Welcome to Arseonlineracing’s coverage of the Punchestown Festival. This website is 100% independent & has NO affiliate links…
Its been a fantastic few days of racing this week, along with Ascot yesterday & plenty more to come this week.. A bit of house keeping from Wednesday.. Rich – Danilova (Unplaced) & Supremacy (Unplaced) Jamie – Vanillier (Unplaced) & Clan Des Obeaux (Won)
With that out of the way, Chris & Jamie have the Festival covered today with Rich having a day off & will return on Saturday for the Guineas!
The going at Punchestown is…. Good to Yielding.
Chris –
5.25pmLadbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle
Flooring Porter has made giant strides this season, landing a maiden Grade 1 at the Dublin Racing Festival before winning the Stayers Hurdle at Cheltenham. He has made all over this trip on each occasion and run the finish out of his rivals. He looks versatile regarding ground and I see no reason why he won’t follow up with another Grade 1 here, having already accounted for several of his rivals over recent months.
6.00pm Conway Piling Handicap Hurdle
A typically competitive handicap at this meeting and I’m siding with Capodanno here. He was an eye catcher of mine having ran well to finish 4th on handicap debut at Fairyhouse last time. He may have gone better with a clear jump at the last so a rise of 1lb is fair, especially as that was the first run on better ground. With only 5 starts over timber there is every chance this son of Manduro can go well once more and I’m expecting a good run at a fair price.
Jamie –
4:50 – La Touché Cup Crosse Country Chase – Selection: Alpha Des Obeaux
This is always a race I enjoy watching over the Punchestown banks over the marathon 4m 2f distance. Cheltenham XC third and fourth Some Neck & Alpha Des Obeaux reapose and I fancy Denise Foster’s 11yo to turn around that Cheltenham form. The distance between the two was 1 1/2l and it was Alpha Des Obeaux who was staying on the better. His most recent race came in the Grand National where he performed with credit to complete the course and finish 11th. Back on home soil and on ground that is ideal for him I can see him using his staying power to charge up the home straight. He is a very tough, battle hardened campaigner who enjoys racing over these extreme distances.
A field of 15 going to post means this is the largest field for a Grade 1 this week. Flooring Porter looks the one to side with here as he has taken up the mantle of being the leading staying hurdler in Ireland this season. His season started off well with a good second in a Handicap at Gowran Park off a mark of 131. Then followed rapid progression as Flooring Porter took a big pot at Naas then successfully stepped up to G1 level at Leopardstown at Christmas. He came and conquerered Cheltenham with a strong staying display and powered up the famous hill for a big win in the Stayers Hurdle. His official rating is now 160 and there could well be more to come from the 6yo. That day at Cheltenham he held Beacon Edge, The Storyteller and Fury Road well at bay, I struggle to see how they can turn the form around. The conditions are fine for my selection and he has a lot going for him. Big chance!
That’s everything for you today folks, thanks for popping by & your support, we really appreciate it. STAY SAFE. Bet Responsibly.
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Today we split the blog between Ascot, where it is Royal Ascot trails day & Punchestown, where the Irish National Hunt curtain closer continues. Jamie takes the NH while Rich has the Flat…. The going at Ascot is Good, Good to Firm in Places & Punchestown is (Good to Yielding)
A bit of housekeeping from Tuesday’s blog...
Rich – Echoes in Rain(WON) & Chaucan Pour Soi (WON) Jamie – Gentleman De Mee (UNPLACED) & Chacun Pour Soi (WON)
Rich –
2.10 Fillies’ Conditional Stakes – 3yo Only – Class 3 – 1m… Danilova – Dubawi X Prinessse Dansante filly. Had 3 career runs, all at Newmarket & all 3 over 7f. Finished a 3 & 1/4 length runner up on debut in a Class 4 Fillies’ Maiden in July before returning to Newmarket on August 1st & dropping to Class 5 in Novice Fillies stakes race, beating Senita by 1 & 1/2 lengths. Ran just 7 days after that win, again at Newmarket in the Group 3 Solera Stakes(Fillies’ & Mares’) on August 8th & finished a 6 & 1/4 length 6th of 9, with the race possibly coming a touch too soon. The Godolphin 2nd string in the race with Creative Flair & the pair are both rated 88. Seasonal return & up in trip….
3.20 Pavilion Stakes – Group 3 – 3yo Only – 6f…. Supremacy – Mehmas X Triggers Broom Colt. Top rated 118 & carries a 4lb penalty for winning the 6f Group 1 Middle Park stakes by 1/2 a length from Lucky Vega when last seen on September 26th 2020. Also the winner of the 6f Group 2 Richmond Stakes at Goodwood on July 30th by 4 lengths. Second TR is Method at 106, who was 22 lengths behind Supremacy in the Middle Park…
I fancy Gavin Cromwell’s Vanillier to bring up a Cheltenham – Punchestown Grade 1 double. It was a nice performance at Cheltenham and he galloped them all into submission at Cheltenham including the reaposing Stattler, Streets of Doyen and Torygraph. So, it is hard to imagine the form being turned around. Vanillier looks a real strong stayer and will appreciate the ease in the ground like he got at Cheltenham. Tactically he is versatile and this race could set up well for him, he may well get an easy time out front. Big chance.
5:55 – Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup (G1) – Selection: Clan Des Obeaux
A small but very select field of 6 vie for the highlight of the Punchestown Festival. It’s a real shame that Gold Cup hero Minella Indo is ruled out with a bruised hoof. I reckon it could be a rare victory on Irish soil for a British trained horse. Paul Nicholls sends over recent Aintree Bowl winner Clan Des Obeaux and he holds strong claims. It was a confidence boosting performance at Aintree as he demolished the field and won by 26 lengths in the end. The ground holds no fears and he is a sound jumper, which is key around Punchestown. I think bypassing the Cheltenham Gold Cup will work in Clan Des Obeaux’s favour as it looked a hard race for Al Boum Photo & Kemboy. The stable are in great form and he has every chance against this top quality opposition.
