2000 Guineas Blog

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As mentioned on our Guineas Podcast, we have Guest blogger today…

The lads have been given free reign to pick as many or as little selections as they want, from ANY course in the UK & Ireland… Plus our thoughts on the BIG race at Newmarket!
The PODCAST for both the 2000 & 1000 Guineas is available on Spotify, search Arseonlineracing… AOBFS & Laurent (sky Sports Racing) are our Special Guests!

Charlie –

Newmarket

3.00 Palace House Stakes (Group 3)

Selection – Zarzyni – 5 year old Gelding out of Siyouni and Zunera. Has had 19 runs under rules and has won 3 times. Broke a 4 race streak of seconditis at Musselburgh last time out when beating Justanotherbottle by 3/4 of a length sporting first time cheekpieces, retains that headgear for todays race and could run well again although this is a deeper race than last time, currently available at around the 10-1 price at time of writing and is an Eachway selection, biggest danger to the selection comes in the shape of Tis Marvellous who hasn’t been out of the 1st 3 places in last 5 starts..

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3.40 Quipco 2000 Guineas (Group 1)

Selection – Coroebus – 3 Year old Colt out of Dubawi and First Victory, has had just the 3 starts so far and has won twice and placed 2nd once. The wins came here on the 13th August last year when beating Saga by 1 and 1/4 lengths. Was 2nd here on next start on the 25th September when beaten a neck by Royal Patronage. Won on next start here on the 9th October when beating Imperial Fighter by 2 lengths. Biggest dangers to the selection comes in the shape of Stablemate and current favourite Native Trail who hasn’t put a foot wrong in 5 starts, the other danger is the Aidan O’brien trained Luxembourg who has won all 3 starts so far.

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Chris –

Newmarket

1.50 Heritage Handicap

Jumby showed much improved form over the second half of last year including a win here over 7f off 2lb’s lower. He has also won over course and distance a year ago and was placed in the Group 3 Abernant Stakes here a fortnight ago. If this son of New Bay strips fitter for that run, he can go close off todays mark of 106. He makes plenty of each-way appeal at the current time of writing, given that excellent course record.

3.40 Qipco 2000 Guineas Stakes 

Native Trail will take a lot of beating here, ticking off several key trends for this race, but at likely skinny odds, I’ll take a punt on a live each-way player. Royal Patronage is a course and distance winner, beating Coroebus in the Royal Lodge last September. He faded quickly in the Vertem on his final start, but connections have since revealed this son of Wooton Bassett suffered a nasty cut and needed plenty of time-off after that day, so clearly wasn’t his running.
He looks massively overpriced on previous form, and whilst his future will likely be over further, he could be running on late to make the frame. Shop around for extra places here, with some big odds currently available. 

Punchestown

3.50 Coolmore Kew Gardens EBF Mares Champion Hurdle

Epatante has been back at her best this season, winning 3 times from 4, her only defeat coming when not beaten far by superstar Honeysuckle in the Champion Hurdle. She travelled strongly when upped to 2m 4f in the Aintree Hurdle last time, showing no stamina fears. The extra week between Aintree and Punchestown is also in her favour, and could add a 4th Grade 1 of the campaign here. Stablemate Marie’s Rock has also won 3 times this term, and could land the forecast for the Nicky Henderson team should she back up her Mares Hurdle victory.

Jamie –

3:00 – Palace House Stakes (G3) 

Selection: Arecibo (Each way)  

This is a very open looking Palace House Stakes with plenty making each way appeal. Arecibo goes well fresh and shouldn’t be far away on all known form. The son of Invincible Spirit ran in some of the top sprints last year and wasn’t disgraced in any. If he was to run up to his King’s Stand Stakes form, where he was second then he has a big chance of hitting the frame. There looks to be some pace in this race and I am hoping that Jamie Spencer will be able to find a nice position and get a lovely tow into the race. The fast ground is in Arecibo’s favour and he has two course and distance wins to his name from 2021. All is set for a big run this afternoon.  

3:40 – Qipco 2000 Guineas (G1)  

Selection: Coroebus  

Godolphin hold a strong hand in the opening classic of the flat season and I believe the second string Coroebus can spring a minor surprise. As I said in our Guineas podcast, I think Coroebus has a more explosive turn of foot than Native Trail, which may have raised a few eyebrows admittedly. My selection is one from two over course and distance, with that win being a very snug Autumn Stakes victory last October. On ratings Native Trail is 7lb his superior but Coroebus may well have improved more over the winter and reports from home have been bullish about his wellbeing. I think he is the value against the favourite and I can’t ignore the 5/1 price.
I also think Point Lonsdale has been forgotten about by many and could sneak into a place at double figure odds for each way backers.

Punchestown –

5:30 – Grade B Handicap Hurdle  

Selection: Heia (Each way)  

Sporting the colours made famous by Honeysuckle, Heia holds solid claims of getting in the money today. The Willie Mullins trained Mare, who is a French import, was highly thought of enough to run in the Dawn Run Mares Novice Hurdle. She was no match for Love Envoi and co but these are calmer waters in terms of class but not in competitiveness with 24 other runners. It was a great effort on her handicap debut at Fairyhouse over Easter, where she was just narrowly beaten by Glan and her stablemate La Prima Donna, who I think has an excellent chance of winning, if you fancy doing the forecast? Running off 10st 8lbs, I think 12/1 (at the time of writing) is good value. She will need to cope with this step up in trip but if she does, I think Heia will give us a good run for our money.
The ground is fine and we all know that the Mullins stable is firing on all cylinders.  

