Scoop 6

February 7th

2009-02-07T12:29:00.005Z

Rubbish week this week so JB and VE are taking a break and I'm only doing one line.

Race 1: Kempton 2.15

Selection: Ring Bo Ree

Race 2: Lingfield 2.25

Selection: Fantasy Ride

Race 3: Lingfield 3.00

Selection: Limelight

Race 4: Lingfield 3.35

Selection: Ace of Hearts

Race 5: Wolverhampton 3.55

Selection: Harry Up

Race 6: Kempton 4.00

Selection: Pass Me A Dime

31st January - Review

2009-01-31T18:43:00.002Z

Race 1: Danger 2 came 2nd.
Race 2: The selection was a non runner.
Race 3: Danger 1 won and Danger 2 came second.
Race 4: The selection came fourth but the winner was a 16/1 shot
Race 5: Danger 1 won.
Race 6: The selection won at 4/1

31st January

2009-01-30T14:35:00.004Z

Wetherby 2:20 TOTESCOOP6 RECORD ROLLOVER HANDICAP CHASE (CLASS 2) (5yo+,0-150) 2m4f110y

We kick off this week with a 9 runner handicap chase in what could be testing conditions. There are 8 of the 9 who have won over this trip and of those, 5 have victories around Wetherby to their name. Top weight is The Whisperer who is making his first run of the year. His 2 wins have come on Good ground and over longer than this trip. Ellerslie George has won his last 2 starts at Wetherby. Sandwiched in between was a run in the Becher Chase where the trip appeared too far. Back again to 20f, he goes on any ground and would be a big chance. The slight dip in the form of Howard Johnson’s string would be my only concern. First Look raced last week and was pulled up. This is his first run at the track having been campaigned mainly at Ayr. His run two starts ago when finishing 11 lengths 6th to Akilak looks decent form given that ones recent Cheltenham performance. The worry remains the PU last time. One place in front of First Look in the Akilak race was Edmo Yewkay. He receives more weight from First Look than that day and loves the ground heavy. Conditions could be in his favour here. Saunders Road won at Cheltenham 2 starts ago under big weight. Last time out in this company he was 4th, but well beaten over a similar trip at Ascot. His jockey takes of a useful 7lbs which will help his cause. Corlande is a decent performer in lesser class. Has been found wanting each time he’s stepped up to this class and the same will happen again. Daldini has ran 4th in this class over shorter distances. There are others with more appeal who have already been mentioned. – VE

Selection: Ellerslie George
Danger 1: Saunders Road
Danger 2: Edmo Yewkay

Doncaster 2:30 WILLIAMHILL.COM - LIVE CASINO GAMES HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 2) (4yo+)

King Jack may go off as favourite but I don't know why, he is not as good as others lining up here and now I've said that he'll probably win. Of course he is receiving weight but I don't think he's good enough. Lothian Falcon is getting on a bit now but is the classiest horse in the field. Always runs well in his first race of the seaon and 7/1 is great odds. Gods Token is another of advancing years but has shown good form in the past over hurdles and the stable is in form. Charlie Crab is a threat provided he gets round but the distance is still a question mark as could be a bit too much of a risk. Mirage Dore and Tartan Snow have previous form together but the latters form has really tailed off whereas the former has improved. Mirage Dore has been off the track for a while but is the model of consistency. Really tricky one, I'll side with Mirage Dore with Lothian Falcon a real danger but the final danger is Charlie Crab. - AR

Selection: Mirage Dore
Danger 1: Lothian Falcon
Danger 2: Charlie Crab

Doncaster 3:00 WILLIAMHILL.COM HANDICAP CHASE (CLASS 2) (5yo+)

Nicholls sends 3 out here Andreas and Medicinal are e/w chances that need others to fail in order to succeed. I'msingingtheblues is highly regarded by his trainer but it looks like he doesnt go best with ease in the ground. I have similar concerns about I'm So Lucky whos only wins on easy ground have been in awful contests. Doctor David will be fine on any ground but takes a step up in class to compete here and finds himself high in the weights. Might be a step too far here. My final contender is Kilmackilloge, who comes from outside the handicap which will help if conditions deteriorate but this is a strong renewal and surely one will be found too good. - AR

Selection: I'm So Lucky
Danger 1: I'msingingtheblues
Danger 2: Doctor David

Sandown 3:10 4 MILLION TOTESCOOP6 HEROES HANDICAP HURDLE GRADE 3 (CLASS 1) (4yo+) 2m6f

Amazingly I get to look at a grade race in the Scoop6, and this looks pretty competitive on paper. It is a handicap which makes it difficult but there are a few in here that look on good marks. The one who looks on a very nice mark is Ballydub who was going just about as well as anything else when falling 2 out in a race won by Big Bucks, and he franked the form last weekend. I however will be taking him on here with Otto Des Pictons who is open to plenty of improvement and is coming into this off a decent weight, he has form on soft ground and he looks set to run a big race. The dangers should be Cruchain and Group Captain but both look a shade too high in the handicap. - JB

Selection – Otto Des Pictons
Danger 1 – Cruchain
Danger 2 – Group Captain

Doncaster 3:30 WILLIAMHILL.COM - PLAY BINGO HANDICAP CHASE (CLASS 2) (5yo+,0-140) 4m

A proper 4 mile slog around Doncaster, which will suit horses who can gallop and jump from fence to fence. Gidam Gidam is a course winner, and has to be feared in this, he is stepping up in trip but he looks suited by it, as he was staying nicely over 3m4 last time. Hello Bud and Naunton Brook both have winning form over the trip, and staying is really important, and neither can be ruled out of this. However I am concentrating on those who look open to plenty of improvement and Jass looks a certain horse to relish this trip. He is relatively lightly raced and he has good recent form. However the one I am siding with is Malko De Beaumont who is still really attractively weighted and should relish this trip. - JB

Selection – Malko De Beaumont
Danger 1 – Jass
Danger 2 – Gidam Gidam

Sandown 3:45 TOTESPORT.COM MASTERS HANDICAP CHASE (CLASS 2) (5yo+) 3m110y

The final leg of the Scoop 6 this week is this intriguing 3m handicap chase featuring some well known faces. Top weight is Gungadu. He hasn’t shown anywhere near the form of early 2008 when he won back to back handicap races over 3 miles. Harry Skelton takes the ride with his 5 lbs claim helping ease the burden. He disappointed last time at Ascot when only 8th. Way ahead of Gungadu that day was Monkerhostin. The game old boy received 5 lbs from Gungadu that day, but only 1 lbs here. Skelton’s claim effectively puts Monkerhostin top weight by 4 lbs. Very rarely does he turn in a bad race and I would expect him to be there in the mix at the finish. Another who was ahead of Gungadu that day was Eric’s Charm. The mount of A.P McCoy, he ran last week in the Thystes Chase in Ireland where the conditions were awful. A hard race there may have left it’s mark on this one. New Little Bric is the 2nd Nicholls runner. He’s partnered by Ruby Walsh. He has only tried this sort of trip once before and that resulted in him being pulled up. Something Wells is another stepping into the unknown regarding the distance. Will he get the extra half mile? There others that will in preference to him. The novice, Sound Accord has been 3 miles over hurdles but as yet, not over fences. It’s a big ask to throw him in at this level after just 3 runs over the larger obstacles, where he has won just once. The one I like is Can’t Buy Time. He has been a selection on here before when just being out done by Malko De Beaumont in the Tommy Whittle Chase. It was a great effort that day in similar conditions. He is bottom weight for this race and it’s interesting that McIernon takes the ride when McCoy was available. The 7 lbs claim must be the main influence behind the thinking. – VE

Selection: Can’t Buy Time
Danger 1: Monkerhostin
Danger 2: Something Wells

Ellerslie George
Mirage Dore
I'm So Lucky
Otto Des Pictons
Malko De Beaumont
Can’t Buy Time

24th January

2009-01-23T16:15:00.007Z

Doncaster - 1:40 - 100 Welcome Bonus At skyvegas.com Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (4yo+,0-135) 2m3f110y

With two withdrawals this morning we are left with a field of 15, and its a very competitive handicap hurdle to start the Scoop6. The horse now carrying top weight is Character Building who still looks to be on a fair hurdles mark and he is massively respected. Charmaine Wood runs in a handicap for the first time and at short odds she is not one to put maximum faith in, especially has her two hurdles wins have been around the undulating course of Towcester. She may not like this galloping course. Hernando Royal is the selection here, he has been running very big races in defeat and already has showed his aptitude to galloping courses, he is good on this soft ground and he is still open to plenty of improvement. The main dangers could come in the shape of Kack Handed and Character Building. JB

Selection: Hernando Royal
Danger 1: Kack Handed
Danger 2: Character Building

Cheltenham - 2:05 - betchronicle.com Trophy Chase (Handicap) Grade 3 (Class 1) (5yo+) 2m5f

There are plenty in with decent chances in this 2m5f Chase at Cheltenham. Top weight is the old boy Mister McGoldrick. Wetherby is his favourite place but Cheltenham isn’t far behind. A course and distance winner at the Festival last year, he’s been placed in a Champion Chase. His best years may be behind him, but he’s sure to give backers a decent run for their money. He’s not one for me though. Stan won last time out over course and distance. He was pulled up in the Paddy Power but before and after has wins at Cheltenham. The weight to carry will be the main concern, though he is capable. Pablo Du Charmil is next in the weights, but surely needs shorter. Reveillez has been off the track for the best part of 2 years. He would need to produce something sensational to take this. This trip these days seems a bit on the short side for Turko. Ran in the National last year, when never tried beyond this distance. Should give a good bold run, but others are preferred. Battlecry is a possible. A consistent sort who has won over the trip. The ground is the main concern as all bar one of his wins have been on Good or firmer. Placed on his last 2 runs over C&D. Has place claims again. Private Be steps up in trip notably and was beaten here by Stan last time. Can’t see him threatening here. Moom Over Miami is another trying further, but there’s nothing in his form to indicate he will get it. Akilak won last time when put forward by jbgb007uk. Conditions will suit him no end. The trip is a different story. Never been beyond 21f, the extra half mile may tell. – VE

