interview with Alan King.

Last week the world's highest Timeform rated sprinter Black Caviar (135+) put to rest any doubts about her handling 1400m with an emphatic victory in the G1 C F Orr Stakes at Caulfield however on Saturday she faces a new challenge....

With a big weekend of action 'Down Under', Timeform Radio brings you another international racing preview......

Champion Hurdle hopeful Zarkandar landed Newbury's Betfair Hurdle on Friday, whilst Long Run got back to winning ways and Sprinter Sacre enhanced his already lofty reputation......

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Betfair Free Friday Results: Zarkandar makes winning return at Newbury

News / Timeform / 17 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Zarkandar (centre) won the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury

"Running from a BHA mark of 151, last season's Triumph Hurdle winner looked potentially thrown-in..."

Champion Hurdle hopeful Zarkandar landed Newbury's Betfair Hurdle on Friday, whilst Long Run got back to winning ways and Sprinter Sacre enhanced his already lofty reputation...

Turning into the Newbury straight, Zarkandar did not look the most likely winner, with jockey Ruby Walsh asking the five-year-old to try and pick the leaders up. Emerging between rivals at the final flight, Zarkandar's stamina really came into evidence, and he gradually asserted his authority on the field.

Running from a BHA mark of 151, last season's Triumph Hurdle winner looked potentially thrown-in, but the dawdling early pace was unlikely to play to his strengths. Darlan, under Tony McCoy, was arguably travelling best turning for home but took a crashing fall at the third-last, hampering eventual runner-up Get Me Out of Here, with Raya Star and Sire de Grugy filling the remaining places.

Zarkandar is sure to improve for this seasonal return and can presently be backed at [7.4] for the Champion Hurdle.

The Nicky Hednerson-trained Long Run, winner of the King George and Gold Cup last season, gained his first win of the term in the Betfair Denman Chase as he beat stable mate Burton Port, returning from over a year on the sidelines, and What A Friend into second and third respectively.

Long Run had come up against a resurgent Kauto Star on his two previous starts this season, in the Betfair Chase and the King George, but with that opponent not in the line-up he managed to get back to winning ways.

Long Run heads the Gold Cup market at [3.55], whilst Burton Port, who put up an excellent performance on his return, is available at [13.0] and What A Friend at [50.0].

Sprinter Sacre, also trained by Nicky Henderson, gained his third win from as many starts over fences when easily landing the Betfair Super Saturday Chase. He had been extremely impressive in his previous starts but, up against his elders, including French Opera and Hold Fast, this was expected to be a more thorough test.

However, Barry Geraghty was motionless throughout onboard Sprinter Sacre, the six-year-old simply strengthening his position at the head of the Arkle market at [2.36].
...........
Timeform's Horses to Follow Extra Ascot Chase issue is out now and features no less than six big-race previews and an interview with Alan King.

Last week the world's highest Timeform rated sprinter Black Caviar (135+) put to rest any doubts about her handling 1400m with an emphatic victory in the G1 C F Orr Stakes at Caulfield however on Saturday she faces a new challenge....

With a big weekend of action 'Down Under', Timeform Radio brings you another international racing preview......

Long Run's connections declared themselves thoroughly satisfied after the Cheltenham Gold Cup hero continued his Festival preparations with a workmanlike victory at Newbury....

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Betfair Super Saturday Chase: Sacre faces five at Newbury

News / Timeform / 16 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Newbury stages the Betfair Super Saturday Chase.

"He just has such scope and he can do extraordinary things..."

Sprinter Sacre steps out of novice company for the first time in the rescheduled Betfair Super Saturday Chase at Newbury on Friday...

The two-mile-one-furlong prize has attracted six runners, headed by this Nicky Henderson-trained superstar.

After turning in a superb round of jumping on his fencing debut at Doncaster, Sprinter Sacre pummelled Peddlers Cross at Kempton to leap to the head of the ante-post betting for the Arkle at Cheltenham next month.

"He's done what we've asked him and he was a very good novice hurdler, plus bumper horse plus everything," said Henderson.

