Welcome to Arseonlineracing. This website is 100% independent & has NO affiliate links. It has been curated by 2 racing enthusiasts from either end of the British Isles ( Yes we were socially distanced before it was in fashion). Charlie hails from Glasgow while Rich is from the Isle of Wight. We are miles apart but united by our passion for racing……
The weather has taken a turn for the worst and with the clocks going back an hour last weekend it can only mean one thing….. The return of the Low Sun & the National Hunt season. So with the forecast decidedly sketchy and the news still the same regarding spectators on race courses, turn on the TV, make a brew & settle down to see some decidedly fantastic Jumps racing….
Next weekend we will publish our Breeders Cup blog, along with our normal Saturday edition & Tomorrow (Sunday) see’s the RETURN of the BIG Interview, 7pm so don’t be late!
Charlie will lead us up & hopefully Rich will put the blog to bed with his Final Word, so lets get cracking…..
Charlie –
Ascot
1.55 – Ibleo – 7yr old gelding out of Dick Turpin and Mahendra, has won 2 chases from 3 contested, finished 2nd in the other. Chase wins have came at Wincanton when beating Jaytrack Parkhomes by 4 lengths over 1m 7f and 149y on the 30th January this year. Next race was at Huntingdon in the 20th February when beating Fanzio by 9 and 1/2 lengths over 2m 104y in a Class 4 Handicap Chase on heavy going. Was then sent to Huntingdon again on the 1st March when beaten 4 and 3/4 lengths by Canelo over 2m 3f and 189y again on heavy going. Should have more to offer and has had time to recover from that last run back in March, Venetia Williams has won this race with reappearance runners in 2013 and 2015 and bids to make it 3 times with Ibleo today.
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Wetherby
2.45 – Lisnagar Oscar -7yr old gelding out of Oscar and Asta Belle, won at Cheltenham in the Grade 1 Stayers Hurdle when last seen on the 12th March this year, when beating Ronald Pump by 2 lengths over 2m 7f and 213y on soft ground. If repeating that run today that should be enough to land this race that looks way easier in comparison, main danger comes in the shape of Roksana who was without a win last year and Wholestone who won over 3m at Cheltenham when last seen back in November last year.
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3.55 – Do Wanna Know – 6 yr old gelding out of Frammassone and Mille Et Une Nuits. Has only had 4 races, starting with a 2nd place finish behind Longhouse Poet at Boulta on the 20th January last year. Was then sent to Huntingdon on the 3rd November last year and beat Hurricane Harvey by 1/2 length over 2m 3f 137y. Next race was at Newbury and Do Wanna Know fell when in the lead on the 29th November last year. Was sent to Catterick for latest run on the 25th February this year and beat Wonderful Woman by 4 and 3/4 lengths, there was only the 2 runners in that race and Do Wanna Know was never put under pressure. Main danger comes in the shape of the Jonjo O’Neil trained Arrivederci who won at Wincanton on the 4th of January this year.
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Well that’s my thoughts on today’s selections, good luck if following and please remember to keep stakes small so it doesn’t hurt your pockets, I will now hand you back over to Rich for the Final Word.
Final Word with Rich….
I have 3 for you today 2 from Ascot (Good to Soft) & 1 from Down Royal (NI) Yielding to Soft.
Amoola Gold – Mamool x Aughamche 7yo gelding. Won on Chase debut last November in a 2m Newbury Class 3 Chase from a mark of 117 & was winless until making seasonal return at Wetherby on October 11th in a 1m 7f Class 3 Handicap Chase from 127. Raised 5 for the 1 length win & up in trip & grade today..
Valtor – Ut*nidor xJossca 11yo gelding. A winner over C&D on UK debut back in December 2018 in a Class 1 Listed Chase. Won again on season return last November at this course in a 2m5f 141yds Class 2 Novice Hurdle by 2 lengths. Was last seen on February 18th, finishing an 8 & 1/2 length runner up to Ballyoptic over 2m 7f 180yds in the Listed Swinley Chase at this course from a mark of 150 & makes seasonal return today from the same mark..