Special Guest – Paul @AOBFS

2000 Guineas

POINT LONSDALE – 14/1 – Australia x Sweepstake – Brother to G1 Winner Broome
5 Starts 4 Wins including a Curragh Maiden, The Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot The Tyros Stakes(Group 3) & The Futurity Stakes (Group 2). His last run as a juvenile came when he was defeated by Native Trail by 3 lengths in the National Stakes last September. He reminds Aidan of his sire who placed
in the Guineas before winning the Derby. I have a great deal of time and respect for stablemate Luxembourg but at the prices I see Point Lonsdale as very good value and imagine he will be there or thereabouts at the finish of the Guineas hopefully some bookmakers may offer extra places and I think
you could back far worse 14 to 1 shots.
A.P.O’Brien 2,000 Guineas Winners – (10) – King of Kings (1998), Rock of Gibraltar (2002), Footstepsinthesand (2005), George Washington (2006), Henrythenavigator (2008), Camelot (2012) Gleneagles (2015), Churchill (2017), Saxon Warrior (2018), Magna Grecia (2019)

Rich –

Thirsk –
2.05 Thirsk Hunt Cup – Class 2 – 4yo+ – 1m…
Astro King – Kingman X Astroglia 5yo Horse
1 win & 3 places from 7 turf starts. A winner on his seasonal return last year at Nottingham in the 1m 75yd Class 3 Handicap by a short head. He placed 3rd in this race last year to Snorting by 3/4’s of a length & has aso finished 2nd to Real World in the Royal Hunt Cup Handicap at Ascot & 3rd to Cruyff Turn in a 1m Class 2 York Handicap.
Last seen in September, when finishing well down the field in the Class 2 Cambridgeshire 1m 1f Handicap at Newmarket in late September. (TRACKER)
DANGER – Empirestateofmind – 4 wins & 4 places from 12 turf runs, was 3rd on seasonal return in a Class2 1m Doncaster Handicap & a LTO winner in a Ripon Class 4 1m Apprentice Handicap…

Newmarket –

2.25 Handicap – Class 2 – 3yo+ – 1m 1f…
Dhahabi – Frankel X Fleche D’or 4yo colt.
The colt was highly thought of as a 2yo but missed all of last season & returns today after 567 days away from the track. He has only had 3 career starts with 1 win & 2 places. A course winner over 7f on his debut over 7f in a Class 5 Maiden in July 2020 before finishing Runner up to Saint Lawrence in the 7f Denford Listed Stakes at Newbury in August 2020.
His final start came in October 2020 at this course, when finishing 3rd to One Ruler in the Group 3 1m Autumn Stakes, with Van Gogh 2nd & Megallan 3rd that day (TRACKER)
DANGER – TurnTable – 4 wins & 3 places from 16 turf starts, which include 2 course wins & a win over C&D, he was last seen winning a Class 3 C&D Handicap by 1 & 1/4 lengths from Celtic Art

3.40 – 2000 Guineas – Group 1 – 3yo Colts Only – 1m…
Royal Patronage – Wootton Bassett X Shaloushka Colt.
AS I mentioned on the Podcast, this is a cracking race & stats can only take you so far. The Favourite, is the likely winner ( Native Trail) but Royal Patronage has been over looked. He has 3 wins from 6 starts as a 2yo with 1 place & that was to Native Trail in a Sandown 7f Class 5 Maiden by 4 lengths on his 2nd start. He won a 7f Class 4 Epsom Novice Stakes in July by 5 lengths before stepping into Group company at York in August to land the Group 3 Acomb Stakes by 2 & 1/4 lengths & then on September 25th over C&D beat Coroebus by a neck in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes.

He was last seen finishing last in the Group 1 Futurity Trophy at Doncaster on October 23rd, when 8th of 8 to Luxembourg, having been struck into & we can put a line though that race. Returns after 189 days off track – Each Way
DANGERS – Native Trail is unbeaten & the 1 to beat, Stable mate, Coroebus could be anything along with Futurity Stakes & unbeaten Luxembourg. Perfect Power steps up in trip along with Point Lonsdale & these 2, if staying the 1m trip & mastering the dip could also play a big start in the finish….

Thanks for popping by, we really appreciate it & your continued support.

All the Best – The Arseonlineracing Team

Flat Spots with Watty

Hello everyone and after a pulsating seven months or so of seeing horses leaping over hurdles and fences, most of them in conditions that were either Baltic or wet and quite often both at the same time it is now time to switch codes and concentrate on the flat as summer approaches.

Haydock Park

Last Saturday saw myself having a gentle easing back into the flat as Haydock held it’s traditional opening meeting, now this might not have been the classiest card but it did provide some good finishes.
Hopefully some future winners to follow and here are three that caught my eye on the afternoon.

1 – Duty Bound – 3yo Bay Colt – Trainer : Andrew Balding.

Carrying the colours of The Queen in what looked a pretty decent novice race over just short of 1m4f this son of Kingman ran twice as a two year old in a pair of maiden races at Nottingham over 1m.

Up in trip he ran a fair race back in fourth behind one of Charlie Appleby’s and two from the Gosden’s and will definitely come on for it and will now be qualified for handicaps.

He should pay his way in middle distance races during the summer and can one of plenty royal winners in what will be a huge year for HM.

2 – Wonderful Times – 3yo Bay Filly – Trainer : John & Thady Gosden.

In a race that had all eyes on the impressive winner Nashwa for the same stable in the 1m Fillies’ Novice races the race did have some eye catching performances in behind.

Debutant Wonderful Times in the pink and white of the Normandie Stud showed signs of greenness on her first day at school but learned a lot as the race developed and ran on nicely down the outside to eventually get second.

Nashwa was very impressive and holds entries in the Epsom and Chantilly Classics for the fillies and if she can live up to that hype then Wonderful Times should be able to pick some black type up at some point too.

3 – Zulu Tracker – 3yo Chestnut Gelding – Trainer : Ed Walker.

In a race with quite a lot of handicap debutants in it the 3.15 from last Saturday is worth keeping an eye on for throwing up future winners.