Selection: Stan
Danger 1: Battlecry
Danger 2: Turko

Doncaster - 2:15 - skypoker.com Handicap Chase (Class 2) (5yo+,0-140) 2m3f

This is a fairly open race but the two that stand out for me are Nacarat who carries more weight than most but is still well handicapped and Corlande at the other end of the weights but at longer odds I fancy Edmo Yewkay who loves this ground, and has won here before over the same distance, real chance. Beggars Cup and Our Jasper have chances but there are some small niggles with them that put me off. Corlande is taken to win with Nacarat set to push him all the way, Edmo Yewkay is the outsider set to mix things up a little. -anu

Selection: Corlande
Danger 1: Nacarat
Danger 2: Edmo Yewkay

Cheltenham - 2:35 - Letheby & Christopher Chase (Registered As The Cotswold Chase) Grade 2 (Class 1) (5yo+) 3m1f110y

The big race of the day and a few prospects will reappear at the festival. Tidal Bay is a powerhouse up the Cheltenham hill but this trip is still a question mark. Nozic is preferred over Star De Mohaison as Ruby has picked the former, apparently because the ground is not in the latters favour. Snoopy Loopy and Ollie Magern are brave old warriors but they are carrying the biggest weights and will probably struggle. Joe Lively loves Cheltenham but isnt well in weights wise, however as a CD winner could be danger. Halcon Genelardais will go off favourite but the trip is too short, the question is, does he have the class to overcome that? I say yes. -anu

Selection: Halcon Genelardais
Danger 1: Tidal Bay
Danger 2: Nozic

Doncaster - 2:50 - Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle (Registered As The River Don) Grade 2 (Class 1) (4yo+) 3m110y

This Novice Hurdle throws up a few possible picks. Forecast favourite is On Raglan Road. Ridden by the champ, he’s never been out of the first two. Saying that he’s never been over 2m4f before so the step up in trip is an uncertainty. Junior is next in the betting. He’s been beaten by On Raglan Road and is another for who the trip is an unknown. Gullible Gordon has a victory over this distance and in these conditions, which are all a big plus. It’s a big step up in class but he could figure. Cape Tribulation handles the ground, but the trip and class are something else. May be out of his depth. Star Lord would have better claims if the ground was firmer. Diablo doesn’t appear to handle the ground so is one to avoid here. Midnight Sail is one who could surprise. His last outing was when beating Fistral Beach, where he ran on strongly, suggesting the step up in trip may suit. - VE

Selection: Midnight Sail
Danger 1: On Raglan Road
Danger 2: Gullible Gordon

Doncaster - 3:25 - Sky Bet Chase Handicap (Listed Race) (Class 1) (5yo+) 3m

A massive field here is due to go to post but we already have 6 withdrawals, which has made the job slightly easier. Many will be following Big Fella Thanks who has the talent but he does not jump very well, and he looks to need a good deal further than 3 miles, he will be suited by the nature of the course but I think he is very vulnerable here. The selection is Montgermont who I had down to run a big race last Saturday before removing his jockey at the first. He is really nicely handicapped but he is not the most fluent so is not one for the faint hearted. A safer bet could be Alexanderthegreat who has been running really well this season and Venetia Williams knows how to plunder a good size pot with her handicappers. I think this race revolves around jumping, and I hope we see much better from both Big Fella Thanks and Montgermont, with the latter as the selection.JB

Selection: Montgermont
Danger 1: Alexanderthegreat
Danger 2: Big Fella Thanks

Hernando Royal
Stan
Corlande
Halcon Generlardais
Midnight Sail
Montgermont

January 17th - Fallout

2009-01-19T18:46:00.002Z

From a personal point of view I managed to get my first selection to actually win a race after lots of near misses and some not so near misses. On the whole it was a very encouraging week, with us hitting places in all but one race with at least one of our 3 picks.

Race 1: The Selection won.
Race 2: The Selection was placed in 3rd.
Race 3: The Selection was placed in 2nd.
Race 4: All 3 picks failed to finish.
Race 5: Danger 2 was placed 2nd with the Selection was placed in 4th.
Race 6: Danger 2 won.

January 17th

2009-01-16T20:54:00.011Z

1:55 Peter Marsh Chase (Limited Handicap) Grade 2 (Cl1) - VE

A strong looking renewal of the Peter March Chase kicks off this weeks Scoop 6. The field is full of decent sorts and looks like a number have chances. Top weight is Cloudy Lane who went off joint favourite for last years Grand National. He has had a couple of runs this term, the best of which was in the Rowland Meyrick at Wetherby when coming 3rd to Nozic, again under top weight. Ground conditions being on the soft side won’t hinder too much and is a previous course and distance winner (4 wins at Haydock) and he could get back to winning ways in this grade. Miko De Beauchene won last years Welsh National and was unlucky when unseating in this time. A winner at Haydock in the past, the track or ground hold no worries. My concern is he needs further than 3 miles these days. Still not without a chance in testing conditions. Dear Villez is the forecast favourite and Tony McCoy takes the ride for Paul Nicholls. He won over this trip in Ireland in soft going and put up a creditable performance in the Hennessy. He had a couple of jumping errors last season in his Novice year that saw him unseating twice. That is the main question mark, has he put the errors behind him? His 2 runs this term suggest yes. I’m unsure. Opera Mundi is the second Nicholl’s runner. Sam Thomas is on board. Seems to have lost his way since winning around Haydock in November 2007. Pulled up in the Sky Bet Chase and Scottish National, his last run was at Cheltenham in November when trailing home 6th having gone off favourite. There will be others ahead of him here too. Montgermont returned in November after 2 years off the track. Has won over this trip in his Novice days and seemed to want further than the 20f on his 2 come back runs. He could be one staying on at the end. Kandjar D’Allier was in the winners enclosure here in November although in a lower grade. He would need to improve to take this. The same goes for Glasker Mill. No wins in a year and pulled last time in the Welsh National. He’s of little appeal here. The old timers Fundamentalist and D’Argent will give each way backers a run for their money. – VE

Selection: Cloudy Lane
Danger 1: Dear Villez
Danger 2: Montgermont

2:05 Connaught Partnerships Handicap Hurdle (Cl3) - AR

Pretty awful race and any of them could win. On form the consistent Tender Falcon has plenty going for him and Show Winner is another in with a good shout but will have to overcome a disastrous Boxing Day performance. I'd put that down as Christmas Blues and there were a lot of unusual performances over that period. The third horse to make the shortlist is Maraafeq, the stable is in form and their seems to be some money behind it, with a claimer on board he could have a shout. Consistency is the best bet so Tender Falcon is the selection, the other two to follow him home.

Selection: Tender Falcon
Danger 1: Show Winner
Danger 2: Maraafeq

2:40 Connaught Compliance Handicap Chase (Cl3) - AR

Another tricky race and I'm going to sound like I'm part of the Williams/Biddick fan club but the stable is in form and this one has a better chance than Maraafeq. My only concern is the claimer on the chasing novice, if there are no mistakes then Pipo De Re is in with a great shot. Gentleman Jimmy will probably need the run, Triggernometry is from my local stable and the word from the Bird is that he is in good form and at healthy odds worth respect. Tarotino may struggle with top weight so my final selection is Kew Jumper, consistently average and should make the places but will rely on others failing to win.

Selection: Triggernometry
Danger 1: Pipo De Re
Danger 2: Kew Jumper

3:10 Connaught Environmental Handicap Hurdle (Cl3) - JB

A 21 runner handicap hurdle over the 2 miles and 6 furlong trip around Wincanton is the next race in the Scoop 6. To say this race is competitive is an understatement, but I am concentrating on those who have winning handicap form. Victorias Groom is top weight here but has been running very well this season, however I do not think the horse can win off this higher mark. At the top of the weights with him is At The Money, and this horse is very interesting for me, as he is only 4lbs higher than his best winning mark and has been running creditably in better races since, including off marks in the 120s. Dangers are likely to come from all around but the two I nominate are Billie Magern and Fantastic Arts, who both look to be on decent marks and can thrive in this big field.

Selection: At The Money
Danger 1: Billie Magern
Danger 2: Fantastic Arts

3:25 1942 Was A Vintage Year Handicap Chase (Cl2) - JB

A mere 18 runners go to post for this handicap chase over 2 miles and 5 furlongs, with Boomshakalaka and Saunders Road likely to head the market. I side with Saunders Road here, who gets into the handicap as bottom weight and is open to a good deal of improvement. Oracle Des Mottes is likely to be well supported and the Nicholls horse looks set to run another big race, however the handicapper looks to be catching up with him. Alright Now M’Lad is a danger with the yard in great form, and Something Wells is lightly enough raced over fences to be open to more improvement. Boomshakalaka is a Henderson horse, so must be feared whilst Howard Johnson has El Vaquero and Bafana Boy, near the bottom of the handicap. However I am taking Mr Flint to make the most of his 7lb claim on Saunders Road and they will take a good deal of beating. One thing to watch out for is overweight though (He has got as low as 9-7 in the last 12 months) but I think he and Mr Hobbs will ensure everything is right for today.

