North’s notes

[robnorth]

AYR – Saturday November 1st

Going – Good to Soft, Soft in places

Ayr welcomed in November with a card which served the role of ‘under-card’ to some decent racing at Ascot and Wetherby as the National Hunt season kicks into gear. Nevertheless there are a few pointers going forward, including an encouraging run from Outlaw Tom.

1.05 2m – John Smith’s Mares’ Maiden Hurdle (Class 5)

Not an inspiring event to commence the programme.

ARDNAHOE showed promise in bumpers and started nicely over hurdles here. Travelling prominently, she led two out and was driven out to score. Only a four-year-old, she should be able to build on this.
BOBS LADY TAMURE has had more experience than the others here and sets the mark with her 95 rating. She had every chance two out but found the winner too good in the latter stages. She’s nothing special but does see her races out and should find a little handicap or weak mares’ maiden hurdle somewhere along the line.
KNOCKLAYDE SNO CAT had every chance down the straight and wasn’t good enough from before the last.
JENNY’S MELODY struggled to go the pace two out but picked up late on under a vigorous ride from Paul Moloney. The jockey reported his mount as still raw and likely to come on for the experience.
LUCKY BUTTONS had her chance and could only find one pace from before the last.
THIS THYNE JUDE is a strongly built chasing sort who has needed time. She’s still a bit keen but should make her mark at a lowly level in time.

1.40 2m 4½f Lomond Plant Handicap Chase (97-115)

There seems to have been a re-arrangement of starting positions as there used to be 2m 4f and 2m 5f starts here but this one between the two gave a shortish run to the first.

Five out of six of these had a tongue-tie which suggests a lot of breathing difficulties in the past. REDPENDER sported the mouth apparatus for the first time, and it appeared to bring about some improvement. Chased the clear leader for some way, he was outpaced a mile out but picked up in the latter stages to win a shade cosily. Whether he can progress from this is a moot point.
CARLOS FANDANGO didn’t convince with his jumping but kept on for second place. He looked very fit for this and would need to brush up his fencing to achieve more.
HARRYS WHIM set off in front as is her way. She plugged on after being headed three out but probably raced too freely early on.
SUBLIME TALENT was always towards the rear and never got seriously involved, and BALLYCOOL was another never seen with a serious chance. He’s capable of better and his winning form is around two miles.
RED TANBER looked a shadow of his 2011/12 self returning after a season off. After hitting the ninth hard he soon lost touch and was pulled before four out.

2.15 3m ½f Plumbstone Handicap Hurdle (95-115)

Not the strongest event of its type, and one that turned into a penalty kick for the in-form TOP BILLING. Nicky Richards charge comfortably slotted it ‘into the corner of the net’ asserting from three out and clear at the last. He’s gone up 23lbs this autumn and continues on an upward curve, though will probably be forced into more competitive contests now.
QUEL ELITE has often threatened to be a bit better than he has actually produced. Held up here, he stayed on up the straight without threatening the winner. He often runs passably but is 1 from 20 over hurdles.
WELLFORTH set the pace or disputed until headed by the winner three out and was passed by the second at the last hurdle. He essentially a staying chaser, his last run was when falling in the Haydock Grand National Trial, so new connections will presumably be happy with this effort.
ISAACSTOWN LAD hasn’t made too much of a mark under Rules to date and never got close enough to get in a blow here.
BESCOT SPRINGS was held from three out and below par.
MAKHZOON raced prominently early but lost his place down the far side for the final time and nick alexander reported him as having knocked a leg. He was dismounted but reported as fine the next morning.

2.50 3m 1f John Smith’s Handicap Chase (107-109)

I had to watch the replay of this one to get a reasonable idea of how things panned out. When I have an ownership interest then I only have eyes for one horse though Outlaw Tom really pleased us with his effort here.

The winner PRESENTING JUNIOR is a progressive seven-year-old who has moved from a rating of 74 up to the 108 he ran off here. Second to Always Right on Monday, he came here looking fresh and well. Tracking the pace set by Outlaw Tom he quickened between the last two and had the race won from there, staying no strongly to the line. Much depends on how the handicapper measures this form, but Martin Todhunter and connections have a cracking improving stayer on their hands, surely capable of winning again.
OUTLAW TOM set the pace, Peter Buchanan’s intention being to try to burn the finish out of the winner. It’s a balancing act which didn’t come off but the gelding jumped well enough in the main and saw his race out strongly to the line and had the other two well beaten. He pecked a bit at the fourth last and didn’t meet the third last quite last, but on balance he was beaten by a better animal on the day. All systems go now for the 4 mile Northumberland County Chase at Hexham on November 19th.
Given that my record as ‘owner on course’ is abysmal, I reckon I can be excused for being first into the unsaddling enclosure and making the most of the placing! My best placing when presen on course had been a sixth, and bear in mind that I started with a tailed off in a six furlong seller at Windsor! It could only get better from that point.
STRIKE FAST is lightly raced under Rules though did win a point. He was beaten once Outlaw Tom upped the pace from four out, but has shown a glimmer of ability and there is probably hope for this one.
BERTIE MILAN looked in need of this race, confirmed in Nick Alexander’s blog, and couldn’t go the pace from four out. He thumped three out and Kit Alexander did well to sit tight, needing most of the run to two out to organise his feet in the irons. This one is best with more cut and essentially an out and out stayer that we might run into again this season.

3.25 2m ½f John Smith’s No Nonsense Handicap Chase (108-135)

Two mile races normally start in the chute before the third last, but this was half a furlong longer and started at the exit to the back straight.
I missed the preliminaries due to pre-occupation with the previous race.

Welsh challenger DEFINITE DREAM prevailed in a close fought contest that saw four in with a chance at the last. He ran on well to land the race, coming off the back of a 172-day layoff. Not over-raced for a seven-year-old this one is going the right way and there looks to be more to come. He seems to run best when fresh.
TOO COOL TO FOOL saves his best for Ayr. He led from four out until the last and kept on well enough to the line. He’s versatile as far as distance is concerned and has kept his form very well at the age of 11.
AUTHINGER came to Barry Murtagh from Ireland having started his racing career in France. He was found wanting from the last but not totally disgraced. On balance of form he needs further than this.
MASTER OF THE GAME was well there until the last but found no more on the run-in. A decent enough effort suggesting that James Ewart can have a pot at the better 2m to 2m 4f chases in the North.
KUMBESHWAR didn’t jump fluently and was behind from three out. His trainer feels his lost his confidence over fences and she states that will take time with him at home.

4.00 2m John Smith’s Extra Smooth Handicap Hurdle (110-133)

Class told in this decent little handicap hurdle, with top weight FISHER wearing down the long-time leader to take it up on the run-in. He’s three from 7 over hurdles and likely to remain on a workable mark after a three-length victory.
CIRCUS STAR set off at a fair lick and was soon 25 lengths clear. I did wonder if John Dixon had misjudged things, but to the amateur pilot’s credit his mount was only caught at the last and only gave way after dogged resistance. A very good effort and connections have done well to channel tearaway tendencies in the right direction.
VOYAGE A NEW YORK chased the leader from three out but was held approaching the last. He will turn into a chaser eventually but his trainer is likely to resist the temptation to go over the big obstacles until next season. In the meantime he is likely to be upped in trip which should help over hurdles.
LORD WISHES ran creditably enough on his return to the track following a lay-off since April 2013. Once the rust is knocked off he has plenty enough talent to win decent handicap hurdles.
The tactics have been changed with CAPTAIN BROWN, hold up being the order of the day now, but I feel he’s better setting or up with the pace.
COOL BARANCA looked a bit dull in her coat and this might just have been one race too much. She never got involved seriously.

4.30 1m 6f BetVictor.com Newcomers NH Flat Race (Class 6)

The rain swept in from the Irish Sea before this event, causing many to depart the course. Anyone who knows my racing preferences will be well aware that these events are the ones I wait for. I’ve been tweeting some lousy paddock picks recently, but I kept my powder dry until the last here and came up with the winner.

ANOTHER BILL was a typical Nicky Richards ‘bumper job’, hard fit, relaxed in the paddock and schooled to do his job. He stood out in the paddock and was a no-brainer selection. He travelled smoothly into contention early in the straight and sprinted clear once the button was pressed. He’s a half-brother to Dark Glacier so will likely progress when going over obstacles.
VERONA OPERA is half-sister to flat, hurdles and chase winner Eye Candy. She challenged two out but was held by the winner once he increased the pace. Clear of the remainder she was unlucky to run into such a sharp sort.
VERNI is a decent looking gelding who has plenty of decent jumping blood on his dam’s side. Green in the preliminaries, as were a few here, he was outpaced in the final two furlongs but did enough to suggest he can make a mark in time.
MASTER MOON, another green in the paddock, is a half-brother to a seven furlong winner. He was left behind from two out. His dam was a 10-furlong flat winner rated 78 so two mile hurdles probably wouldn’t be stretching his stamina too much.
Greenest of the lot in the paddock, and starting the others off, CA LE FERRA led from a mile out but gave way over two furlongs out. He’s a half-brother to multiple pointing/Rules winner Saveiro and also to hurdles winner Plus Jamais. One to keep an eye on.
COOKING FAT raced prominently for a long way. Her dam stayed well and was multiple winner over hurdles and on the flat. Rather lumbered with his racing name, but showed enough to suggest that a serious racehorse may surface in time.
DIMPLE is a strong looking jumping sort but was seriously wayward here. Refusing to corner turning for home he careered through the rails, dislodged his jockey and, by means unseen, ended up running up and down the car park to the left of the stands. Your correspondent, looking to make a sharp exit, was rather alarmed to see Dimple cantering across in front of him. Thankfully after some scares the gelding was caught and seemed none the worse. Looks like equine psychologist territory though!

[robnorth]

MUSSELBURGH – Thursday November 6th

Going – Good

A damp and chilly day to pen the jumps season at Musselburgh, but the course avoided the worst of the wet weather that hit Scotland. The resulting ground was described by jockeys asked as ‘perfect’.

1:00 2m 100% Racing UK Profits Return to Racing Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle (93-108)

A low key start to the season here, six Class 4 events, and the opener saw a bunch of largely exposed performers take each other on in a ‘whose turn is today?’ handicap hurdle.

CLAUDE CARTER is capable on his day, but I’m sure even his trainer can’t be sure when that day is going to be. He took up the running on the final bend and saw off all-comers up the straight. He’s by no means guaranteed to produce a similar effort next time and is now 4 from 52.
AMILLIONTIMES has been consistent for his Aberdeenshire trainer over the summer and put in another sound effort, always prominent and chipping away at the winner from two if unable to wear him down. He goes well on good ground and is most likely to be seen here again if the ground remains decent.
ENDEAVOR isn’t running badly at the moment and stayed on from two out for third place. He has fair wins to starts record, but can be difficult to catch just right.
SEPARATE SHADOWS was nicely fit after a break, came there with a chance three out but couldn’t make an impact from thereon. No real excuses as far as I could see, he just wasn’t good enough on the day.
URBAN KODE was up with the pace but faded from three out. The race will have done him no harm.
Three-year-old ISTIMRAAR was comfortably held from two out, but may well benefit from the handicapping debut against more seasoned opponents.
BEIDH TINE ANSEO disappointed, as did the veteran DHAULAR DHAR, consistent on the flat of late but perhaps not over enamoured with hurdling in the damp and chill.

Son of the winning trainer, Ewan Whillans has retired as a jockey and now taken to assisting his father with training. Don’t be surprised if the license passed to son in the near future.

1:30 2m Bespoke Event Management Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)

The principals here all seemed fit enough to do themselves justice.

