North’s notes

[robnorth]

Thanks very much, I’m glad my efforts are appreciated.

I’m just about keeping up to date with my notes at the moment though circumstances have meant I have less spare time. Hopefully I can get to a few more meetings next jumps season as I’m always more comfortable watching live.

I’ll post up today’s Hexham notes in the next couple of days. Perth Festival reports to follow with my favourite event of the season, The Highland National, coming up on Friday. The latter has been upped to 0-120 from 0-115 and has a very strong initial entry for the level.

I hope to do a trainer-by-trainer Scottish review of the season after next week. A rattling good season for Scottish trainers with Merigo adding the cherry on the cake!

Rob

[robnorth]

HEXHAM – Monday 19th April

Going – Good to Firm changed to Good to Soft from race 4.

Time constraints mean by observations are in quick note form.

2.30 3m 1f 0-99 Handicap Chase

1 PANAMA AT ONCE – back to form; confidence restored; on a very low mark of 87 here and may win again.
2 BENNY THE PILER – stayed on from three out; good sign for new stable; acts on fast ground.
3 ESME RIDES A GAINE – off bridle in rear most of the way; stayed on for third.
4 I’M YOUR MAN – went well until fading in the straight; needs things his own way.
5 SYCHO FRED – faded from two out.
6 FINBIN – no show and tailed off.
7 PRINCE OF SLANE – tailed off; out of form.
8 TORA BORA – prominent early but faded from fourteenth; seems a moody sort.
9 ANOTHER DARK RUM – staying on three out, weakened quickly form the bottom of the hill; may be a bit better long term.
P – CRACKADEE – pulled up twelfth and out of sorts this season.
P – COLDWELLS – rear until pulled up before last.
P – NORMINSTER – breathing problem; well out of sorts; Nixon stable in the doldrums.
P – PANTHERS RUN – rear from halfway and pulled up with a breathing problem.

3.00 3m 1f 0-97 Handicap Chase

1 COPPER’S GOLD – went on four out and clear last; good follow up to Musselburgh win off a break; goes well on fast ground.
2 GREENANDREDPARSON – outpaced three out but stayed on late; best effort to date.
3 TULLY HILL – close up to two out but tired from there.
4 SEEK THE TRUTH – weakened from two out; disappointing recently.
5 WINDY HILLS – weakened four out and tailed off.
UR – HASPER – feeling pinch when hit four out and unseated.
F – BARDOLET – midfield when fell twelfth.
P – KALMO BAY – held up and took no interest; pulled up before three out.
P – CASH ON FRIDAY – disappointing after last time; unpredictable.
P – OLD NODDY – disappointing back over fences.
P – ANOTHER CHARMER – never better than midfield; pulled up before four out.
P – WITNESS RUN – never going; pulled up twelfth; regressive.

3.30 2m 4 ½ f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

1 CHESTER LAD – confirmed promise here; came away flat to win very nicely; learning fast.
2 LAST OF THE BUNCH – kept on for second; jumped better.
3 DICE – held from the top of the hill; some promise.
4 COUNTY COLOURS – held in the straight; frustrating.

4.00 3m 1f 0-130 Handicap Chase

Decent event for a quiet Monday.

1 LEAC AN SCAIL – versatile and consistent; always prominent, led three out, held on bravely.
2 BAY CHERRY – steadily improving staying chaser; stayed on flat, just held; will win soon.
3 HARRY FLASHMAN – always prominent; stayed on flat, held; decent effort; chance if dropped in class.
4 CAST IRON CASEY – never quite get to leaders and held from three out; possibly better at shorter.
5 ZITENKA – lost touch from three out; all wins within 15 days of last run.
6 NEWMAN DES PLAGES – weakened three out; below form of late.
7 WAR FOOTING – never going; tailed off.
UR – MR POINTMENT – unseated at fourth.
P – REEL CHARMER – lost touch four out; disappointing; trainer felt race may have come too soon.
P – SEIZE –reported as not suited by the softened ground.

4.30 2m ½ f 0-112 Handicap Hurdle

1 HEAVENLY CHORUS – back to hurdling; closed two out and ran on to lead near line; trip over this stiff course suited.
2 MINI MINSTER – led or disputed all the way; denied close home; good effort and in good heart; good record at Hexham.
3 CHIP N PIN – every chance last, one pace; still a maiden and lacks finishing pace.
4 LADY SAMBURY –stayed on late for a well held fourth.
F – NEVSKY BRIDGE – covered up for a challenge when falling heavily at the last.

5.05 3m 1f Class 6 Hunters’ Chase

1 ELIZA DOALOTT – game mare; jumps well; led last and ran on well; good effort in decent event.
2 PEN GWEN – led or disputed most of the way; ran on; held by better opponent; in good heart.
3 SILVER SEDGE – held flat; another decent effort.
4 WILLYWONT HE – one pace form last; jumped better than previous Rules efforts.
5 AREYACODDINMEE – lost touch two out; found this too tough.
6 QUEEN OF DIAMONDS – weakened from the top of the hill.
7 ANSHAN SPIRIT – struggled form a mile out; reported as not handling the ground, though it’s been no problem before.

5.35 2m ½ f NH Flat

1 TIPTOEAWAY – good turn of foot in final two furlongs; impressive looking sort; should make a decent jumper.
2 MASTER MURPHY – led four furlongs out, kept on once passed; half brother to winning pointer.
3 NOBLE SCHOLAR – kept on; improvement on debut effort.
4 SHOOTING TIMES – one pace final two furlongs; will need a test of stamina.
5 JAGO RIVER – disappointing favourite; struggling from five out.

[robnorth]

PERTH FESTIVAL 2010 DAY ONE – Wednesday April 21st

Going – Good (Good To Soft in places)

There’s been a decent dry spell in Scotland, caused by the same high pressure that has seen the volcanic ash hang around in the atmosphere with chaotic consequences. Nothing like natural forces to prove how small we are? Perth opened their three day Festival opened on a bright afternoon, though the turf was showing clear signs of the hard winter suffered in this part of the world. The grass growth in Scone Palace Park is not what it might have been and it might need another month or so before the course is in its best condition.

2.10 2m 4 ½ f Class 4 Maiden Hurdle

First blood to the Irish raiding party in the opening maiden hurdle, the more competitive of the two divisions. These events are less well contested this side of the Irish Sea and it isn’t unusual to see Irish winners of such events at Perth.
Maiden point winner KILBRANNISH HILL had shown improved form when fourth at Downpatrick and proved best here. He was forced to pull out all the stops to hold on though and would struggle under a penalty in a novice event. Rated 110 he would appear well collared in handicaps.
PEGASUS PRINCE had every chance but carried his head rather awkwardly on the run-in suggesting he’s by no means straightforward. Three times second he’s becoming a bit frustrating.
APACHE COUNTRY made satisfactory comeback after a 14-month break and would appear the one most likely to go forward from this. He disputed most of the way but weakened after the last. It wouldn’t surprise me if Gordon Elliott brings this one back here for a similar event.
The third of the Irish challengers I NEED A HERO was one paced from four out.
CIRCUS CLOWN, well held in heavy ground before this, made a little late progress.
ROLL OVER ROSE, promising at Hexham, struggled in the final mile and was pulled up. Campbell Gillies reported that the bit slipped through the mare’s mouth.

2.45 3m ½ f Class 2 Novices’ Hurdle

Not a big field but nevertheless this was a competitive event. As can happen at this time of year form from a big meeting was let down as the favourite was beaten.
Gordon Elliott’s MEATH ALL STAR showed promise at Musselburgh earlier this season and had recorded two UK wins since. He was lowest rated here, but his presence at Cheltenham suggested he’s highly regarded, and he proved his quality here going away from an Aintree third on the run-in.
POSSOL, third to Big Buck’s at Cheltenham, let down favourite backers when unable to respond once passed going to the last.
SOFT SPOKEN GUY had done Maurice Barnes proud in recent weeks and was not disgraced in third less than a length behind Possol. He looks an honest sort and should be a fair prospect for staying handicaps next season.
CARSONSTOWN BOY has made steady progress since winning here last May. He could make no impression from two out.
THE KNOXS was very disappointing and eased right down once beaten two out.

3.20 3m Class 2 Novices’ Chase

DIABLO was one I had marked down as a chasing prospect when I first saw him at Perth. He’s taken time to get off the mark but, apart from a struggle at Aintree in the Topham, is going the right way. He pushed on in the straight and stayed on under pressure.
BARCADERO ran about as well as could be expected on previous form at these weights. He couldn’t raise his game from two out.
LATANIER seems to have tailed of for the season and may be in need of a rest. He produced a second consecutive tame display, being beaten by the entrance to the final straight.
EL BANDINDOS had done nothing lately to suggest he could trouble the other three. He didn’t look keen, was detached by the twelfth and soon pulled up.

3.55 2m ½ f 0-125 Handicap Hurdle

David Pipe’s stable have been firing of late and SURE JOSIE SURE was backed down to favourite for a competitive handicap hurdle. A drop back in trip here seemed to suit and she stayed on under pressure. The mare seems versatile as she’s recorded good form at a number of different tracks and handles good ground as well as heavy.
NEARBY has been running well from a mark which pretty well reflects his current ability. He pulled hard early, which may not have helped, but chased the leader honestly enough from two out if held. He is a winner on fast ground so might be kept on the go for the summer.
DRUMSHAMBO ran a respectable third on handicap debut and should be capable of picking up a similar event with the experience behind him. He’s only four years old and probably still has a little strengthening to do.
WORD OF WARNING was held from two out and will probably benefit from a step back up in trip.
FRONT RANK stayed on late and is not especially reliable.
SANTA’S SON has struggled over fences and has been sent back hurdling of late. He led or disputed to two out but was unable to produce extra once challenged, not looking particularly well treated off 125 at this time.

4.30 2m 4 ½ f 0-130 Handicap Chase

NEDZER’S RETURN might prove to be a fair bit better than the 121 that he ran off here. Progressive before falling at the Canal Turn in the Aintree Foxhunters’, he continued his progress here with a comfortable win. Despite idling on the run-in he had plenty in hand and could be one to kick on into decent handicaps next season.
STORYMAKER is in decent form at the moment and ran a creditable race against a well handicapped opponent. He saw off the rest well enough and should be capable of picking up a race in this form.
QUICUYO closed to four out but was held once turned for home.
NIKOLA was close enough two out, but belted the fence and with that went his chance.
SAFARI ADVENTURES likes to dictate the pace so had a tough task on here and gave way from four out. Small fields probably give him his best chance off his current mark.
EMERGENCY EXIT jumped abysmally and his chance had gone approaching four out.
SUPER BABY had a tough task here and, though he jumped better than of late, he was beaten from four out.
MIGHTY MASSINI was never going and pulled up before three out. It’s possible his fall last time has knocked his confidence.
BRAVE REBELLION jumped moderately, was struggling early and pulled up before two out.
OR DE GRUGY, rated 123, has not won off a mark in the 120s. He struggled from halfway, pulling up before three out.

5.05 2m 4 ½ f Class 4 Maiden Hurdle

CAULKIN, an Irish point winner, was a comfortable winner of a weak looking contest after being switched from hunter chases. This was good placement, or fortunate placement given that the race was divided, and life will be tougher under a novice penalty.
PATRIOT is well exposed and his second place does precious little for the form of the remainder.
CHARLIE BUCKET made late progress into third while ROSSINI’S DANCER couldn’t up his game from two out.
DEVIL WATER was below his best and James Ewart’s stable have been struggling in the last couple of weeks. His jockey claimed he wasn’t suited by the going, but quite frankly I don’t buy that excuse.

5.40 3m ½ f 0-100 Handicap Hurdle

Anyone who writes about horse racing will tell you that there is always one horse out there waiting to make you look stupid. It my case it’s the Liz Harrison trained LIZ’S DREAM who I wrote off as big and slow at Carlisle in October. Having found a good reason to explain a Newcastle win as a fluke it was clear he had no chance here… You can imagine that I was sitting rather uncomfortably as ‘the slow old boat’ cruised up behind the leaders going down the far side. In the end he had to work quite hard for victory but did it well enough, and this lightly raced ten-year-old is making up for lost time.
MANADAM moved into contention approaching the last but was held on the run-in. On the face of it this was a fair effort, but this wasn’t a strong event.
TOP BRASS stayed on well for third while AGHILL posted a fair fourth upped in distance, though showing a lack of pace in the latter stages.
LEITH WALK was disappointing taking on an easier task than her last two runs.
BUBBLY BREEZE, noted in a hot novice at Musselburgh, raced promisingly until two out. He’s going the right way and I’m sure he will leave this form behind if going chasing.

[robnorth]

PERTH FESTIVAL 2010 – DAYS TWO AND THREE

Thursday April 22nd

Going- Good (Good to Soft in places)

2.10 2m ½f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

Venetia Williams normally saves at least one banker for this meeting, and this year it was CICERON who was much too good for this field of novices. He eased into the lead after two out and quickly went clear. He was an easy winner of handicaps on his previous two outings but gives the impression he can still defy a current mark of 128. Other than that, Miss Williams may search out non-handicaps where the conditions are not harsh on a three times winner.
There was plenty of promise in behind, the remainder being led home by WIND SHUFFLE who is progressing steadily at his own level. Despite clouting the last he kept on for a clear second and should find a minor event if repeating this effort.
BALGANORE made a satisfactory start over hurdles, held form two out but keeping on for third. It could be that a slightly stiffer test will suit him over hurdles, but he will certainly learn from this experience.
ACCORDINGTOTHEBOSS stayed on for fourth if never getting near the leaders. He wasn’t fancied here, and is more of a long term project, but he showed enough to suggest he can be placed to win in time.
I saw TANGO FOXTROT contest a maiden hurdle on my visit to Bellewstown in 2005. He remains a maiden almost five years later and no nearer to winning, setting the pace but offering nothing once headed two out.

2.40 3m ½f 0-112 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle

GRAND UNION returned from a couple of unsuccessful attempts over fences, staying on well late to snatch the race on the line. He’s lightly raced and could now be getting the hang of the game.
BALLYMACDUFF raced prominently, as is typical for this headstrong sort. He looked the likely winner, keeping on to the line, but was but was just held in the run to the line.
PROFICIENCY acquitted himself well on his first effort in a handicap. He took it up two out and looked the winner but was run out of it in the last 50 yards. The application of the visor seemed to do no harm and Sue Bradburne should be able to secure a race with this one before long.
SOLWAY ALLY has been in good form lately, but an extra seven pounds might have made the difference and he was anchored approaching the last.
THE GROOVY MULE improved on previous hurdling efforts, outpaced two out but keeping on again from the last. He looks one who will need a stiff test to show his true worth.
PLAYING THE FIELD, nine pounds clear at the top of the handicap, should have had a class advantage. However his temperament showed through. He hung left and then dipped out at the course exit past the stands. One to treat with caution at the moment.

3.10 3m 2½f Class 5 Hunters’ Chase

The hunter chase at this meeting has been run at three different distances in three years, firstly at 3m 7f, then dropping to 2m 4f before splitting the difference this year. I think this is about the ideal distance for the billed ‘Champion Stayers’ in this class.
LEADING MAN had offered encouragement in a recent pointing win and confirmed his well being, showing the reason for his 128 rating in coming clear from three out. He had his nearest challenger held when one departed two out and if staying in this mood can trouble better company.
DIX VILLEZ led until four out but could not raise his pace form that point. He is racing honestly enough but just stays on.
TYNEDALE stays well but was struggling form the fourteenth.
FLOREANA pressed the leaders four out and was pursuing the winner when unseating two out. She was running way above her rating here and would doddle a minor hunter chase if fortune and brain were in gear at the same time.
ISLAND FLYER was close up but slow at the fifteenth and was pulled up swiftly before two out. He may have knocked himself as his rider thought he had lost his action, but he returned sound.
OPTIMISTIC HARRY won at Sedgefield when the others came back to him, but that didn’t happen here and he was tailed off when pulled up in the straight.
ALMOST BLUE was held on ratings but performed so far below par that there may well be something amiss at present. (Whatever was the problem Almost Blue ran second in the Members’ at Balcormo Mains two days later, though I’m not sure all is well.)

