1st November

Ascot 1.35 "BET LIVE" @WILLIAMHILL.CO.UK HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 2) (4yo+)

The first race in the Scoop 6 is a 16 runner handicap, which has 4 last time out winners. The pick of these probably is Font, a Paul Nicholls horse ridden by AP Mccoy it’s the thing of dreams. Font is up 13lbs for his demolition of a Novice Handicap Hurdle field at Cheltenham, however he did that very easily and could have won by any amount, Ruby that day only shook the reins at him when close home. That form alone gives him leading chances in this field, add to that the pairing of trainer and jockey and I think he has to be a selection. The dangers will probably come from low down in the handicap, Leamington Lad won nicely at Cheltenham when putting a large field away in convincing style and looks set to run his race. Laredo Sound was a classy novice last season, and the Mann yard are in good form so any market support would be worth a second glance. Whilst at the top of the handicap is The Polomoche and Blue Bajan who both had very nice wins last time out, they look to be too heavily weighted in this field. The final danger could be I Have Dreamed who was a nice sort last season and still looks nicely weighted - JB.

Selection: Font
Danger 1: I Have Dreamed
Danger 2: Laredo Sound

Ascot 2.05 UNITED HOUSE GOLD CUP HANDICAP CHASE (CLASS 2) (4yo+)

Air Force One reappears for the season and is the youngster of the field. Still improving he is chosen as the selection. Should there be an upset it is likely to come from Gungadu, C&D winner with the imperious McCoy taken to get him round. Alternatively the best fresh Roll Along and carries the least weight off the main contenders. Madison Du Berlais is also on the shortlist with Fier Normand however both lack the required class and Air Force One is chosen as the selection - AR.

Selection: Air Force One
Danger 1: Gungadu
Danger 2: Roll Along

Newmarket 2:10 BET365.COM EBF MONTROSE FILLIES' STAKES (LISTED RACE) (CLASS 1) (2yo)

Henry Cecil won this race 2 years ago with Passage Of Time and he saddles another Khalid Abdullah runner here in the form of Midday. A course and distance winner but in nothing like this class of race, she should get the trip again but has never raced on less than good ground. Godolphin run Burgundy Ice who is a half sister to Bernardini, who has only raced once. That win came on soft ground at 7f so a step up in class and trip shouldn’t hinder her. Godolphin seem a better prospect than earlier in the season. Could be in the frame. Conditions should suit Rosy Mantle who has been Listed placed this season. She stayed on well in soft ground in her last race which looks good for the extra furlong being faced here. Super Sleuth has run in higher company but found a few too good so a slight drop in class from last time will help. All her runs have come on good ground or better so softer conditions are an unknown. Enticement, in the Royal silks, won on debut over the mile in soft ground at Nottingham. That race was only class 5 so will have to show marked improvement here - VE.

Selection: Rosy Mantle
Danger 1: Super Sleuth
Danger 2: Burgundy Ice

Wetherby 3.00 JOHN SMITH'S HURDLE (REGISTERED AS THE WEST YORKSHIRE HURDLE) GRADE 2 (CLASS 1) (4yo+)

Nigel Twiston Davies has come out firing again this season and Pettifour therefore has to be respected. You can't say the same for the Pipe horse, Lough Derg. The talent is there but will improve for the run. Mobaasher is the Nicholls runner as is reported to be well after a breathing operation at home. You never can tell though and it could be a risky proposition, like Lough Derg, he is probably best watched. Liberate and Faasel are the other two main contenders but I side with Pettifour and Twiston Davis to continue his fine run of form - AR.

Selection: Pettifour
Danger 1: Mobaasher
Danger 2: Lough Derg

Newmarket 3:20 BET365 BEST ODDS GUARANTEED ON EVERY RACE HANDICAP (CLASS 2) (3yo+,0-100)

18 runners are entered for this 1 mile handicap at Newmarket and leading the weights is Godolphin’s Gold Sovereign who is entitled to be short in the market. His handicap form is rock solid and a wide draw should do him no harm, however the weight he is carrying makes the job a difficult one. Lower in the weights we have Oat Cuisine who has David Probert claiming a useful 5lbs, she has good handicap form and is likely to relish a return to course and distance. Others that are of interest include the twice raced Lease Of Life who comes here on handicap debut off a mark I think is on the high side. Henry Cecil sends Aromatheraphy who has good speed figures and is open to more improvement. Flipando is another interesting runner but may struggle in this big field. The selection however ran a good race despite not getting the breaks just 7 days ago, Vital Statistics. She has only raced over the trip once, and ran very creditably in the Guineas that time. She has been staying on well recently over 6 and 7 furlongs and is very nicely weighted - JB.