Selection: Saunders Road
Danger 1: Alright Now M'Lad
Danger 2: Something Wells

3:45 Connaught Cup Handicap Chase (Cl3) - VE

The last leg this week is this 10 runner Handicap Chase. Top weight is the Carl Llewellyn trained Hennessy. Made an encouraging return to Chasing earlier this month at Folkestone when winning over 25f. Stolen Moments is another who won last time out. That was over 3 miles on soft ground at Exeter before Christmas. Since going Chasing he has only been out of the front 3 once and that was when taking a fall at Sandown. He does make mistakes in his races so maybe one to avoid. Tora Bora hasn’t tasted success over jumps since 2006 and it’s a big ask to do it on his first jumps start since Feb. Rodrigo Gonzales has yet to win over the jumps. He doesn’t look like he will see out the trip. Double Dizzy has decent efforts around this trip in these conditions. Could be one for the E/W backers. Nicto De Beauchene won last time out over C&D on this ground. Makes mistakes and has been on the deck twice out of 5 runs over jumps. Caution if backing him. Zacharova, if retaining the form of his last run, has a great chance off a low weight. Put 2 poor runs behind him with his win last time. If he last home in these conditions then it could be his. – VE

Selection: Zacharova
Danger 1: Hennessy
Danger 2: Double Dizzy

Cloudy Lane
Tender Falcon
Triggernometry
At The Money
Saunders Road
Zacharova

January 10th Fallout

2009-01-16T20:47:00.002Z

Race 1: 22/1 winner got us off to a bad start
Race 2: Danger 1 came second
Race 3: Danger 2 won
Race 4: Selection won at 5/1
Race 5: 12/1 shot won, selections nowhere
Race 6: Low class race, the selections were nowhere

January 10th

2009-01-09T17:57:00.008Z

Happy New Year!

2:30 BLUE SQUARE SP GUARANTEE HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 2) (4yo+)

Tony McCoy sits out like a sore thumb here and on Money Order we have a worthy favourite. Sure we havent seen him for over a year and his victories have been narrow to say the least the competition is weak here and if it was just a run McCoy would not take the bait. Endless Power is an obvious threat but the form from his last victory. Diamond Frontier is the most likely to either chase home McCoy or touch him out and the other danger is Tartan Snow but not threatening enough to question the favourite.

Selection: Money Order
Danger 1: Diamond Frontier
Danger 2: Tartan Snow

3:00 BLUE SQUARE HANDICAP CHASE (CLASS 2) (5yo+,0-145)

The last time we covered the Scoop 6 for the blog it was the Tommy Whittle at Haydock and the winner of that race reappears here. Malko De Beaumont was selected as Danger 2 that day but ran out a nice winner in the end. That was over a furlong shorter than this trip but the way he finished the race at Haydock gives me no concerns that he won’t get 25f here. The ground is likely to be soft as at Haydock, which he thrives on. The only slight negative is the increase in weight this time, although doesn’t carry top weight. That privilege goes to Gypsy George. His last run was in the Welsh National over Christmas which was a step into the unknown distance wise. He was pulled up that day but reverts back here to 25f where he has course and distance form. He’s another who won’t be put off by the soft conditions, he should be there at the death. Frankie Figg represents the Howard Johnson yard. He has won over the trip and on soft ground, but a couple of penultimate fence falls in the past makes me question his stamina towards the end of his races. See You There will be hoping to put in a better effort than when last seen pulling up in the London National. Prior to that run he had two victories including taking the scalp of Idle Talk. Has won over 25f on heavy in the past so no problems with the state of the ground for him either. Could figure in the places. Jass hasn’t seen the winners enclosure for well over a year and would need a substantial improvement to take this. His 2 best runs over fences have been over this distance on heavy ground but in lower classes of race. Chopneyev appears out of his depth here and First Look, was beaten by Malko De Beaumont in November over 21f, has only tried 3m once before when well beaten. - VE

Selection: Malko De Beaumont

Danger 1: Gypsy George
Danger 2: See You There

3:15 LIVE CASINO GAMES @ WILLIAMHILL.COM HANDICAP (CLASS 4) (4yo+,0-85)

A race of interesting tactics, as only 2 of the runners are likely to want to race prominently from the off and I think they could well have it pretty easy in front. The two are Monkey Glas and Pegasus Again, and if Southandwest does not run (won previous day) they may be able to stretch out of reach from the hold up horses. Monkey Glas has the blinkers on for the first time, which may help him focus and go through with his efforts, he seems to be a thinker, and this is a perfect opportunity for him to make every yard of the running. He will need to shrug Pegasus Again off from the stalls, and get to the rail, but if he does that then he has to be in with a great chance. Pegasus Again has the best draw, and if he gets out with Monkey Glas, he should get the rail sit and take the best route around the course. Of those coming from off the pace I think Southandwest would have a great chance, after winning with something in hand last time out. He may find this race coming too soon and therefore possibly Resplendent Nova could finish best of those held up.

Selection: Monkey Glas
Danger 1: Pegasus Again
Danger 2: Resplendent Nova

3:30 BLUE SQUARE MOBILE HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 3) (4yo+,0-125)

Again the favourite, Princess Flame, has to be up there based on her victory last time out and its McCoy on board again and I fancy a small risk on Los Nadis with Flinty taking 7lbs of his back but I think he'll need a bit more than that to win. Instead it is Prosecco, weighted lightest in no doubt a certain bog who shall be my selection, consistency is something I like at Ayr as well as a victory over the course so that is the selection.

Selection: Prosecco
Danger 1: Princess Flame
Danger 2: Los Nadis

3:45 WILLIAM HILL TELEBETTING SALE - 0800 44 40 40 HANDICAP (CLASS 6) (4yo+,0-54)

A competitive handicap over 7 furlongs, which high drawn horses will be at a good advantage, and as such it is hard to look beyond those drawn 9 to 14. The best drawn is a possible improver in First In Show who does not have much to find on his recent handicap efforts, he now has the blinkers on which could provide much improvement. He has to beat a couple of useful sorts here though and I am siding with Lady Aspen, who ran a great race at this course last time out. She was up against a much better field than this and to get as close as she did is a massive credit. She races reasonably close to the pace, and as such may get a decent passage through the race. Straight Face could be the one to take them along early, and from this good draw, with a low weight and course form he is feared.
This is a tough handicap of little quality, which I am putting Lady Aspen forward as the most likely winner.

Selection: Lady Aspen
Danger 1: First In Show
Danger 2: Straight Face

4:00 AYR NOVICES' HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 4) (4yo+,0-100)

A tricky 11 runner Novice Hurdle to end with this week. None of these have so far managed a win over hurdles. Zaffarella was the forecast favourite at time of writing. She was a well beaten 4th on her first outing this season when stepped back to 2 miles after several attempts over longer distances. Royal Flynn has some victories to his name on the flat in handicaps but has never really transformed that when going over hurdles. Za Beau has won over fences but never over the smaller objects. Her most promising hurdles effort came in July when 2nd at Perth. The ground would appear a major worry. American World carries top weight. Conditions under foot may suit him more than most, although the form figures are pretty uninspiring. The same can be said of Lady Chatelaine. 4th over course and distance on heavy ground in December, she could figure here. Stepchange’s last effort was by far his best although it came over half a mile more than this race. He may be tapped for toe come the finish. - VE

Selection: Lady Chatelaine
Danger 1: Royal Flynn
Danger 2: American World

Money Order
Malko De Beaumont
Monkey Glas
Prosecco
Lady Aspen
Lady Chatelaine

December 20th - Fallout

2009-01-08T12:50:00.002Z

This is how we did on our last outing over the Scoop 6. Hopefully we shall return on Saturday 10/1/09, weather permitting.

Race 1: Danger 1 won, the Selection was 2nd and Danger 2 was 3rd.
Race 2: Danger 1 was a non-runner, so it went on the fave. All 3 picks out of the frame.
Race 3: Danger 1 was the best in 5th.
Race 4: Danger 2 was the best in 4th.
Race 5: Danger 2 won with the Selection in 3rd.
Race 6: The Selection won. Danger 1 was 4th.

20th December

2008-12-19T14:40:00.003Z

Ascot 2:10 BGC Long Walk Hurdle (Grade 1) (4 y o+) 3m 1f

An ultra competitive renewal of The Long Walk Hurdle kicks off this weeks Scoop6 quest. There could be quite a few punters out after this first leg as there are plenty in with a chance. Nicky Henderson’s pair of runners head the market with the impressive recent Cheltenham winner Punchestowns the slight forecast favourite at time of writing. He carried top weight that day but here is on level weights although the trip is half a mile further. It is a step into the unknown whether he will get it as he’s never raced beyond 2m 5f before. If he lasts home in the softish conditions he has a chance. The other Henderson horse is Duc De Regniere. He won last time in The Long Distance Hurdle when facing 4 others who re-oppose here. That was over 3 miles and the extra furlong should be achievable. Going chasing didn’t suit him but back over hurdles he seems a different beast. No ground concerns for him either and he should go close with AP McCoy in the saddle. Behind Duc De Regniere at Newbury were Mobaasher, Pettifour, Blazing Bailey and Hills Of Aran. Mobaasher and Pettifour have been having some ding dong battles. Pettifour got his head in front in terrific finish at Wetherby in early November then Mobaasher, receiving 4lbs was 1 ½ lengths in front of Pettifour in The Long Distance Hurdle. They will be hard to split again. 4th in that Long Distance Hurdle was Blazing Bailey. He has shown some great things in the past when beating Inglis Drever but has also put in some below par efforts. It depends which Blazing Bailey turns up. If back to his best he could trouble the places. Last years winner Lough Derg is back again. I backed him last year and his make all win was one of my favourite races of last season. I can’t see him having the same run of the race and last season’s attempt at the Order Of Merit may have had a detrimental effect on his future performances. Others of interest are Elusive Dream who Ruby Walsh has jumped off to ride Mobaasher, and recent Aintree winner Serabad. Both have stamina questions to be answered. – VE

Selection: Duc De Regniere
Danger 1: Punchestowns
Danger 2: Mobaasher

2.35 Haydock - JOSEPH HELER CHEESE HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 2) 2m4f

A typical handicap hurdle is in store for the Scoop6, which means that the race is going to be very competitive. Tazbar is the best horse in the race but coming here on seasonal reappearance and having to shoulder the burden of top weight will make this very tough for him. His run on the flat did not go to plan and it showed that he is not a straightforward individual. Award Winner is on good form, having won on both starts this season; I however think he has to be taken on here on his handicap debut. The one I am siding with is Procas De Thaix who comes from the Nicky Henderson yard, he is another on handicap debut but he has been off the track for 269 days and should have improved for having a summer of development. He ran in some classy races as a novice hurdler and as a bumper horse and he has always shown enough to suggest that he can be competitive off a mark of 137. The dangers are likely to be Hibiki and Middleton Dene, as both are fit and have had a recent effort, both have good handicap form and both look fairly treated.

