NH Horses to Follow 12/13

[darranm3]

Well its that time of the year where all us jumpers start to get excited!!!The real stuff is nearly here!!!

Just wondering what horses are everyone following this year?
Post them along with trainers and a comment.

Here is a list I took off another site so all the credit goes to a Mr.aidanldrebin from OLBG.Its a great read handicappers mixed with young horses.

1. ABBEY GARTH (5 b g Dr Massini – Elegant Gale)
Form: 1550- Trainer: Nicky Richards Owner: J P McManus

This gelding made a winning start to his career when landing a bumper at Musselburgh on New Year’s Day, clearly expected to do so as the 2/1 market leader; in touch and travelled well throughout under a waiting ride at the rear of the field, making smooth progress into contention half a mile from home but running green inside the final furlong, keeping on well to see off George Fernbeck by a neck. He was snapped up by J P McManus not long after and made his debut over timber in a 2m NH novices’ hurdle at Doncaster towards the end of February; 14/1, proved keen in behind the leaders but few were going better than this gelding at the top of the straight, holding every chance after the second last but fading out of contention after the final flight to come home in fifth behind Oscar Nominee (beaten 14 lengths). His next outing came in a six-runner 2m novices’ hurdle at Ayr the following month, going off a 13/8 chance; put in a novicey round of jumping under a hold up ride, moving closer down the back straight but unable to sustain his effort after fluffing the second from home, losing touch and not persevered with as he finished last of the five. His final outing of last season came in a 2m novices’ hurdle at Market Rasen in April, for which he was anchored at the back of the main group until moving closer after the fifth flight, ridden before three out and unable to get close to the principals, eased right off and coming home last of the 13 finishers. He is a lot better than the bare form of his three outings over hurdles can communicate, travelling just about best of all on his debut over timber until proving unable to see things out having refused to settle early; his jumping let him down on his next two outings when far from knocked about in a lost cause, the margin of defeat last time accentuated by his jockey easing right off before two out; type to do well in handicap company this season if tidying up his act in the jumping department, possessing plenty of natural ability and the size/scope to improve for obstacles.

2. ANGE BLANC (4 gr g Keltos – Trasimene)
Form: 1- Trainer: Noel Meade Owner: Gigginstown House Stud

Out of a half sister to the yard’s mercurial but very talented hurdler Harchibald, this gelding made his debut outing in a well-contested bumper at Punchestown (heavy) back in February, going off co-favourite of three at 7/2. He raced on the outer in the group behind the principals, moving closer from half a mile out and arriving on the scene going strongly over two furlongs out, shaken up to lead over a furlong out and keeping on well for hand riding to run out a comfortable 2¾ length winner over Kauto Grand Mogol. He was subsequently purchased by Gigginstown House Stud following that victory, but he failed to make it to the track again thereafter, presumably skipping the top bumper race at the Punchestown festival on account of the atrocious ground conditions. He is type to do better still in his second season anyway, and the race he won on debut has already produced a couple of useful-looking subsequent winners in Kauto Grand Mogol and Summer Star; no surprise whatsoever to see this grey gelding develop into a serious Supreme Novice Hurdle contender as the season progresses; very exciting prospect.

3. BALLYBOUGH PAT (5 b g Waky Nao – Princess Ruth)
Form: 1- Trainer: Anthony Honeyball Owner: Favourites Racing

£38,000 purchase who joined current connections after a couple of outings in the pointing scene, winning the second of those by a neck at Dromahane at the end of last year (good form). He kicked off his career under rules in style when landing something of a gamble (11/4 from 7/2 on course) in a Ffos Las bumper back in February; raced enthusiastically up with the leaders and travelled powerfully throughout, coasting into the lead passing the three furlong marker and still on the bridle at the furlong pole, shaken up close home to maintain his clear lead as he came home 5 lengths clear of Rydon Pynes. It was a visually taking display from a gelding who will only improve for the switch to obstacles, seeing off one with bits and pieces of useful bumper form in devastatingly impressive fashion; chasing will be the making of him, but ought to prove capable of making an impact over timber this term and could take high rank in the novice hurdling division if his debut performance is anything to go by; will more than likely want anything upwards of 2m 4f.

4. BOB’S LEGEND (6 b g Bob’s Return – Pepsi Starlet)
Form: 90/666- Trainer: Martin Bosley Owner: K Quinn/C Benham/I Saunders

Failed to make in an impact in a pair of bumpers for Linda Jewell a couple of seasons ago, but very much caught the eye in a trio of outings over timber for his new yard last term, kicking off with a sixth place finish in a 2m novices’ hurdle at Uttoxeter last November, well off the pace at the back of the field until making sustained progress under a kind ride from two out to eventually finish within 17 lengths of the winner. His next outing saw him contest a 2m NH maiden hurdle at Fakenham a month later, sent off at odds of 20/1; again raced well off the pace in last for much of the way, blundering at the fifth flight of hurdles and effectively allowed to complete in his own time thereafter, eventually finishing in sixth behind Jimbill (beaten 63 lengths). His third and final outing of last season came in the same 2m NH novices’ hurdle at Doncaster as contested by fellow list member Abbey Garth; 100/1, raced at the rear of the field yet again and became outpaced as the tempo increased on the approach to the third last, making promising late progress under considerate handling to come home in sixth behind Oscar Nominee (beaten 21 lengths). He is surely capable of a whole lot better when allowed to run on his own merits, dropped out well off the pace on all three outings and unable to show his true worth under tender handling, doing well to get as close as he did on a couple of occasions. It is unlikely he will ever prove to be anything out of the ordinary and comes from a stable that called hardly be called prolific, but he has shown enough to suggest there is a race in him somewhere at some stage off an initial mark of 106, clearly brought along last season with handicaps in mind; probably wants further than 2m.

5. BRASSICK (5 b g Presenting – No More Money)
Form: 1- Trainer: Charlie Longsdon Owner: Paul Murphy

Half brother to bumper/very useful 2m-2m 4f hurdle (including at Grade 3 level)/2m 1f chase winner Skint out of a half sister to 2001 Grand National hero Red Marauder and several other winners. This gelding’s sole outing last term came in a bumper at Wetherby in late March, going off the 9/4 market leader (wore a tongue-tie); raced a little worse than midfield for the most part, making smooth progress to track the leaders from over a half a mile from home, travelling best of all at the top of the straight and taking over approaching the final furlong, green off the bridle but forging clear in the closing stages to see off Saints And Sinners by 3¾ lengths (pair clear). It was an ultimately impressive winning debut from a gelding who isn’t bred to shine in bumpers by any means, but the manner in which he travelled and then picked the leaders up was impressive, showing clear signs of inexperience when asked to win the race but proving strong at the finish, as per his stout pedigree. He is another who will excel over fences one day, but half brother Skint proved a useful sort over the smaller obstacles and no real reason why this son of Presenting cannot follow suit this term; likely to stay well if needs be.

