Yard Seven Barrows
Where Lambourn, West Berkshire
Started training 1978
Horses in yard 148
Members of staff 56
Head lad Corky Browne
Second in command Charlie Morlock
Assistant trainers Toby Lawes, Clare Alexander, Mary Vestey
Assistant head lad Juergen Werthenbach
Travelling head lads Richard Nicholas, Sarah Shreeve, Rebecca King, Jack Findlater
Jockeys Nico de Boinville, Jerry McGrath, James Bowen, Barry Geraghty, Noel Fehily, David Bass, Daryl Jacob
Conditionals Ned Curtis, Alan Doyle
Secretary Carolyn Harty
Accounts Susanna Wyatt
Stable sponsor Unibet
WINNERS IN BRITAIN
2017-18 141
2016-17 154
2015-16 81
2014-15 129
PROFIT/LOSS TO A £1 STAKE
2017-18 -76.49
2016-17 -113.50
2015-16 -101.03
2014-15 -58.50
TOTAL PRIZE-MONEY 2017-18
£3,477,604
Pedigree: three-year-old gelding
Kamsin (sire) – Anabasis (dam)
Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
Form figures: 21-3
Racing Post Rating 122 hurdle; official rating –
A smart hurdler in France, he has size and scope and is hopefully going to be more than just a Triumph prospect.
4g Shantou – The Adare Woman
R A Bartlett
3
RPR – OR –
Stayed on encouragingly in a bumper at Newbury last week, he’s among a crop of lovely youngsters we’ve got and goes hurdling now.
4g Gold Well – She’s Our Banker
Mrs Patricia Pugh
2
RPR 100 OR –
Was a bit backward, but was a solid second on his only start in a competitive Ludlow bumper and has had a good summer. Goes hurdling.
4g Shantou – Mystic Masie
Walters Plant Hire & Ronnie Bartlett
1- (point-to-point form)
RPR 94p OR –
Impressive in his only point, he has the attributes of a high-class novice hurdler and is likely to start in that sphere, but there’s no rush and he has an enormous future.
Star quality
8g High Chaparral – Monte Solaro
Mrs Patricia Pugh
111/111-
RPR 183c OR 175c
I’m glad he maintained his unbeaten record over obstacles last season, but it wasn’t all plain sailing after he missed the first half of the campaign following a small wind operation. He was a comfortable winner of the Game Spirit on his return and followed up in the Champion Chase when he may have been in a spot of bother, but Nico, wisely, allowed him time before they took off and flew home. We thought about 2m4f at Aintree, but stuck to 2m and the Celebration Chase, which he was pretty faultless in. The Shloer Chase on Sunday may be an option for his return as is the Tingle Creek.
Sandown 28.4.18 Pic: Edward Whitaker
4f Saddler Maker – Apple’s For Ever
John P McManus
111143-
RPR 137h OR 142h
This likeable filly – a sister to Apple’s Jade – won a brace of Grade 2s for us after arriving from France, but was disappointing in the Triumph, although she ended a good season by finishing third to We Have A Dream in Aintree’s Grade 1 juvenile hurdle. There’s no reason she shouldn’t progress and the senior mares’ hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival is an obvious target.
7g Presenting – Pretty Puttens
Middleham Park Racing Lxiii & K Sohi
122/2
RPR 113h OR –
A bumper winner a couple of years ago, he’s been the sidelines, but was a creditable second over hurdles at Worcester in July. He’s a good-ground horse and will jump a fence in time.
8g Alkaadhem – Christy’s Pride
Mrs Mary-Anne Parker
8-1430P
RPR 125h OR 124h
Mr Consistent over hurdles and fences, he won nicely at Towcester in the spring but was a bit disappointing at Wincanton on Saturday. He needs decent conditions to be at his best.
3g Finsceal Fior – Annamanamoux
A Davis
735 (Flat form)
RPR 64F OR 67F
A scopey Flat recruit who looks more of a National Hunt type, he is a strong gelding whose jumping has been excellent, so he shouldn’t take long to come to hand.
10g Milan – Knotted Midge
Michael Buckley
30-1142
RPR 145c 139c
He was a high-class novice hurdler, beating Cole Harden and Don Poli in Grade 1s, but things haven’t gone right for him since with niggly problems. However, he has won twice over fences recently on good ground, which he likes.
4f Getaway – Buck’s Blue
Crimbourne Stud
1
RPR 105b OR –
Owned by the enthusiastic Verdana Blue team, she was an easy winner of a bumper at Warwick in May, despite looking on the leg, and is an exciting prospect for mares’ novice hurdles.
5g Midnight Legend – Lady Samantha
Walters Plant Hire & James & Jean Potter
131-2U
RPR 121h OR –
I think he’s run two respectable races over hurdles, but he unseated Nico at Chepstow last time, although he might have won had they not parted company. He’ll be out again soon.
8g Shantou – Native Bid
G B Barlow
74/1P4P-
RPR 153c OR 148c
A lovely, big individual, he won the Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle last season, but found life difficult in the Welsh National. He ran well to be fourth in the Ultima at Cheltenham, but disappointed in the Scottish National. He doesn’t want extremes of ground and I still think he has the potential to win a nice staying handicap chase, hopefully with the word National in the title!
5g Flemensfirth – Blue Gale
Cheveley Park Stud
1- (point form)
RPR 92p OR –
He’s an exciting prospect who was impressive in his point and has thrived since joining us. The summer has done this gorgeous type the world of good and he will likely go hurdling. I hope he has a big future.
4g Jeremy – Onewayortheother
John P McManus
1- (point form)
RPR 91p OR –
Another quality point winner and it’d be hard to find a better individual. He could go hurdling, but would be capable of winning a bumper.
7g Kalanisi – Blonde Ambition
Michael Buckley
5/1UF2F-
RPR 162c OR 155c
He’s tested us, but is talented and won two good handicap hurdles in 2016-17 before going over fences last season, when he was a smart second in the Arkle to Footpad. That was testament to our fella’s ability, but then he fell at Aintree. He’s had a full MOT and still has potential to be high class.
6g Yeats – Sinful Pleasure
Robert Kirkland
112113
RPR 148c OR 144c
An amazing little horse who has won seven of his 12 starts, he has shown decent form over hurdles and fences, but I fear the handicapper may have had his say. 3m on good ground is what he wants.
6g Yeats – Spring Swoon
Trevor Hemmings
2/06379-
RPR 145h OR 142h
Smart in his bumpers and novice hurdles – he was fourth in the Neptune in 2017 – he is a capable sort I’m looking forward to seeing over fences this season. He stays well and appreciates better ground.