Selection: Vital Statistics
Danger 1: Oat Cuisine
Danger 2: Gold Sovereign

Newmarket 3:55 BET365 BEN MARSHALL STAKES (LISTED RACE) (CLASS 1) (3yo+)

Another Listed contest here see’s a few familiar faces from this season lining up. Bankable is out to end a run of 5 second place finishes. The drop in trip to a mile won’t be any trouble as he has put in some of his better performances over that distance. He has had a long hard season and the effects catching up with him would be my biggest concern. Cat Junior ran a cracker 2 weeks ago in a Group 2 race. That was at 7f and seemed optimum so the extra furlong on this ground would be a worry. Godolphin are 3 handed here with Alexandros the preferred one on jockey bookings. Won over a mile last time and has raced in the highest company so this Listed race should hold no fear. Frankie is flying so in with a live chance. The other 2 Godolphin runners are suspect. Calming Influence looks like he doesn’t get the trip while Dijeerr went through a spell of not wanting to win. His last run was terrible. Virtual won a Listed contest last time out over 1m1f. The ground will be ideal for him and has won over a mile in the past. John Gosden is fresh from his Breeders’ Cup exploits and should have another in with a chance here - VE.

Selection: Bankable
Danger 1: Virtual
Danger 2: Alexandros

Selections:

1. Font
2. Air Force One
3. Rosy Mantle
4. Pettifour
5. Vital Statistics
6. Bankable

October 25th - Fallout

Another week passes and it's another frustrating time. Some well fancied selections didn't perform while some others ran crackers. Here's the highlights.

Race 1: Danger 2 the best in 4th
Race 2: The selection was 2nd at a nice price
Race 3: Danger 2 the best in 5th
Race 4: Danger 1 wins
Race 5: The selction was 2nd
Race 6: Danger 2 the best in 4th

Another roll over next Saturday so good luck.

25th October

Newbury 2:10 Mountgrange Stud Stakes (Group 3) (Colts & Geldings) (2yo) 7f

A nice little 2 year old Group 3 contest to start off with this week. Lets hope it’s a winning start! Richard Hannon has been in sparkling form this season, especially with his 2 year olds and he runs 2 of them in this contest. Bonnie Charlie is the mount of Richard Hughes. He’s stepping up in trip to 7f having previously won over 5 and 6. A close 2nd over the shortest trip behind Finjaan is promising form given Finjaan’s great effort in the Dewhurst last week. The ground won’t be a problem either so will be in amongst it if he gets the trip. Lucky Redback is the second Hannon horse. He’s taking a big step up in class but does get the trip. He won’t want it too soft judging by his last performance. Cry Of Freedom is a Listed winner over course and distance. The going was the same for that win as is predicted for Saturday. Has had disappointing efforts on his last 2 runs when he was 8th in the Group 3 Solario Stakes and then well down the field in the Tattersall’s Million. Nasri finished 3rd in the latter of those races. That was his first effort at 7f and he was not disgraced. The winner of that race is running at the Breeders Cup. No concerns over the ground for him and will hopefully have come on for that run. Others of interest are Jobe and Rileyskeepingfaith. The former has contested higher grade races but over a furlong shorter. He was 3rd in the Gimcrack transferred to Newbury beating home the likes of Art Connoisseur and Marine Boy. The one horse he beat home in the Middle Park Stakes was Finjaan, so lines can be drawn with Bonnie Charlie. Rileyskeepingfaith has been suited by the step up to 7f. 2 wins and a 2nd place finish behind Wingwalker put him right in the picture. So with lots in with a chance selecting the winner is as tricky as ever. - VE

Selection: Nasri
Danger 1: Jobe
Danger 2: Rileyskeepingfaith


2:25 CORAL.CO.UK HANDICAP (CLASS 2) (3yo+,0-100) 5f GOOD

A wide open handicap over the straight 5 furlongs, and I think the draw is going to be all important. The 6 furlong race on Friday was dominated by those drawn high, and I see no reason for the draw to switch around. Therefore I am going to concentrate on those drawn 15 and above, starting with stall 22 the horse nearest the rail. That horse is Fantasy Explorer who loves good ground and a good quick sprint, having won over 6 furlongs before being eased out last time. Having the rail could well be really important here and going with the pace he should get really close to winning this. Also going with the early pace will be the Scoop6 blog favourite Captain Dunne who was my selection when 3rd and then one of Anubisrich’s dangers when finishing 3rd again last time. He should make this a proper test and will drag those drawn high along at a breakneck pace. If these go off to quickly then the danger could well be The Jobber who comes from off the pace. He is on a handy mark and looks sure to run his race once again.
There are others of massive interest but they are drawn low, including the likely favourite Cheveton. - JB

Selection: Fantasy Explorer
Danger 1: Captain Dunne
Danger 2: The Jobber

Doncaster 15:00 Racingpost.com Doncaster Stakes (Listed) (2yo)