6. BRAVE VIC (4 b g Old Vic – Baliya)
Form: 2 Trainer: Gary Moore Owner: R Henderson

£25,000 full brother to promising point-to-point winner Edmund Kean, out of a mare from an Aga Khan family. He made his debut outing right at the beginning of the current season, contesting a 1m 6f bumper at Fontwell in early May, going off a largely ignored 12/1 chance; raced towards the rear of the field and never threatened to land in a blow at any stage behind the clear leader, left with plenty do to (still at the rear of the main group at the top of the home straight) but finishing off to good effect under a kind ride to lead home the remainder, some 7 lengths behind odds-on favourite No No Charlie. It was more than likely just an ordinary affair, but this son of Old Vic shaped as though having possessing a fair amount of ability, making up a significant amount of ground throughout the final furlong to finish nine lengths clear of the third; ought to win a bumper before finding an opening over hurdles.

7. CHATTERBOX (4 b g Poliglote – Ney Will)
Form: 1- Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: The Not Afraid Partnership 2

Second foal of a half sister to the smart chaser My Will, and made the perfect start to his career when landing a bumper at Huntingdon in April, unsurprisingly going off the 7/4 market leader. He was never too far away from the action, tracking the leaders for much of the way albeit was pushed along over two furlongs out and took a little while to find his stride, looking set to come off second best entering the final furlong until finally engaging in overdrive in the final 100 yards to come with a strong and sustained late challenge to get the better of Woodyoulikeme. The margin of victory may only have been a short head but this gelding did well to win at all, taking a while to find top gear and even then only ridden hands and heels to get the better of the argument; appeals as the type to win a race or two at a lower level before progressing to the better races later on, bred to stay well in time (could be an ideal candidate for something such as novices’ handicap Final at Sandown on Imperial Cup day in March).

8. COPS AND ROBBERS (4 ch g Pivotal – Threefold)
Form: 3- Trainer: Noel Meade Owner: Gigginstown House Stud

Flat-bred gelding who is a half brother to high-class middle distance stayers Hi Calypso and Warringah among others, and he only saw action three times on the level for Sir Michael Stoute, chasing home useful stayer Thimaar on his debut before (narrowly) winning his maiden next time. He ended his brief first season with a low-key performance on his handicap debut at Haydock over 14f, finishing sixth; however, that didn’t deter current connections forking out 125,000gns for him, and he made his belated debut for them when contesting a 2m Grade 3 hurdle at Fairyhouse in April. He was waited with right at the back of the field, making good progress on the outer on the approach to the home straight until his challenge was halted somewhat with a lackadaisical jump at the second last, still showing signs of inexperience under pressure (only his fourth career outing after all) but keeping on well from the last flight to take third behind Ballynacree (beaten 8¼ lengths). It was a commendable effort in defeat for various reasons, not least because it was his first run of any description for over seven months, and for him to debut against more proven/experienced rivals at Grade 3 level and still make the frame was to his immense credit; could take off in a big way in the novice hurdle division once it all comes together.

9. DIGGER’S MATE (4 b g General Gambul – Miss Diskin)
Form: 60- Trainer: Bob Buckler Owner: Martyn Forrester

Half brother to the yard’s high-class triple bumper (including at Listed level)/2m 4f hurdle winner Mizzurka and connections’ 2m 6f hurdle/3m-3m 5f chase winner Double Dizzy, out of a dual 2m 6f hurdle/2m 6f-3m 2f chase winner. He made his debut outing in a Listed bumper at Newbury in February, sent off a wholly unconsidered 66/1 chance but outrunning those odds; raced at the rear of the field and was bustled along from over a half mile out, beginning to get the idea from the top of the straight and making steady progress throughout the final two furlongs to eventually finish in sixth behind Shutthefrontdoor (beaten 16 lengths). However, he was unable to build on that debut run successfully when contesting a good bumper at Chepstow a month later (5/1); raced up with the action from the outset, going better than most passing half a mile from home but failing to pick as expected, fading out of contention from the two furlong marker and spared a hard race once beaten as he came home 10th of 16 behind Melodic Rendezvous (beaten 19 lengths). He shaped a lot better than the bare result on that occasion suggested, going nicely for a long way until appearing to lack the pace to hold his position once things began to develop; pedigree points to him coming into his own once granted a stiff test of stamina over obstacles, showing more than enough in two outings last term to suggest there is plenty to work on; another summer on his back will also have done him the power of good.

10. FLORIDA QUAYS (4 b g Craigsteel – Florida Bay)
Form: 2- Trainer: Jeremy Scott Owner: Favourites Racing

€33,000 purchase who is out of a full sister to Champion Bumper winner/top-class chaser Florida Pearl, and he made his one and only outing last term in a bumper at Haydock in April, for which he was sent off a well-fancied 5/2 chance. He was waited with at the rear of the field and went with a degree of comfort, making striking progress into contention over three furlongs out and leading passing the two furlong marker, drawing clear approaching the final furlong but proving unable to hold off the fast-finishing Letsby Avenue, collared in the dying strides and going down by half a length at the line. However, it was still a hugely encouraging debut performance from this son of Craigsteel, perhaps doing too much too soon with that big move into contention in between the four and two furlong markers, in front from over a furlong out and building up a sizeable enough lead at one point. He ought to prove up to winning most early season bumpers, but it isn’t until this gelding goes jumping that the very best of him will be seen; could prove quite a useful recruit to the novice hurdling division this term for his burgeoning yard.

11. GEVREY CHAMBERTIN (4 gr g Dom Alco – Fee Magic)
Form: 14- Trainer: David Pipe Owner: Roger Stanley & Yvonne Reynolds III

Full brother to connections’ classy jumper Grand Crus who set them back €150,000 at auction, but it looked money well spent when making an ultra-impressive winning debut in a Ffos Las bumper on bad ground last December, drawing clear from half a mile out and only having to be nudged along to maintain his huge advantage, running out an eased down 30 length winner over Ubique. He showed that to be no fluke when posting a creditable effort in defeat next time in a Listed bumper contest at Newbury in February, going off a 7/2 chance; attempted to make all once again and held a decent advantage turning in for home, but he tended to run green out in front and was headed at the furlong marker though remained challenging when badly hampered by the eventual winner coming across him, dropping back to finish fourth behind Shutthefrontdoor (beaten 4¾ lengths). He could hardly be called an unlucky loser, beginning to look held by the first two home when squeezed out, but he was value for third and finishing a couple of lengths closer than he did; bred to come into his own once going jumping and will also stay well in time, so that he has already achieved so much going into his second season bodes very well for the future.