Star quality
7g Crillon – History
John P McManus
11/1111-
RPR 171h OR 169h
He was undefeated for the second consecutive season, winning the Fighting Fifth, Christmas and Contenders Hurdle before another Champion triumph. I imagine those races will be the plan again and possibly he’s an underestimated dual champion. I didn’t think he was at his very best at Cheltenham last season, but he’s had a small wind operation, which I think will help him, and he’s in particularly good order.
Lambourn 23.10.18 Pic: Edward Whitaker
5g Martaline – La Vie De Boitron
Michael Buckley
241126-
RPR 131h OR 130h
A good novice hurdler, he wants at least 2m4f and progressed enormously last term mentally and physically. He should have a bright future over fences.
5g Slickly – Sosa
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
1/31321-
RPR 164h OR 160h
He loves Sandown and won twice there last season, including a 16-length romp in the Select Hurdle, and he was also second in the Imperial Cup, when he gave 25lb to the winner in a tight finish we may have won on another day in the stewards’ room. We could try 3m and I don’t see him chasing yet, but that is not set in stone.
6g Presenting – Lasado
Middleham Park Racing LXXX
141/
RPR 120b OR –
Among our best bumper horses two years ago, he suffered an injury that has kept him away from the track. Hopefully he’s now ready to resume his career as he’s an exciting prospect for hurdling.
4g Myboycharlie – Caribena
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
515692-
RPR 125h OR –
Second to a smart rival when last seen over hurdles at Auteuil in April, he is a lovely, big grey who screams chasing, but we might wait a year for that.
6m Shirocco – Latitude
E R Hanbury
321F-22
RPR 150c OR 138c
Ran a great race at Market Rasen last week, but I wonder if she stays 3m. Nevertheless it was a fine effort and she’s a fantastic jumper.
6g King’s Theatre – China Sky
John P McManus
12/2-11
RPR 138h OR 139h
From the family of Best Mate, this good-looker has had issues, but has some decent form and his two hurdle wins in May leave him a novice for the season, so we can explore that route, although he will make a chaser.
3g High Chaparral – Snow Gretel
Mr And Mrs J D Cotton
9
RPR 73 OR –
He came up the road from Charlie Hills’s, but always looked a jumping prospect and is a scopey sort.
5g Anabaa Blue – Ella Parcs
John P McManus
6/200P4-
RPR 147h OR 145h
I thought he’d go to the top, but last term’s wet winter didn’t help after his good second in the Gerry Feilden. He was also an encouraging fourth in the Scottish Champion Hurdle and I still think his day will come.
The 32Red Casino Introductory Juvenile Hurdle Cl2
Kempton Park 27/12/16
©cranhamphoto.com
4g Shantou – Spanker
Trevor Hemmings
F2- (point form)
RPR 89p OR –
Showed promise in points and this athletic individual looks ready made for novice hurdles, although he will jump a fence in time.
4g Stowaway – Saffron Holly
John P McManus
1- (point form)
RPR 92p OR –
Rarely would you see a more attractive prospect than this grey, who was an impressive point winner. Has a lovely temperament and looks a high-class novice hurdler in the making, although he is a chaser for the future.
6g Saddler Maker – O Dame De Gene
Sullivan Bloodstock Limited
2111PP-
RPR 153h OR 149h
Improved last term and completed a hat-trick by winning a Grade 2 at Haydock, which gave us hope of a big run in the Albert Bartlett, but it just didn’t happen and he wasn’t the same horse we’d seen in the winter. He loves soft ground and looks a classy performer for fences.
Chives
4g Sulamani – Ceilidh Royal
Mrs Rita Brown
Unraced
A good-looking youngster, he’s a nice forward type we’ve bright hopes for.
6g Great Pretender – Taquine D’Estrees
Grech & Parkin
11352-1
RPR 145c OR –
A smart novice hurdler, he had the perfect introduction to fences recently at Uttoxeter, which is a lovely track to start young chasers. It was a good race and he’ll come on for it. He jumped well and will get 2m4f, but I’m not sure where he’ll go next.
5g Court Cave – Carrigeen Kalmia
Owners Group
4-
RPR 118b OR –
An eyecatcher when a promising fourth in a bumper at the Punchestown festival, he has the pedigree to match his exciting potential.
6g Westerner – Dochas Supreme
C N Barnes
32F11-2
RPR 129h OR 131h
He won twice over hurdles in the spring and was a respectable second when bidding for the hat-trick. An excellent jumper, he can go a long way over fences.
4g Shirocco – Milliegait
HP Racing Commander Miller
0
RPR 22b OR –
Related to several good horses we’ve had here, he is one we’ve always liked. His bumper run was disappointing, but it was too bad to be true and hopefully he can put it behind him over hurdles.
7g Kayf Tara – Alina Rheinberg
Grech & Parkin
11144/
RPR 147h OR 144h
A capable novice hurdler who won a Grade 2 at Doncaster and was fourth in the 2017 Albert Bartlett, he missed last season, but is back now and there’s hope he will make a high-class staying novice chaser.
4g Court Cave – Time For An Audit
Trevor Hemmings
Unraced
A striking individual, he didn’t come into training last term, but is well educated and his work has been to a high standard. He’s ready to go.
Talking tactics: Nicky Henderson and second-in-command Charlie Morlock plan the morning’s riding arrangements
Edward Whitaker / racingpost.com/photos
6m Smadoun – Tistairly
John P McManus
11/2115-
RPR 129h OR 133h
A lovely horse who won twice before an honourable fifth in the mares’ novice hurdle at Cheltenham on testing ground, which does not suit her. Therefore we might campaign her a bit earlier before the winter ground arrives. She can take high rank in the senior mares’ division.
7g Alflora – Angie Marinie
Kimmins Family And Friends
4-10F1P
RPR 140c OR 138c
Needs good ground and probably time between his races, but capable at his best and got off the mark over fences at Worcester in September. There’s a decent race in him.
5m Spanish Moon – Katarina De Clos
Sullivan Bloodstock Limited
121/
RPR 111b OR –
She won a Listed bumper impressively and we fancied her for the Cheltenham edition in 2017, but she got an injury, which ruled her out of last season as well. She looks a high-class mare in the making and I hope we’re luckier this time round.
5g Great Pretender – Palafixe
Sullivan Bloodstock Limited
57712-
RPR 128h OR 127h
Took time to find his feet, but this big, strong sort won nicely at Newbury before a fine second in a competitive handicap hurdle at Ayr. The further he goes, the better and he’ll be exciting over fences.