Sayif is the class horse here and has shown great consistency recently. Almost impossible to oppose, the only possible negative is if the jockey tries his glory seeking fast finish but leaves it too late. You could argue that the horse can’t get his nose in front but those who have conquered him read like a whos who of 2yo talent this season. Bushranger (running later at the Breeders Cup meeting), Lord Shanakill (gutsy performance last weekend in the G1 Dewhurst) and Orizaba. The winning margin hasn’t been significant, that could mean the horse is classy, it could also mean the horse doesn’t want to win. This will be the selection but a couple of others represent better value for money.The race for second will probably come from exposed types Favourite Girl and Able Master and unexposed Dark Mischief, Enderby Spirit and Hartley. Experience was useful last weekend in the Dewhurst after a battling finish, I’m not sure it will be this weekend. Of these I select Favourite Girl who performed well in similar conditions last time out, only just going down by a short head and should go well here. The unexposed horses are not only lightly raced but haven’t been campaigned anywhere near the highest level. Their form is therefore untested but I expect to see one in the mixer and Dark Mischief, after a long layoff could be targeted for this and is fresh enough to strike - AR.

Selection: Sayif
Danger 1: Favourite Girl
Danger 2: Dark Mischief

3:20 E B F INKERMAN LONDON FILLIES' HANDICAP (CLASS 3) (3yo+,0-95) 7f GD-SFT

This is a dire race, which could be won by any 1 of 19 horses! The race once again revolves around the draw for me, with those drawn high being favoured. The selection is going to be one at a massive price, Badweia, the horse is only 2lbs higher than its best winning mark and looked in good form when winning in first time blinkers. She is lowly rated and looks likely to run a good race, drawn highest and has plenty going for her. The dangers are vast, with the once raced Cosmopolitan, the lightly raced Danae both having leading claims. However my dangers are also at massive prices, the first being Izzibizzi, she finally got her head in front last time out on the All Weather. She carries bottom weight and is on a very nice weight if her run in a sales race as a two year old is anything to go by. The other danger being put forward is also drawn high, and is an even bigger price. Folly Lodge is 3lbs higher than her winning handicap mark, and has gradually fallen down the weights this season. She runs well at this course and is entitled to show improved form off a 3lbs lower weight. - JB

Selection: Badweia
Danger 1: Izzibizzi
Danger 2: Folly Lodge

Doncaster 15:35 Racing Post Trophy (Group 1) (2yo)

One of the highlights of the 2yo season and we start with Sri Putra, a surprise declaration and therefore one that should be respected. Disappointed last time out but should be suited to this extra furlong. However, will likely set the pace and leave it open to fast finishing types. Masterofthehorse is likely to be one of these but shapes as if 8f is too short. You can never discount an O’Brien mount but with the big man focussing on bigger challengers a few thousand miles away this could be another G1 just out of reach. Marching Time will also attempt to come off the pace and this is Stoute’s mount. Narrow margin of victory in a class 4 does not inspire but certainly finished as if the mile was needed. Much improvement required but a possibility.My fancy is Jukebox Jury, this Montjeu grey was a fine victor over DG at Ascot and after a month’s break seems primed for this. Shouldn’t find trouble on this straight track and will not have a better chance at G1 glory. Crowded House is an improver and has earned his attempt here. Spencer will either be full of confidence after guiding Sayif to victory in the previous race or nervous after messing things up. If it’s the former then will be a big player, I think he will find a couple too good though. Red Spider, unlike Marching Time, was impressive last time out in a lower class and could have won by further. Obviously more improvement is required and lack of experience could be a negative on the big occasion but the stable is in great recent form as well as having a fantastic season - AR.

Selection: Jukebox Jury
Danger 1: Red Spider
Danger 2: Masterofthehorse

Newbury 3:55 Play Blackjack At Intercasino.co.uk Stakes (Listed) (Fillies) (2yo) 7f

We started with the 2year old colts and finish with this Listed contest for 2 year old fillies. Honest Quality is one I’m very keen on. Won at Listed level last time over 7f and carries a 3lbs penalty as a result. That shouldn’t have too much bearing on her performance though as I’d be hopeful of further improvement from that display. She’s the one to beat in my eyes but what of the others? There are 3 once raced unbeaten fillies in this. Cashleen, Club Tahiti and Enact. The first and last’s victories came over 6f on good to firm ground. The furlong further and softer conditions may stretch their stamina. Club Tahiti’s win was over course and distance on good to soft. There are 6 others in the field that have wins to their name over the 7f distance. They are La Adelita, Nora Mae, Purple Sage, Seradim, Such Optimist and Yorksters Girl. None of which were in anything like this class. A couple to pick out are Seradim, who has been Listed placed, Purple Sage, who was not disgraced in the Rockfel Stakes, and Summer Fete, who finished 4th in a Group 3 last time out. - VE

Selection: Honest Quality
Danger 1: Seradim
Danger 2: Club Tahiti

1. Nasri

2. Fantasy Explorer

3. Sayif

4. Badweia

5. Jukebox Jury

6. Honest Quality

October 18th - Fallout

It turned out just as difficult as the previous week (think I'll get used to writing that) with another roll over due. Here's how we did.