12. GUEST OF HONOUR (4 b g Hurricane Run – Pat’s Martini)
Form: Trainer: Paul Webber Owner: Michael Tabor

He sold for €70,000 as a yearling and was initially in training with John Hammond in France, but he went unsold for €27,000 last year and was subsequently switched into the care of his current stable. However, for all he clearly was never going to make the grade in a top Flat stable, this gelding has reportedly always gone with a great deal of promise at his new home; debut run has been delayed by the lack of a sound surface (held numerous entries throughout the May/June/July), but the fact he is very highly rated in a stable that also houses the potentially very useful/impressive bumper debut winner Devon Drum is telling. It would be surprising if he couldn’t win a bumper at the very least this term.

13. I’M FRAAM GOVAN (4 ch g Fraam – Urban Dancer)
Form: 1 Trainer: George Baker Owner: Sir Alex Ferguson

Flat-bred gelding who doesn’t boast the most attractive of immediate pedigrees, but he couldn’t have been more impressive when making a winning debut in a bumper at Worcester back in May, for which he was sent off a 7/2 chance beforehand. He raced at the rear of the main group under a supremely confident ride, travelling strongly throughout and making smooth progress on the inner over three furlongs out, arriving on the scene cantering and taking up the running close home still hard on the bridle, scoring by half a length from Easter Day. He had any amount in hand at the line, seeing off a Paul Nicholls-trained horse that had made the frame in a decent bumper at Chepstow on his debut; the pair were 12 lengths clear of the third, and it would be something of a surprise if this son of Fraam wasn’t able to make some sort of impact over hurdles this term, looking a scopey sort who will improve with time.

14. KAUTO GRAND MOGOL (4 b g Priolo – Kauto Relka)
Form: 21- Trainer: Elizabeth Doyle Owner: J C Delamere

Half brother to exceptional chaser Kauto Star and smart jumper Kauto Stone, and looked a useful prospect himself on his debut outing in a well-contested bumper at Punchestown in February, one of three 7/2 co-favourites at the off; raced at the rear of the field under a hold up ride, making smooth progress from half a mile out along with the eventual winner, ridden and unable to quicken initially over a furlong out before staying on well close home to take second behind Ange Blanc. He went one better in a bumper at Limerick a month later, going off the 2/1 market leader; raced close to the action from the outset and was ridden to lead over two furlongs out, drawing clear from over a furlong out to run out an impressive 6½ length winner from Texas Tea. He is obviously bred to come into his own once tackling obstacles, and that he achieved as much as he did in bumpers is very much to his credit; looks the type who will probably need further than 2m over hurdles this term, and no surprise to see this son of Priolo uphold the family tradition with a productive campaign over timber.

15. KAYFLIN (4 b f Kayf Tara – Flinders)
Form: 5- Trainer: Linda Jewell Owner: Leith Hill Chasers

This filly made her one and only outing to date in a well-contested mares’ bumper at Cheltenham towards the end of last season, for which she was sent off an unconsidered 28/1 chance; raced towards the rear of the field and went nicely for much of the way, making good progress into contention from over three furlongs out but finding herself with no room to manoeuvre well over a furlong out, badly hampered on the rail soon after and losing valuable momentum as a result, staying on again in the closing stages to take fifth behind Glorious Twelfth (beaten 9½ lengths). There can be little doubt that this daughter of Kayf Tara would have been a lot more involved at the finish but for running out of room on the rail at a vital stage, snatched up and losing valuable momentum before rallying into fifth with the race all but over. The manner in which she had travelled at the rear of the field was eyecatching, as was her move into contention from over three furlongs out; almost certain to win a standard mares’ bumper on the evidence of her debut performance, and could be decidedly useful if that initial effort is any sort of guide to her abilities.

16. LORD GRANTHAM (5 b g Definite Article – Last Of Her Line)
Form: 743- Trainer: Henry Daly Owner: T F F Nixon

Stoutly-bred gelding who did himself no favours by refusing to settle fully in a pair of bumpers at Warwick and Ludlow on his first two career outings, travelling nicely enough for a long way on both occasions and only really undone by his keenness in the end, beaten a combined total 34 lengths behind useful prospects Swing Bowler and Tistory. His sole outing over obstacles so far came in a 16-runner 2m NH novices’ hurdle at Kempton in mid-April, sent off a 40/1 chance; raced well off the pace at the rear of the field, pushed along before three out and beginning to make headway on the approach to the home straight, still well off pace before the last but making up a vast amount of ground after clearing the final flight to stay on into third behind fortunate winner Wood Bank (beaten 12½ lengths). He clearly has a decent amount of ability but hasn’t been seen to best effect so far, too keen for his own good in a pair of bumpers before finishing a never nearer third on his hurdles debut at Kempton, having been dropped right out in an attempt to get him to settle. He appeals as the type to come good in a big way once his stamina is tested in novice handicaps, likely to be brought along gradually with that sphere in mind on his first two runs back this term; comes from a family connections know extremely well (dam a half sister to useful chaser Sail By The Stars), and no surprise to see their son of Definite Article make up into a decent performer this season.

17. LORD WISHES (5 b g Milan – Strong Wishes)
Form: 11- Trainer: James Ewart Owner: Leeds Plywood And Doors Ltd

This son of Milan made his debut outing in a five-runner bumper at Ayr back in January, for which he was sent off a well-fancied 2/1 chance; made just about all and travelled strongly throughout on the front end, shaken along and drawing clear from well over a furlong out to come home an impressive 12 length winner over One For Harry. He followed up a couple of months later when landing a bumper at Haydock, for which he had been sent off an 11/4 chance; led/disputed early until tracking the leader, regaining the advantage travelling strongly with around three furlongs left to run, soon in full control and only having to be pushed clear inside the final furlong to record a 6 length victory over No Duffer. He is quite clearly a useful novice hurdle prospect for the season ahead, setting himself up nicely for that sphere with a couple of smooth successes last backend in a pair of small-field bumpers; highly regarded by his handler, it would be a bit disappointing if this son of Milan couldn’t make a significant impact over obstacles this term.

18. MARMALADE MAN (6 ch g Karinga Bay – Kentford Duchess)
Form: 3- Trainer: Seamus Mullins Owner: Ian Bare

Out of unraced half sister to bumper/very useful 2m 4f-2m 5f chase winner The Land Agent and fair jumps winner (at up to 2m 6f) Kentford Grebe (dam of bumper/Grade 2-placed 2m 5f-3m hurdle winner Kentford Grey Lady). This gelding’s sole outing to date came in a bumper at Newbury last November, for which he was sent off a wholly unfancied 50/1 chance; raced towards the rear of the field until making progress on the outer to move closer briefly over half a mile from home, left behind somewhat as the tempo lifted soon after, but his stamina came into play the further the race wore on and he made eyecatching progress from over a furlong from home, staying on strongly to take third near the finish behind Barenger (beaten 15 lengths). He hasn’t been seen since that highly promising debut run, but this son of Karinga Bay is very much bred to excel with time/distance anyway; ought to prove capable of making the breakthrough over hurdles at some stage this season once his stamina needs are better catered for.