Diamond River
3g Imperial Monarch – River Clyde
Jockey Club Ownership (SW 2018)
Unraced
A strong, fine type from the sire’s first crop, he was the most extravagant mover we saw at all of the sales and looks a ready-made candidate for bumpers in the spring.
5g Gold Well – Merry Excuse
John P McManus
1- (point form)
RPR 93b OR –
Big and rangy with a lovely attitude, he was impressive in his only point and has had a good summer at JP’s Martinstown Stud, looking much more the finished article. He’s one we’re looking forward to enormously.
7g Oscar – Testaway
Middleham Park Racing LXII
225/112-
RPR 142c OR 141c
A handsome sort and sound jumper, he was impressive in his first two starts over fences and was only beaten by Musselburgh’s sharp track when we were trying to qualify him for the novice handicap chase at the festival. A niggling injury curtailed his season, but he’s never stopped improving and I can see him getting 3m.
The Stella Artois Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase (Class 3) Ascot 22/12/2017
©cranhamphoto.com
5g Getaway – Shang A Lang
T.F.P
1-
RPR 130b OR –
Impressive in his bumper in Ireland, he is a grand, robust gelding who is stronger and more mature after a good summer. He looked brilliant in his bumper and we can’t wait to get him started over hurdles.
5g Great Pretender – Lynnka
Sullivan Bloodstock Limited
14/62-1
RPR 121h OR 129h
He took time to master hurdles, but won nicely at Towcester when last seen and should improve stepping up in trip. Has the scope for fences, but may have more to offer over hurdles and could progress considerably.
5g Enrique – Rose D’Estruval
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
14718-1
RPR 131h OR 132h
A grand stamp, he won his only start for us in good fashion at Ffos Las in May and is possibly one for the three-mile novice hurdle route, although I can’t wait to get him back over fences at some stage as he won three chases in France.
5g Puit D’Or – Apple Mille
Million in Mind Partnership
6/23-
RPR 120h OR –
He’s a good-looking sort who showed useful form in France and looks just the type we can have loads of fun with this season, be it over hurdles or fences. 2m4f could be his trip.
5g Fuisse – Parenthese
Middleham Park Racing V
09607-
RPR 91h OR 97h
Big and a little backward, he is getting the hang of things and hopefully everyone’s patience will be rewarded. I’m optimistic he can win over hurdles as he gains confidence, but chasing is what he’s bred and built for.
7g Presenting – Blue Dante
Middleham Park Racing CIX
42461-7
RPR 121h OR 120h
Gradually progressive, he won at Carlisle in April and produced some other creditable efforts over hurdles, but it was a learning curve for chasing. A solid stayer, he likes good ground and could be a smart novice.
El Kaldoun
4g Special Kaldoun – Kermesse D’Estruval
Middleham Park Racing CIV
Unraced
Showed immense promise when he joined us, but didn’t make the racecourse. He is related to plenty of winners, so hopefully can uphold family honour and he’s one we like a lot.
4f No Risk At All – Kadjara
John P McManus
1-
RPR 121b OR –
An attractive filly, she was impressive in a decent APQS bumper in France last year and has had a good summer at Martinstown. She’s schooled well and is exciting for novice hurdles, be it against boys or girls.
Nicky Henderson with jockeys Daryl Jacob, Aidan Coleman, David Bass, Jerry McGrath and Nico de Boinville
Edward Whitaker / racingpost.com/photos
4g Falco – Ignited
Axom
2 (point form)
RPR 89p OR –
A fine individual, he was second in his point, but showed loads of promise and looks to have a big future firstly over hurdles then fences. He’s a lovely temperament and is one to look forward to.
Forain
3g Secret Singer – Oudette
Middleham Park Racing
Unraced
By the same sire as our former talented chaser Volnay De Thaix, this is a smart-looking youngster who hopefully won’t take long. He has bags of class and scope.
Fox’s Socks
3g Crillon – Queva De Sarti
Jonathan Palmer-Brown
Unraced
He looks the type who shouldn’t take too long and hopefully we’ll see him in decent bumpers when he’s ready.
6g Yeats – Candy Creek
Mr & Mrs R Kelvin-Hughes
31- (point form)
RPR – OR –
He won one of his two points in the West Country and has taken time, but is a mighty fine homebred in the mould of Santini. He is an exciting prospect for novice hurdles, but, like Santini, chasing will be his game.
6g King’s Theatre – Mrs Dempsey
G B Barlow
237F4-7
RPR 133h OR 127h
Really likeable, he has shown promise, but has needed time to fulfil his potential. He won a novice hurdle at Kempton last year, but wet ground never helped him through the winter. I’m confident he can become a decent novice chaser.
8g Beneficial – Sarahs Reprive
Robert Kirkland
7-6322P
RPR 140c 137c
Has lots of ability as five wins and beating Black Corton last year show, but he needs good ground and races in the summer before a winter break. Consistent, but not that well handicapped and it was all a bit rough and tumble for him at Wincanton on Saturday, where he lost a shoe and was slipping around.
5g Kapgarde – Largesse
Robert Kirkland
152-121
RPR 124h OR 126h
Won pleasingly at Newbury last week, when I think coming back to 2m helped. He’s still a baby who wants good ground.
Fructine
3f Saint Des Saints – Platine
John P McManus
1 (Flat form)
RPR – OR –
An exciting juvenile hurdling prospect with size, looks, substance and class, she won her only start on the Flat and is gorgeous.
Fugitives Drift
3g Yeats – Shebeganit
HP Racing Fugitives Drift
Unraced
An attractive model and typical of the sire, who is doing well, he ought to come to hand quite quickly and be another successful representative for Henry Ponsonby’s team.
5g Milan – Senora Snoopy
The Albatross Club
212121
RPR 128h OR 126g
Not the finished article, he’s done well through the summer and has won three, but I’m tempted to put him away as he loves good ground. He’ll be a better and stronger horse in the spring for a winter break.
3g Saint Des Saints – Tali Des Obeaux
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
12
RPR – OR –
A summer arrival, he won over hurdles in France in July, but was narrowly denied under a penalty two weeks later. He’s an interesting prospect.
6g Gewtaway – Raheen Lady
Grech & Parkin
14-
RPR 118h OR –
He won at Galway before a respectable fourth on his first start for us a competitive Ascot bumper. He’s schooled well, looks the part and I hope he’ll be exciting for novice hurdles.
5g Scorpion – Spring Baloo
Trevor Hemmings
33-
RPR 109b OR –
Weak last season when third in two big-field bumpers, he’s summered and schooled well and is ready to go hurdling, but is a future chaser.
