It’s been a long month…..

As November draws to a close, one we can look back on with mixed emotions…. More of that later…. Let’s just crack on

Peoples Nap Choices –

Towcester – Good

1.40 – Handicap Hurdle – Class 3 – 2m 4f 217y

Who’s My Jockey – 3rd to Palmer’s Hill on hurdle debut (2m Class 4) at Uttoxeter but stepped up in trip to 2m 4f earlier this month, again at Uttoxeter in a class 4, winning by 6 lengths. 3 of the first 6 have all finished runner up’s next time out – 5/2

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2.40 – Mares’ Maiden Hurdle – Class 4 -1m 7f 151y

 Spice Girl – Has won 3 NH flat race, from 1m 7f to 2m. Last run in July in a Class 6 NHF at Uttoxeter, winning by 10 lengths and makes Hurdle debut – 2/1

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Taunton – Good

1.50 – Novice Chase – Class 3 – 2m 7f 3y

Lovely Job – Runner Up to Vintage Clouds by 18 lengths at Ascot over 3m last month, that was first run since August, when winning over 3m at Hexam, drops back in trip and chase form is decent 2/1/2/1/F/2/2. Winner at 3m, runner up at 2m 5f, first try over this distance – 2/1

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Peoples Nap(Wednesday) – Miss Night Owl – Unplaced….

I shall pass you over to Charlie to fill you in on a couple of things and I will see you for Final Word –

Cheers Rich, before we get to my results, this has to be said – This has been one of  the heaviest losing month’s I’ve ever had, and to be fair I’m not a happy chappy at the moment. I won’t hide the fact and I’m not proud of the amount Iv lost this month, to be down over £300 quid in one month is something I’ve not experienced for some time, and is one I definitely won’t be experiencing again. I have decided to take the day off and have a small step back and draw a line through November. Although overall I’m still in profit and have 2 months left to turn the quarter back into a profitable one. It still hurts to see a loss of that proportion and hopefully I will swing things back around. Anyway enough of that my results for Wednesday are listed below.

Chloris -Finished 6th and although was a loss is one I’m keeping an eye on for the future.

Plantagenet -Unseated the jock and was a tad disappointing although had been impressive last 5 runs and can be forgiven the odd blip.

Jennifer Juniper -Finished 7th and is another one for the future.

All 3 selections losing has been the story of my month, I can only apologise for my poor run of form this month, but as stated above I’m confident of turning that around and hopefully gain back some profit on top. I will hand you back over to Rich for the Final Word.

Final Word –

WE all have good and bad months, Charlie is a top guy, who knows his onions and no doubt absolutely smash it, he just need’s a couple of arrow’s to hit the spot and Boom…..

I’m not a huge fan of Newcastle(AW) so I left that alone and I gave Ireland a miss too. Over at Musselburgh, there was a couple I liked, with Canny Style(1.30) looking to get into the Winner’s Enclosure after being beaten by a neck on Hurdles debut earlier this month and drops back from 2m 1f to 1m 7f. No Such Number(2.00) drops back from 3m(ran here at this course 3 weeks ago)  to 2m 3f, this is second run of the season and won 5 from 8 over this distance last term. Back at Towcester, Linenhall(12.40) a winner on hurdle debut by 1 length from Good Man Pat, who has since been a runner up again, but has to give 6Lb to the field……

That is your lot folks…. Fingers crossed!

Remember to only bet what you can afford, if not just watch

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

We Are Back……… Oh yes we are!

After a brief break, due to either of us not finding anything suitable to post, we thought it was best to keep our cash in our pockets….. But today we are back…. We have the Usual PN Choices…. Charlie’s Selection’s & of course Final Word. So let’s get down to business –

Peoples Nap Choices –

Wolverhampton (AW) – Standard

2.20 – Handicap – Class 2 – 1m 1f

Pactolus – Last two 1m 2f AW runs have resulted in 3rd & runner up, both in Class 2 company. #/4’s of a length 3rd to Petite Jack at Chelmsford in September before a runner’s up spot by a head last month to Plutonian. A C/D winner back in February this year & baring 1 poor run this term over 1m 141y, AW from read 2/3/3/2 – 13/2

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Hereford – Good

2.40 – Mares’ Handicap Hurdle – Class 3 – 2m 53y

Miss Night Owl – 7th of 8 on deep ground at Wetherby in a 2m Mares’ Listed race won by La Bague Au Roi(who has since won another Listed race). Had previously won 3 on the bounce, including a Class 3 2m, Handicap Hurdle at Statford by a short head, 3 from that race were all in the Listed contest, Graceful Lady was 3rd at Statford and has since won a Mares’ Class 3  at Ascot. Miss Night Owl, has to give 10Lb to the field – 13/8

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Kempton(AW) Standard to Slow

6.10 – Handicap – Class 2 – 6f

Reckless Endeavour – Two from Two AW runs at Dundalk since August, both wins for Ger Lyons. Now in the safe hands of Jamie Osbourne. Won at Dundalk, when last run in September over 6f, in a handicap, by 1 & 3/4 lengths, rated 97. Makes UK debut off a mark of 98. – 5/1

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PN Result(Saturday) – Clyne – Plugged on for 3rd……

And it is with great pleasure, we welcome back Charlie…… What have you got for us today my man? You tell the good people and I will catch them for Final Word….