Down Royal (NI) –
1.15 Ballyadam – Jamie’s National Hunt horse to follow.
Wolf Prince – Pour Moi x Preach 4yo gelding. A maiden on the flat for Amy Murphy prior to joining Gavin Cromwell in November 2019. Finished 3rd on hurdle debut over 2m to Aspire Tower, which was followed by 2 wins over 2m & 2 places before finishing 2nd to A Wave Of The Sea in a Leopardstown Grade 1 2m Hurdle by 1 & 1/4 lengths back in February. Has had a run on the flat, when finishing 3rd by 2 & 1/4 lengths in a1m 6f Handicap & will come on for the run…
That is everything for you today folks…. Thanks for popping by & for your continued support, we really appreciate it.. Keep your eyes peeled for the BIG Interview, tomorrow 7pm!
Welcome to Arseonlineracing. We are 100% Independent & have NO affiliate links. This website is curated by 2 racing enthusiasts from either end of the British Isles, Charlie hails from Glasgow while Rich is from the Isle of Wight…. Miles apart (Socially distancing at it’s best) but united in the sport of kings…..
Here we are, the end of the Flat season, today we crown the Champion Jockeys, both professional & apprentice & we send our congratulations in advance. We would also like to congratulate Hollie Doyle. who has broken her own record for the most wins in a season for a female jockey. Hollie is a fantastic jockey in her own right & deserves every plaudit that comes her way & it is richly deserved. It won’t be long before she is the Champion Jockey!
Stradivarius courtesy of Sporting Life
We are delighted to have Jamie & Chris Price back with us today, so it is a veritable full house with Charlie & Rich in attendance too… So let’s get cracking!
The going at Ascot is ( Not Allowed )
Charlie – Market Rasen
2.46 – Hooper – Out of Rip Van Winkle and Earth Amber – has had just the 2 runs so far beginning with a 6th place finish at Huntingdon behind winner Ocean Wind in a National Hunt flat race over 1m 5f and 148y on the 12th November last year. Was off track for 10 months and had wind op before making reappearance at Stratford on the 5th September this year, in another National Hunt Flat race over 2m and 70y. Hooper won beating Luttrell Lad by 2 lengths with Stratton Oakmont a further 8 lengths adrift in 3rd. Hooper is making hurdles debut for Nicky Henderson and is in good hands, has Nico doing the steering and should make a good hurdler, hopefully today’s race is a successful one with bigger targets further down the line. Main danger comes in the shape of Copperless who finished 2nd over hurdles at Perth last time out.
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3.21 – Palladium -Won at Sandown on the 4th January this year when beating Brambledown by 11 lengths over 1m 7f and 216y. Returned to Sandown on the 1st February to race in the Betway Novices Hurdle over 1m 7f and 216y and won again beating Flic Ou VoYou by 10 lengths with The Newest One a further 18 lengths adrift in 3rd. Was sent to Cheltenham in March to run in the Fred Winter and was pulled up, that could be forgiven as had been in good shape prior to that race at Cheltenham and is taken to get back in the winners enclosure.
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4.31– Red Risk – Was 3rd at Hereford on the 3rd of January behind winner Dame Du Soir over 2m 8y. Was then sent to Ludlow on the 27th February and won beating Golden Whisky by 11 lengths with Truckin Away a further 1 and 1/4 length adrift in 3rd, that was over 2m 4f 11y. Is now 9lbs heavier and although that seems excessive still can’t be discounted as Nicholls has a knack of getting the best out of his runner’s, biggest threat comes in the shape of Court Master who also won last time out.
Chris –
1.20 Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup
All eyes will be on Stradivarius in the opener, the triple Gold cup winner is the clear pick on ratings, but has been beaten in this race twice before and this year arrives here after a trip to Paris just 13 days ago. I’ll go for one at a slightly bigger price in FUJAIRA PRINCE. Winner of a soft ground Ebor before a solid 2nd in the Irish St Leger last time out on good ground. With conditions expected to be much different here I’m willing to chance that the form with Search For A Song can be reversed. Fujaira Prince looks a solid each-way bet at the current prices.
1.55 Qipco British Champions Sprint
Just like the previous race, I’ll be avoiding the favourite who’s suffered 2 defeats in this contest and taking a chance on another. GLEN SHIEL has been very consistent having dropped down to sprint trips over the summer, winning 3 races and then finishing runner-up in the Sprint Cup at the top table. Conditions will be fine and could go close at a double figure price, especially with some bookies paying extra places due to the big field. For those wanting an even bigger price, SONAILYA finished just behind the selection at the Curragh before a 3rd over the minimum trip in the flying Five, this filly may not be far away and outrun her big odds.