8g Presenting – Ouro Preto
Mrs And Mrs J D Cotton
2F/11PP-
RPR 159c OR 152c
This handsome gelding developed into a classy chaser last season, winning decent events at Newbury at Ascot. We had considered him a National horse, but he disappointed in the Ultima at Cheltenham and the Scottish National and he’s pretty high in the handicap. He is, however, going to win a major handicap chase on decent ground soon.
The Lavazza Silver Cup Handicap Chase (Listed Race)
Ascot 23/12/2017
©cranhamphoto.com
5g Le Havre – Loup The Loup
Mrs Fitri Hay
4/15267/ (Flat form)
RPR 98F OR 98F
A newcomer to us from the Flat, where he won at Haydock, he’s had a leg problem and been off for two years, but looks ideal for novice hurdles.
5g Stowaway – Lisacul Queen
Robert Kirkland
611114
RPR 136h OR 135h
Progressive, he has won four times over hurdles already this season, growing up along the way. He will jump a fence, but maybe there’s more to come over hurdles first.
6g Galileo – Walklikeanegyptian
Mrs Fitri Hay
01/47/8- (Flat form)
RPR 89F OR 85F
By the right sire, he has shown ability on the Flat and I hope easier ground will be in his favour when he goes novice hurdling.
5g Tagula – Hazarama
Chelsea Thoroughbreds – Maltese Falcon
8-1
RPR 121h OR –
Another ex-Flat horse – he was fifth in the 2016 Derby – he was a comfortable winner over hurdles in May and remains a novice for the season. He’s likeable and undoubtedly talented.
5g Getaway – Dr Sandra
Julie And David R Martin And Dan Hall
1- (point form)
RPR 91p OR –
He was an easy point winner and is a big, stunning horse with loads of ability, but bumpers aren’t for him and he’ll go hurdling. A future chaser, he can have a lucrative season before that.
5g Presenting – Stravinsky Dance
Mhankin Cnoell Menholding Rwaley-Cohen
Unraced
He nearly ran in an Ayr bumper in the spring, but the ground was too quick. He is a gorgeous, big horse out of a mare we used to train and will go hurdling. His future, though, is over fences.
4g Network – R De Rien Sivola
Grech & Parkin
F1- (point form)
RPR – OR –
A big baby who was impressive in a point, he needed time in the spring, but has had an excellent summer and is one we’re looking forward to enormously.
5g Saddler Maker – Majaka
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
252111-
RPR 147c OR –
I don’t know a lot about this recent arrival who has some respectable form in France. We’ll soon do some work with him to find out where we stand, but he’s in everything and anything because we’re not sure of his trip.
4g Malinas – Friendly Craic
Middleham Park Racing CV
8-2
RPR 98b OR –
Showed promise in a Towcester bumper and benefited from his summer break. Goes hurdling now and looks a decent prospect judged on his schooling.
6g Azamour – Aladiyna
Pump & Plant Services Ltd
110P0-1
RPR 94c OR –
A smart hurdler who captured nice prizes at Kempton and Ascot last season, he jumped beautifully on his chasing debut at Stratford, gaining lots of confidence. We’ll tiptoe along quietly.
4f Jeremy – Listen Up
Lady Tennant
1- (point form)
RPR 82p OR –
She’s a magnificent-looking filly who won her only point and could go straight over hurdles, where she’d be another to look out for in mares’ novice races.
10g Winged Love – Credora Storm
A D Spence
25P4P-0
RPR 165c OR 145c
A good friend with some high-class form, including a Supreme second and Arkle third, he found life difficult last season, but was still second in the Peterborough when it was staged at Taunton and I think 3m helps now. He likes Kempton so any race I can find there will be on his agenda.
Lambourn 27.10.17 Pic: Edward Whitaker
Keen On
4g Kayf Tara – Romantic Dream
The Queen
Unraced
He is out of a mare we trained who has produced Close Touch and Take To Heart, so hopefully can follow in their footsteps. He has a great temperament and it shouldn’t be long before he makes his debut.
8g Beneficial – Inflation
A D Spence
236254-
RPR 150c OR 135c
He’s threatened to be high class and I still think he could have his day in the sun. Fourth in the Topham, he’s a solid jumper and I think we’ll aim him back over the National fences this season.
6g King’s Theatre – Ryde Back
Miss Rachel Tregaskes
3123-
RPR 131h OR 127h
A tall, leggy youngster, he progressed well over hurdles last term and now looks a chasing type I have big hopes for.
Known
4g Fame And Glory – Aasleagh Lady
The Rose and Thistle Partnership
Unraced
A big horse who needed time, he has done well over the summer and is ready to start his career. He’s well related and has a bright future.
7g Saint Des Saints – Kotkira
J D Cotton
215/1/6-
RPR 149c OR –
A grand sort who arrived recently from France, he has ability, but missed last season with leg trouble. It will take time to get him back to full fitness, but he has some useful form.
5m Westerner – Kildea Cailin
Grech & Parkin
412-1
RPR 120h OR 122h
A big, strong mare who was decent over hurdles and handles soft ground, she goes chasing and I’m confident she can go a long way.
La Hulpe
4f No Risk At All – Belle Yepa
Walters Plant Hire & James & Jean Potter
Unraced
A half-sister to Whisper, she didn’t know much in the spring, but is progressing nicely and hopefully won’t take too long.
4g Auhtorized – Leitzu
John Sillett
74-114
RPR 103h OR –
Won two bumpers in August very nicely and I’m sure he can leave behind his hurdling debut at Warwick and become progressive in that code.
8g Gold Away – Silver Peak
The Ten From Seven
1P/P-P1P
RPR 148c OR 145c
Has ability and it was great to see him win at Warwick in September. 3m on good ground suits.
Kempton 4.4.17 Pic: Edward Whitaker
4g Malinas – Brookville
Mrs Joe Donnelly
1- (point form)
RPR 93p OR –
A bumper would be no problem for this impressive and attractive point winner, but he could go over hurdles. I adore him and his future’s bright.
3g Most Improved – Mafaaza
Elite Racing Club
142-270 (Flat form)
RPR 94F OR 87F
Showed some fair Flat form and looks to have all the credentials for hurdling. He’s been to Henrietta Knight’s to learn the art of jumping and has been really good.
4g Sans Frontieres – Midnight Legend
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
84
RPR 75h OR –
An athletic type, he wasn’t beaten far in a Ffos Las bumper before making his debut over hurdles at Fakenham last month. I’m sure he can build on those efforts.
