Course Specialist Magazine Quarter 2 2019

APRIL 2019

Al Boum Photo delivers Gold for Willie Mullins TATTERSALLS ALL-SET FOR ANOTHER CRAVEN BREEZE-UP SALE

ROGER VARIAN TALKS TRAINING

JOHN DANCE TALKS RACING

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EDITOR’S WELCOME

Welcome to the Q2 2019 edition of Course Specialist Magazine.

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t the time of writing, the Cheltenham Festival finished just two hours ago and as always, there was so much to process.

We take a look at the Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup success of Al Boum Photo; a first for trainer Willie Mullins, who had six times previously provided the runner-up. There is a review of the whole Cheltenham Festival.

We also pay a visit to Newmarket Racecourse, where at the time of writing, preparations are underway for the three day Craven Meeting and another exciting year ahead. That year includes the Qipco Guineas Festival on May 4th and 5th, the starting point for the 2019 Qipco British Champions Series.

The Craven Meeting also sees the latest renewal of the hugely popular Tattersalls Craven Breeze-Up Sale. We catch up with Marketing Manager Jason Singh to look at what makes this event so successful.

Newbury has undertaken extensive development work over the past couple of years. We check-in to see what improvements have been made and look at the history of the big races on Newbury Spring Trial Day. Roger Varian’s successful career has seen his string grow into one of the largest in Newmarket. Roger exclusively talks to Course Specialist about his love of jumps racing and how the late Michael Jarvis helped convert him to the flat and shape his career.

Brian Barr gives us some perspective on the challenges of running a mixed yard.

Racing syndication has proven a successful means of racehorse ownership with perks. We discover how Chelsea Thoroughbreds membership provides not only access to stables and high class racehorses, but exclusive membership of a London club.

We also catch up exclusively with John Dance, who discusses racehorse ownership, nurturing a bloodstock empire - and of course Laurens.

Thank you as always for your support; I sincerely hope that you enjoy reading this bumper issue and please feel free to click on our interactive advertisements.

With best wishes,

EDITOR & PUBLISHER Andrew Pelis PHOTOGRAPHERS Steven Cargill Mark Cranham www.cranhamphoto.com A.J. Byles PRODUCTION Jon Mullender www.jonmullender.com ON THE COVER Al Boum Photo wins the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Image supplied by The Jockey Club

WE’RE SOCIAL  /course-specialist  @CourseSpecial Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this magazine, no legal responsibility will be accepted by the publishers for loss arising from use of information published. No part of the publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrievable system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Andrew Pelis Editor and Publisher

Copyright 2019 © Andrew Pelis

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FEATURE CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP

AL BOUM PHOTO WINS THE CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP

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Image supplied by HRI

© Patrick McCann Racing Post

dramatic and pulsating race went to Ireland as Al Boum Photo finally delivered the ultimate success for trainer Willie Mullins, in the Grade One Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup at Cheltenham.

A field of sixteen horses took part in the season’s blue riband race, over 3 ¼ miles.

As the race got underway to a large Cheltenham roar, Bellshill, Elegant Escape and Invitation Only led the charge to the first, where Kemboy was a faller.

Might Bite seized the lead from Invitation Only at the second, with Definitly Red prominent in third and then Native River, Elegant Escape, Yala Enki and Clan Des Obeaux.

As they raced down the back, Invitation Only edged Might Bite, but clouted the open ditch. In behind, Definitly Red ran third with Native River and Elegant Escape next, followed by Clan Des Obeaux, Thistlecrack and Double Shuffle, while Bellshill, was making mistakes and pulled up before they raced downhill.

At that downhill fence, Invitation Only fell and brought down Definitly Red.

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Might Bite meanwhile, led Native River into the home straight with Clan Des Obeaux and Elegant Escape next.

Last year’s winner Native River, moved to the front as they jumped the fence in front of the stands and set off, with his old rival Might Bite, on the final circuit, in a carbon copy of twelve months ago.

Native River led at the first down the back, while his stablemate Thistlecrack, had dropped to last, with Presenting Percy not far in front of him.

Image supplied by HRI

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© Mark Cranham focusonracing.com

CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP FEATURE Might Bite went back to the front from Native River and the two were three lengths clear of Clan Des Obeaux and Al Boom Photo, at the sixth last.

At the top of the hill, Native River led Might Bite and Al Boum Photo. Double Shuffle pulled up.

Native River put in a spectacular leap four out, but they bypassed the third last, where Invitation Only was still being attended, with Native River leading Might Bite, Clan Des Obeaux, Al Boum Photo, Bristol De Mai, Anibale Fly and Elegant Escape in a tremendously open race.

But unlike in 2018, the two leaders could not pull away and the pack joined them in a sprint, with Might Bite first to crack.

Al Boum Photo took up the running into the straight, with Bristol De Mai to his outside, giving chase.

But Al Boum Photo had momentum in abundance and took the last well, keeping up the gallop under Paul Townend.

Bristol De Mai simply could not close and Anibale Fly sprinted home to pass him for second.

But the bird had flown and Al Boum Photo won the Gold Cup by about three lengths from Aninale Fly, with Bristol De Mai third and Native River fourth. Clan Des Obeaux came home fifth.

The victory gave Willie Mullins a first Cheltenham Gold Cup victory after six times finishing second in the race.

“I thought I might never win a Gold Cup,” admitted Willie Mullins.

“I’m delighted, and especially for my owners. Marie and Joe have put a big commitment into our yard, so it’s great to get one like that. And I’m absolutely delighted for Paul [Townend] - to me he had a very unlucky day in Punchestown [he elected to go past the final fence when in the lead in a Grade One novices’ chase on Al Boum Photo in April 2018], and to do it on this horse would be special for Paul.

“I actually thought Bellshill would take a lot of beating but Ruby [Walsh] was never happy with him and pulled him up early. Al Boum Photo was probably third or fourth in my pecking order coming into the Gold Cup, and at the top of the hill first time round he was number one! It was extraordinary - the other three were gone by the time they came to the second-last first time round. That’s the luck of the game, but every time I looked at Paul, he and the horse seemed to be a rhythm, galloping away, looking so relaxed, and when he came to the top of the hill when he wanted a chop he gave it to him and I thought, this horse has got plenty left in the tank. I didn’t know how much but I said he’s got something there if he keeps jumping.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

“Going to the second-last Paul said, ‘time to go’, and all he had to do was jump the last, which he did. We didn’t have any last-fence worries, and it was fantastic. After the last, I just looked at the winning line and what was coming behind us and thought that he will win unless he stops or runs out.

“We’ve had placed horses, obviously, but it’s nice to get one on the board.

“The early ones were probably disappointing, but you get used to it. I had probably resigned myself to never winning a Gold Cup, so I didn’t really obsess about it and get too disappointed about it. It is like certain jockeys have never won the Grand National and others guys have never won a Champion Hurdle. Racing has been very good to me, I have a fantastic life in racing and I resigned myself to thinking that if I never won it then so be it. Sometimes trainers train certain types of horses in a certain way and maybe it wasn’t a Gold Cup way, even though we were so close, so I thought maybe it’s not to be. You get one chance at it every year, and this year when three of them were gone, I thought it was another year like that. So I probably had all my disappointment out of me early in the race. I’m thrilled to win it.

“When Dawn Run won the Gold Cup [in 1986, trained

by Mullins’ father Paddy] I didn’t get home for three or four days, and it might take a bit longer this time, but we’ll see.

Between Ascot, here and Melbourne, we’ve been hitting the board the whole time, so I am very proud for the whole yard and all my owners who give huge commitments to our yard.

It’s a victory for them as well.”

Joe and Marie Donnelly’s first winner at the Cheltenham Festival was the biggest of them all - the £625,000 Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup. Joe said: “It’s great to have a winner and it’s great to have Willie’s first Gold Cup also. I had a horse one time trained by Barney Curley, the great gambler - it was called Keep Hope Alive - and he told me he fancied the horse [Al Boum Photo] this morning. He has been a great friend of mine for 40 years and Barney, we are here.”

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FEATURE CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP Marie said: “I’m so happy for Willie because he has been such a fantastic trainer. It’s really Joe who keeps track of all the horses, but Willie deserves it - he is amazing.

“Melon [second in the Unibet Champion Hurdle on Tuesday] was so exciting the other day, but I’ve always loved Al Boum. It’s the way to go, right? Start at the top!”

Townend, was winning his 10th Festival race and his second of the week, following Duc Des Genievres on Tuesday, but he had never finished closer than fifth in seven previous rides in the Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup. He said: “I can’t believe, I just can’t believe it. I am so grateful to Willie and the owners for sticking by me. From the time I was an apprentice, Willie has supported me and I am just so grateful to give him his first Gold Cup. “I got into a beautiful rhythm everywhere. I wasn’t where I wanted to be over the first two fences, but I got a couple of good jumps and, from there, everything just flowed for me. I had a bit of room and he jumped from fence to fence for me.”