Coming into this race with the best Official Rating, ROSERROW made all and was comfortably in command up the straight. He took time to click over hurdles but is now going the right way.
RIDE THE RANGE followed up a win at Hexham over an extra four furlongs by staying on late take second place. This would be more than sharpish for him and a stiffer test would suit better. On the face of it a decent effort and it would be reasonable to expect a win under a penalty given the right circumstances.
NARCISSIST had every chance here and simply wasn’t good enough at the sharp end. I’m just wary of his commitment at the business end.
CRINKLE CRAG was held up and never got to grips with the leaders. He’s probably of stepping up on this.
WHY BUT WHY has plenty of jumping experience and won over fences in Ireland. He’s a two miler and it’s likely to be in handicap chases where he will show up best.

2:00 2m 4f Racing UK Available Anywhere Now Novices’ Handicap Chase (87-105)

An eventful race in which only one finished recording the first ‘finished alone’ that I can recall watching in over 40 years of watching live racing.

SHINE A DIAMOND had to survive a number of dicey jumps, including practically walking through the twelfth, before being left on his own three out. Even then he was getting the worst of the issue at that point. He doesn’t look reliable material against competent fencers at this point. All credit to the capable Graham Watters for a great ‘sit’ at fence 12.
BORUMA hadn’t been anywhere near foot perfect and along with the winner had to skip round a faller and an errant loose horse on the way round. There’s probably a chase in this one with experience and, at four-years-old, one would hope he will learn.
THE BACKUP PLAN had put in the odd sketchy jump before coming down at the eighth. I watched from side on to this fence and Jason Maguire was optimistic asking a novice to pick a stride. The writing was on the wall two strides out, two became three and the partnership slithered to the ground landing side. Maguire held on to the reins to make sure The Backup Plan didn’t go hurtling off and no damage done to either party. This one will win a chase in time.
TWEEDO PARADISO thumped the fourth and decanted Wilson Renwick, subsequently making a pest of himself to the two remaining runners down the far side for a second time.

2:30 3m ½f Bet With Your Racing UK App Handicap Hurdle (64-105)

ONE FOR HOCKY, a keen sort who was equipped with a hood in the paddock, has proven consistent and showed determination to get his head in front close home. I’m not sure he’s the easiest ride but Brian Hughes was on the money here, producing his mount on the spot. He saw out the trip well enough and there should be plenty of options even if he is moved up above the 100 level in the ratings.
DUN TO PERFECTION is a fair stayer at this level and led most of the way, kicking on with a circuit to go and only worn down close home. He rallied well and is one to keep on the right side in these lowly stamina tests.
ANOTHER DIMENSION chased the leader three out but weakened in the closing stages. A fair effort and he may find them getting away from him a bit around this quick circuit.
DRUMLISTER and FIGHT AWAY BOYS were held from three out, though the latter is less exposed and may do better in time over this sort of trip.

3:00 2m 4f Watch Racing UK Anywhere Handicap Hurdle (100-120)

Not a bad handicap hurdle for the level and won by a progressive type that may well step up in class.

NEXIUS finished last season in good form and picked up where he left off. Brought seriously into the race from three out, he asserted in the last half furlong as a pair pulled clear. This might prove a better effort than the winning distance suggests and he looks one to keep on the right side. There are some decently prized handicap hurdles he could be aimed at here in the coming months.
MERCHANT OF DUBAI is lightly raced over hurdles and arguably put up a personal best in finishing a close second. His sustained effort made a progressive opponent pull out all the stops from the last. He may run into the winner again, but I would imagine Jim Goldie will eye up similar opportunities here.
MO ROUGE has done sterling work alongside stable companion AMilliontimes this year, and ran another admirable race in finishing third. He was tapped for pace from before the last, but the slow early tempo wouldn’t have helped and he was not disgraced. He needs good ground so, like his stablemate, will likely be aimed here if kept on the go over the winter. Thumbs up to Inverurie based trainer Jackie Stephen who has done a fine job from her base two and half hours drive north of her nearest track.
TOTAL ASSETS set the pace and to his credit didn’t give up the ghost once passed. He summoned up sufficient stamina to keep on for fourth place. He probably needs a slightly stiffer test than this.
GURKHA BRAVE chased in vain from three out, while BOGSIDE was on the tails of the leaders early in the straight before giving way after two out.

3:30 3m Download RacingUK App Handicap Chase (75-105)

Unusual to finish with a staying chase, but the light is plenty good enough at half three on an afternoon in November.
The jumping was good deal better here than in the novice event earlier.

SHADY SADIE broke her maiden tag in convincing style, jumping soundly and going clear after leading two out. She needs decent ground and stays well.
FOOT THE BILL was on and off the bridle but put in some good work under pressure in the latter stages. He’s another unlikely to appear on ground too much softer than this and is regularly thereabouts in similar company.
LADY OF VERONA raced close up and stuck to her game under pressure up the straight before fading on the run-in.
The three were clear of GENEROUS CHIEF who remains a maiden and was held from two out.
ARMEDANDBEAUTIFUL travelled from Inkberrow in Worcestershire and was well fancied here. However, her jumping was sloppy and she was beaten before the final bend.
WINTER ALCHEMY won a selling handicap chase at Kelso in May, but generally finds a few too good in anything bar the weakest company. He set the pace for much of the way but gave way from three out.

MUSSELBURGH – Friday November 7th

The ground softened a shade overnight to Good to Soft, though the weather was much brighter at race time. I couldn’t make it for this card but there were some pointers worth noting.

The staying maiden hurdle was light on numbers, but the three finishers are well worth keeping in the notebook. MASTER DEE was hammered by a distinctly useful animal in Maximizer at Carlise, but stayed on well to land the spoils here. He’s not run a bad race to date and his trainer should be able to place him successfully in future.
TOMMY O’DWYER ran well to take second on hurdles debut and wouldn’t be hindered by a stiffer track.
FLY VINNIE, nibbled at fancy odds in the market, found the first two a bit too good, but wasn’t disgraced in third place and Sandy Thomson should be able to find a little staying contest for him near to home. He may have a fair purchase on his hands at £6,700.

The novices’ handicap chase was no more convincing for the future than the previous day’s effort. REAPING THE REWARD looked the likely winner until walking through five out and unseating. Left in front, WALTZ DARLING didn’t look overkeen when unaccompanied and odds-on favourite WELSH BARD didn’t look convincing at any point.

The two feature handicap hurdles had really decent prize money. FIRST FANDANGO, returning to hurdling, just held off CAPELLANUS in the three miler, the pair well clear of FULL JACK who has struggled off high marks since coming over from France.

In the two miler SMART RULER just held off in-form MASON HINDMARSH. However, the one I noted from this was YORKIST who wasn’t given an over-hard time once held and would relish softer ground (4 from 8 on soft or heavy). He has run well enough off his elevated mark to suggest he can pick up a stamina test in the mud.

BAILEYS CONCERTO continues in rattling good form for Dianne Sayer and ran up a seventh success in 8 attempts. He showed too much resolution close home for ROBBIE, though the latter was by no means disgraced. If we don’t get too much rain then there’s a decent two and a half mile chase here on New Year’s Day which might be a target.

[robnorth]

MUSSELBURGH – Friday November 28th

Going – Good

A low class card but, with good going prevailing after a reasonably dry spell in Scotland, decent sized fields unlike at a number of other courses of late.

12.05 3m ½f Saltire Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (64-100)

ONE FOR HOCKY is a progressive staying hurdler and that helps at a level full of regressives and non-achievers. Always travelling well, he took the lead before two out and soon put the race out of reach of his opponents. He will be up a grade now but should hold his own up in class.
BALLYREESODE stayed on for second without getting near the winner. He wasn’t disgraced on a track that doesn’t play to his strengths as well as the likes of Hexham and Newcastle.
DISCOVERIE has ability, but is hard work and could only plug on from two out. He often runs passably well but has yet to win.
WYFIELD ROSE set the pace until before two out. Still pitching for second at the last she faded on the run-in and she has yet to prove she sees out three miles.
CLONLENEY raced keenly up with the pace and was beaten three out.
FARMERS CROSS was visored for the first time, but he has been struggling of late from out of the handicap.
LEROY PARKER was a fair flat performer in Ireland (rated 74 at one time) but his jumps efforts in the UK have been generally dire. Hood and to the usual blinkers achieved nothing.

12.35 2m Dalhousie Bonnyrigg Mares’ Maiden Hurdle (Class 5)

THANKYOU VERY MUCH, a winner on the flat this year, raced prominently, took it up three out and stayed on well to hold her challengers. A step up on her Wetherby effort and there may be a mares’ novice event for her under a penalty. I suspect her trainer will be looking for decent ground.
TARA MAC stepped up on her previous effort, moving into contention up the straight but never getting to the winner. She blundered at the last, but I don’t think she would have won the race.
CATCHTHEMOONLIGHT ran creditably in third, picking off rivals up the straight but not getting to the winner. She needs riding like this, so if she’s going to win will probably be suited by a few battling for the lead and passing them late on.
STYLE SETTER got into contention in the straight but a couple of jumping blunders didn’t aid her cause and she was held form the last.
DEFINITELY GLAD disputed the lead but was under the pump three out and gradually faded.
KNOCKLAYDE SNO CAT is a lightly made filly. She wasn’t able to step up on a fair third at Ayr, making no impression up the straight.

1.10 2m 4f Donaldson Timber Engineering Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (101-120)

Irish trained BEARLY LEGAL was pressing the leader when left in front at the last. The likelihood is that he needs this decent ground so his trainer might well seek similar opportunities here in the coming months.
BORUMA raced well up with the pace, but he’s a dicey jumper and after taking a few liberties with his fences came a cropper at the last. He needed a decent leap at the last, put in a short one and clipped the top and came down. He has the speed but his jumping needs to improve.
COBAJAYISLAND raced up with the pace but was another who put in some risky leaps. He was keeping on when hampered by Boruma’s fall though recovering sufficiently to take second.
BETTER B QUICK raced keenly, though held a chance three out. He kept on after being left in third but would likely have been no better than fifth otherwise.
REAPING THE REWARD stayed on from three out. He looked to be getting just the worst of the argument when severely hampered at the last. He had to swerve violently to avoid Boruma and Craig Nichol did well to stay in the saddle, though any chance he had disappeared. Worth a try up in trip.
RYTON RUNNER never got into the race on chasing debut and his jumping didn’t convince.
THE ICE FACTOR looked very fit. He raced too keenly and he needs to pay more respect to his fences.
THINGS CHANGE was disappointing. His jumping was less than fluent and he was beaten three out.
BROKETHEGATE veered out towards the stable block at the start and did not take any serious part. He jumped four fences very stickily when tailed off before Diarmuid O’Regan pulled stumps.

1.45 2m 4f Cornhill Building Services Ltd Maiden Hurdle (Class 5)

FLY VINNIE built on a promising third here in a three mile event. This was arguably a bit short of what is likely to prove his best trip, but Danny cook set out to make the best of his stamina. He responded well when challenged and held on gamely from a determined challenger. Bearing in mind a promising rules debut it was hard to see why he started at 25/1. He’s a nice sort who will make up into a chaser sooner rather than later.
RED SPINNER put up a creditable effort in second on hurdling debut. Pressing the winner from three out, he lacked nothing in effort and was clear of a fair performer in third. A visit to the winner’s spot looks very likely in the near future.
TRADEWINDS was tapped for speed from three out. He has been beaten by a succession of decent hurdlers and his day will come.
MERCHANT OF DUBAI, second to a progressive type in handicap last time, probably ran to his 115 mark here. He had work to do at the weights with the third and the first two are likely to be at least high 120s performers.
THE COBBLER SWAYNE disputed second four out but faded form the final bend and nothing lese was in the contest over the last three hurdles.