"One always rather hoped that when he got jumping fences you might see something a bit special and he has been so far.

"He just has such scope and he can do extraordinary things."

Henderson has an interesting second string in French Opera, who won this race 12 months ago but has not been seen since winning last year's Celebration Chase at Sandown.

Perhaps Sprinter Sacre's biggest danger is Hold Fast, who earned this step up in class with a runaway victory in a Sandown handicap.

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls is keen to learn whether the eight-year-old is a serious contender for the Champion Chase.

"He's going the same route as Master Minded took in his first season - I'm not saying he's Master Minded or anything like that but Friday will tell us whether we go for the Champion Chase or the Grand Annual," said Nicholls.

"He'll improve, but Ruby (Walsh) keeps saying he needs to go right-handed, but then he used to keep saying that about Master Minded as well."

Zaynar comes back in distance having run well in an Ascot handicap last month, while I'm So Lucky looks up against it having run down the field in the VC Chase on the same afternoon.

Rank outsider Kinkeel completes the field.

Jessica Harrington has decided against running Steps To Freedom at Dundalk on Friday and he will now head straight to next month's Supreme Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham......

Last week the world's highest Timeform rated sprinter Black Caviar (135+) put to rest any doubts about her handling 1400m with an emphatic victory in the G1 C F Orr Stakes at Caulfield however on Saturday she faces a new challenge....

Leading RSA Chase fancy Last Instalment has been ruled out of the Cheltenham Festival with a leg injury......

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Timeform Daily: Betfair Hurdle, Friday, Newbury 13:15

Race of the Day / Timeform / 16 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Can Olofi (grey) win a very competitive handicap?

"Olofi looked unlucky over C&D last time and is preferred given he looks on a feasible mark

Timeform run the rule over an extremely competitive Betfair Handicap Hurdle, a race sure to provide plenty of future winners...

Brampour has been much improved this season, landing valuable handicaps at Ascot and Cheltenham before solid third in International. Below par in Ladbroke last time and needs to bounce back to figure from new mark.

Zarkandar was unbeaten as a juvenile hurdler last season. Triumph Hurdle win working out very well, and clearly feasibly treated from mark of 151. Big player if close to peak fitness on reappearance.

Get Me Out of Here was the winner of this race in 2010. Photo second in last season's County Hurdle, and good effort to chase home Oscar Whisky last time. Not out of this, but tendency to hang under pressure a concern.

Final Approach landed pair of valuable handicaps during 2010/11 and looks as good as ever this season. 11 lb higher than for last run in a handicap, but has a touch of class and enters calculations.

Soldatino completed hat-trick in 2010 Triumph Hurdle, and not discredited in 3 handicaps last season (including 5th in this race). This tough ask on seasonal debut, but could yet be capable of better.

Darlan is unbeaten after winning bumper at Haydock in April and trio of novice hurdles this season. Smart prospect, but harshly handicapped on what he's achieved, and landing this will be big achievement.

Via Galilei has done really well since being switched to handicaps, with solid placed efforts behind Brampour and Ubi Ace to his name this term. Excused latest effort and can hit the frame if back to best.

Sailors Warn was a useful juvenile hurdler last term and got back to winning ways in minor event at Limerick (2¼m) in October. Solid efforts 3 starts since, but may be vulnerable to better handicapped rivals.

Sire de Grugy had a fine first season over hurdles, win in 2m Kempton Grade 2 among 3 victories. Looked to need run at Chepstow on reappearance last month and better effort expected here.

Desert Cry improved when making winning return in Haydock handicap in November and ran creditably last 2 starts. Questionable how much he has in hand off this mark, but should give his running.

Third Intention took well to hurdles last season, and back in top form last time when second to Ranjaan at Taunton. Clear of the rest, this track may suit better, and interesting off same mark.

Empire Levant produced two sound C&D efforts this season, winning easily in November before splitting Rock On Ruby and Raya Star (form franked) 2 days later. Must improve again from 12 lb higher, but could well do so.