2.30 Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares
WONDERFUL TONIGHT has always been held in high regard by trainer David Menuisier, and duly landed a maiden Group 1 a fortnight ago at Longchamp over 14f.This mud lover looks to have outstanding claims here with several of her rivals either unproven on the ground, or at Group 1 level. William Buick picks up the ride and it will take a good one to beat her here, providing that the race in France hasn’t left its mark.
3.40 Qipco Champion Stakes
MAGICAL needs little introduction having won 7 Group 1’s during a glittering career, a tremendous record considering she has been running into Enable on several occasions. She reversed the form with Ghaiyyath last time out during a cracking renewal of the Irish Champion, and must take all the beating as she aims to win at this meeting for the 3rd consecutive year. Magical faces some stiff competition here, and gives 1lb to Mishriff, who rates the main danger, but i can’t get away from the Galileo mare if it comes down to a battle up the straight.
4.15 Balmoral Handicap
This competitive handicap or the ‘getting out’ stakes is the traditional end to the meeting, I go with ORBAAN to land the spoils here. A winner at York this summer, before a fair 4th over course and distance last month, where the front pair had raced handy and went clear off a slow pace. This son of Invincible Spirit will need luck and fair gallop today, but should be running on in the closing stages. Ascot lover RAISING SAND is another who could go close at a double figure price and looks to have been laid out for the race, with Saffie Osbourne taking off a valuable 7lb.
Jamie –
1:55 – Qipco British Champions Sprint – Selection: One Master A red hot renewal of the Champions Sprint headed by Dream Of Dreams who has excellent course & distance form. Despite that though I am going to take him on with the very likeable One Master, who is looking to go one better than last year. You can always rely on One Master to give you a good run for your money with form figures this season reading 641221. Pierre – Charles Boudet is once again booked for this mare and his remarkable run of big race success continued with an Arc day double, the double being clinched with a third Prix de la Foret victory for One Master. The mare is in good health and the stiff 6F at Ascot will play to her strengths. With a big field there should be plenty of pace on as she likes to come from just off the pace. I would have to rate her as my nap of the day. Solid looking chance.
3:05 – Queen Elizabeth II Stakes – Selection: Lord Glitters (E/W) 14 go to post for the QEII with many seeing Palace Pier as the ‘banker’ of the day. I would be of the same opinion so I will look for a tasty each way punt. Lord Glitters seems to be building up towards a huge run and ground providing always goes well at Ascot over the straight mile. With the ground continuing to dry towards good to soft, on form he has a chance. So far this season it has been steady eddy with Lord Glitters, fourth behind Mohaather (Btn 4 3/4l) on his 2020 bow was a great effort. That was followed by solid results at York with two third places. Last time out though he ran very well finishing just behind Champion Stakes contender Addeybb at Ayr, that performance will have put him spot on for this tough assignment. I have a sneaky suspicion that David O’Meara has had this race in mind for Lord Glitters for a long time and will be in peak form. He has some very smart form against top class horses in the past and if the grey could recapture that form then he could snick a place at big odds.
3:40 – Qipco British Champion Stakes – Selection: Magical A race befitting of its name as 7 Group 1 winners go to post looking to land the big pot. While Magical faces a tough task today I still fancy Ballydoyle’s star mare to retain her Champion Stakes crown. She has been better than ever this season and she will need to be today as I rate Mishriff, Addeybb and the Derby winner Serpentine as big dangers. The form of her Irish Champion Stakes victory last time out has to be the best in the field. They went an all Ireland gallop as she shadowed and beat Ghayyaith, the highest rated horse in the world in a war of attrition; Sottsass finished fourth that day before going on to land the Arc de Triomphe three weeks later. It was a career best performance from the Galileo mare who digs very, very deep when she needs to. We know that she handles the Ascot track well and the ground is fine for her. If she runs up to that Leopardstown form then it will take a very good one to beat her.
Final Word with Rich –
I have 3 for you from Ascot….