Cheers Rich it’s nice to be back with some better races to target and on that note please find my Selections for Wednesday listed below :

Chloris -Unraced Filly out of Dansili and Primevere, Dam winner over 1m-1m 2f ,was also an all-weather listed race winner rated at 110 .Trained by John Gosden who has a 17% strike rate this season with 2yr old’s making debut. Ticks a lot off boxes and looks really nicely bred, definitely one to put in the notebook regardless, although I think the price is very generous.

Win Advised

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Plantagenet -Has been a revelation since switching yards winning 4 on the trot over hurdles and only just finding one too good on chase debut at Plumpton over 3m 1f, Races off same mark and is taken to go one better this time.

Win Advised

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Jennifer Juniper -Has only raced in point races in Ireland finishing 4th and then 2nd next time out, has moved to Fergal O’Brien who is in excellent form with bumper runners the past few weeks, again 3-1 is a nice price and given Fergal’s form with his horse’s is one I can’t ignore.

Win Advised

.Well that’s my thoughts on Wednesday’s selections, Good luck if following and please remember to keep stakes small so it doesn’t hurt your pocket. I will hand you back over to Rich for the Final Word.

 

Final Word –

It’s nice to be back, we both have been keeping an eye on the racing, not just twiddling our thumbs or nothing you know…. Anyway, a few failed to make the PN and have landed on the cutting floor….. Hereford is back….. On good ground too…. So Court Liability(1.05) looks to add to the debut hurdle win over 2m 5f, now drops back to 2m 3f and has to run off top weight, if the elusive winning run is to continue… I had noted Charlie’s 2.10 selection too….  At Kempton(AW) in the evening, I say evening, 4.10, maiden, Glencadam Master, will be hoping to improve on the debut 3rd at Nottingham earlier this month, when making AW debut, finishing 2 & 3/4 lengths behind the winner. A couple from that race have Placed in a Chelmsford Class 2, so form is reasonably decent….

Just a quick note : Rich is Publishing a few to Follow, in December’s 3 Furlongs Out Magazine, due for release on December 4th…….

Thanks for popping by and it’s good to be back!

Please remember to only bet what you can afford, if not just watch

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

 

 

 

 

Simple Saturday

Well if Thursday was Pants…..then Friday was the bee’s knee’s …. for Rich! Charlie has been incredibly unlucky lately and it really is only a matter of time before he smashes a few winner’s on the bounce. Let’s get down to business …..

Peoples Nap Choices –

Gowran – Heavy

1.10 – Novice Hurdle – 4YO Only – 2m

Roaring Bull – Beat the Butchers Said in a NH Flat race by 1/2 a length on debut at Punchestown, before landing the odds again at Tipperary by 7 & 1/2 lengths in a maiden hurdle – 7/4

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Haydock – Heavy – Soft in Places

1.50 – Handicap Hurdle – Class 2 – 2m 2f 191y

Clyne – Won Two from Four runs last term, beaten by The new One here and finished 3rd to Ballyandy in the Betfair Grade 3 Hurdle. Beaten 3/4’s of a length on season return by The New One at Ffos Las in a class 2 Handicap last month – 3/1

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Ascot – Good to Soft

2.05 – Christy 1965 Chase – Grade 2 Class 1 – 2m 5f 8y

Top Notch – Won the Graduation Chase over C/D last December from Sizing Codelco on the way to landing the Grade 1 Scilly Isles Novice Chase at Sandown. Runner up to Yorkhill in the JLT before finishing 3rd to Flying Angel at Aintree in April. 3rd of 3 on season return in a Class 2 Hurdle at Aintree earlier this month. Has 100% record of 2 wins from 2 course runs – 11/4

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PN Result(Friday) – Delusionofgrandeur – WON 7/4

I shall hand you over to Charlie now to run through yesterday & a look ahead to today and I will catch you for Final Word –

Cheers Rich, let’s kick things off with a recap on Friday’s performance.

Kilcrea Vale -Finished 3rd and was a loss.

On The Road -Finished 2nd and was yet another loss.

Bambari -Finished 2nd last and was another loss.

.Desperately unlucky again with 2 out of the 3 I put up on Friday hitting the frame without winning, it’s starting to become annoying now and the month is a complete write off profit wise.

We go again on Saturday and my selections for that are listed below :

Lough Derg Farmer – Has been impressive for Nicky Henderson so far with 2 wins and a 2nd place from 3 outings so far this year, including winning a Class 5 maiden at Doncaster over 2m 4f. Next up was a Class 3 Novice Hurdle over 2m 4f at Doncaster where he finished 2nd and finally winning a class 4 Novice Hurdle over 2m 5f at Ffos Las. The step back up to 2m 7f shouldn’t be a problem and could quite easily take this race considering Henderson has won with debutants in 2014 and 2016.

Win Advised

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Champers On Ice -Consistent type who always runs his race. Has been contesting novice chases since December 2016 with a varied array of results, these include winning a Class 3 Novice Chase at Uttoxeter over 3m, next up was a Class 1 Novice Listed Chase at Warwick over 3m when he finished 2nd. Two races at Cheltenham were next on the agenda he was 6th in the first of those in a Class 2 Novice Chase over 2m 4f. The final race was a Class 1 Group 2 Chase over 3m 7f and he was pulled up. The last run can be forgiven and a chance is taken on a return to form here wearing first time blinkers coupled with his trainer D Pipe winning 3 of the last 6 renewals, a bold run can’t be ruled out.

Win Advised

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Sire De Grugy -Has been as consistent as rain in Scotland, although was 3rd on seasonal return over hurdles at Ffos Las last time out. He won this race last season before coming 2nd in the Tingle Creek at Sandown, and although is considerably higher in the weights now back chasing is still capable of landing a race in this company.