6g Westerner – Sno-Cat Lady
Grech & Parkin
P/2660-1
RPR 135c OR 136c
A talented novice hurdler, he was second in the Elite last year, but then bumped into an appalling winter. He won on his debut over fences at Wetherby last month and I’ll be disappointed if he isn’t a high-class novice chaser.
6m Winged Love – Rowdy Exit
A D Spence
U-
RPR – OR –
This good-looker, who has won a point, unseated on her debut over hurdles, so is a maiden and has done well over the summer. She’ll jump a fence in time.
5m Getaway – Maisie Presenting
Grech & Parkin
3-11
RPR – OR –
I’ve always thought she was good and she’s got gears – she wants 2m on nice ground. She won smoothly at Newbury last week and could go back there for a Listed contest at the Ladbrokes Trophy meeting.
5g Kayf Tara – Ceilidh Royal
Mrs Rita Brown
7-5
RPR 65h OR –
From a family we know well, he was backward, but showed promise and I’m confident a good summer will be the making of him. Stamina should be his forte.
5g Malinas – Kali
D H Low
93516-0
RPR 115h OR 123h
Won nicely at Huntington last season and has summered well and matured nicely. He could go chasing soon.
7g Milan – Pharney Fox
Galopp Syndicate Ltd
11-543
RPR 130h OR 127
Another I’d be looking forward to over fences as he’s a grand type who showed decent form as a hurdler.
6g Librettist – Forcaster
Owner to come
5000/00- (Flat form)
RPR 72F OR –
A fine, big stamp of a horse, who has never run over hurdles, but looks a jumper.
Marie’s Rock
3f Milan – By The Hour
Middle Park Racing
Unraced
A quality sort from a family full of winners, she looks precocious and I hope she’ll be ready for fillies’ bumpers just after Christmas.
Star quality
9g Scorpion – Knotted Midge
The Knot Again Partnership
11/1121-
RPR 174c OR 172c
Needs little introduction, but had a great second season over fences, which we can reflect on with pride. He started in an intermediate chase at Sandown, before a fantastic win in the King George. He was then involved in that epic Gold Cup with Native River, who probably enjoyed the testing ground more than we did. However, Might Bite bounced back tremendously, winning the Bowl at Aintree in outstanding fashion – his best performance of the season. He didn’t show any of his old traits or idiosyncrasies in those races, so we hope they are a thing of the past. With the Jockey Club’s £1 million Triple Crown chase bonus we’ll look at the Betfair Chase, then King George and another crack at the Gold Cup.
Lambourn 23.10.18 Pic: Edward Whitaker
6g Black Sam Bellamy – Ceilidh Royal
Mrs Rita Brown
54-311
RPR 128h OR 131h
Still a bit weak, he’s made enormous progress with two pleasing novice hurdle wins this summer and there is more to look forward to.
4g Jeremy – That’s Amazing
James And Jean Potter
10-2
RPR – OR –
One of our brighter bumper horses last season, he just looked like he needed it on his hurdle debut last week. He took a blow at the second-last because, I think, he finds his work too easy. He can go anywhere to win a maiden and is very capable.
8g Midnight Legend – Reverse Swing
Eventmasters Racing
121122
RPR 152c OR 147c
Has made up for lost time and has a good strike-rate, winning three times over fences already this season. He’ll continue through the autumn, but is one for better ground so might have a winter break.
5g Beneficial – Mary’s Little Vic
The Parishioners
172-
RPR 120b OR –
A taking winner of his debut at Newbury, he is born and bred to be a chaser and we’ll likely take that route in a year, but he can have a productive novice hurdle season for his enthusiastic owners first.
5g Beneficial – Dyrick Daybreak
Grech & Parkin
1112P-
RPR 148h OR 145c
Won three novice hurdles, including a Warwick Grade 2, last season, but didn’t fire in the Albert Bartlett. His future, which is bright, is over fences and he should reach a high level, while he can handle most ground.
4g Shantou – She’s On The Case
Mrs E Roberts
Unraced
One of the best movers of last year’s Landrover sale, he didn’t make the track in the spring, but gave us plenty of encouragement. An athletic, quality type, he should be out soon.
11g Desert Prince – Spartan Girl
John P McManus
42222/14-
RPR 171h OR 159h
An absolute legend who has had an illustrious career, which includes finishing second in three Champion Hurdles and a memorable win in last year’s International Hurdle at Cheltenham. That race could again be on his agenda and while his enthusiasm has never diminished, he’s become an easier ride and doesn’t pull like he used to. He’s summered really well.
The Unibet International Hurdle (Grade 2) (Class 1)
Cheltenham 16/12/17
©cranhamphoto.com
3f Anabaa Blue – She Hates Me
John P McManus
1-
RPR 118h OR –
A lovely looker who won her only start in France before joining us. She’s enthusiastic and probably just needs to learn to settle, but knows how to jump and could be anything as a juvenile hurdler. She will hopefully run at Cheltenham this week.
4g Kapgarde – Not Lost
Walters Plant Hire & James & Jean Potter
9-
RPR 96b OR –
Came to us as a beautifully bred colt and we hoped he’d make a winning debut at Ayr in a bumper we like to use, but he disappointed. However, he’s been gelded and a summer under his belt can also help him realise his considerable potential.
5g Stowaway – Subtle Gem
H P Racing No Hiding Place
468232
RPR 122h OR 119h
A consistent sort, he’s been knocking on the door for a while and ran another honest race at Uttoxeter this month. His turn can’t be far away.
4f Shirocco – N’Avoue Jamai
Robert Waley-Cohen
Unraced
A lovely filly from a wonderful family that is full of black type, she isn’t the biggest, but has grown over the summer and could run in a bumper before hurdling.
O’Connell Street
4g Fame And Glory – Victorine
Magniers, Mrs P Shanahan, Justin Carthy
Unraced
A big type, he was a bit backward, but comes from the great family of Morley Street and Granville Again, and showed plenty last term. He’s one were looking forward to enormously.
8g Mahler – Acoola
John P McManus
2/12125-
RPR 151h OR 147h
Not easy to train, but a lovely, big horse who had a good time as a novice hurdler, culminating in a gallant second in the Albert Bartlett. His problems have simply been growing pains and the exciting part comes now as he goes chasing. He can still reach the top.
6g Stowaway – Such A Step Up
A D Spence
1116-
RPR 152h OR 151h
One of our top novice hurdlers last season, when he won a brace of Grade 2s, although things didn’t end as we hoped in the 2m4f Grade 1 at Aintree. However, that’s not a true reflection of his talent and he’d had an interrupted prep, which forced him to miss Cheltenham. A gorgeous, scopey individual, he goes chasing and may have the speed for 2m although he could stay 3m as well, so there’s lots to look forward to.