19. MAROON MACHINE (5 ch g Muhtathir – Mediaeval)
Form: 3- Trainer: Amy Weaver Owner: Michael Bringloe

Ex-Flat horse who was deemed good enough to contest the Dewhurst Stakes (finished eleventh behind Beethoven) when trained by Eoghan O’Neill, never proving up to that exalted standard but nevertheless proving himself a useful performer on the level, placing twice in Listed contests and achieving a peak rating of 100. He made his debut in this sphere (for Hugo Palmer) when contesting an extended 2m 1f maiden hurdle at Folkestone in February, sent off a 16/1 chance; raced at the rear of the field and proved a shade keen under restraint (put in one or two novicey jumps), but he made steady headway from the third last before making a striking forward move on the inner to take up the running at the top of the home straight, ridden and joined after clearing the final flight and unable to respond once headed as he eventually came home in third behind Marcus Antonius (beaten 3½ lengths). However, it was still a hugely promising run from this gelding, appearing to pay the price for refusing to settle early and the big move he made on the approach to the home straight to lead, whilst an absence of over six months would also have left him short of peak fitness. He has switched yards since that run and hasn’t been seen during the current Flat season, but this son of Muhtathir showed more than enough on his hurdling debut to suggest he has a race in him somewhere down the line in this sphere; likely to be well suited by sharp tracks given his Flat background and the way in which he shaped on debut.

20. MASTER MALT (4 b g Milan – Mrs Malt)
Form: 2- Trainer: Alistair Whillans Owner: Distillery Stud

£48,000 purchase whose sole outing to date came on the penultimate weekend of last season when contesting a traditionally strong bumper at Ayr’s Scottish Grand National meeting, for which he was sent off a not totally unfancied 11/1 chance beforehand. He was ridden with restraint and raced in the last for a large portion of the race, beginning to make progress with over half a mile left to run and travelling smoothly as he did so, taking up the running still going powerfully passing the two furlong marker, drawing clear with short-priced favourite River Maigue and eventually finding that one to strong in the run to line, coming home a length down in the end (pair well clear). However, this gelding lost little caste in defeat, giving away experience to the Nicky Henderson-trained winner but proving able to serve it up to that rival as the pair drew clear from over two furlongs out; would be difficult to beat in a northern bumper of any description next time out, and should make up into a decent hurdling performer for his more than capable yard when the time comes.

21. MILITARY BOWL (4 b g Mr Greeley – Turtle Bow)
Form: 008- Trainer: Tony Martin Owner: Bowled Over Syndicate

Smart performer on the Flat in France for Francois Rohaut, winning a 12f Listed Race at Marseille Borely last November and joining current connections just 48 hours later for an impressive €220,000 at auction (gelded soon after). His debut outing in this sphere came in a big-field juvenile hurdle at Leopardstown in January saw him finish 12th of 25 behind Darroun, racing in midfield for the most part but making an eyecatching move on the outer after the third last, not really given much encouragement from the saddle to sustain it and exacerbating the margin of his defeat with a bad mistake at the final flight. He was turned out a fortnight later for a similar contest at Naas, where he once again showed more than his eventual finishing position of 20th (of 21) suggests; raced in behind the leaders and led briefly at the fourth from home, but he began to drop away not long after and was very much looked after once held. His final outing of the season came in a Grade 2 juvenile hurdle at Fairyhouse a further fortnight later; raced in behind the leaders until losing touch once the tempo lifted soon after the third last, coming home a tailed off eighth behind Burrenbridge Lodge. He was beaten a combined total of 104 lengths in his three outings over hurdles last term, but that doesn’t begin to tell half the story, subjected to no more than hands and heels riding at any stage on all three occasions. It is possible he was being kept back for a tilt at the Fred Winter Handicap at the Cheltenham Festival and was looking to get in off a lowly mark, but it backfired as he wasn’t given a rating and had to be pulled out at the final declaration stage. However, he still appeals strongly as one to follow in that sphere once qualified, coming from a stable famed for its handicap plot jobs; undoubtedly has a whole lot more to give, and his French Flat form alone suggests he could be a very useful performer over hurdles once it all comes together.

22. PENDRA (4 ch g Old Vic – Mariah Rollins)
Form: 1- Trainer: Charlie Longsdon Owner: Paul Murphy

First foal of a bumper/smart triple 2m hurdle (including at Listed level)/high-class dual 2m chase winner (including at Grade 3 level), and this well-regarded gelding made his one and only outing to date came in a bumper at Huntingdon back in mid-March, sent off the 9/4 favourite. He raced towards the rear of the field early until moving closer at the halfway stage, tracking the leaders and going best of all with over half a mile left to run, short of room briefly passing the two furlong marker but forging clear approaching the final furlong to run out a clear-cut 8 length winner from Beckhani. It probably wasn’t the strongest of bumper races contested last season, and the fact main market rival Billy Twyford did too much out in front (keen) before finishing weakly further helped this gelding’s cause; however, there is no denying the impressive nature of his debut victory, shaping as though the experience would benefit him greatly despite proving successful. He is bred to be useful over obstacles and ought to prove more than capable of making an impact in novice hurdles this term; possesses plenty of raw ability, and another summer on his back should have seen him strengthen up and mature that bit more.

23. PEPELINA (4 b f Vinnie Roe – Vallee Doree)
Form: Trainer: Paul Webber Owner: Mette Campbell-Andenaes

Half sister to dual bumper/smart multiple 2m hurdle (including at Listed level)/useful triple 2m chase winner Pepe Simo who is highly rated by connections; with a stable that knows what it takes to win bumpers, and this daughter of Vinnie Roe ought to prove capable of making her mark in the coming months in that particular sphere (classy half brother would have gone close to making a winning debut but for veering violently left when coming with his challenge).

24. PRIVATE EYES (6 b g Oscar – Rosemount Rose)
Form: 1- Trainer: David Pipe Owner: Malcolm Denmark

Half brother to bumper/multiple 2m hurdle/2m 1f-2m 4f chase winner Genuine Article, very useful 3m-3m 5f chase winner Choisty, 2m-2m 2f hurdle/useful dual 2m 5f chase winner Limited Edition, 2m hurdle winner Seeking Justice and debut bumper winner Devil’s Advocate. This nicely bred gelding’s sole outing to date came in a 2m 1f bumper at Hereford last November (when trained by Warren Greatrex), sent off the 11/4 market leader; raced towards the rear of the field until moving closer past halfway, travelling well up to the leaders from half a mile out until running green and becoming outpaced soon after, beginning to respond from the top of the straight and staying on well throughout the final furlong to lead close home, running out an ultimately decisive 2 length winner from Elton Fox. It was to this gelding’s credit that he was able to get off the mark at the first time of asking, clearly in need of the experience and looking held at one stage as the race began to develop, but he eventually grasped what was required of him approaching the final furlong and picked up the leading duo in good style to win going away. He is bred to excel with time/distance and fences will ultimately be the making of him, but he really ought to make a name for himself in novice hurdles this season before that inevitable switch occurs; likely to be suited by 2m 4f+.