3.45 3m Class 2 Kilmany Cup Chase

A desperately disappointing turn out for this event given a strong five-day entry. It will be interesting to see if the course executive considers reverting to a handicap in the future.
BROOKLYN BROWNIE has not really fired this season, and finished distressed on his last outing, but he does go well around here. He was going well three out, soon took over and stayed on well to the line. Options are being kept open, with retirement a possibility though hunter chasing is another option.
OLLIE MAGERN is on the downgrade these days but kept on for second though well held from two out. Given his falling rating, if he is kept racing next season then he seems to keep enough enthusiasm to be aimed at veteran chases.
SELECTION BOX last won in the mud at Ayr in March 2009. He was outpaced from four out.
BACKSTAGE weakened quickly down the far side for the last time. Connections couldn’t tie down a particular problem and it could be that the exertions at Aintree were still being felt. He was one of my selections for the National, and desperately unlucky as he tripped over a loose horse which fell in front of him. He’s got plenty of time and it would be worth targeting the Grand National in 2011.

4.20 2m 0-134 Handicap Chase
Peter Montieth has had a low key season, struggling for a while after the freeze, but at least he managed to record a win at the Scottish finale as versatile NELSON DU RONCERAY took the Bill and Bunny Cadogan Trophy. This one has dropped to a manageable mark over both hurdles and fences, challenging on the flat to wrest the race from front-running Go Silver Bullet. Monteith has options for the future for this one.
GO SILVER BULLET had a good attempt to make all but was foiled on the run to the line. He needs good ground, perhaps even faster, and this runs signals his well being. He does need things his own way but Lucinda Russell should find him race off his current mark of 120.
DE BOITRON couldn’t follow up his Cheltenham win though was only run out of it on the run-in. He’s probably suited by being held up in a bigger field, so to go close was a decent effort.
TRAMANTANO had every chance approaching the last but the first three had greater reserves. He’s another who needs covering up and might have seen too much daylight in this small field.
The veteran POLAR GUNNER unseated at the seventh.

4.55 2m 4 ½ f 0-131 Handicap Hurdle

Venetia Williams landed a second win on the day as QUARTZ DE THAIX made his class tell in a decent little contest, following up a good win at Cheltenham. He stayed on to lead at the last, and has benefitted from a return to hurdling having looked a little hesitant at times over fences.
PONTOP normally gives his running and lost nothing in finishing second to an in-form opponent for the second time in a few days, being headed at the last and unable to respond.
HEARTHSTEAD DREAM kept on from two out for third. He runs often but his wins are few and far between these days and the handicapper has him at his level.
LEAD ON ran respectably in fourth. Hard to get to the track regularly he could step up on this while in good heart.
LOS NADIS returned from an unsuccessful attempt at chasing but was held from three out.
TILLIETUDLEM couldn’t dominate in this tougher company and was well beaten.

Friday April 23rd

Going- Soft

Morning rain meant the ground turned soft and ensured a real test for the Highland National, the finale to the Scottish season.

2.05 2m ½ f Class 4 Maiden Hurdle

SOLWAY SAM had run in a Grade 2 at Aintree, but this was a much more sensible level and Liz Harrison landed a second win at the meeting. He chased the leader two out and took over approaching the last. Harrison will no doubt be looking to keep her string on the boil ready for an assault at her local Cartmel meeting in late May. Solway Sam is arguably a little better on a sound surface so a dry spell would do no harm.
RUBIPRESENT stayed on form two out to snatch second close home. He showed some promise in bumpers and should progress with a stiffer test.
DEISE DAN led and was still going well two out. His jumping seems to have been sharpened in the McBratney yard and he kept on once passed, His winning turn looks merely delayed.
MR TALLYMAN ran with a degree of promise in fourth place. He will be better placed after another run qualifies him for handicaps.
MALIN BAY was shade disappointing back in fifth and made no impression on the leaders in the straight.

2.40 2m Class 2 Novices’ Chase

GRINGO looked a very nice prospect when winning at Sedgefield before Christmas and he confirmed the promise against tougher opponents here. He made progress to challenge at the last and stayed on best of the three principles to win The ‘Little Bay’ Trophy. One who has taken time to mature, he shows an aptitude for chasing and might be one to look out for in handicaps next season.
RORY BOY led for most of the way and though staying on was headed near the line. He ran pretty much to the pound with the winner according to official ratings and lost nothing in defeat. He’s a five-year-old and it’s possible he has a little more in the locker.
RIGUEZ DANCER was held from the last but another to emerge from the race with credit since he had something to find with the first two. He goes well in the mud so the morning rain was in his favour.
RIGHT OR WRONG couldn’t match the first three from the third last. Nevertheless, he was another to emerge from a decent looking contest with credit since he was making his chasing debut.
STAR TENOR had no chance at the weights an unseated at the second, having jumped the first two awkwardly. As an aside, he jumped a good deal better when unencumbered with a jockey!

3.15 3m 3f 0-124 Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

A contest reduced to six by two withdrawals, and one that was slog in the mud. This was the final of a Conditionals’ Series sponsored by Betfair and just a shame that field cut up.

Some very promising young jockeys were on show and Keith Donoghue took the honours as Tony Martin kept one up his sleeve for the meeting. ELBOW HIGH has clearly been difficult to keep fit, but he showed he has plenty of ability and staying power, leading at the last and winning driven out. He clearly stays all day and given that he’s a half-brother to Dun Doire, might be an interesting prospect if able to get a full season under his belt. He has few miles on the clock.
Sam Twiston-Davies, newly turned professional, took second place on VIKING BLOND who chased the winner up the run-in. He dived at the last which didn’t help his cause and was held from that point. He’s related to winning chasers and long term might be a staying chase prospect.
SIBENEK led three out but could only offer one pace once headed at the next. This was his best effort since moving to Martin Todhunter. His two Irish wins came in heavy and soft/heavy, and in Ireland they tend to judge going a degree better than the UK, so it’s clear the deeper the conditions the better.
WATERCOLOURS lost touch after the ninth but managed to overtake a rapidly weakening WILD CANE RIDGE. The latter can handle the ground but might have found this one test too many for now.
NIGHT FORCE unseated at the seventh before they had starting racing in earnest.

3.45 3m 7f Press And Journal Highland National 0-120 Handicap Chase

This event was upped in class by 5lbs to a 0-120 and has turned into a fitting highlight of the Scottish season’s finale day. Given that the Scottish National runners were rated 116 upwards then it neatly covers the ‘second division’ of the staying chase brigade. It seems to me that this year’s renewal was the best yet, though double winner Laertes was still handicapped out of it on 125.
James Evans hadn’t been to Perth since his riding days a couple of decades and the rest ago, but he spotted an opportunity for his French-bred stayer OMIX D’OR who was recording a third win of the season. Revelling in the conditions, he kept on better than his tried opponents towards the end of the slog in the mud, even a bad mistake at the third last not taking the stuffing out of him. He has presumably earned a nice rest until the autumn.
PETITE MARGOT isn’t the most consistent but she stays all day and kept on to the line for second. For all that she can be frustrating, she’s now recorded 11 wins and 8 seconds from 45 visits to the racecourse.
PANAMA AT ONCE signalled a return to form at Hexham on Monday and stayed on through beaten rivals to secure third. He was tired himself but is game and stays well in these conditions. It’s pleasing to him back to his best as the crunching fall he took at Kelso earlier in the season looked like ‘curtains’. After a period of recuperation he was below form, but with confidence restored he can now challenge again at his level.
LYDON HOUSE was runner-up here two years ago but was clearly tired down the far side and couldn’t summon reserves to get close from that point. To his credit he has attained a career high mark at the age of eleven.
OVER THE CREEK led for the first three miles. He was still in contention approaching three out, but the petrol gauge was well into the red zone and he had only enough left to get home. He comes out of this race with as much credit as any and it was game effort.
LAVENOAK LAD completed the finishers having weakened four out. He has had some tough old slogs this winter and this may have been one too many.
BLAZING DIVA fell at the second, badly hampering BEAR WITNESS who was pulled up before the next.
NOBLE BILY was well beaten in seventh when Alex Merriam was unseated in agonising slow motion three out. He won in a similar slog at Folkestone, but the relentless pace set by Over The Creek did for a few here.
The remainder pulled up and are listed in racecard order, led by MINSTER SHADOW who was in rear going on to the last circuit and pulled up before three out.
KELLS CASTLE was second in this event last year but he struggles in the mud and was struggling by halfway, pulling up before the final circuit.
STAR PLAYER, totally out of form in recent times, raced well enough for a couple of circuits but lost touch form the nineteenth and was soon pulled up.
SHREWD INVESTOR is suited by small fields and was struggling early, calling it day before the twelfth.
ROYAL MACKINTOSH has yet to prove he sees out extreme trips and all his best efforts have been at Carlisle. He raced towards the rear, was struggling at halfway and pulled up going on to the last circuit.
SIMPLY SMASHING needs good or fast ground and his rider called it a day after a circuit. He’s much better than this and wasn’t forced to over exert himself once it was obvious he was struggling.
SAMMY SPIDERMAN is unlikely to be suited by the extreme trip. He was held up in rear but could never make progress even to midfield and was pulled up before the eighteenth. Three miles or less is more realistic.
SOLWAY BAY hasn’t done anything over fences to suggest any hope in this event. He raced in rear, lost touch before the final circuit and his jockey soon called it a day.

So that’s it folks, the story of one my favourites races and its 2010 renewal.

4.15 2m 4½f 0-115 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle

DANISH REBEL, coming off a 446-day lay-off, went off in front and stayed there. He was twenty lengths up by the third flight, given a breather mid-race and had more than enough in hand from two out.
STOPPED OUT chased the leader from the sixth but never got to him. He won easily at Kelso last time and this was a decent follow up effort.
SOLIS is a well exposed maiden who sometimes finishes well but seldom threatens to win. He kept on for third.
The remainder were strung out like washing on a line with a handful skipping the last couple of flights.

4.50 2m 4½f 0-128 Novices’ Handicap Chase

NEDZER’S RETURN made a quick return to the track and cruised up as easily as he had done on Wednesday. He led from the final bend and came comfortably clear.
SINATAS stayed on from two out and shaded the race for second. This run confirmed the impression from his first chasing effort that he should win a chase or two.
Maiden chaser SOTOVIK raced prominently but could only keep on at one pace once headed three out. However, this was as good an effort as he has produced over fences.
POSEIDON was close up to four out but outpaced in the straight.
DAR ES SALAAM had made progress from the back when hitting four out and unseating.
CARRIETAU led but he was headed at the ninth and pretty much downed tools from that point. This was disappointing from one who has shown great resolution this season.
MR WOODS never got near the front and weakened on the run to four out at which point he was pulled up, PAMAK D’AIRY being another to pull up just one fence later having raced in rear.

5.20 2m ½f NH Flat

It was unclear to me exactly what happened, but both the favourite FAIRYNUFF and NIPPER NIAL decanted their jockeys at the start. This was a disappointing finish to the meeting.
Of those that remained SKIPPER ROBIN had the best form and he stayed on from two furlongs out to take the race.
FORCEFIELD gave some encouragement at Musselburgh on his first outing, and confirmed the promise by staying on in the straight having been caught for pace about three furlongs out. The Nick Alexander trained gelding looks to have enough about him to pick up a race or two over jumps.
Lucinda Russell’s FIGHTSTAR was a one paced third, just ahead of the Alexander second string NORTHERN FLAME who will be better suited by a greater test of stamina.

[robnorth]

SEDGEFIELD – Tuesday April 27th

Going – Good To Firm

Ah, it’s nice to back after the close season break…. Just wish we had more of a rest than three days!

6.50 2m 4f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

KNOCKAVILLA was pushed out to win the first northern chase of the new season. He’s very much better than most of these and this should serve as a confidence booster.
DONTPAYTHEFERRYMAN ran to his hurdles mark on his chasing debut so connections can take plenty of encouragement. With obstacles in the way there’s less emphasis on out and out speed, something which favours this gelding who keeps on well enough without showing much acceleration. He should win a chase or two this summer, though being a versatile type he may well be seen out on the flat.
ANOTHER DARK RUM showed a modicum of promise in keeping on for third.
MAGELLAN STRAITS was held from three out but should benefit form this experience.
FOLLOW ON struggled from halfway finishing a place in front of ELLANDSHE who got round in his own time as usual.
BRADEN BROOK and BIG BURROWS cut no ice and finished tailed off.
DEER FIN was tailed off when falling two out. His Rules form has been consistently awful.

7.20 3m 4f 0-130 Durham National Handicap Chase

GENERAL HARDI jumped better than he has done in the past and stayed on down the straight to land the race for local trainer John Wade. He has a fair record on fast ground.
NEPTUNE EQUESTER had shown improved form at Wetherby last time having shown at little promise in early outings. He could prove a fair performer in these events with a big more experience and the fast surface seemed to do no harm.
LEAC AN SCAIL raced close up but was outpaced going to four out and could only keep on for third.
JUSTWHATEVERULIKE kept on from two out but was never better placed than his final fourth place.
DESCRIPTION weakened from three out and didn’t appear to see out the distance on his first attempt at three and a half miles.
DALDINI made a little progress to four out but was left behind from that point as was QUATTROCENTO who never got seriously involved.
Last year’s winner LUCKY NELLERIE struggled from four out. I suspect the ground was too fast as all his wins bar one, in a two horse race, have come with cut in the ground.
MR POINTMENT raced prominently or led until fading from the seventeenth. He is on the downgrade. Paul Murphy’s other runner CERIUM has run well enough in the last two Grand Nationals but has been well put in his place elsewhere, losing touch with a mile to go here and eventually being pulled up.

KELSO – Thursday April 28th

Going – Good to Firm (Good in places)

The forecast rain didn’t show up and the watered ground dried out, leading to a number of withdrawals throughout the evening.

5.50 2m ½f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

SAVEIRO was finally rewarded for his consistency, out-battling the runner-up with the pair well clear. With AL QEDDAAFF carrying forward decent form from Aintree, and not shirking the battle here, the form has a solid look about it.
DEVIL WATER ran pretty much as he has done previously over hurdles, setting the pace but having no answer once passed. He kept on well enough and now needs fences and a distance of ground.
IMPERIAL BREEZE chased the leaders until weakening on the flat. Jimmy Lambe should find a small race for him somewhere along the line.
KING PENDA stayed on late to offer some hope for the future.

6.20 2m 6½f 0-122 Novices’ Handicap Chase

This contest was reduced to five runners as four defected, and SIERRA VICTOR departed after a less than a mile being reported as losing his action, though he returned sound.
QUICK WILL ran a decent race at Musselburgh in February but otherwise has struggled as have the stable in recent days. He was good enough to see off his main rival here. PHONE IN kept on for second if held and the impression is that the first two are both around about their mark over fences.
BORDER REIVER led until four out, a mistake two out ending any chance he may still have held. He has proved a weak finisher in chases to date and was reported as having breathing problem.
Irish challenger ON GOSSAMER WINGS was put in his place from three out.