That’s everything for you today folks, thanks for popping by & for your continued support, we really appreciate it. STAY SAFE. Gamble Responsibly.
Welcome to Arseonlineracing’s coverage of the Punchestown Festival, the traditional National Hunt season closer in Ireland… This website is 100% independent with NO affiliate links…
It’s a big week in racing, with the NH closer along with the Guineas meeting at the weekend, both at Newmarket & in France, so we are going to be busy!
Just Jamie & Rich today with Chris joining us later in the week & Charlie back for the weekend…
Jamie –
4:50 – Killashee Hotel Handicap Hurdle – Selection: Gentleman De Mee
The first of many ultra competitive handicaps this week at Punchestown. If you can forgive his tired display at Cheltenham it may well be worth taking a punt on Gentleman De Mee. My Selection here run far too free at Cheltenham and got very weary up the straight and especially up the hill. He was well fancied for the Martin Pipe after a nice win in a Novice Hurdle at Naas. A 6lb drop in the weights gives Gentleman De Mee a chance and if he can settle a lot better then he can go well. The dangers are Magic Tricks and stablemate Jazzaway, who like Gentleman De Mee is unexposed. In a hot race I would advise an each way bet on Gentleman De Mee.
5:25 – William Hill Champion Chase – Selection: Chacun Pour Soi (NAP)
This looks a little cracker of a race with Cheltenham form put under scrutiny. I am going to give Chacun Pour Soi another chance after he was surprisingly beat at Cheltenham, well I thought so anyway. He has been freshened up since then by Willie Mullins and back on home soil he is the worthy favourite over this trip. This is Chacun Pour Soi’s toughest assignment to date in Ireland as he faces brilliant Ryanair Chase winner Allaho and Nube Negra who finished a place ahead of the selection at Cheltenham and looks overpriced on the bare form. I’m personally not sure Allaho has the pace for this. We all know how good Chacun Pour Soi is and if he turns up on his A-game then he will be very tough to beat. Electric jumping is his strong point and the jumping will be crucial to determine the outcome of this contest.
Rich –
4.15 Champion Novice Hurdle – Grade 1 – 2m 110yds.. Echoes in Rain – Authorized X Amarantine 5yo Mare. Winner of 3 of her 4 starts in the 20/21 season & has won her last 2 starts. The mare beat Belfast Banter by 8 lengths in the 1m 7f 110yd Grade 2 Novice Hurdle in February before heading to Fairyhouse on April 8th to land the 2m Grade 2 Novice Stakes by 15 lengths. The only mare in the field, who receives weight from the geldings. – WIN
5.25 – Champion Chase – Grade 1 – 2m… Chacun Pour Soi – Policy Maker X Kruscyna 9yo gelding. C&D winner, who has won 3 of his 4 starts in the 20/21 season, 2 of his wins were Grade 1 chases including the 2m 1f Dublin Chase at Leopardstown, when beating Fakir D’oudaries by 8 lengths on February 6th before heading to Cheltenham, where he finished 3rd in the QM Champion Chase over 1m 8f to Put The Kettle on on March 17th. – WIN
That is everything for you today folks, we will see you soon & thanks for popping by… STAY SAFE. Gamble Responsibly.
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Today is the OFFICIAL final day of the National Hunt season, where we see the curtain closer at Sandown & we crown the Champion Jockey & Champion Trainer. We would like to THANK every stable hand, trainer, jockey, head lad & driver for all their hard work during the National Hunt season & offer our congratulations to Harry Skelton on winning the NH Champion Jockey Championship for the first time, Danny Mcmenamin on becoming Conditional Champion Jockey & to Paul Nicholls & his team for winning the Trainers Championship….
Anyway on to todays racing & we have Sandown (Good, Good to firm in places) & Ripon ( Good to Firm, Good in Places) for you today, Charlie is away fishing so hopefully the 3 of us can have another good day…
Sandown
Chris –
Sandown
3.05 Bet365 Celebration Chase
A fascinating final Grade 1 of the British jumps season with Champion Chase winner Put The Kettle on facing Altior and Sceau Royal with others also lining up to pick up the pieces. Altior gets the nod today, his effort Kempton was creditable and would obviously have needed his first start of the campaign. Nube Negra then franked the form by finishing a close 2nd to Put the Kettle On at the Festival. If Altior has come on physically since christmas, and connections believe he has, then he must take all beating here, with the Sandown hill obviously playing to his strengths having won this three times before.
3.40 Bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase
Plan Of Attack was travelling nicely at the top of the hill in the Kim Muir when stumbling on landing after jumping 3 out. Connections have since given this son of Court Cave extra time to get over that mishap. He arrives here 1lb lower than his Festival mark, and will find todays ground no issue having previously won twice on good ground. It’s perhaps a tip in itself that Rachael Blackmore wanted to come over and take the ride, and I fancy them to plunder another big prize on these shores in this competitive renewal.
Jamie –
Sandown Park –
3:05 – Celebration Chase (G1) – Selection: Put The Kettle On (NAP)
This looks as good a renewal of this 2m Grade One for some time as 2 of the last 3 Champion Chasers go head to head. Alitor despite with age catching up on him still commands a lot of respect, however, I can’t ignore Put TheKettle On who done very well to claim the 2m chasing crown at Cheltenham. Henry De Bromhead’s Mare loves to travel over to England where she is unbeaten in 4 races. She gets the mares allowance of 7lbs here and that could well make the difference against Altior & Sceau Royal, who was very unlucky at Cheltenham. The stiff finish at Sandown will suit her perfectly and with a willing attitude to help she should not be far away. There is also a strong chance that she is still improving. Big chance.