Selection – Procas De Thaix
Danger 1 – Hibiki
Danger 2 – Middleton Dene

2.45 Ascot – THE LADBROKE (A HANDICAP HURDLE) (LISTED RACE) (CLASS 1) 2miles

The Ladbroke looks an absolute minefield but three horses in the race stand out for me and they are Noble Alan, Group Captain and Squadron. All three are at big prices in the market but all three have massive potential and are all likely to improve for more racing. Squadron has been busy this year including running Crack Away Jack close at Chepstow. He then went on and won at Ascot before running creditably behind Numide and Aigle D’or in the Greatwood Hurdle. He likes a test and he is always willing to pull more out for his jockey. Group Captain is another interesting handicapper who was unlucky last time out when 3rd in a big field handicap. That day if he had jumped the last fluently then he could well have turned his 2 length defeat into victory. He should come on for that run and as such has to be worth a look in the market. Noble Alan is a horse I hold in high regard and he is lightly raced and progressive, and as such looks the type to take a big field handicap at some point.

Selection – Squadron
Danger 1 – Group Captain
Danger 2 – Noble Alan

Newcastle 2:55 WBX.com Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (3 y o+) 2m

A tricky little handicap hurdle to work out here. Joint top weights are Zen Candy and Riquez Dancer. Zen Candy won his last race at long odds on over this trip in soft ground so conditions under foot won’t hamper his chances. His jockey claims a useful 5lbs to ease the burden. Riquez Dancer ran last week at Doncaster when finishing 3rd in testing conditions. If this race hasn’t come around too quick then he has every chance. His jockey claims 3lbs. He is a course and distance winner. Tartan Snow has been campaigned over further distances than this, with limited success. Made a promising effort last time over 2m 2f and could go close. Pagan Starprincess is one who could figure also. Dropped back in trip to 2 miles, she has performed in the conditions in the past. Nelson Du Ronceray has been off the track a while. The David Johnson owned gelding won his last start over this distance. He has a fairly decent weight to carry, helper by Ryan Mania’s 5lbs claim. If fully fit then he has a real chance. Realism has place claims if reproducing his course and distance win from February. – VE

Selection: Nelson Du Ronceray
Danger 1: Zen Candy
Danger 2: Riquez Dancer

Haydock 3:10 Sodexo Presteige Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase (Class 2) (4 yo+) 3m

An interesting looking Tommy Whittle chase where Jonjo O’Neill saddles Can’t Buy Time who is looking for his 4th win in a row. He is a horse I’ve followed this season and has put in some decent performances. He looks like he gets 3 miles well with a bit more still available if needed. He will need it here if he is to get the 4 timer as he is up against some decent performers. He is a stone better off than top weight D’Argent, who has won over this distance but who needs further than this these days. Another crack at the National may be on his agenda this season and this will be a step on the road, but won’t trouble the places. Idle Talk is another with Aintree possibilities. A classy horse that had a spell of getting rid of his jockey’s. His jumping problems may have been sorted as he managed to get round Aintree this year with the jockey still attached. He is highly weighted and has not won for nearly 3 years. Place at best. Wild Cane Ridge looks a frustrating sort. He’s put in some decent efforts at times, yet also some forgettable ones. If having one of those better days then he could make his 16-1 forecast starting price look massive. Malko De Beaumont could figure if he can last home. He has won of just short of 3 miles but never won beyond that. The ground conditions shouldn’t hamper him and he is lightly weighted. – VE

Selection: Can’t Buy Time
Danger 1: Wild Cane Ridge
Danger 2: Malko De Beaumont

3.25 Newcastle - WBX.COM NORTHUMBERLAND CHASE (A HANDICAP CHASE) 2m4f

This race is interesting if only because of its competitive nature and most of the 12 runners can be given chances, but the one for me is Akilak. This horse ran so well on seasonal reappearance and loves soft ground, he looks primed to run a big race and the Howard Johnson yard are one of the best in the north. The dangers look to be Just For Men, who runs off bottom-weight whilst Montgermont should run a big race off top-weight. This is a very tough race and many others are entitled to be battling out the finish.

Selection – Akilak
Danger 1 – Montgermont
Danger 2 – Just For Men

December 13th - Fallout

2008-12-19T14:34:00.002Z

Here's how the Scoop3 went in the end. Lets hope for better weather and a better performance this Saturday.

Race 1: Abandoned.
Race 2: Danger 2 was 2nd.
Race 3: Abandoned.
Race 4: The selection was 3rd and Danger 2 was 4th.
Race 5: Abandoned.
Race 6: The selection was 2nd with Dangers 1 & 2 in 4th & 5th.

13th December

2008-12-12T15:00:00.009Z

Abandoned races in italics.

Cheltenham 1:55 BOYLECASINO.COM NOVICES' CHASE (CLASS 2) - 2m5f

Racing at Cheltenham will be very dependent on the Great British weather, which is forecasted to turn very wet on Friday evening and Saturday morning. There is a good chance that the ground at Cheltenham will therefore be very heavy and it will take plenty of stamina and soft ground preferences to win this 2m5f race. In the field of 7 runners we have Buck The Legend who has form on soft ground and has winning handicap chase form, however he is carrying a penalty of 8lbs for his two wins in handicaps. He will have to improve once again to take this. Hold Em gets further than this and he likes soft ground, he is carrying a penalty of 5lbs which means he has a tough task facing him, if the race does turn into a battle then Hold Em could get involved in the finish. Naiad Du Misselot is the selection here though, he has no penalty to carry and the Ferdy Murphy yard are improving with time and the horse has won at this track in the past. He was outpaced over a shorter distance last time out but still showed glimpses of promise. His main danger could come from Slash And Burn who looks set to run a massive race. - JB

Selection: Naid Du Misselot
Danger 1: Slash And Burn
Danger 2: Buck The Legend

Doncaster 2:15 SG HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 4) - 2m3f110y

A nice and easy race here with 19 set to take part in a tough handicap hurdle, most of which look exposed and unlikely to improve in the future. The one exception to that is Puy D’Arnac who only has had 2 runs in the sphere, winning his debut before falling next time out. He has improved with racing on the flat and his handicap mark is based on last season’s efforts, which suggest that he should improve for the switch back to hurdling. He would like a bit of cut in the ground, which should come with overnight rain, and as such he is the selection. The dangers may come from Important Business and Smugglers Bay, the former has been running in much better races than this and has shown glimpses of running up to his handicap mark whilst the latter has potential and ran well to a point last time before blundering a hurdle and weakening fast. This race is wide open and not many of the field can be ruled out with much confidence. - JB

Selection: Puy D’Arnac

Danger 1: Important Business
Danger 2: Smugglers Bay

Cheltenham 2:30 BOYLESPORTS.COM GOLD CUP (HANDICAP CHASE) GRADE 3 (CLASS 1) (4yo+)

Imperial Commander obviously must be respected but my selection is going to be Fingeronthepulse who put in an average show last time out against Noland who has since gone on to G1 glory. The main danger is Silverburn who ended all chances 3 out when Imperial Commander beat him so convincely, the weight difference is much reduced now so he surely has all the chances to be closer, don't think he'll get past though.

Selection: Fingeronthepulse
Danger 1: Imperial Commander
Danger 2: Silverburn

Doncaster 2:45 Betdaq The Betting Exchange Handicap Chase (Class 2) (4 y o+) 3m

This interesting 3 mile Handicap Chase throws up a few useful sorts. Top weight is the Paul Nicholls trained Leading Attraction. He is fairly inexperienced with just 5 lifetime starts under rules. He has never been out of the places either in those races. He was beaten on his first run this season at Wincanton on soft ground but his better results have been on better ground which he should get here. He’s won over this trip and Sam Thomas takes the ride. In with a shout. Standin Obligation was once a very smart Novice hurdler and chaser but has lost his way over the last 2 years. He’s having his first start of the season and if he can re-capture some of the old sparkle then he could place. The distance or ground won’t be a problem to him. Another Promise is another who offered much but didn’t really deliver. Injury kept him off the track for a while and his first run this term ended with him being pulled up. There are better prospects in this race. One such horse is Ice Tea who won his last start at Wetherby. Another who has won over the distance and with no ground worries either he could make the frame. King Harald is a course and distance winner who in his time has won some nice races. Maybe age is now catching up with him now. He’s the oldest in the race and was pulled up last time. He may want further these days. 2 others in with every chance are Apollo Creed and Brave Rebellion. The former won races between 2 and 3 miles over the summer, although not in the class. The latter is unknown over this trip. All his wins have been at 2 and 2 ½ miles. He has a stone in hand over the top weight and if he lasts home he will have a good chance. – VE

Selection: Leading Attraction
Danger 1: Brave Rebellion
Danger 2: Apollo Creed

Cheltenham 3:05 BOYLESPORTS.COM INTERNATIONAL (HURDLE) GRADE 2 (CLASS 1) (4yo+)

What a great race. 5 in with chances, the promising Binocular who failed at last seasons festival. Chelts is an interesting course, the horse has to like it but surely he can put those demons to rest. Katchit loves the course but hasn't shown past form this season, cannot possibly be discounted though! Crack Away Jack and Chomba Womba to fill the final spot, difficult decision but will side with Chomba on account of Nicky Henderson's fine form.