6.50 2m 2f 0-125 Handicap Hurdle

HAZELDENE needs things his own way and got his wish on this occasion. Ryan Mania judged the race well and held enough in reserve as his charge stayed on well under pressure to win.
James
Ewart’s seem to have recovered their form or fortune and NEVERTIKA chased the leader from two out, though couldn’t get near enough to challenge seriously. This was a solid effort.
NINE STORIES ran promisingly after over a year off the track. He lost a lot of ground when blundering badly two out, but he battled back in the latter stages.
PREMIER DANE, blinkered for the first time, was one paced form the last. He hasn’t won a hurdle since 2006, but it may be worth noting that his hurdles wins have all come on fast ground.
CASSIUS was outpaced approaching two out and may have found this ground a trifle too lively.
SUNARRI was pulled up before the sixth with the ground being given as an excuse. Previous evidence suggests the problem lies between his ears rather than below his feet.

7.20 2m 6 ½f Class 3 Handicap Hurdle

COASTLEY has been progressive since moving form hunter chases and continued his upward momentum. He led on the flat and stayed on under pressure to take what was a competitive event, and in doing so suggested that he is capable of standing a rise in the ratings.
PONTOP is getting no favours form the handicapper, and is vulnerable to improvers. He led until the flat and kept on once headed to record a fourth consecutive place. To my mind he’s honest enough but just lacks an extra turn of pace at the business end.
WOT WAY CHIEF, whose chasing form has been better than his hurdles efforts, acquitted himself creditably here. He kept on for third and would be an interesting prospect back over fences as he seems in good heart.
THE GLOVES ARE OFF ran quite well under a penalty but he was held from two out.
HARMONY BRIG hasn’t seemed keen over fences and pretty much jacked it in from the eighth here.

7.55 3m 1f 0-116 Handicap Chase

TOP DRESSING wouldn’t any awards for consistency, but he’s capable on his day and took advantage of what would be a generous mark at his best. He made progress from the home bend, led at the last and stayed on well for victory. He wouldn’t be guaranteed to produce the same next time.
SEIZE, pulled out of the Highland National when the ground softened, proved how well he acts on fast ground. He made progress from the fourteenth and got involved up front at the last but was held by the winner from there. He’s another who is not the most consistent.
NILE MOON goes well around Kelso. He raced prominently most of the way but was found wanting headed at the last.
MINOUCHKA failed to build on a promising effort last time. She plugged on form two out but didn’t threaten the leaders in the latter stages.
HARRY FLASHMAN was another failing to build on recent promise. He struggled from three out. That being said, he does have a strong record at Hexham and could be worth considering if returning there in the right class.
I fancied OCARINA to pick up a race or two over the winter but he was never quite good enough. He was outpaced form two out on this occasion and this has been typical of his recent performances.
BILL’S ECHO raced close up for a long way but weakened quickly from three out and finished tailed off.
SOMETHING SILVER was pulled up having not handled the lively ground.
SNOWY lost touch past halfway and is out of sorts.
RING STREET ROLLER struggled going down the far side for the final time and was pulled up before the last. She has disappointed of late.

8.25 2m ½ f NH Flat

This was possibly not as competitive as some Kelso bumpers, but nevertheless the notebook should be used.
STORM KIRK comes from a very good family and looks set to continue their tradition. He stayed on in impressive style and gives the connections another interesting prospect in addition to Storm Brig.
GOLDEN VIEW, a maiden point winner in Ireland, made a satisfactory Rules debut. He disputed the lead and battled back well once headed, if held by a decent looking winner.
KVARNER RIVIERA stayed on to take third having had a chance two out.
LA BACOUTTEUSE showed some promise after a lay-off in finishing fourth. The latter has shown some ability at Catterick last year and has shown enough to suggest a win is possible. Though the name might not suggest it, apaprently this one is a gelding.

[robnorth]

Catching up a little…

HEXHAM – Saturday May 1st

Going – Good(Good To Firm in places)

Decent fields for the ‘Heart Of All England’ meeting despite ground just on the firm side of good.

5.50 2m ½f Class 5 Selling Hurdle

Despite the low numbers this was one of the better selling hurdles held in the north this year. ALONG THE NILE continued his good form at this level, going clear on the run-in and only costing connections £4,500 to retain in the auction. He should be worth aiming back at handicaps now his confidence is high.
THE DUKE’S SPEECH acquitted himself well on returning to hurdling, staying on for second with moderate but consistent PRIORYJO third. Four time winner in 2009, WOODY VALENTINE, was a one paced fourth and is just a little off his game right now.

6.25 2m 4½f 0-105 Handicap Chase

A moderate chase big on numbers but with few in decent form.
BALTIC PATHFINDER has hinted at ability and got his jumping act together on this occasion. He was always thereabouts and stayed on best in the straight for a deserved win. He may pick up another race ‘if’ his jumping holds up.
EMOTIVE stayed on from well back to take second place. This was a fair effort.
CROW SPINNEY chased the leader from two out without getting close enough. Not a bad effort but she still only has a hurdles win at Perth as her jumping success.
ICE IMAGE was close up two out but offered no more. When his jumping has held together he hasn’t offered much at the business end.
I’M YOUR MAN didn’t get things his own way and distress signals were apparently on the final climb.
SMUGGLERS BAY has flattered to deceive over fences and was again found wanting when push came to shove.
BARDOLET made a hash of a couple of fences mid race, briefly got to the leaders four out but couldn’t offer any more form that point. He’s probably better than this bare result suggests and is worth keeping in mind for the future.
MANOUBI made no impression from four out.
CROFTON ARCH had little chance at the weights and back pedalled form two out.
DUKE OF MALFI needs to dictate and had run out of reserves by two out.
IT’S A ROOFER never got involved and his jumping isn’t up to scratch at the moment.
NORMINSTER started the new season as dismally out of form as for ’09-10.
TULLY HILL, always a weak finisher, raced prominent early but struggled form halfway and pulled up before the last.
JANAL ditched his pilot at the first, then ST KILLIANS’S RUN, who appeared to have a fair opportunity here, fell at the second.

6.55 2m 4½f 0-122 Handicap Hurdle

CASH MAN, consistent without winning of late, stayed on to take an event where a few were in form. He’s versatile and has options over fences and hurdles in the coming weeks.
MAGICAL LEGEND ran a decent race in second and looks a type to pick up a summer handicap. The consistent if frustrating PONTOP was third and lacks a turn of foot to turn places into wins. HEAVENLY CHORUS stayed on for fourth and remains in fair heart.

7.30 3m 1f ‘Heart Of All England’ Maiden Hunters’ Chase

The finish of the main event, if not the biggest prize, was fought out by two progressive pointers. Six-year-old SPECIAL PORTRAIT looks an interesting prospect in hunter chases and came clear to just hold POPPY DAY, his jockey’s tidier style arguably making a difference. Both are worth bearing in mind for the future.
FATHER MURTAGH had every chance at the last but was left behind by younger more progressive opponents. He probably finds the company a little tough in all but the lowest level hunter contests.
ARDNACLANCY was held form two out, followed home by ATHOSS who progressed to threaten approaching the last at which point the petrol ran out.
BUCKSTRUTHER looks held at this level and finished sixth, a place in front of GUN SMITH who has ability to win a similar race if he didn’t treat the fences with such contempt.
CHERRYLAND led for the first half of the race but struggled in the final mile.
SILK PARASOL was in touch to three out but then struggled as did KNOW THE ROPES.
HARWOOD DALE, THATSTHEREASONWHY and DYSTONIA’S REVENGE were pulled up and look forlorn hopes at this level.

8.00 2m 4½f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

LOGANS RUN won well enough, staying on gamely after taking up the running two out. His jumping look sound enough and he has possibilities under a penalty.
DIAVOLERIA ran respectably on her chasing debut, staying on well after challenging at the last. She’s another well capable of picking up a run of the mill event.
BLUE SHARK led until two out. He stayed in the hunt but though keeping on couldn’t raise his game on the flat. This was an improvement on recent efforts and could be a sign that his confidence level is higher.
CHARMING KNIGHT was disappointing and beaten going to three out, eventually pulled up.
GRAND AWARD ran no sort of race and was tailed off when pulled up three out.

8.30 3m Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

The winner of this could be one with a serious future. THYNE FOR DEPLOY is an impressive chasing type and it wouldn’t surprise me if he reached decent heights over the bigger obstacles. He came clear with ears pricked and seemingly a stack left in hand. Pop Michael Hourigan’s charge on a list of horses to follow.
INNER STEEL kept on for second and will find less tough opponents than the winner.
GRAND ZOUKI was held from the top of the hill. LITTLE WIZARD, a chasing type who has had an interrupted career, was outpaced from two out. He should show up better when his size and stamina are put to more use.

KELSO – Wednesday May 5th

Going – Good (Good to Firm in places)

2.05 2m 6½f 0-95 Selling Handicap Chase

This event attracted a field full of moderate and downright slow northern handicappers who run against each other on a regular basis.
LINDSEYFIELD LODGE isn’t often a winner, but can set a decent gallop. If not put under too much pressure there’s always a chance he’ll hold on and he did that with something to spare here, stayed on well after being kicked on form two out. He’s won at Cartmel and might be worth a glance there in similar company if he can blaze a trail.
INSTANT SHOT chased the leader from three out without getting to him. He runs some fair races and Jim Goldie should be able to coax a win out of him in a weak event.
SMART MAN was held from the last, but did show up a good deal better than of late. He is a previous winner and this run suggests he isn’t a back number.
RED DYNAMITE chased the leader from two out but gave way from the last and has run to this sort of level a number of times.
SKIPPING CHAPEL couldn’t raise his game sufficiently from two out. I thought he might get involved in the finish of a race like this, but he has proved very weak at the business end.
CASH ON FRIDAY plugged on from two out.
REASONABLY SURE gave way from two out and seems soft when asked for an effort in the latter stages.
BULLIES ACRE was up against it from out of the weights and raced in rear.
KALMO BAY is sliding down the weights with no sign of revival.
SEA COVE and SIERRA PEAK were well beaten.
VIEL GLUCK is frustrating and ran a poor race before being pulled up alongside WITNESS RUN, the latter adding another lousy performance to a lengthening list.

2.35 2m ½f 0-102 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle

BEIDH TINE ANSEO saw off a moderate bunch in emphatic style, easing clear on the run-in. He progressed from a promising run at Ayr and might now be replicating his decent Flat form.
MOUNTSKIP kept on for second and lost nothing in defeat.
BARRON WATLASS has a mind of his own and can’t be trusted, running prominently before being held on the run from the last.
PICCOLO PRIDE chased the leaders but was held from two out.

3.05 3m 1f 0-128 Novices’ Handicap Chase

It’s difficult to judge the value of the form in this three runner event. GILSLAND didn’t jump particularly well but had enough in hand to hold his opponents on the flat. I’m not sure I’d be confident in a bigger field where his jumping might come under pressure.
HEEZ A STEEL made the winner pull out the stops and performed better than at Cheltenham where his jumping let him down.
GREENANDREDPARSON looked very ordinary on early evidence, but he’s starting to get the hang of things now. He stuck to his guns on the flat if just outpointed. The small field may have helped him to settle into a jumping rhythm.

3.40 2m 6 ½ f 0-110 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle

Rose Dobbin had a struggle during the 2009-2010 season. Her horses were nowhere near right most of the time, including JURISDICTION who had shown early promise. The stable’s fortunes have improved in recent weeks and Jurisdiction proved he is back to his best in emphatic style under Graham Lee going clear from two out. It might be worth keeping an eye on Dobbin’s runners as handicappers might be under weighted and many runners over priced.
MINI BECK has run some decent races but regularly finds one too good. He never threatened the leader but kept on for second. He seems to run honestly enough and it would be nice if his trainer could find him a small race in his twilight years.
PADDINGTON BOB kept on at one pace from two out. The increase in trip seemed to serve him well enough. SAMIZDAT on the other hand didn’t seem to see out the trip, leading until the eighth and weakening from two out.
The rest are a poor bunch.

4.20 3m 4f 0-108 Handicap Chase

MINOUCHKA has steadily improved of late and got a deserved win as she stayed on from the elbow to win here. It was a last racecourse appearance for Simon Shirley-Beavon’s mare as she now goes to the paddocks and a date with Indian Danehill. I’m sure a few of us in these parts will keep an eye out for her ‘wee yins’ in the future.
SEIZE is at his best on quick ground at went well here, taking the lead two out but being run out of it in the final furlong. He is in good heart and should pick up a race this spring/summer.
RECKLESS VENTURE once again got into a challenging position but typically got raced out of it after the last.
ROSIE ALL OVER ran well until weakening after the last. She seems best when able to dominate and could never do that here in a well contested event.
OLD NODDY, blinkered for the first time, raced prominently until weakening approaching the last.
WINDY HILLS was tailed off from three out and has shown very little form of late.
PRINCE OF SLANE was well out of the weights, struggled a mile out and was pulled up.

4.55 3m 1f Class Hunters’ Chase

BENBEOCH, arguably unlucky in a stronger race here earlier this year, found a weak contest to his liking here. He came clear from the last to win with a large amount in hand.
Pointing winner LADY BRIG was not disgraced in second though well outpointed by Benbeoch. She just pipped another winning pointer, SILVER PALOMINO in the race for second.
CHERRYLAND was held up for a change but it didn’t save anything for the latter stages and he was well beaten again.
TEMPLE GREEN made his Rules debut was in touch but made a mistake at three out and then came down two out.
WHAT A CLICHÉ improved to the fourteenth but was soon in trouble and pulled up before the last. He has been placed twice in points and has better chances in that weaker sphere.

5.25 2m 2f 0-105 Handicap Hurdle

Two came clear from two out with MASKA PONY working hard but ultimately successfully to see off ANNIBALE CARO. The former has been frustrating but showed resolution here, while the latter has proved before that he goes well on quick ground.
PAINTED SKY was a one paced third and looks held by the handicapper.
It was encouraging to see that NEVSKY BRIDGE has recovered from a horrible fall at Hexham. The front two had too much pace for her.
I couldn’t take too much encouragement from the others but it might be worth noting WENSLEYDALE WEB who went passably well until outpaced going to two out. Martin Todhunter will presumably have an event lined up at Cartmel at the end of the month.

[robnorth]

HEXHAM – Saturday 8th May

Going – Good to Soft(Good in places)

The final flight in the back straight was omitted due to ‘ground under repair’. This resulted in a very long run between second last and last, and only six flights jumped in the mile race.

2.15 2m ½f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

MONTOYA’S SON finally showed the winning ability that he has hinted at. Previously a weak finisher over hurdles, he stayed on determinedly to pip TWENTYNINEBLACK near the line. The latter should pick up a small race before long as he didn’t do much wrong here. PYRACANTHA ran creditably under a penalty to finish a close third, if just held on the flat.
ATTAGLANCE ran a promising fourth, one paced from the last, and will benefit from a step up in trip. He has prospects.

2.45 2m ½f Class 5 Selling Hurdle

DUNASKIN finished with a rattle to pip the consistent PRIORYJO on the line. The latter is a fair measure at this level but should probably have won this. She went clear but idled after the last.
DR VALENTINE was one paced from the last in third and this is his level, while SUNSET RESORT stayed on to show just the faintest glimmer of ability, though never seriously involved.