Zulu Tracker came into this with a cracking chance on paper as he was last spotted at Salisbury behind Friday’s Esher Cup winner Wanees and on that form he looked the best horse in the race.

However, he could only finish third but like many will strip fitter for it and probably prefers a bit of juice in the ground as Haydock was good to firm which for many of us regulars is something we are not used to seeing especially in the spring.

Article by Neil Watson – @WattyRacing
Pictures – Neil Watson ( Except Haydock stand : File)

Arseonlineracing Publication – Published April 2021

A Simple Saturday

Welcome to Arseonlineracing.. The 100% Independent racing website & Podcast with NO affiliate links.

Haydock Park

Charlie is having a break until next weekend, Jamie is also away & Chris has taken some family time, so you are left with Rich.
Sadly it’s just Flat action from me today as I didn’t have time to look at the last NH day.

We would like to Congratulate Brian Hughes on his 2nd NH Jockey’s Championship, Kevin Brogan on winning the Conditional NH Jockeys Championship & Paul Nicholls on another Trainers Championship..
Plus a BIG thanks to everyone involved in this seasons NH campaign, it wouldn’t have been possible without you all…

Sandown

Hi Guys.. Flying Solo today & I have 2 for you at Haydock & Ripon, both are Each Way with 3 places available on both races, plus I will include my trackers..

Ripon – Good, Good to Soft in Places
2.20 Handicap – Class 2 – 4yo + – 1m…
Garden Oasis – Excelebration X Queen Arabella 7yo gelding.
Has run 10 times at this course over 1m 2f & C&D, of which he has won 3 times & placed 3 times from 8 C&D runs. Was runner up in this race behind Artistic Rifles by 4 & 1/2 lengths.
Was last seen at York in October, when finishing 13th of 20 runner in a 1m Class 2 Handicap, when having his 12th start of 2021, winning 4 times last season in C4, 2x C3 & C2 company & runs from a career high mark of 90 today – Each Way

Haydock – Good
3.45 Lathom Handicap – Class 2 – 4yo+ – 1m
Darkness – Siyouni X Kerila 4yo gelding.
Moved to England from France after July 2021 from France, where he was a 1m Listed winner at Lyon in September 2020. He won 3 times from his 6 starts in his debut season & was considered good enough to run in the Group 1 Prix Critirium International at Saint-Cloud. Spent 2021 running over 1m 1f in Group 3 & Listed company before moving to the UK.
He has run twice this term, when finishing 17th in the 1m Lincoln Handicap at Doncaster on March 26th & last time out on April 6th at Nottingham, over 1m 75yds, when finishing 4th to Seasett in a Class 3 Handicap, with 3rd winning next time out. – Each Way

Todays Trackers –

Insolente – Harry Angel 2yo Filly. 4th on debut – Ripon 1.45

Saint Calvados – Decent NH chaser – Sandown 2.25

Lexington Knight – Jamie Brownlow’s Flat H2F 2022 – Read our article for more details – Ripon 3.28

PLUS 2 AOBFS H2F running at Navan
New York City & Twinkle

That is all folks, thanks for popping by & for taking the time to check out our Flat Horses to Follow 2022, which was published on Monday, we really appreciate it.

All the Best – The AOLR Team

Bank Holiday Bonanza

Hello & welcome to an AOLR Bank Holiday Bonanza Blog..
The website & Podcast are 100% Independent & Have NO affiliate links.

As a team we decided to take a break after Aintree & now we return with the flat season about to get in to full swing & the winding down of the NH season. We are likely to blog on the closing weekend of the NH season from Sandown, which was brought to our attention after the last blog post & we are also about to release the AOLR Flat Horses to Follow 2022, so plenty going on at the moment!
Charlie is taking a break & will return soon, so it is just the 3 of us for the time being….

Chris –

Fairyhouse

3.50 Rathberry & Glenview Studs Hurdle

A competitive Grade 2 contest and I’m siding with Whiskey Sour. He’s not won many recently despite some good efforts in defeat, but returned to winning ways over hurdles at Leopardstown last month with an impressive display. This is a stronger race, but he may well be able to to capitalise once again with the yard once again enjoying a strong Spring.

5.00 – Irish Grand National Handicap Chase

Farclas has put in a string of strong efforts in staying chases over the past 18 months, and can continue that trend today. His 2nd in the Troytown behind Run Wild Fred was a good effort, and unlike many of his rivals, arrives here a fresh horse having avoided the soft winter ground. 5lb claimer on board here makes his very interesting off a corrected mark of 146. Shop around for best placed terms and he makes plenty of appeal here.

Kempton

2.20 – Fillies Conditions Stakes

Oaks entry Morning Poem went in the notebook after his debut effort over course and distance in November. She was slowly away there but the penny quickly dropped, finishing best of all to break her maiden at the first time of asking. This looks a nice race on paper with all 6 not without chance, but this daughter of Kingman makes most appeal and she can land this on the way to better things this term.

Jamie –

Kempton

4:05 – Snowdrop Fillies Stakes (Listed)

Selection: Roman Mist

The top rated Filly in this Listed contest by 1lb is Tom Ward’s Roman Mist who I believe is good value at 11/4 against the favourite today. The daughter of Holy Roman Emperor performed well on her first start of 2022 here over C&D when just beaten a head in a class 2 handicap. Roman Mist appears to have carried on her progression from last season and with the cobwebs having been blown away 19 days ago she has a big chance this afternoon of going one better. Only one of her rivals today (Flame Of Freedom) has had a recent run. I like the way this Filly is going about her business and hopefully she can get the job done today for us.