Race 1 - Danger 2 won with the selection in 3rd.
Race2 - Danger 2 won.
Race 3 - The selection faired best in 6th.
Race 4 - Danger 2 was 4th.
Race 5 - Danger 1 was 3rd.
Race 6 - The selection was 2nd with danger 2 in 4th.

Thanks for contributing to the poll on the hurdlers. There will be another this Saturday and hopefully a few winners.

18th October

Newmarket 2:05 Victor Chandler Challenge Stakes (Group 2) (3yo+) 7f

A competitive Group 2 to start off with on Saturday. There are plenty in with a shout of winning this. First up Major Cadeaux. The Hannon/Hughes partnership can do no wrong at the minute. This fellow has run some good races but also been found wanting like last time out, although I don’t feel the ride by Moore was one of his best. The mile seems just too far, so running over 7f will suit. The ground shouldn’t be a problem either. Il Warrd won in Listed company last time over 7f and on good ground. He has been beaten by Paco Boy on a couple of occasions who has since tasted Group 1 glory. Godolphin are doing better than earlier in the year and should be in the final shake up here. The forecast favourite is Stimulation who finished ahead of Il Warrd in one of the races won by Paco Boy. A course and distance winner, although he hasn’t won since, the ground won’t hinder his live chance. Laa Rayb from the Mark Johnston stable is well bred. A half brother to Kheleyf, he has victories over this distance and further. His last two runs were on soft and I’m hoping that the better ground brings a change of fortune. Of the others Al Qasi has been a consistent performer at this level, although others hold stronger chances - VE.

Selection: Laa Rayb
Danger 1: Major Cadeaux
Danger 2: Stimulation


Cheltenham 2.20 Royal Gloucestershire Hussars "Help For Heroes" Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) (4yo+)

A tough race for the punter with many runners holding chances. The race somewhat revolves around Fair Along who is a classy individual who has pace to burn and has some nice runs over hurdles and fences in his form. He finished 2nd to Detroit City in the Triumph Hurdle of 2006 and beat My Way De Solzen by 10 lengths over the fences. He however is weighted to the hilt, running off a mark of 140 and has not been seen over hurdles since March 2007. Others look to be better handicapped, including Thunder Rock, Mirage Dore and Bantry Bere. I think the race revolves around these three, the former Thunder Rock from the stable of Jonjo O’Neil has beaten Bantry Bere already this year and whilst held off this mark since he looks one to improve further. Bantry Bere is well held by Thunder Rock on form and has to be taken on whilst Mirage Dore won last time out. That run was a nice effort and whilst up 7lbs for that win he is still open to plenty of improvement. The other notable runners are Pacha D’Oudairies from the Nicholls yard and Timpo from the Daly yard.
Pacha D’Oudaires is the selection, he is a very nice sort who proved his worth well a good 4th in a listed handicap hurdle at Aintree. He was not straight forward last season as he hung left on occasions, he is now 5 years of age and we can trust that he has trained on. He would not need to be the yards best horse to win this and is put forward as the nomination - JB.

Selection: Pacha D’Oudaires
Danger 1: Thunder Rock
Danger 2: Mirage Dore


Newmarket 2:35 Darley Dewhurst Stakes (Group 1) (Entire Colts & Fillies) (Class 1) (2yo)

Where to start? This race has been won by some excellent horses in recent years, most notably Rock of Gibralter and New Approach. Jim Bolger also won it the year before with the ill fated Teofilo and sends out Intense Focus here, that horse is not of the same quality and, although consistent, will find a few too good.

Rip Van Winkle, head of the Guineas ante post market, will be a worthy favourite although there are some holes in the form. Delegator has good form behind Wingwalker but Ashram devastated him in a fantastic time in the course and distance G3 contest last time out. Huntdown should find the step up in trip more suitable but this is a more classy affair and he could find it a struggle.

Richard Hannon's amazing 2yo season continues and he sends out the well travelled Soul City here. I think it has a great chance but the less exposed types make more interest - AR.

Selection: Ashram
Danger 1: Rip Van Winkle
Danger 2: Soul City

Cheltenham 3:25 Dick Francis "Silks" Handicap Chase (Class 2) (4yo+)

Another tough handicap from Cheltenham this time over the big fences. The race for me revolves around the handicap form of Celestial Gold, who is the class horse in the race. He however is better over further than this 2 miles 4 furlongs, and whilst the uphill finish will see him put his stamina to the fore I think he will have too much to find. Those well handicapped also include Yes Sir and Calatagan who have little to find on previous handicap form. The former was well held on his last run off this mark whilst the latter had a terrible season last year. Therefore I will side with the unexposed Sou’Wester who looks in need of this step up in distance, should he fail to get home I would expect Fier Normand and Private Bee to closer to first than last.
The selection in this very tough handicap is Sou’Wester - JB.