He added: “He’s a real warrior and galloped right to the top of the line. There were horses struggling around me and it was just happening for me. I knew if I kept him upright that I had would have a good chance. It’s an unbelievable feeling.”

Asked if there had been a concern about Al Boum Photo’s stamina, he replied: “You don’t know until you try over this distance, especially here, but we felt staying was his forte coming in and I think he really showed it today.

“I am just so grateful for the owners for sticking by me. I think I owed it to the horse. My body is tingling, I swear to God I am trembling, and I can’t believe it.”

Townend has long been looked upon by the racing public as Ruby Walsh’s understudy, but he is no longer in his shadow and currently leads the Irish jockey’s title race. Walsh was already changed into his civvies, having pulled up Bellshill, when he congratulated his friend on his way to weigh in.

Nigel Twiston-Davies, the trainer of third-placed Bristol De Mai, said: “The experts are the experts and I haven’t got a clue why they are experts. He was the joint top-rated horse in the race and he got beat, so maybe we shouldn’t have run him!

“When he ran in this race two years ago, we had trouble with him beforehand, but we have had no trouble this year.

“The only problem is the horses that we beat at Haydock, we beat again. So maybe the first two might come over to Haydock and we might be in trouble.”

Daryl Jacob, who rode Bristol De Mai, said: “It’s been a tough week and it hasn’t really happened [for me], but I’m very proud of the horse.”

Colin Tizzard is considering changing head gear on

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Image supplied by HRI

Native River following the horse’s run when fourth in the Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup. Jockey Richard Johnson had to work hard to get into a front-running position, and while he shook off his rival for that role, Might Bite - who pulled up - he was unable to hold off the challenge of the first three in the home straight.

Tizzard, who also ran Elegant Escape (sixth) and Thistlecrack (pulled up), said of Native River: “They went fast and he couldn’t lie up. No disrespect to the horse, but he improved when we put cheekpieces on a couple of years ago, and he might need something else now to get him to travel a little better. That’s not being detrimental to him, but he might need blinkers to stop him worrying about what’s going on behind.

“He stayed on up the run-in, but you cannot push a horse for three and a quarter miles - you want to be able to sit up occasionally and blinkers might do it.

“Elegant Escape was sixth and ran a massive trial for the Grand National, but I haven’t spoken to Tom Scu yet about Thistlecrack.”

Richard Johnson, who rode Native River, said: “He was very slow getting out of the gate and I have had to really niggle and cajole him to get him up there. To be fair, then he got into a nice rhythm but was always asking me to ask him to do things.

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CHELTENHAM GOLD CUP FEATURE

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

© Patrick McCann Racing Post

“He has stayed on again after the second last and got back up to get fourth on the run-in, so he has still run a very good race. It’s a Gold Cup and he has been beaten by three topclass horses. All the ones we thought we had to beat were behind him.

“He has done nothing wrong. It’s not quite as good as last year but another good run. I just think he wasn’t quite on his game and, in a Gold Cup you need to be 200 per cent. He has still run a good race, but unfortunately it is not to be.”

Harry Cobden, on Clan Des Obeaux (5th), said: “He got out stayed. That bit of rain this morning didn’t help.”

Charlie Deutsch, on Yala Enki (7th), said: “Great ride and I am really happy.”

Davy Russell, on Presenting Percy (8th), said: “We didn’t get on great. It didn’t really happen.”

Jack Kennedy, on Shattered Love (9th), said: “It was a grand run.”

Nico de Boinville, on Might Bite, said: “I was never as happy as I was last year. I could never get into a rhythm. He wasn’t jumping out of that ground quite as well as I would have liked. We have turned in and I have just cut out. I would say we could drop him back to two and a half [furlongs] on better ground and he might be some semblance of his old self.”

Ruby Walsh, who pulled-upon Bellshill, said: “He made some bad mistakes.”

WHERE THEY FINISHED Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (Grade 1) 3m 2f 70y £625,000 1 Al Boum Photo (FR) 7 11 10 Willie Mullins IRE Marie Donnelly Paul Townend 2 Anibale Fly (FR) ts 9 11 10 Tony Martin IRE J P McManus Barry Geraghty 3 Bristol de Mai (FR) 8 11 10 Nigel Twiston-Davies Simon Munir & Mr Isaac Souede Daryl Jacob 4 Native River (IRE) p 9 11 10 Colin Tizzard Brocade Racing Richard Johnson 5 Clan des Obeaux (FR) 7 11 10 Paul Nicholls Mr & Mrs Paul Barber, Ged Mason, Sir Alex Ferguson Harry Cobden 6 Elegant Escape (IRE) 7 11 10 Colin Tizzard J P Romans Tom O’Brien 7 Yala Enki (FR) 9 11 10 Venetia Williams Hills of Ledbury (Aga) Charlie Deutsch 8 Presenting Percy ts 8 11 10 Pat Kelly IRE Philip Reynolds Davy Russell 9 Shattered Love (IRE) ts 8 11 3 Gordon Elliott IRE Gigginstown House Stud Jack Kennedy BD Definitly Red (IRE) 10 11 10 Brian Ellison Phil & Julie Martin Danny Cook FELL Invitation Only (IRE) 8 11 10 Willie Mullins IRE Andrea & Graham Wylie Mr Patrick Mullins PU Bellshill (IRE) 9 11 10 Willie Mullins IRE Andrea & Graham Wylie Ruby Walsh PU Double Shuffle (IRE) h 9 11 10 Tom George Crossed Fingers Partnership Jonathan Burke PU Might Bite (IRE) 10 11 10 Nicky Henderson The Knot Again Partnership Nico de Boinville PU Thistlecrack 11 11 10 Colin Tizzard John and Heather Snook Tom Scudamore UR Kemboy (FR) 7 11 10 Willie Mullins IRE Supreme Racing/Brett Graham/Ken Sharp David Mullins Distances: 2½, 3¾, 3, 1¾, 15, 3½, 3½, 2¾

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW Day One

ESPOIR D’ALLEN CROWNED CHAMPION HURDLER Espoir D’Allen became the first five year old in eleven years to win the Unibet Champion Hurdle, as he routed his rivals by 15 lengths, the widest ever winning margin.

In a dramatic renewal, reigning dual Champion, Buveur D’Air, took a nasty fall at the third flight, bringing down Sharjah in the process. Both horses were OK and Buveur D’Air in fact, played his part in the finish.

Melon took the field along, with Apple’s Jade upsides and Laurina tucked in behind – and this trio built up a gap on the remainder.

However, Apple’s Jade was in trouble before the top of the hill and rapidly lost ground, as Melon and Laurina went on for Willie Mullins.

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But all the time, Espoir D’Allen was making ground with Mark Walsh, with Silver Streak also staying on.

As the leaders raced downhill to the second last flight, Espoir D’Allen joined the fray and he went into the lead before the home turn, with Melon weakening to the inside and Laurina suddenly running out of petrol.

Espoir D’Allen powered on and a good jump at the last confirmed his victory, with the run-in nothing more than a triumphant procession, with the riderless Buveur D’Air the only horse for him to race with.

Espoir D’Allen crossed the line a long way clear of Melon, second in consecutive years, while Silver Streak came through for third as Laurina trudged in a leg-weary fourth.

Trainer Gavin Cromwell, also a farrier, is based in County Meath.

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW He said of the victory: “I am lost for words. Espoir D’Allen is French-bred and they do mature earlier. He has been winning Grade Threes this season, so to go and do that is fantastic. He wouldn’t stand out in the string on his work, but he’s a gorgeous-looking horse.

“I have three horses for J P McManus and about 50 in total, but not many graded horses.

“Charlie Swan [who won three Unibet Champion Hurdles on Istabraq for McManus] found the horse in France and he came to me after winning a juvenile bumper over there. I had a call from J P’s team to say I had a horse coming to me in a couple of weeks, and it was this one. J P has been very good to me and sent me Jer’s Girl, who won a couple of Grade One races - it’s great to be able to repay him.

“I started training a few point-to-pointers and enjoyed it, and it went from there. We’ll still do a little bit of farriery because it’s the only way to make it pay. You need [to train] 145 horses otherwise. The game is full of talented trainers and better trainers than me - right the way through from the point-topoint ranks to the top of the game there are some brilliant trainers in Ireland.”

KLASSICAL DREAM STORMS TO SUPREME TRIUMPH

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Klassical Dream seized control at the top of the hill and was in total command thereafter, as he dominated in the Grade One Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham.

The 2019 Cheltenham Festival got underway at a very soggy Prestbury Park, with the rain continuing to fall, as the sixteen runners went to the start for this two-mile contest.