2.25 2m BAM Construction St Andrew’s Day Handicap Chase (87-115)

UN ANJOU raced close up, led four out and looked a likely clear winner at the last. He was idling on the flat and almost caused close home by a rallying second but had enough in hand to hold on. His early career in France was spent running in deep ground, but he looks a better animal on decent ground.
CHESTNUT BEN ran without his declared tongue-tie after problem with the equipment in the preliminaries. He was outpaced early in the straight but rallied and was staying on when making a mistake at the last. He finished with a rattle, just too late to pass the winner.
WOT A SHOT, who has had plenty of chances over jumps to date, could never quite get to grips with the leaders down the straight despite keeping on to the finish.
WHY BUT WHY had every chance four out and wasn’t far away at the last, but the tank was empty and he faded on the run-in. He needs the ground and stays only the minimum trip.
TWEEDO PARADISO was made joint favourite though I don’t have an earthly as to why that was. He unseated here on his last run and never got seriously involved in the contest on this his second outing over fences.
SADDLERS DEAL was beaten from three out.
REGAL D’ESTRUVAL has been well beaten in most of his chasing efforts. He led until five out but dropped away once turned for home.
BALLYCOOL and YOURHOLIDAYISOVER both jumped stratchily in rear and never got in a blow.

2.55 2m Be One Step Ahead Handicap Hurdle (66-99)

ENDEAVOR showed admirable resolution to take this. It was a contest where many had questions marks but the winner has been giving his running consistently of late and battled well to hold two serious challengers. He has 12 wins form 77 efforts which is creditable from one operating at this level.
CLAUDE CARTER wasn’t disgraced on follow up to his win here. He stayed on and was closing at the line.
DALSTONTOSILOTH looked to be going best of any approaching three out but didn’t find enough when asked. His jockey wasn’t very complimentary about this one’s attitude afterwards and you get the feeling he has more ability than he cares to let on. Not one to risk the mortgage money on.
PEGASUS WALK stayed on when the contest was over, but performed adequately on handicap debut.
VAN MILDERT was thereabouts for much of the way before fading from two out. Not a bad effort from out of the handicap but he will need a very weak race if he is to score.

3.25 2m Belmont Wallyford Maiden Open NH Flat (Class 6)

A few here that might make up into jumpers in time.

IM TOO GENEROUS built on a promising second to take this very comfortably. They went no pace early on and Stuart Crawford’s charge came clear under Crawford frere Steven once asked for an effort. He was second in a Bartlemy maiden point, and the other one from that contest to have come out under Rules won at Chepstow, so he’s likely to have a future over obstacles.
There is definitely a bit to work on with LEADING SCORE who battled on for second. He will step up on this in time.
CHAIN OF BEACONS looks a chasing type, so a staying on third place augurs well for the future. This was a satisfactory debut for Sandy Thomson.
MASIRANN didn’t look suited by the four furlong sprint that this turned into. He was under the pump much of the way up the straight, but did stick to his job and was never completely seen off.
ATTENTION PLEASE was well beaten back in last but I wouldn’t worry too much at this stage. He looks a jumping type who should develop with time and was rather green in the preliminaries. He’s a half-brother to a decent sort in Court In Session.

[robnorth]

One meeting left in Scotland for 2014 and it’s a good chance to look for a few pointers going forward.

Sandy Thomson has strengthened his string significantly in recent times, his flag bearer being last season’s Graded novice hurdle winner Seeyouatmidnight. A less exposed type who has made a pleasing mark in recent weeks is FLY VINNIE. Having run third of three finishers in a staying novice at Musselburgh he has run creditably twice there over a shorter trip, firstly being the fancy priced winner of a decent looking middle distance maiden hurdle and then when by no means disgraced when fifth in a competitive handicap. That was decent effort for a novice and he can improve again if stepping back up to three miles.

Thomson’s PRAIRIE LAD took a time to get the hang of the game, but created a favourable impression when upped to an extreme hurdles trip (3m 3f) at Kelso. Admittedly the company wasn’t great, and Snuker seemed to suffering from his Hexham exertions, but the winner did it well enough and is clearly an out-and-out stayer. I suspect he will make up into a chaser and, though he may not reach huge heights, he should pay his way in fair to middling staying company.

DOKTOR GLAZ is a big and rather raw type from Rose Dobbin’s yard who has not been disgraced in novice hurdle company. He looks a type who will strengthen with time and we may not necessarily see the best of him this term, but keep an eye on his progress.

James Ewart introduced LEADING SCORE in the bumper at Musselburgh’s St Andrews Day meeting. There looked to be a bit to work on the gelding was a bit green in the race, but kept on pleasingly after an impressive winner in I’m Too Generous. The race will help for the second and he looks the type to pick up a bumper before going over hurdles.

Now with Harriet Bethell, IMPERIAL VIC looked significantly in need of the race on his seasonal debut at Kelso. I was so used to seeing this one stripped fit on seasonal debut when with Michael Smith and not surprisingly he found the race a bit tough in the latter stages. He was held up here but is normally an amenable front or prominent runner and will surely make impact off 119 when fully fit.

SIR VINSKI ran a bit below par on his hurdling debut at Newcastle, but he looked decent when winning his bumper at Kelso. His win was on good ground and it may be that the soft ground at Newcastle was against him. I believe he can step up markedly before long.

[robnorth]

MUSSELBURGH – 1st January 2015

Going – Good to soft, turning Soft (rain throughout)

Musselburgh rang in 2015 at their ever popular New Year’s Day meeting, a crowd of 4,250 attending to watch a competitive card supported by the New Year Sprint for the human athletes. This despite a windy and rainy day which caused the ground to soften during the afternoon.

12:25 2m toteplacepot First Foot Juvenile hurdle (Class 3)

The current crop of northern juvenile hurdlers hasn’t set the world alight, a fact spotted by Charlie Mann who sent an interesting newcomer up from Lambourn to bag a decent prize.
Having recorded a fair record in middling staying events in France for Jonathan Pease, SUPERB STORY was bought for €80,000. Looking plenty fit enough on hurdling debut, he travelled comfortably throughout here, leading three out and clear by the time he reached the last flight. Given that second and fourth have handicaps marks which they seemed to run to, then the winner would be worth at least mid-120s and probably a fair bit more to come given the experience.
EL BEAU ran a sound enough race under a double penalty, sticking to his job once passed by the winner, and just seemed to run into a very capable newcomer.
SILVER DUKE never got to the leaders, but put in encouraging work in the closing stages and snatched third place close home.
COOKING FAT is a robust sort who will probably develop with time and, even at this stage, has the look of a chaser.
The others were well beaten off, ADRAKHAN never seriously getting into the race. He looks the part but his form to date is no more than moderate and handicapping is likely to present best opportunities.

1:00 2m 4f Happy New Year From totepool Handicap Hurdle(94-119)

A competitive event contested mainly by relatively lightly raced animals, with the least raced coming out victorious. Top Scottish trainer Lucinda Russell wasted little time in notching her first winner of the year, UISGE BEATHA leading two out and going clear in impressive fashion. He will be up a grade after a handicap rise.
ALWAYS TIPSY continues to please in defeat, keeping on without threatening the winner. There’s a similar race to be found if he avoids anything seriously progressive.
GOLD CHAIN has been on the go for a while now and is well exposed but ran her in just being pipped by the second. She was held up and never near the winner, doing her best running in the latter stages.
CENTRAL FLAME was a keen sort in his early days and is generally held up. Cathy Walton kept this one a fair way off the pace before allowing him to pick up down the far side. He kept on for a never nearer fourth place, a stiffer track or another step up in trip would seem likely to help.
ALL THE ACES raced prominently but had nothing left once challenged two out. This was his best effort over hurdles for some time.
MWANGAZA got into a decent position three out, but belted that hurdle and his effort petered out soon after.
WYFIELD ROSE doesn’t strike me as totally committed to the game and proved to be a right madam on this occasion. She dug her hoofs in and refused to take any part, though considerate enough to signal this early enough to allow her backers a refund.

1:35 2m 4f totequadpot Scottish Premier Handicap Chase (115-135)

Lucinda Russell grabbed a one-two with REAPING THE REWARD swooping to mug his stablemate Quito Du Tresor right on the line. His jumping has been a bit hit or miss of late, but he was given a cracking quiet ride by talented conditional Craig Nichol, making a sustained run from three out. For all that he is now 11 years old, Reaping the Reward has few miles on the clock and might be capable of going forward from here.
QUITO DU TRESOR is more battle hardened than his stablemate, but proved that he has returned to form with an excellent effort in ground that would be softer than ideal for him. Going on three out, he looked the likely winner until right on the line. He can pick up a 0-120 or 0-125 event in the coming weeks if the ground doesn’t go against him.
Completing an 11 year olds 1-2-3, SHADRACK set the pace until three out, seeing out his race once passed. He is consistent and in good heart.
TIPTOEAWAY has had a few problems which have limited his racetrack appearances in recent times. While never far away he always seemed just held from three out. This was his best effort since a couple of two mile wins in the spring of 2012.
WORKBENCH had his chance but was held from two out. His wins have come on good ground so the rain won’t have helped.
VIVA COLONIA was well touted here, had every chance turning for home but faded from that point. Twice a winner over this course and distance for connections who would presumably be disappointed that this race didn’t signal a revival in fortunes.
WHY BUT WHY moved up to chase the leaders on the home bend but that was as close as he got. This ground was too soft and a drop down a grade would do no harm.
SWING HARD seemed to race a tad freely in behind the leaders and weakened quickly from the twelfth fence.
WITNESS IN COURT fell at the second.

2:10 2m totepool Hogmaneigh Handicap Hurdle

We should have seen the New Year Sprint Final run before this but the starter for that event went AWOL. I chatted to Sprint commentator Lee McKenzie after the event and he said that the quick decision to run the handicap hurdle first caused some complications in the commentary box, one pair of headphones being shared between Lee and horse racing commentator Gareth Topham. A quick swap, more or less seamless to those of use listening, and Gareth was able to take over.

The feature event, one of Musselburgh best of the season, saw a competitive field take part. A Grade 1 Finale Hurdle winner as a four-year-old, RUACANA is a decent enough performer in top level handicap hurdles without previously landing one. Never far off the pace, he came to lead two out and showed plenty of determination to hold off a persistent challenge from the runner-up. A decent effort and the obvious next target would be the Scottish County Hurdle here in early February.
STRONGPOINT generally performs well here, having boasted a 3 out of 6 record at Musselburgh with wins from 3m 110yds down to this 2 mile contest last year. He settles nicely in front and made this a searching test, showing typical tenacity when passed in the straight and making the winner pull out the stops. I presume his trainer would like to have a go at the Cheltenham County Hurdle, but don’t count him out in the Scottish equivalent come February.
HAWK HIGH was well spoken of in the preliminaries and was the class act here, coming off the back of not being discredited when last of five behind The New One at Haydock in conditions that would not have been ideal. He’s at his best on a sound surface and was held from the last here, but he’s certainly worth bearing in mind why the ground dries a bit.
MEADOWCROFT BOY was running for only the sixth time and was not disgraced in fourth, though giving way from before the last. He’s on a workable mark and Alistair Whillans should find an opportunity.
THORPE found this much tougher than the novice contest he won at Haydock, a race which does not rated as the strongest Listed event. He had his chance but was good enough from three out, though I wouldn’t be surprised if he can get competitive at this level with experience.
LIGHTENING ROD and FISHER, essentially progressive going into this, were both out the back all the way and never got into the contest. I would expect them to produce better in future.
I backed the winner here amongst my three against the field, but it could have been so much better as I secured 23 the evening before the race on Betfair about the 15/2 SP second. So near yet so far!