Selection: Sou’Wester
Danger 1: Fier Normand
Danger 2: Private Bee


Catterick 3:35 totescoop6 Catterick Dash (Handicap Stakes) (Class 3) (3yo+)

Hotham and Fol Follow have form from last time out, Hotham winning nicely and receiving weight in this instance. Should have no problem in holding that form here. Hotham also represented himself well earlier on in the season in the Glenigan Sprint Handicap. Judge N Jury won that race and Hotham's 8th was barely half a length back. The weight difference is even more pronounced here giving Hotham his best chance to reverse that form.

Captain Dunne, JB's selection last week, is back to form after trailing in last behind Judge N Jury earlier on in the season. The handicapper has got hold of him now and I expect he will fade again in the last furlong as the weight takes it's toll.

Secret Asset and Misaro are two others who will be there or thereabout. The former showing consistency after a break, the latter showing well but nothing that sticks out. The last one of interest is Total Impact who has had a break and Fahey does have a way with handicaps, if he can recapture early season form he will be right in there - AR.

Selection: Hotham
Danger 1: Captain Dunne
Danger 2: Total Impact

Newmarket 3:50 Totesport.com Cesarewitch (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) (3yo+) 2m2f

Right, let’s get the pin out shall we? It looks an impossible puzzle to solve with 35 due to line up, although trends may give us a clue about where to start. It’s hard to imagine that the draw has that much of a bearing on things considering the distance involved. However in the last 10 runnings the winner has been in stall 17 or higher. Not good news for favourite backers as Askar Tau is drawn in 14. He comes into this on a run of 5 victories but none over this mamouth trip. Last years winner, Leg Spinner, is next to Askar Tau in stall 15. Carrying top weight will be a big burden, although the jockey takes off a handy 3lbs. Could make the places. Gee Dee Nen is the mount of Frankie Dettori. Drawn in the higher numbers this one has been consistant over 2 miles in Class 2 handicaps, should go close. Arc Bleu has won over a greater distance and his last run on the AW was just a pipe opener. Not a great weight to carry either, with a top jock on board, so one to watch. Others who have won over the race distance are Missoula, Four Miracles, Kasthari and Mighty Moon. The latter would have the best chance of those 4. Liberate has stamina on his side although the was beaten by Missoula at Ascot. I could mention every horse but I feel the winner will come from those already stated. Good luck people, and the pin lands on……. - VE.

Selection: Arc Bleu
Danger 1: Gee Dee Nen
Danger 2: Askar Tau

1. Laa Rayb
2. Pacha D’Oudaires
3. Ashram
4. Sou’Wester
5. Hotham
6. Arc Bleu

October 11th - Fallout

It was a difficult day on Saturday with some large field handicaps. Not surprisingly the Scoop 6 rolls over again. Lets hope we can do better next week.

Race 1: The dangers came in 6th and 5th respectively.

Race 2: The selection faired best in 8th.

Race 3: All the 3 selections in the top 6. Danger 2 came 3rd. The winner was mention but dismissed!

Race 4: The selection ran a cracker and came 3rd, with danger 2 in 4th.

Race 5: Danger 2 overturns the selection.

Race 6: The selection was a non-runner while the dangers were out of the frame.

Thanks to all those who participated in the poll. There will be another one next week and hopefully some Scoop6 success.

11th October

Musselburgh 2:10 National Express Reserve Handicap (Consolation race for 3.15) (Class 2) (3yo+)

The consolidation race Sprint Cup handicap which runs at 3.15. The field of 17 is covered by 11lbs in the handicap with 3 year olds getting a weight for age allowance of 3lbs. The draw bias at Musselburgh is low (6 of last 9 big field winners over the trip have come from single figure draws) and the winners normally race prominently. The obvious place to start is Princess Ellis, who won a big field course and distance race from stall 14 this season, she pinged out and tracked across to the stands rail (low draws). This race is much better than that one and she is running from much higher in the handicap (18lbs), she however is in great form and looks the proverbial good thing. Green Park who is drawn high looks set to run a big race, beaten last time by Captain Dunne but showed good form and is 2lbs lower than his career best winning mark, he goes with the pace and looks likely to appreciate the return to turf. If these two cut each other’s throats then How’s She Cuttin’ could prosper, she normally runs from off the pace and is open to more improvement. Others to note are Avertuoso (10lbs lower than best winning mark) and Geojimali (1lb lower than best winning mark). However for the winner I have to return to Princess Ellis - JB.

Selection: Princess Ellis
Danger 1 – Green Park
Danger 2 – How’s She Cuttin’


Ascot 2:20 ladbrokes.com Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) (3yo+)

A big prize on offer here and a competitive handicap to boot. In handicaps of this size I am looking for a consistent performer, which doesn't unfortunately exclude many. The soft ground will also make this a good test of stamina and so the obvious selection would appear to be Magicalmysterytour who won last time out in similar conditions beating Tastahil and staying on. Tastahil is now in receipt of 5lbs, is the more consistent performer and how many times have we seen a horse disappoint on it's second time out after a long break? Of those two Tastahil is my selection.