As the tapes went up, there was the traditional Cheltenham roar from the stands on a raw afternoon.

There was a false start as anticipation built.

That meant there was a standing start for the opening race and as they got underway, Brandon Castle got a flyer and took the first ahead of Fakir D’Oudairies, with The Big Bite third.

Brandon Castle and Bryony Frost moved eight lengths clear heading to the second flight, with the four year-old Fakir D’Oudairies second and then Klassical Dream.

By the third, Klassical Dream had all but joined Brandon Castle, with Grand Sancy and Fakir D’Oudairies next, followed by Al Dancer out wide.

Ruby Walsh pressed on at the top of the hill, took the second last well and turned for home with Felix Desjy challenging and Aramon staying on.

But the leader travelled best to the last and cleared it well, leading by five lengths. Up the hill, Thomas Darrby and Itchy Feet fought out the minor places, but Klassical Dream had long since flown and was never in any danger of being caught.

DUC DE GENIEVRES UNTOUCHABLE IN THE ARKLE Duc De Genievres turned the Grade One Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices’ Chase into a rout, in a dramatic renewal at Cheltenham.

A dozen went to post for this two-mile contest, with the field evenly split between British and Irish trained runners.

For the second race running, there was a false start.

Ornua and Clondaw Castle were the early leaders, while Glen Forsa blundered at the fourth and unseated his rider.

Ornua was joined by Knocknanuss, as they headed out into the country, but crashed out and in the process, Kalashnikov was badly hampered and unshipped Jack Quinlan.

That left Knocknanuss clear of Clondaw Castle and Duc De Genievres, while Lalor, never travelling, pulled up towards the rear.

Three out, Duc De Genievres and Paul Townend went on with Clondaw Castle for company, as Knocknanuss weakened.

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL “It looked like a schooling session for Paul, to be honest. He just held his position from the top of the hill, kept jumping and motored away up the hill.”

ROKSANA WINS AS BENIE DES DIEUX CRASHES OUT Image supplied by The Jockey Club

The front two turned for home five lengths clear, where Townend kicked for home, with Duc De Genievres shooting clear of his rivals.

Nothing had any answer and the grey sailed over the last and romped up the hill to a wide-margin win.

Us And Them stayed on for a remote second, with Articulum third and then Clondaw Castle, the best of the British, as Irish horses completed a clean sweep.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said: “Obviously this rain has just come in time. I was moaning at 10am that nothing had come - there was a lot of wind last night but no rain. It has just worked the oracle for this horse and made a huge difference to him.

“Looking at Paul, once the two horses fell going away from the stands, I thought, ‘why are you going out wide?’, but he must have seen something I didn’t see.

Next thing there was a bit of a shemozzle and he ended up in third place, when I thought he was going to be out the back. He just kept him together from thereonin and he just jumped and did everything right for him.

“Duc De Genievres showed a good bit as a novice hurdler but then went off form a bit. When he came back in this season, we thought maybe he was going to be a disappointing horse, but I think it was just the firm and good ground we had back home in Ireland. He was a different racehorse on this ground today.

“It was a big step up in class the last day [he won a beginner’s chase at Gowran Park in February] but I didn’t think that it would be good enough to win here - I thought he would have to improve again and I think he did.

“He seemed to be travelling so well and I said that he would have a great chance if he just kept jumping. He did that and seemed to really like that ground. It’s nice to get a winner for [owner] Jared Sullivan here.

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Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Roksana ran out the winner of the Grade One OLBG Mares’ Hurdle (Registered as the David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle), but it was a case of Groundhog Day. Four years ago, future Champion Hurdle winner, Annie Power, had this race at her mercy, when taking an horrific fall at the final flight, that left many people fearing the worst.

Remarkably, the reigning champion, Benie Des Dieux, even racing in the same Rich Ricci silks, found herself in the same position, before taking an almost identical type of fall, thankfully getting up afterwards.

Roksana was already running a brilliant race and appeared booked for second, before taking the last and wandering up the Cheltenham hill.

Harry Skelton kept her up to her work to win for his brother Dan, with the early race leader Stormy Ireland, who suffered ataxia after the race, staying on for second, ahead of Good Thyne Tara in third.

BEWARE THE BEAR HOLDS ON IN THE ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE Beware The Bear held on to win a gripping race for the Ultima Handicap Chase.

For the third time in as many races, there was a false start which led to boos from the crowds.

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Heading out, with two full circuits to race, Activial led from Vintage Clouds and Coo Star Sivola.

Over the water for the first time, Activial and Vintage Clouds were joined by O O Seven to the outside, with last year’s winner Coo Star Sivola just behind these and then came Lake View Lad to the outside and Shantou Village on the inside.

At the top of the hill, O O Seven was a couple of lengths clear, with Vintage Clouds rousted along and Up For Review travelling well and getting closer.

The leader raced down the hill with Vintage Clouds, Up For Review, Activial, Flying Angel and Beware The Bear.

The grey Vintage Clouds took over on the home turn, with Beware The Bear and O O Seven.

The grey led at the second last, but over the final fence, Beware The Bear went on and moved three lengths clear under Jerry McGrath. Further back, Give Me A Copper was a faller at the last.

On the long run-in, Beware The Bear began to wander around and Vintage Clouds started to rally most gamely.

For a moment it looked as though the grey might get back up, but Beware The Bear got up to land a 61st Cheltenham Festival winner for trainer Nicky Henderson.

Vintage Clouds ran a mighty race in second, third home came Lake View Lad, with Big River fourth and then Flying Angel.

Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase at Cheltenham.

Twenty lined-up for this 2 ½ mile contest and for the fourth time, there was a false start.

A Plus Tard and Ben Dundee were among the early leaders with Highway One O One, Walt and Movewiththetimes also prominent.

Highway One O One took the field along for much of the race with The Russian Doyen for company.

Three out and the front two were joined by A Plus Tard who pressed on under Rachael Blackmore, with Ben Dundee and The Russian Doyen.

The Henry De Bromhead trained leader took the last well and stormed away to give Blackmore her first Cheltenham Festival success by a wide margin.

Tower Bridge came home second, ahead of Ben Dundee and The Russian Doyen.

Blackmore said: “He has won incredibly well.

When Duc Des Genievres won the Arkle, that was franking my form [A Plus Tard beat Duc Des Genievres by three and a quarter lengths in a beginners’ chase at Naas in December], but I never thought I would be coming up that hill like that.

It’s unbelievable. The race went perfectly.

“Henry De Bromhead has put a lot of faith in me this week, considering I had never ridden a Festival winner; he’s put me up on a lot of them, including in Grade Ones, and I’m very grateful to him. It’s phenomenal. He’s been extremely good to me all year and this is a very nice horse for the future.

MAIDEN FESTIVAL WIN FOR BLACKMORE ON A PLUS TARD Ireland’s top professional lady rider Rachael Blackmore enjoyed a resounding success as A Plus Tard ran out an easy winner of the Listed Close course-specialist.co.uk

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL “Cheltenham has its own kind of atmosphere and pressure attached to it but Henry left it up to me and gave me very easy instructions. He was going to be able to blame me if it didn’t go right! To be honest, I was never winning with that margin in my mind. It’s fantastic to get a winner here - it’s what every jockey dreams about and I’m just so grateful to get to ride a horse like him and just steer him up the hill.”

LE BREUIL WINS A GRUELLING NATIONAL HUNT CHASE Eighteen started but only four finished in a gruelling edition of the National Hunt Chase, won by Le Breuil.

From the start it was Gun Digger who led from Whisperinthebreeze and Just Your Type.

At the first in the home straight, Skipthecuddles unseated at the fourth.

Beyond The Law and Whisperinthebreeze took the field into the country and were well clear, but at the ninth fence, the former fell, leaving the grey well clear of Gun Digger and Mulcahys Hill.

Whisperinthebreeze took a heavy fall and nearly brought down Jerrysback.

Just Your Type was left in front of Gun Digger and Mulcahys Hill, as they took the fifteenth fence and after clearing the next, headed out on their final circuit.

Ballyward and Johanos took heavy falls at the seventeenth.

Gun Digger went at the next fence and Chef Des Obeaux, hampered, was pulled up.

At the top of the hill, Just Your Type led from Atlanta Ablaze and Le Breuil and Jerrysback between these, with Discorama.

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Racing to the home turn, Atlanta Ablaze led with Le Breuil under pressure to the inside and Discorama coming to challenge.

Atlanta Ablaze fell two out and it was between Le Breuil and Discorama. They touched down together and fought out an enthralling battle up the hill. Further back, Just Your Type was a faller at the last.

But it was Le Breuil and Jamie Codd who won from Discorama, with a mile back to Jerrysback, who took third from Clondaw Cian.

Very sadly it was later confirmed that the Willie Mullins trained Ballyward was fatally injured.