25. PROLINX (7 b g Oscar – Winter Break)
Form: 189/8- Trainer: Charlie Mann Owner: Prolinx Limited

This gelding made a winning start to his career when landing a bumper on the fibresand at Southwell in good style back in January 2010, travelling smoothly and keeping on well inside the final furlong (had been keen early); however, he found the step up to Grade 2 company too much too soon when only eighth behind the classy Al Ferof at Newbury next time out. He shaped with a good deal of promise on his only other outing of that campaign when debuting over obstacles in a 2m NH novices’ hurdle at Sandown a month later (40/1); pulled his way to the lead and made a mess off the first, but he improved his jumping thereafter and actually travelled nicely out in front for a long way, still within himself at the top of the straight but headed approaching two out and soon weakening (looked after once held) to eventually finish in ninth behind Lush Life (beaten 39 lengths). He missed the following season through injury and made it to the track just once last term, contesting a 2m 3f novices’ hurdle at Newbury back in January; raced at the rear of the field on this occasion, making progress in between the fourth and third last flight of hurdles but unable to sustain his promising forward move after the second last, fading to eventually finish a soundly held eighth behind Carrigmorna King (beaten 34 lengths). He has shaped an awful lot better than his last two form figures suggests, travelling better than most on his hurdles debut having been keen, then making a promising forward move to latch on to the back of the main group before fading under a kind ride once things got serious last time out. He has the make and shape of a chaser and will undoubtedly come into his own over fences one day, but he could be an interesting proposition in handicap hurdles over 2m 4f+ after his qualifying run next time out; unlikely to receive much of a mark for that sphere unless putting in a considerably improved performance in a good race when next seen.

26. PUFFIN BILLY (4 b g Heron Island – Downtown Train)
Form: 1- Trainer: Oliver Sherwood Owner: Tim Syder

€48,000 purchase last year who made his debut outing in an extended 2m 2f bumper at Fontwell back in March, coming for strong and sustained support in the market throughout the day to end up a solid 9/4 chance at the off. He proved keen under restraint at the rear of the field but travelled strongly throughout, moving closer with over half a mile left to run and making smooth headway into contention with three furlongs left to run; led on the bit over two furlongs out and drew clear in effortless fashion from over a furlong out to come home a very easy 17 length winner over Seebright. The runner-up, fourth (by 21 lengths in a novice hurdle) and fifth have all won since to give the form some ballast; smart prospect for novice hurdles this term, and the fact he came in for such strong and sustained support throughout the day prior to recording his extremely impressive debut win indicates the regard in which he is held by connections.

27. REGAL ENCORE (4 b g King’s Theatre – Go On Eileen)
Form: 1- Trainer: Anthony Honeyball Owner: James Burley & Anthony Honeyball

£26,000 purchase who made his debut outing in a bumper at Southwell back in February, going off a 4/1 chance; raced in last well off the pace under a very confident waiting ride, making smooth progress from half a mile out and arriving on the scene still on the bit over two furlongs out, taking over at the furlong marker still hard on the bridle and drawing clear effortlessly to see off Ron by 2 lengths. It was a race that admittedly lacked strength in depth (runner-up won next time albeit in a modest affair) but the manner in which this gelding recorded his debut victory was very impressive, ridden out the back with the utmost confidence and cruising through to mount his challenge on the bridle before coasting clear inside the final 100 yards. He subsequently missed the DBS Spring Sales race at Newbury due to a pulled muscle and was put away, but he still rates as a fine prospect for novice hurdles this season and ought to win a race or two in that sphere at the very least; potentially smart on the evidence of his debut victory.

28. RIVER MAIGUE (5 b g Zagreb – Minor Tantrum)
Form: 31- Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Michael Buckley

Out of an unraced half sister to bumper/very smart multiple 2m hurdle winner (including at Grade 1 level) That’s My Man and bumper/very smart multiple 2m hurdle winner (including at Grade 3/Listed level) Spirit Leader, this gelding won his only outing in the pointing scene in a contest at Glenbane very easily for Michael Hourigan. He was purchased privately soon after and made his debut under rules for new connections at Ascot in February, sent off the 11/4 market leader; pulled hard in midfield early and was allowed sit a bit closer to the action, travelling smoothly into contention on the outer over three furlongs out but proving unable to sustain his challenge, ridden and unable to quicken over a furlong out as he came home a soundly held third behind Royal Guardsman (beaten 9 lengths). He got off the mark at the second time of asking when landing a bumper at Ayr’s Scottish Grand National meeting in April that his stable had won with Sprinter Sacre in 2010, sent off the 10/11 favourite; raced a little worse than midfield, travelling smoothly into contention alongside eventual runner-up Master Malt from over two furlongs out, the pair drawing clear not long after with this gelding asserting entering the final furlong to score by a length at the line. It is more than likely he bumped into an above average prospect on that occasion with the pair drawing 15 lengths clear of the remainder, successfully building on a debut run under rules which had seen him travel well into contention before lacking the pace to remain challenging. He is already a point-to-point winner who will almost certainly excel over fences in another year’s time, but he showed enough in bumpers to suggest he can make his mark at a high level over the smaller obstacles before such a time; will want probably want 2m 4f+ to be seen at his very best, and appeals as the sort to make up into a Challow Hurdle-type by the end of the year.

29. SCIMON TEMPLAR (4 b/br g Saint Des Saints – Made In Law)
Form: 86-7 Trainer: Fergal O’Brien Owner: Mr & Mrs Raymond Anderson Green

This gelding made his debut in a 2m maiden hurdle at Huntingdon in early March, for which he was sent off an unfancied 33/1 chance; raced towards the rear of the field and displayed signs of greenness from the outset, making a mistake at the fourth last and losing touch thereafter, nursed home past beaten horses to finish in eighth behind Sonoran Sands (beaten 43 lengths). His next outing came in an extended 2m 4f maiden hurdle at Uttoxeter at the end of March, sent off a 10/1 chance; raced at the rear of the field once again, green and losing touch after the third flight and making a mistake two flights later, tailing off and coming home in sixth behind An Capall Mor (beaten 120 lengths). His most recent run came in a 2m NH maiden hurdle back at Uttoxeter in mid-May, going off a 12/1 chance; took a keen hold under restraint at the rear of the field and made a slight mistake at the first, jumping right and knocking over a rival at the fifth, behind thereafter until making some late progress to come home in eighth behind Un Bon P’Tit Gars (beaten 34 lengths). He has been far too green to do himself justice so far and has seemingly been ridden with handicaps in mind, dropped out and spared a hard time on all three outings; has picked up a lowly opening mark of 82 as a result, something that will enable this gelding to work his way up from a realistic level in that sphere; could be alright given time.