Alarazi was last season's Imperial Cup winner, and right back to best when beaten just ½ length by Raya Star in Ladbroke Hurdle. Below par next time though, and needs to bounce back.

Raya Star followed Wetherby win in October with creditable third over C&D (Empire Levant second). Improved to land Ladbroke Hurdle last time, and claims again here with likely stronger pace expected to suit.

Ciceron won a pair of handicaps at Taunton early in 2011, and landed a gamble when winning at Sandown last month. Non-stayer latest (19f), but shaped well and drop in trip will suit.

Olofi is a consistent handicapper over hurdles. Solid second to Brampour in the Greatwood and looked to be going best when falling at second last over C&D latest. More to come and leading contender.

Rigidity was useful on Flat and quickly established same level over hurdles, posting fine effort when second to Raya Star in Ladbroke. Below form over C&D last time and now fitted with first-time tongue tie.

Ericht was a dual bumper winner last season, including here. Ran into some smart opposition when third on first 2 starts over hurdles, but disappointing second (1/5f) last time and bit to prove from this mark.

Abergavenny is a three-time hurdles winner. Good 3 lengths third behind Brampour in Greatwood in November but below that level in Ladbroke Hurdle next time. Won 'jumpers bumper' at Southwell 5 days ago.

Double Ross' easily best effort came when making all to win novice hurdle by 14 lengths at Folkestone. Creditable efforts behind useful sorts last twice but 6 lbs out of handicap here and needs extra.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Olofi
2. Third Intention
3. Final Approach

Timeform View: Zarkandar clearly must be respected, but his fitness is an unknown and he could be worth taking on at the likely prices. Olofi looked unlucky over C&D last time and is preferred given he looks on a feasible mark. Third Intention and Final Approach head the list of many possible alternatives.

....................
Timeform's Horses to Follow Extra Ascot Chase issue is out now and features no less than six big-race previews and an interview with Alan King.

After three placed efforts, Master of Hounds bids to win his first race on Emirati soil in the Group 2 Al Fahidi Fort at Meydan, run over a mile on turf......

Timeform take a look at the runners for a competitive three-mile handicap chase at Leicester on Thursday afternoon......

Timeform provide a runner-by-runner preview to the Morebattle Hurdle at Kelso on Wednesday......

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Betfair Hurdle: Zarkandar to face 21 at Newbury

News / Timeform / 09 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Prospects for Betfair's Super Saturday card remain in the balance

"Zarkandar is Timeform top-rated..."

Despite doubts still lingering as to whether the meeting will beat the frost, a field of 22 has been declared for the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury on Saturday.

Only Sailors Warn and Orzare were taken out at the 48-hour stage for one of the richest hurdle races in Europe.

Paul Nicholls seems to hold all the aces with Triumph Hurdle winner Zarkandar making his seasonal reappearance under Ruby Walsh, who was given a last-minute reprieve from a suspension by the rescheduling of the Grade 1 Scilly Isles Novices' Chase from Sandown.

The top weight Brampour also hails from Nicholls' yard, as does Daryl Jacob's mount, Empire Levant.

With Edward O'Grady deciding against bringing Sailors Warn, Irish hopes now rest solely on the shoulders of Final Approach.

Willie Mullins' County Hurdle winner returned to winning ways last time out having tried his hand in Grade 1 company previously.

Jonjo O'Neill will be hoping for a change of luck following the news that Synchronised will miss Sunday's Hennessy Gold Cup and he runs Get Me Out Of Here, who was just touched off by Final Approach at Cheltenham.

Brian Ellison has two representatives, Marsh Warbler and Abergavenny.

Nicky Henderson has a good record in races of this nature and has the unbeaten Darlan, Soldatino and Ericht engaged.

Ladbroke Hurdle winner Raya Star, from Alan King's yard, the Gary Moore duo of Sire de Grugy and Via Galilei and Colin Tizzard's Third Intention will also have plenty of followers.

Zarkandar is Timeform top-rated and is currently trading as [4.6] favourite for the Betfair Handicap Hurdle, a race that also features Olofi, Ubi Ace, Desert Cry and Ciceron among the big field.