2:09 (and a few minutes) New Year Sprint Final (Handicap) 110yds

Starter traced and ready, the sprint final took place some time after the feature race. The handicapper once an excellent job with very little to choose between the first four.
CAMERON TINDLE was impressive in his Cross-tie (Semi-Final), winning with a fair bit to spare having been well touted pre-event along with last year’s winner Dylan Ali, though the latter didn’t make the final this time. However, the Edinburgh AC youngster was pushed to the limit in the final, hitting the front a stride from the line to win the £4,000 prize. He recorded a time of 11.21 for 100m last year and has time to develop given that he is only sixteen years old. With the right encouragement he may go some way to making up for the lack of Scottish sprinters in the Commonwealth Games, a state that Sandy Sutherland lamented in the raceday programme.
Ryan Houten lunged for the line to get closest to the winner. He’s another 16-year-old, though favoured by the handicap here and a bit behind Tindle in terms of official performances.
The girls are still awaiting their first win though they filled third and fourth places with Jazmine Tomlinson, the third, another youngster who is showing promise. The more experienced Stacey Downie, impressive in her cross-tie, ran creditably in fourth place.

Although it was a tight contest Lee McKenzie used his commentator’s eye to make a confident call that Cameron Tindle had won, and to my eye Lee was spot on. The call called caused some commotion amongst the officials who wanted to look at the photo, but Lee was spot on as Tindle prevailed by 0.03 seconds (short head maybe?).
This event was a good chance for an annual catch up with Lee who has been the commentator for the event in recent times. Having given up regular racecourse commentating to work on the 2012 Olympic Games and more recently the Sochi Winter Games, he now does a fair bit of raceday presenting at various venues, principally Windsor, Goodwood and Fontwell, appearing at various other locations including locally Hamilton Park. I understand from Lee that among his commitments he has dates lined up at Musselburgh and Hamilton in 2015.

2:45 3m totepool Supporting Scottish Racing Handicap Chase (87-110)

PURCELL’S BRIDGE is a consistent sort and won this with a good deal to spare. He was always going well in touch with the leaders and led three out, easing clear and winning with little fuss.
BERTIE MILAN performed better than of late. Raced up with the pace, he was headed three out but plugged on to take second. He is suited by a real stamina test and this was a creditable effort.
WAKHAN has flattered on a number of occasions, hinting that this sort of trip would suit, but he made no impression from before four out.
JUST AWAKE disputed the lead until giving way early in the straight, while DRUMLISTER was out the back most of the way and could do no more than make a little progress before four out without ever threatening.
OR DE GRUGY needed the urn and was beaten five out.
RYTON RUNNER disappointed once again and pulled up.
BLAZIN WHITE FACE broke a blood vessel and the pattern of her form hints that this isn’t first time it has happened.

3:20 3m 110yds Collect totepool Winnings at Betfred Shops Handicap Hurdle

FLY VINNIE looked a decent proposition against exposed opponents on the basis of a promising handicap debut last time and being upped in trip. He travels nicely in front, dictated the pace and then motored clear from three out to record a performance which seemed to border on 140 class. Sandy Thomson will be looking to set his sights higher with this one and don’t be surprised if a visit to Cheltenham or Aintree appears on the schedule.
The others had a private race for second, HARTFORTH keeping on well enough having looked to be in trouble before three out.
SOLWAY SAM is an out and out stayer and plugged on into third.
RATTLIN for whom the conditions would be no excuse gave way from three out, while CAPELLANUS and ARCTIC COURT were beaten before the turn for home.

[robnorth]

Apologies for not updating recently. A family bereavement meant we had other things on our minds and, as I write manuals for a living, sometimes I need a break!

KELSO – Thursday February 12th

Going – Good to Soft

A decent crowd attended one of Kelso’s best meetings of the season and the Kelso leg of the ‘AP McCoy Farewell Tour’.

The going estimate of good to soft seemed spot on to my judgement as I walked the chase course before the meeting. I reckon 18 minutes for an undulating 1m 3f isn’t bad for unfit and mid-50s, though I definitely needed the outing and should come on a bit for it!

2.00 2m ½f Kelso Annual Members Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)

This may prove to be a pretty decent novice hurdle. The penalised second is a decent marker and likely ran near to his best. The winner ENDLESS CREDIT was a bit novice in his jumping at times, but had the race under control from two out. He wasn’t a bad performer on the flat and he can progress from a performance here which would rate low 120s at worst.
THORPE has had a tendency to find one or two too good under a penalty in these events. He ran a sound enough race.
IM TOO GENEROUS looked an awkward soul in the paddock, but was better behaved on course. He seemed to progress marginally on his debut Catterick form and kept on for third place.
HA’PENNY WOODS looks a chasing type and anything he does over hurdles would seem to be a bonus. On that basis a keeping on fourth place was very promising and he’s one to make a note of for the future.
JACK STEEL was under the shove from a long way out, but kept at it to finish fifth. AP commented post-race that ‘he was keen early on and needs a trip’ so he can move forward from this.
FREDERIC was disappointing, running prominently but fading in the straight.
DUTCH CANYON was making some progress when unseating three out.
Jimmy Moffatt reported that the well beaten TOKYO BROWN bled from the nose.

2.30 2m 7½f Monteith Memorial Handicap Chase (105-130)

A competitive contest and three were in a line fifty yards from the post.

WILLIAM MONEY has presumably been difficult to train since winning over fences at Carlisle in 2013. He raced in rear for much of the race, and didn’t seem to be going anywhere much on the home turn, but he picked up well up the Kelso slope and stuck his head in front close home. The impression is that there may have been a little more in the tank and he could win again.
VELATOR was up with the pace, got outpaced to two out but then battled back to have very chance on the flat. He does have to caught on a going day.
WHATS UP WOODY ran an admirable race, setting the pace and only getting worn down on the flat. He hasn’t won since November 2012, but isn’t doing much wrong this season.
BLUE KASCADE was outpaced four out and looked beaten but stayed on well up the hill though never quite getting to the first three.
EDMUND was outpaced after the home turn and there are probably better handicapped horses.
ISLA PEARL FISHER weakened from two out and came home in his own time. Peter Buchanan’s opinion was that the ground was a bit tacky for him and he ‘just needs the ground to come right’. He needs genuine good ground to produce his best.
THE LAST SAMURI came to challenge two out and looked the likely winner. He hit the fence and unshipped Jason Maguire who missed the remainder of his rides. His mount is inexperienced but is probably on a generous mark and worth another chance, particularly if facing fellow novices in a handicap.
BALLYBEN who took a heavy fall at Newcastle last time dropped away from four out and was pulled up before two out.

3.00 2m 2f Timeform Morebattle Hurdle (Class 2)

A decent event often used as a warm up for championship events later on.

The winner GLINGERBURN is a progressive novice and was impressive in seeing off last year’s Fred Winter winner. He is entered in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle but may find a few too good in that. The Kelso Premier Hurdle here at the end of the month over this distance would be a possible if he comes out of this OK, and I wonder if Nicky Richards might target Aintree or Ayr in April.
HAWK HIGH ran an honest race and found a progressive sort too good for him.
Keen going sort MEADOWCROFT BOY set a decent pace and kept on after being headed two out. He was held by better opponents at these weights and this was encouraging for when he returns to handicaps..
TANERKO EMERY faded from the home turn and doesn’t look as good as he was for David Pipe. A heavy fall over fences last term may have dented his confidence.
COOL BARANCA had a tough task at the weights and gave way from before three out.

3.30 3m 2f Ivan Straker Memorial Chase (Class 2)

HOLYWELL, re-fitted with blinkers, saw off inferior rivals comfortably in his warm up for a tilt at the Cheltenham gold Cup. His jumping was sticky at the slow early pace, but much better once McCoy upped the tempo in the last two miles. He stays well and isn’t without a chance at Cheltenham. FENTARA stuck to her task well to take second place. She’s been off her game a bit of late but this looked better.
DIOCLES jumped a bit big and, having looked the likely second he ran out of puff on the run-in.
ROSE OF THE MOON was the first to crack as they went away from the stands for the final time. He’s not running well enough to make a mark off 130 at the moment.

4.00 Kelso Annual Members Handicap Hurdle (105-125)

Most of these were well exposed but the race was won by the one progressive animal. Lightly raced WARRIOR’S TALE eased up to the leaders three out and was in no trouble once leading two out. He gave the impression that a mark of 110 seriously under-rates his ability.
TANTAMOUNT was held up in rear and made eye-catching progress down the far side. He seemed likely to challenge the winner two out but could make no impression despite seeing out his race honestly. He was tired afterwards and connections felt that the race was needed after a break. On that basis this was a decent effort and there should be more to come this spring.
DUN TO PERFECTION raced close up and led three out but gave way from two out. A decent effort off a break and he remains competitive off this mark since the remainder were strung out around the Borders countryside.
ROCK RELIEF laboured into a well beaten fourth having been off the bridle for much of the way. He seemed a keen sort in the preliminaries but is hard work in the race.
GOLD CHAIN hasn’t looked keen on occasions and jacked it in going away from the stands for the last time.

4.30 2m 7½f Linglie Open Hunters’ Chase (Class 6)

There’s nothing progressive or exciting as yet from local hunters and the finish here was fought out by three campaigners who have been around the block.

DOUGLAS JULIAN was in the process of running a decent race when coming down here last time. He raced prominently and showed plenty of resolution to hold off two challengers. He’s in good heart and may squeak another win on the Scottish or Northern England circuit.
RAILWAY DILLON didn’t exactly strike me as the ideal sort to be ridden by a relatively inexperienced rider. However, Emma Todd clearly knows what she is doing and got a good tune out this enigmatic staying chaser, bringing him into the race from three out and he stayed on to the line. On a going day he has ability to win a similar race and a stiffer test would help.
MONOGRAM is another who wouldn’t be the most reliable, but Kit Alexander coaxed a decent charge out of him from two out. He briefly threatened at the last, but hung towards the stands rail and couldn’t get to the winner.
HIDDEN FUTURE got to the front four out but was held before the last and weakened on the flat. His best chances may be in minor points.
SIR DU BEARN dropped away approaching four out but it turned out he finished lame behind. Assuming the injury is not too bad he can prove he is capable at this level.
WAR ON raced prominently early but felt the pinch from before four out. Simply case of being up against better opponents.
BARACHOIS SILVER didn’t look particularly keen with a circuit to go and finished well beaten.
BAYFIRTH raced prominently for a way but was struggling with four to go and was pulled up alongside former Willie Mullins trained SOME TARGET two out, the latter looking to be a back number now.

AYR 10th Feb and MUSSELBURGH 11th Feb

WE had a burst of three meetings in three days. I haven’t had a chance to look in depth at the Ayr and Musselburgh meetings but there are some useful pointers.

GILNOCKIE ran into a decent improver in One for Arthur but ran a creditable second in the three mile novices handicap hurdle at Ayr. He was hampered by a faller and would have been a bit closer, but he’s up at the sort of trip he needs and should find a staying hurdle before long.
YES TOM was ridden prominently by AP in a way that suits him and won well. He will go up a bit for this, but he seems to sulk if things don’t go his way so can pop up out of the blue, being particularly favoured by a smallish field.
BENNY’S SECRET ran sixth in the bumper that closed the Ayr card. He is well regarded at Kinneston and didn’t look at all suited by the sprint that this race turned into. He did however keep on to the line and will leave the form well behind in time.

Difficult to find too much to take forward from a low key card at Mussleburgh. However, the previously mentioned Emma Todd showed up well to pick up a second Rules win on DROM who just held off previous winner Nowurhurlin. Good pace judgement from Miss Todd and there might well be value in keeping an eye on anything she rides in future, particularly outside the Drury yard.

The bumper only had five runners but it looked a decent contest. The winner GINGILI has looked decent previously and is worth noting for hurdling in future.
The second IS IT I is trained by that equine magician Don Cantillon. Anything this man runs is worth a second glance and I am sure it well within his powers to find a race or two for this one.
CROCKETT rattled home in the manner of one who would appreciate a stiffer test. He won at Wetherby and then ran third to another decent looking McCain animal DUKE ARCADIA at Ayr 24 hours previously. Noel Wilson can find races going forward with the four-year-old Crockett.