Fairyhouse

5:00 – Irish Grand National
Selection: Time To Get Up

Trainer Jonjo O’Neill goes in search of a third win in the Irish National with Time To Get Up, who I believe has the right credentials to run a huge race today. A winner of the Midlands National last year at Uttoxeter over the marathon 4m 2f trip, this year Time To Get Up was third in the same race this year behind the reaposing Screaming Colours. The Irish National has been the plan for this horse all season long and he has snuck in at a nice weight of 10-7 which gives him big claims today. With only 10 races under his belt the best is yet to come from Time To Get Up whilst the ground offers no excuses. He’s been primed for this race.

Rich –

Kempton (AW) Standard to Slow

3.30 Roseberry Handicap – Class 2 – 4yo+ – 1m 3f
Something Enticing – Fascinating Rock 4yo filly.
First run for Andrew Balding since moving from the Retired, David Elsworth. A winner at this course over 1m in January 2021 in a Class 4 Handicap. Has run her last 7 times on Turf & was last seen finishing a 3/4’s of a length 2nd to Vaesela in the 1m 2f Fillies’ & Mares’ Listed race at Doncaster on November 6th, Has won 3 times in total, twice after a break – Each Way

4.40 Handicap – Class 2 – 4yo+ – 1m
Intuitive – Haatef X Majraa 6yo gelding.
Top Rated 104. Has 2 wins over 1m, although hasn’t won in 6 since beating Documenting in a 3 runner Class 3 Handicap at Lingfield. The gelding was last seen finishing a neck 2nd to Tadreeb on March 18th in a Lingfield 7f Class 2 Handicap, Carries 9s 7Lbs today but Harry Burns takes off 5Lb for the Crisford team. Has 3 Course wins from 3 Course runs – Each Way

Fairyhouse
5.00 Irish Grand National Handicap Chase – Grade A – 5yo+ – 3m 5f 50yds
Champagne Platinum – Stowaway X Saffron Holly 8yo gelding.
Never run at Fairyhouse! Has 1 win & 2 places over chase fences. The gelding finished 2nd of 13 in the Punchestown Grand National Trial over 3m 4f 40yds on February 13th, won by Death Duty having won at Navan in January over 3m. He was last seen on March 13th at Naas in the 3m Leinster National Handicap Chase, finishing 7th of 12 to Diol Ker. 28 Runners today – Each Way

That is all for today folks, our AOLR Flat Horses to Follow will be Published at 7PM this evening! Thanks for popping by & for your continued support, we really appreciate it.

All the Best – The Arseonlineracing Team

The Season Ending – WattySpots Part 7

Hello and welcome to the final Wattyspots of the 2021/22 National Hunt season.

Last Thursday saw myself take in the opening day of the Grand National Festival at Aintree.

Aintree

Since 2019 the course has had one of them abandoned due to the old you know what and last year was behind closed doors with only owners and essential staff allowed through the gates. This year the general public were allowed back in & included 10,000 people who were given a complimentary ticket as a thank you for all their hard work during the pandemic.

I always find the opening day to be a day for the racing purist and this year proved no exception and while trying to spot future winners looked a bit tricky, here are three I think you should note down for next season.

War Lord, 7yo Grey Gelding, Colin Tizzard.

A three time winner over fences this term, War Lord was firmly put in his place behind Edwardstone in the Arkle but came to Aintree for a crack at the G1 Manifest Novices’ Chase over 2m4f.

To be fair he ran a decent race in defeat behind Millers Bank and seemed to stay the trip, he was already a winner of 2m 3f over hurdles before he went chasing.

I think next season be could be aimed early at a limited handicap like the Old Roan back here in October or something like the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter.
The gelding should get three miles in time and has a good career in handicaps ahead of him.

Neil with the Grand National Trophy

Fautinette, 4yo Bay Filly, Venetia Williams.

On the face of it this first British debut for this filly will have definitely gone unnoticed as she was pulled up before the fourth flight and never got involved.

Before this though she was a thrice winner over hurdles back in France at Angouleme and twice at Vichy all on soft and heavy going, a traditional trait of most Venetia Williams horses.

This was a huge chuck in at the deep end race for her but after a summers break I think she can improve a lot more when the ground comes her way.
It will be of interest if she is kept to hurdles or goes chasing and still unexposed so the world is still her oyster.

Neil (Right) with a special friend at Aintree

Lutinebella, 6yo Bay Mare, Fergal O’Brien.

I was at Warwick back in February when I saw this mare finally break her maiden tag in bumpers at the fourth time of asking and she impressed me loads that afternoon with her battling tendencies right up to the line.

Lining up here in the Grade 2 Bumper for Mares’ she had a good each way chance and the 50-1 ew was readily taken up on the nanny as the place bet paid more.

Back to the race and many were on the Willie Mullins trained Ashroe Diamond, who for many was the jewel in the getting out stakes and she won as the market predicted but I was very much caught again by Lutinebella, who ran very nicely in third and was actually the first British trained mare home in that race albeit trained by a British based Irishman. 

Lutinebella will make a nice hurdler next season and I definitely can’t wait to see her when she does it.

Footnote ; AOLR would like to thank Neil for his fantastic WattySpots series during the 2021/22 National Hunt season. Simply brilliant.