Win Advised

.well that’s my thoughts on Saturday’s selections, Good luck if following and please remember to keep stakes small so it doesn’t hurt your pocket. I will hand you back over to Rich for the Final Word.

 

Final Word –

What a day for this section yesterday….. 3 winners , all nice prices too…. So let’s see what we have left from the |PN for today….. Ascot…. Palmers Hill(12.20) Won on hurdles debut, with nice prospect Who’s My Jockey back in 3rd that day, who has since won, steps up in trip, while Defi Du Seuil(2.40) returns after going last season unbeaten over 2m and now steps up in trip. Over at Haydock, on possibly bottomless ground, I spent the evening looking at horses that have won on heavy ground, so with that in mind Courtown Oscar(12.40) Won last time at Carlisle & here last season, both on bottomless ground. Won last time, by a length, with front two 7 lengths clear of the field , his last 6 Heavy ground run stats are 12113PU1…… Another Heavy ground winner is Cyrus Darius(1.15) has won a pair of Class 3 chases & is two from two on heavy ground, has a slight raise in trip and class, but runs from the same mark as win at Ayr earlier this month. Over at Gowran, the ground is also heavy and Pat’s Oscar(1.45) Was a heavy ground winner at Perth by 7 lengths over 2m 4f off 105, with a runner up spot by 3/4’s of length last month at Clonmel and races off 105, same as win at Ayr.

A couple of AW meeting’s today too, daytime at Lingfield, where Gulliver(12.15) has been a revelation since switching to AW, winning 3 on the bounce, two over 6f & one over 7f over C/D. Drops from winning a Class 2 to Class 3…… And another, Blazed(3.40) dropped back to 5f, runner up on first distance run, won nicely by a nose earlier this month at Wolves and the 3rd has since won… Finally at Wolverhampton(AW) Guvenor’s Choice(5.45) Made a winning return after 100 days away by 1 & 1/2 lengths over C/D(1m 142y), now runs under a penalty but Clifford Lee claims 3Lb….

That is your lot folks… oh hang on, I forgot that Mullin’s superstar MIN returns tomorrow at Gowran(2.40) after 10 months away form the track….. Now that really is your lot, unless your a head or heart person, then  Sire De Grugy returns to try and retain the race won last season at Ascot! …… Now I really am away….

Thanks for popping by folks!

Remember to only bet what you can afford, or just watch these equine superstars…. 

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

 

 

Funky Friday….. Too late I’ve called it now!

Well Thursday was a bit pant’s wasn’t it…. PN was a non runner, after being found Lame(via RP) and the other two choices were, ummm, well not much good to be honest! Now is the end of the week and the weekend is like an on coming storm….. So let’s get down to business…..

Peoples Nap Choices –

Catterick – Good to Soft

1.50 – Handicap Chase – Class 3 – 3m 1f 54y

Delusionofgrandeur – Has a fantastic record here, winning 3 times over C/D from 3 runs, including last February in a Class 4 Novice Chase, rated 136, by a neck before romping home by 36 lengths the race after. Two 3rd place finishes so far this term, last time out at Sedgefield over 3m 5f in a Class 2 Handicap Chase by 3 & 1/2 lengths from Audacious Plan earlier this month, is now 2 below last win mark & back in trip – 7/4

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Ffos Las – Heavy

2.50 – Handicap Hurdle – XClass 3 – 2m 5f 192y

On The Road – Won over hurdles on return last season, before winning 4 from the next 6 races, including 3 chase contests. Won on heavy ground at Lingfield during that run. Won last time out back in March over 2m 5f & is able to run off the same mark for season return – 11/4

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Ascot – Good to Soft

3.50 – Handicap Hurdle – Class 2 – 1m 7f 152y

Speredek – Runs under a penalty for a 15 length win last time out at Exeter on season return over 2m 1f, having previously won the last 3 Chase starts the previous term over 2m, 1m 7f & 2m 2f. Up in class & due to go up more after this race – 5/1

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All Prices SkyBet

PN Result(Thursday) – River Frost – Non Runner – Poll void as PN choice had over 50% of vote when declared a NR

I will hand you over to Charlie, who had another unlucky day, soon the Onions will fall right & the pot will be bursting….. I will see you for Final Word –

Cheers Rich, let’s crack on with a look back at Thursday’s results :

Dreamcatching -was pulled up and was a loss.

Eri Na Casca – Finished 8th and was another loss.

Street of Dreams – Finished 3rd and was yet another loss.

.Another day another poor performance, can’t get a winner for love nor money at the moment. Hopefully that will change with Friday’s selections listed below.

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Kilcrea Vale -Was 2nd last time out at Haydock over 2m 5f in a Class 2 Handicap Chase. If repeating that run here should be enough to land this race for Nicky Henderson.

Win Advised

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On The Road -Won last 3 races including one at Lingfield and 2 at Sedgefield, makes seasonal return and won first race back last season. Although is now rated 23lb higher than last hurdles win mark can’t be discounted giving previous form.

Win Advised

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Bambari -Won over course and distance last time out after a lengthy break. Has only been raised 1lb for that and a follow up can’t be ruled out here.

Win Advised

.Well that’s my thoughts on Friday’s selections, Good luck if following and please remember to keep stakes small so it doesn’t hurt your pocket. I will hand you over to Rich for The Final Word.