The second important race is the Marchpole Handicap run also at Ascot a couple of weeks ago and the first four home reoppose on softer ground and undoubtedly a stronger pace. Night Crescendo, winner in the race is easily opposed. No form on the ground and a lucky winner last time out, on slightly worse weight terms with Young Mick who won't encounter the same problems and should beat him comfortably on ground he likes. Drill Sergeant is flattered by his 3rd, he stayed on well but probably won't get the trip. He does like the ground and if he can dictate the pace may have a place chance. Pevensey has been well held by Young Mick so of these 4, Young Mick is the selection.

Allied Powers and Inventor are the last two on the shortlist. Inventor hasn't really had a chance to prove himself on this ground but Allied Powers has acquitted himself constantly and consistently. The only potential negative is the jockey, Spencer needs to keep him handy and commit him early to make this a real test. I think the horse is a bit gutless though, if he gets a march on Young Mick and Tastahil then he has a real chance but Tastahil is taken for the win with Young Mick and Allied Powers the dangers - AR.

Selection: Tastahil
Danger 1: Allied Powers
Danger 2: Young Mick


Bangor-On-Dee 2:25 toteswinger Handicap Chase (Class 3) (4yo+)

The first Chase for the blog falls to me. Top weight is the mount of the champ AP McCoy. Interesting that his retainer, JP McManus runs one in the same race yet AP is given the leg up on the top weight. It says a lot for both horses chances. The Kings Of Angels has wins over shorter and further to his name so this trip is within his compass. Vadelle has been consistent but does not have his ground here. Another in that mould is course winner Rimsky who, although ran 3rd to Comply or Die in the Eider over further, likes ease under foot. Hold The Bid is another consistent sort who should be there or there about. Wins over 1f more and 1f less, goes on the ground, good chance. A couple of others to win at the track are Gidam Gidam and Bill’s Echo. The trip may be too much for the latter but Gidam Gidam has distance victories on his side. Down at the lower end of the weights is the mare Jim Bobs Girl. Another ultra consistent sort in this grade, she has wins over further. A pipe opener over hurdles last month may bring her on and with the jockey taking another 3lbs off her back I think she’s got a nice chance at decent odds - VE.

Selection: Jim Bobs Girl
Danger 1: Hold The Bid
Danger 2: The King Of Angels


Musselburgh 3:15 National Express York Sprint Cup (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) (3yo+)

The consolidation race will hold all the clues for this race. However as we have to do our form reading before the days racing I have to suggest low draws and prominent runners. Those who go with the pace and are low drawn include Fullandby, Ishetoo, Captain Dunne and Stoneacre Lad. The two I want to concentrate on are Ishetoo and Captain Dunne. The latter won very well last time out when beating Green Park, if that horse runs well then Captain Dunne has to be worth following. He has been extremely hit and miss this season, having spread shoes and not started well. He however has undoubted ability and is on a fair mark. He is my selection for the win but if you are trying to get a placed horse it may be wiser to look elsewhere. Ishetoo is more consistent and looks set to run a big race. Cheveton has the widest draw and needs to find improvement whilst Hogmaneigh should be staying on the best at the finish. Sirens Gift seems to flatter to deceive but still is a good bet to finish close to the winner. Fullandby promises a lot but probably will find things happening too quickly and River Falcon will need gaps to open at the right time. I am siding with the big chestnut Captain Dunne - JB.

Selection: Captain Dunne
Danger 1: Ishetoo
Danger 2: Hogmaneigh


Ascot 3:30 Deloitte Autumn Stakes (Group 3) (Class 1) (2yo)

A nice little Group 3 for some promising 2 year olds. The race was won last year by Ibn Khaldun on his way to further triumph in the Racing Post Trophy. Sadly a poor Guinea’s run is all to show from his Classic season but Godolphin have another one this year in the form of Anmar. They are on a hot streak right now, including a 2 year old double at Lingfield on Friday. Anmer won on debut but was beaten over the mile on his only other run which is a slight doubt. Stable and jockey seem bang in form so one to be considered strongly. Another for the short list is the Queen’s horse Four Winds who is the current favourite. A winner over the distance it has to be in with a chance. However he has not been in a race of this class before. Kite Wood too should be in the mix. A winner of a lesser class race but on the same ground and distance as Saturday’s race is from another yard that is in form. Mishrif will be stepping up to a mile for the first time. Beaten by Wingwalker on debut he will have to improve to take this. I like the look of Taameer. Tregoning seems back on track and with just one race under his belt, further improvement will hopefully be seen. His victory was in a class 2 and over the mile so all are positives - VE.