4:50 – Bet365 Novices Handicap Chase – Selection: Not That Fuisse
A hot little 2m 4f contest in store for us here. Killer Clown is undoubtedly the one to beat after a great effort in the Greatwood at Newbury to finish second. On this occasion though I am taking him on with Not That Fuisse for the Skeltons. Not That Fuisse has been performing well this season with form figures of 2152 so far in 2021. His best piece of form would have to be his fifth in the Grand Annual at the Cheltenham Festival, he ran so well for a long way and just emptied a bit up the hill. The step up in trip to 2m 4f did him no harm at Ayr last Friday where he so nearly won a listed race. Off the same mark today he is a big danger and will hopefully be in the thick of things again for a team in great form.
Wolverhampton –
6:15 – Class 5 Handicap – Selection: Lochnaver
William Haggas sends Frankel Filly Lochnaver up to Wolverhampton as he makes his handicap bow this evening over the 1m 1 ½f trip. Lochnaver has been running respectably in Novice Stakes over the winter with his latest start coming at today’s venue over 1m 4f, which looked too far as he weakened away. The form of that race hasn’t worked too badly as the third Napper Tandy won a nice race at Newcastle on Good Friday. It is also eye-catching that Tom Marquand makes the journey to Wolverhampton for four rides and we know how deadly the Haggas/Marquand combination is. At his current price of 5/1 he represents some value and his form is amongst the best on offer.
Rich –
I have 2 from Ripon today on the flat.. 2.40 – Handicap – Class 4 – 3yo Only – 5f… Batraan – Camacho X Testimony Colt. Has been kept busy this winter on the All Weather, winning once & finishing runner up twice from his 4 AW starts from January to March 1st, all in class 5 company. His last run was on April 7th on the turf, which was good to firm at Nottingham in a 5f Class 4 Handicap, when winning by a head from Shalaa Asker… WIN – WITHDRAWN
5.00 – Handicap – Class 3 – 4yo Plus – 1m… Artistic Rifle – War Command X Chatham Island 5yo gelding. Has had a couple of starts for his new trainer. He won at Redcar in a Class 4 Hnadicap over 1m back in September before having a break of 161 days, when he returned on the All Weather at Newcastle in a class 3 handicap over 1m, when finishing 3rd before heading to Doncaster on March 27th. He was stepping up in class also from 3 to 2 over 1m when winning by a neck. He beat Acquitted, who is rated 91 from a mark of 86 & has only been raised 2 for the win. Looks ahead of his mark… WIN
That is everything for you today folks, thanks for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it.. STAY SAFE. Gamble Responsibly.
Pictures – Sandown (File) & Ripon (Ripon RC Twitter account) All the Best – The Arseonlineracing Team
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This week the website passed yet another milestone in 2021, with over 20,000 views recorded & this is the MOST recorded views after just 3 & 1/2 months. We are truly humbled by the support we have received, along with all the people who have given us an interview in the last few years. THANK YOU.
Newbury
This weeks blog comes from Ayr, where it is Scottish Champion Hurdle & Grand National Day along with Newbury, where it is Greenham Stakes day( No pressure then!) And we have the best of both cards for you…
The going is…. Ayr – Good, Good to Soft in places Newbury – Good.
Charlie –
Newbury 2.10Dubai Duty Free Stakes
Selection – Alcohol Free (Nb) – Out of No Nay Never and Plying, has had 3 starts so far, won the Unibet Fillies Novice Stakes at Newbury on the 15th August last year when beating Al Saariyah by 1 and 3/4 lengths. Was sent to Salisbury on the 3rd September and was beaten 3/4 of a length by Happy Romance. More recently won the Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes on the 26th September at Newmarket last year beating Miss Amulet by 1/2 a length. All those races were over 6f, today’s race is over 7f and that shouldn’t be a problem for Alcohol Free as was full of running in each of those races at the post and suggest step up In distance would suit.
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Ayr 3.35 Scottish Grand National
Selection – Mighty Thunder (3b) – Out of Malinas and Cool Island, Has had 2 starts in 2021, won the Edinburgh National at Musselburgh on the 6th February, beating Dino Boy by 20 lengths with Bob Mahler a further 5 lengths adrift in 3rd. Was then sent to Uttoxeter on the 20th March to race in the Midlands National and was beaten a length by Time To Get Up who rallied the strongest in the closing stages. Although was beaten in the Midlands National that form of previous race in the Edinburgh National is strong and could see Mighty Thunder go close again here although Dino Boy has a significant swing in the weights with Mighty Thunder.
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Ayr 5.20Ayrshire Cancer Support Standard Open Nh Flat Race
Selection – High Worth (Nap) – Out of Universal and High Benefit, Has had just the one run so far and finished 2nd at Warwick on the 14th March when finishing 4 lengths behind Mansoline, will have learned plenty from that outing and should be capable of winning this type of race, biggest threat comes in the shape of the Paul Nicholls trained Fleminstide who has had 2 races, finished 2nd on debut at Sandown when beaten 3 and 1/2 lengths by No Ordinary Joe. Won next time out at Exeter when beating Top Of The Bill by 3 and 1/2 lengths.
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Chris –
Newbury
2.10 Dubai Duty Free Stakes
Alcohol Free was a game winner of the Cheveley Park last term, staying on best to bag the Group 1 prize. She doesn’t have a penalty for that win and so arrives here with solid claims against several rivals who finished in behind that day. The 7f trip looks well within range on pedigree, and with the stable enjoying a good start to the new campaign, she must go close this afternoon.
Ayr
3.35 Coral Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase
I have to admit I was disappointed to see Soldier Of Love well backed in the build-up to this, but others have obviously clocked this son of Yeats’ claims here. He rattled off a four-timer last summer on good ground over 3m – 3m 2f, before his best effort came when 2nd to subsequent National Hunt Chase winner Galvin. a mark of 144 looks reasonable on that evidence, and whilst a break of 5 months perhaps isn’t ideal preperation for this test, connections know how to ready one and have won this twice in recent years.
This looks to be a top class renewal of this 2000 Guineas trial. I’m going to put up Alkumait here who is a horse I like very much heading into his classic campaign. His best performance of his three race career so far came at this track in the Mill Reef over 6F last season where he beat Rythym Master. Unfortunately soft ground went against him in the Dewhurst where he finished tailed off in last, connections will be very glad to see good ground today at Newbury. He is undoubtedly in my mind one of the faster horses in the race and if he stays the 7F trip then he holds every chance. The main danger is Chindit who boasts the best form. A very interesting race is in prospect.