1.20 Long Distance Cup – Group 2 – 1m 8f…..
Stradivarius – Sea the Stars x Private Life 6yo Horse. His last 2 runs have been over 1m 4f in the Arc & Prix Foy, finishing 7th (6 & 3/4 lengths) behind Sottsaas in the Arc on October 4th & a short head runner up to Anthony Van Dyck in Prix Foy (Sept 13th) having previously recorded 2 wins in the 2m Goodwood Cup & Gold Cup here at Royal Ascot over 2m 4f, beating Nayef Road by 1 length & 10 lengths respectively. He has run in this race 3 times, winning once. He was 3rd to Big Orange in 2017, winner in 2018 & runner up last year to Kew Gardens by a nose. That said, he is 3 from 4 on soft ground & back up in trip. The top rated horse in the race at 125 & should be hard to beat. At the BIGGER prices I like Fujaria Prince – Pivital x Zam Zoom 6yo gelding, who was 2nd last time out in the Irish St Leger (1m 6f) by 2 lengths to Search for a Song and steps up in trip today. He won a pair of Class 2 Handicaps over 1m 6f here in June & York in August…..
1.55 Sprint Stakes – Group 1 – 3yo Plus – 6f…..
Starman – Dutch Art x Northern Star 3yo Colt. Unbeaten in 3 starts. A debut win at Lingfield over 6f in a Class 5 Maiden in July by a neck before landing a 6f Class 5 Novice Stakes at Doncaster in August. He took a huge step forward when stepping up in Grade at York on September 6th when landing the 6f Class 1 Garrowby Stakes from Dakota Gold by 1 & 3/4 lengths….
3.40 Champion Stakes – Group 1 – 3yo Plus – 1m 2f….
Magical – Galileo x Halfway to Heaven 5yo Mare. Won this race last season by 3/4’s of a length from Addeybb. Started this season in fine form, winning her first 2 starts at the Curragh, both over 1m 2f before Ghaiyyath beat her by 3 lengths in the Group 1 1m 2f International at York in August. Magical reversed the form with Ghaiyyath in the 1m 2f Irish Champion Stakes on September 12th by 3/4’s of length & she is the best mare around today. The DANGER’S are likely to come from Mishriff, who has won 3 on the trot including the Prix Du Jockey Club & Prix Guillaume, on heavy ground. Pyledriver, who was 3rd in the St Leger at Doncaster & drops back in trip & Derby winner Serpentine….
A big thanks to everyone who contributed towards the Twitter National Hunt Horses to Follow…..
And thanks to everyone for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it….
Welcome to Arseonlineracing. This website is 100% independent & has NO affiliate links. The website is curated by 2 racing enthusiasts from either end of the British Isles, with Charlie hailing from Glasgow while Rich is from the Isle of Wight… Miles apart but united by the sport of kings….
Yesterday was a bit of anus horriblius all round, with 0 places or wins from Rich’s 4! If it was an exam he would have failed! Luckily it wasn’t & we can go again…. Charlie returns today & so does the National Hunt season, kicking off yesterday at Chepstow & it continues today along with the Future Champions weekend at Newmarket…. And next Saturday we will be joined by Jamie & Chris for Champions day at Ascot…. But back to today & Charlie will take the NH at Chepstow while Rich will have 3 from Newmarket!
Charlie – Chepstow (Good)
3.57 – Wasdell Group Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3) over 2m 3f 100y
Fix Sun – 5yr old gelding out of Al Namix and Quelly Bruere, has ran on 5 occasions although only 3 of those were on UK soil. Started career off with a 1/2 length 2nd place finish to Forceur De Vif over 1m 6f at Argentan on the 28th September 2018. Was sent to Paray Le Monial for next run and won beating Fingal d’Arthel by 2 lengths over 1m 4f. Changed yards from P Journiac to Nicky Henderson before making UK debut a winning one at Sedgefield when beating See The Sea by 12 lengths on the 14th May over 2m 178y. Was sent to Market Rasen on the 16th January for next run stepping up in distance to 2m 2f and 140y and won again, beating Shesoon Sunny by 4 and 1/2 lengths. Next race saw Fix Sun stepping up in distance again at Fakenham to 2m 4f and 1y on the 14th February and finished a 1/2 length 2nd to Fraternal. Has been in fantastic form since switching yards to Nicky Henderson and has undergone wind surgery since that 2nd placed finish at Fakenham in February. Having had plenty of time to recover should take another step forward today and would be no surprise if getting back into the winners enclosure.