*** Look out for LIE FORRIT in today’s Grand National Trial. He won well at Kelso back in January in a Veterans Chase, had plenty in hand that day and is in as good nick as he ever has been. His end of season target remains the Scottish National.

SEEYOUATMIDNIGHT has had minor setbacks but I understand that he is in decent nick and today’s Rendlesham Hurdle has been the principal target for his return for a while. I am on at 85 for the World Hurdle, and for that to be a goer I would want to see him put away his Haydock opponents in an event he won last year.

[robnorth]

SEEYOUATMIDNIGHT put up a satisfactory performance in the Rendlesham, staying on well enough but not able to peg back the progressive winner Closing Ceremony. The race should do Sandy Thomsopn’s stable start some good and I don’t think he will be far away in the World Hurdle.

LIE FORRIT just held off the challenge of Thomson’s HARRY THE VIKING in The Grand National, a result which says a lot for the quality of the last month’s Veterans’ chase at Kelso. Lie Forrit now goes for the Scottish National while Thomson hopes that the handicapper bumps Harry The Viking up enough to get into the Scottish National. I wonder if a better target might be the Midlands National or the Irish National both events in which Harry The Viking would be likely to get a run.

CLONDAW KNIGHT ran a decent race in the Listed Hamilton Chase at Ascot, jumping well enough but possibly being outstayed by teh strong favourite Carole’s Destrier. I wonder if 2m 4f to 2m 6f might be the best trip for Clondaw Knight and his sound jumping is a definite asset.

[Venture to Cognac]

More than happy with Seeyouatmidnight Rob, especially after that long break.

I bet Lie Forrit last week, and was hoarse after that race. Next time I’m up at the stables, I’ll be armed with polo’s and carrots for him, I owe him that much.

Clondaw Knight looks more reliable this year, and if he went to Cheltenham or Aintree, he’ll definitely be getting a second look.

[robnorth]

I bet Lie Forrit last week, and was hoarse after that race. Next time I’m up at the stables, I’ll be armed with polo’s and carrots for him, I owe him that much.

A minute or two chatting to the trainer as everyone else went up to gallops was well worth it!

[robnorth]

Not at all enamoured with this new set up, but managed to navigate to North’s notes eventually…

The Grade 2 Premier Hurdle may turn out to a decent event. As I suspected it looks as if GLINGERBURN is going Kelso and then either Aintree or Ayr.

[robnorth]

KELSO – Saturday February 28th

Going – Good to Soft

A chilly day to see out February but some decent racing for Kelso’s valuable card, with rain threatening for much of the afternoon before setting in come five o’clock. I walked the course before racing and my estimate was it was good to soft, tending toward soft in places, so I don’t think it would have favoured good ground performers.

1:55 2m ½f Terry Frame Joiners Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)

A wide spread of ability in this contest with the two class animals dominating, though a promising run from a newcomer in 3rd place.
BALLYBOLEY came to this off the back of running down the pack in the Betfair Hurdle. Much more at home in this company, he raced prominently, took it up two out and didn’t have too many problems after that. If he is aimed at valuable contests this spring I would imagine they will be novice handicaps.
GO CONQUER couldn’t match the winner from two out but ran up to previous form and should gain consolation.
Much promise back in third from the Sandy Thomson mare BEECHROAD ALLY who made steady progress from midfield in the last half mile and saw her race out well enough. Apparently she had shown very little at home, but the Thomson stable had her nicely fit for this one and will be most encouraged. She’s worth a try in mares only company as this effort is plenty good enough to win such races in Scotland and the north.
SPINNING AWAY kept on for fourth albeit well held, but is hinting at ability and might turn into a winning racehorse given time.
TOMAHAWK WOOD has not gone the right way since a promising jumps debut. He was well beaten here and gave the impression in the paddock of being rather headstrong.
DIAMOND FIZZ was in the process of running into a likely third place when going seriously wrong behind before two out. Sadly he couldn’t be saved.

2:25 2m 1f Cyril Alexander Memorial Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase

A decent looking renewal of this contest.

VENGEUR DE GUYE came there swinging two out and came clear of a decent measure in Aye Well. The winner is likely to go on from this decent effort.
AYE WELL tried to match the winner but has nothing remaining in the locker when challenged before the last. A sound enough effort though and he remains in good form.
FORWARD FLIGHT was outpaced down the far side but kept on up the hill to take third place. He won a hurdle in testing conditions over 2m 4f last season and a step up in distance appears called for.
CANGO tried to make all and jumped nicely in front. He gave way before the last and weakened, but I suspect this was a better effort than a bare fourth of four finishers suggests. A bit more cut in the ground would probably help.
DANEHILLS WELL was never going and had a tough task on chase debut. He was struggling by halfway and pulled up in the latter stages.
KITCHAPOLY was disappointing and stopped very quickly before four out. The vet found no abnormalities post-race.

3:00 2m 2f totescoop6 Premier Kelso Hurdle (Grade 2 Novices’ Hurdle)

Kelso’s top event of the season and one that regularly throws up a decent performer. It would have been nice if Channel 4 could have made the effort, though credit to Racing UK who had ‘Broonie’ reporting live from the track.

GLINGERBURN was second to last year’s Clever Cookie on his racecourse debut at Musselburgh in autumn 2012. Turns out he was beaten by a distinctly useful animal that day and Glingerburn has gone from strength to strength this season. He came to challenge going really well and, though briefly hanging and crossing the second, came clear in impressive style. I understand the plan is likely to be either Aintree or Ayr now and it will take a decent animal to lower this one’s colours.
BRISTOL DE MAI ran a sound race but was outpointed by a superior opponent. Probably better suited by a bit more cut in the ground, he holds an entry for the Triumph Hurdle.
INTENSE TANGO was outpaced before the last, though probably ran up to his level of 140. A bit short of the top level of juvenile a decent juvenile or novice handicap might be a target.
SHADES OF MIDNIGHT had a large collection of followers dressed in yellow and blue scarves. Their charge was not totally disgraced in fourth though outpaced in the home straight. He won well here in more lowly company last time and will find much easier contests.
MEDICINE HAT ensured a decent pace was set but was put in his place in the last half mile.
EXCLUSIVE WATERS and NASHVILLE were dropped in the deep end and duly floundered, though the latter did at least pick up some pocket money for completing.

3:35 2m 5½f 84-110 Premier Traffic Management Handicap Chase (for Hamilton Memorial Trophy)

A competitive event for its level. I watched this from down by the last fence which gives a nice view for judging jumping and the progress horses are making.

DOUGLAS JULIAN has never been the most consistent sort, but won nicely in hunter company here last time and put in a fine round of jumping to beat handicappers on this occasion. Trained by Katie Scott, at 27 the youngest trainer in Scotland, Douglas Julian took up the lead and consistently out jumped the opposition. His trainer has him in good heart at the advanced age of 13 and he is now aimed at the Aintree Foxhunters’ Chase.
WHAT A DREAM has slipped down the handicap but is capable on his day. He raced up with the pace and had every chance but was outpaced in the closing stages.
ROMANY RYME was in rear at halfway but kept on for pressure from two out. His jumping isn’t as accurate as some.
MONOGRAM was beaten by Douglas Julian last time, not looking straightforward when the chips were down. He was held from two out having been on the premises for most of the way.
SADDLE PACK is often held up in rear. He made moderate progress from three out but was never near the leaders.
OSCAR LATEEN was well backed off the back of a promising effort in December. He was in touch until weakening before two out. And this looked a step backward.
AMETHYST ROSE was close enough if good enough most of the way but found wanting from three out.
KAI BROON never got involved and was well behind in the last half mile.
LORD REDSGIRTH has been uninspiring in recent outings and made no impact here before being pulled up.
BESCOT SPRINGS was very disappointing and not on a going day, similar to OR DE GRUGY who was being ridden along after a circuit.
RED TANBER is a light of his 2012 self and was beaten four out and soon pulled up.

4:10 2m 7½f totepool Premier Chase (Listed)

A field of a quality that justified the Listed tag and we had the unusual occurrence of all six runners being trained by female trainers. The race has yielded the Grand National winner in two out of the last four years and Carlito Brigante looks best of the two Aintree entries.

RUNSWICK ROYAL was being tested over a new trip but saw the distance out in impressive style, leading at the last and staying on well for victory. I would presume he will be aimed at either Aintree or Ayr.
UPSILON BLEU, a winner at Auteuil and Wetherby of late and not totally disgraced in top company at Newbury, jumped very well. He had every chance but was headed at the last and held though seeing his race out.
CARLITO BRIGANTE would not have been suited by the tacky ground, since he is definitely best. He didn’t threaten the leaders in the final half-mile but kept on to take third. He may not disgrace hims3elf at Aintree should the going come up good and the Scottish National would be a fall back option.
CLOUDY TOO looked well enough after a break and theoretically but a 10lbconcession to some decent animals made a difference. He was outpaced from two out and not dangerous from that point.
Dianne Sayer is now forced to fly quite high with BAILEYS COINCERTO after a rattling good 2014. He raced keenly in rear and was held from four out.
SAPHIR RIVER was on and off the bridle and struggling when coming down four out. He was returned to the stables in the horse ambulance but sadly had suffered a broken shoulder and was put down. He was a decent performer on his day and capable at this level, but plagued with bad feet and thath probably kerbed his career achievements.

4:45 Andersons Award Winning Butchers North Berwick Handicap Hurdle (84-110)

A big field full of exposed performers.

LUCEMATIC was brought back fresh off a 21 month absence. He made headway going out on to the final circuit, joined issue two out and looked a likely comfortable winner only to hang on desperately as the second renewed his challenge. He has only run 10 times and has three wins to show for his efforts. If he can be kept fit there may still be some improvement to be eked.
The racecard summary wasn’t madly complimentary about OMID but on this occasion he rallied well having set the pace for a long way before being outpaced with half a mile to go. He has to be caught on th3 right day but has a respectable record over jumps and will continue to be competitive in similar events.
BALLYVOQUE ran well enough in third but was put in his place approaching the last flight.
CONJOLA has fewer miles on the clock than some. He had every chance two out but was held up the final climb. He has decent form with a bit more cut in the ground.
GOLANS CHOICE ran respectably in fifth if held from before the last. His connections will be hoping for a little respite from the handicapper.
Pint sized Alison Waugh is often seen leading round the stable charges, but was aboard NEWYEARSRESOLUTION on this occasion. He was finding the task of running from 9lbs wrong a bit beyond him when coming down three out.
DUN TO PERFECTION, decent at this level on his day, ran no sort of race this time. He lost a shoe and finished distressed, so presuming he gets over whatever was ailing him he can be forgiven this race.

5.20 3m 2f Newcastle Arms Coldstream Open Hunters’ Chase (Class 6)

Two serious competitors were followed home by three point-to-pointers from the same stable.

MAJOR MALARKEY has been a decent stayer, 11th in Aurora’s Encore’s National, and clearly retains enough ability for this level. He made all jumping well and had the race comfortably won by two out.
RAILWAY DILLON had to be on top of his game and was being pushed along to cover the winner by the twelfth fence. His chance had gone barring accidents by the home turn.
A Victor Thompson trained trio filled the next three places, SENOR ALCO staying on from well back a mile out to take third place. TOMMYSTEEL was arguably third best on the day since he did at least take on the first two until feeling the pinch before four out. WAR ON never got competitive.
BAYFIRTH isn’t good enough at this level and was well behind on the final circuit before being pulled up approaching two out.

[robnorth]

AYR – Friday April 17th

Some very competitive racing at Ayr for the first day of the Scottish National meeting.

PRESENTING JUNIOR was given a decent race by our now retired Outlaw Tom back in October and has gone fom strength to strength since. He was very convincing in the Listed 2m 4f Hill House Quarry Handicap Chase. He will win more races, even going up in the ratings and should still be on a workable mark for 2m 4f to 3m 2f handicap chases in the autumn.