30. SIXTY SOMETHING (6 gr g Dom Alco – Jaunas)
Form: 962FP- Trainer: Paul Webber Owner: Alex Timpson

This grey son of Dom Alco’s debut effort couldn’t fail to catch the eye, finishing ninth of 17 in a 2m 5f novices’ hurdle at Warwick last November, never asked a question despite travelling within himself at the rear of the field for much of the way, finishing off to good effect (Stewards looked into the run after the race), and he then appeared to get tired in very testing ground when finishing sixth behind Highland Lodge in a 2m 4f novices’ hurdle over fixed brush fences at Haydock next time (beaten 41 lengths). He improved out of all recognition when next seen in a 2m 4f novices’ hurdle at Doncaster the following month, sent off an unfancied 33/1 chance beforehand; raced towards the rear of the field until making progress approaching the third last, slightly short of room and getting two out slightly wrong but staying on strongly for pressure after the last to get to within half a length of Gores Island at the line. His next outing came in an extended 2m 4f novices’ hurdle at Uttoxeter on the final day of March, sent off the 2/1 favourite; took up his customary role at the rear of the field, moving closer after the sixth flight and travelled well behind the front three on the approach to the third from home, making a mistake at that flight and the second last but still within striking distance when coming down at the last (appeared to lose his balance after the flight). His only other outing came just 19 days later when contesting a 3m novices’ handicap hurdle at Cheltenham off an opening mark of 120; proved unable to make any sort of impact and began to tail off after the third last, eventually pulling up before the last. It could well have been that he was still feeling the effects of his heavy ‘fall’ just two and a bit weeks earlier (slow ground also perhaps a reason for his failure), and it was also his fifth run within six months in what was his first season; may not be entirely straightforward (has needed plenty of persuading to line up with the field) and needs to brush up on his jumping as well, but the ability is most definitely there and this gelding ought to prove capable of making an impact in handicaps this term off a revised mark of 115 if it all comes together.

31. SLEEPING CITY (5 b g Sleeping Car – City Prospect)
Form: 5/42F-4 Trainer: Victor Dartnell Owner: Jean Browning

Showed promise in a pair of bumpers seven months apart, and made his debut over timber a couple of weeks after his second start in that sphere when contesting a 2m NH novices’ hurdle at Kempton; put in a couple of novicey jumps towards the rear early but recovered to track the eventual winner by halfway, travelling well in that one’s slipstream when blundering at the second last, keeping on nicely under hands and heels thereafter without ever threatening as he came home 6 lengths adrift of the classy Darlan. His next outing came five months later when contesting a 2m 1f novices’ hurdle at Newton Abbot, sent off a 7/2 chance; raced in midfield until moving closer past halfway, travelling strongly into contention between the third and second last, where he led, pushed along and holding a narrow advantage over the useful Swing Bowler when putting down and falling at the last. His latest outing came in a 2m novices’ hurdle at Aintree in mid-May, for which he was sent off a 7/2 chance; raced in mid-division until taking closer order after the fourth from home, travelling nicely into a challenging position and appearing well placed approaching two out, but he put in a slow jump and faded before the last under considerate handling to eventually finish in fourth behind One Term (beaten 23 lengths). He has shown more than enough in his three runs over hurdles to suggest he will be up to making an impact off an opening mark of 118, travelling nicely behind Darlan for a long way on his debut over timber (never a threat) without being able to match his speed, then holding every chance when tipping up at the last next time out. His latest effort saw him travel nicely into contention before fading after a slow jump at the second last (not knocked about once held), but he looks the type to thrive in handicap company over a longer trip in any case; no surprise to see him come good in that sphere at some stage this season.

32. SNAKE EYES (4 b g Oscar – Be My Belle)
Form: 3- Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Mrs John Magnier

€105,000 fourth foal of a bumper/2m 4f-3m hurdle/smart triple 3m chase winner (including at Grade 2 level) who was a half sister to smart 2m 4f-2m 6f hurdle (including at Grade 2 level)/dual 2m 2f chase winner Rose Of Inchiquin and modest 2m hurdle winner Killowenabbey (by Oscar) out of a smart 2m 3f-3m hurdle winner (including twice at Listed level). His sole outing last term came in a valuable sales bumper at Fairyhouse in April, going off the 3/1 market leader; raced in midfield on the outer until moving closer with half a mile left to run, travelling comfortably into the lead at the top of the straight and ridden clear two furlongs out, but he was challenged entering the final furlong and headed soon after, fading close home to eventually finish third behind Clondaw Kaempfer (beaten 2 lengths). It is fair to say that this gelding’s inexperienced rider went too early, travelling well into the lead on the approach to the home straight and building up a healthy advantage at the two furlong marker, unable to see things out inside the final furlong and fading close to the finish; still showed enough to suggest he could be above average in time, and it would be disappointing if this son of Oscar couldn’t prove a useful sort in novice hurdles for top connections this season.

33. SPIRIT OF SHANKLY (4 ch g Sulamani – Lago D’Oro)
Form: 71- Trainer: Charlie Longsdon Owner: Alan Halsall

This son of Sulamani made his debut outing in a bumper on the polytrack surface at Kempton back in February, for which he was sent off a well-fancied 4/1 chance; raced towards the rear of the field for the most part, travelling better than most ahead of him at the top of the home straight but caught in behind runners approaching the two furlong marker, shaken up well over a furlong out and finishing off strongly albeit still with plenty of running left in him as he came home in seventh behind Valdez (beaten 5¾ lengths). He made amends when next seen in a bumper at Stratford a month later, for which he was sent off a strongly fancied 11/10 market leader; raced in midfield under restraint, moving closer past halfway and making good headway to lead over three furlongs from home, shaken up approaching the final furlong and bursting clear to win by an eased down 6 lengths from Islandmagee. It was a visually taking performance from this gelding second time around, putting behind him a luckless debut run in the best style possible, marking himself down as a serious prospect for novice hurdles this season in the process; yet another talented younger horse for his up-and-coming handler to look forward to this term.

34. TELL ME Y (5 ch g Kris Kin – Ebony Jane)
Form: 616-7 Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill Owner: Trevor Hemmings

€52,000 half brother to 2m 5f-2m 6f hurdle/very useful 2m 5f-3m 1f chase winner The Minack, bumper/2m 4f-2m 5f hurdle/multiple 2m 4f chase winner Gansey, 2m 6f-3m hurdle/2m 4f chase winner Definity and triple 3m 2f chase winner Ebony Jack, out of an Irish National winner. This gelding shaped as though needing the run in all aspects when sixth in a bumper on his debut, and he showed the benefit for that outing when landing a 2m NH maiden hurdle at Ffos Las the following month; raced at the rear of the field until moving closer between the fourth and fifth flights, challenging approaching the second from home and leading at the last, staying on well for pressure on the flat to see off At Fishers Cross by half a length. He has failed to make an impact off his penalty in a pair of novice hurdles at Chepstow (2m) and Bangor (2m 4f) since then, but he is very much bred to excel with time/distance and is likely to improve for another summer on his back and a step into handicap company from an opening mark of 114.