3.15 3m 1f 0-91 Handicap Chase

FINBIN presumably benefitted from his reason comeback after a lay-off. He’s plenty capable at this level on his day and won this race with a bit to spare, staying on up the hill and pulling clear from that point.
SHULMIN chased the leaders two out and kept on for second. She’s in reasonable heart now and has plummeted in the weights.
HASPER plugged on for third. He’s at least competitive at this level, but he’s getting on a bit and lacks any serious pace near the finish.
JANAL plugged on for fourth but his presence ni that position sums up how moderate this race was.
CINAMAN went well until two out but a bad mistake there blew any chance he had. Early evidence is that he tries hard enough over fences, but he’s small and that’s always going to be a drawback. It might be interesting if he went pointing since he has reasonable speed and would be better over less arduous obstacles.
THE ARTFUL FOX was a well held sixth and has struggled under Rules.
IMPACT ZONE was in the hunt approaching two out but then weakened.
REXMEHEAD probably didn’t stay but he was beaten a long way out anyway.
The remainder pulled up. EDITOR’S ROSE was too keen early keen early and THE GREEN HAT was never going. BENNY THE PILER went well until a mile out but then struggled and seemed to lose his action before pulling up four out. GLACIAL RAMBLER is poor maiden and struggled from halfway.

3.50 3m 0-99 Handicap Hurdle

Nicky Richards has FLYING DOCTOR in rattling good form at the moment. He eased into the lead at the last and came clear with any amount in hand. His trainer will presumably do his best to exploit opportunities in the near future.
SOLWAY ALLY has been running well of late. She kept on under pressure but couldn’t respond to a clearly well handicapped winner. There will be other opportunities in the coming weeks.
AUBERGE kept on for third but is an ordinary maiden, the same going for ALMOND COURT who was a one paced fourth.

4.25 2m 4 ½ f 0-122 Handicap Chase

I’ve always considered OCARINA decent performer at this level as he will jump them silly when he gets his act together. Things finally clicked after mediocre spell and James Ewart’s charge made up for an indifferent 2009-10 campaign. He raced prominently, was ridden to the last and led on the flat.
CASH MAN was headed after the last but kept on for second, remains in good form and has both hurdles and chase options.
NILE MOON felt the pace down the far side but stayed on again for third. He’s capable at this level on his day but not particularly consistent, and probably needs a race where he can dictate terms.
LIVINGONAKINFEDGE ran a little better than of late but was held by the top of the hill.
JUST FOR MEN weakened two out as did BABE HEFFRON, while NELLIEDONETHAT once again ran no sort of race and finished well behind.
QUICUYO raced close up but weakened approaching tow out and was pulled up before the last. He had threatened a return to form but this was a backward step.
BLEU POIS is another out of sorts, losing touch from the eleventh and pulling up before three out.

5.00 2m 4 ½ f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

Liz Harrison has her string in fine form at the moment and picked up another win with SOLWAY SAM. He led before the last and stayed on to go clear. This trip suited and he hints that a longer trip will do no harm, so there’s a fair chance of more to come.
PATRIOT kept on for second but is basically exposed which perhaps shows the level of the beaten horses. WAVE POWER has proved ordinary over hurdles and struggled from the top of the hill.
SOULARD couldn’t replicate recent chasing form back over hurdles and was beaten on the long run to the last.

[robnorth]

PERTH – Wednesday May 12th

Going – Good ( Good To Firm in places)

As last year this was fairly sparsely attended meeting. I can’t quite fathom why this should be, but this first evening meeting of the Scone Palace Park season always seems the quietest.

5.50 2m 4½f Class 4 Mares’ Intermediate Hurdle

This proved to be a straightforward opportunity for SMUGLIN, a hurdles winner at Newcastle in November. She disputed from the seventh, led two out and came clear under driving.
Fife trained PROFICIENCY is going the right way and should be capable of finding a small race. Having led for the first half of the race she was outpointed in the straight, but she saw off the remainder well enough.
DARK HALO stayed on but looks nothing special, the fourth POSH BIRD is well exposed and Irish point winner CATLEEN has been disappointing over hurdles.

6.20 2m ½f 0-95 Handicap Hurdle

A poor contest won by habitual loser SOLIS, a result which suggests the form won’t be worth a huge amount. The winner stayed on under pressure from two out.
10-year-old Rules maiden NOVEMBER PAPA GOLF stayed on for second while four-year-old KING’S CHORISTER was a one paced third but might conceivably have a little more to give in time.
MIDDLEMARCH set off in front and was well clear by the third. Once passed he kept plugging on but was well beaten and needs to show a little more restraint.

6.50 3m 0-105 Novices’ Handicap Chase

SOLWAY BAY has not been setting the world alight, but the Harrison stable are firing on all cylinders at present. He closed on the leaders from five out, challenged at the last and stayed on. If he can be kept in this form he’s more than capable of a repeat since he stays well and handles quick ground.
HURRICANE JACK jumped a good deal better than in the past, and he seemed very happy given a chance to pop away up front. Winning prospects depend on his jumping holding together, but he has the basic ability to make a mark off 83.
KING ROONAH raced prominently but was one paced in the closing stages. His previous record isn’t encouraging but this run suggests joining Gordon Elliott is reason for a degree of optimism.
EMOTIVE kept on for fourth place but never threatened the leaders.
TOO COOL TO FOOL was in the rear from halfway on chasing debut, while previous winner LE PLATINO struggled in the last mile and finished tailed off.
DALLAS BELL didn’t confirm the promise of his Hexham run, pulling up along with ZIGGY ZEN, who struggled very early, and ART BANK who jumps fairly well but is slow in between the obstacles.

7.20 2m ½ f 0-115 Handicap Hurdle

Lucinda Russell has a very interesting prospect on her hands in the rapidly improving BEIDH TINE ANSEO. An easy winner at Kelso the previous week, he eased clear from the last with any amount in hand, suggesting that he’s far better than the 106 he ran off here.
BAAHER stayed on through the field for second. He looks capable of picking up a race as this and his second at Aintree read nicely.
REGENT’S SECRET made progress form two out but couldn’t threaten the leader. He’s capable but difficult to win with, often [picking up too late both on the lfat and over hurdles, his only win of last season coming in a quirky ‘two runners and a tortoise’ novices’ chase here when pipping Pigeon Island. The two geldings’ chasing careers have gone in opposite directions since!
BORDER TALE seems in fair heart and set the pace until before the last, unable to respond once passed.
TETOUAN threatened going to two out but then weakened.

7.50 2m 4 ½ f Class 5 Maiden Hurdle

WHAT A RIDDLE would appear to have been difficult to keep fit. This was only his fourth racecourse appearance spread over three seasons, but he showed he has plenty of ability if he can be kept right, staying on well to head the second on the line.
MALIN BAY has shown enough in four runs to suggest he can pick up a race. He was run out of it close home here, but has the rest held.
PEGASUS PRINCE had every chance but was held form approaching the last and is a tad frustrating.
FOOL’S WILDCAT, a well exposed Irish challenger, threatened briefly two out but could then make no impact.
EIGHTEEN CARAT led but weakened after belting two out. He’s probably better than the bare result suggests and might be worth noting in similar contests.
Favourite APACHE COUNTRY was disappointing, fading from three out.

8.20 2m 0-115 Handicap Chase

SEEYAAJ has been well out of form for some time, but he’s decent at this level when at his best. Perhaps refreshed by a good lay-off, he led two out and stayed on for victory.
The winner’s stable-mate STORM PROSPECT stayed on from the rear. He did win a few times at a lowly level over hurdles but has been rather frustrating over fences. The impression is that he saves something.
ALL FOR THE CAUSE ahs run a few decent steeplechases, but he has a knack of finding one or two too good. He had every chance two out but was held.
YANKEE HOLIDAY won a ‘softies day out’ event at Ayr in March, but found the competition here far tougher and couldn’t respond once headed two out.
FLAMING HECK was outpaced after four out.
CALCULAITE led to the sixth but was struggling by four out. He gives the impression that he needs things his own way.
NORMINSTER added another depressingly poor run to a lengthening list. He’s a light of the horse he was in early 2009.
TRANOS took no interest and was pulled up before the fifth.

8.50 3m ½ f 0-110 Handicap Hurdle

BALLYMACDUFF raced keenly as ever, but Jan Faltesjek managed to keep a bit in hand on this occasion. Challenging at the last, Ballymacduff led in the final 100 yards and kept on.
My notes on this race become rather confused as I managed a third and two fourths, but no second! Consulting the official sources tells me that well exposed MAOLISA was second suggesting on this occasion that the trip is no problem to her. She was followed in by DUNDOCK, rather disappointing recently but perhaps signalling a return to the form he is capable of, and the capable but unreliable SUMMER SOUL.
FOLLOW ON couldn’t raise his game from two out and MINI BECK was a rather disappointing in sixth in event where I expected him to make a mark.

PERTH – Thursday May 13th

Going – Good (Good to Firm in places)

2.20 3m ½ f Class 4 Intermediate Hurdle

Three were a good deal better than the rest here. COOL MISSION was not inconvenienced by step up in trip, staying on under pressure to see off the steadily improving CAERLAVEROCK, the latter also suggesting the trip is no hindrance.
LEGGY LAD isn’t quite as good as the other two but filled third place, held from two out.
PAIR OF KINGS lost touch from three out and looks more of a long term project.

2.50 2m Class 5 Maiden Chase

This race provided an early candidate for ride of the season, Andrew Lynch making a remarkable recovery on DEL RIO. Going well approaching three out, Del Rio thumped the fence and Lynch ended up clinging on to his neck. Manoeuvring back into his seat, the jockey got things back together before the last and then rousted his mount to an effort on the flat which wrested the race in the shadow of the post. His Fairyhouse chasing debut offered promise and his reaction in the latter stages here suggests more in the tank. The time of this race much nearer to standard than anything else on the card.
Winning pointer MAYO ABBEY ran a sound race on Rules debut. He looked the likely winner from three out, but his rider seemed rather heavy with the whip after the last, his mount got unbalanced and Del Rio passed.
Hunter chaser ATHOSS ran up to form in staying on for third.
ANOTHER DARK RUM, hinted at in previous reports as a possible long term prospect, got involved in the straight but was held form two out. His progress is worth plotting.
ISLA PEARL FISHER wasn’t good enough form four out.
DEVIL WATER was disappointing on a return to chasing and is going the wrong way at present.
POSEIDON was going well in front when falling four out. He’s done enough to suggest there’s a chase to be won with him.
MORE SHENNANIGANS needs to be running in low grade handicaps to have any chance and was detached by the eighth, pulling up before three out.

3.25 2m ½ f Class 5 Claiming Hurdle

A seven-runner overnight entry was reduced to a three horse non-event, won in a canter by RIGHT OR WRONG who’s a decent handicap hurdler at best.
STILL CALM chased in vain from the fifth, the point at which newcomer CATELLI forfeited any chance when stumbling badly.

4.00 3m 0-123 Handicap Chase

SHERIFF HUTTON was placed on my list of horses to follow lat autumn. It’s taken an age for him to click, but confidence was eventually justified as he just held on in a tight finish. He’s probably a little better than his 123 mark and might pick up another handicap on decent ground.
BEAR WITNESS was hampered and put out of the race in the Highland National. He showed here that his place in that contest was justified, just missing out on a first chasing win. He should win a chase and is likely to be back in Scotland over the summer.
OR DE GRUGY is probably still high enough in the weights but was not disgraced in third place.
TOP DRESSING threatened two out but was held and might find this 10lbs higher mark prohibitive.
BALLY WALL got into the race down the far side but weakened from three out.
NATIVE CORAL weakened quickly form two out.
CATCH THE PERK didn’t look madly keen in this competition and faded from the fourteenth before pulling up.
OSCAR HONEY(pulled up) couldn’t mix it back over fences and KELLS CASTLE(pulled up), who ran good races here last year, is out of form.

4.35 2m 4 ½ f 0-130 Handicap Hurdle

HEARTHSTEAD DREAM picked his way through the field from three out. He’s best ridden this way and took charge on the flat, driven out for victory. A decent pace and a double figure field are helpful.
SANTA’S SON ran his best race for sometime in second, keeping on when headed at the last having led three out.
LOS NADIS does stay this distance on fast ground but is possibly best at slightly shorter. He was tapped for pace on the flat.
HAZELDENE set the pace but couldn’t respond once passed before two out.

5.05 2m 4 ½ f Class 5 Novices’ Hunter Chase

QUINDER SPRING couldn’t cope with the bigger fences following a very successful spell pointing. He was awkward at the first and shed his rider at the fifth.
SCOTCH WARRIOR came clear from four out for a facile win and jumped well enough for won that I understand has not been fluent over pointing fences. There’s precious little to judge this form against, CHAPMANS PEAK being exposed as very ordinary under Rules, and recent pointing winners BARRY THE CRACKER and BEAU TRAVELLER looking slow.
OOJAR struggled from halfway and was pulled up.

5.40 2m ½ f NH Flat
With a couple of previous winners in the field this race has a decent look about it. On that basis James Ewart might just have unearthed something a little bit special in AIKMAN. Making all the running, he quickened in impressive style two furlongs to pull clear. His Irish pointing form was no more than fair, but he clearly ahs plenty of basic speed and his progress will be followed with interest.
Previous winner PRICELESS ART filled second, chasing in vain from the two furlong pole. His trainer always has a strong hand in these events and he is a good measure.
WITHER HILLS ran a sound race in third on debut and should progress. CORKY DANCER was not far away in fourth and to some extent confirmed the good impression he gave at Kelso.

[robnorth]

Wednesday May 19th

A double header on the northern jump circuit with Kelso’s spring finale leading the way and Sedgefield filling the evening slot. With very little rain about the fast ground form should be of use for the coming weeks…., cue three works worth of downpours!

KELSO

Going – Good to Firm(Good in places)

2.10 2m 2f 0-115 Handicap Hurdle

This race was set up for BENMADIGAN, held up off a decent pace and picking his field off once turned for home. His jockey was hard at work approaching the last, but the Nicky Richards trained gelding responded when driven out on the run-in. He needs the right sort of ‘race shape’ but on his day he’s decent at this level.
SMARTIES PARTY took up the running two out and kept on once passed. This was a good deal better than her recent efforts.
MARDOOD is probably on his mark now but ran respectably in filling third place.
NELSON DU RONCERAY was held up but couldn’t get to the leaders as the winner did while LEITH WALK was caught flat footed three out and didn’t get nay closer.
Well backed SAUJANA ran as her form suggested, receiving reminders from an early stage and never in the race.
WITNESS RUN has been in poor form over fences, but showed just a hint of a revival here from well out of the handicap. He led approaching three out but found things too tough after the turn for home. Aimed at the lowest level of handicap Alistair Whillans might coax at least a place out of this one.

2.45 3m 1f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

DIAVOLERIA took advantage of mishaps which happened to her two main rivals, seeing off a determined runner-up in the final furlong. It’s difficult to know what value to put on this form, but she idled a little in front.
For a 12-year-old running only her second chase RIVER ALDER did connections proud. She just lacked the pace of the winner from the elbow.
QUICK WILL was in the lead and going well enough when falling four out.
MR WOODS’ tendency to jump right didn’t help him and, though he has plenty of ability, might stop him reaching full potential without correction. He hit the eleventh and jettisoned his rider.
WARNELL VIEW jumped slowly in the rear and gives no hint of being a racehorse.

3.29 2m 1f 0-115 Handicap Chase

A small field and the chance to dictate was a perfect recipe for front running CARRIETAU. Jumping accurately as ever he led all the way and had plenty in hand from the last. He does need things his own way, and will now be forced into a tougher class, but in a small field he’s a solid investment.
DUKE OF MALFI never got to the front and was outpaced early on. He stayed on from second and remains in fair heart, but he’s another who arguably needs things his own way.
JIM TANGO raced in second to the last but was then well outpointed.
WELL OILED, coming off a break, was left behind from two out.