Day Two

ALTIOR SHOWS THE HEART OF A CHAMPION Altior showed guts, stamina and abundant determination as he saw off his sternest test yet to retain his crown in the Grade One Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

Nine lined-up for the feature race on day two of the Cheltenham Festival, over two miles.

Saint Calvados was quickly into a clear lead from Altior, with a five length break to Sceau Royal and Politologue, who raced with Min. Saint Calvados continued to bowl along in front and took the fourth a couple of lengths clear of Altior, with the five length break maintained back to the rest of the field, as they headed out on their final circuit.

At the sixth fence, Saint Calvados stood off and put in a spectacular leap.

At the water jump, Altior made an error.

Saint Calvados raced to the top of the hill still a couple of lengths clear of Altior and took the last open ditch in front, with Politologue and Sceau Royal closing with Min, God’s Own and Castlegrace Paddy.

Racing downhill, Altior edged into the lead, but the pack were right on his heels, while Saint Calvados was still in contention to the inside.

They turned for home and Altior went on, pressed to his outside by Politologue, with Sceau Royal to his inside.

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW

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The three jumped the second last in a line and at the last, Sceau Royal just led.

But Altior was stubborn and racing between Sceau Royal and Politologue, the reigning champion would not be denied.

He looked vulnerable but knuckled down and answered Nico De Boinville’s every question.

On the long climb to the line, Altior began to courageously pull away and Politologue’s game bid just could not respond.

At the line, Altior had won his 18th straight race by 1 ½ lengths, with Sceau Royal third and a long gap back to Hell’s Kitchen and Min. Nicky Henderson’s stable star was winning at the Cheltenham Festival for the fourth successive year and his victory brought him level with Big Buck’s for consecutive victories.

God’s Own was pulled up sharply before the final fence but reportedly walked back soundly.

This sixth win in the race for Nicky Henderson equalled trainer Tom Dreaper’s record, and it put him back upsides Willie Mullins on 63 wins at the head of The Festivals all-time record.

Relief was his immediate emotion, and the trainer said: “It’s nice when it’s over. It’s like hitting your head against a brick wall. The only nice bit is when it stops.

‘When you see the crowd like that around the winner’s enclosure it’s like going back to the Sprinter Sacre days and it was great that he was here this morning and they gave him a great welcome. How lucky are we, to retire one and then find another.

You can’t believe it’s possible really and it makes it

all worthwhile. He’s some star.

“They’ve both done their bits for us, and I think for racing too. It’s lovely when people take to horses like that and they genuinely become public horses.

We are lucky to have these horses but they come with health warnings.”

Asked what was going through his mind when Sceau Royal joined Altior at the last, seemingly going the better, he replied: “I thought ‘hells bells we’ve got trouble here’, but it’s amazing how he picked up. He knew what he had to do. We’ll think about where we go now, but Nico said that more than anything Altior hated the ground. The ground was against him.

“Last year he wasn’t ready to come back at Aintree and so we waited for Sandown, and I think that’s probably what we’ll do, and then we’ll sit down over the summer and think about things. But we will seriously think about the King George.

“It’s nice to break records, but then you wake up in the night and realise it is insignificant compared to what Winx has done.”

Henderson paid tribute to the part played by the team behind Altior at home and to jockey Nico De Boinville.

He said: “The whole team is what it is all about and they have been brilliant. Their real work was getting Santini here whereas this fellow has been more straightforward this year.

“Nico started with us as an amateur and he was known as Sprinter’s work rider. That’s where he made his name, but now he’s made it right and properly at the top, as he did look in trouble.”

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL

TOPOFTHEGAME WINS AN ENTHRALLING RSA CHASE

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Topofthegame won a fascinating race for the Grade One RSA Insurance Novices’ Chase, as the cream rose to the top at Cheltenham.

A dozen horses took part in this three-mile contest.

The “novices’ Gold Cup” got underway with The World’s End leading at the first with Top Ville Ben to the inside and then Now McGinty and Santini, racing out wide.

The World’s End took the twelve down the back straight, but was passed by Drinks Interval, the mare who had proven recalcitrant at the start.

Top Ville Ben fell at the sixth, as Drinks Interval opened up a five length lead over The World’s End and Now McGinty, with Santini sitting fourth and then Topofthegame.

As the field ran into the home straight once again, On The Blind Side was not travelling and sat last of the remaining eleven.

Drinks Interval took the tenth with a three length lead and took the field out onto their final circuit, with Now McGinty second, then The World’s End, Santini, Topofthegame, Drovers Lane and Mister Malarky.

Drinks Interval and Richard Johnson continued to set the tempo, but On The Blind Side pulled up before the thirteenth fence.

Gradually, Delta Work and Drovers Lane began to close on Drinks Interval and at the top of the hill, four from home, the mare narrowly led Drovers Lane and Delta Work, with Santini fourth and then The World’s End and Topofthegame, with three lengths covering this sextet and then Mister Malarky.

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Racing downhill to the third last, Drinks Interval was joined by Delta Work who moved to the lead under Davy Russell, with Santini to his outside.

They turned wide into the home straight with Delta Work challenged by Santini and Topofthegame.

This trio had it at the last and Santini touched down in front, but was passed by Topofthegame in a thrilling race.

Topofthegame and Harry Cobden had the reserves to see off the persistent challenge of Santini and got up to win by about ¾ of a length, Delta Work could find no more but kept on to finish third, with a wide gap back to Mister Malarky and Mortal.

Trainer Paul Nicholls, registering his 44th winner at The Festival overall, his first of the week and his third success in the RSA Chase (Star De Mohaison 2006 & Denman 2007), said: “Topfothegame is a very smart horse. He has not been the easiest to train but, on his day, he is good. I haven’t said too much to Harry about how to ride him - I left it to him and just told him to take his time whatever he does - and he gave the horse an absolutely brilliant ride.

“I think if you replayed the Kempton race [second, Kauto Star Novices’ Chase], he would probably win. That’s taking nothing away from the winner but that’s racing - Harry is learning all the time and the horse is a still a big baby, who is learning now.

“He is nearly 18 hands, he is massive, and is not the easiest to train because he is a light horse. I didn’t want to go to the Reynoldstown, give him a hard race and leave it behind there.

“I just had to try and get the balance right - get him ready for here and not too light - and we have always believed that he would be a serious, serious horse.

“I knew the plan, I knew what Harry would do and have one go, and it just opened up nicely for him. He jumped really, really well just in behind, which was a brave route to go as you don’t want anything to go wrong.

“That jump at the last showed how much energy he had left in the tank. He still doesn’t do a whole heap in front but he did enough.”

“For Paul Barber and Chris Giles, today was the only day that we trained him for. The next target

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW will be the Gold Cup next year. Like Clan and those other young horses that we have got, it’s really exciting to have them but Rome wasn’t built in a day and we have to let them develop quietly.”

CITY ISLAND TAKES THE BALLYMORE

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City Island proved too strong as he saw off Champ, to win the Grade One Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Sixteen went to post for this race over two miles and five furlongs.

As the second day got underway at the Cheltenham Festival, it was Seddon and Valdieu who took the field along from Beakstown and Dunvegan, with Champ sat just behind these.

Seddon took the field into the home straight for the first time.

Heading out into the country, with a circuit to race, Seddon led Valdieu and Beakkstown, Dunvegan, Sams Profile and Champ.

As the field reached the top of the hill, Valdieu went on from Seddon, with Beakstown and Sams Profile right behind these and then Champ and City Island, while Brewin’ upastorm was closing.

Two from home and Champ and Brewin’ upastorm came to join Sams Profile and City Island.

Champ went on with City Island on the home turn and this pair battled to the last flight with Brewin’ upastorm and Bright Forecast next.

At the last, City Island landed in front of Champ and held his rival all the way up the hill, winning by about 1 ½ lengths.

Bright Forecast stayed on for third and then

came Brewin’ upastorm in fourth place.

City Island was getting Ireland off to the perfect start for trainer Martin Brassil, while Mark Walsh was adding further lustre to his Cheltenham Festival, having won the Champion Hurdle on Espoir D’Allen.

TIGER ROLL LANDS HIS FOURTH FESTIVAL SUCCESS Less than an hour after Altior became a four-time Cheltenham Festival winner, he was joined on a select role of honour by Tiger Roll, who turned the Glenfarclas Chase (Cross Country) into a procession at Cheltenham.

Fifteen took part in this 3 ¾ mile test.

At the off it was Fact Of The Matter who led Josie’s Orders and Kingswell Theatre.

Settling down, Kingswell Theatre took an early grip on the pace and moved five lengths clear of Fact of The Matter and Aubusson.

Kingswell Theatre continued to lead Fact Of The Matter and the grey Ballycasey, with Auvergnat in close order and then Tiger Roll.