Article – Neil Watson ( @WattyRacing)
Photo’s – Neil Watson

This is an Arseonlineracing Publication – Published ; April 2022

AOLR Grand National Blog

Welcome to Arseonlineracing (AOLR). The 100% Independent racing website & Podcast, with NO affiliate links…

It’s here, we have reached the final BIG UK racing NH festival of the season & at 5.15 the race that is the most betted in the whole of the racing calendar The Grand National. We all have memories of our youth, family all picking horses from the paper & gathering around the TV to watch the Greatest Steeple Chase in the world…

before we get to that, we have a few races to get through & Yes, the 4 of us will have our Grand National thoughts, not that much has changed since we produced our Podcast, which was released on Wednesday night ( Spotify)

Charlie –

4.15 Betway Handicap Chase over 3m 210y

Selection – Killer Kane 7 year old Gelding out of Oscar and Native Idea, has had 9 races in total including sole run in a point to point at Ballycahane in March 2020 where he won by 3 lengths. Was then sent to Colin Tizard and began hurdle career at Aintree on the 25th October 2020 finishing 2nd to Real Stone, was then sent to Exeter on the 14th February 2021 and finished 4th behind winner Karl Philippe. Went back to Exeter on the 9th of March and won, beating Our Surprise by 5 and 1/2 lengths. Was then put away before embarking on a chase career on return in October 2021. Has had 5 outings over fences and has finished 3rd at Carlisle and Exeter before finishing 6th at Kempton on Boxing Day. Returned to Kempton on the 11th February this year and won, beating Valsheda by 1 and 1/2 lengths. Won on most recent start at Sandown on the 12th March when beating Flic Ou Voyou by 1 and 1/4 lengths. Killer Kane has been pretty consistent over fences with that one blip at Kempton on Boxing Day, that can be forgiven as he has shown in last 2 starts that he still has potential at this level, biggest threat to the selection comes in the shape of Scene Not Herd who has won 3 times from last 4 starts.

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6.20 Wetherby’s nhsstallions.co.uk Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race over 2m 209y

Selection –Ernest Gray 5 year old Gelding out of Walk In The Park and Emily Gray. Has had 2 starts so far and won both, beginning with a neck victory over How Will I Know at Punchestown on the 15th March 2021, won again at Warwick on the 13th March this year when beating Everyonesgame by 13 lengths. This looks tougher on paper but that last run was simply stunning, if reproducing that here could easily go in again, biggest danger to the selection comes in the shape of Rath Gaul Boy who has won his last 2 starts for W P Mullins.

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Chris –

1.45pm EFT Construction Handicap Hurdle

Serious charges went in the notebook after an easy win over this trip at Uttoxeter last month on handicap debut. He now takes a marked step-up in grade today and he will have to resume progress to land a blow. However, he’s now 3/3 over timber and a mark of 133 could still be on the lenient side for this progressive sort, who will hopefully get a good pace to aim at and cruise through the race. Shop around for extra places as he makes plenty of appeal in today’s opening contest.

3.35pm JRL Group Liverpool Hurdle

A quality renewal with 3 of the first 4 home in the Stayers Hurdle locking horns again here. I’m keeping it simple and siding with Flooring Porter to land the Spring double. He was given a superb ride by Danny Mullins at Cheltenham, and with no obvious other pace angle, may be allowed to dictate terms once more. Stayers Hurdle winners have a great record since this race was moved here and it’s usually a contest to focus on those near the head of the betting with only 1 big-priced winner over the past 10 years.

Jamie –

3:35 – JRL Group Liverpool Hurdle (G1)  

Selection: Flooring Porter 

There isn’t a lot between the three main protagonists in this year’s Liverpool Hurdle. Flooring Porter is rated two & three pounds higher than Champ and Thyme Hill respectively and I am going to stick with Gavin Cromwell’s star today. I don’t see any reason not to. It looked to my eye as if Flooring Porter won at Cheltenham with a good bit in hand and the further he goes the better he gets. I suspect Danny Mullins won’t get it as easy on the lead today as he did at Cheltenham, I don’t think Thyme Hill will be giving him much rope at all but I have faith in this horse who may well still be improving as he is only a 7yo. At 7/4 he is a decent price at the time of writing. This will be a tactically fascinating watch, if Flooring Porter gets his own way he will take all the beating.

6:20 – Weatherby nhstallions.co.uk Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (G2) 

Selection: Ernest Gray  

This looks to be a good renewal of this Grade 2 bumper with 19 runners heading to post. You have to give automatic respect to the Mullins team who send a promising duo to this contest; however, I really like the chances of Ernest Gray who won very easily at Warwick last time out. There is some substance to the form of that race too in which Ernest Grey readily cleared away to win by 13 lengths. He is the top-rated horse in this race by 4lbs and she is good value in my opinion against the favourite Rath Gaul Boy at 5/1 (at the time of writing). This is a big hike in class but Alan King doesn’t run his horses just for the sake of it. Ernest Gray shouldn’t be far away at the very least.  

Rich –

2.25 Mersey Novice Hurdle – Grade 1 – 4yo Plus – 2m 4f…
Colonel Mustard – Makifi X Waldblume 7yo gelding.
Placed in 5 of his last 6 hurdle starts, winning the other last October, when he broke his maiden at Galway over 2m 90yds by 5 & 1/2 lengths. All of his 5 placed runs have all been in Graded company. He finished 3rd & 2nd to Echoes in the Rain last April, with the RU spot coming in the Punchestown Champion Novice Hurdle. Since he landed his maiden, the gelding has finished 2nd to Jonbon in the Grade 2 Kennel Gate at Ascot ( 2 & 3/4 lengths ), a 12 length 3rd to Sir Gerhard in the Grade 1 Ireland Novice Hurdle at Punchestown & 3rd to State Man in the Grade 3 County Hurdle at Cheltenham on March 18th. He steps up in trip today from 2m to 2m 4f & wears a hood for the first time. EACH WAY.