Selection: Binocular
Danger 1: Katchit
Danger 2: Chomba Womba

Doncaster 3:20 Betdaq In Running At 1% Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) (3 y o+) 2m 110yd
12 runners due to go to post in this tricky handicap hurdle. Every horse in the field has won at this distance some none can really be discounted on stamina issues. Top weight is Amazing King. He is looking for a 3rd victory in the last 4 weeks following an AW success on the flat and last time out at Musselburgh. Jockey James Reveley claims 3lbs which will help a little. At the other end of the weights is Duke Of Touraine. Having only his 3rd run over hurdles this 3 year old has won 2 and been 2nd in the other. The yard has been under the weather but if all clear then should run a big race. Stable mate Riquez Dancer is another in with a chance. He once beat Kalahari King in a novice hurdle although in the next race he finished 2nd to one who re-opposes here, Lazy Darren. Lazy Darren ran in the Haydock procession won by Binocular the other week. He and Riquez Dancer should be close to one another again. Gringo has had placed efforts on his last 2 starts. They were however at a lower class and when previously upped in class, he’s been found wanting. Los Nadis could have place claims. Ryan Mania takes off 7lbs finished runner up to Binocular in the Haydock race. Beaten last time by Amazing King when giving weight away, he is now receiving it. – VE

Selection: Duke Of Touraine
Danger 1: Los Nadis
Danger 2: Amazing King

Scoop 3 selections:

Puy D’Arnac
Leading Attraction
Duke Of Touraine

December 6th - Fallout

2008-12-09T09:11:00.002Z

Well, Nassau_Board (JB) had to fly solo this week but he did us proud managing to hit the place return between his selection and Danger 1. Well done. Hopefully anubisrich and myself won't hinder you too much on our returns.

Race 1: The selection was 2nd and Danger 2 was 4th.
Race 2: Danger 1 won beating the selection into 2nd.
Race 3: Danger 1 won.
Race 4: Danger 1 won with the selection in 4th.
Race 5: Danger 2 was 2nd, the selection was 3rd and Danger 1 was 4th.
Race 6: The selection was 2nd.

6th December

2008-12-05T19:26:00.004Z

1:25 SANDOWN- SIGN UP BONUS AT BETINTERNET.COM HANDICAP HURDLE (Distance 2m6f)

The Scoop6 starts off with a fiendishly looking handicap hurdle to be run over 2 mile 6 furlongs on soft ground. I think you need a horse with plenty of stamina and proven form on the soft ground. Races like these are normally won by a horse who is improving and have potential to go on to bigger things. Therefore I am ruling out all horses over the age of 6, as there are plenty of young fresh horses who are open to more improvement. Talenti is the selection, the horse is lightly raced and whilst there is some stamina doubts the horse ran nicely over 2 1/2 miles last season. The most important point is that the horse has run its best races on soft or slower ground and looks to be on a fair mark. Earth Crystal looks a very interesting runner who won on hurdles debut at Ascot last season on soft ground and Henderson's yard are in great form. The other main danger could be King Jack, another horse who has very good form on ground that is soft or slower.

Selection = Talenti
Danger 1 = Earth Crystal
Danger 2 = King Jack

2:00 Sandown - BETINTERNET.COM HENRY VIII NOVICES' CHASE GRADE 2 (2 miles)

This is an odd race for the Scoop6 as it looks really uncompetitive at first glances with the impressive Free World lining up against only 4 rivals. The race is between three horses for me, Free World is the odds on favourite whilst Araldur and Cheating Chance are open to more improvement. Free World has to be the selection as the Nicholls yard have said that he is the equal to Tatenen at home, and that horse has looked untouchable in his Novice Chases. Free World has not raced on ground this soft in the UK but he should have no problems handling the ground and if jumping round he will be in with a shout at the finish. Araldur has been making haste with his chasing mark, and then beat Chapoturgeon very nicely in a novice chase last time, which could show that he is improving. Further improvement will be necessary to beat Free World here. Cheating Chance has a similar profile to Araldur and having won a handicap he went and took a novice chase, this looks much tougher.

Selection - Free World
Danger 1 - Araldur
Danger 2 - Cheating Chance

2:50 Wetherby - BLUE SQUARE HANDICAP CHASE (2 miles)

This is a very trappy handicap chase around Wetherby, in which many hold claims, the main ones being Polar Gunner, Wee Forbees and Pen Gwen. The selection is Wee Forbees whose third to Snoopy Loopy is working out rather well, and he loves ground which is soft. He is also lightly raced and has stamina if this turns into a slog. Polar Gunner is the veteran of the field at the age of 11, he loves it when the ground is testing and should run very well off his current mark. Pen Gwen is not a soft ground specialist but would hold claims if producing his best form and the likes of Euro American and Miss Pross cannot be ignored either.

Selection - Wee Forbees
Danger 1 - Polar Gunner
Danger 2 - Pen Gwen

3:05 Sandown - BEST ODDS GUARANTEED AT BETINTERNET.COM HANDICAP HURDLE (2 miles)

This is another difficult race to unravel with many last time out winners in the field. The race revolves around two points, the first is how good will Blue Shark be after his long lay off, if he is as good as he was then he will take a good deal of beating here. The second is how good are Tchico Polos and Sunnyhillboy, who are from Nicholls and O'Neill respectively. I am siding with Hernando Royal who keeps running well in defeat, he loves the soft ground and now with a swing in the weights with Sunnyhillboy and his jockeys claim he will be carrying a featherweight in this handicap. Tchico Polos won his novice hurdle very well at Wincanton when beating the highly touted Ravello Bay, he is open to plenty of improvement and could run well. He is on handicap debut so we do not know how good he is in comparison to his mark. Sunnyhillboy won a cracker last time out at Cheltenham when defying a 10lb hike in the handicap. He will have to continue that sharp progression to score once again and has to be a main danger to the selection.

Selection - Hernando Royal
Danger 1 - Sunnyhillboy
Danger 2 - Tchico Polos

3:20 Wetherby - BLUE SQUARE POKER HANDICAP CHASE (3 miles 1 furlong)

Another trappy handicap in the Scoop 6 this time over a longer trip which will increase the need for horses to go on the soft ground and stay well. One such horse is Malko De Beaumont who has won in bottomless ground over these staying trips. He is obviously in good heart and will take a lot of beating in this race. In opposition we have some useful performers with the likes of Morgan Be and Just For Men likely to be prominent in the betting. The former of those two is very good on this sort of ground and is unexposed whilst the latter may struggle to stay this distance but does look to be coming back to his best.

Selection - Malko De Beaumont
Danger 1 - Morgan Be
Danger 2 - Just For Men

3:35 Sandown - BETINTERNET.COM LONDON NATIONAL CHASE (3 miles 5 furlong)

The Scoop 6 finishes with a marathon, and a competitive one at that. The one I like is low in the weights and looks primed to run a big race. L'Aventure is the horse in question and ran an absolute beauty in the Southern National staying on really well as is her way. She gets outpaced in races and takes plenty of cajoling to get into a race but she looks certain to be running on up the hill at the finish, she should be fitter for this and could prove a bit of a shock winner. Hello Bud has an obvious chance but is rising up the handicap for the last two wins. He will be short in the market and this could be tougher for the horse. The main dangers could well be Leading Authority and Sporting Rebel, the former ran nicely in a good Wincanton listed handicap last time whilst the latter if proving his stamina should go well on seasonal reappearance.

Selection - L'Aventure
Danger 1 - Leading Authority
Danger 2 - Sporting Rebel

gl all - JB

29th November

2008-11-28T15:30:00.007Z

Newbury 2:05 Toteswinger Long Distance Hurdle (Grade 2) (4 yo+) 3m 110y

We start today at Newbury with everyones favourite hurdler Inglis Drever making his return to the track. I for one, as many did, thought he would be retired following his 3rd World Hurdle win back in March. Connections decided otherwise and ran him at Aintree where he was defeated by Blazing Bailey. Inglis Drever has won this race for the last 3 years but will time catch up with him this season? Blazing Bailey is the obvious danger to Inglis Drever's chances of victory here. His old foe has tasted both victory and defeat against ID in the past. The last time being at Aintree where Blazing Bailey won. He has the benefit of a pipe opener on the flat where he won over 12f and I think he has the edge here. Pettifour and Mobaasher came up against each other at Wetherby earlier this month. The former just pipped the latter and there won't be much between them again here. The other with a big chance is Duc De Regniere. The inform Nicky Henderson runner won last time out when reverting back to hurdles following a novice chase season. The unknown factor is the trip as he's never gone beyond 21f. If he lasts home he could find the places. - VE

Selection: Blazing Bailey
Danger 1: Inglis Drever

Danger 2: Duc De Regniere

Newcastle 2:25 WBX.com Handicap Chase (Class 4) (4 yo+) 3m

13 are due to go to post in this 3 mile Handicap Chase and 3 of the field faced each other just over 2 weeks ago here at Newcastle in an almost identical race to this. On that day Jethro Tull fared best finishing second, 2 ½ lengths ahead of Stravaigin. Day Du Roy was a further 22+ lengths back in 6th. Jethro Tull received 10lbs from Stravaigin that day and now 8lbs for this race. His first two outings this season, after a lengthy lay off, both resulted in being pulled up, but since then he has been placed twice over course and distance. Stravaigin has James Reveley on board claiming a useful 3lbs. He has a distance win in Novice company to his name and the ground shouldn’t be a problem. Can he reverse form with Jethro Tull? Day Du Roy is only 4lbs lighter than Jethro Tull. I can’t see him troubling the judge. Top weight is carried by Ngong Hills who has been victorious in his last 2 starts. They have come over 1 furlong further and shorter than the trip here. The unknown factor for him is the ground. It is currently Good to Soft. The majority of his runs have been on Good ground and his wins have been on Firm and Good to Firm. His only effort on Soft/Heavy ended in being pulled up. If it stays dry and the ground isn’t too much on the soft side then he has a big chance. The weight will also be key. Of the rest Festival King (if sorting out his inconsistencies) and Alto Stratus could trouble the places. - VE