35. THE LAST NIGHT (5 ch g April Night – La Pelode)
Form: 387- Trainer: Emma Lavelle Owner: Tim Syder

€46,000 brother to bumper/smart triple 2m hurdle winner (including at Listed level) Tocca Ferro and a half brother to fairly useful French 2m 1f-2m 2f chase winner Skellig Mist and connections’ bumper runner-up Le Bec, out of a French 2m 1f hurdle/2m 2f chase winner. This well-bred gelding was thrown into the deep end somewhat on debut, asked to take on previous winners in a 2m novices’ hurdle at Huntingdon in January; raced in last until making good progress on the outer from the fourth last and moving right into contention until outpaced after taking the second from last in an awkward manner, drifting left after the last and not knocked about as he came home in third behind Ile De Re (beaten 12½ lengths). However, he failed to build on that promising debut effort when tailed off in a pair of novice hurdles at Ascot (2m 3f) and Kempton (2m 5f), albeit he was still in behind the leaders and going okay right up until the approach to the home straight on the latter occasion, eased off once it was clear his chance had gone (also slightly hampered by a faller at the second last). He failed to gain a handicap mark for two such beatings (reportedly scoped badly after his Ascot run), but he has already revealed a good level of basic ability despite the distance he was beaten on those occasions to know he will be of significant interest once making the switch to handicaps; no surprise to see him come good in a big way once qualified, and it could well be that a return to 2m will see him in a better light in view of his siblings and dam proving best at around that distance.

36. THE TRAIN ROBBER (5 b g Westerner – Classic Track)
Form: Trainer: John Joseph Hanlon Owner: Rachel O’Neill

Sold for £11,500 at auction last year and is out of an unraced half sister to very smart prolific 2m-2m 1f hurdle winner (including at Grade 2/Listed level) Rigmarole, 3m Grade 2 Cleeve Hurdle winner Fire Dragon and useful Irish dual bumper winner Bouillabaisse. This gelding certainly looks the part on pedigree and is reportedly held in the highest regard by his shrewd handler; sure to be out sooner rather than later in an Irish bumper, and an impressive debut success could set him up for a tilt at a bigger prize later on in the season.

37. THREE OLD AMIGOS (6 b g Karinga Bay – Quiet Confidence)
Form: 1 Trainer: Victor Dartnell Owner: Alan Hordle, Victor Dartnell & Gerald Dartnell

This gelding made his debut outing back in May in a bumper at Exeter, for which he was sent off an unfancied 16/1 chance beforehand (second string); raced in midfield until pushed along to make headway with around half a mile left to run, taking up the running over two furlongs out but looking near enough clueless off the bridle out in front, challenged inside the final furlong by eventual runner-up Atlantic Roller but staying on well to score by a length. It was to this gelding’s credit that he was able to make a winning debut at all, shaping as though finding 2m on debut an inadequate test of stamina and also displaying obvious signs of greenness off the bridle from the two furlong marker, pleasingly finding plenty to hold off a once-raced rival who had chased home the useful Royal Guardsman in an Ascot bumper first time out. This son of Karinga Bay’s future surely lies in novice hurdles over 2m 4f+ and rates as a useful prospect for that sphere, having been up to winning his bumper despite greenness and finding the trip on the short side; plenty more to come.

38. UTOPIAN (4 ch g Kapgarde – Djeti)
Form: 114- Trainer: Nick Gifford Owner: Coldunell Limited

Made his one and only start in France for Emmanuel Clayeux in France a winning one when landing a 12f APQS at Vichy last May, coming with a strong and sustained challenge inside the final furlong to see off subsequent Irish Grade 3 winner Ut De Sivola by a length. He got off the mark at the first time of asking for current connections when landing an extended 2m 2f bumper at Fontwell in February, sent off the 9/4 favourite; proved keen under restraint towards the rear of the field until allowed to hold a more prominent position after a half a mile, travelling strongly throughout and leading on the bit over two furlongs from home, shaken up and quickening clear impressively to see off Abruzzi by 12 lengths. His only other outing last term came in a decent 1m 4f junior bumper at Newbury in March, going off the 2/1 market leader; attempted to make all and went well out in front for a long way, shaken up three furlongs out and headed not long after, held together once beaten inside the final furlong to come home in fourth behind the impressive Devon Drum (beaten 8½ lengths). It was a respectable effort considering he was giving weight away and stepping back in distance, and it is also more than likely that the sounder surface he faced on that occasion didn’t really didn’t suit, wisely held together once his chance had gone; scope for considerable improvement this season in the novice hurdle division, where he should prove capable of getting further than 2m having won a bumper over an extended 2m 2f last term.

39. WILDE SPECULATION (5 b m Oscar – Ioder Wan)
Form: 5- Trainer: Fergal O’Brien Owner: M G Green

Full sister to Irish 2m hurdle winner Thefactofthematter out of a bumper/2m hurdle winner, and she was sent off an unconsidered 20/1 chance for her debut outing in a mares’ bumper at Kempton back in February. She raced at the rear of the field under a typically patient Timmy Murphy ride, travelling better than a fair few of her rivals on the approach to the home straight over three furlongs from home, making good progress on the inner passing the two furlong pole but forced to switch left soon after, keeping on in eyecatching fashion throughout the final furlong for nothing more than a hand ride to eventually finish fifth behind Midnight Minx (beaten 5¼ lengths). This daughter of Oscar would surely have been a lot closer granted a clearer run when looking to launch her challenge over two furlongs out, faced with a wall of horses and forced to switch around rivals, pushed along and staying on in eyecatching style throughout the final furlong. She ought not to have too many problems in finding an open in a mares’ bumper before making the step into novice hurdles; potentially quite useful given the ease with which she travelled throughout on debut.

40. YABADABADOO (4 b g Doyen – Kabayil)
Form: Trainer: Alan King Owner: Elite Racing Club

Half brother to very useful 7f-2m Flat/very useful 2m-2m 5f hurdle/3m chase winner Dancing Bay, bumper/2m 3f-2m 4f hurdle winner Mister Dillon, 10f Flat/2m 1f hurdle winner Shamrock Bay, 2m-2m 1f hurdle winner Rustic Charm, 1m 1f 3yo AW winner Spanish Lace and 7f 2yo winner Kasamba. This well-related gelding is clearly bred to make a significant impact in bumpers at some stage, reported to have been showing up with a good deal of promise on the practice grounds last term; failed to make it to the track for one reason or another, but ought to make up for lost time this winter and could prove to be a useful sort in bumpers if his homework/pedigree is any guide.

[Emerald]

Yabadabadoo has gone to Emma Lavelle, not sure any reason given why not returning to Alan King.

[Tuffers]

The one I am looking forward to seeing this year from the Ian Williams stable is Ballyalton. The yard isn’t known for its bumper winners, especially on debut, but Ballyalton made a remarkable bumper debut (had already won a PTP in Ireland) beating the well fancied Key To The West by 18 lengths despite looking very green with subsequent winner Whisky Yankee a further six lengths back in third.