3.55 2m 6 ½ f 0-128 Handicap Hurdle

This was a competitive event with a few progressive types present.
Liz Harrison’s stable remain on fire, surely a good pointer with the short trip to Cartmel available soon. SOLWAY BAY recorded a second win on the trot, progressing under pressure approaching the last, leading a furlong out and pulling clear. With a hurdle and a chase win behind him there should be a few options.
COASTLEY stayed on for second, running another gallant race and he has proved a revelation since moving from the pointing/hunter chase sphere. He was running off a 14lbs higher mark than his last run.
LAWGIVER’s rider was hard at work approaching three out, but his mount responded well enough to hold third in the run to the line.
HUMBIE led to the last but dropped away quickly once headed while McMURROUGH had two ways of running and never looked completely at ease on this occasion. He faded from contention approaching the last.

4.30 2m 2f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

BALNAGORE progressed from his first effort, niggled along to two out but conjuring enough to see off a runner-up who is in good heart. The bear form here is nothing to shout about, but he should progress with experience.
SOLIS, previously less than reliable, is in decent nick and frame of mind right now, making the winner pull out the stops.
CHOCTAW NATION made headway approaching the last and finished with a rattle.
WALDVOGEL led approaching the last but folded on the run-in and the impression was that more was expected.

5.05 3m 1f Hunters’ Chase

A decent hunter chase but the favourite ELIZA DOALOTT, successful in three completed hunter starts, fell at the sixth fence.
The favourite’s veteran stable mate MOMENT OF MADNESS proved an able substitute, disputing the running all the way, kicking on going to the last and showing good determination on the flat.
Another in the twilight years of his career, ANSHAN SPIRIT goes well round here and made up for a disappointing Hexham effort, staying on and making the winner work hard.
FLOREANA and AREYACODDINME, both outpaced going to three out, finished with a rattle for the places.
ARDNACLANCY chased the leaders and kept on, not beaten more than 5 lengths in fifth. He ahs won plenty of points and the impression is that he’s best ‘bullying’ inferiors.
SILVER SEDGE chased the leader to the last but could make no impression on the flat.
DAVY BOY LEGEND looked to be struggling in rear for much of the way, but he picked his way through tired rivals in the straight.
BENBEOCH found the competition too tough here and weakened from two out.
Plenty capable at this level on his day, he does seem to need things to go for him.
DIX VILLEZ generally shows up well but finishes weakly and was another find the competition too much. The impression is that a slog would suit.
SILVER PALOMINO isn’t good enough at this level and finished tailed off.
ALMOST BLUE was another tailed off and has shown very little under Rules this year.
DORIS’S GIFT is at best as lowly handicapper. He had no chance at this level and unseated at the ninth.

5.40 2m ½ f NH Flat

FREDDIE BROWN was signalled by your correspondent following paddock inspection last time out. George Charlton’s decent bumper horses invariably progress when sent jumping, and the Northumberland trainer has a very exciting prospect on his hands. He was still a bit keen, but galloped into the lead inside the final two furlongs and stayed on relentlessly.
Regular readers will know how I rattle on about the quality of Kelso bumpers. PASTURE BAY is another who will surely turn into a jumping winner. From the family of Silver Birch, he progressed two furlongs out and stayed on after the winner.
MR JAY DEE has run three decent races and kept on for third if held once the winner passed.
THURNHAM is a first foal of a bumper winner, but looks capable of making a mark of behalf of his dam. The leaders got away from him two out but he kept on well enough. A similar comment could be applied to the fifth ORRALOON another doing his best work from two furlongs out.

SEDGEFIELD

Going – Good to Firm (Good in places)

7.00 2m 4f Class 4 Maiden Chase

The last fence was omitted following a fall on the first circuit.
Never in the race on previous outings, BIG BURROWS found this small field to his liking. He took over going well three out (two out here) and wasn’t in much trouble from that point. I’d still be a bit wary in a more ‘hustle bustle’ type of contest, though he clearly has ability.
DONTPAYTHEFERRYMAN kept on in his customary fashion without seriously threatening the winner. He jumps well enough and will win a chase or two through stickability.
BUGSY’S BOY was close up to three out, but under pressure into the straight and made no impression.
POSEIDON was in trouble four out having raced in the rear all the way and was passed by THE GLOVES ARE OFF late on, the latter having been well detached from past halfway.
STILL AT LUNCH was presumably capable of winning chases, and was leading when fatally injured falling at the eighth.

8.00 2m 4f 0-100 Handicap Chase

Locally trained PERSIAN PRINCE went well at the head of affairs and and was left to win comfortably when WINGED FARASI departed at the last, holding I’M YOUR MAN who, as a few times before, was held for pace in the latter stages. WINGED FARASI ran a fair race but like most of these he’s no great shakes.
HIGH STAND LAD was outpaced form the three out and never seriously threatened.
STAR TENOR was under the shove three out and weakened, unable to repeat Bangor form.
NAVAL ATTACHE was beaten from the tenth finishing in front of LETHAM ISLAND who was remote from a mile out.
GINGER’S LAD fell at the twelfth, while SOLWAY BLUE was struggling in rear when unseating a fence earlier.

8.30 2m ½ f 0-92 Handicap Chase

SCHINKEN OTTO has won for a long while, but he goes well when the ground is fast and was good enough in a very moderate contest, leading two out and staying on.
MY CONDOR led to two out but was not progressing when falling at the last.
TROODOS JET is consistent in similar contests and ran respectably to fill second. He’s always one to consider in 0-95 and lower class, but he’s vulnerable to anything with any zip.
JANAL and CROFTON ARCH are exposed as slow and the fact that they filled third and fourth sums the contest up.
MISCHIEF MAN was held from two out, as was STOLEN LIGHT who has shown little in recent times.
CLUELESS got round here after two pulled ups, but his form is uninspiring.
MEZUZAH, unreliable previously on the flat and over hurdles showed no signs that chasing is his forte and was last of those to finish, the 56 rated BALLYBOE BOY pulled up before the last and a forlorn hope.

The hurdles threw up very little to go forward with though the selling handicap hurdle winner AUTHENTIC ART might prove a bit better than his lowly rating. The opening novice was won by the quirky BARRON WATLASS, though he was given a good ride and those close up, HEART OF DUBAI and BARREL OF FUN possess some ability. PUGNACITY won a closing handicap full of exposed types.

[robnorth]

PERTH – Sunday May 24th

Going – Good To Soft (Soft in places)

The normal packed house was in for Perth Gold Cup day, the official figure being 11,144 and showing the pulling power of this delightful track.

The going had eased with some rain and as a result there were a number of non-runners.

2.15 2m 4½f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

Gordon Elliott is not one to miss an opportunity and it’s not untypical to see his progressive chasers revert to hurdles to pick up easy money. The job was done with ease here as NEDZER’S RETURN followed up his Perth Festival double. He was not the slightest bit troubled from three out.
Another swapping from chasing was the second HUNCHEON WELLS. He chased the winner up the straight without threatening.
PROFICIENCY ran an honest enough race in third. She should eventually find a small novice or maiden, particularly if there’s a mares’ only event available.
ELCANOS promises much but went out like a light from two out and all the indications are that he has a physical problem once pressed.

2.45 2m 4½f 0-112 Novices’ Handicap Chase

SOTOVIK has been rather frustrating over fences but he got lucky here, being left in the lead when the likely winner keeled over at the last. He kept on under pressure with those chasing even more tired than he was.
KING ROONAH looked to have the race won when falling in slow motion at the last. He couldn’t quite get his legs under himself as he went down. He’s shown enough in his last two efforts to suggest he will win a chase before long.
ATHOSS, an ordinary hunter chaser at best, was held from three out.
MEADOWS THYNE was well out the back most of the way but stayed on late and almost snatched second. While he seemed to finish well he was never in the race.
CROW SPINNEY was outpaced form the eleventh.
PHONE IN was well fancied but struggled from the tenth fence and pulled up before four out. All his best form is on good or faster, so it looks safe to put this run aside.

3.15 2m 0-115 Handicap Chase

THE ROCKING DOCK ran a succession of good race here last summer, and bounced back to form with a win here. Leading at the eighth, he had to be reminded of his job up the straight after being headed, but kept on to good effect.
Lightly raced HELEN WOOD took up the running in the straight but was headed at the last and could muster only the one pace.
COACH LANE won a weak event at Uttoxeter. This wasn’t strongly contested, but he was outpointed from four out.
PRINCE TAM is a weak finisher and the distress signals were out with four to go.
ALL THE CAUSE ran a poor race, pulled up three out, and remains frustrating over fences.
ANNIBALE CARO barely went a yard and was pulled up before the seventh fence.

3.45 2m ½ f 0-104 Novices’ Handicap Hurdle

WIND SHUFFLE showed promise here on his previous outing, the third has won since, and he made a successful handicap debut on this occasion. He led until headed at the last and then showed admirable battling qualities to get back up.
CABERNET SUAVIGNON sets the standard with a solid performance in a Limerick handicap recently. He looked the likely winner at the last but was worried out of on the flat.
The other three, SHPFRONTSPEECIALST, SOLWAY BLUE and ROSSINI’S DANCER are ordinary and were beaten in the straight.

4.20 3m 0-136 Handicap Chase

OLLIE MAGERN suggested with his second at the previous meeting that he still had a win in him. He proved very game here, making the running and holding too much in reserve for this field. He’s been done plenty of favours by the handicapper, running off 134 here, but it’s heartening to see the popular veteran return to winning form. Leading all the way, he kicked on form three out and stayed under pressure from two out.
Wincanton SIR BATHWICK chased the winner up the straight without quite getting close enough to challenge. He’s in solid form and there may be another race for him before long.
GO SILVER BULLET was entering new territory trip wise. He chased the leaders most of the way but had run out of reserves after two out. This was a good effort and he would be interesting drop back in trip. He certainly had no trouble handling this class.
PIANO STAR closed to three out but hit that fence and that ended his chance. He has won the Midlands National at Kilbeggan in July two years running and I would imagine that would be a target again.
GINOLAD was struggling from four out and struggles in the latter stages of his races.
CATCH THE PERK plugged on but this company is a bit too competitive for him these days.
FLEMROSS went well on fast ground last summer. The cut in the ground wouldn’t have helped him, and he back pedalled after a mistake four out.
LOTHIAN FALCON and HOOPY never made a serious mark and finished in rear.
JACK THE BLASTER was detached by the twelfth and pulled up as was DOC ROW, the latter finding this far more competitive than his recent runs.
MILITANT, running his first race under Rules since 2007, was another to pull up before the thirteenth.

4.45 2m 4 ½ f 0-120 Handicap Hurdle

SUMMER SOUL has been a frustrating sort in the past, but he had the run of the race on this occasion and came clear from two out. He’ll be punished by the assessor for this and will struggle to follow up.
CORKAGE stayed on having been outpaced to three out.
BATHWICK MAN led or disputed until two out but was one paced form that point.
STROBE ran a little better than in recent months, his jumping let him down over fences, but was held from two out.
BAAHER closed to three out but could offer disappointingly little from that point.

5.30 2m ½ f NH Flat

Not a race I could get too excited about, but Sedgefield winner LOVEY DOVEY beat this field nicely. Already a point winner, she should be competitive when sent over hurdles.
CALL ME BILL chased the winner home clear of the remainder. His bumper form looks sound enough and he has prospects going forward.
Of the remainder, the third FLOAT MY BOAT and MONASHEE, eased once held in the straight, look long term prospects. Both are bred to stay well and will need a stiffer test to bring out the best in them.

HEXHAM – Tuesday 25th May

Going – Good to Firm

7.35 3m 1f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

The low sun meant that the second last down the near side was omitted on both circuits.

MIDNIGHT CHASE won this with the minimum of fuss and has proved that
he’s capable of troubling better class than this.
BALLYLANGAN tried to put it to the winner in the latter stages, but was well outpointed up the hill and very tired when falling at the last. He will probably be better running at a sharper track.
POLITICAL PENDANT was struggling for much of the way but stayed on past a tiring opponent to secure second prize.
CURRAHEE showed just a hint of promise on his chasing debut. He had a tendency to jump big but went well enough until tiring after the climb to the last.

8.35 2m ½ f 0-105 Handicap Chase

ARUMUN is pretty well exposed but had a nice opportunity against some ordinary northern two-milers. He made steady progress to three out, took over at the last and stayed on to catch an idling leader on the flat.
ICE IMAGE really should have won this. He looked the likely winner at the last and went on, but then idled and was caught, though apparently having a bit still left. He’s more than capable of winning a race like this, though not necessarily inclined to show it.
THE KEALSHORE KID was in rear for most of the way but picked his way through the field from three out. He wasn’t beaten far, is still in fair form and I suspect he’s better on a sharper track.
HEAVENLY CHORUS was detached early but kept on for fourth.
MORE SHENNAIGANS ran respectably from 9lbs out of the handicap, keeping on for fifth. He’s run more decent races than bad in latter times and I still feel there might be race in him if kept to the lowest company.
STORM PROSPECT is never the most committed and having progressed to two out he couldn’t offer any more.
GLIMMER OF LIGHT led at a decent pace but faded before the last. He’s capable on his day but used up too much too soon here.
MORE LIKE IT weakened three out as did SEA COVE, MAGELLAN STRAITS and the tailed off SKIDDAW JONES. More Like It won a moderate hurdle race recently, but none of these offer any immediate encouragement over fences.

I couldn’t pick up much of significance from an ordinary asset of hurdle races on the card. However, PATRIOT was rewarded for a succession of decent efforts, taking the maiden hurdle.

SEDGEFIELD – Wednesday May 26th

Going – Good

2.50 2m ½ f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

ELLERSLIE TOM led and made a succession of ‘cat like’ jumps, really stretching to clear his fences. He made his ability tell and held the second from two out, idling a bit on the flat.
FINANCIALREGULATOR didn’t do much wrong but was outpointed by a better opponent. It’s difficult to make too many judgements from a three runner contest, but he hinted at ability over fences.
SCALE BANK was beaten from four out.

4.00 3m 3f 0-95 Handicap Chase

A race rendered a two-runner contest at the fifth fence. SOLWAY BEE dived at the obstacle, came down and GREENANDREDPARSON and OVERON LAD had nowhere to go, both being brought down. Thankfully all horses and riders got up in one piece.
FINBIN was left to see off HASPER from before the last, and was eased close home.

5.00 2m 4f 0-95 Novices’ Handicap Chase

GINGER’S LAD was in contention when falling here the previous week. Always going well he challenged at the last but hit the fence, then recovered to head the long time leader near the line. His jumping appears a bit hit or miss but he should be capable of winning another handicap.
PUGNACITY, a hurdle winner here on his previous outing, was going well three out but then looked tapped for pace going to the last. He picked up again on the uphill run to the line and was staying on.
PERSIAN PRINCE, a winner here last time, set the pace and still led briefly after the last but could offer no extra on the run-in.
CLUELESS challenged approaching the last but was one paced on the flat. This was at least an improvement on recent efforts.
JANAL stayed on to finish a close fifth, but his proximity does little for the value of the form.
SOLWAY BLUE chased the leaders to two out but was then held. He has yet to win a race.
EXIT FORTY FOUR was tailed off by halfway.
CHERRYLAND raced prominently early but as previously had nothing left when the race began in earnest and was pulled up.
DOWNING STREET was behind early, briefly flattered before the ninth but was well behind when pulled up before two out.
PATCHOULIE CONTI and maiden point winner FLAG HILL never figured and were both pulled up.