Selection: Jethro Tull
Danger 1: Ngong Hills
Danger 2: Stravaigin

Newbury 2:40 Hennessy Gold Cup Chase (Handicap) (Grade 3) (Class 1)

Well the Hennessy Gold Cup is always a competitive handicap chase and this year it is no different with 17 set to run in this grade 3 race. My antepost selection has been Big Bucks, who I know is thought to be a future Gold Cup horse, he is only 5 years old and must have come on for another summer on his back. He has beaten the likes of Albertas Run when he was stepped up to 3 miles 1 furlong, that race was very impressive and it clearly shows that the further they go the better Big Bucks should be. I am not a fan of Albertas Run, he never really convinces me in his races but he holds Air Force One through a line off Roll Along, so has to come into contention. Air Force One looks to be harshly treated for his return run this year, going up in the handicap despite having the run of the race and still not proving good enough, I have to take him on. At the bottom of the handicap is Island Flyer who was held on the line by another Nicholls horse last time in Cornish Sett, and this race looks to be even tougher, the light weight could make him hard to chase down if getting a lead. Character Building is also towards the bottom of the handicap and looks to be returning to form after a full season out, we know he likes it around here and therefore he has to be high on the shortlist. However the two dangers I am putting forward are Slim Pickings, who looks primed for this race and is a decent EW price and Dear Villez who stayed really well last time out in a 3 miles handicap chase in Ireland. - JB

Selection: Big Bucks
Danger 1: Slim Pickings
Danger 2: Dear Villez

Newcastle 3:00 WBX.com Rehearsal Chase (Listed Handicap) (4 yo+) 3m

This race has been won in recent times by such horses as See More Business, Sir Rembrandt, One Knight and Neptune Collonges. So who join them next? There are some interesting runners in this one. Last year’s winner Harmony Brig lines up again, although he has done nothing of note since taking this and there are others preferred to him. Battlecry is the forecast favourite. He was 3rd in the Royal & SunAlliance Chase at Cheltenham to Albertas Run (who goes in the Hennessey along with Air Force One). Roll Along and Joe Lively have come out of that race and won nicely this season, so hopefully Battlecry will improve on his 2nd place a fortnight ago. The trip should be ideal for him and his trainer is in fine form. The main opposition could come in the form of Finger Onthe Pulse, although I have my doubts as to whether he is suited by this 3 mile trip. He has only tried a 3 mile+ trip once and came last to Air Force One at Punchestown. Anything on the soft side will test his stamina further. L’Antartique is having his first run of the season and is one that goes well fresh. Only once in 4 seasons has he failed to win on his first run. Last year’s Paddy Power Chase winner has a great chance if lasting the distance. Aces Four is from the same stable and is another having his first run of the season. He saddles top weight here. A course and distance winner 2 year’s ago, he could be in the frame if back to his best. One Sniff could have place claims too. He has only had 5 lifetime runs, winning 3 of them. Can he cope with a big step up in class is the question? - VE

Selection: Battlecry
Danger 1: L’Antartique
Danger 2: One Sniff

3:15 NEWBURY: totesport.com Handicap Chase (Class 2)

This handicap chase revolves around the possible improvement in form of the seasonal debutantes Billyvoddan, New Little Bric and Randwick Roar. The former is a nine year old who looks exposed at this trip and this seems a handicapping ploy for another attempt at the Grand National, he is lightly raced but will need to be at his very best to win this off top weight. Randwick Roar is an interesting runner, he was very progressive in January and February before having a 9 months break, he is relatively lightly raced for a 9 year old and should improve more this season, however this may prove too tough. New Little Bric is a younger horse and whilst disappointing in the past he definitely has the ability to win this. He has had the customary wind op and looks likely to progress from this mark. Classic Fiddle is short in the market but open to much more improvement and she jumps right at the fences, which will not suit around here. The other main danger is Yes Sir, a horse who is fit and ran a massive race in the Paddy Power before falling 4 out. If he is over that mistake he should make this a real test and looks set to make a massive run of it.

Selection – New Little Bric
Danger 1 – Yes Sir
Danger 2 – Classic Fiddle

Newbury 3:45 totescoop6 Intermediate Hurdle Race (Ltd Handicap)

Another competitive hurdle race for the Scoop6 punters to unravel and Squadron seems to be the obvious selection. His form this season is brilliant in regards to this field, having chased Crack Away Jack home on seasonal reappearance before winning nicely at Aintree and then finishing a good 5th in the Greatwood Hurdle. The worry with Squadron is that he is becoming very high in the handicap; therefore I feel others could provide a shock win. I like Hot Diamond, a horse who runs really nicely without getting his head in front, and this looks tougher for him and therefore he is taken on. The selection therefore is Khyber Kim, who was very smart on the flat and is very lightly raced over hurdles, his form behind Pierrot Lunaire looks really nice in this heat and he must run a big race carrying top weight. He could turn into a Champion Hurdle horse if he proves his well being here. The other danger looks to be the very useful bumper horse Helens Vision. - JB

Selection: Khyber Kim
Danger 1: Squadron
Danger 2: Helens Vision

November 22nd - Fallout

2008-11-26T08:19:00.002Z

Well the massive Scoop6 jackpot was won last Saturday but sadly not with our selections and here's why.

Race 1: Dangers 1 & 2 came 3rd & 4th.
Race 2: Danger 1 was 2nd.
Race 3: Danger 2 faired best coming 4th.
Race 4: The Selection won.
Race 5: Danger 1 won with Danger 2 in 2nd.
Race 6: Danger 1 was 3rd.

22nd November

2008-11-21T19:37:00.005Z

Lingfield 2:10 BETTER PRICES, BIGGER WINS AT LADBROKES.COM HANDICAP (CLASS 2)

A competitive heat with 4 last time out winners competing in this field of 10, where pace will be the key factor. The pace will be dictated by Atlantic Story, Markab, My Gatcho and Quest For Success, and unfortunately for those mentioned Lingfield is a track that suits hold up horses who come strong and fast at the finish. Swift Gift is one horse who looks likely to be ridden from the back and is highly progressive and lightly raced. He is one from one on the all weather and should go well off this mark. Others to note are Majuro and Beat The Bell who both look well handicapped - JB.

Selection: Quest For Success
Danger 1: Majuro
Danger 2: Beat The Bell

Lingfield 2:40 E B F PLAY BINGO AT LADBROKES.COM FILLIES' HANDICAP (CLASS 4)

This race is very tough to call and the market tells us all that we need to know, of the 12 runners 7 are under 10/1. The race again looks framed for hold up horses, so the likes of Izzibizzi and Secret Night are the ones to follow. I am siding with the former, she is in good form and whilst the stable are not in the best of form she looks primed to go well. Secret Night was very eyecatching over this course when being hampered at a crucial point in the sprint for home. The other danger could well be Spring Goddess who has form over this distance and should be in the shakeup - JB.

Selection: Izzibizzi
Danger 1: Secret Night
Danger 2: Spring Goddess

Haydock 2:45 TIMEFORM BETFAIR RACING CLUB HANDICAP CHASE (CLASS 2)

A nice big pot here and a competitive handicap as a result. At this stage in the season it is worth following the trainers in form so that immediately brings onto the shortlist Mister Quasimodo, Naunton Brook and Osako D'airy but it is Glasker Mill who catches my eye after a promising first run. Rambling Minster is another out after a promising outing and he will get the trip which is going to be key. Glasker Hill pips Rambling Minster slightly with Nicholls' horse an obvious danger - AR.

Selection: Glasker Mill
Danger 1: Rambling Minster
Danger 2: Osako D'airy

Lingfield 3:20 BET AT LADBROKES ON 0800 777 888 CHURCHILL STAKES (LISTED RACE)

Mr Aviator is the C&D winner and will no doubt fill a lot of selections but Yahrab makes interesting viewing as it's Spencer on a front runner. Now this kid has his faults but he can judge a pace really well and could surprise here. Re Barolo, ever consistent, could go one better than his last two outings but we're after recent winners for the AW and so my final danger is the classy Bronze Cannon who performed brilliantly earlier in the season and, if improved, could put them all to the sword here. If you definitely want to win you'd have most of these across all your lines - AR.