The bare form of his second start when he beat another subsequent winner, Kaysersberg, by a neck was much less impressive but he was very fresh that day and also struck into himself quite badly. Despite that, he showed a good attitude to win.

He’s a really imposing type and provided he takes to hurdles should have a good season.

[Hurdygurdyman]

Saindor

has gone full circle . He ran 3 times with Ian Wiliams finishing a close 2nd to Akertak in a bumper.

He really needs cut in the ground so they sent him to France where he won a couple of races for his French trainer before being injured.

He’s now with Tom George who ran and won with him at Autiel the other day. If he gets his ground he’s half decent and worth following. Cheltenham in October is a possibility.

Kauto Shiny

also won in France for George and is another to keep your eye on early season if there’s plenty rain about.

Grandouet

Has already fully recovered from his injury and working as well as ever. He takes his racing well so there will be no wrapping him up in cotton wool until the Champion Hurdle. His first run will probably be at Wincanton again rather than the Betfair Hurdle at Haydock as the Fighting Fifth and the Christmas Hurdle are sure to be on the agenda if he comes through his first outing with flying colours. If not I expect the baton will be handed to Simonsig and his chasing career put on hold.

RIVER MAIGUE"

has already been covered by my learned friend. The Challow Hurdle may be on the cards but he has been spoken about as a Neptune horse. Could be worth smiling at your bookie and asking for 50/1 so you can lay him off after he runs.

Calaf

Who won 2 races for Richard Fahey and won recently for Brian Ellison holds a couple of interesting entries on the flat but he has the size and scope to make a decent hurdler which is on is agenda.

Well Sharp

Owned by JP he’s a class act despite the fact he’s only won a couple of average races. Not the type to be believing your eyes with as he the type of horse Jonjo loves spring a surprise with. I’d be careful if backing him early doors if he’s entered in something hot and there’s no big gamble on him.

Typhon De Guye

Was tailed off at first time of asking over hurdles but he’s not without ability. He’s never going to reach the heights of a superstar but will win races if he gets decent ground. He’s the type to follow over a cliff until he land one when least expected.

More to follow

[Venture to Cognac]

Would definitely have put up Caduceus before Wednesdays Kerry National, but he flopped badly.

Looking forward to 2 in particular, Baily Green, and Tour Des Champs, both Novice Chasers.

Baily Green looks very progressive, and his jumping could see him land a few more prizes, it’s been a big factor in the races he’s won so far.

Tour Des Champs also looks a natural over fences, and don’t think the RSA would be beyond him.

[flogger]

I think Baily Green is the wild card here. I just look a his torso today and it never looked better.

http://imagicon.info/cat/10-3/icon_smile.gif

[robnorth]

David Cormack is lining up stable visits to the Lucinda Russell and James Ewart in the coming weeks. Russell in particular has some interesting prospects that have arrived from Ireland and I hope to give a run down of the best prospects in early October.

In the meantime, Russell had a youngster entered last season, but never had a run, called BALLYBEN. Well regarded by Tim Reed who breaks in and does early teaching for Russell, this one is worth looking out for.

James Ewart has a high opinion of his hurdles winner PREMIER GRAND CRU. This one has proved rather delicate and difficult to train but, assuming he stays fit, is expected to make up into a decent novice chaser.

Rob

[Irish Stamp]

Tiqris (think he’s gone to Philip Hobbs) is my horse to watch – amazing debut at Whitfield back in March when he was brought to a standstill at the second last but still came back cruising on the bridle to take his Maiden. Received a shocking ride at Chepstow on his rules debut and should have won and was subsequently sold by connections (Tom Lacy and co).

Martin

[Gazs Way De Solzen]

Edit.

[Runningonlate]

Not really given this a great deal of thought yet, but, Spirit Son for a start.

I don’t know you so you may be being clever but if your not then…

Its very doubtful Spirit Son will race again after the illness he’s had. Its not really been very well reported apart from a couple of pieces in the RP so you may not be aware but he was struck down with a virus that attacks the nervous system. He was found lying in his box unable to get up and when xrayed was found to have fractured vertebrae

[Gazs Way De Solzen]

Not really given this a great deal of thought yet, but, Spirit Son for a start.

I don’t know you so you may be being clever but if your not then…

Its very doubtful Spirit Son will race again after the illness he’s had. Its not really been very well reported apart from a couple of pieces in the RP so you may not be aware but he was struck down with a virus that attacks the nervous system. He was found lying in his box unable to get up and when xrayed was found to have fractured vertebrae

I hadn’t heard anything bad regarding the horse.

However, thank you for your information, I have now just been brought up to speed regarding the virus he had any also the fractures to his vertebrae.

As you have stated, not sure if he will race again, but an amazing story of human care and determination, in addition to strength and courage from the horse.

I wish him all the best, and well done to connections for their amazing efforts with the horse.

[Runningonlate]

Not really given this a great deal of thought yet, but, Spirit Son for a start.

I don’t know you so you may be being clever but if your not then…

Its very doubtful Spirit Son will race again after the illness he’s had. Its not really been very well reported apart from a couple of pieces in the RP so you may not be aware but he was struck down with a virus that attacks the nervous system. He was found lying in his box unable to get up and when xrayed was found to have fractured vertebrae

I hadn’t heard anything bad regarding the horse.

However, thank you for your information, I have now just been brought up to speed regarding the virus he had any also the fractures to his vertebrae.

As you have stated, not sure if he will race again, but an amazing story of human care and determination, in addition to strength and courage from the horse.

I wish him all the best, and well done to connections for their amazing efforts with the horse.

I agree.

Its a shame because Spirit Son although a talking horse I think was going straight to the top. I fancied him for this seasons Champion Hurdle if NH was able to get him there in 1 piece. This news pretty much rules that out although I will be keeping a close eye on things because connections aren’t ruling anything in or out, and Spirit Son has proved to be a fighter so far, so who knows how far the recovery can go.

[obiwankenobi]

Very interesting horses to follow, thank you. I did notice that you seem to have left the Champion trainer out of the running. Presumably he has the best novices from France in his yard again.

[darranm3]

I heard he has a very good 3yo called Far West,hes already won a hurdle in France and Nicholls thinks hes his best.He is jumping bred like Hinterland last year,he should be out at the Open meeting.

[thehorsesmouth]

Can’t wait for Willie Mullins to play his ‘trump card’

[bokonon]

I’m looking forward to seeing Days Hotel if he is fit again. He beat Lucky William comfortably (who went on to win a Grade 1 at Punchestown) in his last novice chase before he succumbed to injury. He is still listed as in training on Henry de Bromhead’s website, but I don’t know any more. Anyone know how he is?

[Tuffers]

Just a little update on Ballyalton for you. I watched Harry Skelton school him in the indoor school this morning and his view was that he wouldn’t look out of place next to the best of the novices in the Nicholls yard.

[Author]

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