[robnorth]

CARTMEL – Spring Bank Holiday Meeting

Saturday May 29th

Going –Good

The weather was disappointing for the first of three days’ racing at Cartmel and a good few of the crowd were on their way home before the end of the evening.

The opening hurdle saw Donald McCain’s mare IDENTITY PARADE make it two from two over hurdles, hanging on gamely from STAND CLEAR. The latter was clear of the remainder and Ferdy Murphy should find a minor event for him.

In the seller DUNASKIN looked to be struggling on the home bend but, as previously, he rattled up the run-in to wrest the contest close home. In the end it was a comfortable win and his turn of speed does make a significant difference at this lowly level. LETS GO GIRLS isn’t the most consistent performer but ran well enough to take second, just ahead of DANNY ZUKO who was dropped in grade after a disappointing return to hurdles last time. WOODY VALENTINE stayed on from a way back to take fourth but is not hitting his best at the moment.

7.00 2m 5½f 0-100 Handicap Chase

SHULMIN has been hinting at a return to form of late. All her previous wins had come at Sedgefield it seems that a sharp track is the basic requirement for producing her best. Able to settle comfortably she took up the running at the last and was kept up
to her work to win. She was 8lbs wrong here, but at her best that mark is very generous and she built on this performance just two days later.
EMOTIVE has been running creditably over fences and kept on for second if unable to get to the winner. He’s doing enough to suggest that his trainer can find a handicap chase for him.
CROFTON ARCH ran as good a race as he has done for a while. He kept on at one pace for third, but this was a decent effort from 10lbs wrong in the weights and he was another to build on the performance later in the meeting.
SYCHO FRED couldn’t match the principals from three out. He probably needs a stiffer test but his jumping is a bit sloppy.
STORM SURGE was prominent most for the way but found wanting on the long run from the last. His best has come around two miles and a drop back in trip would suit.
PEAK SEASONS is moderate and is found out in anything like a competitive race. He ran prominently but struggled from the last.
CORPORATION, placed in weak novice hurdles last year, has been disappointing of late and dropped away from the eleventh.
WINGED FARASI was never going and was tailed off when falling at the last.

7.30 3m 2f 0-95 Handicap Chase

A multiple point winner in Ireland and a respectable sixth over the cross-country course at Punchestown, VOLCANIC ROCK proved well up to the quirky test that is a Cartmel staying chase. He made steady progress from halfway and was nudged clear after the last. He seemed to have a fair bit in hand and it wouldn’t surprise me if his trainer searches for further opportunities this side of the Irish Sea.
ONTHEGOAGAIN, a second Irish challenger and a winner at Hexham in October, ran a sound race if outpointed from the final bend.
THE ARTFUL FOX has limited ability but kept on to take third place.
GERSHWINNER weakened before the last and is proving very disappointing as is BATHWICK BREEZE who raced prominently but gave way tamely from the last.
COPPER’S GOLD has picked up a couple of soft events but having led from the start gave way two out and weakened. I still think he can win off his current mark if able to get a soft lead in a moderate contest so don’t write him off.
SIERRA PEAK and SAM CRUISE have both seriously lost their way of late and were well beaten. The latter doesn’t help himself with some appalling jumping0.
DUNBRODY HOUSE jumped badly in rear and was pulled up.
BENNY THE PILER once again went out like a light and seems to have a problem.

8.10 2m 1 ½ f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

The favourite MUTUAL FRIEND needed a decent pace here but the four opposition jockeys were not of a mind to oblige. He rallied close home but couldn’t find enough to take the race and is a sort who needs things to fall for him.
THUMBS UP was the obvious second choice and made a sound chasing debut, leading after the final turn and having enough in hand to hold on.
WATCH OUT had every chance but was outpointed in the final furlong, SPRINGFIELD RAKI was outpointed form three out and JAMES CAIRD, formerly useful on the flat but off the track after a disappointing spell hurdling, was beaten two out.

SIR FRANK ran on gamely to take the 2m 1½f novices’ hurdle. He’ll be competitive in similar events over the summer. DUTY FREE is consistent if regularly finding one too good and ran on well for second. BEAT THE SHOWER stayed on for third and might be worth a glance in a moderate event at a stiffer track.

ARDESIA continued her improvement to take the closing handicap hurdle. Locally trained DEVILS DELIGHT is consistent enough in this sort of company and kept on for second. ROYAL FLYNN was a well held third and isn’t particularly close to that elusive victory. KNIGHT VALLIANT is running a little better now after some dire runs in the winter, but was held in fourth.

Monday May 31st

Going – Good

Glorious Bank Holiday weather brought out the usual huge crowd at this delightful Lakeland venue. This is the ultimate Country Fair meeting.

A mares’ novices’ selling hurdle is about as low quality as jump racing gets. DREAM RISK built on a degree of jumping promise, and a couple of respectable flat runs, to come clear in the straight. STIR ON THE SEA raced keenly for much of the way but was outpaced in the street, though finishing in front of Stratford winner BONZENO QUEEN. The rest will struggle to win anything over obstacles.

Progressive BEIDH TINE ANSEO hosed up with ears pricked in the four-year-old hurdle and looks likely to have his sights set a good deal higher before long. He was decent on the flat with Jim Bolger and is starting to show that ability over hurdles. ANDHAAR made a promising debut in second and will be unlucky to run into another one as good as the winner on the summer circuit. Back in third CLASSIC CONTOURS sets the level having twice been a runner-up previously.

3.20 3m 6f 0-104 Handicap Chase

SHULMIN made it two wins in three days with a very easy win, the trip here being a bit more suitable than the one she won at on Saturday.
PAUILLAC stayed on under pressure form the last without threatening the winner. This quirky course seemed to suit him as his form of late has been moderate.
BACK IN BUSINESS plugged on for third, LAVENOAK LAD was one paced after the last and arguably needs a track or conditions that place a greater demand on his stamina.
HEVER ROAD has been in good form in the spring, but he’s basically just a plodder and could only keep on from the rear, the turning track possibly not playing to his strengths.
FINBIN found this event tougher than what turned into a match at Sedgefield and was never dangerous.
STOP THE SHOW was up with the pace for much of the way but was quickly cast aside in the last three-quarters of a mile.
ESME RIDES A GAINE raced with the pace until losing here place four out, quickly back pedalling.
FEELING PECKISH made his losing run 72 and finished tailed off.
GERSHWINNER didn’t see out the trip, but he was beaten at the three mile mark anyway and is very weak in the latter stages of his races.
SADDLER’S WAY struggled from halfway and was pulled up two out.

3.55 2m 5 ½ f Class 4 Beginners’ Chase

SIMARIAN seems to have had his interest rekindled by going chasing. He followed up a promising second on debut with a determined effort to win this race, leading to two out and rallying on the flat.
LAST FLIGHT battled well enough having taken the initiative from Simarian but was just held. Peter Bowen isn’t frightened to put in the horsebox miles and should find an opportunity for her.
INDIAN PIPE DREAM stayed on under pressure in third.
HEARTHSTEAD DREAM did well to stay in contention for a long way given that his jumping was slow at times. He faded after one mistake too many three out.
BALLYCOLIN is likely to need more of a stamina test and lost touch from the last while YOUNG YOZZA cut no ice on chasing debut, struggling from early on.

4.30 2m 5 ½ f Hunters’ Chase

Prolific winning pointer ARDNACLANCY broke his Rules duck with a determined effort, seeing off pacemaker WHAT OF IT in the straight.
LAGOSTA kept on for third, FATHER MURTAGH was held after the last and finished fourth.
CLUTHE BOY has won points but is finding hunter company a lot tougher, while THE STCKLER raced close up until giving best from two out.
ATHOSS has shown promise of late but was disappointing on this occasion, fading from four out.
WILFIE WILD, a fourteen year old returning to senior racing after three years, went well enough until weakening quickly after the last.
BARRY THE CRACKER was held up in last place and stayed there, becoming tailed off down the wood-side on the final circuit.

Back to the closing hurdles contests and PADDINGTON BOB took the two and three-quarter mile novices’ handicap, just holding GALLEY SLAVE who didn’t do much wrong but is rated a lowly 68. LUKEY LUKE, previously beaten in a seller, was close up for third and the rest were put in their place.
The closing Conditional Jockeys’ staying event was won by FLYING DOCTOR who continues in very good form. GLEN ROUGE is basically a plodder but has run some fair races of late. The rest were well held though MONEY FINDER went well until giving way in the last quarter mile and she may benefit from a stiffer track.

Wednesday June 2nd

Going – Good (Good To Soft in places, Soft on the wood side)

Just a bit of cut in the ground for the closing day of Cartmel’s Spring Festival and that may have made a difference to a few.

TWENTYNINEBLACK made it two in a row in the opening novices’ hurdle seeing off SILVERLORD. Gordon Elliott should place the latter to win before long, though it’s worth noting this one will probably need a sharp two miles to bring out the best. 113 rated QUATRO PIERJI ran a fair enough race in third and sets the level.
BASFORD LASS won a weakly contested mares’ maiden from SAINTLY LADY with the well exposed MAOLISA third having been prominent all the way.

3.25 2m 1½f 0-94 Handicap Chase

CROFTON ARCH produced his best run for a good while, leading and sticking on well up the straight. He seems in good heart at the moment and enjoyed bowling along in front round this tight circuit.
BOLD PIONEER looked to be going best on the flat but couldn’t find enough once asked. I suspect it says a lot for Graham Lee’s talents that this one made second place.
TURBO SHANDY is a course and distance winner but couldn’t make any impression from the final bend while STAR TENOR couldn’t summon pace to challenge form the last.
TROODOS JET had every chance but couldn’t raise his game from the last despite urgings from above.
SCHINKEN OTTO found this tougher than his Sedgefield contest and faded from the last.
FLAMING HECK was tailed off whilst ICE IMAGE went well for a way but weakened disappointingly down the wood side. Those two beat GLENGAP who lost touch four out and shows little promise at this time.

3.55 3m 6f 0-115 Handicap Chase

A disappointing turn out for an event dominated by Chabrimal Minster in recent years.
LYDON HOUSE stays well but doesn’t win very often. He just kept galloping here and had the race in safe keeping from the last.
MR ED contested until the last but just plugged on and his overall form pattern is discouraging.
MASTER SEBASTIAN plodded on for third but was never close enough to threaten.
LITTLE GIRL ran a decent race from 23lbs out of the weights, running prominently for much of the way and keeping going well enough to hold fourth. She shows a glimmer of ability, but time and a desperately low rating are against her.
SPORING REBEL was out of contention with a mile to go and walked in for fifth.
MICHIGAN D’ISOP never got into the contest and was pulled up three out, whilst VICTORY GUNNER pulled up having raced prominently to the tenth.

4.30 3m 2f Hunters’ Chase

THUNDER HAWK recovered his form and showed a good attitude to rally and lead near the line against an idling second.
DELIGHTFUL CLICHÉ should have won but decided that he had done enough a furlong out having cruised into the lead three out.
DOC ROW ran creditably in third back in a more realistic class. He couldn’t summon an extra effort once turned for home.
THISTLECRAFT was held form three out whilst AREYACODDINMEE never got involved and was tailed off from two out.
FAIR QUESTION was rallying and looked likely to be involved in the finish when thumping the fourteenth and shooting his rider out of the plate.
OPTIMISTIC HARRY gave Samantha Drake a nasty unseat at the first whilst OAKLANDS LUIS and PROUD ANDEES struggled on th final circuit and were pulled up.

SUMMER SOUL continued his good form in the 2m 6f handicap hurdle, scoring for Lucinda Russell’s yard. Flight before the straight was omitted on the second last circuit and Campbell Gillies shaped as if expecting to miss it when it was the last. The damaged flight had been repaired and Gillies corrected himself sufficiently, gathering his mount to quicken clear quite impressively. This one might have another race in him as he is in fine heart and form here looks solid.
DOWNING STREET stayed on from a long way back for second overtaking CASH MAN who tried to match the winner but weakened after the last. These two are decent measures at this level and another in-form performer was fourth in SPARE ME.
The closing contest of the meeting saw ARDESIA add to Saturday’s win. Like Shulmin earlier this one came out of his first race in good nick and put up another decent performance. Solid form credentials were at a premium here though, previously well held GOLDEN FUTURE staying on for second with course specialist WENSLEYDALE WEB benefitting from a return to her favourite venue, though never threatening in third place.

[robnorth]

Course commentator Dougie Fraser failed to turn up at Hexham and there has been no trace of him since then, despite searches of the area around his flat in Leeds. While we all hope that Dougie is alive and well, if hiding away for some reason, the time that has elapsed since he was last seen suggests something more sinister. I’m sure all readers join me in hoping that the story has a happy ending.

HEXHAM – Saturday June 5th

Going – Good to Firm

In the absence of Dougie Fraser the AtTheRaces ‘commentary’ was provided by Matt Chapman. Your correspondent decided he would be better served by turning down the sound!

2.15 2m 4½f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

MAJESTIC MAYHEM was a 24,000 Euros buy after winning a couple of Irish points and a Wexford bumper. He doesn’t look a bad purchase on this evidence, coming well clear in the straight. A follow up win looks very likely.
SIR FRANK had every chance but used up his energy climbing the hill after which he weakened to finish a tired second. This was different to the tight Cartmel circuit and his stamina limit was broken here.
BIRNIES BOY finished a moderate third and the rest were well beaten.

2.45 2m 4½f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

BAILY STORM seemed to have a straight forward opportunity here but was made to work very hard by a second performing to his best. That being said, he showed determination to hold on.
SIERRA VICTOR has clearly had problems, but returned to his best to push the winner all the way. He would win a handicap in this form, but doesn’t always produce two similar efforts in a row.
MISS SUNFLOWER, a pointing winner making her Rules debut, ran well until giving way from the last.
THE GREEN HAT was left behind down the far side and needs further to show the little ability he has.
ELLANDSHE lost touch after three out but plugged on to the finish in his own time.

3.20 3m 1f 0-115 Handicap Chase

HARRY FLASHMAN isn’t the most reliable jumper, but he got his act together here. Up with the pace as suits him, he responded to urging approaching the last and ran on for victory.
TOT OF THE KNAR was going well three out but the winner had too much for her in the straight.
WESTERN GALE was held form two out while CASH ON FRIDAY weakened on the run to the last.
PANAMA AT ONCE jumped sketchily and lost touch from the thirteenth and pulled up before four out.
GUERILLA took on interest and was pulled up before the tenth.

3.50 2m ½f 0-141 Handicap Hurdle

The best quality hurdle of Hexham’s season was won in impressive style by INVENTOR. He led before the last, made a good leap and came clear on the flat.
SANTA’S SON has made a move to Charles Pogson, an unheralded trainer but one of my favourites. Ridden by Pogson’s son Adam, Santa’s Son put up a decent effort here, staying on under pressure for second. The stable get a decent return from a bunch of mainly moderate animals and it wouldn’t surprise me if they coax a handicap hurdle out of this one.
AKARSHAN plugged on for third, holding DANISH REBEL, who is swapping between flat and hurdles, and LOS NADIS who looks held off a mark of 126.