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4.32 – John Ayers Memorial Handicap Chase (Class 2) over 2m 3f 98y
Casablanca Mix – 8 yr old Mare out of Shirocco and Lattitude, has had 25 career starts winning 9 of those. Won 3 of last 4 runs in 2019 beginning with a 1 and 1/2 length victory over Indian Temple at Aintree over 2m 3f and 200y on the 17th May. Was sent to Market Rasen on the 20th July to race in the Betway Summer Plate a Listed Race over 2m 5f and 89y and won again beating Royal Village by 8 lengths. Next race was at Aintree on the 7th December, when racing in the Class 1 Listed Houghton Mares Chase over 2m 3f and 200y where Casablanca Mix won again beating Holly Flight by 15 lengths. More recently was beaten 28 lengths in 4th place behind winner Lady Buttons at Doncaster on the 29th December in the Class 1 Listed Yorkshire Silver Vase Mares Chase over 2m 4f and 115y. Makes seasonal return today and if showing up in same form shown last year should be in the mix here in a very open looking race.
Final Word with Rich – Newmarket (Soft)
2.20 Autumn Stakes – Group 3 – 2yo Only – 1m….
Maximal – Galileo x Joyeuse Colt. Finished 2nd by a nose on race course debut over 7f in a Class 5 Novice Stakes back in July, was runner up again in another Class 5, this time a 7f Sandown Maiden, beaten 1 & 1/2 lengths in August before stepping up to 1m on September 11th, again at Sandown in a Class 4 Novice Stakes. Maximal landed the short odds (2/7) with a 5 length win. Steps up in class today & is defiantly one to add to the tracker for next season, when we will see the best of him over 1m 2f…..
2.55 Dewhurst Stakes – Group 1 – 2yo Only – 7f….
Chindit – Wootton Bassett x Always a Dreamer Colt. 3 from 3 this season, all over 7f…. Landed a Doncaster Class 5 Maiden by 1 & 3/4 lengths on debut on July 5th before beating Cobh in the Class 1 Pat Eddery Listed Stakes at Ascot on July 25th by 1 & 3/4 lengths & made it 3 from 3 when winning the Group 2 Champagne Stakes at Doncaster on September 12th… BIG DANGER is Irish raider Thunder Moon, who is 2 from2 & landed the Group 1 National Stakes at the curragh on September 19th by 1 & 1/2 lengths….
4.50 Darley Stakes – Group 3 – 3yo Plus – 1m 1f…
Darain – Dubawi x Dar Re Mi 3yo Colt. A winner by 4 & 3/4 lengths on race course debut over 1m 2f in a Class 5 Newbury Novice Stakes on July 18th before making it 2 form 2 here on the July course in a 1m 2f Class 5 Novice Stakes by 2 & 1/4 on July 24th. Stepped up to Group company & 1m 4f in the Group 2 Great Voltieur finishing a 7 & 1/4 lengths 5th to Pyledriver ( 3rd in St Leger) and the race has thrown up some nice winners since – French Group 1 winner Mogul, Group 3 winner Subjectivist & Listed winner Berkshire Rocco….
I have followed these 3 all season….
That is everything for you today folks…. Thanks for popping by…
Hello and welcome to Arseonlineracing. This website is 100% independent & has NO affiliate links. The website is curated by 2 racing enthusiasts from either end of the British Isles, Charlie hails from Glasgow while Rich is from the Isle of Wight….. Miles apart but united by the sport of kings…
What a fantastic day on Sunday over in Paris, it wasn’t the result we all wanted with Enable finishing outside the top 3 but the main thing is that ALL the horses returned safe & sound. Congratulations to Sottsass on winning the Prix De L’Arc De Triomphe & enjoy your retirement…. We also had a good day with our Arc blog, with 4 winners, we have given the guys some time off & you will have to make do with just Rich today!
It’s future champions weekend at Newmarket & it is also the start of the winter national hunt season at Chepstow, with all things being well, we should have our thoughts from both cards on Saturday but for today it’s just Newmarket….
The going at Newmarket is…… Soft
1.50 Cornwallis Stakes – Group 3 – 2yo Only – 5f
Bahrain Pride – Kodiac x Life of Pi Colt.
Winner on debut by 3/4’s of a length in a Windsor 6f Class 5 maiden on August 17th on soft ground before making it 2 from 2 at Ripon on August 31st by 1 & 3/4 lengths in the 6f Listed Champion 2yo Trophy Stakes from International Dream, again on soft ground. Stepped up to Group 2 company at Newbury on September 19th in the 6f Mill Reef Stakes, finishing a 4 & 1/2 length 5th of 8 on good ground. Drops to 5f & back on soft ground….