Devil’s Bride pulled up at the seventeenth.

Meanwhile, Kingswell Theatre and Tom Scudamore continued to bowl along in front of Fact Of The Matter, with Tiger Roll and Ballycasey next, followed by Aubusson, Auvergnat and Josie’s Orders.

At the 22nd fence, Tea For Two was a faller.

Bless The Wings pulled-up a couple of fences later.

Up front though it was still Kingswell Theatre, with Tiger Roll moving second and then Amazing Comedy, Fact Of The Matter and Josie’s Orders, as Ultragold pulled up at the 26th. Meanwhile, Urgent De Gregaine made stealthy progress.

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL Three out, Tiger Roll joined Kingswell Theatre and went on, with Urgent De Gregaine and Ballycasey in touch.

Tiger Roll went clear from that point and skipped through the second last, turning for home well clear of Urgent De Gregaine.

Tiger Roll and Keith Donoghue took the last well and stormed home miles clear for a fourth Cheltenham Festival win.

Josie’s Orders got up for second, from Urgent De Gregaine, with Ballycasey fourth.

WILLIAM HENRY A LAST GASP WINNER OF THE CORAL CUP

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William Henry got up in the shadow of the winning post to deny Wicklow Brave in the Grade Three Coral Cup Handicap at Cheltenham.

A field of 25 lined-up for this two-mile, fivefurlong contest.

Monbeg Theatre was soon into a three length lead and took the field into the home straight on the first circuit, ahead of Dancing On My Own and Eragon De Chanay.

Heading out into the country, it was still Monbeg Theatre who led from Dancing On My Own, with Eragon De Chanay and Lil Rockerfeller next.

At the sixth flight, the pack began to close on the leader.

Three out, Brio Conti, Cracking Smart and Knight In Dubai took over.

Turning for home, Brio Conti led, but Wicklow Brave, last for much of the race, stormed to the front and landed in front at the last.

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On the run-in, Ballyandy and William Henry flanked Wicklow Brave and in a desperately tight finish, Nico De Boinville and William Henry, got up by inches to deny Wicklow Brave.

Ballyandy was maybe half a length back in third, with Brio Conti fourth.

For trainer Nicky Henderson and De Boinville, this was the perfect preliminary ahead of Altior’s Queen Mother Champion Chase bid.

BAND OF OUTLAWS A FIRST CHELTENHAM WINNER FOR JOSEPH O’BRIEN Band Of Outlaws got trainer Joseph O’Brien on the Cheltenham Festival board with victory in the Grade Three Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham.

A field of 21 four year-olds lined-up for this always fiercely competitive race, remembering one of National Hunt’s greatest figures.

From the get-go, it was Torpillo who led with Fox Pro and Zizaneur.

Torpillo took the field out on their final circuit with about a length lead from Fox Pro, with Zizaneur and Praeceps next.

Racing down the back, Torpillo kept up the gallop from Fox Pro, with Praeceps next and then the improving Cracker Factory.

That was the order at the top of the hill, with Zizaneur closing up again.

As they raced down the hill to the second last flight, Torpillo was passed by Praeceps, who raced wide.

Praeceps touched down in front and headed to the home turn, with Fanfan Du Seuil in contention and Band Of Outlaws closing but between horses.

Straightening up, Praeceps and Coko Beach led and Bande Of Outlaws was squeezed.

But over the last, J J Slevin switched to the inside and Band Of Outlaws quickened best up the hill to pass Coko Beach, as Praeceps weakened.

On the final climb, Band Of Outlaws moved into a two-length advantage over Coko Beach, with Ciel De Neige third and then King D’Argent.

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW

ENVOI ALLEN STILL UNBEATEN AFTER CHAMPION BUMPER SUCCESSIVE Envoi Allen was made to work hard but made it five from five in the Cheveley Park silks, to land the Grade One Weatherbys Champion Bumper at Cheltenham.

Fourteen went to post for this two-mile and half a furlong race, with Meticulous quickly away.

As they raced down the home straight for the first time, Some Detail led a bunched field, with Meticulous, Thyme Hill and Master Debonair close-up.

The field headed out into the country and Some Detail was joined by Master Debonair.

Turning down the hill it was still Some Detail and Master Debonair, but the challengers were queueing up in behind, led by Envoi Allen.

Abacadabras went on with Envoi Allen on the home turn and into the straight, the latter powered on into the lead, chased by Blue Sari.

Envoi Allen and Jamie Codd got first run and his rival had two lengths to find, but he knuckled down well to make a fight of it.

But Envoi Allen found enough up front to repel his challenger and win by maybe ¾ of a length.

Thyme Hill was the best of the British runners when a close third, with Abacadabras fourth.

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Day Three PAISLEY PARK AN EMOTIONAL STAYERS’ HURDLE WINNER’S

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Paisley Park showed plenty of heart and grit to win the Grade One Sun Racing Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Eighteen contested this three-mile contest, including the 2015 Champion Hurdle winner Faugheen and the leading UK hope Paisley Park.

As the starter set them on their way, Nautical Nitwit and Sam Spinner disputed the lead and quickly moved four lengths clear of Faugheen and Kilbricken Storm.

Nautical Nitwit pressed on and moved three lengths ahead of Sam Spinner, with a five length gap back to Faugheen, Wholestone and Kilbricken Storm, with another gap back to Top Notch, who led the remainder.

The field raced down the hill and Nautical Nitwit continued to lead by three lengths from Sam Spinner, with Faugheen and Wholestone moving closer and then came Kilbricken Storm, Top Notch and Black Op. Racing down the home straight, Nautical Nitwit continued to lead, but the field had closed up notably by the sixth flight.

The leader raced away from the stands with a two length advantage over Sam Spinner, with a length back to Faugheen, Wholestone and Kilbricken Storm, with Top Notch, Black Op, Supasundae and Petit Mouchoir leading the next group.

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL Racing to the third last, Nautical Nitwit lost a little ground and Sam Spinner went on from Faugheen and Wholestone.

Sam Spinner and Joe Colliver headed down the hill with Faugheen and Wholestone and then a host of horses who were biding their time, headed by Kilbricken Storm and Black Op. Two from home and Sam Spinner was joined by Faugheen and Wholestone and this trio turned for home with Supasundae making ground.

Sam Spinner proved stubborn and Faugheen struggled to get past, while Paisley Park began to charge on the stands side and went on at the last.

He dived at the last and gave fresh hope to Sam Spinner, but Aidan Coleman managed to galvanize Paisley Park on the flat and he found extra reserves to move away again from the gallant Sam Spinner and win the race by about two lengths.

Faugheen ultimately had nothing left to give but came home a game third, ahead of his stable mate Bapaume.

Emma Lavelle had never trained a Grade One winner until Paisley Park gave his first indications of stardom, with victory in the Long Walk Hurdle, at Ascot, in December. Now she has the Champion Stayer.

Owner Andrew Gemmell was all smiles in the winner’s enclosure after Paisley Park wonthe Sun Racing Stayers’ Hurdle.

Gemmell, who has been blind since birth, said: “This is fantastic and a real dream for me. I cannot believe it has happened.

“I still had hopes [during the race] because we know that is the way Paisley Park runs.

“I hope this is the first of many because I will keep coming back. We are so chuffed and we’re all in tears.”

Gemmell is a fan of the singer Prince and the gelding is named after a song written by the late American artist and the house where he lived in Minneapolis. Paisley Park also runs in the colours of Gemmell’s favourite football team, West Ham United.

The owner continued: “Paisley Park is a bit like Big Buck’s and Baracouda in that he does hit a flat spot, but he keeps finding. It was a scary moment when he made a mistake at the last too.

“This has been a brilliant journey and I have

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enjoyed it all the way. I’ve been to Cheltenham for years and years. It is just something else to be in the winner’s enclosure.

“Emma Lavelle and Barry Fenton [assistant trainer] have done brilliantly with this horse. I’m so chuffed for those two and Aidan. They are all great people to be around and this is a brilliant moment.”

Emma Lavelle waited 20 years for a first top level win courtesy of Paisley Park in the Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot in December, but she had less than three months to wait for a second with the same horse in the Sun Racing Stayers’ Hurdle and this time it was even better.

Lavelle enjoyed Festival handicap wins with Crack Away Jack in 2008 and Pause And Clause in 2010, but Paisley Park’s win here was of a different order all together, not least because her husband Barry Fenton rides the seven-year-old every morning and owner Andrew Gemmell has been a friend and valued supporter of the yard for years.

The trainer said: “It’s different gravy. It’s just a different level. People are giving three cheers for Paisley Park! It’s just phenomenal for everyone. All the lads are at home watching on TV. “It’s amazing. Watching the race we wondered if he was too far out of his ground, but Aidan (Coleman) knew what he had and said he still got there too soon. These real true stayers need to travel off the bridle, and then they need to find it when asked. That’s what he’s done. He’s had a proper race today, and I’m so proud of him.”