3:35 – Ayr – Scottish Grand National – Selection: Notachance
Alan King’s stable is in fine fettle and the Barbury Castle trainer holds strong claims of a second Scottish Grand National success with Notachance. The 7yo son of Mahler is still relatively lightly raced and is enjoying a fine season. Things didn’t go well last time out in the Grand National trial at Haydock when he pulled up lame, however it wasn’t a major issue so I think you can draw a line thorugh that run. Notachance proved his stamina for this race by taking Warwick’s Classic Chase over 3m 5f on soft ground. The return to good ground today will really suit this horse very well and I believe further improvement is on the cards. Alan King says this race has been the aim. Big chance. I must also give a mention to The Ferry Master who will love the ground and if he stays the trip could sneak into a place at a big price.
4:30 – Newbury – MansionBet Maiden Stakes – Selection: Glen Savage
One of the top 3yo Maidens in the UK takes place over 1m 3f today at Newbury. The Gosden stable have a fine record in this race and usually run a pretty smart 3yo in this race. Glen Savage could fit the bill under Frankie Dettori today. The son of Gleneagles is bred in the purple being from the family of Nathaniel. Unlike some in here he is making his racecourse debut today but that wouldn’t put me off. The Gosden stable have been operating at a 25% strike rate over the last 14 days and at the prices Glen Savage could well be good value.
Rich –
Newbury –
1.00 – Maiden – Class 4 – 3yo Only – 1m.. Snow Lantern – Frankel X Sky Lantern 3yo filly. The striking looking grey filly, from the Classic winning parents Frankel & Sky Lantern seemed to get the hang of things around 2f out on her race course debut at Ascot last July, when finishing a 1 & 1/4 length runner up in a 7f Class 5 Fillies’ Novice race to winner, Zabeel Queen, with both of them coming from off the pace. Up another furlong today on seasonal return. The DANGER is likely to come from DERAB – Sea the Stars X Concentric 3yo colt. Sired by multiple classic winner Sea the Stars, is a half brother to Enable, whose Dam is also Concentric. The colts debut back in September, also at Ascot & also finishing 2nd. He was a 1 & 1/4 length 2nd to La Barrosa in a 7f Novice race, the front pair were 2 & 3/4 lengths clear of the field. La Barrosa is a Group 3 winner & finished 2nd on seasonal return in the Craven Stakes last week. I cannot split them!
2.45 – Too Darn Hot Greenham Stakes – 3yo Only – Group 3 – 7f…. Chindit – Wootton Bassett X Always a Dream 3yo colt. Last seen in October at Newmarket when finishing a disappointing 8 lengths in 9th of 14 runners behind winner St Mark’s Basilica in the 7f Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes, having previously been 3 from 3 over 7f. He won a Doncaster, Class 5 maiden in early July before heading to Ascot in late July to land the 7f Listed Pat Eddery Stakes. Chindit made it 3 from 3 by winning the Champagne Stakes, Group 2 at Doncaster in September by 1 length from Albasheer. Season return. – WIN
3.20 Spring Cup – Handicap – Class 2 – 4yo Plus – 1m… Danyah – Invincible Spirit X Cuis Ghaire 4yo gelding. Ran well for a long way on seasonal return in the 1m Lincoln handicap on seasonal return at Doncaster on March 27th. He faded in the final furlong to finish a 4 & 1/2 length 4th to Haqeeqy. Runs from the same mark of 98. I backed him on return & do so again today – WIN.
Ayr –
3.35 – Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase – 5yo Plus – 3m 7f 176yds… Dino Boy – Diamond Boy X Odeline 8yo gelding. A winner at this distance in December in a Class 3 Handicap Chase at Kelso by 15 lengths. A runner up when last seen at Musselburgh over 4m by 20 lengths to Mighty Thunder. Runs from bottom weight of 10st. Has only had 6 Chase starts, winning twice & has placed on 3 other starts… – EACH WAY
That is everything for you today folks… Our FLAT horses to FOLLOW is available to view on our website along with a HUGE catalogue of previous interviews… Thanks for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it Stay Safe. Gamble Responsibly.
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Here we are… Grand National day 2021, after the disappointment of last years abandonment, we can finally enjoy the special race of 40 National Hunt race horses jump the National fences twice before we crown the 2021 winner.
Joining us today is @wattyracing with his National selection….
Today was a tough day. with Rich landing the sites only winner with Belfast Banter(9/1SP) & places at a premium, Jamie had Bravemansgame in 2nd & Charlie had a 6th place too….
Going – Aintree –
Charlie – 1.45 Eft Systems Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3)
Selection – Champagne Platinum – 7yr old Gelding out of Stowaway and Saffron Holly. Has had 10 runs winning twice and placing 4 times. Although hasn’t ran at Aintree before hails from the 7 Barrows yard and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Finished 5th at Cheltenham last time out in the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Grade 3 over 2m 7f 213y behind winner Mrs Milner and The Bosses Oscar. Biggest threat comes in the shape of Come On Teddy who has a similar profile. UNPLACED
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6.20– Weatherbys nhsstallions.co.ukStandard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade2) over 2m 209y
Selection – Charlie’s Glance – 5yr old Gelding who has had one race so far and it was a 5 and 1/2 length victory over Our Jester at Newbury on the 6th of March over 2m 69y. With normal progress should be in the thick of it here, with the biggest threat likely to come in the shape of Balco Coastal for the inform Henderson yard who has a similar profile, although his win at Kempton was a 17 length demolition of Get Sky High.