Sandown 8.12.17 Pic: Edward Whitaker
8g Flemensfirth – Kestral Heights
Christopher Hanbury
3450P3-
RPR 156c OR 147c
A really good friend and nearly top-class chaser, he’s a consistent, but has big weights in all the handicaps, so finds winning difficult. He was fine third to Top Notch over 2m6f on the last day of the season and I think that’s his trip, while I hope a summer breathing operation can help him have his big day.
8g Indian Danehill – Company Credit
Mick Fitzgerald Racing Club
4/215/FP-
RPR 138h OR 137h
Was with Philip Hobbs, but Mick felt he might like a change of scenery, so we’ll see how he gets on, but he did show promise earlier in his career.
5g Al Namix – Perle De Baune
Mr & Mrs Sandy Orr
1712-
RPR 145h OR 139h
A useful novice hurdler and a horse I like a lot, he progressed nicely and I expect him to do well over fences this season. He has had a good summer and 2m-2m4f on good ground is ideal.
4g Kapgarde – Palmeriade
Mrs S Ricci
5
RPR 96b OR –
Disappointing in his bumper, but this gorgeous gelding is better than that and the summer has done him the world of good. I’ll be disappointed if he’s not a high-class novice hurdler.
4g Robin Des Champs – Milogan
R A Bartlett
Unraced
This good-looker is a recent arrival and is from a good family we know well that goes back to Marlborough and many other classy chasers. He looks classy too, and I’m sure he’ll know his job coming from Wilson Dennison’s.
3g Motivator – Elle Galante
Elite Racing Club
222113 (Flat form)
RPR 77F OR 73F
Won twice on the Flat over 1m3½f for Chris Wall, he appears to like cut. He’s spent a couple of weeks loose schooling with Henrietta Knight and she liked him a lot.
4g Beneficial – Holiday Time
Mr A Speelman and Mr M Speelman
2 (point form)
RPR 90p OR –
He finished second in what looked a decent maiden point last month and I like what I’ve seen.
Pipesmoker
3g Authorized – Pisa
Lady Dulverton
Unraced
By the same sire as Grand National winner Tiger Roll, he is a fine, scopey individual who was very straightforward to break in and he’s moved beautifully when cantering on the all-weather.
7g Nayef – Antebellum
The Duke Of Bedford & Dr Jerome Poupel
36/13/
RPR 125h OR 128h
He showed promise as a youngster, but a leg injury forced him on the sidelines last season. He’s always looked and raced like a chaser, so hopefully the wait is worthwhile and he can have a productive career over fences.
5g Yeats – Kilbarry Classic
Thomas Barr
120-
RPR 122b OR –
Won a bumper for Lucinda Russell last season and is a grand, big type – a gentleman of a horse who is ready to start and does everything right. He goes hurdling, but will be chasing next year.
5g Stowaway – Liss Rua
Mrs Patricia Pugh
1/29-12
RPR 125h OR 138h
I was pleased with his run at Ascot recently, when he just lost it at the second-last. He had, however, won well at Chepstow before that and I suspect he might want 2m4f now.
6g Kalanisi – Cool Quest
The Bartenders
65/2-
RPR 101b OR –
More backward than I anticipated, he progressed with each bumper run, but missed last term. His owners are patient people, so hopefully this attractive gelding can repay them over hurdles.
7g Oscar – Irish Wedding
Matt & Lauren Morgan
18/1U12-
RPR 153c 149c
A bumper winner who did well over hurdles, he ran the race of his life to be a head second in the novice handicap chase at the Cheltenham Festival and we can look at grown-up handicaps now. The plan is the BetVictor gold Cup at Cheltenham on Saturday.
Plumpton 7.1.18 Pic: Edward Whitaker
5g Getaway – Bella Venezia
John P McManus
2- (point form)
RPR 81p OR –
Second in his point, but demonstrating bags of potential, he is a fine, big individual who has had a good summer. He’s one to take note of.
7g Presenting – Gli Gli
Michael Buckley
41/U2P-P
RPR 139c OR 134c
Big, but a little backward, he won twice over hurdles and I think he can make a useful staying novice chaser.
7g Oscar – Clarin River
Grech & Parkin
1135/12-
RPR 149c OR 144c
A smart novice hurdler who was third in the 2017 Supreme, he impressed on his debut over fences at Uttoxeter this time last year before being beaten in a Grade 2 at Cheltenham and suffering a stress fracture, which kept him off. A professional type, he’s in the tricky position of being a twice-raced chaser who has lost his novice status, but intermediate chases will be useful. He might stay further than 2m and I think he can go a long way over fences.
Royal Reel
5g Shirocco – Close Harmony
Mrs Rita Brown
Unraced
Out of one of our favourite mares, who has done so well for Keith and Rita, this likeable type looks as if he ought to come to hand readily and hopefully it’s not long before we see him in action.
6g Yeats – Close Harmony
Mrs Rita Brown
733513
RPR 114h OR 114h
He’s another out of Close Harmony and was a ready winner of a handicap hurdle at Bangor last month. Like his relatives, he will be better the further he goes.
6g Milan – Tinagoodnight
Mr & Mrs R Kelvin-Hughes
1131-
RPR 153h OR 152h
Handsome, big and talented, he benefited from some further education at Polly Gundry’s and won nicely for us from Chef Des Obeaux at Newbury in December before winning a Grade 2 on Trials day at Cheltenham. He was third in the Albert Bartlett before an outstanding performance in the Sefton Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree. An imposing individual, he is set to go chasing and I’ll be disappointed if he’s not near the top.
5m Scorpion – That’s Moyne
The SMBs
5-1 (point form)
RPR 80p OR –
No relation to Might Bite, but I couldn’t resist her at the sales and she was an easy point winner. She doesn’t look like her near namesake, but is ready to go straight into battle.
4g Kalanisi – Katariya
Michael Buckley & Mark Blandford
Unraced
A big sort full of quality and from a good family, he nearly ran in the spring, but just ran out of time. He does everything right and I’m looking forward to his debut, which could be over hurdles.
Son Of Camas
3g Creachadoir – Camas
For sale
Unraced
He is a strong type who seems very forward. He should make a nice bumper horse after Christmas and will be a chaser in time.