DIFFERENT GRAVEY was impressive in the opening novices’ hurdle. He looks a chaser and will be very interesting if going over the larger obstacles sooner rather than later. Henderson horses though do tend to race at cramped odds.

ARISTO DU PLESSIS continues to progress and won well in the two mile handicap hurdle second on the card. He’s progressive and can move on from this win.I wonder if the Swinton Hurdle might cross James Ewart’s mind?

I can’t get to Perth this week unfortunately as we are well loaded at work. I will put some notes on the meeting to capture any pointers going forward in the passing and summer. I will be paying a first ever visit to a point-to-point at Balcormo Mains next Saturday, so will post a report after that.

THE VILLAGE was last of six at Carlisle on chasing debut, but it was a tough introduction for him and he wasn’t disgraced and jumped well enough for first time chasing. He is aimed at a novice handicap chase at Perth in May which will be more his level.

Rob

[robnorth]

A horse I promised to keep quiet about finally won his race.

Lucinda Russell told me to keep the promise of DE BEE KEEPER under my hat a couple of seasons back as ‘the owner likes a bet’ The owner never did land his bet, but the horse moved on from the Russell stable and broke his maiden in the Morpeth Hunt PPORA Members Race at Tranwell last week.

Rob

[robnorth]

BALCORMO MAINS – Saturday April 25th
Going – Good

It’s taken me too long to finally get to the point-to-point meeting, but it won’t be my last following a visit to the Fife Hunt meeting at the delightfully situated Balcormo circuit.

Credit to Robert Hogarth, oft heard at Musselburgh and Kelso who kept the racegoers well informed throughout the afternoon. The number board is clear and accurate, and viewing of the course is excellent from the spectator areas. Credit is also due to the army of volunteers in high-vis jackets who did their job well but with a light touch.

The afternoon opened with two pony races, 138cm and under over five furlongs and the 148cm and under over six furlongs. The opening event was won by Annie, ridden stylishly by Nick Barratt-Atkin who took the chance to pose to the crowd in the closing stages. The six furlongs event was won by Pick Pocket ridden by 15-year-old Connor Murtagh, the latter looking all over a jockey and I would imagine likely to graduate to Rules racing in the next year or two.

All the point-to-point races took place over 3 miles and 19 fences, which equates to 2 and a half circuits and includes two open ditches.

2.00 Turcan Connell Fife Hunt Members, Subscribers and Farmers
Only three turned out for this one, as the Alexanders gave the contest a miss, though I presume they have at least a passing interest in the winner.
MILANO MAGIC was reasonable under Rules and proved clear best of the three here. Nick Orpwood sent Gemma Cochrane’s charge on from two out and he was in little danger from that point.
SIR WATTY, recently moved from the South West England circuit, raced keenly and jumped slowly and deliberately in front. Overtaken two out he plugged on and was booked for second when his other rival departed at the last.
The only way MOMKINZAIN will stay three miles is at a crawl or in a horsebox. He raced well enough for a long way, but was out on his feet when thumping the last and unseating. My wife was watching near the last and was not impressed by Harry Reed’s flailing of the whip before the last.

2.30 Subaru Restricted
More Ps than Bird’s Eye amongst the form of many of these. On the other hand, one who has been in the mix in races consistently is NELLY LA RUE who travelled nicely for Tom Hamilton, stretched no at the fifteenth and came home well clear to follow up a Tranwell win. The step up to Open company will be a bit tougher but she could be competitive in the weaker events at that level.
COBH NATIONAL has been struggling since a win at Alnwick back in January. He made something of a return to form here and kept on for second without ever threatening the winner.
RUNNING BROOK led or disputed for much of the way, but had given all when hitting two out and finished tired in third.
THE TOFT might be a prospect in the long term but didn’t really fire on this occasion. Never in the contest, he was behind from three out.
CALL THE DOCTOR, a maiden winner at Hackwood last year, hasn’t shown anything for his current stable and veered off the course at the bend after the fourth.
FLYING MASTER well beaten by the winner at Tranwell, was behind when pulled up at the fifteenth and would have been better off in the Maiden.
FLYING NATIVE was getting reminders at halfway and pulled up before the sixteenth.

3.00 Albert Bartlett Ladies Open
Only two pitched up out of an entry of five for this contest. The winner beat only two at Tranwell last time, so maybe it’s just the case there aren’t many to contest these races.
Amy Waugh is little more than four feet tall, but what she lacks in height she makes up for in ability. She presents her horse at a fence in fine style and dictated this from the start. Although the second closed from three out WHITEABBEY retained plenty enough to hold on with a little to spare.
DURBAN GOLD won a 3m 5f contest at Tranwell and is an out-and-out-stayer. She kept on but couldn’t close down the winner. She wouldn’t be a lost cause in long distance events under Rules.

3.30 Pentland Land Rover Mens Open
ROSSINI’S DANCER us decent at this level when he puts it all in and had conditions to suit here. It was by no means plain sailing but after racing prominently, Kit Alexander sent him on two out and he was driven out to hold on. Apt to disappoint on occasions, but there are more such cases to be won with this one.
SOME TARGET has been pretty decent, but isn’t as good as he was in Ireland. He disputed with the winner for much of the way and had every chance, but didn’t quite match the winner from the last. He needs a soft event or a long distance Open, or a combination of both(!), if he’s to score.
DUHALLOWCOUNTRY ran at least to his form level in third. He had every chance two out but gave way to better animals.
INDIAN PRINT was outpaced from four out and his Tranwell win was presumably in a weak event. He ran well in the Heart Of All England Chase last year, but general level of recent form is moderate.
RAIFTIERI won at Cartmel in August but that didn’t look a great event and he has struggled since. He was under the cosh with a circuit to go and was a remote last when pulled up before the last fence.

4.00 Lundin Links NPPA Club Members Race

The biggest entry of the meeting yielded the joint biggest field of seven.
The veteran BACK ON THE ROAD is a consistent sort and has a good attitude. The evergreen Jamie Alexander sent him third at the fifteenth and then into the lead three out. He had to dig deep to hold off a determined second from the last and held on by a short head.
GREAT GUSTO raced prominently, had every chance and gave it his best but was just held. He’s not quite up to Open standard, but these races offer his best chance as winners get a penalty.
SILK AND ROSES led for much of the way but is not quite at the level of the first two and was held from before two out.
HAVE ONE ON ME won a couple of minor events in 2014, but was put in his place from three out here.
OLDRIK was beaten a long way and is a non-stayer in points.
CILLISEAL lost his rider two out when well held. He was a slowish chaser under Rules and seems to have settled into life as an even slower pointer!
WEEUMA has struggled in recent times and had fallen well behind when pulled up with four to go.

4.30 Bruce Farms Open Maiden

The five runners brought forward a host of moderate form.
HAVANA JACK had hinted at ability if novice on previous runs. He was able to settle to his task in this moderate company. He disputed when blundering two out, but was left in front and dug deep to hold the second on the run to the line. He’s only five and should improve going forward.
SOUND BARRIER showed promise last time at Tranwell after a couple of pulled ups. Not rushed by Rachael MacDonald, he was produced to challenge the winner before the last and made that one pull out the stops. Some encouragement going forward.
LAY DE BROOK was handful in the paddock, keen on the track and novice in his jumping. Tired three out and behind, he offers little prospect of success even at this level.
POLL AN EASA disputed or led and held and advantage when blundering two out, at which point his rider either lost irons or reins and had to pull up. He looks to offer some hope and can probably pick up a weak maiden with better luck.
LUCYDOLI is a small mare who jumped slowly at many fences until unseating at the eleventh. She showed nothing in bumpers and hasn’t indicated that she is a racehorse so far. The course commentator often struggled with anything that stretched the basics and didn’t identify the missing competitor for a couple of fences.

Exit from the track was straight forward and it took us no more than 50 minutes to get back to Dunfermline. A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon and one I can recommend.

[robnorth]

KELSO – Wednesday May 6th

Going – Good To Soft

A bit of rain about, but generally not too bad a day for Kelso’ penultimate meeting of the spring campaign. The ground was a shade on the dead side but generally riding quite well.

1.50 2m 1f Black Bull Inn Wooler Novices’ Chase

I worked the morning and then drove down to Kelso for the afternoon. I had expected the runners to be in the paddock when I arrived at 1.35, but none to be seen. They really ought to on view earlier and I do feel that racecourses should be making sure runners are on view as early as possible.

A close battle between two quite evenly matched animals, the fitness of PAIR OF JACKS possibly just making the difference in the closing stages against KATACHENKO coming off a break. Assuming they remain near to current marks, the winner may go up a pound or two, then both can be competitive in handicaps. Jumping from both was sound enough and Pair Of Jacks in particular seems an amenable animal.
The ten-year-old SILK HALL jumped the early fences well but wasn’t so sharp once the tempo increased. He’s rated 130 at the moment for handicaps and he doesn’t look that good as a chaser.

NEVILLE WOODS had much to find with the others but jumped around safely for fourth. He will be better off in handicaps having been given tough tasks, with our own enigmatic character The Village (rated 66) not too far behind in his race at Carlisle.

2.20 2m 6½f Hunter Real Estate Investment Managers Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (81-107)

ISAACSTOWN LAD has never really stepped up to the mark after showing a little promise early in his career, though described to me as ‘a plank’ by a previous owner. Nicky Richards has obviously done a bit of streamlining to the piece of wood, since he travelled well, led two out and had the race in safe-keeping at the last. Taken at face value this race suggests more to come.
HURRICANE RITA moved to chase the winner from two out but couldn’t get close enough to challenge. This was only her fourth race and she appeared well suited by the step up in trip. Stuart Coltherd is shrewd enough to place her to win a staying novices’ event.
IORA GLAS chased the leader swinging for home but was found wanting from two out. He has to find extra off his current mark.
LORD USHER, stood down for what was deemed ‘an easy’ here over two miles last time, set sail for home after three out but found disappointingly little when challenged.
DUTCH CANYON struggled to get into the race on the final circuit. He looks a stayer without a deal of tactical pace.
SPOILS OF WAR led early jumping well and set a decent pace. His jumping went to pieces on the final circuit, but it turned out he had been seriously struck into and was pulled up. Lucinda Russell told me that things were touch and go for a while, but thankfully he has been treated and is now on the mend.

2.50 2m 7½f Anne MacDonald Birthday Bash Selling Handicap Chase (73-99)

For this type of contest it really wasn’t all the bad a race.

The in-form MY FRIEND GEORGE travelled well until briefly outpaced going to the open ditch two out. Driven back up to the leader he challenged at the last and gave generously when asked. He was rated 84 going into this, so will remain firmly below the top mark for the class, which has to be an advantage with an animal on good terms with the world.
Last year’s winner WINTER ALCHEMY looked likely to make it a double when taking up the running going well two out. To my eye he didn’t stop but just found the winner a little too good. Winter Alchemy has generally gone well in the warmer weather and is not a lost cause for upcoming engagements.
CHICAGO OUTFIT jumped really well in front but was held once passed two out. He hit the last when held and is difficult to win with.
BROKETHEGATE has had a few problems but wasn’t disgraced here and connections must take some encouragement. He was well there until weakening from two out.
PISTOL BASC runs a lot of passable race without visiting the winner’s place more than in his turn. He was under the pump four out and beaten by two out.
SADDLE PACK is normally held up and was never remotely competitive on this occasion. He has yet to prove he stays this trip under Rules.
WEST SHIP MASTER has run creditably over fences a few times but has yet to break his maiden. He weakened from three out on this occasion and was rather disappointing given recent efforts.
OXALIDO ran well at Perth but was never seriously in the contest here.
WAR ON is not good enough in hunters and struggled in this company.
ULTIEP pulled up having struggled from a mile out and of no account these days.