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Chris –
2.25Mersey Novices Hurdle
Ballyadam has been watching Appreciate It land all the top prices this over recent months, but now gets his chance to land a second Grade 1 over timber. Wasn’t fluent at Cheltenham last time and ran with credit to end up 2nd. He gives the impression this trip on better ground is well within range and I’m expecting a big run here. UNPLACED
3.35 Ryanair Stayers Hurdle
Diol Ker has a bit to find on ratings with the market principles. However, you can’t ignore a potentially unexposed Irish raider, especially after more success here after dominating the Cheltenham Festival. Best form is on a softer surface including a close 2nd at Grade 2 level when running over this trip for the first time, though has run ok on yielding previously. Capable of being involved and at the current prices, he makes definite each-way appeal.
Henry De Bromhead sends Ballyadam to Aintree attempting to regain the winning thread. Since winning December’s Royal Bond at Fairyhouse the Cheveley Park owned horse has found the outstanding Appreciate It too strong on three occasions. The latest came in the Supreme Novices at Cheltenham when Ballyadam was beaten 24 lengths, although you do have to factor in that he made a shuddering mistake at the 2nd last and he rallied well after. On form Ballyadam has a major chance and the step up in trip to 2m 4f could bring out more in him today. I also have to note that he was my jumps horse to follow so I hope he can do the business today. Henry De Bromhead has had a bit more time to get to know this horse now as well since joining his ranks just a few before Cheltenham. UNPLACED
Dundalk –
2:50 – Fillies Maiden (3YO) – Selection: Simply A Dream
There is a lot going for the Ger Lyons trained Simply A Dream who takes on 11 rivals over the 1m 2 ½f trip. The full sister to Hunting Horn makes her second appearance over C&D today. The first positive is that the Lyons stable is in great form boasting a 6-26 (23%) strike rate in the last 14 days, the horses are running through the line very well. Unlike some of her rivals today she has a race under her belt, it was a promising run to be 4th in a decent looking maiden two weeks ago. That looks to be some of the best form on offer here. Simply A Dreams holds every chance and was so hard to ignore I had to put her up today. The main dangers could come from Ballydoyle newcomer Call Me Sweetheart & Dermot Weld’s Umneyaat who has plenty of experience on her side.
Rich –
2.25 Mersey Novice Hurdle – 4yo Plus – Grade 1 – 2m 4f….. Dreal Deal – Arvico X Fleur Rose 6yo gelding. Has had 1 run in 2021 on January 17th in the Grade 2 Punchestown 2m Moscow Flyer, winning it from Ganapthi by 3 lengths. That form has been boosted twice by 1 horse, who finished 4th that day. Echoes in Rain, who beat Belfast Banter by 8 lengths. That was the geldings 4th hurdle win on the bounce, or 6th if you include the 2 Chase wins mixed in too. He has risen from a rating of 84 in September 2020 to 145 today & has won over 2m, 2m 4f & 2m 6f… BIG CHANCE – UNPLACED
3.35 Stayers Hurdle – 4yo Plus – Grade 1 – 3m 149yds Thyme Hill – Kayf Tara X Rosita Bay 7yo gelding. 3rd in the 2019 Champion Bumper at Cheltenham to Envoi Allen & won his first 3 hurdle starts, with a pair of Grade 2 wins & the Challow 2m 4f Grade 1 at Newbury in December 2019. He finished 1 & 1/2 length 4th to Monkfish in the 2m 7f 213yds Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham festival in 2020. Beat Paisley Park on season return in the Grade 2 Newbury Long Distance Hurdle over 3m 52yds & the pair finished 1 & 2 in the Ascot Long Walk Grade 1 over 3m 97yds & were separated by a head, with Paisley Park getting the nod & reversing the form. Thyme Hill missed Cheltenham with a niggle & comes in to the race fresh. WIN
The 2021 Grand National – Grade 3 Handicap Chase – 7yo Plus – 4m 2f 74yds…
Charlie –
Selection – Burrows Saint – 8yr old Gelding out of Saint Des Saint and La Bombonera, has had 13 runs on UK soil winning 5 times and finishing in the first 3 on 9 separate occasions. Although hasn’t ran at Aintree before has won an Irish National back in 2019 and enters calculation in today’s race based on that performance. Was 2nd to Acapella Bourgeois at Fairyhouse last time out over 3m 1f 110y on heavy ground, that was in favour of Acapella who relishes testing conditions, The tables can be turned today as Burrows Saint gets ideal ground today and that could be deciding factor in this gruelling test.
Chris –
My shortlist based on key trends has narrowed the field down to 3. Cloth Cap is a worthy favourite and ticks all the boxes, but I can’t get involved at such a short price on a horse who has never faced a test like this. Kimberlite Candy has run 2 fine races over these fences in the Becher Chase previously, giving the impression this unique and extreme test will suit. I’m not overly concerned about the ground, with more water being added to the course in the past 24 hours. He must go close granted another clear round. At a bigger price Anibale Fly can give you a run for your money. This has once again been the plan and he can add to his 4th and 5th places in the race off this reduced mark. As always, shop around for best place terms.
Jamie –
Selection: Any Second Now
Well, the Grand National is upon us yet again. After it’s abandonment last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic I am raring to go. I was impressed by the manner of Any Second Now‘s victory in a Grade 2 over 2m last month and I think he has been prepared to the minute by Ted Walsh. The vibes are very positive around Any Second Now. I think that Grade 2 success over 2m really showed his wellbeing. His previous form before that win was nothing special but the shrewd old master Ted Walsh was keen to protect his handicap rating and he looks well in here off 10st 9lbs. This race has been the aim since his Cheltenham Festival success in 2019. Of course he has to prove his stamina but if does, as I expect him to then I think he has a good shout of finishing in the top 5 or 6 at least. The ground is fine for him too.
Neil –
Takingrisks. It’s been a few years since the late Monet’s Garden flew the flag for Nicky Richards at Aintree and he has a real livewire chance with Takingrisks who actually beat Cloth Cap a few years ago in the Scottish National at Ayr, stays well and showed age is just a number when he landed the Great Yorkshire Chase at Doncaster back in January. His trainer does well with keeping these old stagers active and winning racing, this could be a fine afternoon for Northern jump racing.