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Final Word –

AS I mentioned yesterday Dans Le Vent, looks one to follow and has been added to the tracker… I like Pure Vision(Ffos Las 2.15) although falling early on chase debut, could well make amends today, if jumping ok(Obviously!) while over at Ascot, Sizing Tennesse(1.00) is another who fell on chase debut, but was going well when doing so and could make up for that today….. Mr One More(2.05) is up against some nice horses, including Duel Aintree Bumper winner Lalor, who was runner up on hurdles debut, while Mr One More, has won both NHF start and Hurdle debut and could be under rated.  Newcastle(AW) hold an evening card, with Lord Caprio(6.15) looking to add to the win last time here over 7f, by stepping up to the mile under a penalty. Malaspina(7.45) makes UK debut for Ivan Furtado, having been purchased from France, has 3 wins from 4 runs over today’s distance(1m) and has also won on the AW back in France…..

Plenty to get our teeth into & i’m sure there will be a few making the notebook too

Remember to only bet what you can afford, if not just watch

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

 

 

Testing Thursday……

Typical…… Hype it all up and what happens? You fall flat on your face! Won’t be happening again…. Although 2 of the 3 PN choices won again….Just not the Peoples Nap! As I mentioned before TYPICAL….. 3 days in a row of 2 from 3 choices….. Has to be a full house sooner or later doesn’t it?? Let’s look at today…..

Peoples Nap Choices –

Market Rasen – Good to Soft

1.10 – Handicap Hurdle – Class 2 – 2m 4f 139y

River Frost – Two length 5th on season return at Chepstow in the Grade 3 Silver Trophy, duel Class 3 winner last season over 2m 5f, won second time out last season – 6/4

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Chelmsford(AW) – Standard

6.30 – Novice Stakes – Class 3 – 2YO Only – 1m

Blacklooks – 7f winner at Leicester in a Class 5 Handicap by 1/2 a length, before looking the likely winner at Nottingham over the extended mile, before crashing out through the rail, Chance taken – 6/1

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8.30 – Handicap – Class 5 – 7f

Medicean EL Diablo – Won over C/D last December, had 4 runs this season before returning to the winner’s enclosure at Kempton(AW) last time out by 3/4’s of a length over 1m, drops back to 7f today – 11/4

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PN Result(Wednesday) – Hairdryer- Runner Up & Rich’s Birthday Selection – 5th…. No Joy!

I shall pass you over to Charlie, who was unlucky yesterday, with the ground turning and then having a runner up…. Let’s see what he has for Thumping Thursday and I will see you for Final Word –

Cheers Rich, let’s crack on with Wednesday’s Results listed below.

Just Joelliott -Fell and was a loss

Catcher On The Go -Finished 4th and was a loss.

Salute The Soldier -Finished 2nd and was another loss.

.Another disappointing day with all 3 selections losing, hopefully have a better run for my money with Thursday’s selections listed below.

Dreamcatching -Won twice in April in 2 Class 4 Novice Hurdles, First of those was at Market Rasen over 2m and the second was at Wincanton over 2m 3f. Has been held the last twice firstly in a Class 3 conditions hurdle at Cheltenham over 2m and a Class 3 Novice Chase at Ludlow over 1m 7f. Last two runs can be forgiven and a chance is taken on a return to form here in a slightly easier race.

Win Advised

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Eri Na Casca -Has won a Handicap Chase here two weeks ago over 2m 2f from a rating of 112 but runs in a hurdle race today off 104. Didn’t stay 2m 7f on most recent spin over hurdles here back in October although had previously beaten Granny Biddy over 2m 4 at Balinrobe in September and Granny Biddy has since won her next 3 races.

Win Advised

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Street of Dreams -We travel over to Meydan for today’s Nap who was 2nd last time out here on debut for new yard although this race is a furlong further showed enough on previous run to suggest the extra yardage won’t be a problem and a bold run can’t be discounted here.

Win Advised

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Well that’s my thoughts on Thursday’s selections, good luck if following and please remember to keep stakes small so it doesn’t hurt your pocket. I will hand you over to Rich for The Final Word.

Final Word –

Well yesterday didn’t work out as you have it planned in your head, but hey, I had a cracking Birthday with my Family and that is all that matters…. Now back to today…. Plenty of NH racing and TWO AW cards….. Lets start with the NH cards…

Market Rasen has a note book race to start, with Dans Le Vent(12.10) a 3 & 1/4 length runner up to Smart prospect Slate House at Cheltenham last month, could be a decent type to keep an eye on, while Bonnet’s Vino(12.40) who returned last month with a runner up spot at Fakenham, the C/D winner was 10 length behind but that race has yielded couple of next time out winners and could be one to note. Over at Wincanton, Morianour(12.50) was last seen in August 2016, finishing runner up at Bangor, having won on hurdle debut at Uttoxeter a month before…. Another returning after a long absence is Apache Stronghold(Thurles 1.00) who has not been seen since finishing runner up to Valseur Lido, in the Punchestown Novice Champion Chase in April 2015, when ridden by, now, retired jockey Paul Carberry, only raced 14 times in his career, winning two chases & was once rated 155, now returns rated 147, having won last at Leopardstown in a Listed Novice Chase in February 2015, rated 149. Defiantly one to keep an eye on if return is fruitful…. Now those TWO AW cards… Newcastle, I only found one of note and that was Master Singer(2.20) Has won both AW runs, here in May over 1m 2f & at Wolves last time out by 1length in a class 3 handicap, this is a class 2 & could be worth a look, but at forecast odds of 5/6 is just a watch for me AS is Wissahickon(Chelmsford 7.00) who won by a nose on debut at Wolves over the extended mile and is likely to improve from that run, but 8/11 is just a watch for me…..