Selection: Taameer
Danger 1: Anmar
Danger 2: Kite Wood


Ascot 4:05 David & Toni Eyles Handicap (Class 2) (3yo+)

Many in with a chance and the likely favourite, Stoute's colt Ascot Lime is certainly a threat but the formlines are mixed with him. Beaten comfortably by a G3 horse last time out but ran creditably, nosed out Conquisto in the race before who has disappointed since. Amanjena has only raced on soft ground on her maiden and was supposed to be turned in for the season so it is a surprise to see her here. Andrew Balding has had a good season and intends to keep her in training next season so he must fancy her chances.

Heaven Knows has beaten the G3 horse that did for Ascot Lime but that was last season and the handicapper hasn't dropped him enough to be competitive. Prince Forever and Ladies Best are also giving plenty of weight away and seem to be stuck to filling out the minor placings. Ramona Chase was obliterated by St Leger winner Conduit early in the season but is going to have to replicate that performance to have a chance here.

I'll take a chance and select Amanjena, although she is not proven on soft she hasn't had a chance and didn't struggle in her maiden and will come on for that. Ascot Lime to round out the top 2 and Ladies Best to run on for third - AR.

Selection: Amanjena
Danger 1: Ascot Lime
Danger 2: Ladies Best

1. Princess Ellis
2. Tastahil
3. Jim Bobs Girl
4. Captain Dunne
5. Taameer
6. Amanjena

October 4th - Fallout

So...

Not the best start but all the races were tricky and the accumulator would have been 3,993,000-1. Even the mighty Pricewise was toppled this week. There were some positives:

Race 1: Vitoria picked as a danger. Came 2nd.
Race 2: Moheeb picked as a danger. Came 5th.
Race 3: Danger finished 4th, 3rd also mentioned as risk.
Race 4: 4 of top 7 picked as potentials. Pity none made the top 3.
Race 5: All 3 selections in top 4. Danger 1 overturned the selection.
Race 6: Outstanding tipping from JB in the hugely competitive handicap. All three dangers came in the first five home, again, pity it wasn't the first two.

Bring on the easier days. Arc day tomorrow and as a special here are our 1-2-3's

JB:
1st Soldier Of Fortune
2nd Youmzain
3rd Zarkava

AR:
1st Duke of Marmalade
2nd Vision D'Etat
3rd Soldier of Fortune

VE:
1st Soldier Of Fortune
2nd Vision D'Etat
3rd Kamsin

Good luck!

4th October

Newmarket 2.10 Tattersalls Timeform Fillies' 800 (Class 2) (2yo)

Well I’ve drawn the short straw and am first up! At least it can only get better! The first race for us is a Class 2 contest with a big pot for the winner. This marks a step up in class for a fair few of the field. The exceptions who have run in higher graded races are Ahla Wasahl and Kissing The Camera. The former was placed in the Cherry Hinton Stakes (G2) over 6f but didn’t seem to get the trip over 7f in the Sweet Solera Stakes (G3). Ahead of her that day was Kissing The Camera who found trouble in running. The form of that race has been boosted not just by Rainbow View (who we all know about) but also Minor Vamp who won the Goff’s Fillies Million last weekend. The ground shouldn’t be an issue to Kissing The Camera with a victory on Good to Firm earlier in the season. No ground issues either for My Superstar (who is the forecasted favourite at time of writing). The Stoute/Moore combination has a very good chance having scored over the distance on this ground. Others of interest are Oasis Sunset, who ran 4th in a race won by Arazan earlier this season, and Vitoria. Oasis Sunset may want further than the 7f here but connections must think she has a chance to send her over from Ireland to take back some prize money. Vitoria, having won over the distance and on the ground too, should be in the mix. Due to this I’d take Vitoria to edge out Oasis Sunset as a danger - VE.

Selection: Kissing The Camera
Danger 1: My Superstar
Danger 2: Vitoria

Redcar 2.25 Boddingtons Redcar Straight-Mile Championship Final (Handicap) (Class 2) (3yo+)

It’s the first of the two big field handicaps in this week’s Scoop 6, this one is the straight mile class 2 handicap at Redcar. It is the draw that plays a massive influence in this race, those drawn low are at a massive disadvantage. Ezdeyaad is the likely market leader, coming into this race in fine form he is likely to be well supported in the market. He is off a higher mark than when just tipped off last time out and is overlooked. Those drawn high include Efidium, Crocodile Bay and King Fingal and cases can be made for all three, the course, distance and ground should hold no concerns for all three. However the selection is going to be the old timer Middlemarch who relishes these conditions, having won over the course and distance last time out. The main dangers look to be Moheeb and Exit Smiling, the former has got some good runs in the formbook and is likely to show more progression whilst Exit Smiling is a horse with course, distance and ground form - JB.