Rich –
Magic of Light – Flemensfirth X Quest of Passion 10yo Mare. Last seen in the mares’ Chase at Cheltenham on March 19th, finishing a 34 lengths behind the winner in 8th, having won the Newbury Mares’ Listed Chase 2m 7f 86yds in December. She finished 2nd by 8 lengths to Roksana when back over hurdles in a Grade 2 mares’ race. Her form mirrors the same as in 2019 when she finished a 2 & 3/4 length runner up in this race to Tiger Roll & I have waited 2 years for this….
That concludes our coverage of the 2021 Grand National Festival from Aintree. Thank you for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it… Stay Safe Gamble Responsibly
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Our continued coverage of the Grand National meeting being held up on Merseyside at Aintree plus our thoughts on the rest of the day’s racing…
So after Day 1 of the meeting Jamie landed our only winner of the day with Abacadabras, places with Adagio(Chris & Rich) & Dostal Phil (Jamie)…..
Going – Aintree – Good to Soft
Charlie –
1.45 Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3)
Selection – Solwara One – 7 year old gelding out of Gold Well and Turquoise Green, lightly raced for his age having only had the 5 career starts and finishing either 1st or 2nd in them all. The wins have came at Uttoxeter, Doncaster and Huntingdon with the 2nd place finishes coming at Wetherby when making debut and at Exeter two starts back. Won on most recent start at Huntingdon on the 17th March when beating Macfin by 4 lengths over 2m 4f 145y. Makes handicap debut and although this is toughst race he’s been involved with so far, he remains unexposed and with some bookies paying 7 places for this race the 10-1 looks overpriced and should be thereabouts.
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5.15 – Pinsent MasonsHandicap Hurdle
Selection – TheWiddow Maker – 7 year old Gelding who has had just the 6 starts so far, placing 3rd once and winning twice, placed 3rd at Wincanton on the 21st January this year when behind Fabrique En France and Blumen Glory. Won next two starts after hood applied at Taunton, the first of those wins was on the 23rd February when beating Young O’Leary by 6 and 1/2 lengths over 2m 104y on heavy ground. Won again on the 15th March, beating Chez Hans by 6 lengths. Although hasn’t ran at Aintree, shaped well on last two starts and at current price of 16-1 is a fair Eachway play with skybet doing 6 places on this race as well.
Jamie –
2:20 – Betway Top Novices Hurdle (G1) – Selection: Third Time Lucki
This looks a hard race to call with various form lines & an unexposed Nicky Henderson horse to consider. The County Hurdle winner Belfast Banter and sixth Third Time Lucki go toe to toe again and being a lot better of at the weights I can see Third Time Lucki reversing the form and get right in the mix here. Dan Skelton’s inmate had to give his Cheltenham conquerer a full stone in weight. On ratings he holds leading claims and with the stable firing on all cylinders I think he’ll run a big race today. Harry Skelton is riding out of skin too in his bid to become Champion Jockey. The return to a flat track like Aintree I think will see some improvement from Third Time Lucki and decent ground will suit him well. I like the each way claims of For Pleasure, who ran well to be third in the Supreme at a decent price.
A big field of 14 go to post for this Grade 1 Novice Hurdle over 3m 1/2f. Bravemansgame brings the best form on the back of his solid third behind the very talented Bob Olinger at Cheltenham. It was a very solid performance and if he improves for the step up in trip here then Bravemansgame will take some stopping. The Nicholls stable had a tremendous day yesterday with 5 winners across the UK and I am confident more winners will follow this weekend. There is a lot going for Bravemansgame and back on a flat track, he is a worthy favourite. The main dangers are Cape Gentlemen and Gallyhill, who could be anything at this stage of his career.
Rich –
2.20 – Top Novices’ Hurdle – Grade 1 – 4yo Plus – 2m 103yds… Belfast Banter – Jeremy X Sumtin Nice 6yo gelding. Broke his Irish maiden in October 2020 & has run 4 times since, placing twice prior to Cheltenham last month. One of them placed runs was an 8 length runner up to Echoes in Rain in a Naas Grade 2 over 1m 7f 15yds on February 28th, Echoes in rain hacked up in a Grade 2 on Sunday by 15 lengths at Fairyhouse. Belfast Banter ran at Cheltenham in the 2m 179yd County Grade 3 Hurdle, beating Petit Mouchair on March 19th. Up in Grade. Each Way
4.05 – Topham Handicap Chase – Grade 3 – 5yo Plus – 2m 5f 19yds… Modus – Motivator X Alessandra 11yo gelding. Ran twice in 2020 having been off the track for 465 days, with both runs at this course. He runs well after a break, with his form from 2017 after a break reading 1/1/3/6/1. his last run was on December 5th over C&D in the Grand Sefton Class 2 Handicap, finishing a 6 & 3/4 length 3rd to Beau Bay. Has been off since, 125 days. Each Way
That’s everything for you today folks, thanks for popping by & for your continued support, we really appreciate it. Stay Safe. Gamble responsibly. Pictures – Aintree Twitter Account
Welcome to Arseonlineracing’s Coverage of the Aintree Grand National Festival.. This website is 100% independent & has NO affiliate links…
This time last year we were all under instruction from the government to Stay at Home due to the global pandemic, so the Grand National was cancelled & instead run via a virtual computer… Fast forward 12 months & the meeting is back, although no spectators but Owners and staff allowed on course the Festival will be run & the big race on Saturday will NOT be computer generated!!
A full blog on all 3 days of the meeting & @wattyracing joins us on Saturday for the Grand National…
Going – Aintree – Good to Soft
Charlie – 1.45 Manifesto Novices Chase
Selection – Fusil Raffles – Out of Saint Des Saints and Tali Des Obeaux, has had 10 runs winning 6 times, the wins have came at Kempton, Punchestown, Wincanton, Uttoxeter and Cheltenham X 2. Was 2nd last time out at Cheltenham in the Marsh Novices Chase when finishing 3 lengths behind Chantry House on the 18th March. Although hasn’t ran at Aintree should relish the track and the going and is taken to give Nicky Henderson another winner.