That is your lot……

Remember to only bet what you can afford, if not just watch

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

A touch of Birthday Bashing……

No beating around the bush today…… Boom….. PN won…… Oh & another one of the choices, making it Meatloaf again…… One day we will get all 3 in the Winner’s Enclosure! Today is Rich’s Birthday, yes he is 21 again….. So he has a Birthday Selection for you later in the Blog! But first…..
Peoples Nap Choices – 

Chepstow – Soft

3.30 – Handicap Chase – Class 4 – 2m 3f 98y

Flaming Charmer – Made season return here earlier this month, when a 2 length runner up to Paddy The Oscar in a 2m 7f Class 4 Handicap Chase, the front pair finished 8 lengths clear of 3rd with Charmer, having every chance until the last furlong. Now drops back in trip, to his previous winning distance – 11/4

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Kempton(AW) – Standard

4.10 – Handicap – Class 5 – 1m 2f

Hairdryer – Has finished in the first 3 in last 4 runs, having won at Chelmsford over 1m 2f a year ago yesterday! Runner up when last seen in April in a Class 4 Handicap(1m 2f) at Chelmsford, beaten by 3/4’s of a length by Alf Guineas. Drops in class after a break – 5/2

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4.40 – Nursery – Class 6 – 2YO Only -7f

Roman Spinner – A win and a runner up berth from last two runs here, won over 6f  before a 3/4’s of a length C/D runner up spot, before filling the same spot back on the turf in Nottingham last month, in a Class 3 6f Handicap – 10/3

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PN Result(Tuesday) – Joegogo – Won ….. 5/4SP

I will hand you over to Charlie, fresh from a day away & looking to bang in a couple of winner’s on his return….. I will see you soon!

Cheers Rich, before I get on with today’s selections, I would like to wish Rich a happy birthday and thank him for the hard work and effort he has put in this past 12 months. Anyway now that’s out of the way let’s crack on with Wednesday’s selections listed below.

Just Joelliott -Has won over 3m back in January at Ludlow, shaped well last time out over 3m 2f here, when finishing 3rd after being in contention and tiring late on. Looks on a workable mark and can get involved again here in a slightly shorter race.

Win Advised

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Catcher On The Go -Won twice at Ffos Las over 2m 4f and then 1m 3f. Has ran two poor efforts since finishing 5th on both occasions but was in good shape before that and a chance is taken of a return to form here.

Win Advised

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Salute The Soldier -was a fair 3rd on debut at Newbury last month and the 5th place from that race has won since and a chance is taken here to win this race with normal progress looking likely.

Won Advised

.Well that’s my thoughts on Wednesday’s selections, Good luck if following and please remember to keep stakes small so it doesn’t hurt your pocket. I will pass you back to Rich for his Selection and the Final Word.

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Rich’s Birthday Selection –

Not very often I put up a selection these day’s but hopefully I have found a wee gem amongst the rough…..  Kempton(AW) – Listed Stakes – Class 1 – 1m

Archetype – 3 wins over 1m, including the last 2 runs. Winning a Sandown Class 3 Handicap by 2 & 1/2 lengths in September before heading to Maisons- Laffitte to win the Herbager Stakes by 7 lengths. Won over 1m 2f at Sandown back in July and is AW winner on only AW start back in May at Chelmsford. Champion Jockey S.De Sousa is on board – 10/1 EW

Final Word –

Happy Birthday to me, yes I know I look like a monkey and smell like one too, well so the kids keep saying anyway…. You have a rare treat, with the Birthday Selection and with certain bookie’s paying 4 places too! I still have a few that didn’t make the PN cut, so here we go…… Clan Legend(Hexam 2.35) makes season return over hurdles, after spending last season chasing. Has 4 hurdle wins to his name and is running off 118, which is the mark he won when returning last season at this course….. Alfie’s Choice(Chepstow 3.00) is still a maiden, but finished runner up on season return to On a Promise, who has since won as has 3rd that day! Groundunderrepair(Warwick 2.45) was a 12 length 3rd on season return over 2m 5f, drops back to 2m 3f. Steely Addition, the winner that day has won a Class 3 since and Ground has a 2m win, on heavy going at Lingfield under is belt from last season…. That is the lot from the NH, now we head to Kempton on the AW, where you have 2 PN Choices & my Birthday Selection. I cannot not mention a 1/2 shot though can I … Yeah you can, it’s your birthday… Oh ok then, if you insist…. Qaysar(5.40) finished a 1 length runner up on debut at Newmarket last month in a Class 4 Novice Stakes, where the 3rd has since won. Drops down a class.

That is your lot folks, a jammed packed blog from start to finish. Thanks for popping by, we appreciate your support.

Remember if you cannot afford to bet, please just watch

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

 

Testing Tuesday

Yesterday’s PN had 50% of the vote and lost while the other two, had 50% between them and both won! You couldn’t make it up….. Well you could, but anyway it happened! Not despondent….. We move swiftly on to Tuesday!