While most of Paisley Park’s supporters had their hearts in their mouths when he hit the last and lost momentum, Lavelle didn’t even see it.

She explained: “I watched it from the stands and had a tannoy right in front of me across the last hurdle, so thank God I never even saw the mistake.

But when I watched it on the replay it was maybe not absolutely ideal, but apart from that Aidan said he probably jumped the best he’s ever jumped. He just missed that one. What a special horse.”

Asked about the pressure she must have felt in the build-up, Paisley Park having become one of the meeting’s ‘people’s horses’ owing to his hugely progressive profile Gemmell’s widely reported sight impairment, she replied: “Weirdly I felt calm until the race was about to jump off and then I thought I

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW was going to burst into tears.

“You just kind of feel those fairytales don’t happen, and the most emotional I’ve been today is after Frodon won for Bryony. I thought ‘Oh my God, that’s amazing, but now she’s gone and stolen the whole fairytale’. But we got a chunk of it so it’s okay!”

She added: “I felt that if the will of the people was anything to go by this horse was going to win.

He had so many people behind him and they were probably just blowing him up the hill. It’s just brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.

“I cannot say quite how bad our hangovers are going to be in the morning.”

Aidan Coleman has had to wait 10 years for a second winner at the Cheltenham Festival - Kayf Aramis was his first, in the 2009 Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle. But Paisley Park’s thrilling victory in the Sun Racing Stayers’ Hurdle was worth the wait.

Coleman said: “It was super. You are never expecting to go round on the bridle on Paisley Park, but that’s what makes him such a good horse because he races behind the bridle, but it is the Stayers’ Hurdle and what he does is stay, exceptionally well.

Because he’s quite a relaxed horse to ride, that allows him, when he hits the hill, to really finish. Although coming down the hill you’d like to be going that little bit better, you do know that when you meet the rising ground you’re going to get there. He’s a fantastic horse to be associated with - I’m just living the dream at the moment. “[Hitting the final hurdle] wasn’t ideal but we had to do something wrong, didn’t we? I thought for a second, ‘oh, we’re beat’, but he just took a second and I gathered him again and we just took off. That shows how good he is, how classy he is and how tough he is. Andrew is a great fella - the whole thing is just very special and I’m loving it.

“I don’t know what I was thinking coming here today, but I could not see Paisley Park getting beat. I have not really had these winners at the festivals so I thought I better calm down a bit and enjoy the day.

“When I gave the saddle to Emma, she was super. She told me to enjoy myself and said, ‘you know the horse so I am not going to tell you what to do’.

“It was a strange thing when I crossed the line

because my first thought was when my best friend, Campbell Gillies, had his best day here a few years ago. For whatever reason, when I passed the line, he was the first person I thought of. He was a great friend of mine and I just want his family to know that, although he died a few years ago now, he is always there in our hearts.”

FRODON RULES CHELTENHAM

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Frodon showed all the attributes that have made him a fan favourite - and had the perfect partner in his biggest fan, Bryony Frost, as the pair repelled all challengers to win the Grade One Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham.

A field of twelve lined-up for this two-mile, four and a half furlongs contest.

As the race got underway, it was Frodon and Bryony Frost who went straight into the lead from Sub Lieutenant, with Monalee third and then Road To Respect and Terrefort.

Frodon continued to swing along with Sub Lieutenant for company and this pair raced three lengths clear of Monalee and Aso. Racing down the home straight, the pack closed, but Cheltenham specialist Frodon still led as they left the stands and headed out with a circuit to run.

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL At the first down the back, Charbel made a bad error and he and The Storyteller were under pressure.

Frodon continued to go well, with Sub Lieutenant under a drive to keep up, then came Monalee, Road To Respect Aso and last year’s winner Balko Des Flos.

Heading to the top of the hill, with four to jump, Frodon was joined by Aso, as Sub Lieutenant quickly dropped away. The leaders were tracked by Road To Respect, Monalee and Un De Sceaux, while Footpad moved closer.

Heading to the home turn, it was still Frodon, with Aso under pressure and Un De Sceaux closing to the inside.

Two out and Frodon and Aso landed in front of Road To Respect.

But the front pair continued to repel their rivals and landed together at the last.

In a titanic battle, Frodon found more for Bryony Frost to win another memorable Cheltenham contest, seeing off Aso with an abundance of guts.

At the line the winning margin was growing, with Aso a magnificent second. The cream of the Irish could just never get in a blow and it was Road To Respect who claimed third, ahead of Monalee.

Paul Nicholls had a decision to make after Frodon had won the Cotswold Chase in January. He appeared to be on course for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, but as the Cheltenham Festival approached, Paul Nicholls decided that in the ground conditions, the Ryanair was the better option. How right he was.

Wiping away tears, Frost said: “Frodon has got his day. He is Pegasus, he has wings, and he is the most incredible battler. He travelled and by God he jumps.

When he got overtaken two out, most horses would quit, but he grabbed me by the hands and said ‘don’t you dare give up, don’t you dare not send me into the last, I want this more than you, now come on!’

“He is the perfection of determination. Look at what he has done there and tell me he does not love racing. He is unbelievable. The dream he has just made come true for me is just incredible. He deserves every single pat, carrot and polo. This is his day.

“We had to be brave. Every time he’s won, he’s won by being the bravest. He grabs a hold and he tells you to give it to him. Down to the last we were

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beat. Two out he was headed and that horse (Aso) was going better than us for a minute, but he would not believe it.”

The winning trainer said: “That is one of the best days ever. Frodon is a brilliant horse.

“That was awesome - I lost my voice a bit! It hasn’t been easy to get him right and I knew he had to be 120 per cent.

“In the middle of last week, me and Clifford felt that we were a gallop short, so we took him to Wincanton on Friday and let him have a mile and a half with Pic D’Orhy, just to put the finishing touches to him.

“I said to Bryony that there was no point getting in behind - make all, keep saving a fraction and use that kick just once from the back of the last. That was brilliant.

“He has massively improved, like a lot of the young horses this year, and we worked out how to get him at his very best today. It’s a brilliant, brilliant team effort.”

DEFI DU SEUIL BEATS OLD RIVAL IN THE JLT Defi Du Seuil got the better of his old rival Lostintranslation, to win the Grade One JLT Novices’ Chase (Registered as the Golden Miller) at Cheltenham.

Ten went to post for this two-mile, 3 ½ furlong race.

Castafiore and Vinndication were quickly to the fore, with Lostintranslation right up with the pace.

At the first, Voix Du Reve made a dreadful blunder and Ruby Walsh did well to sit.

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW Lostintranslation took on the role of pacemaker and moved a couple of lengths ahead of Vinndication, who belted the first in the straight, with Mengli Khan and Defi Du Seuil.

With a circuit to race, Lostintranslation led Mengli Khan and Vinndication, who matched strides, then came Defi Du Seuil and Kildisart.

At the first in the back straight, Real Steel made a bad error and landed awkwardly at the back of the field, while Castafiore had lost her pitch.

At the final open ditch, Lostintranslation led, with Defi Du Seuil moving second and then came Mengli Khan to the outside.

They began the race downhill and still it was Lostintranslation from Mengli Khan and Defi Du Seuil, with Vinndication and Kildisart next. Voix Du Reve unseated three out.

Turning for home, Lostintranslation and Mengli Khan led, with the latter going the better.

Two out and Lostintranslation found more to land in front of Mengli Khan and Defi Du Seuil who rallied approaching the last.

The two old rivals had it between them on the flat and it was Defi Du Seuil who found more under Barry Geraghty, to win by a couple of lengths from Lostintranslation, with Mengli Khan third.

The Philip Hobbs trained Defi Du Seuil, was winning at the Cheltenham Festival for the second time, having previously landed the 2017 Triumph Hurdle.

Of Ginge and Didero Vallis all close. King’s Odyssey fell at the fence in front of the stands, as Siruh Du Lac set off into the country with Didero Vallis, Splash Of Ginge and Gardefort almost forming a wall of four.

At the back of the field, River Wylde pulled up before the water.

Meanwhile, Siruh Du Lac continued to travel well for Lizzie Kelly and led at the top of the top of the hill, with Didero Vallis and Splash Of Ginge.

Racing downhill, Riruh Du Lac and Didero Vallis led, with Eamon An Cnoic close-up.

But Siruh Du Lac turned for home in front of Eamon An Cnoic, with Janika and Didero Vallis challenging.

Siruh Du Lac landed in front at the second last, pressed by Eamon An Cnoic and Janika.

The leader took the last well and the final challenge came from Janika, but Siruh Du Lac was simply not for passing and reached the winning post with Kelly raising her arm aloft.