4.15 Handicap Chase – Grade 3 – 5yo Plus – 3m 210yds…..
Tea Clipper – Stowaway X A Plus Ma Puce 7yo gelding.
A novice chaser, who landed a 2m 3f Chepstow Listed Chase on seasonal return on October 9th 2021, beating Fidelio Vallis by 3 lengths. He travelled to Newbury on November 26th, when running in a 2m 4f Grade 2 Novice Chase, finishing 2nd of 4 runners, 30 lengths behind winner, Nassalam before his final start of 2021, which was in the 3m Kauto Star Chase at Kempton on Boxing day. He finished a tailed off 4th of 4 runners, some 42 lengths behind winner, Bravemansgame. The winner, runner up ( Ahoy Senor) & 3rd (Kiltealy Briggs) have all won since. This is his 2nd run after a wind operation & last run at Cheltenham on March 15th in the Grade 3 3m Ultima Chase, finishing 4th & has been dropped 1Lb by the handicapper.. EACH WAY ( My NH AOLR Horse to follow 2021/22)

GRAND NATIONAL SELECTIONS –

Charlie – Burrows Saint is my selection for the National, finished 4th in last years race and although finished tired, has that experience under the belt and has only had 3 starts since, finishing 3rd at Clonmel, 2nd at Tramore and 3rd on most recent outing at Fairyhouse when behind Any Second Now and Escaria Ten who he faces again today. Races off same mark as last year and looks good value for a place.

Chris –

Longhouse Poet was a good winner of the Thyestes Chase in January, staying on best over 3m there. Strong form over 3m+ is always a big plus in this test and a run over hurdles to protect the handicap mark should also be noted, as seen here when he ran in the Boyne Hurdle last time out. Having had just 6 starts he perhaps lacks the experience of the typical National winner, However, he has been a sound jumper to date and a big field has proven no bother so far. The Irish have farmed this race in recent years and it would be no surprise to see that trend continue this season. As always, shop around for best place terms.

Jamie –

Selection: Fiddlerontheroof  

As I mentioned in our podcast the other day it always helps to have a horse in the Grand National that has a touch of class and I feel Fiddlerontheroof has a great chance of getting in the mix. Colin Tizzard’s 8yo has re-found his mojo this campaign with a win and two close seconds. Those two seconds came in good races, including the Ladbrokes Trophy over 3m 2f and last time out at Ascot to Fortescue, who I also fancy today at an each way price. This has been the big target for Fiddlerontheroof all season and his temperament gives him every chance of staying the marathon trip, whilst the ground offers no excuses at all. He is a solid jumper too and with a bit of luck I don’t think he’ll be far away. The Tizzard stable are in decent form at the moment.  

Rich –

Eclair Surf – Califet X Matasurf 8yo gelding.
First Grand National & first try over National fences. Fell on seasonal return at Bangor in the 3m class 2 Handicap Chase, won by Snow Leopradess in November. Finished 3rd in the Welsh Grand National Trial at Chepstow in December by 35 lengths to winner, Iwilldoit before landing the Warwick 3m 5f Handicap Chase in January. His last run was on February 26th at Newcastle in the 4m 1f Eider Handicap Chase, when finishing 2nd to 7 length Scottish Grand National winner, Win My Wings by 1 & 3/4 lengths. Runs from a mark of 144, which is due to go up 4 next time out & Carries just 10s 6lbs….

That is it for the AOLR NH season coverage, although I’m sure we will have some more from Ireland soon enough. The Flat will officially back very soon & Easter weekend is the All Weather Championships from Newcastle!
Thanks to everyone who sent us a NH horse to follow, we look forward to 22/23 season! Finally, thanks to all of you for popping by & for your support, we really appreciate it.

All the Best – The Arseonlineracing Team

10 Years On From Auntie – Neil Watson

It’s scarcely hard to believe that this upcoming Saturday will be the tenth Grand National although technically ninth due to the 2020 one not happening for obvious reasons that the big race will have not been broadcast on BBC television.
The decision to put all of the rights for live horse racing on terrestrial television were put into one collective group and tendered out for a sole broadcaster as opposed to the old days of how it used to be.

Channel Four successfully did four of them from 2013 to 2016 and since 2017 we have had ITV as the flag bearer for one of the most popular races in the British racing calendar.

Many things still happen though which make this race what it is from the title music of the film ‘Champions’ composed by Carl Davis to the replay after the race which gives you a chance to either enjoy again or suffer even more slowly depending if you have backed the winner or picked one out in the office sweep that went down on the first and to what is becoming an even more expected sight and sound which is hearing Ian Bartlett call them over the signature fences of Becher’s, Foinavon, Canal Turn and Valentines.

Of those races we have seen some wonderful stories and here are three of my personal ones in random order.

2019, Tiger Roll.

I have attended only two Grand National’s in my lifetime and this was the most recent one when i saw sporting history be created on Merseyside as Tiger Roll became the first horse since Red Rum in 1974 to land back to back Grand National’s, To be at Aintree to witness this first hand up in the main stands was simply divine and showed sport at it’s very best.

While recent events have meant we will never see if he could have equalled what Rummy did it is still good to see that it potentially can be done providing you have the right horse who loves the green fences.

2017, One For Arthur.

The Saltire was flying high for the first ITV Grand National as Kinross based trainer Lucinda Russell joined Sue Smith, Venetia Williams and Jenny Pitman as the only women to have trained the winner of the Grand National as One For Arthur in the colours of Two Golf Widows who went out onto the second circuit towards the rear of the field but came home under Derek Fox to land the spoils after picking his rivals off one by one.

I remember being at Aintree that season for the 2016 Becher Chase and he went down in my notebook as a National horse and the way he overtook the field to cruise into contention was steeplechasing at it’s finest, he may never have won another race after this but that afternoon he was a joy to watch.

2013, Auroras Encore.

A race which heralded a new era for the world’s most famous steeplechase.

Firstly a new broadcaster in Channel Four and secondly the old timber frames of the fences had been replaced during the winter with plastic ones to make a more safety conscious type of race, the spruce grown in the Lake District remained on the outside but the inner core was now designed to be much safer to horses should they hit the frame of the obstacle.

Now this may seem like a case of ten year after timing but I don’t care, I have different reasons for this.

Back in 2016 I lost one of my best friends, Nigel, to lung cancer, like myself he loved his racing and we spent many a nice afternoon at Haydock which was our local course plus trips to other courses like Aintree, York and even Hamilton and Kelso together, it was actually York on a reciprocal coach trip that we actually met and began our friendship which lasted right until he headed up to the great racecourse in the sky.