Peoples Nap Choices – 

Southwell – Good

12.30 – Handicap Chase – Class 4 – 2m 4f 62y

Captain Mowbray -Led before falling at Sedgefield when having every chance to break the maiden tag, stepped up from 2m 3f to 2m 5f, again at Sedgefield. This time finishing runner up by 3/4’s of a length, front pair 8 lengths clear of 3rd, who has since won a class 3 at Kelso. Sports first time cheek pieces today – 11/4

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Lingfield(AW) – Standard

3.10 – Nursery – Class 5 – 2YO Only – 5f6y

Joegogo – Won over 5f last time out in a Kempton(AW) class 5 Nursery by 1 & 3/4’s of a length, pulling away to win readily – 11/4

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Fakenham – Good to Soft

3.20 – Handicap Chase – Class 4 – 2m 59y

Movie Legend – 3rd on season return to Exitas, all be it by 14 & 1/2 lengths at Kempton, who has since placed in a Class 2 at Cheltenham & won a Listed contest chase at Ascot. That race was over 2f further. Won over 2m 1f before break, so drop in trip no issue – 11/4

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PN Result(Monday) – Fly Home Harry – Limped home…. Unplaced

I will pass you over to Charlie now, with a Re Cap of yesterday. I on the other hand, will see you for Final Word –

Cheers Rich, let’s start with a recap on Monday’s selections.

Boost -Finished 5th and was a loss.

Flanagans Field – Finished 3rd and was another loss.

Itlaaq -Finished 5th and was yet another loss.

Disappointing day with all 3 selections losing. I had a look at Tuesday’s cards but nothing’s caught my eye so it’s a no bet day for me. I will pass you over to Rich for the Final Word.

 

Final Word –

I tried so hard to find value today….. But there is 3 meeting’s and quite a few short priced Favourites, which will probably do the business, but as we have seen at Wolverhampton the last 2 days, nothing can be taken for granted!

So these are really, what I had left, both at Lingfield on the AW. One is short… Kassar(12.40) Who won on debut, over 1m in a class 4 Novice Stakes at Kempton(AW) in October by a neck. Both the runner up (Msayyan) & 3rdplace(Bow Street) have since won. The other is Relevant(3.40) in the Apprentice handicap, Beaten a short head at Newcastle(AW) last time, run’s from the same mark & sports first time cheek pieces!

That is your lot folks……

Remember to only bet what you can Afford, if not just watch 

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

Mystical Monday

Sunday was interesting, decent racing on TV…. But now we go back to class 4 -6 handicap etc, but that’s where were at, so let’s crack on with it…..

Peoples Nap Choices –

Leicester – Good

12.50 – Handicap Chase – Class 4 – 2m 6f 151y

Fly Home Harry – A winner last time out over 2m 7f at Ludlow by 1 length from Running Wolf. That was the second run of this term, after a runner up on yard debut in a Fontwell Conditions Handicap Chase – 11/4

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Plumpton – Good to Soft

3.10 – Handicap Chase – Class 4 – 2m 3f 164y

Master Burbidge – Winner on chase debut back in April at Sedgefield in a class 4 Novice Handicap. Fell on season return at Wincanton in a class 4 Conditions Handicap Chase. Noel Fehily rides today – 11/4

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Wolverhampton(AW) – Standard

3.30 – Handicap – Class 5 – 6f 20y

Invincible Ridge – 3rd on return to AW, having run on turf since May. Only beaten a 1/4 of a length earlier this month in a class 5 Handicap over C/D by Blazed. The front 3 were 2 & 1/4 lengths clear of 4th & is able to run from the same mark of 70, which is 3 below when winning here over C/D in April off 73 – 4/1

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PN Result(Sunday) – Fox Norton WON – SP 5/6

I shall hand you over to Charlie now for a re-cap & a run down of todays Runner’s, there is no H2H to look forward too today, so I will see you all for Final Word –

Cheers Rich, let’s start with Sunday’s results :

Easter In Paris -Ran out of steam and finished 2nd last and was a loss.

Wylde Magic -Finished 6th and was another loss.

Jenkins -Finished 7th and was yet another loss.

.Nothing went right in any of my races today with the only positive to take is all 3 horse’s returned safe. I have selections for Monday and they are listed below.

Boost -Winner of 2 races here earlier in the year over 6f and 7f. Was 4th here in March over 7f when making hat-trick bid. Cheekpieces tried today and a return to winners enclosure can’t be ruled out.

Win Advised

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Flanagans Field -Has a win and has placed 2nd twice this year including last time out at Ffos Las when beaten by a neck into 2nd over 2m. Goes up in trip to 2m 4f and 114y and can get involved off same mark as last time although does run off bottom weight in this race and with a 3lb claimer on board could be the one to be on.

Win Advised

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Itlaaq -Was 3rd last time out at Doncaster over 1m 2f, goes up in trip here to 2m 110y and had shown promise on couple of runs on the all-weather, jock claims a handy 4lb and could swing the race in our favour.

Win Advised

.Well that’s my thoughts on Monday’s selections, Good luck if following and please remember to keep stakes small so it doesn’t hurt your pocket. I will hand you over to Rich for the Final Word.

 

Final Word – 

Faugheen won well on return, well saying that he was 5 lengths ahead all the way round & nobody got near him… Fox Norton won well too… Thing’s are looking good for the next few months. But I am not one for Anti Post bet’s, so I am keeping my cash in my pocket! Thought’s are also with Ian Williams & connections, with the loss of London Prize.

Let’s see what I had left from the PN Choices then folks… Tikkanbar(1.10 Plumpton) was last seen finishing 10th in the Grade 2 Bumper at Aintree in April & now tackles hurdles for the first time on season return, while over at Leicester, Really Super(2.50) is given a second hurdles start, after finishing a 3/4’s of a length runner up on debut over 2m at Fakenham. Once rated 75 when with R.Beckett. also another former flat horse, Speed Company(3.50), who was a class 3 winner on the level makes hurdles debut.