4.25 2m 4½f Hunters’ Chase

There were problems with the ATR feed for this race so I’m working off the race comments for this last hunter chase of the spring.
ARDNACLANCY followed up his Cartmel win by taking the notable scalp of Take The Stand. Having been outpaced two out he rallied up the hill, led at the last and was pushed out. A prolific winning pointer he has time on his side to pick up more wins under Rules.
TAKE THE STAND was dropped in trip following his decent third at Stratford. The trip doesn’t play to his strengths and he was tapped for pace by the in form winner. He does retain his enthusiasm and I wouldn’t discount a return next year at the age of 15.
PEN GWEN has run some fair races in hunter company and kept on to take third.
THINK LUCKY plugged on for fourth, well held, and isn’t one to rely on.
RAKERIN LAD was outpaced form four out beating home SCOTCH WARRIOR, who was in the lead three out to two out but then weakened up the hill, and VICTOR who weakened approaching two out.
BOW SCHOOL is plenty capable but his jumping can be sloppy at times. Having belted the second he decanted his rider when hitting the eighth.
PIRATE D’ESTRUVAL isn’t up to this level and was well behind when unseating four out.
SENDEED weakened three out and was pulled up, while BENWELL was tailed off on the final circuit, his jockey calling it a day before the last.

4.55 2m ½f Class 4 3yo Hurdle

The opening juvenile hurdle of the season was won by David Pipe with LUCKY QUAY. He will presumably compete as similar events come along and won well enough.
SANSILI was a one paced second just ahead of ANCHORAGE BAY and MR MOHICAN. I wouldn’t be falling over myself to back any of those three in the immediate future.

[robnorth]

HEXHAM – Saturday June 12th

Going – Good (Good to Soft in places)

3.05 2m ½f 0-114 Handicap Chase

ORMUS showed ability over hurdles but has struggled over fences. He showed that he still retains his ability when his jumping clicks and he stayed on well here after joining issue in the straight. He’s on a low mark compared with his hurdling best and there may be more in the locker.
STAGECOACH PEARL led two out and stayed on after being headed. This was a fair effort for his second over fences and this six-year-old looks likely to win handicap chases.
EMOTIVE plugged on late having struggled to match the leaders from halfway. This trip looks too sharp for him now.
WELL OILED was well held from two out and isn’t threatening to break his maiden tag.
HEAVENLY CHORUS often picks up late, but never got seriously involved on this occasion being outpaced form the bottom of the hill three out.
RED JESTER was ridden quite early on, rallied to four out but then dropped away.

4.10 2m 4½f 0-99 Handicap Chase

This wasn’t a brilliant race with many out of form.

Having looked very slow on his initial UK efforts TULLY HILL has at least shown a little zest in the last year, if lacking pace at the business end. Coming up against a bunch similarly lacking in finishing zip he had enough in hand to pick off his rivals on the flat, thus breaking his own and his trainer’s duck. His form at Hexham is well in advance of anything else he ahs shown.
HASPER has been running creditably in moderate handicaps and kept on for second, though never quite getting close enough to threaten a win.
GINGER’S LAD won at Sedgefield last time and looked to have a decent chance to follow up. He was thereabouts from a mile out but couldn’t raise his game enough in the straight.
THE GREEN HAT showed a good deal more than he had on his last outing, possibly finding handicap company easier. Having led at the ninth he had every chance approaching the last but could summon no extra.
DALLAS BELL was one paced from two out and looks held on current terms.
PANTHERS RUN won here in October but everything fell for him then and he’s generally not a betting proposition. He was struggling from the ninth fence here.
CLUELESS regressed, tailed off from the tenth, while MISCHIEF MAN fell away after belting the eighth and was pulled up, as was FLAMING HECK who took little interest.

BEAT THE SHOWER won the two mile handicap hurdle nicely off top weight and a mark of 107. He’s lightly raced and looks progressive.
FAIR SPIN won the 2m 4½f handicap hurdle with ease, beating three recent winners, and may be a step or two ahead of the handicapper.
NOBLE SCHOLAR upheld recent bumper form in the first leg of the NH Flat race. He battled well on the flat to beat AUPCHARLIE, making a promising debut and looking a future winner, with the remainder well held.
LOVEY DOVEY followed up a comfortable Perth win in the second heat and this point winner will be interesting once going hurdling. BE MY DEPUTY looks to have strengthened after a fifteen month break, staying on determinedly from the bottom of the hill and is one to keep an eye on.

SEDGEFIELD – Monday June 14th

Going – Good

The last fence was omitted as ‘ground under repair’ giving a very long run-in from the usual second last, the open ditch.

4.00 2m 4f 0-112 Handicap Chase

SOUBRIQUET bounced back to form having shown little of note in recent months. He raced prominently and stayed on to hold an in-form second.
GENERAL HARDI is in the groove right now and was closing on the winner at the line, well clear of the remainder. This was a very creditable effort given that he was dropping back in trip by a mile.
NILE MOON didn’t look comfortable for much of the way but plugged on from two out before running out of puff on the long run-in. He’s not bad on his day but does need things to fall his way.
BROADWAY STAR stayed on from the second last, looked likely to take third but weakened close home. This run offered just a glimmer of encouragement compared to his previous chasing efforts.
INDIANA GOLD took the lead four out and seemed to be going quite well, but he gave way tow out and weakened. He won in France last year and might have a chance of landing a race in time.
TOULOUSE EXPRESS has two ways of running and felt the pinch from four out.
BACK TO THE WIND was too keen early, weakened three out and was pulled up before the last.
KARELIAN jumped slowly, soon lost touch and was pulled up before the ninth.

4.30 2m ½ f 0-96 Handicap Chase

RUBY ISABEL followed up her Towcester win, staying on well form the last and rewarding Tim Vaughan who is never afraid to travel in search of opportunities.
TROODOS JET was a little disappointing at Cartmel but bounced back to form here, finding a progressive one too good. He’s normally in the mix in this company.
KING’S MAJESTY plugged on for third without threatening.
SCHINKEN OTTO was ridden four out and held from two out. Conditions were right here, but he needs a race where he can dictate terms.
Maiden jumper SKIDDAW JONES was held from three out, as was CROFTON ARCH who seemed a good deal happier round the quirky Cartmel circuit.
ANOTHER DARK RUM has regressed after showing some promise, finishing tailed off, and STAR TENOR was always in the rear.

MEETINGS MAN saw off LUCKY QUAY in the juvenile hurdle though his jumping was rather hairy once in front. The impression is that a fluent hurdler could see off both of these. The hurdle form looks below average at this meeting and there wasn’t much I would take forward.

[robnorth]

HEXHAM – Sunday June 20th

Going – Good to Firm (Good in places)

A large attendance was in evidence as Hexham’s Ladies’ Day closed activities at high Yarridge until October.

3.30 2m 4 ½ f Class 4 Novices’ Chase

FLYING DOCTOR has been in rattling good form over hurdles and carried that forward to his chasing debut. Given that his hurdles wins have been over longer distances this win is all the more creditable. It’s worth noting that the second and third have fair performances in their recent record. Flying Doctor came clear after being ridden up the hill and looks likely to score again.
DIAVOLERIA was outpaced on the downhill run to three out but stayed on again from two out.
ALWAYS BOLD was under pressure and held by the top of the hill. He could well benefit from a step up in trip.
MISS SUNFLOWER moved into midfield down four out but couldn’t make any impact.
Wining pointer DOUGALL was never dangerous on his Rules debut, while another point winner FLAG HILL plugged on past a couple late on but was well beaten.
Poor performers SHORT STRAW and NAUGHTY DIESEL trailed in at the rear.
GUNNER SNOW jumped slowly and lost touch from the ninth, being pulled up before three out.

4.30 3m 1f 0-112 Handicap Chase

SIMPLY SMASHING won the four miler here in March. He then disappointed in softened ground at Perth before running below par off a slow pace last time. The pace was generous here and Simply Smashing was detached by the tenth. What he does do is keep staying on though and getting in touch up the hill he came away to win with a bit to spare. This ground suits him just right.
HARRY FLASHMAN ran a creditable race, taking the running up at the tenth and seeing off all bar the winner by the last.
VON GELEN disputed two out from which point he was held. He’s not the most reliable though a previous run good run at Towcester suggests he’s favoured by a stiff finish.
SYCHO FRED made progress to chase the leaders three out but could make no further impact. Not a bad run from ‘6lbs wrong’ but he’s not easy to win with.
EXECUTIVE’S HALL had a chance three out but was held form two out. He’s stoutly bred, got competitive for a way here and as a six-year-old has time on his side. He might just be worth keeping an eye on in his next few runs.
ESME RIDES A GAINE is unreliable and took little interest on this occasion, though picking off a few late on.
TOULOUSE EXPRESS needs to dictate and soon lost interest once it was clear he couldn’t get to the front. It’s doubtful he’d stay this distance anyway.
TEENANDO faded from the thirteenth and his good 2008/09 form is a distant memory.
LINDSEYFIELD LODGE lost his rider as the runners approached the tape.
CHERNIK had made progress to four out and had every chance when unseating three out. NILE MOON was another in with a chance, but made a pig’s ear of the same fence and was pulled up before the next having lost his action.
TULLY HILL led early and was still in touch when pulling up rapidly going up the hill for the final time. He was dismounted and since there was no report made on the BHA website I can’t confirm if he suffered injury. I hope that no news is good news.
THE GREEN HAT was outpaced going to four out, weakened and was pulled up before the last.
OUR JIM raced prominently early but lost his position before halfway and was pulled up before fence thirteen.

WEETFROMTHECHAFF won the opening two mile novice hurdle, but it looked a poor contest. MWALESHI was well touted but pulled too hard and may produce better if he learns to settle.
MAJESTIC MAYHEM’s win in the closing novices’ hurdle looks decent with a hurdles winner and a fair chaser in behind. He stayed on strongly and has more in the tank, with a move up to three miles likely to pay dividends.
CROSBY JEMMA was nudged out to win the 0-113 handicap hurdle, but she is likely to struggle when moved up the weights. CELTICELLO was second but is a weak finisher and the third DAYTIME DREAMER is no better than ordinary, though he may benefit from the outing after a break.

[robnorth]

PERTH – Wednesday 30th June

Going – Good To firm (firm in places)

This was very much summer form with the ground as fast as it is likely to get in this part of the world. Gordon Elliott made hay while the Scottish sun shone, one of his regular raids from his Irish base paying dividends three times on each day of the meeting.

2.20 3m ½ f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

A very comfortable win for Gordon Elliott’s winning pointer ABBEY LANE, adding to a win in a Gowran Park maiden hurdle some ten days previously. He just had to be pushed out to win this event and this impression is that there is a fair bit to come, probably over fences in the long term.
KEMBLA GRANGE saw out the trip on stepping up from 2½ miles. He stayed on gamely from two out but was no match for the winner, though he showed enough to hint that a small race is his for the taking.
ELUSIVE MUSE, another long distance traveller but this time from Wales, led until after three out, keeping on at one pace for third.

2.50 2m Class 4 Novices’ Chase

Tragedy struck in the second race as the mare TREATY FLYER came clear up the straight seemingly on the way to an impressive victory. She came crashing down at the last in what proved to be a fatal fall. A prolific winner, she seemed to have taken to chasing very well and will be sorely missed in Alison Thorpe’s stable.
RED KINGDOM was well held when left in front but summoned enough to hold on from the last. He looks better over fences than he did over hurdles and there will probably be better to come.
STAGECOACH PEARL was hard driven four out but stayed near enough to the second to challenge on the flat.
GRAND OPERA kept on for third though never looked like winning.
ALL THE THE CAUSE ran no sort of race and was well beaten.
SALTRASH lost touch on the final circuit and, given that he was reported as having bled from the nose, it was surprising he wasn’t pulled up.

3.20 2m 4½f Class 4 Mares’ Maiden Hurdle

NIAMH’S WAY, rated only 81, stayed on to win this though the form looks worth very little.
Bumper winner GRACE N’ FAVOUR led until before the last and was then one paced under pressure.
MILLROCK LADY raced close up but struggled from two out.
MODESTINE raced prominently until hanging badly left after the seventh and being pulled up. The manner of her exit suggested a problem, physically, mentally or with the tack.

3.50 3m 0-130 Handicap Chase

All BILL’S ECHO’s wins have come on good or faster ground and he returned to his best, picking up from two out and leading at the last. He’s dropped the best part of 20lbs in the ratings over 20 months and that won’t have done any harm.
HARRY FLASHMAN ran another sound enough race, though he might well have won having been left clear on the home bend. I wonder if he was giving it his all from the last.
WESTERN GALE kept on for third without ever being better placed. He’s not running as well as he is capable currently, though I suspect a stiffer track will do no harm.
BEAR WITNESS tracked the leaders but was held from three out.
FLYING DOCTOR got reminders going to thirteenth and was driven. He did respond to get in touch, but then whacked three out causing his jockey to lose his irons. Jon Farrelly made a decent recovery, but all chance had gone. On balance this was no bad handicap debut and I believe he can make his mark in similar events.
SHERIFF HUTTON, with conditions to suit, was beaten after three out and eased down to come in last.
PETIE MARGOT had been driven for some way but was still hustling Harry Flashman when her rider came adrift on the home bend. It appeared to me that Paddy Brennan may have had a tack problem as he exited ‘stage left’.

4.20 2m 4½f 0-105 Handicap Chase

KING ROONAH had looked a winner in waiting on more than one occasion of late and obliged at what seemed a very generous 7/2. He challenged on the bridle too out though got lazy on the run-in and had to be driven out. He was beaten in better company the next day but should win another chase.
EMOTIVE progressed through the field from three out. He never looked like winning and, though he has taken quite well to chasing, he is frustrating.
STOLEN LIGHT stayed on for third having been in the lead or near the front most of the way. This was a good effort from 12lbs wrong, but does devalue the form a bit.
STORM PROSPECT is a cussed individual though did consent to stay on from the rear for fourth. Peter Buchanan deserves plaudits for his persistence.
ICE IMAGE once again proved a softy at the sharp end, fading from two out.
CLUELESS dropped away from three out and hasn’t shown much other than a brief glimmer when fourth at Sedgefield.
HIGH STAND LAD lost touch from the tenth. He won at hurdle at Musselburgh last season when able to dictate and needs things his own way.
NOBLE COMMANDER weakened three out, BROADWAY STAR was feeling the pinch from the eleventh and ATHOSS was never going.

4.50 2m ½f 0-130 Handicap Hurdle

WIKAALA has looked a tough sort to win with, but she showed enough determination in the closing stages to win this fair quality handicap hurdle.
DISHDASHA has been in good form of late and stayed on well for second. He still looks competitive off 130 and won’t be a huge amount higher after this.
Keen going RAMPANT RONNIE, wearing a first-time tongue-tie, led until headed at the last and could offer no extra. Nevertheless he put up a respectable effort.
SPA WELLS raced prominently and kept on for fourth, ahead of ANNIBALE CARO who was held from before the last.
PERTH – Thursday July 1st

Going – Good To Firm easing to Good (Good To Firm in places)

With rain about, and it’s much needed in the area at the moment, the ground eased in the early part of the afternoon.

2.20 2m ½f Class 4 Novices’ Hurdle

RIVERSCAPE’s Downpatrick victory suggested that she had more to give. This proved to be the case as she saw off two higher rated opponents. Getting into contention form two out, she led on the flat and ran on well.
WIND SHUFFLE ran creditably enough in second, disputing three out, leading from two out until the flat and running on once headed. He should be capable of picking up a novice or perhaps a handicap.
BEIDH TINE ANSEO was held from before the last here though this was a good deal tougher than previous assignments. He is only young and I’d be surprised if his progression has ceased.
MR NOBODY kept on steadily from the rear and Tony Martin might be expected to place him to advantage somewhere along the line.
WHAT A RIDDLE ran creditably but appeared held when coming down two out.