3.20 3m 2f Bedmax Handicap Chase (88-115)

WINGED CRUSADER’s form has been bitty, but he was impressive here, jumping really well and ridden clear from two out. A good spot by the Twiston-Davies yard to pick off this contest.
VIKING REBEL ran a creditable race insecond. He’s running well enough at this time, but time is not on his side at the age of 13. Not inconceivable that he could pick up a Class 4 or 5 event before retirement beckons.
REVOCATION ran a passable race in third if never looking the winner from three out. He’s lightly raced and will not always run into one such as this winner.
GIBBSTOWN was held from three out. She goes well at Hexham but I don’t think she qualifies for any staying chases at that course in the remaining meetings this spring.
STONEY has won a trio of points, but has been found wanting in this company since moving from Ireland.
ACTION MASTER was ridden as if needing kidded home. He made stealthy headway to be going as well as any on the home turn, but hit two out and quickly dropped out. There was no report of a physical problem and it looked to me as if he ‘jacked it in’.
RESOLUTE PERFORMER flattered down the far side for the last time but dropped away from four out. This was a step up in class on his previous wins and he was found wanting.
ROMANY RYME wasn’t totally disgraced when last of five finishers in the Highland National. That race may have left its mark as he made no show here.
FARMER MATT raced prominently early but struggled on the last circuit and was pulled up. He was coming back from a long break and the outing looked needed.
JEWELLERY struggled from halfway and pulled up before four out.

3.55 2m ½f Principal & Prosper Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (100-118)

TURTLE WATCH was well touted by a few reliable sources. He had been expected to do the business at Ayr but opinion was that he wasn’t given the best ride. On this occasion he travelled well throughout in the hands of Graham Watters, eased up to the leader going well two out and won with any amount in hand.
PETERS GREY showed promise here a couple of runs ago and was not disgraced in a better event at Ayr last time. He ran into one here and looks the right material to win a similar contest. He’s certainly one I would take out this meeting.
SURPRISE VENDOR is a fair measure in this sort of company and ran a sound enough race in third place.
CADORE disputed two out but weakened before the last.
SHANROE SOCIETY came here off a long break and was never put in a competitive position.
STENTORIAN challenged going very well two out, but was tiring when falling at the last flight.
KEALIGOLANE, returning after a long break, was revved up as ever and led but was spent by three out.

4.30 2m 5½f Berwick Speedway Novices’ Hunters’ Chase (Class 5)

This didn’t look an over strong contest.

CHANCEOFALIFETIME was presented with just that being rated significantly higher under Rules than his opponents. In the event he had to work at it, driven out from the last having travelled well enough.
MISTER D gave the race his best shot in second. He led from three out until the last and saw out the contest well enough. This appeared a step up on recent point and hunter efforts.
DARSI DANCER, pulled up in The Heart at Hexham, was comfortably put in his place from two out.
DURBAN GOLD was made joint favourite here. Given that he was down in distance after a second of a two at Balcormo when looking an out-and-out stayer, the reasoning of those backing him is obscure. He never went the pace and would have been suited by another lap.
The remainer pulled up with MR SHAHADY well outpaced on the final circuit, AFTERCLASS never travelling for Kit Alexander and HECKLEY HERBERT looking plain slow.

5.05 2m ½f Cheers Bar Standard Open NH Flat – Division 1 (Class 5)

A double dose of bumpers and plenty to take out from the two contests.

My paddock inspection suggested the Alan Swinbank trained newcomer MICKLEGATE RUN looked the one primed to win a flat race. His trainer apparently would have been pleased with ‘first four’ but rumour has it he’s a pessimist! In the event the winner led two out but then ran green and had to work hard to hold a fair opponent in second. A good start and there looks a bit more to come.
GULLY’S EDGE followed up a sound second last time with another decent effort. He kept the winner honest and a visit to the winner’s spot looks no more than delayed. One slight worry is that he races in a tongue-tie.
CATCHING SHADOWS was not disgraced in third under a double penalty. He was reported as hanging right down the straight.
One to note long term here is KALANITI. Travelling well enough most of the way, he hung left over one furlong out but stayed on steadily under gentle encouragement. He will make up into a jumper and I’d be surprised if he can’t win races.
As one who will turn into a stayer, BENNY’S SECRET was sent on by Lucy Alexander. He was outpaced by more speedy horses from two out, but once presented with a trip over hurdles he will be a better animal. He’s well regarded at Kinneston and worth placing on the list as a novice hurdler for 2015/16.
SEVEN DEVILS ran second to a bumper winner in his Irish point. He was held from two out but should do better in time.

5.40 2m ½f Cheers Bar Standard Open NH Flat – Division 2 (Class 5)

DANTE’S WAY is a nice sort who should make up into a jumper before long. It is pleasing that he showed enough pace to win this and he’s in the right hands going forward.
NUTS WELL progressed nicely from his Hexham debut. He led two out and, though given it his best, just had to give way in the final yards. A decent effort and his stable should place this half-brother to Runswick Royal to advantage in future.
DANMURPHYSDOOR probably needs obstacles in front of him to show his best, so a third here is a bonus. He raced prominently but was held in the final furlong.
LIMOS performed better than on his Hexham debut, if held from two out.
Jim Goldie’s THISULLDAEUS has plenty going for him on breeding but looks to need time and was well beaten after racing prominently early on.
A non-runner here was McGINTY’S DREAM, but note this one for the long term as he’s another animal well regarded by trainer Nick Alexander.

[robnorth]

KELSO – Sunday May 24th

Going – Good (Good to Firm in places)

A bright day for Ladies Day to finish the Kelso spring campaign, with a chilly stiff breeze blowing across the track with the going a tad on the fast side. Decent ground nevertheless though the bends had to sanded early on as they were just a little slippery.

Milnathort Racing Club’s The Village pitched up seeking to atone for misbehaviour at Perth when refusing to start.

2.10 2m ½f Lyntoun Taxis & Andersons Butchers East Lothian Novices’ Hurdle (Class 4)

He made little impact at Perth but RUNNING BROOK was presented looking a picture on this occasion and belied odds of 40/1. He raced handily, challenged two out and wore down the leader on the flat. A pleasing effort and this point winner should be capable of holding his own over the bigger obstacles.
ANGUS GLENS set the standard racing under a penalty and looked the likely winner approaching the last. He pecked and lost the initiative though keeping on to the line. There should be another event for him under a penalty before long.
ANOTHER BYGONES didn’t quite get to the front two but kept on for third place.
SO SATISFIED ran a satisfactory race, keeping on nicely to the line without being over punished. He has ability and chances will likely come once he has a handicap mark.
NABURN was left in the lead three out but held from two out. He would need a soft non-handicap but is another likely to show up well enough once handicapped.
SKY FULL OF STARS looks to need a bit of time. He was outpaced from two out.
VITAL EVIDENCE led until falling three out. He has ability but would be one of the lesser lights in the McCain set up.
PARKIE BOY is chasing type who will need time. He was well behind when unseating two out but should leave this from behind in time.

2.40 2m 7½f Elliot Henderson Novices’ Handicap Chase (79-105)

JACK ALBERT is a keen going front runner and was always in the lead or near it. He pushed on from four out and was clear two out. What you see is what you get with this one.
VISION DE LA VIE stayed on for second without threatening the winner. He has three years in hand on the winner and looks well capable of winning a chase or two.
KING OF THE DARK carried a bit of condition, but he ran recently so presumably it’s just how he looks. He challenged three out but was held from two out, just being denied second place. He’s unexposed and confirmed promise of his Sedgefield run.
EMKAE, a bit grinder who must wear his teeth down, was outpaced three out and then kept on again up the hill. A more forward from previous chasing efforts.
ACCORDINGSCRIPT led or disputed until falling away from four out. His jumping was not as flunet as that of the winner and it told in the last mile.
JUST AWAKE is capable at this level but has a tendency to miss out a fence or two. Ridden patiently, he looked to be going best of all when coming down four out.

3.10 2m 7½f Elliot Henderson Novices’ Handicap Chase (75-101)

This race was run over two seconds a mile quicker than part one as it showed with only two horses in contention two.

LEANNA BAN was considered gifted the race at Carlisle, but proved he’s at least that good and better. Front running, he burnt off all the bar the second turning for home and went clear after his challenger hit two out. He was impressive, looks better than this class and his trainer will presumably try to strike while the iron is hot.
BROTHER SCOTT got close to the leader two out having travelled well, but he hit the fence and his chance was lost. He beat the rest a long way and will not always run into one as sharp as the winner at this level.
TRIBAL DANCE was outpaced a mile out and eventually kept on past beaten rivals to take third. He tried to take on the winner early on and may have paid for that.
LOCHORE raced in rear and struggled from halfway.
COOLANURE was well outpaced going on to the final circuit and his trainer reported he had sulked.
WHERE’S MALACHY was outpaced from four out and has yet to make a significant mark.
BLAST MARTHA ran well for a long way and looked destined for third before being pulled up and dismounted before two out. If there are no serious problems she hinted at enough ability to get in the mix in similar contests.
DISCOVERIE was not on a going day, always in rear and pulled up before two out.

3.45 2m 1f KOSB Novices’ Handicap Chase (79-105)

The big event of the afternoon as far as some of us were concerned, but we managed to collect another last place, though not without some encouragement. A close contest with all in contention at the last.

BEIDH TINE ANSEO is a bit better than this level if he puts his best hoof forward. He was tapped for speed at the top end of the course, but stayed on well from two out to lead on the flat and on top close home. A nice performance which gave some in the Russell box cause to celebrate and he might score again while in good heart.
GREAT DEMEANOUR, a faller when looking destined for third of 4 at Perth, apparently improved on previous efforts. He had every chance and saw out his race well enough.
CLONLENEY race keenly, keeping on after being slightly caught for toe from two out. This run at least offered connections some encouragement on chasing debut.
SCORPIONS STING, a winner over hurdles last time, didn’t jump fluently and paid for that at the sharp end.
MWANGAZA led to two out and then faded on the run-in. She may be suited by more cut.
NO SUCH NUMBER raced close up but couldn’t raise his game from two out.

Finally to Milnathort Racing Club pride and joy THE VILLAGE who was just pipped for sixth place on the line and thus finished last…, again! With tongue-tie removed he was much better behaved that at Perth and jumped off nicely. He was too keen early on, and needs to learn to settle, but put in some decent jumps. Unfortunately he made mistakes four out and three out and was hanging right and difficult to steer around the final bend. He made up a fair bit of ground to the last and was in a line for third, but then either the petrol or resolve ran out and he was running on the spot going for the line.
Peter Buchanan report was fairly upbeat, that our gelding needs a right-handed track but the quick ground suits him. There are only two convenient right-handed tracks on the go in the summer, Market Rasen and Perth and he’s most likely to appear at the latter.
The jury are out, and possibly tending towards a ‘guilty’ verdict, but it’s no done deal and there might just be a competent chaser in there.

4.20 2m 2f Coppola Family Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (103-119)

Only six runners but a tight little contest won in taking fashion by MAKE IT HAPPEN. He made a bad mistake four out which set him back a bit. He had to work after that but stayed on well to win cosily. The ground here suited and he could be one to take forward for the summer campaign.
APACHEE PRINCE went on and looked the likely winner two out and kicked on but was worn down close home.
UN ANJOU wasn’t disgraced on his return to hurdling, holding a chance going to the last but then held.
CRINKLE CRAGS went up 11lbs for a Sedgefield win and hasn’t matched that form since. The Co. Durham course can throw up some specialist and it’s worth bearing in mind it was softer that day. He’s looked a long term project though and chasing will probably be his game.
SILVER SHUFFLE was put in his place before two out.
NINEPOINTSIXTHREE jinked an unseated his rider some way after the second flight.