Selection: Yahrab
Danger 1: Mr Aviator
Danger 2: Bronze Cannon

Huntingdon 3:30 TOTESCOOP6 MILLIONAIRE MAKER HANDICAP HURDLE (CLASS 4) (4yo+) 3m2f

If we’ve got 4 out of 4 so far then I apologise in advance! This 15 runner handicap hurdle has been selected to scupper the dreams of many. Lets try and make it 5 out of 5. Top weight is Left Hand Drive. In his time he has won Class 3 & 4 Novice Hurdles, although his last run over the smaller obstacles was nearly 18 months ago. He has been unsuccessful at this distance on all previous attempts and can’t see him figuring. Fourth in the weights is the forecast favourite, House Of Bourbon. He has never tried this distance before although has been 3m a few times, with 2 runner’s up finishes at Cork over the summer. There are others who could do better than this one. One of those is Millards Lad. Another one reverting to hurdles after going chasing, he is the mount of Jamie Moore. He had 2 promising runs over hurdles in the summer before unseating in the infamous whip stealing race at Cheltenham last week. Acosta won last time out for the first time. It was over this distance but on soft ground. There is nothing else in his form to suggest he is suited by good ground so will discount him. If it chucks it down between now and race time it could be a different matter. Heathcliff has only 6 lifetime runs to his name. His last race was his best by far, although in Class 5 company. He returns after a lengthy layoff and gets just over a stone from the top weight plus the jockey taking off 7lbs. Pearly Star is another who would need it softer to figure here along with Low Delta. - VE

Selection: Millards Lad
Danger 1: Heathcliff
Danger 2: House Of Bourbon

Lingfield 3:50 BETTER PRICES, BIGGER WINS AT LADBROKES.COM GOLDEN ROSE STAKES (LISTED RACE) (CLASS 1) (3yo+) 6f

Well it could all come down to this! How many million is it? The field is likely to be reduced to 11 as War Officer is a doubt so that helps a little. We’ll start with Duff with Kevin Manning over from Ireland for this his one and only ride of the day. A listed winner over 7f & 8f, his last 2 outings have been in Group 1 & 2 company. The trip appears on the short side but he could be capable of taking this. Bonus ran only 3 days ago and was beaten in a Class 3. Not shown the form of last season so far this year. Ceremonial Jade is an ultra consistent AW performer. He has only finished twice outside of the first 3 from 13 starts on the sand. Has a 2nd place finish over course and distance in a Listed contest from earlier in the year and has won his last 2 starts, both at 6f. Chief Editor has mainly been campaigned at 5f until recently. His last 3 runs have been over 6f resulting in 1 victory and 1 place. The placed effort was in Listed class. Should be in the frame. Maltese Falcon hasn’t won since taking this last year. His last start was very disappointing, but came after a layoff so he may come on for the run. Personally there are others in front of him. One of which is Prohibit. Owned by Khalid Abdullah, he returned to winning ways last time out on the AW over 6f. He finished 3rd behind Sir Gerry earlier in the season over this distance and should be in the first 4. Swiss Franc returns after a layoff for his first run on AW. His previous 2 runs were at Listed level, one of which saw him finish 3rd in front of Prohibit. In his 2 year old season he contested some pretty good races, finishing 2nd to Henrythenavigator in the Coventry Stakes, 3rd to Winker Watson in the July Stakes and 3rd to Sir Gerry in the Gimcrack Stakes. If he can reproduce some of that 2 year old form then he takes this. Big if though!! - VE

Selection: Ceremonial Jade
Danger 1: Swiss Franc
Danger 2: Chief Editor

Quest For Success
Izzibizzi
Glasker Mill
Yahrab
Millards Lad
Ceremonial Jade

November 15th Fallout

2008-11-16T14:15:00.002Z

No winners this week from the panel and indeed the 6 races proved again beyond the punters with another rollover next week. Here is the breakdown.

Race 1: Joe Lively, Danger 1, won with the Selection back in 3rd, tiring up the hill. The Novice chaser continues his good form, definitely one to watch this season.
Race 2: Barbers Shop, Danger 1, came in second behind the impressive Imperial Commander. The selection, Silverburn, blundered badly when asked for an effort.
Race 3: Ice Tea, Danger 1, kept on gamely for the win. The selection was disappointing and Danger 2 was a non runner.
Race 4: Danger 2 was the best performer coming in third. Fair Along mentioned as a threat, conditions worked in his favour the the horse found plenty in terms of stamina and just made it home.
Race 5: The selection and firm favourite, Knockavilla, was going along well when making a novicy error, the risk didnt pay off for me and certainly a lot of other punters who would have had in their selection. The winner was mentioned and discarded but won it very impressively under a confident ride.
Race 6: Danger 1 was doing the best but Busker Royal fell at the second last when having every chance.

15th November

2008-11-14T15:42:00.005Z

Cheltenham 2:00 Servo Computer Services Trophy Handicap Chase Grade 3 (Class 1) (4yo+)

Grand National winner Comply or Die makes his reappearance here but I expect, like most Pipe runners, he will need the run. Beat The Boys is chosen as the selection as Twiston-Davies is in great form and in the testing conditions a light weight is a plus. Joe Lively, from my local stable, is best of the rest and was a great novice last season. He could be good enough here but Tizzard isn't in amazing form at the moment so I'll watch him this time out. Opera Mundi has to be respected purely because of the Walsh/Nicholls partnership. Came out all guns blazing when fresh last term but Beat The Boys is chosen to continue his novice form at this higher grade - AR.

Selection: Beat The Boys
Danger 1: Joe Lively
Danger 2: Opera Mundi

Cheltenham 2:35 Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase (Handicap) (Grade 3) (4yo+) 2m4f

The former Mackeson Gold Cup, as some will know it, is the next race up. In the last 10 running’s the favourite has landed the spoils 5 times. The likely favourite at time of writing is Silverburn. The full brother to Denman, trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden by Ruby Walsh who has had a well publicised breathing operation over the summer. He seems relatively lightly weighted on 10st11lbs, receiving just over a stone from the top weight, and has won over the distance. There is a lot in his favour providing he shows no ill effects from his surgery. Another well thought of is Barbers Shop. Owned by The Queen, he won his last race of last season after narrowly being beaten at the festival on the previous start. He beat Silverburn in a bumper in 2006, then finished behind him in a race last year won by Joe Lively. The new Henderson/Geraghty combination is in fine form this season and the trip and ground shouldn’t be a problem. Carries 1lbs less than Silverburn. The lightly weighted Bible Lord has been the market mover during the week. Only confirmed a run on Thursday, he is now a general 10-1 shot. He carries joint bottom weight of 10st5lbs and is another that shouldn’t have ground or trip worries. His last run was here at Cheltenham when he was beaten into 3rd place by another of the runners in this race, Ouzbeck. Ouzbeck has won 4 out of 5 chases he has contested and was a course and distance winner last time out. Most of his wins and decent runs have been on good ground which is a concern given the projected soft conditions. Imperial Commander has not been seen for nearly a year since trailing home last of 4 in a 25f race. Prior to that he won at this meeting in novice company over course and distance and should he return to that form he has a chance. Others to take note of are Stan and Maljimar. Stan was victorious in Grade 2 company last season and has had one run so far this season. That was a 2nd place finish over a trip on the short side. Maljimar won a Grade 3 last season before unseating in his final start. Ground conditions shouldn’t bother this course and distance winner and with a fairly light weight he could make the frame. I am torn over which of the first two picks gets the nod. Knowing my luck it will be the other that takes it! - VE

Selection: Silverburn
Danger 1: Barbers Shop
Danger 2: Maljimar

Wetherby 2:55 £2.5million totescoop6 Handicap Chase (Class 3) (4yo+,0-130)

A very open handicap chase for horses rated 0 to 130, with the likes of Killard Point and Ice Tea likely to be close to the head of the market. Leading Man is the best horse in the race but he is top weight and from a stable which is on a dreadful run, he has to be opposed. The opposition should come in the form of former course winners Shrewd Investor, Super Road Train and Laertes. Shrewd Investor ran a fair race last time out until weakening 3 out; he looks too high in the handicap and therefore has to be taken on. Super Road Train has some fair form this season, but is one that will be staying on at the finish as he wants further than this. Laertes was very poor on seasonal reappearance when finishing well behind Super Road Train, however he is running on better ground here and is well below his hurdles mark. He can go with the early pace and has stamina in abundance, therefore he is the selection. His main dangers are likely to come from Ice Tea and Rakalackey - JB.

Selection: Laertes
Danger 1: Ice Tea
Danger 2: Rakalackey

Cheltenham 3:10 Cleanevent Handicap Hurdle (Listed) (4yo+) 3m1f

The forth leg is this tricky handicap hurdle over 3 miles and a furlong. Fair Along who has been campaigned over both hurdles and fences has another crack at the smaller obstacles, but over an unknown trip for him. It is 3f further than he has ever been before and he carries a fair weight. The 7lbs removed by the claiming jockey will help. Will his class carry him through? Doubts for me. Pride Of Dulcote represents the Nicholls/Walsh team. He won last time out over 3 miles but in nothing like the class of this race. That was his only career victory and has been prone to a mistake or two with Walsh on board. Valerius is the mount of AP McCoy. This Irish raider has a win over this distance and a 2nd place finish behind another runner in this race last time out. On that occasion he was beaten by Diablo. Both were on the same weight that day and both are matched again here. Everything points to Diablo being in front of Valerius again too. Powerstation won’t be inconvenienced by the soft going but carrying top weight may be too much even with a 5lbs claim removed. The Sliotar from the David Pipe yard has wins on soft but not at this level. Has won over 25f but Cheltenham on soft is very different from Southwell on good to firm. On a breeding point this race features a half brother to Azamour in the shape of Ardalan. He has won over 3 miles but again the class was not this standard. May find a few too good. Sullumo has form on soft ground to back up his claims here. He has never been out of the first 3 so far in his career and has a good shout of continuing that run. – VE

Selection: Diablo
Danger 1: Valerius
Danger 2: Sullumo

Wetherby 3:25 totescoop6 Millionaire Maker Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (4yo+,0-130)

Knockavilla is the favourite but could be anything. Unexposed and therefore a big risk but I fancy him to win here. Another unexposed horse is Edas but of the two Kockavilla has shown enough previously to be the selection. My dangers will come from Ela Re, who has had the benefit of a run and should enjoy conditions, European Dream or Smoothly Does It from the Jim Best yard. Overall a wide open race, I could bash on about all of them but luck will need to come into play, many in with chances but I'll side with Knockavilla with Ela Re and Smoothly Does It in the mix - AR.