Siruh Du Lac had beaten Jankia on Cheltenham Trials Day in January – and repeated the feat here, while Spiritofthegames just passed Eamon An Cnoic for third place.

SIRUH DU LAC MAKES ALL

The Willie Mullins pair of Eglantine Du Seuil and Concertista were virtually inseparable, but the former got the verdict in the Grade Two National Hunt Breeders Supported by Tattersalls Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Registered as The Dawn Run) at Cheltenham.

22 mares lined-up for this two-mile and half a furlong race.

Emily Moon led the field down the home straight from Posh Trish and a bunched field.

With a circuit to run, Emily Moon was a length ahead of Elfile and Posh Trish, as the runners entered the back straight.

At the fifth, Emily Moon led from Elfile and Sinoria, with Posh Trish close-up.

Siruh Du Lac and Lizzie Kelly virtually led from pillar to post and held on well to win the Grade Three Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase at Cheltenham.

22 horses took part in this race over two miles, 4 ½ furlongs.

From flag fall it was Testify who led with Templehills and Siruh Du Lac. Settling down, Siruh Du Lac went on from Didero Vallis, with Testify and Splash Of Ginge also prominent.

Siruh Du Lac took the field down the home straight with Testify, Gardefort, Templehills, Splash

NOEL FEHILY WINS ON EGLANTINE DU SEUIL AND ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

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They reach the third last, at the top of the hill and began to run down to the second last, with Emily Moon quickly passed by the French runner Presidente Line, with Tintangle and Sinoria close.

Running to the last, Presidente Line was tackled

by Concertista and Black Tears.

But the complexion of the race changed quickly and Concertista, on her hurdling debut, went into the lead at the last from Black Tears.

However, Noel Fehily was galvanising a run from Eglantine Du Seuil and just as Concertina got the measure of Black Tears, her stable mate came to join her on the line in a desperately close finish.

After a photograph finish, Eglantine Du Seuil was called the winner from Concertina, in a Willie Mullins one-two. Tintangle finished third to complete a clean sweep for Irish-trained horses, with Black Tears fourth.

Mullins has won all four renewals of this race, named after his father’s great Champion Hurdle and Gold Cup winning mare.

Discussing the race, Fehily said: “I was fairly sure Eglantine Du Seuil’s head was down on the line. I would have been very disappointed if I hadn’t got up as I have come from a very long way back.

“Ruby Walsh said to me beforehand that she was very keen, so I dropped her right in. I was a long way back, but she was very tough and very hardy. She hasn’t had a lot of racing but she ran well last time out, which was good form at Listowel in September.

“We weren’t sure if that form at Listowel flattered her or whether she was that good and it turns out, she was that good!

He continued: “This is going to be my last Festival as I am getting a bit old for this job - that will be it now.

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“I am not getting any younger and it’s a young man’s game. I’ve been thinking about retiring for a couple of weeks. I wasn’t well for a while and I just thought t was time to let the young lads get on with it.

“I have spoken to my agent Chris Broad who has been brilliant and my wife and kids. I haven’t spoken to the trainers I ride for, so it will probably be in a couple of weeks, but we’ll play it by ear.

“This is going to be my last Festival and I was obviously hoping I would get a winner here to be able to say it. Cheltenham is a very hard place to get a winner and you can’t take it for granted.

“I won’t forget this victory. I’ve had great support over the years and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. I suppose I have to start working now!

“It has been a fantastic time. I love riding horses, but it’s time to let everyone else get on with it.”

A BARRY GERAGHTY MASTERPIECE IN THE PERTEMPS FINAL Barry Geraghty kept his cool and delivered Sire Du Berlais with consummate timing to land the Grade Three Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham.

A monster field of 24 took part in this race over just short of three miles.

One of the most competitive races of the Cheltenham Festival started with Coole Cody the early leader with Oh Land Abloom.

Coole Cody was joined by Abolitionist at the third, with Aaron Lad just behind the leaders.

Abolitionist went on as they raced down the hill to the fifth flight, with Oh Land Abloom second and Flemcara to the outside, while Coole Cody was there to the inside, as the field raced into the home straight.

That was the order, as the field set off on their final circuit, with Abolitionist still leading from Flemcara in second and then Oh Land Abloom, Coole Cody, Aaron Lad, Theclockisticking and Padleyourowncanoe.

Four out and Abolitionist was joined by Flemcara, as they races to the top of the hill.

Racing downhill to the second last, Abolitionist and Flemcara led, with Eminent Poet closing to the

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW outside, with A Toi Phil and Padleyourowncanoe.

Aaron Lad went on two out, with Flemcara to the inside, as they turned for home.

Approaching the last, A Toi Phil and Cuneo led, with Not Many Left and Sire Du Berlais.

At the last Not Many left touched down in front with Tobefair and Sire Du Berlais finishing with vigour.

On the climb to the line, To Be Fair looked like getting up, but between horses, Barry Geraghty produced a strong finish from Sire Du Berlais to get up by about ¼ of a length.

Not Many Left was right on the coat tails of the front two in third, with Cuneo and A Toi Phil next home, followed by Theclockisticking.

Any Second Now was completing a third day treble for owner JP McManus, who had seen Espoir D’Allen land the Champion Hurdle on the Tuesday.

The rest of Day Four PENTLAND HILLS A BITTERSWEET TRIUMPH HURDLE WINNER

ANY SECOND NOW TAKES THE KIM MUIR Any Second Now came with a perfectly-time run to win the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Riders’ Handicap Chase at Cheltenham.

The concluding race on the third day of the Cheltenham Festival, saw 23 horses line-up for this 3 ¼ mile contest.

Crievehill quickly went into a clear lead from The Young Master, with Captain Chaos, racing wide, in second and then Rogue Angel and The Young Master, with Arkwrisht next.

By the water jump on the final circuit, Crievehill had been joined by Captain Chaos and the latter led at the next.

Racing to the fifth last, Captain Chaos had the lead, while Touch Kick made a bad error.

Down the hill to the third last, Captain Chaos led but Arkwrisht fell.

On the home turn, Kilfulum Cross came to challenge and the grey led two out from Sky Pirate and Any Second Now. Racing to the last, Kilfilum Cross was still there, but Any Second Now joined and passed the leader on the run-in to score for Derek O’Connor and Ted Walsh by three lengths.

Kilfilum Cross was a gallant second, with The Young Master third and then Crievehill, who ran on again.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Pentland Hills emerged as a new star of the jumps game, with a bittersweet victory in the Grade One JCB Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham, which saw a dreadful accident befall Sir Erec.

Gold Cup Day got underway with the four-year old championship, with a field of 14 contesting this two-mile and half a furlong race.

There was drama at the start, as the leading fancy Sir Erec, had to be re-plated, causing a delay.

When the race finally got underway, it was Quel Destin who led to the first from Sir Erec and Couer Sublime, while Pentland Hills made an error.

On the long run to the second, Quel Destin led from Sir Erec and Couer Sublime, with Hannon and Adjali next, followed by Gardens Of Babylon and Tiger Tap Tap. Racing away from the stands, Quel Destin held a 1 ½ length lead over Sir Erec, with Hannon moving third.

At the fourth flight, Sir Erec suffered a terrible injury and was immediately out of the race.

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL Quel Destin continued to lead Couer Sublime, with Hannon to the inside and Pic D’Orhy closing with Tiger Tap Tap, with Adjali next and then Nelson River and Gardens Of Babylon.

They raced down the hill to the second last, with Quel Destin to the inside with Hannon, while Couer Sublime, Tiger Tap Tap and Pic D’Orhy raced wider.

On the home turn, the field bunched up, with Quel Destin still leading but passed on the stands rail by Couer Sublime, as Pentland Hills came into contention.

At the last, Pentland Hills just about led and was battled by Couer Sublime.

But the once-raced Pentland Hills and Nico De Boinville powered up the hill, having been towards the back early on – and went on to a clear cut victory over Couer Sublime, with Gardens Of Babylon third home.

Pentland Hills was giving trainer Nicky Henderson a seventh victory in the Triumph Hurdle, but a race marred by the tragic fate that befell Sir Erec and the inevitable but deeply sad news of his passing, was not long coming after the race.

CH’TIBELLO LANDS A THIRD COUNTY HURDLE IN FOUR YEARS FOR DAN SKELTON

Sternrubin, who went to the front with Storm Rising and last year’s winner Mohaayed.

The line of three became four, as Mister Fizz joined the leaders, but Storm Rising pressed on at the second flight and took the field into the back straight with a narrow advantage over Mister Fixx and Mohaayed.

As they left the back and raced up hill, Storm Rising still narrowly led from Mister Fizz and Mohaayed, with Sternrubin fourth and then Mitchouka, Eclair De Beaufeu and Lisp.