Sorghatani
3g Kayf Tara – Follow The Dream
Richard’s Rascals
Unraced
A sharp-looker, he doesn’t know a lot at the moment, but seems quick on the uptake and hopefully we’ll see him after Christmas.
Dark horse
5g Martaline – Second Emotion
Mr And Mrs J D Cotton
35/PF11-
RPR 150h OR 152h
A horse I like a lot, he is talented, but lost his way over fences in France. He found his feet here, winning comfortably at Sandown in March and April. I’m hopeful he could be a Graded hurdler.
Sandown 9.3.18 Pic: Edward Whitaker
6g Oscar – Storminoora
Oscar Singh & Miss Priya Purewal
10-
RPR 102h OR –
Won a Ffos Las bumper first time up and made his debut over hurdles at Ascot last season. His schooling has been exceptional and he may switch to fences sooner rather than later, but he could be a force as a staying novice hurdler first.
4g Kapgarde – Anowe De Jelois
Highclere Thoroughbred Racing – Style
3/1142P-
RPR 138h OR 138h
A hurdle winner in France before joining us, he impressed at Newbury and disappointed at Huntingdon, but then ran a stormer with a big weight when second in the Fred Winter. He couldn’t back up at Aintree, but has summered well and has a fine future.
3g Vol De Nuit – Anowe De Jelois
John P McManus
1 (Flat form)
RPR 86F OR –
Style De Garde’s year-younger half-brother, he’s one our French advisers were mad about as he won his Flat maiden incredibly impressively. He could easily make a high-class juvenile hurdler.
4f Sholokhov – Maryota
Blunt, Breslin, Duffy, Slattery
1
RPR 107b OR –
She came to us late last season and won a bumper at Southwell really well in the summer. She’s all schooled and one to look forward to in novice hurdles against her own sex.
5m Sulamani – Spring Flight
The Queen
1/1139-
RPR 134h OR 134h
A good-looking homebred, she won her bumper and two hurdle races quite stylishly and there was no disgrace in her two defeats in classier company. She’s strengthened up considerably and can progress again.
Surf Walk
3g Born To Sea – Meon Mix
Mr A Speelman and Mr M Speelman
Unraced
One of the nicest we saw at the Landrover sale, he oozes quality and is an exceptional mover. You’d like to think he’d come to hand before long and might be one for the big Landrover bumper in the spring.
6g Robin Des Champs – Dancer Privado
Hodgkiss & Kelvin-Hughes
3361/1-
RPR 128h 134h
He was a progressive youngster who won twice over hurdles before a problem meant he took a sabbatical last season. He’s ready to go and will likely start over hurdles, but was always a good jumper so could go chasing.
5g Martaline – Vie De Reine
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
31121-4
RPR 164c OR 158c
I’m not sure if a horse has fooled me as much as him! He didn’t show much on the gallops, but bolted up at Huntingdon on his debut for us and kept getting better and better, winning the Scilly Isles and finishing second in the JLT before an excellent victory in the Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree. He was going well for a circle on his comeback at Sandown on Sunday but it was very noticeable that he was carrying his tail very awkwardly, so I can’t believe there isn’t something in that department. I’m not going to say no to the Ladbrokes Trophy but clearly we’ll have to go and investigate.
Photograph by Grossick Racing Photography 0771 046 1723
6g Stowaway – Serenade Leader
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
/221-232
RPR 127h OR 127h
An athletic type who doesn’t carry a lot of condition, he is a late maturer and won at Market Rasen in April. He’s taking his racing much better now and stayed on for second at Sandown on Sunday. He’s all schooled over fences and will go novice handicap chasing next time.
6g High Chaparral – Hadarama
Mrs Fitri Hay
0324/03- (Flat form)
RPR 97F OR 93F
A useful stayer on the Flat, he is a big, scopey individual and we’re looking forward to what could be an exciting novice hurdle campaign.
8g Smadoun – Kinevees
Mr & Mrs Sandy Orr
364241-
RPR 154c OR 150c
A marvellous servant, he must be one of the toughest horses in training and he made the frame at Cheltenham and Aintree before winning at Ayr – having run at the track just 24 hours earlier! We ask him some extraordinary questions, but he comes up with the answers and should have another good campaign. A strongly run 2m on good ground suits and the idea is to start in a valuable handicap chase at Ascot on Saturday week.
6g Yeats – Hora
Mrs Van Geest & Mrs Kelvin Hughes
1560P-4
RPR 157h OR 152h
Not a natural over hurdles, although he did win two classy staying handicaps, he delighted me on his debut over fences last week at Newbury. I thought he finished strongly and will have learned a lot. We’ll play it low for a moment and I think he’s in the Top Notch bracket; they lack a bit of scope and size, but if you get the confidence into them, which Thomas got, it can help a lot and hopefully he can enjoy some good days over fences.
7g Poliglote – Topira
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
3/31141-
RPR 171c OR 162c
The most special little horse who is dear to all of our hearts, he seems to have been around forever, but is only seven and had a wonderful campaign last term, winning the 1965 Chase, the Peterborough and ending with victory in the Oaksey Chase at Sandown. That – 2m6½f – was the longest trip he’s encountered and we’ll look at good 2m4f to 3m chases, with the 1965 Chase an early target.
Sandown 28.4.18 Pic: Edward Whitaker
Trull La La
4f Flemensfirth – Chomba Womba
The Tra La La Synidcate
Unraced
Out of a wonderful mare we had for Richard and Lizzie Kelvin-Hughes, she has done everything we’ve asked and I’m hopeful she won’t take long and can follow in the footsteps of her dam.
5g Turtle Bowl – Forces Sweetheart
Sullivan Bloodstock Limited
3915-
RPR 120h OR 122h
On the weak side initially, this big, scopey individual won over 2m at Huntingdon, but I’m sure he’ll require further. He’s filled out over the summer and is going to make a really nice novice chaser.
Twist
3g Invincible Spirit – Kahira
A D Spence
Unraced
Has a speedy pedigree, but never ran on the Flat. He’ll start in three-year-old bumpers and it’s just a question if he stays. If he does, he’ll be exciting.
Unnamed
3g Arcadio – Grangeclare Pearl
Biddestone Racing Club
Exceptionally handsome, he is big and scopey, but looks the sort who’d come to hand after Christmas and the valuable sales bumper at Doncaster could easily be on his agenda.
Unnamed
3g Camelot – Scandisk
John Turner
The most stunning individual and a terrific athlete, he also has an amazing pedigree being a half-brother to the great Hurricane Fly. He could hardly have better credentials and was fantastic to break in, so I hope he’s as good as the book says he should be.