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4.05 Randox Fox Hunters Chase
Selection – Billaway – Out of Well Chosen and Taipans Girl, has had 13 career starts under rules winning 4 times. The wins have came at Downpatrick, Naas, Down Royal and another win at Naas on the 21st January when beating Stalker Wallace by 2 and 1/4 lengths. Was 2nd on most recent start at Cheltenham in the St Jame’s Place Fox Hunters Chase when going down by a short head to Porlock Bay. Although hasn’t got any experience around Aintree should have enough class to get involved in this race and is taken to beat Sam Tegal and Cat Tiger.
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Chris –
1.45 Manifesto Novices Chase
This is usually a race to focus on those who were beaten in either the Arkle, or the Marsh at the Festival last time out. In fact, 8 of the previous 9 winners of this race went through that route. I’m backing Fusil Raffles to give Nicky Henderson a third win in the contest over recent years. A good 2nd behind stablemate Chantry House last time, Fusil Raffles raced prominently and jumped well on the whole, traits which are useful around here. He’s obviously not been missed in the betting, but this race tends to favour those fancied near the top of the market.
2.20 Doom Bar Anniversary 4YO Juvenile Hurdle
Adagio put up a great effort when 2nd in the Triumph, he arrives here with leading claims and some pretty strong trends in his corner too. 6 of the last 9 winners finished in the top 3 of the Triumph previously, whilst this is a another Grade 1 which tends to go to a horse that raced at Cheltenham in March. Finale Juvenile winners are also 3-6 in recent times, which is another positive for the David Pipe team. Drying ground is fine based on the evidence of his Festival effort, and he must go close today.
3.25 Betway Aintree Hurdle
Silver Streak landed a deserved Grade 1 at Christmas, but found the soft conditions not to his liking in the Champion Hurdle. He should have no excuses here, though does need to improve on his previous effort in the race when 5th in 2019. Arguably Silver Streak is a better horse now, whilst the record of horses beaten in the Champion Hurdle and bouncing back here is strong. Should he continue to thrive on better ground, he looks more than capable of making the frame at a very good price.
A field of seven top Novice Chasers go to post for the first of four Grade One contests on today’s card. Cheltenham second FusilRaffles deserves to be favourite but I have always thought a lot of Hitman and it could be his day to strike at the top level. Paul Nichol’s charge has enjoyed a solid season so far and done little wrong, despite a fall at Sandown in February. It was a straightforward win at Newbury where he sent off at 1/7 against two inferior rivals. Still, it was a confidence boosting run and he boasts some high class form, such as a staying on second over 2m behind Allmankind at Sandown in December. He holds every chance here and not running at Cheltenham means he has had more time to prepare for this race. I like his chances today on over this track, trip and ground.
This is a cracking race full of quality throughout the field. I think today may well be the day when Abacadabras shines on the big stage. The Foster/Elliott inmate has been a costly horse to follow this season, with only a Morgiana Hurdle success to show for his efforts this season. Last time out he fell at the 3rd hurdle in the Champion Hurdle, which isn’t an ideal scenario coming into today’s contest. I believe the step up in trip and the slower tempo of this race will suit this horse very well. As will the ground which is the quickest surface he will have race on for quite some time. He ran well enough behind Honeysuckle in the Irish Champion Hurdle to suggest he still retains his ability and I think he won’t be far away today. Stable form is a slight concern but if he fires then Abacadabras holds every chance. McFabulous & Jason The Militant are big dangers.
4:40 – Red Rum Handicap Chase – Selection: Dostal Phil
There are many appealing sorts in this 2m 4f contest. Moon Over Germany, a former winner of this race and Frero Banbou interest me but I going to put up Dostal Phil at a good each way price here. Philip Hobbs’ son of Coastal Path is still unexposed at this trip and looks to still have improvement in him. Dostal Phil is enjoying a light but consistent campaign so far and he arrives on Merseyside after a decent second to well fancied rival Grey Diamond at Sandown last month. It appears that this 2m is his forte and I think we could see more improvement in him today. He has a cracking each way chance in my book in an open contest. Good to soft ground is ideal for him and the hood has been removed which could spark him into life.
Each way advised.
Rich –
2.20 – 4yo Juvenile Hurdle – Grade 1 – 4yo Only – 2m 1f… Adagio – Weiner Walzer X Aspidistra. Landed the Grade 1 Juvenile Hurdle Finale 2m 11yds at Chepstow by 2 & 1/2 lengths on January 9th before heading to Cheltenham in the Grade 1 Triumph 2m 1f Hurdle, finishing a 3 & 1/4 length runner up to Quilxios. I put him up at Cheltenham & saw no reason not to back him here. WIN
4.40 Red Rum Handicap Chase – Grade 3 – 5yo Plus – 1m 7f 176yds… Billingsley – Millenary X Retain The Magic 9yo gelding. Won 3 of his first 4 chases in his debut chase season from November 2019 to February 2020. In the following 4 runs from December 2020 to February 2021, he has Fallen, Unseated his jockey, finished a 37 length 6th & was pulled up when last seen on February 20th in a Class 3 Handicap Chase over 2m 4f at Wincanton. He was running from a mark of 132 & his last winning mark in February 2020 was 129, which he races from today. He also likes to front run. His form over this distance reads 9 runs, 5 wins & 1 place. He also returns after a wind operation. With some bookies paying 6 places, I am hoping for 1 of the 6 places – EACH WAY
That is everything for you today folks… Thanks for popping by & for your continued support, we really appreciate it. Stay Safe. Gamble Responsibly.
All the Best – The Arseonlineracing Team Pictures – File & Aintree RC(Twitter account)
Welcome to Arseonlineracing… The 100% Independent racing website with NO affiliate links….
This is a Bank Holiday blog special, with plenty of racing around, which includes the Irish Grand National at 5pm at Fairyhouse…
With plenty to get through to day, let’s get this blog started….