2.25 – Oh So Sharp Stakes ( Fillies’) Group 3 – 2yo Only – 7f...
Thinking of you – American Pharaoh x Fabulous
Landed a Limerick 6 & 1/2f maiden on debut( September 15th) on soft ground by 1/2 a length before stepping up to Group 3 level in the 7f Weld Park Stakes at the Curragh, finishing 3rd by 2 & 1/4 lengths to Elysium….
3.00 Challenge Stakes – Group 2 – 3yo Plus – 7f….
Daahyeh – Bated Breath x Affluent Filly
Rated 110 & carries just 8s 12Lb the lowest in the race, due to her fillies’ allowance & for being a 3yo. Makes seasonal return. Last seen finishing 2nd in the 1m Breeders Cup Fillies Turf at Santa Anita in November, beaten by 1 & 1/4 lengths. Runner up to Love in the Group 1 7f Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh on September 15th 2019 before landing the Group 2 Rockfel Stakes (Fillies’) over C&D on September 27th 2019.
3.35 – Fillies’ Mile – Group 1 – 2yo Only – 1m…
Shale – Galileo x Homecoming Queen
Finished 6th on debut at Leopardstown over 7f back in June but made no mistake on her second outing in July, on soft/heavy ground at Gowran by 3 & 1/4 lengths. Stepped up to Group 3 company in the 7f Group 3 Silver Flash Stakes on August 6th from Pretty Gorgeous by 1 & 1/2 lengths. The form was reversed on August 22nd in the 7f Group 2 Debutante ( Fillies’) Stakes at The Curragh before the pair met again in the Group 1 7f Moyglare ( Fillies’) Stud Stakes again at The Curragh, winning by 3/4’s of a length….
4.10 – Old Rowley Cup Handicap ( Heritage) – Class 2 – 3yo Only – 1m 4f…
Brilliant Light – Sea the Stars x Flame of Gibraltar Gelding.
Made debut on July 8th in a 1m 2f Class 5 Newbury Novice Stakes, finishing a 4 & 3/4 lengths 2nd to Darain. Won (Just) on second start on the all weather at Wolverhampton when stepping up to 1m 4f in a Class 5 Novice Stakes by a neck from Crystal Pegasus before making it 2 wins from 3 starts in a Sandown 1m 2f Class 3 Handicap, from an opening mark of 88, winning by a short head. Runs today from 93….
That is everything for you today folks, thanks for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it…
Hello & welcome to Arseonlineracing’s coverage of Arc day from Paris Longchamp. This website is 100% independent & has NO affiliate links. Curated by 2 racing enthusiasts from either end of the British Isles, Charlie hails from Glasgow while Rich is from the Isle of Wight…. Miles apart but united by the sport of kings…
A big day ahead in Paris, where we could see Enable make history by winning her 3rd L’Arc De Triomphe or will it be front running Derby winner Serpentine or even multiple Group 1 winning stayer Stradivarius? We will see soon enough!
Paris – Longchamp
Today we welcome back Jamie & Chris, who join Charlie & Rich to give you our thoughts on the card from Longchamp & we are really excited to see how the day unfolds. Charlie will as always lead the way, Jamie & Chris in the midfield with Rich having the Final Word, so buckle up for what will be a fantastic afternoon’s racing……
The going at Longchamp is….. Heavy
Enable Winning Her 2nd Arc De Triomphe
Charlie –
1.15 – Qatar Prix Marcel Busaq Group 1 for 2yr old Fillies over 7f 209y
Fev Rover – Out of Gutaifan and Laurelita has had 4 career starts so far, finishing 2nd on first two outings at Doncaster and Newmarket respectively before making a winning start at Sandown on the 21st July this year when beating Dubai Fountain by 1 length in the Class 1 listed Irish Stallion Farms EBF Star Stakes over 7f. Next race saw Fev Rover win again at Deauville in the Group 2 Shadwell Prix Du Calvados on the 22nd August when beating Plainchant by a neck over 7f. That form has been boosted since with 2nd placed Plainchant winning the Group 3 Prix Eclipse at Chantilly on the 18th of September. If repeating form shown on last 2 starts should go in again here.