Unnamed
4g Fair Mix – Glenda Lough
Mr T J Whitley
We had the mare and some of her progeny and I think this is the nicest and scopiest of them. We liked what we saw in the spring and he’s grown over the summer. Could start in a bumper, but the sooner he goes jumping the better.
Unnamed
3f Fame And Glory – Real Papoose
International Plywood
I couldn’t resist this drop-dead gorgeous filly at the sales and she has a nice pedigree, being from the family of Ballabriggs. Hopefully she’ll be ready to run in the new year.
Unnamed
3g Fame And Glory – Alannico
For sale
Full of quality and a real athlete, he was a joy to break in and will likely be running in bumpers just after Christmas.
Unnamed
3f Getaway – Bella Venezia
Crimbourne Stud
A sister to our nice Rathhill, she has the looks and pedigree to be high-class on the racecourse and as a broodmare. Should be ready for bumpers in the new year.
Unnamed
3g Getaway – Sparkling Gem
Highclere Thoroughbred Racing
This is a taking, scopey type who oozes class and is bred on the right lines; his half-brother won a Grade 1 in the States this summer. Our fella is a cracking individual I hope will be ready just after Christmas. He’s got a big future.
Unnamed
3g Jeremy – Peratus
International Plywood
An active and sharp individual, he shouldn’t take long and looks a real racehorse in the making. Related to plenty of winners.
Unnamed
3g Kayf Tara – Suave Shot
Trevor and Linda Marlow
He was lovely to break in and is a cracking youngster, whose owners deserve a change of luck. I hope he can bring it and he has a bright future.
Unnamed
4g Milan – Knotted Midge
John P McManus
Might Bite’s half-brother – and Beat That’s brother – he has a lot to live up to, but did everything we asked in the spring and is a fine, big gelding. He’s grown and we’ll give him what time he needs, but he looks very promising.
Unnamed
3g Scorpion – That’s Amazing
Walters Plant Hire & James & Jean Potter
A half-brother to the Potters’ Mister Fisher, he was one I had to have at the sales and was the best Scorpion we saw at them this summer. He was great to break in and will hopefully be ready for a bumper after Christmas.
9g Nidor – Jossca
Munir & Souede
63332-67
RPR 148c OR –
A recent arrival from France, he’s an experienced chaser and four-time winner at Auteuil who has been placed in some top staying chases. We hope he’ll be a contender for those races in Britain and hopefully the National too.
6m Getaway – Blue Gallery
Crimbourne Stud
1300-11
RPR 150h OR 143h
The Elite Hurdle was always the plan and I was praying all week that they wouldn’t get the rain as the faster the better for her. It did rain but thankfully the ground was still decent and she was great. We’ll try and keep her going but she’s very ground dependent. She’s in the Greatwood next weekend at Cheltenham and we could take a look at that if the ground is not soft. She’ll end up going for the Champion Hurdle in the spring if the ground allows but after that I wouldn’t mind switching her back to the Flat as she’s definitely not slow.
Kempton 21.10.18 Pic: Edward Whitaker
4g Yeats – Stravinsky Dance
Barrow Boys 2
Unraced
We nearly got a run into him in the spring, but the summer has done him the world of good and he’s a gorgeous individual I’m hopeful won’t be far off. Could start in a bumper before going hurdling.
9g Lion Noir – Dolce Vyta
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
P52/501-
RPR 151c OR 147c
He’s another old friend and it was great to see him strike at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day in first-time cheekpieces. For once, I wasn’t moaning about the handicapper’s reaction because it meant the National was in the reckoning. However, he got colic the day we entered for Aintree and needed emergency surgery. Thankfully, he’s recovered well and has returned looking the best I can remember, so perhaps it was a blessing in disguise. We’ll work back from Aintree.
5g Le Havre – In Love New
Mr & Mrs Sandy Orr
7P7F2-3
RPR 117h OR 119h
I think he has a future when he irons out a few baby habits and learns to race properly. An excellent jumper, he’ll be over fences at some stage and should’ve won at Kempton last time but he’s still a bit mentally immature and threw the race away on the run in.
Welsh Saint
4g Saint Des Saints – Minirose
Walters Plant Hire & James & Jean Potter
Unraced
A classy individual we liked a lot towards the last backend, he has done well over the summer and we’re looking forward to getting him started, possibly in a bumper before hurdling.
7g Beneficial – Ware It Vic
M Landau & J Lightfoot
1/4P-221
RPR 148c OR 145c
He finished second to Lil Rockerfeller and there’s a commendable new approach to novice chase handicaps that means placed horses can’t be raised, so we had to run in a handicap at Ascot the other day, which he won. He went up 15lb, but I think that was as much for being beaten by Lil Rockerfeller and he can now come back to normal novice chases.
4g Martaline – Sweet Dance
Simon Munir & Isaac Souede
411111-3
RPR 147h OR 156h
Unbeaten in five starts for the yard last season. He never stopped improving and won the Finale and Aintree’s Grade 1 juvenile hurdle, while I’m sure he’d have gone close in the Triumph but for a high temperature days before. He may have wanted the rain to get into the ground a bit more before his comeback at Wincanton on Saturday but it was a pleasing enough effort as he is sure to come on for the first run of the season. There’s a long way to go and I think he’s a good horse.
7g Bienamado – Greenfield Noora
5 Hertford Street Racing Club
12/2113-
RPR 139h OR 139h
Aptly named although his early issues are behind him, he won twice over hurdles at Newbury before a respectable third in the EBF Final at Sandown. He’s built like a chaser and loves soft ground, while he stays 2m4f, but probably doesn’t need it as he can race keenly and enthusiastically.
7m Tiger Hill – Discreet
Bloomsbury Stud
11-
RPR 136h OR 139h
Big and scopey, she won two novice hurdles nicely in the spring and looks an ideal candidate for mares’ novice chases, which are a great initiative of encouraging mares like her to stay in training.
8g King’s Theatre – Cincuenta
Walters Plant Hire Ltd
21/P144-
RPR 155h OR 154h
We tried fences with this smart novice hurdler, but he jumped violently right, so reverted to hurdles and he won the Lanzarote and was fourth in the Coral Cup. The handicapper has caught up with him, so we might go chasing again, almost certainly on a right-handed track. I don’t think it will be a problem when he gets the hang of it and this talented and likeable horse has a good future.
6m Getaway – Soft Skin
Grech & Parkin
3-4
RPR 106b OR –
She’s made the frame in two bumpers, but wants further than 2m and loves soft ground. I’m looking forward to her novice hurdle campaign and those mares’ races look ideal.