Charlie –
Chepstow – 1.30 – Selection – Discko Des Plages out of Balko and Lady Des Plages, has had 16 career starts winning twice and placing 5 times. Was 2nd last time out at Uttoxeter on the 20th March when beaten 5 lengths by Rosmuc Relay over 2m 4f. Is due another win and today could be that day off 1lbs higher, biggest threat comes in the shape of Casper’s Court who has a similar profile.
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Plumpton – 3.55 – Selection – Solomon Grey, out of Sulamani and Sardagna, has had 21 career starts winning 5 times and placing in a further 14 races. Was a disappointing 5th last time out at Hereford on the 13th March when finishing behind winner Financier. That last run can be forgiven as ground was against him there. Can gain compensation here in a slightly better race with reported good ground a positive.
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Kempton – 5.10 – Selection – Lexington Dash, Out of Siyouni and Mythical Border. Has had 11 career starts winning 2 times and placing in another 6 races. Was beaten a short head by Gunmetal at Doncaster on his return on the 28th March. Has ran with some promise on the couple of occasions he’s ran on the all-weather although hasn’t ran at Kempton before today has finished 2nd at Lingfield and Chelmsford. If taking to the surface another bold display can’t be ruled out, biggest threat comes in the shape of Treacherous who has won 2 times from last 4 starts.
Chris –
Cork 3.35 Mares Maiden Hunters’ Chase
The Forge Hill makes her Hunters’ Chase debut this afternoon, having shown a game attitude in points last year, sadly denied a hat-trick of wins when falling 2 out last time. This isn’t the deepest of contests and is potentially a head-to-head with market rival Clounts Glory, but my selection has the best form on a sound surface and she gets those conditions today. The Morozov mare is likely to take some pegging back here.
Jamie –
3:50 – Underwriting Exchange Hurdle (G2) – Selection: The Bosses Oscar
This is a top class Grade 2 Hurdle contest to enjoy with Cheltenham form put to the test. The favourite BeaconEdge deserves to be favourite after running so well when fourth in the Stayers Hurdle. My selection though is Pertemps runner up The Bosses Oscar who receives 5lbs from Beacon Edge and that could make the difference. The Bosses Oscar has been very consistent this season with form figures of 1222 and looks set for another big run here. He drops down to 2m 4f for the first time since running 5th in the Martin Pipe at Cheltenham but he had previously won over this trip before then. The ground is perfect for him and he holds every chance in this company. French Dynamite along with Beacon Edge are the ones to beat here, they boast good ratings. Although I am sure my selection will be in the mix coming up the home straight.
Rich –
Redcar (Good to Firm) 1.10 – Novice Stakes – Class 5 – 3yo Plus – 1m… Headingley – Dawn Approach X Gold Bubbles 3yo colt. 2 starts in 2020, with 1 win & 1 place. Runner up on race course debut in a 1m Class 6 Maiden at Ayr on September 29th, beaten by a head> Made no mistake on October 15th in a Chelmsford (AW) Class 5 , 1m Novice Stakes when winning convincingly by 4 & 1/2 lengths. Off for 172 days. Season return.
Kempton(AW) 3.30 – Conditions Stakes – Class 2 – 3yo Only – 1m… Mostahdaf – Frankel X Handassa 3yo colt. Made debut at Newcastle(AW) on March 16th in a 7f Class 5 Novice Stakes. This performance was very eye catching as the colt won with ease in a 13 runner field by 4 &1/2 lengths…
5.00 – Irish Grand National Chase – Handicap – Grade A – 3m 5f 50yds…
Rich – Court Maid – Court Cave X She’s A Venture 8yo Mare. C&D winner in November 2020 in a Grade B Handicap Chase by 13 lengths. She has 2 wins at this course from her 5 Chase starts. Was last seen at Cheltenham in December when finishing 3rd by 1 length to Storm Control in a Grade 3 Handicap Chase over 3m 2f, carrying a 5Lb penalty for her win here the month previously. Has been off the track for 115 days – Each Way
Chris –
Sadly The Big Dog is a late non-runner, so I’m putting up Agusta Gold on his first start for Willie Mullins. An impressive 2nd in the National Trial last year before a pair of creditable efforts this term. Willie Mullins isn’t concerned about the drying ground and she has some smart form over hurdles on a sound surface. She should go well at the current prices and is the choice of Paul Townend of the stables battalion.
Charlie – 5.00 Irish Grand National
Selection – Augusta Gold – Out of Gold Well and Chloe’s Choice. Has had 20 career starts winning 5 times and placing 16 times. Was beaten around 8 lengths last time out at Navan on the 29th January when finishing behind winner Damalisque. Had beaten Moyhenna by 1/2 length in race prior to that in a National trial over 2m 5f 50y on heavy ground. If repeating that kind of run today should be in the thick of it with Stable mate Robin Des Carlow being the biggest danger.
Jamie –
5:00 – BoyleSports Irish Grand National – Selection: Coko Beach
I’m really looking forward to this year’s Irish Grand National. The addition of Latest Exhibition has added a lot to the race but he faces a tough task off top weight. The one I like is the Thyestes winner Coko Beach who arrives fresh and well after a comfortable Grade 2 success over one of today’s rivals, Epsanito Bello. Jordan Gainford gets the leg up on the 6yo and claims what could be a valuable 7lbs, Jordan has been riding plenty of winners since joining the Cullentra yard of Denise Foster and looks a top prospect. Any rain would be welcome for Coko Beach who’s best form has come on soft ground, he could also still be well handicapped. The trip poses a question mark but judging by the way he finished off at Gowran over 3m 1f on heavy ground he should be fine. At double figure odds he could well be worth a punt. I would advise an e/w bet in what looks a very tricky puzzle to solve, but you would have to expect that in a national. Ten Ten could go well at a big price for the Dempsey family.
That is everything for you folks…. We will see you for the Aintree Grand National Festival of Racing! Thanks for popping by, we really appreciate your support. Stay Safe. Gamble Responsibly.
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