3.50 – Prix De L’Opera Longines Group 1 for 3yr old Fillies and Mares over 1m 2f
Tawkeel – Out of Teofilo and Rafaadha, has ran 5 times and remains unbeaten so far. The wins began at Pau on the 3rd of January when beating Hur Cat by 1 and 1/4 lengths over 1m . Another all-weather jaunt at Cagnes Sur Mer this time was next on the list as Tawkeel beat Villa Royale by 4 and 1/2 lengths on the 22nd February. Was sent to Deauville for next run in the Prix De Lormoy on the 24th May to race over 1m 1f 110y and won again beating Wangari by a head, with those 2 a staggering 10 length ahead of 3rd placed La Norma. Was sent out on turf for 1st time for next start at Chantilly on the 14th June, in the Group 1 Saint Alary and won again beating Magic Attitude by 5 lengths with Solsticia a head behind in 3rd. Latest race was on the 22nd August at Deauville in Group 2 Prix de la Nonette over 1m 2f on turf, when Tawkeel extended her unbeaten run to 5 wins from 5 starts at the expense of Tickle Me Green who finished a 1/2 length 2nd with Alkandora 3/4 of a length back in 3rd place. Tawkeel just seems to find more when asked In each run so far and although this is more difficult, she does seem to have that class that gets her out of trouble and could be in the thick of it again if showing same attitude here.
4.25 – Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp Longines Group 1 for 2yr old’s over 5f
Glass Slippers – Out of Dream Ahead and Night Gypsy. Has had just 3 starts since winning this race last year when beating So Perfect by 3 lengths. This season began with a 5th place finish behind winner Battash at Ascot on the 16th June in the Group 1 Kings Stand Stakes over 5f. Was sent to Goodwood for next start in the Group 2 King George Qatar Stakes over 5f and finished a 2 and 1/4 length 2nd to Battash with Ornate a neck behind in 3rd. Was shipped over to Ireland for next start at the Curragh on the 13th of September, to race in the Group 1 Derrinstown Stud Flying Five Stakes over 5f and Glass Slippers won beating Keep Busy by a 1/2 length with Sonaiyla a further 1/2 length behind in 3rd. If showing same attitude as last time out could easily win again here especially when winning this race last season.
Jamie –
3:05 – Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe – Selection: Stradivarius The world’s premier flat race and the eagerly awaited attempt of Enable’s bid for history. Very soft ground may well take it’s toll on most of the field and it will take some winning. I would love to see Enable do it, however I fear on this ground that her stablemate and superstar stayer Stradivarius will power through the Parisian mud and claim the biggest win of his career. The triple Gold Cup victor at Royal Ascot doesn’t mind soft ground and his supporters will be very happy with all the rain that has been dropping in Paris this week. I expect to see Oliver Peslier up on the pace with Stradivarius and make use of his stamina. He trialled well in the Prix Foy three weeks ago when they went a doddle and it turned into a 400m sprint. Finishing a close second that day really caught my eye. He can get a nice tow into the race from Sovereign and then it will be case of whether he has the speed to see them off until the petrol tanks begin to run empty. This race is going to something special, ladies and gentlemen. Enjoy…
3:50 – Qatar Prix de l’Opera – Selection: Tarnawa (NAP) This is a cracking renewal of this Group 1 for the Fillies and Mares over 10 furlongs. The top five in the market are all group 1 winners, with the Prix Diane first, second & fourth clashing with recent Prix Vermeille winner Tarnawa and Deauville scorer Audarya. It won’t be easy to give weight away to those top-class three-year olds, but I fancy Tarnawa to do it for the Aga Khan, Dermot Weld and Cristophe Soumilion. The manner of her Vermeille victory over two furlongs more than today’s contest was very impressive and was a sign of a Mare in rude health. She travels into her races very well. The only concern would the underfoot conditions, Tarnawa is 0/2 on soft ground but I think she is a much-improved Mare this year and if the ground does dry out a bit then she would have to be in the mix. Her assured stamina could come into play late on as her rivals at the head of market have never raced over 10 furlongs on very soft ground. It will take a career best performance to win a race of this quality but Tarnawa has been primed for an Autumn campaign.