The week before this one we were at the Easter Saturday meeting at Haydock and were chatting around the paddock as usual about who we fancied for the National, I actually said Auroras Encore could go well because for a few seasons in a row he won a race in April and I had a feeling he might have an each way squeak at least.

Come National day I was at home but Nigel and his wife June were both up at Newcastle for a racing break and like everyone else had a few bets and sat down to watch it during the break between races.

Eventually when I finally calmed down after being in a mix of excitement, shock and surprise at backing a 66-1 winner of the Grand National I got my phone to text Nigel.

Nigel himself had just mentioned to June that I spoke of Auroras Encore the week before and that he hoped I’d remembered to back him, like many I can talk myself out of backing a horse but this time I had and although it was only a couple of quid I was in absolute ecstasy, a few moments though after he had mentioned this the text came through with the good news and although he had no luck in the race himself he was made up for me with that “Good on you” smile that I can still picture to this day.

For the Sue and Harvey Smith team though this was a great result for northern racing especially over jumps and showed that if you give a trainer a decent horse then they can get you the ultimate result, the interview with Harvey from the much missed and very much respected Tom O’Ryan is worth watching for that alone.

It’s true when they say that behind every Grand National winner their is a story behind it, even if it is a horse that was won for an owner with multiple entries like JP McManus or Gigginstown, it is the story that helps sell the race and shows that no matter who you are in life you can still dare to dream in the world of horse racing.

As for this Saturday who knows what will happen come 5.15pm, will we see Oli Bell or Alice Plunkett in floods of tears as Two For Gold or Snow Leopardess go in?

Could we see another win for JP or Gigginstown? or will a horse that has completely been ignored by everyone go in at a price that’ll send the bookmakers dining out at The Ivy while, punters are left looking for the yellow reduced stickers in the nearest supermarket to get something for tea in the evening?

In a world that is in something of a quagmire at the moment we can hopefully be able to take fifteen minutes out of our lives this Saturday
and enjoy the sound and spectacle of a horse race which takes on a roller-coaster ride that even Alton Towers would struggle to make a carbon copy of.

Neil with Grand National winning Jockey Rachael Blackmore ( Right)

Article – Neil Watson ( @WattyRacing )

An Arseonlineracing Publication – Published April 2022

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Preview YouTube video Champions-Music by Carl Davis

Champions-Music by Carl DavisPreview YouTube video 2019 Randox Health Grand National – Tiger Roll | Racing TV2019 Randox Health Grand National – Tiger Roll | Racing TVPreview YouTube video ONE FOR ARTHUR becomes only the second Scottish-trained winner of the Grand National in 2017ONE FOR ARTHUR becomes only the second Scottish-trained winner of the Grand National in 2017

Scottish Grand National & More!

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Interesting that the Scottish Grand National at Ayr is a week before the Grand National at Aintree ( And yes there will be a AOLR Podcast for the Grand National).
The flat started last week at Doncaster (On the Turf ) but the only Flat racing in the UK today is on the All Weather, with Turf Flat racing coming from Leopardstown in Ireland with Trials day & the Group 3 Ballysax Stakes up for grabs….

Ayr, Newbury, Chepstow (NH). Lingfield & Wolverhampton (AW) & Leopardstown (Flat) are the fixtures today. With ALL 4 of us blogging today, we will have 4 selections for the Scottish Grand National at 3.35 & a selection from from the other meetings!

Charlie –

Ayr 2.25 Coral Scottish Champion Hurdle Grade 2 over 2m

Selection – Barrichello – 6 year old Gelding out of Gentle Wave and Tambourine Ridge, has had 10 runs over hurdles winning 4 times from last 5 starts, after having wind surgery, had placed 2nd in previous 5 races prior to that and should be bang there come business end of this race if showing same attitude today. The main threat to the selection comes in the shape of Onemorefortheroad who has won 5 of his 10 runs over hurdles.

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5.15 Prestwick Open National Hunt Flat Race over 2m

Selection – Jimmy’s Jet – 6 year old Gelding out of Jet Away and Southway Queen, has had just one career start and that came here on the 25th October last year when beating Jack Of All Shapes by 3 and 1/4 lengths with Haut Berry a further 6 lengths adrift in 3rd. Wears a tongue tie for todays race and has changed yards since that win, although this looks a bit deeper than that last race showed enough ability to get the win. The biggest danger to the selection comes in the shape of Call Me Harry had won twice before pulling up at Cheltenham last time out.

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Chris –

Ayr

3.00 Jordan Electrics Ltd Future Champion Novices Chase

Do Your Job has run admirably in some fair contests this season, using that experience to win a handicap at Newcastle over this trip in February. He escapes a penalty today unlike some of his rivals and a mark of 144 gives his leading claims back in open company, should he continue to progress. Looks versatile regarding the ground and should get a decent pace to aim at today.

Leopardstown

3.45 PW McGrath Ballysax Stakes

Piz Badile caught my eye when breaking his maiden tag at Killarney at the first time of asking. He then wasn’t seen for over 3 months before running here in the Eyrefield Stakes over 9f at the end of the season. He just came up short there on the run-in, finishing a close 2nd, despite hitting trouble in running against the rail. His fitness may need to be taken on trust today, but looks the ideal type for some success over middle distances in 2022, starting today!

Scottish Grand National – Ayr – 3.35 – Grade 3 Handicap Chase – 4m

Charlie – Major Dundee is the one I’m siding with in this race, has won 2 of his 3 starts since going chasing and finished 2nd in the other, this 7 year old Gelding out of Scorpion looks to be the real deal and if maintaining that kind of form today could easily go in again. The biggest threat is Win My Wings who has 3 wins from last 5 starts

Chris –

Irish raider Stormy Judge has proven popular in the betting over the last 24 hours, and I won’t let that put me off here. His best performance came a year ago when showing bags of stamina to win on heavy ground over 3 miles. After a below par comeback he showed more last time out when 5th in the Leinster National. It’s not hard to think one of these big end of season contests have been the plan for some time. He encounters better ground today, but he could come alive over this test, with Danny Mullins looking for another big race win this term.