4.55 3m 2f Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Challenge Cup Hunters’ Chase (Class 4)

Winner of the Heart Of All England chase at Hexham, CAVE HUNTER added some notable scalps in a better event here. He raced in the lead or disputing most of the way and showed determination to rally and lead before the last. He hung left no the run-in, crossing his pursuer, but had the race won, though his jockey got 3 days off.
NOWURHURLIN is a consistent sort who unseated in the Aintree Foxhunters’. This trip stretches his stamina and he was held when switched run-in, his jockey spotting the opportunity and making a bit of a play. A sound effort.
YOUNG HURRICANE was behind for much of the way but stayed no well from three out to take third place.
KALASTAR was soon off the pace and never got into the contests but inherited fourth palce.
CHANCEOFALIFETIME is another whose stamina is stretched at this tri0p. He was weakening when taking a heavy fall two out.
DANNANCEYS HILL was getting outpaced when coming down four out.
ROCKITEER led to the thirteenth but dropped away once headed and dropped away before being pulled up.
BEGGAR’S VELVET was never seriously in the contest and pulled up before two out.

5.25 3m 2f Border Facilities Handicap Chase (101-125) – Patricia Crawford Memorial Trophy

BALLYBEN was progressive last year and picked up the thread after some disappointments. He raced prominently, led two out and forged clear to win with a bit in hand. He’s headed in the right direction again.
BUDDY LOVE made an effort two out but never got to the winner. This was a decent effort in the class and he can find a race if kept going into the summer.
BEEVES led for a long way before being held from two out and ran to his form.
LORD BRENDY kept on in the latter stages without threatening the lead.
FULL JACK raced prominently but faded from the home bend.
PURCELL’S BRIDGE didn’t get in a blow from three out. He has some decent form on right-handed tracks and might do better at Perth.
GENEROUS CHIEF wasn’t’ a factor, the novice MO ROUGE jumped slowly and deliberately which didn’t help in senior company and moody ACTION MASTER didn’t show much zest.

5.55 2m ½f Jane Sturrock 40th Birthday Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Class 5)

Karen Mclintock hasn’t had the flow of bumper horses of late that she has in the past. However, she has found a decent animal in BANKS O’ HOUXTY who came clear in impressive style from two furlongs out.
SHOW ON THE ROAD was rather green, but he stayed on well enough for second. He’s a four-year-old who should develop with time and this was a sound start.
BOOGIE LIFE, a winner last time, sets the standard after a Carlisle win. Under a penalty she saw her race out but was held once the winner forged ahead.
NUTS WELL ran a good second here but may have found this surface a little more lively than ideal.
Make a note of FAIRY THEATRE who was held up in rear, but made steady progress in the final half-mile to take fifth. This looked a step up on her previous effort and she might be one for mares’ hurdles in time.
BAYSBROWN looks a big baby and may well need time. However, he made some progress from three furlongs out before getting outpaced. He should make up into a jumper in time.
John Wade’s CORRELATE led for the first mile but weakened quickly once turned from home. He will presumably show up better in the long term if going chasing.

[robnorth]

KELSO – Wednesday September 16th

Going – Good To Firm

Kelso commenced their autumn campaign in very pleasant weather, Scotland having missed the heavy rain that had affected much of the south. The turf looked in magnificent condition when I walked the course beforehand, plenty of good grass cover and no jar in the watered ground. The distances are given very precisely, having been re-measured following ‘Wetherby Distance-gate’. They will of course vary with movement of the rails over the season, and it’s worth noting that the distances were at their shortest for this meeting.

I dropped into the House Of Soutra coffee shop on the A68 between Pathhead and Lauder on my way down to the course. Well worth a visit if you are looking for a lunch on the way from Edinburgh.

For those travelling by public transport Kelso Racecourse laid on transport from Tweedbank station, the southern terminus of the newly opened Borders Railway. While the course is still a bit of a trek by public transport this new route is to be welcomed by non-drivers and makes the course a degree more accessible.

The equine action began in early afternoon with a jockeys show jumping competition held opposite the stands, featuring a mix of jump jockeys and pointing riders. The competition resulted in a tie between a team featuring female amateurs Rachael MacDonald, Rhona Pinder and Louise Clark, and a team of amateur jockeys, Will Easterby, Tom Hamilton and Jamie Hamilton.

4.40 2m 4f 189yd Barbara MacLeod Maiden Hurdle (Class 4)

The card opened with a maiden hurdle in memory of Kelso regular Babs MacLeod who died recently at the fine age of 104.

Certainly not the strongest maiden hurdle we will see in Scotland this year. Two came well clear of the remainder who were toiling from the original two out, actually the last as a stricken jockey was being treated.

WATERCLOCK has knocked on the door a few times and stayed on relentless in the closing stages to get on top towards the line. A rating of 115 looks pretty much his mark and on this evidence a step up in trip wouldn’t be a hindrance.
FINGERONTHESWITCH, winner of an Irish point and then a bumper, looked just in need of this race after a lay-off. He set the pace and was just run out of it close home, but will come on for the run and I would expect better next time.
PROFESSOR PLUM was outpaced from what became the last but kept on to the line for a clear third. He looks a stayer and further step up in trip will be likely to help.
ST QUINTIN led early on but was outpaced in the straight. His future will lie in handicap company as he’s likely to run into a few too good in non-handicaps.
THEATRICAL STYLE did not look nearly as fit as many runners from the McCain yard. He was outpaced from two out though the race will have done him good after a long break. He won a couple of bumpers but has presumably had his problems.
BEECHWOOD ALLY looked very fit, as she had done on hurdling debut back in May, but was well beaten.
LOULOUMILLS blundered badly at the sixth, depositing Tom Dowson who was then trodden on by another runner. The screens went up and Dowson was removed by ambulance, missing his subsequent ride.
CASH IS KING and THE HOODLUM appear very slow.

5.10 2m 5f 133yds Farne Salmon and Trout Handicap Chase (87-109)

Surprisingly Gordon Elliott had never recorded a Kelso winner before this, but put that right as former George Bewley charge ROMANY RYME stayed on from two out to take what looked a moderate contest. Never the most consistent, Romany Ryme didn’t jump all that well, but was produced looking very fit and that told from two out. Probably opposable under a rise in ratings, but Elliott does know how to place his animals.
SOLWAY BAY ran his usual honest race and stayed on for second without threatening the winner. A fair effort at a trip short of his best. The horse was immaculately turned out as was trainer Lisa Harrison on lead up duty, much work went into hair platting for both horse and groom.
ISTHEREADIFFERENCE got into contention down the far side for the last time. He saw out his race but was denied second on the line. Making the trip from near Bath, his trainer was clearly after the ground as this one’s wins have come on good or faster surfaces.
EVERYLASTING, not the most attractive animal but effective nevertheless on his day, led until two out but had nothing extra to offer from that point. He looked well enough off a break, so fitness not an excuse.
SENDIYM never got in a serious blow and was outpaced form the home turn.
JEWELLERY struggled from halfway and was well adrift when pulled up before the last. He’s been struggling of late and Katie Scott has work to do to get him back to his best.

5.40 2m 4f 189yds Principal & Prosper Handicap Hurdle (70-100)
A moderate handicap hurdle with a very open reflecting the lack of solid form to rely on.

TOUCH OF STEEL had been well beaten previously, but a step up in trip and blinkers seems to have wrought some improvement. Racing prominently, he challenged from two out, led at the last and stayed on for victory. It depends whether the blinkers continue to work on this one, who seemed a revved up sort in the preliminaries, but it’s not unknown for James Ewart horses to run up a sequence.
ROLL OF THUNDER bowled along nicely in front, led until the last but couldn’t find extra to respond when passed. He saw out his race well enough , seems a relatively uncomplicated sort and worth consideration in similar events on good ground.
SNOWED IN stayed on from well back for third. He has a couple of hurdle wins to his credit on softer ground but is not a prolific winner.
NABURN closed to two out but found no extra from there. Not totally disgraced, he has less mileage than most of these over hurdles and there may be a small contest for him.
ATTENTION PLEASE race prominently but couldn’t raise his game from two out.
SAINT BREUIC made his effort before two out but couldn’t see his race out. His trainer was discussing fairly precise requirements after the race which seemed to centre on races at Sedgefield.

6.10 2m 1f Straightline Construction Handicap Chase (108-132)

This is ROBIN’S COMMAND’s ground and time of year. He followed up a decent Perth win an equally impressive effort under a penalty here. He went down early and one spectator commented that he had ‘torn down to the start’, but that isn’t a bad thing with this one, more a sign of well-being. He led at the sixth, made the rest of the running and pulled clear from two out. In this from don’t count out another win soon.
MUWALLA chased the leader from two out but made no impression. He only wins in his turn but has run two decent races off a long break.
David Pipe doesn’t have a great record with handicappers here and PURPLE ‘N GOLD didn’t threaten to improve things, though not totally disgraced in third in his second chase.
JACK THE GENT lost touch from three out and would have been disadvantaged by not being able to dominate.
TOLEDO GOLD hurtled off in front, but Robin’s Command cruised past down the far side and Maurice Barnes’ charge was spent force after the eighth fence.
FANTASY KING never got into the race and was well held when falling two out.
SWIFT ARROW has two ways of running and this was off day, pulling up before two out.
SWALEDALE LAD hit the fifth hard and was pulled up and dismounted soon after.

6.40 2m 51yds Bruce Farms Supporting World Horse Welfare (107-130)

Two non-runners reduced the field, a disappointing turn out for fair prize money. It was advertised as a 0-150, but presumably there aren’t that many 130+ rated hurdlers on the go right now in the North.

MAKETHEDIFFERENCE is progressing and stayed on from the last to win this nicely. His trainer will want to strike again while this one is in such good form.
CAPTAIN BROWN ran a decent race in second, gave himself every chance and was beaten by a better handicapped horse. He goes well around here and has responded well since hold up tactics were adopted.
CHANGING THE GUARD led until before the last, at which the winner jumped across him, and kept on for third. He’s rated 140 now over fences, he ran in the Grand Annual Chase last year, and his trainer seems to be trying to take advantage of this lower hurdles mark of 115. He certainly looked very fit here.
LISBON doesn’t seem particularly well handicapped, but had every chance approaching the last before being run out of it. He’s potentially better as a chaser.
OLIVER’S GOLD had his chance but was outpaced on the urn to the last.
FRANCISCAN has clearly had problems and was well beaten from two out.

7.10 2m 51yds Racing UK Maiden Open NH Flat (Class 6)

Not quite the cornucopia of potential talent that some Kelso bumpers yield, but the winner looks useful and the second can progress.
SILVA SAMOURAI provided pre-race entertainment, tearing off around the track out of control before being withdrawn. No shortage of speed on the distaff side, her dam has bred three flat winners, but this gelding looks out of control right now.

MEET THE LEGEND looked the one ‘most likely to win a flat race’ in the paddock and duly obliged in decent style. Looking keen, he led after three furlongs and pulled clear down the straight. Although clearly set up for this one, he has the build to make a jumper and is a nice prospect for a Dalgleish stable that is setting the racing world alight right now.
DUBAI ANGEL didn’t look quite as ready as perhaps he could be, but he’s a nice sort and race a sound enough race to hold the rest, including an experienced third.
MARDALE had placed three times previously, but didn’t look as ‘on the money’ as some of Nicky Richards’s bumper runners do here. She was held from two out, but even though she lacks the scope of some, she would be worth an interest in mares maiden/novice hurdles as such events seldom take much winning up here.
JETHRO showed some speed and might show up over fences in time having jumped round in an Irish maiden juveniles point.
BARNEY DWAN lacks the look of many McCain runners. Small and angular, he doesn’t cut a handsome figure. He did run with credit in an Irish point though and may make a jumper given time.
THROCKLEY showed up well in a moderate contest at Southwell but was well beaten here.

[Author]

Posts