4:25 – Qatar Prix de L’Abbeye – Selection: Keep Busy This doesn’t look a vintage Abbeye with a couple of big names, notably Battaash ruled out because of the soft ground. The first and second from the Flying Five at the Curragh meet again and I fancy Keep Busy to overturn the form with reigning Champion Glass Slippers. John Quinn’s charge is improving a few pounds with each run and has form on soft / heavy ground having won a listed race at Chantilly last year on heavy. The assistance of Ryan Moore is a big plus and with no other rides on the card he will be very determined to try and snag this Group 1. The race could set up well for Keep Busy as there looks to be a bit of pace on up front. I expect Keep Busy on this ground to put up a bold show.
Chris –
1.50 Prix Marcel Boussac – Fev Rover caught my eye with a gutsy win on testing ground at Deauville in the Prix du Calvados. The form of that race has been boosted since with the 2nd gaining Group 3 honours next time out. Another step forward required here but this seems to have been the plan and should run her race.
4.25 Prix de l’Abbaye – Keep Busy arrives here after a career best 2nd to Glass Slippers in the Flying Five last month. Whilst more is needed to get her head in front at the top level, a liking to soft ground and the usual allowances could be enough to turn the tables today in what will surely be extremely different conditions. She looks a fine each-way bet at the current prices.
4.55 Prix de la Foret – One Master needs little introduction having won this race on two occasions. Once again the admirable mare has been constantly running to high levels over the course of the year. Heavy ground won’t hinder her compared to some of her rivals and she nearly always produces her best at this time of year.
Final Word with Rich –
Here are my 3 for Longchamp plus a wee thought on the BIG race…
1.15 Prix Jean – Luc Lagardere – 2yo Only – Colts &Fillies’ – 7f….
Sealiway – Galiway x Kensea colt. Rated 102. 3 wins from 5 runs, 2 wins over 6f & 1 over 7f. 3rd over C&D on July 14th, when1 & 3/4 lengths behind winner Kin’s Harlequin in a Listed contest. Won a Vichy 7f Listed Stakes on August 6th by 5 lengths before finishing a 1 length runner up over C&D in the Group 3 Prix la Rochette behind Go Athletic….
1.50 Prix Marcel Boussac (Fillies’) – 2yo Only – Group 1 – 1m….
Tiger Tanka – Clodovil x Miss Phillyjinks. Rated 104. Winner of a 2yo Claimer on debut (6f) at Lyon on heavy ground by 1 length & changed stables. Won 3 on the bounce at Marseille, 2 over 7 & 1/2f on AW & a 1m turf race by 2 & 1/2 lengths on July 8th. Finished a 3/4’s of a length 3rd to Ventura Tormenta on July 19th at Chantilly in the 6f Group 2 Prix Robert Papin but soon returned to winning ways on August 16th at Deauville, when landing the 7f Group 3 Prix Francois Boutin by 2 lengths.
Arc Thoughts – I love Enable, she for me, is the greatest mare of the past 20 years in British racing & I am also a big fan of Stradivarius, so if either of these win I will be delighted, more so for Frankie & Enable. I cannot discount Ballydoyle to throw a spanner in the works either! Sottsass placed in this last season & is an interesting contender as is Persian King, who is up in trip. The young guns with the weight advantage catch the eye too, with Raabihah, Serpentine, Mogul & German raider In Swoop…. It will be a good race & Serpentine likely to go forward, Frankie will have learned from last season & Enable, should be good enough to win!
3.50 Prix L’opera(Fillies’ & Mares’) – Group 1 – 3yo Plus – 1m 2f….
Tawkeel – Teofilo x Rafaadah 3yo Filly. Rated 114. 5 wins from 5 starts. 2 x 1m, 1 x9 & 1/2f & 2 wins over 1m 2f. 3 from 3 on AW & 2 from 2 on Turf. 3 AW wins over 1m in Jan, Feb & May. Turf debut when stepping up to 1m 2f on June 14th at Chantilly in the Group 1 Prix Saint Alary (Fillies’ 3yo) winning by a head on good to soft ground beating Magic Attitude. Landed the 1m 2f Group 2 Prix de la Nonette (3yo Fillies’) on August 22nd at Deauville on very soft ground when beating Mr Tickle by 1/2 a length….
That is everything for you today folks. Thank you for your support & for popping by today, we really appreciate it…. Stay safe.
Thanks to Jamie & Chris for their contributions today & we look forward to working with them on Champions Day & Breeders Cup weekend.
arseonlineracing 