Selection: Knockavilla
Danger 1: Ela Re
Danger 2: Smoothly Does It

Cheltenham 3:45 Racing UK Novices' Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (3yo+,0-125)

Another large field assembling for a Novices’ Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham to be run over the extended 2 miles. The market looks very open with the likely favourite being a forecast 7/1, that horse, Busker Royal won a similar race to this at Aintree and goes up 6lbs for that effort. He has to be in with a cracking chance as he is lightly raced and open to plenty of improvement. He looks a typical hurdler as he is small and angular in build. His stable-mate Prince Du Beury is the selection though, this horse ran a cracker in defeat to Busker Royal last time. The impressive thing about his run was that he stayed on really nicely having been put into a poor position by his jockey, horses seldom pick up as well from off the pace at Aintree and because of that I think he should overturn the form with Busker Royal here, and as such he should take a lot of beating. Others in with chances are Keki Buki who won nicely last time out, but he will surely be a better chaser than hurdler as he is very leggy, whilst Hernando Boy ran a nice race behind American Trilogy last time out. However for me the main danger could come from the bottom weight Jocheski who ran a very interesting race last time out, he was heavily punted and only went down by a short head. He looks certain to improve for his run on the flat just 17 days ago and could go very close off a mark that seems very fair - JB.

Selection: Prince Du Beury
Danger 1: Busker Royal
Danger 2: Jocheski

Beat The Boys
Silverburn
Laertes
Diablo
Knockavilla
Prince Du Beury

November 8th - Fallout

2008-11-12T08:29:00.002Z

anubisrich continued where he left off last week. Lets hope it rubs off on the rest of us with yet another roll over coming up. Good luck everyone.

Race 1: Dangers 1 & 2 finished 3rd & 4th.
Race 2: The Selection wins.
Race 3: Danger 2 finished best in 6th.
Race 4: Danger 1 finished best in 6th.
Race 5: Dangers 1 & 2 finished 2nd & 3rd.
Race 6: Danger 2 wins.

8th November

2008-11-07T19:24:00.004Z

Doncaster 1:30 TOTESPORT.COM NURSERY (CLASS 4) (2yo,0-85)

Well a mere 16 runner nursery at Doncaster for us to study, with Harry Patch being a likely favourite. He won nicely at Nottingham in a maiden, but this gelding has been given a mark of 78 for his handicap debut, the form of that race has not really worked out and his sire is Lujain. Lujain is a stallion whose progeny I think go best on firmer ground, whilst the damsire is Indian Ridge who is another influence for firm ground progeny. Horses who have good handicap form are Lucky Numbers, Kingswinford and Count Paris. The latter is the selection, having won twice on soft ground and run nicely over this course last time out, that day he did not quite get home and finished a decent 4th, he runs off the same mark here and should go close. Lucky Numbers was a winner last time out on heavy ground, so this race should suit, however this is a more competitive race and the penalty could be too much of a burden. The final danger could be Final Salute who won a 15 runner handicap on his first attempt in handicap company, he overcame trouble in running that day and could provide a danger despite a 6lbs rise in the weights - JB.

Selection – Count Paris
Danger 1 – Lucky Numbers
Danger 2 – Final Salute

Doncaster 2:05 TOTESPORTCASINO.COM E B F GILLIES FILLIES' STAKES (LISTED RACE) (CLASS 1) (3yo+)

A really weak event with many potential winners but I think it will be between mud loving Les Fazzani and Insaaf. The former is the better horse and is therefore taken as the selection. Classic Remark is the highest rated horse here by virtue of competing in a higher level and certainly cannot be ruled out but she needs to remember how to win again and whilst the ground isn't against her the stable isn't in form. Summer's Lease is unexposed and takes a step up in class here, could be anything and is chosen to fill the last spot - AR.

Selection: Les Fazzani
Danger 1: Insaaf
Danger 2: Summers Lease

Doncaster 2:35 Totesportgames.com Wentworth Stakes (Listed) (3yo+) 6f

A very nice 6 furlong Listed contest is next up with plenty holding chances, which isn’t what we like to hear! Conditions at Doncaster are set to be soft so horses with a liking for it are where we’ll start. The forecast favourite is Chief Editor who has been campaigned mainly on softer surfaces and the AW. Of his 5 lifetime victories, 2 were on the AW and 2 on Good to soft. His last run was a win over this 6f trip but on good to firm ground. Whether he can see out the trip in more testing conditions remains to be seen and I’m going to look for the winner elsewhere. Judge ‘N Jury has been in red hot form recently and won’t be put off by the soft conditions. What may put him off is running a furlong further through those soft conditions. All 7 of his wins have been over 5f and the best finish when run further was 3rd in a 2year old Class 5 maiden. Another I’m opposing. Main Aim scored over course and distance on soft in September. His last run was too short so a step back up to 6f should suit. In the frame. Zidane’s last win came in Listed class at the start of the season. Since then he has been campaigned in all Group levels. He has won on soft over 6f so that won’t be a problem. He is re-united with Jamie Spencer who is on a good run right now and who was in the saddle for that last victory. Angus Newz is a listed winner who has won in the worst conditions possible. A return to the form of her Chester win will see her go close. A couple of outsiders to consider are Perfect Flight and Perfect Polly. I’ll try not to mix them up. Perfect Flight is a consistent soft ground performer. 6f is the ideal trip and could offer some E/W value. Perfect Polly is a Listed winner who hasn’t had too hard a season. Was not quite good enough in Group 3 company but a return to Listed level may see improvement - VE.

Selection: Zidane
Danger 1: Main Aim
Danger 2: Perfect Polly

Doncaster 3:10 £2 MILLION TOTESCOOP6 NOVEMBER HANDICAP (HERITAGE HANDICAP) (CLASS 2) (3yo+)

This mile and a half handicap is just as problematic as the previous weeks have been and will be no surprise if there’s another roll over. The current market leader is Electrolyser. Carrying bottom weight he has already won a handicap over this distance in soft ground. His lack of experience is a concern but hopefully he will have improved from his last win. At the other end of the weights is Previs. The mount of Ryan Moore, Previs is untried over this distance. His wins have come over 10f and never on anything this soft. Avoid. The Betchworth Kid has been winning over further than this trip. His stamina will hopefully come in to play in the conditions. First Avenue is another who is lightly weighted. Soft ground won’t hinder his chances either and should go close. Young Mick has been a solid performer but may well be too high in the weights to figure here. He gets the 12f no problem and soft ground won’t bother him. Had he been lower in the weights then almost a cert for a place. Menwaal is an interesting Irish raider. His last run brought a win over the mile and a half in soft conditions. As mentioned in the previous preview Jamie Spencer, who takes the mount, has his confidence back and is riding as good as ever -VE.

Selection: Electrolyser
Danger 1: First Avenue
Danger 2: Menwaal

Wincanton 3:25 BADGER ALES TROPHY (HANDICAP CHASE) (LISTED RACE) (CLASS 1)

A listed Chase which is full of potential improvers, whatever wins this race will be one to keep on the right side of. The market probably will be headed by the familiar partnership of Nicholls and Walsh, this time with Leading Attraction, a lightly raced second season chaser, who is bound to improve for his racing this year. He is on handicap debut here and has to be feared. Another second season chaser is Island Flyer who finished last season in superlative form, winning three in a row. This is a step up in class for the horse but the horse is at the bottom of the handicap and is open to plenty of improvement. However, the selection is an Alan King horse ridden by Robert Thornton, Trigger The Light. This horse is unbeaten over chase fences and has some very nice hurdling form in the book, add to this the yards great form and he looks like a solid selection in a trappy race - JB.

Selection: Trigger The Light
Danger 1: Island Flyer
Danger 2: Leading Attraction

Doncaster 3:45 TOTESPORTBINGO.COM HANDICAP (CLASS 2) (3yo+,0-100)

Axiom and Medici Pearl should be the two market leaders here and the ground is in their favour. Although it is a drop in trip for Axiom I still think the quality is there and he should get up on the line. There to profit if he doesn't will be Medici Pearl or perhaps Charm School but the latter was held by Axiom last time out and you can't see any reason why that will be reversed. Medici Pearl is consistent, if he can apply that to a higher grade he should go close. At much longer odds Invincible Force is low down in the weights for this step up in trip and could be interesting. He certainly has the ability it's just whether, in a field this size, the pace will be too strong.

Selection: Axiom
Danger 1: Medici Pearl
Danger 2: Invincible Force

Count Paris
Les Fazzani
Zidane
Electrolyser
Trigger The Light
Axiom

November 1st - Fallout

2008-11-03T10:16:00.002Z

Well we finally have a selection that wins outright! Plenty of Dangers have been picked out and won but at last we got one right! anubisrich takes the honour! Here's how we did.

Race 1: Dangers were highest placed in 6th & 7th.
Race 2: Danger 2 beats the selection with danger 1 in 3rd.
Race 3: Danger 1 was 2nd.
Race 4: The Selection wins beating Danger 1 by a neck.
Race 5: Danger 1 was best in 6th.
Race 6: Danger 1 wins with danger 2 in 3rd.

1st November

2008-10-31T15:24:00.005Z

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:

Font
Air Force One
Rosy Mantle
Pettifour
Vital Statistics
Bankable

October 25th - Fallout

2008-10-27T09:02:00.003Z

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

2008-10-24T12:39:00.012+01:00

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

2008-10-20T15:27:00.003+01:00

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

2008-10-17T19:29:00.013+01:00

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

Laa Rayb
Pacha D’Oudaires
Ashram
Sou’Wester
Hotham
Arc Bleu

October 11th - Fallout

2008-10-13T09:24:00.003+01:00

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

2008-10-10T22:31:00.005+01:00

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

Princess Ellis
Tastahil
Jim Bobs Girl
Captain Dunne
Taameer
Amanjena

October 4th - Fallout

2008-10-04T23:45:00.003+01:00

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

2008-10-03T02:13:00.016+01:00

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

Kissing The Camera
Middlemarch
Weald Park
Frognal
Darjina
Yaddree