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Timeform Horses to Follow Extra for Betfair Super Saturday at Newbury is out now. Includes 5 big-race previews and an interview with Paul Nicholls.

The connections of Kiwi stayer Roi D'Jeu have enlisted expert local knowledge by engaging Tasmanian Racing Hall of Fame jockey and seven-times premiership winner Stephen Maskiell to ride the six-year-old in Sunday's $225,000 Hobart Cup......

Will Newbury go ahead? Nobody knows yet, but if you don't know don't fake it says Timeform's Jamie Lynch, who is hoping it gets the green light so he can put his plays and lays into action....

With Black Caviar's 17-race unbeaten stretch expected to be extended when the mare steps up to 1400m for the first time on Saturday, Betfair have opened up two new special markets on the race......

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Betfair Hurdle: Mullins on Final Approach to Newbury

Ante-post / Matt Gardner / 08 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Final Approach (right) winning the County Hurdle.

"Taking advantage of the drop in class, Final Approach easily won a Cork minor event early last month, confirming his well-being, and he looks sure to outperform his current odds of [13.0]..."

The Betfair Hurdle takes centre stage on "Super Saturday" at Newbury and, although football fans may picture the likes of Manchester City taking on United on days billed as such, the Betfair Hurdle promises to be every bit as competitive as any local derby...

Last year's winner Recession Proof does not feature in Saturday's renewal, but 2010 victor Get Me Out of Here does, alongside fellow JP McManus-owned gelding Darlan. It is an interesting comparison between the two, as Nicky Henderson's Darlan is at the same stage of his career as Get Me Out of Here was when winning what was then the Totesport Trophy, having won a bumper and three races over hurdles.

Get Me Out of Here landed the pot off an official mark of 135, whereas Darlan is faced with a rating of 146. In addition, Darlan is technically 3 lb "wrong" at the weights, as the handicapper has since reassessed his mark with the runner-up at Taunton, Jump City, disappointing since, dropping Darlan to 143.

Whilst Darlan is clearly open to improvement, his Timeform weight-adjusted figure of 159p (bottom-rated) leaves him with plenty to find with a number of the principals.

Get Me Out of Here is yet to record a victory since that day in 2010, but his latest performance when second to Oscar Whisky in the Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham suggested that he has returned as good as ever. However, the abiding memory from that run was how awkward he looked under pressure and his application in a finish must now come under scrutiny.

Looking back to the Cheltenham Festival last season, his second placed effort in the County Hurdle (very smart performance) would make him of definite interest, but it is his conqueror from that day, Final Approach, that makes more appeal for this race.

The Willie Mullins-trained six year-old had just two rivals behind him when jumping the penultimate flight at the Festival, allowing the principals to make their moves before staying on strongly and being value for considerably more than the winning margin.

He went on to contest a Grade 2 and a Grade 1 over longer distances in France, performing creditably in both, before shaping as if in need of the run on his seasonal reappearance in the Hatton's Grace at Fairyhouse. Taking advantage of the drop in class, he easily won a Cork minor event early last month, confirming his well-being, and he looks sure to outperform his current odds of [13.0].

Heading the Timeform weight-adjusted ratings is Paul Nicholls' Champion Hurdle hope Zarkandar, the unbeaten winner of last season's Triumph Hurdle who will be racing for the first time since Aintree last season. He is currently the [9.8] third favourite for the Champion Hurdle and could well be a handicap "good thing" off a mark of 151, but in reality he makes little appeal at the [4.5] presently available given his delayed comeback.

Clearly, this is not the main target for the season, and whilst his innate ability may be enough to see him to victory, anyway, you are in effect chancing that the five year-old has made the expected improvement.

Behind Zarkandar in the Triumph was the Colin Tizzard-trained Third Intention who, at Taunton last time, produced the sort of performance that his seasonal bow at Cheltenham had hinted towards, finishing second to the smart prospect that is Ranjaan in what looked a competitive event. Third Intention comes out second best on Timeform ratings, just 1 lb behind Zarkandar, and a repeat of his Taunton effort would see him go close, making him of definite interest at the [17.0] currently available for the win and [4.4] for a place.