There is also racing on the AW at Wolverhampton, Picture No Sound(2.00) who won last time out in a maiden at Newbury, makes handicap debut in a Nursery & Finally Custard The Dragon(2.30) could well out run the double figure odds today, with two wins & 1 place from 3 class 4 AW runs, last two runs over C/D have seen runner up spots by 1 length & a short head. Now rated 82, won at Southwell off 80 & placed at Newcastle off 85. Although last run at Southwell, was a disappointing 6th, some  6 & 1/4 lengths from the winner!

That’s all for today folks, Thanks for popping by…..

Remember to only bet what you can afford, if not just watch.

All the Best – Charlie & Rich

 

One Mans Dream – John Neild & Splash of Ginge

This is the story of One Mans Dream, John Neild. John tells us about his journey from the Streets of Liverpool to the Winners Enclosure at Cheltenham……… And beyond.

Growing up as boy on the streets of Norris Green, a truly working class suburb of Liverpool.  We had two passions, football and racing.

Quickly realising I was not going to be the next Kenny Dalglish, I only had eyes on one thing, being a jockey.

Ever since I first saw Red Rum coming round that elbow ‘like a fresh horse’, it was all I could think of.

I was the right size, weight (yes really!) and I promised my Mum that one day I would walk down our road a GRAND NATIONAL winner.

I did make it as far as working at a racing yard, albeit briefly, when the then John Oaksey, got me a place with Henry Candy.

Mr Candy was very decent and noble but soon made it clear that he felt that he had more chance of riding a National winner than I did..

I cried all the way home… By the time I saw my Mum at Lime Street Station, I must have looked like a 7 stone red eyed baby panda.

So back in the ‘Pool’ I was, tail stuck firmly between my skinny legs…I did get out of Liverpool, in fact quite a lot, but the dream never left me.  I would just have to try and find a different way of achieving it.

The next 20 years saw me in the USA, London, China…in fact just about the 4 corners of this planet.

I had been successful (not skint), a failure (very skint)…more than once. First in the music business and then the renewable energy field, not exactly a conventional route through life and business but I was still alive and kicking… and most of all, I was  still dreaming.

So, once there was enough money in the pot, that we could afford to throw down a pit, I had to try get that dream back on track…

Off I went with my ‘racing manager’(great job considering I owned no horses) Pistol Pete, to Nigel Twiston Davies yard on a freezing cold February morning in 2012.

The duffle coat in the distance was frostier than the ground beneath my feet (more of him later) but Carl Llewellyn showed us around, I fell in love with the place.

“Right Carl, I’ve got 20 grand, I’m going to buy a horse and all I want to do is win the National…” Carl, quite rightly, didn’t say a word but did send us down to The Hollow Bottom for some breakfast. Here, my friends, is where the deal was well and truly closed. Basically, it’s the pub I had been dreaming of all my life. Beer, Food and Racing…I was in love!!!

So come May of that year, the horse was bought and we named him SPLASH OF GINGE… Off to Nigels he went, he was broken in and I just sat and waited to get the phone call that he was scorching up the gallops. The call came, and there was bad and good news…

Bad news, he was the slowest horse they think they had ever had on their gallops BUT the good news, the only other horse they had which could compare ‘snail pace’ wise was Earth Summit (1998 Grand National Winner).

Well, he wasn’t quite as slow as everyone thought. GINGE made slow progress in bumpers before really showing ability in a maiden hurdle at Chepstow splitting a couple of horses rated in the 130 bracket.

A disappointing run at Carlisle followed before we achieved one part of my dream, yes, MY horse was entered to run at Aintree.

Okay, not the National but I didn’t care. I was mob handed, I was ready and all the horse had to do was deliver.

He did, by 20 beautiful Aintree lengths. As I watched him easing down close to the line with Sam Twiston Davies tapping him playfully down the neck, I felt in total dreamland and honestly thought that day could never be beaten. I sat and watched the DVD on repeat all that night with bottle of wine in hand..THANK YOU GINGE!

What’s followed since has been well documented. The ‘slowest’ horse went on to win the Betfair Hurdle that season and came 2nd in the Grade 1 Mersey Novices Hurdle on Grand National day, I was getting closer folks!

The next season he went novice chasing and won twice at Cheltenham (yes THAT Cheltenham) including the prestigious New Years Day big handicap.

He hasn’t won since but he’s still racing and loving life, I have every faith he will do it again. He has given us everything and owes me nothing!

This journey has been made all the more special by the people who have joined the ‘Ginge Army’ along the way.

The laughter, the tears, the hangovers (thanks Hugh and Charlie at The Hollow Bottom) have given me memories that no one can ever take away.

My advice to anyone getting into racehorse ownership. Find a trainer you can trust, ideally one who feels the ups and downs even more than you do.

Nigel is quite possible the most honest, caring and downright stubborn person I’ve ever met in my life.

We were lucky to have ever sent our horse to him, I think he would be healthier if we had never came along but deep down, I know he loves us to.

Nigel and Carl have gone on to be two of my best friends. Strangely, that doesn’t always show itself when we win, but more in the quiet moments when you lose.

We got more horses coming through at Nigels, but to be honest if they come close to what we’ve achieved with this one, I will be the luckiest owner ever.

Now, back to the dream…

Till the day I lose my last bet, and I trundle off to the big bookies in the sky, I will never EVER stop trying to win the National.

It drives me on every day and it’s still what I dream of every night.