2.50 3m ½f 0-105 Handicap Hurdle

With sixteen going to post this race was big on numbers but decent form was thin on the ground.

LONG WAIT won this very easily having taken time to get the hang of the job over hurdles. There looks to be more to come though the form has to be seen in the context of the quality of opposition.
TARKANI normally manages to avoid exerting himself to the full though stayed on for second.
MAOLISA, who is moderate but does stay well, kept on for third having been thereabouts for most of the race.
FOLLOW ON passed a few late on to finish fourth. His only win was at Hexham and that stiff track would suit him better.
HERMOSO appeared to have run out passing the stands for the second time, but it transpired that Sam Twiston-Davies had ridden a finish a circuit too soon, an offence for which he was awarded a 12 day ‘holiday’.

3.20 3m 0-90 Handicap Chase

HURRICANE JACK normally finds that the fences get in his way. However, he ran respectably in first-time blinkers last time and stepped up here against soft opposition.
GERSHWINNER has been mainly disappointing since winning here last year. His jockey gave him reminders even before the first fence though he did keep on for second place.
EXECUTIVE’S HALL was outpaced to three out but stayed on again for second. He has time to develop and I believe he has staying chase wins within him given time.
LORD LESCRIBAA dropped out of contention form three out. He blew hot and cold in points and seems pretty much the same in ‘senior company’.
HASPER was going nowhere when taking the thirteenth by the roots and unseating Gillan Crow.
JANAL raced up with the pace early but dropped away on the final circuit and was pulled up. He isn’t currently hinting at adding to his only win.
SHORT STRAW has shown little to date and was beaten past halfway, being pulled up before the back straight for the last time.
The blinkers applied to ASH HIGH brought no improvement and he was tailed off when pulled up before four out.

3.50 3m Class 4 Novices’ Chase

This could turn out to be a strong contest with the first three potential 140+ level over fences.

BILLIE MAGERN has plenty of pace and jumps well. He ran this field of novices ragged, had the race won down the home straight. Given that the second is rated 132 and the third has a hurdles mark of 145, then there’s every reason to suggest that Billie might be capable of scaling the heights that brother Ollie reached. He certainly looks a natural at this game.
DEL RIO couldn’t match the winner, and a mistake four out didn’t help, but he kept on to see out the trip in second place. He will turn into a decent handicap chaser in time.
CHICAGO GREY’s jumping wasn’t as slick as that of the first two and he was outpaced after four out. He has the basic ability and is another decent prospect given a chase or two under his belt.
CORRICK BRIDGE ran respectably coming off an 8 month break. He had a fair second to his name previously and plugged on in the straight. He would be unlucky to cop such sharp opposition in future events.
Maiden Irish point winner QUEEN COURT had a very tough task on her second chasing outing. She did well to stay in contention until two out before the effort told. Connections must take encouragement from this effort.
DUKEOFCHESTERWOOD, who has always looked a potential chaser, jumped competently but faded steadily from the twelfth. This was a tough ask and he can find his level in time.
AURIFEX had no chance and was tailed off in the last mile.
HAVING NIGHTMARES lost touch form four out.

4.20 2m 4 ½ f 0-130 Handicap Chase

NATIVE CORAL had a dismal ‘09/10 but showed that he’s no back number by coming from the rear off a strong pace. The race was probably run to suit but he has a fine record here which reads 121161. Fast ground suits and he’s now four out of five at trips around two miles and a half.
QUITO DU TRESOR takes a lot of credit since he raced up with a decent pace all the way and looked to have seen off his field by the last, only for the winner to arrive with a wet sail late on. He is consistent, goes well on good or faster and should add to his tally of wins in the near future.
STAGECOACH AMBER kept on for third though never able to dominate the field as he would wish.
KNIGHT LEGEND gave way two out having led or disputed to that point. This was a fair effort but he’s not as good as he once was and time is starting to catch up.
RETRIEVETHELEGEND, returning to fences having been hurdling since a fall last September, was held up and never got seriously involved.
SOUBRIQUET made on impact here though this race was a good deal tougher than the company he beat at Sedgefield.
KING ROONAH was beaten before three out. This was a rise in class and his efforts of the previous day may not helped.
STORYMAKER lost touch before four out and ANOTHER AMBITION had been dropped a fence earlier, eventually pulling up before three out.

4.50 2m 4½f 0-90 Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

This was a very moderate event which looked likely to go to GRAND ART. Coming off a lay-off well in excess of a year he was going very well two out. He veered left when put under pressure going to the last, interfering with Can’t Remember in the process and, though he stayed on well enough to hold on, he lost the race in the stewards’ room. Tim Vaughan seems to have Grand Art back to the form he’s capable of and he might well make amends.
CAN’T REMEMBER has shown form on and off but wouldn’t go down as consistent. She came to challenge at the last and rallied after being bumped approaching the hurdle. She showed determination and it could be that the tongue-tie applied here made a difference to her.
KNIGHT VALLIANT showed continued signs of revival in third, staying on from two out.
PAPRADON led until two out but was one paced once headed.
MIDDLEMARCH didn’t run so freely this time, the visor having been dispensed with, and kept on for fifth.

5.20 2m NH Flat

ESPERAO led under pressure after two furlongs on the bridle two out, then had to have pressure applied to pick up a furlong out from which point he came away from his field.
CORKY DANCER stayed on for second. He’s not quite confirmed the promise of hiss debut win but he looks good enough to make a mark over hurdles.
INISHARGIE was held once passed two out. He lacks pace over this trip and will come into own given a stiffer test of stamina over hurdles.
BLUE SHIRT LILLY was outpaced five out, but she was not pressed by her rider from that point and is probably better than the distances suggest.

[robnorth]

PERTH – Sunday July 11th

Going – Good to Firm

2.10 2m 110yds Toteplacepot (4) Maiden Hurdle

DESERT SOUL guaranteed a decent pace, racing as freely as usual. Predictably he found the others too sharp once turned for home, dropping away quickly.
BAAHER gained reward following some decent placed efforts. He sweated up before the start, but certainly seemed none the worse for it. He challenged from two out and showed resolution to head the runner-up in the final furlong. He should be capable of picking up a novice under a penalty or a handicap.
DEFINITE ALL STAR led after two out but was just run out of it approaching the finish. He should finds consolation and his trainer is more than capable of placing him to win.
NODFORMS VIOLET was outpaced approaching the last and this distance over a sharp track didn’t play to his strengths. He’ll be a different horse given a stiffer test.
DEVOTION TO DUTY is rated higher than the winner but surrendered rather tamely after three out.

2.40 2m 4f 110yds Toteswinger Flexi Betting (4) Novices’ Chase

This was a stroll in Scone Park for BILLIE MAGERN. He was rated well above his nearest rival and was not extended to pick up first prize. He’ll see off much better opposition than this before the fast ground disappears.
RIGHT OR WRONG was well held but not troubled for second.
ADRIANEO got round but lost touch from the eighth.
ELLANDSHE pootled round for another completion at his own sedate pace, though his jumping has been better. He added a little to his ‘keep fund’ in the process.

3.10 2m 4f 100yds Exclusive Lodges (4) Novices’ Hurdle

Maurice Barnes’ stable has been in decent form in recent months, and he has done well with a few novices. BUCEPHALUS added to the tally by seeing off a decent opponent in NEDZER’S RETURN, though the latter has the Galway Plate as a main target and this was surely only a stepping stone. Both showed plenty of determination from two out.
The first three had the rest beaten from four out, ROSE STREET trying to match the pace set by the second but stick with the first two in the straight.

3.40 3m 110yds Tote Exacta Flexi Betting (0-113) Handicap Hurdle

Nigel Twiston-Davies has kept a few aside for a tilt at Perth in recent years. He’s been eclipsed by Gordon Elliott in recent times, but HERMOSO went some way to proving that the Gloucestershire stable still earmark a few for Scottish raids. This performance made up for Sam Twiston-Davies’s clanger at the previous meeting when riding an early finish. Most of these are exposed, but Hermoso is lightly raced and progressive. He looked as if he felt he’d done enough, but stayed on well enough under pressure and should win again soon.
SPARKLING ZOLA ran to his best in second, while TARKANI stayed on for third, but this is his normal style and he’s tough to win with.
LONG WAIT was held under his weight rise, being held approaching the last.
FLY TIPPER and BRONX BOY ran creditably enough and finished quite close. Both can find easier opportunities in 0-100 company or lower off their current marks.
CATCH THE PERK found it hard work from three out and, having set the pace, STROBE dropped away quickly once headed approaching two out.
PADDINGTON BOB was in contention when going wrong approaching two out and being swiftly pulled up. There was no report registered giving a reason.

4.10 2m 4f 110yds Tote Flexi Betting (0-124) Handicap Chase

This race was won comfortably by RETRIEVETHELEGEND, but he’s exposed and I’m not sure any of the rest ran to their form. While the winner is in good heart I doubt he’ll be value next time.
RUN TO SPACE was outpaced going to four out when the winner had the whole field in trouble, but kept on again to take second.
ISLAND FLYER weakened from two out having failed to match the winner.
GO SILVER BULLET couldn’t dominate here but he lost a shoe anyway, so it may be that this run can be set aside.
CROFTON ARCH had no chance from miles out of the handicap and was the last to finish.
BOW SCHOOL was disappointing again, a ‘nasal discharge’ being reported after he had pulled up before three out.

4.40 2m 110yds Queen Tribute Band July 27th (0-95) Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle

It has taken a time for the money to drop with SHOPFRONTSPECIALST. He’s often been well backed but never quite produced what someone clearly thought he could. He put things right in emphatic fashion on this occasion, admittedly against a moderate bunch, having the race in the bag from two out.
The rest are at best a ‘win in turn’ collection. FRONT RANK ran to his level in second.
TIGER KING hinted that he is no back number in third, keeping on without threatening the first two. That being said he’s only a winner of one race and that was in 2007.
SEA COVE kept on from the rear for pressure to finish sixth and needs a stiffer test than she got here. Her rider got unbalanced on the run to the last which possibly cost her a place or two, and she might be noting in a weak contest.

5.10 2m 110yds totepool A Better Way To Bet Standard Open NH Flat Race (Class 5)

It’s difficult to draw too many conclusions from a close fought four-runner bumper.
CIANNTE saw off Hallmark Harry in a close finish with the other two held from two furlongs out. Having had a couple of respectable runs the winner was able to take an opportunity here.
HALLMARK HARRY was behind at Southwell in January but was at least competitive against one with some promising form.
FLOAT MY BOAT was outspeeded in the straight.
The fourth, BURAIMI OASIS, looked to have a bit of growing to do when I saw him at Musselburgh in December. There is probably better to come but a watching brief is advised.

[robnorth]

CARTMEL – Thursday July 15th

Going – Good (Good to Soft in places)

Recent rain, much welcomed by the locals for some reasons, meant the going for this meeting was just on the soft side of good. Despite indifferent weather the crowd held up quite well though a figure of 5,500 was a little down on last year’s figure.

Time constraints mean I’m concentrating on the chases with brief notes about the hurdles contests.

2.30 2m 1f 110yds European Breeders’ Fund (4) Beginners’ Chase

Not a strong event and we didn’t learn an awful lot more about STAGECOACH PEARL. However, he did see off moderate opposition comfortably and couldn’t be asked to do any more. Always going well, he went clear on the long run-in.
KIND HEART made a satisfactory chasing bow. He was a little awkward at one or two fences and was left behind on the flat. He’ll probably be better over a stiffer track and will come on for the experience.
RISK RUNNER stayed on from the rear for third. He had every right to get involved considering his hurdles mark, but given that his win came at Newcastle then it’s not difficult to conclude that this track will not bring out the best in him.
GOUGANE was never in the hunt and finished a well beaten fourth.
EL PRESIDENTE didn’t achieve much on his chase sat Fakenham, despite a second place, and was feeling the pinch four out.
OVERQUEST made brief progress from the rear to the seventh but didn’t get near the leaders.
Pointing winner SENDEED has not hinted at making a mark under Rules and was tailed off from the eighth.
LISGLYNN JIM was ridden at halfway and pulled up at the eighth.

3.00 2m 1f 110yds Temple Heelis Commercial LLP (0-92) Handicap Chase

HIGH STAND LAD looks at his best when able to ‘bully’ inferior opponents, though he can’t be relied on even given those circumstances. A tongue strap was tried here and it’s possible that measure worked the oracle. He went on from four out and was well clear by the last, this effort by far his best over fences.
PEAK SEASONS chased the leader from the ninth and performed as well as he ahs done of late. He’s basically very ordinary though and has run many times since his last win.
ICE IMAGE is frustrating but kept on to take third.
HAPTHOR passed a few late on from the rear. He places occasionally but it looks hard work.
PINEWOOD LEGEND was another to make some moderate late progress.
CROFTON ARCH ran two good races here in May but reverted to his previous moderate form on this occasion.
LUKIE VICTOR faded from the ninth. He’s not sparkled for a yard which often improves horses joining them.
WELL OILED was tailed off and looks very moderate.
WENSLEYDALE WEB, who has gone consistently well here in hurdles, does not look a natural chaser and was always struggling.
TROODOS JET, normally thereabouts in this company, was close up when falling at the eighth, while EMOTIVE was in contention when overjumping and falling at the water (four out).

3.40 3m 2f Weatherbys Bank (0-120) Handicap Chase

An open event with most looking to be handicapped at their level.
MIZEN RAVEN led two out and, despite being hampered on the run-in, was driven out to the line for a narrow victory. He showed the right attitude but will find it more difficult next time.
DUKEOFCHESTERWOOD has struck me as a type capable of winning chases. He performed creditably in only his second run over fences, challenging from three out if held in the final furlong. He was squeezed for space on the run-in, but held on merit. He will learn from the experience and I’d expect him to win a staying handicap chase.
DALLAS BELL was held up but made progress in the final mile to chase the leader on the run-in. This was arguably his best effort over fences.
PETITE MARGOT had to rousted along for much of the trip, but as is here way she remained in contention. She was outpaced going to three out but stayed on after the last to finish a close fourth.
THE ARTFUL FOX led or was close up most of the way but weakened quickly after the last.
WESTERN GALE was pressed to remain in touch for much of the way and lost touch approaching the last.
ONTHEGOAGAIN was tailed off in the final mile. He’s a winner at Hexham and it likely this course didn’t suit him.
THUNDER HAWK led early but dropped out quickly from the seventh and was soon pulled up.

A moderate opening novices’ hurdle was fought out between the two form principals, OURSININLAW and OUR GUARDIAN ANGEL, the former suited by a step back up to a more suitable trip. They beat a poor collection of opponents.
Maurice Barnes’s good year continued as he produced BOLD EXIT, a cheap purchase from Tom George’s yard, to win the maiden hurdle. The race lacked any strength but Barnes has managed to get a few moderate performers to progress in recent times, and this one saw off the second by 24 lengths. The favourite, Donald McCain’s FLICHITY, was thoroughly uncooperative, unruly in the preliminaries and hurdling poorly in the race. He finished well tailed off.
RARE COINCIDENCE scored a first hurdles win since 2006 in the 0-110 handicap over Cartmel’s minimum distance. CANNON FIRE led two out but was caught near the finish while SOUBRIQUET returned to form with a close third, the three finishing clear.
MONKHAIR was a comfortable winner of the closing novices’ handicap, though he gave his supporters a scare when stumbling and almost unseating close home. Spinning around this tight circuit seemed to suit this one down to the ground.

[Author]

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