Of the others, the Tom George-trained Olofi runs consistently well in races of this ilk but he has not got his head in front since 2009 and is opposable on that basis. Raya Star and Alarazi finished first and third respectively at Ascot in what was a muddling affair, resulting in form that is not easy to trust, and it is difficult to make an excuse for Alazrazi's laboured affair next time up.

Off a low weight, Abergavenny would be of interest with the promise of his Cheltenham third still fresh in the mind. However, with ground conditions far from predictable at present and the possibility that the five year-old may prefer a sounder surface, he is difficult to nail down as a selection at this stage.

The Betfair Hurdle and, indeed, Newbury's entire "Super Saturday" card, makes for compelling stuff and is enough to have any National Hunt fan salivating at the prospect. Zarkandar could well come out and prove himself to be a definite Champion Hurdle challenger, but you are taking his fitness on trust and he is short enough in the betting to avoid. Final Approach would appear to be the other most likely winner, the big-field scenario seemingly ideal, and it is entirely plausible that he still has improvement in him. Third Intention is also worth keeping on side at a decent price, with his form behind Ranjaan particularly appealing.

Recommendations

Back Final Approach @ [13.0]; Back Third Intention @ [17.0] in the win market and [4.4] in the place market

The feature event on an outstanding day of action at Leopardstown on Sunday is the Hennessy Gold Cup. Timeform's Pat Jupp assesses the field........

With current prices in mind, Timeform's Adam Brookes believes he's found the value bet in the second-day feature of this year's Cheltenham Festival, the Grade 1 Queen Mother Champion Chase....

The highlight of the weekend is the Tied Cottage Chase at Punchestown on Sunday which features a clash between champion chaser Sizing Europe and the horse whose crown he took at Cheltenham last March, Big Zeb.........

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Betfair Super Saturday: Will star-studded Newbury card get go-ahead?

News / Timeform / 07 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Newbury is hoping to beat the frost

"There has been steady money for “Yes” in the "Will Racing Go Ahead" market..."

With Saturday's card at Newbury at the mercy of the elements, Betfair have opened a market regarding whether racing will take place...

Punters and racing fans hoping that this coming Saturday's Betfair-sponsored Newbury "Super Saturday" jumps card will take place, despite harsh weather, must have been encouraged by Tweets from the course's Stephen Higgins on Tuesday.

Higgins said "[the odds of racing to be on at Newbury on Saturday are] very tempting, given temp forecast of 0 to -1 on Friday night" and followed it soon after with "Newbury won't be off, so no need to worry."

There has been steady money for "Yes" in the "Will Racing Go Ahead?" market for the event, with [1.70] offered at the time of writing from a high of [2.20].

If you disagree with Higgins, "No" can be backed at [2.0].

Snow and sub-zero temperatures have caused the cancellation of several meetings in Britain in the last week, and weather forecasts suggest things won't improve for a while yet. Doncaster's Thursday jumps card was called off as early as Tuesday lunchtime.

Saturday's Newbury card - if it beats the elements - will feature: the Grade 1 Betfair (Scilly Isles) Novice Chase; the Grade 2 Betfair Denman Chase; the Grade 2 Betfair Super Saturday (Game Spirit) Chase; and the Grade 3 Betfair Handicap Hurdle.

Ante-post markets exist for the Betfair Denman Chase and the Betfair Handicap Hurdle, with reigning Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Long Run a hot favourite at [1.50] for the former and last year's Triumph Hurdle winner Zarkandar as short as [4.3] for the latter.

Paul Nicholls believes there will be little to choose between old rivals Kauto Star and Long Run as the pair prepare to lock horns for a fifth time in next month's Cheltenham Gold Cup....

Blenheim Brook booked himself a ticket to next month's Cheltenham Festival with a fine performance in the novice chase at Ayr on Monday, the highlight of a treble for trainer Lucinda Russell....

Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Long Run could face up to 10 rivals as he bids to get off the mark for the season in the Betfair Denman Chase at Newbury......

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