My Mum has long gone, sadly, but I know she believes me (and you should to).. I will walk down OUR road a GRAND NATIONAL winner.

You may say I’m a dreamer but I’m not the only one…. IMAGINE that!!!

GINGE ARMY!!!!

Sunday Service

After a dreadful day yesterday by our standards, I hold my hands up and I got it wrong, although, I don’t think too many would have picked Splash of Ginge, if you did… Well played! So after a thorough look at the cards, here is what we have….

Peoples Nap Choices –

Fairyhouse – Soft to Heavy

1.40- Novice Chase – Grade 2 Class 1 – 2m 6f 140y

Presenting Percy -Pertemps Hurdle winner last season, who started chase life with a very impressive 3 length victory at Galway, on heavy ground over 2m 6f & can only improve – 1/1

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Cheltenham – Soft

2.25 – Cheltenham Chase – Grade 2 Class 1 – 1m 7f 199y

Fox Norton – Last season Melling and Champion Chase winner, who was also runner up to Special Tiara in the Queen Mother Champion Chase. Won this race last season & makes season return- 1/1

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3.30 – Supreme Trial Novice Hurdle – Grade 2 Class 1 – 2m 87y

Dame De Compagnie – Runner up on hurdle debut in France to Duca De Thaix(who is now with Gordon Elliott). Won on UK hurdle debut over 2m at Uttoxeter, in a class 4 maiden hurdle , with a hands and heels ride to win comfortably by 1 & 3/4 lengths, with the front pair 4 lengths clear of the rest- 11/10

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PN Result(Saturday) – Irish Roe – 2nd…….

Charlie will now take you through your runners & Results, the last Cheltenham H2H before I will see you for Final Word –

Cheers Rich, let’s kick things off with a look at Saturday’s Results :

Premier Bond -Was pulled up and therefore it was a loss.

Follow The Bear –was 7th and was another loss.

TheInval -Fell and was yet another loss.

.Dissapointed with Saturday’s results but that’s jumps racing for you, sometimes races don’t go out way but that’s the reason we keep trying to find winners. Selections for Sunday are listed below.

Sunday’s Selections

Easter In Paris -Won at Hereford over 2m 4f back in March, was then a fair 2nd here in April over 2m 3f although both runs were over fences, has been absent since and could make a bold bid if race ready in this hurdles race and looks overpriced at 17-2

Wylde Magic -Has placed 3rd in last 3 races including at Sandown over 2m 3f and then at Chepstow over 2m 7f back in October. Drop in trip to 2m 5f should suit and can go well here and at 9-1 is a fair price.

Cheltenham H2H – 3.00- Greatwood Handicap Hurdle – Grade 3 Class 1 – 2m 87y

RICH – The New One – Although having to give weight away to the field, with 6 Grade 2 Wins to his name, The New One is a huge price 16/1 in places when writing this, as he tends to win when outside of Grade 1 company. With a win to his name already this season, having won the Welsh Champion Hurdle by 3/4’s of a length last month from Clyne, they were 16 lengths clear of the great Sire De Grugy & 5th place Ozzie the Oscar, has since won on chase debut.

CHARLIE –Jenkins -Has 3 wins and a 2nd from last 5 runs, latest victory came at Ffos Las over 1m 7f. Nicky has hinted that Jenkins is in rude health and although steps up in class here can cope with the job in hand, would be no surprise if Jenkins takes this race on his way to bigger things this season.

Final Word –

It was a really breath taking performance from Apple’s Shakira yesterday & surely has to be one of the Fav’s for the Triumph at the festival in March, while that was fantastic, you have to feel a bit for Ruby Walsh, who on his comeback from Injury, fell 3 times in 4 race’s and with the final fall, he suffered a broken leg, which could keep him out for at least 5 months. But what a great story Splash of Ginge is… For those who have not read it, it is on our blog….. Anyway what do I have left for tomorrow??!!

Let’s start at Fontwell, as there is other NH racing you know…. Thounder(12.55) is unbeaten in 2 class 4, 2m hurdles and goes looking for the hatrick, has a 10Lb claimer on board but still has to give weight to the field…… Over at Cork….. Granny Biddy(1.55) is another looking for 3 on the bounce, having won the last 2 races by a combined margin of 13 Lengths, 8 last time out over C/D, but with 4 wins in the last 5 runs, is clearly thriving.  While we are on the subject of Irish horse’s, Vocarium(4.00) at Cheltenham has been runner up in the last 2 runs, both in NH Flat races over in Ireland, beaten 1 & 1/2 lengths by Anisi Va La Vie at Galway in August, who has since won a Listed NH flat race.

Let’s head back to Fairyhouse now to end Final Word and Henry De Bromhead, has Calino D’airy(1.05) in the Grade 2 Novice Chase, Calino is two from two in this sphere, won by 3 lengths on debut at Galway before following up at the same course 19 days later by 2 & 3/4 lengths and could out run the price. That is all before the big race of the day, Morgiana(2.15) where Willie Mullins has Faugheen(The Machine) and Vroum Vroum Mag making their seasonal return, with Paul Townend taking the ride on Faugheen, due to Ruby Walsh’s injury. Danny Mullins is on Swamp Fox…. So I guess you would have to think that Istabraq winner Jezki, who is race fit form that win in Tipperary and was once rated 169, during those battle’s with the retired Hurricane Fly,who is now rated 155 and could be the answer to this puzzle….. What ever way you go… Good Luck!

That’s all for today folks… Thanks for your support.

Remember to only bet what you can afford, if not just watch

All the Best – Charlie & Rich