Jamie –

Selection: Fantastikas

The annual cavalry charge around Ayr for Scotland’s great race sees 23 horses lining up. You can give some sort of a chance to every runner and the one I like is Fantastikas for the Twiston Davies combination. The Imperial Racing owned 7yo is enjoying a solid campaign, with two wins, a second and a third. He didn’t quite fire at Cheltenham where he was always on the back foot in the Ultima and eventually plugged on for 7th. I believe the step up in trip, which connections obviously think he will cope with may suit him as this will be run at a less frantic pace. The best piece of form Fantastikas brings to the table is his 3rd in the Dipper, the winner L’Homme Presse took the Browns at Cheltenham and the 4th Oscar Elite ran a big race in the Albert Bartlett when third. I like this horse at an each way price on ground that will suit him. Trainer has a good record in this race too…

*Each way advised*

Rich –

Cool Mix -Fair Mix X LucyLou 10yo gelding.
2 wins & 9 places from 19 chase starts & was last seen on February 5th at Musselburgh, when a 5 length runner up to Glen Forsa in a Class 3 2m 6f Conditional Jockeys Handicap.
That was his 4th run in a year, since finishing 5th of 22 over C&D in this race, 8 & 1/4 lengths behind the winner. Was running a nice race until a mistake at the 21st fence but regained himself to run on well for 5th.
That was his first run over 3m & his only other start over 3m, was in October at Cheltenham, when 3rd by 10 & 1/2 lengths to Definite Plan over 3m 1f.
He carries 10s 4lb & a claimer takes off an extra 7lb & has a first time Tongue Tie. His last win was from a mark of 126 & tomorrow runs from 125..

Jamie –

1:35 – Play Pick 6 at BetVictor Novices Handicap Hurdle

Selection: Mot A Mot

Trainer Sam Thomas has inherited Mot A Mot from Nicky Henderson and he could be poised to strike today. The 6yo has only raced six times to date and is still worth giving a chance. Mot A Mot was highly tried last time out in a trial for the Ballymore at Cheltenham which Hillcrest won that day. My selection found it all too much and eventually faded into a well beaten sixth. These are calmer waters today and off what could be a generous weight off 10st 10lb, I think he has a solid chance. I like the angle of that this is his first run after having a wind op, which will hopefully do the trick. The good ground may even bring out more improvement too.

3:45 – P.W. McGrath Memorial Ballysax Stakes (G3) 

Selection: Bluegrass

This looks to be a wide open renewal of the Ballysax as the road to Epsom begins. Aidan O’Brien has an outstanding record in this race, helped by the fact he has won the last three editions. He sends Bluegrass to Leopardstown today and this beautifully bred Galileo Colt has been working well on the gallops apparently. Bluegrass ran three times in his Juvenile career which saw him a Curragh Maiden and then finished a far from disgraced third in the Zetland at Newmarket. We all know how much the Galileo’s can improve from 2 to 3 and with that in mind I can’t see this horse being far away. Aidan likes to send one of his big Derby hopefuls to this and Ryan Moore has chosen Bluegrass over stablemate Scriptwriter. There is a lot to like.

Rich –

Leopardstown
3.10 Priory Bell 1,000 Guineas Trial Stakes – 3yo Only – Fillies’ Group 3 – 7f…
Agartha – Caravaggio X Ayra Tara filly.
A very busy filly in 2021, running 8 times between May & October, with it taking 5 runs to break her maiden, running over 5 & 1/2f & 6f before finally winning over 7f (C&D) in the Group 3 Silver Flash Stakes on July 22nd by 2 & 3/4 lengths from Juncture. Before her maiden win, the Caravaggio filly had finished 3rd, 3rd, 2nd ( to Sacred Bridge) & 2nd ( Homeless Songs).
A month later on August 21st, she won her 2nd race, when beating Sunset Shiraz in the 7f Group 2 Alpha Centauri Debutante Stakes at the Curragh. September 12th, the filly ran in the 7f Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh, finishing a 3/4 length runner up to Discoveries.
Her final start was in France at Longchamp, on very soft ground, when finishing a 5 length 4th in the 1m Prix Marcel Boussac to Zellie.
This is her seasonal return & she has to give the field 3lb.
Dangers could come from the lightly raced Contarelli Chapel (2 runs) & Sacred Bridge (8th in G1 Cheveley Park Stakes) & both step up in trip.

St-Cloud
3.25 Edmond Blanc Stakes – Group 3 – 4yo Plus – 1m
The Revenant – Dubawi X Hazel Lavery 7yo gelding.
Top Rated 116. Finished 3rd in this race last season, just 1 length behind winner, Wally & runner up Duhail, with Wally winning a G3 1m 2f race in May & Duhail, landing a C&D G2 in May & finished 2nd on 3 other starts.
The Revenant ran 3 more times after his 3rd in this race, finishing 4th to Duhail, 2nd to Real World (Both in G2 company) before finishing 4th to Baaeed in the G1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot in October. Unlike last season, he has had a run this term, when winning a C&D Listed race on March 10th by 3 lengths.
Has 4 C&D wins from 6 C&D runs.

That’s everything for you today folks, thanks for popping by & being 1 of the 3,000+ that have visited our website in the first 3 months of the year!
Our Podcasts have also been quite popular & I can confirm that the 4 of us will be on the Grand National Podcast, which is being recorded on Wednesday evening! That will be fun!

All the Best – The Arseonlineracing Team