Selection: Middlemarch
Danger 1: Moheeb
Danger 2: Exit Smiling

Newmarket 2.45 Tattersalls Timeform Million (Class 2) (2yo)

Don't get me started on the prize money available for this Class 2 race! However that has attracted some quality horses none more so than the likely favourite Sri Putra. This unbeaten colt has a G3 victory under his belt already in the race that Raven's Pass (Champion Miler Elect?) won last year, he has held a few of these (notably Prince Seigfried and Cry of Freedom) in the past. Liberation is the main threat, smashing the majority of the field last time out by 10L. Spencer's mount, Nasri is certain to enjoy the step up in trip and on times deserves his place here but in my opinion will find a couple too good. Richard Hannon saddles Sohcahtoa who has found the mile a bit too far and drops back in trip here, a good indication will be the performance of Snoqualmie Girl on Friday but against less exposed rivals I think will struggle. Weald Park is the final piece of this huge jigsaw and should have won last time out in a weak G2, Richard Hughes should have learnt his lesson from this and is proven on the likely firmer ground which is more than can be said for many of these - AR.

Selection: Weald Park
Danger 1: Sri Putra
Danger 2: Liberation

Redcar 3.00 totescoop6 Two-Year-Old Trophy (Listed Race) (Class 1) (2yo)

Only a fifth of the prize money available at the less glamorous Redcar 2yo showpiece but another hugely competitive race. Total Gallery is the highest rated here but has yet to win over this distance and if you don't get the trip then you are going to be found wanting in a big field, Zuzu is bidding for the hat-trick but makes a big step up in class (albeit deservedly so) she has shown signs of greeness under pressure and when tiring if she battles on should do well. Brae Hill (the Sporting Life selection) needs to improve to win but won his far side battle last time out in tough conditions. I'm not sure that is going to be enough though. Caranbola should again be out of her league here but she gets a big weight tow and coul be in the mix for the lower place. Viva Ronaldo was held by Brae Hill in the testing 6 1/2f race last time out at Doncaster and again gives her 6lbs but the sounder surface will suit and the gap will not be as wide this time around. I've toyed with the idea of selecting Khor Dubai, Godolphin have had a small renaissance with their sprinters as the season draws on but I simply don't think the horse is good enough. The selection is Frognal who beat Damien in the St Leger Yearling Stakes. The latter has gone on to beat Khor Dubai, Brae Hill and Viva Ronaldo. Tom Queally has not ridden him before but I rate him highly and the sound surface is a big plus - AR.

Selection: Frognal
Danger 1: Brae Hill
Danger 2: Viva Ronaldo

Newmarket 3.15 Kingdom of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes (Group 1) (Fillies & Mares) (Class 1) (3yo+)

Group 1 action and some top quality mares and fillies taking part. The market leader is Darjina who has been unfortunate not get her head in front this season. It’s actually over a year since she was in the winners enclosure although she has taken on the colts over that time and been very unlucky. Fast ground should suit and the mile is pefect. The main challenger will be Halfway To Heaven. This seasons Irish 1000 Guinea’s and Nassau Stakes heroine will be looking to put her 3rd place finish to Lush Lashes last time out behind her. She will be getting a weight allowance from the older mares in the race and on ground she loves she will reverse the form with Nahoodh who split Lush Lashes and Halfway To Heaven in the Matron Stakes. The going will put pay to Listen and Nahoodh’s chances. Cheveley Park run 2 with Heaven Sent and Spacious. Group 1’s are probably a step too far for Heaven Sent. Spacious is one I like. She found only Natagora too good in the Guinea’s over course and distance on ground the same as is predicted for the race. Didn’t beat much on her return from a break last time out but will hopefully have come on for the run. It should be a fascinating race and there won’t be much in it at the finish - VE.

Selection: Darjina
Danger 1: Halfway To Heaven
Danger 2: Spacious

Newmarket 3.50 totesport.com Cambridgeshire (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2) (3yo+)

The biggest handicap of the day is the last race in the Scoop6 and it contains some very nicely handicapped horses. Premio Loco, Yaddree, Siberian Tiger, Indian Days and Zero Tolerance are all due to go further up the handicap after this race. Premio Loco is the horse who is due to go up the most, with a 6lbs rise in the offing, which makes him an excellent proposition in this race. However his worst form has come on this track and his recent performances have been on the all weather, and for this reason he should be taken on. Yaddree is 5lbs ahead of the handicap and has course and distance form, and for this reason is put forward as the selection. Siberian Tiger is a distance and ground winner whilst Indian Days is untested over the trip but will relish the ground conditions. Zero Tolerance has course form but is 0 from 3 over the trip. The main dangers to the selection could come from Swop of Luca Cumani who looks like an improving sort whilst my antepost selection Little White Lie looks set to run a big race - JB.

Selection – Yaddree
Danger 1 – Swop
Danger 2 – Little White Lie

1. Kissing The Camera
2. Middlemarch
3. Weald Park
4. Frognal
5. Darjina
6. Yaddree