Storm Rising began the charge down the hill to the second last, with Mohaayed and Sternrubin for close company.

Mohaayed touched down in front two out and turned for home with Sternrubin to his inner and Eclair De Beaufeu.

It was the latter who stormed into the lead and moved three lengths on the long run to the last.

But his run began to peter out as the charging pack closed and at the last Ch’tibello and Harry Skelton had hit the front.

Eclair De Beaufeu blundered and unseated, as Ch’tibello powered up the hill, chased by and We Have A Dream and Countister.

But Ch’tibello was not for catching and delivered trainer Dan Skelton a second successive win in the County Hurdle and three wins in four years.

There was a tremendous tussle for second, with We Have A Dream just beating Countister; Whiskey Sour came home fourth, ahead of Lisp and Sternrubin.

A year ago, Harry Skelton had been congratulating his partner Bridget Andrews, after Mohaayed had won. The roles were reversed in 2019.

MINELLA INDO BREAK HIS MAIDEN TAG IN THE ALBERT BARTLETT Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Ch’tibello was an authoritative winner of the Grade Three Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle at Cheltenham.

One of the big handicaps of the week attracted a field of 24 over two miles and half a furlong.

From the start it was the perennial front-runner

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Minella Indo showed great fortitude as he lost his maiden hurdle at the biggest stage, in the Grade One Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham.

A field of 20 went to post for this three-mile contest.

Derrinross took the field along with Rockpoint to his inside and Minella Indo.

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Image supplied by The Jockey Club

At halfway, Rockpoint edged into the lead from Derrinross, with Minella Indo racing out wider and then came Nadaitak.

As they began to race downhill, Derrinross was back in front, as Rockpoint came under pressure, while Minella Indo and Nadaitak travelled well out wide.

Two out and Minella Indo led from Derrinross and began the turn for home with Derrinross under pressure and Salsaretta began to close.

But Minella Indo moved two lengths clear of Commander Of Fleet and took the last well in what became a two-horse race.

Minella Indo and Rachael Blackmore had enough in hand though and passed the post a couple of lengths to the good from Commander Of Fleet.

Allaho stayed on for third to complete an Irish clean sweep, with Oh and Dickie Diver fourth.

Always up with the pace, the Henry De Bromhead trained Minella Indo was giving Blackmore a second winner of the week as he broke his hurdles maiden in spectacular style.

Minella Indo races in the colours of Barry Maloney, and De Bromhead said: “It’s fantastic, and I’m delighted to get it for these guys.

HAZEL HILL IMPRESSES IN THE FOXHUNTERS’ Hazel Hill was delivered with perfect timing to land the St James’s Place Foxhunters’ Chase at Cheltenham.

A maximum field of 24 went to post for this 3 ¼ mile contest.

As the tapes went up, Road To Rome led from Just Cause, while Timewaitsfornoone unseated at the first.

Road To Rome took the field out into the country from Southfield Theatre, Asockastar and Just Cause.

The leader continued to travel well, in a good rhythm, with Asockastar in second and then came Shantou Flyer and Southfield Theatre, as they raced down the hill, with the field becoming strung out.

Road To Rome took the tenth and headed into the home straight with Southfield Theatre racing second and then came Asockastar, Shantou Flyer, Top Wood and Just Cause.

At the eleventh, Some Are Lucky unseated.

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REVIEW 2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL As they headed out on the final circuit, Road To Rome moved two lengths clear of Southfield Theatre and Top Wood.

A clutch of horses pulled up before the open ditch down the back.

Up front, Sam Waley-Cohen and Road To Rome reached the top of the hill with a three length lead over Top Wood and Shantou Flyer, with a gap to the rest, headed by Hazel Hill.

Racing down hill, Road To Rome took three out with Top Wood and Shantou Flyer much closer and Hazel Hill still closing.

Road To Rome turned for home with Top Wood looking a threat and a loose horse between them.

Two out and Road To Rome landed in front, with Hazel Hill now challenging.

Hazel Hill went on at the last and powered away from his rivals under Alex Edwards.

At the line, Hazel Hill won by a couple of lengths from Shantou Flyer, with Top Wood Third and then Road To Rome and Ucello Conti.

EARLY DOORS SCORES FOR JOSEPH O’BRIEN ON A CHALLENGING AFTERNOON Early Doors closed the door on the Cheltenham Festival in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockey’s Handicap Hurdle, the final race of Cheltenham 2019, on a day of mixed emotions for trainer Joseph O’Brien.

A field of 24 assembled for this race over two miles, 4 ½ furlongs.

As the race got underway, Mount Muse refused to race.

Up front, Acapella Bourgeois and Getareason were the leaders as the field charged over the first three flights.

Racing down the home straight, the field bunched, but still Acapella Bourgeois and Getareason led, with Mr Antolini close-up in third, as they headed out with a circuit to race.

Acapella Bourgeois continued to lead down the back straight and was still there, as they turned at the top of the hill, with Getareason, Mr Antolini, Defi Bleu, Dallas De Picton and Early Doors, as a wall of horses queued up behind the leader.

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Two out and Mr Antolini went on and Acapella Bourgeois pecked on landing.

On the turn for home it turned into a sprint, with plenty of scrimmaging.

Dallas Des Picton went on with Cartwright and Early Doors.

At the last, Dallas Des Picton led with Early Doors and it was the latter who went on beating Dallas Des Picton by a length, with Defi Bleu third and Champagne Court fourth, Early Doors and Jonjo O’Neill Jr were giving Joseph O’Brien a welcome winner, after the bitter loss of Sir Erec, earlier in the day.

NICO DE BOINVILLE AND WILLIE MULLINS CLAIM CHELTENHAM CROWNS Nico de Boinville, the Holland Cooper Top Jockey at the Cheltenham Festival 2019 with three winners, reacted: “I am over the moon.

“You do not come into a week like this thinking you have any sort of a chance [of being top jockey].

You know you have good rides, but you know how hard it is to convert them here.

“You have to remember that I am riding for a genius of a trainer (Nicky Henderson) because we have been pushed this year. We haven’t had an easy build-up with all the snow and flu jabs so it has been a difficult prep for all these horses.

“I was saying earlier that I think one of the standout training performances was Santini, because we have had so many problems with him. For him to come and run like he did, we are really looking forward to next season.

“It has been a great week.”

His three victories came through William Henry in the Coral Cup, Altior in the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase and Pentland Hills in the JCB Triumph Hurdle.

Willie Mullins was crowned The Irish Independent Leading Trainer at The Festival for a sixth time after an absence of two years, but it went to countback on placings before the result was confirmed.

This time it was Nicky Henderson, who last won

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2019 CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL REVIEW

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

the title in 2012, who gave him most to do, rather than Gordon Elliott, who took the title from Mullins in 2017 and won it again last year, and after both trainers ended on four winners it was Mullins’ five seconds against Henderson’s four that clinched it.

Mullins had not been optimistic at the start of the week, so he was delighted to be proved wrong.

He said: “It’s a big surprise. Looking at Nicky’s team at the start of the week I thought he was going to be hard to beat, so I’m delighted for the yard and delighted for all of our owners, who give us such support. It’s a testament to everyone who backs me that I’ve won it again.”

He added: “We got a great start, winning the first two races. We didn’t think we had a great team of novices but we ended with three novice winners, plus the Gold Cup, which was unbelievable after so many near misses. I thought I’d never win the Gold Cup, so that was a major surprise and a nice one.”

HOLLAND COOPER LEADING JOCKEY AWARD FINAL STANDINGS Jockey Nico de Boinville Barry Geraghty Paul Townend Mark Walsh

1st 2nd 3rd 3 1 1 2 3 2 2 2 2 1 1

THE IRISH INDEPENDENT LEADING TRAINER AWARD FINAL STANDINGS Trainer Willie Mullins IRE Nicky Henderson Gordon Elliott IRE Joseph O’Brien IRE Paul Nicholls

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1st 2nd 3rd 4 5 4 4 4 1 3 4 5 2 2 1 2 1 1

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FEATURE EQUINE FLU

A

A winter week of discontent

t 11pm, on Wednesday, February 6th, Course Specialist received an unexpected press release from the British Horseracing Authority, which dropped the bombshell that all British racing had been cancelled for the following day, on account of three confirmed cases of equine influenza.

As the Thursday progressed, it was revealed that the three horses came from Donald McCain’s stable in Cheshire – and as he had three runners at Ludlow and Ayr. The BHA made it clear that McCain’s horses had all been vaccinated – but that all horses from other stables that had horses racing at those meetings, would be on lockdown, with flu tests carried out.

On the Thursday, the BHA stated that there would be no racing in the UK until Wednesday, February 13th, at the earliest, as extensive testing got underway. This meant that Newbury’s ‘Super Saturday’ Meeting, featuring the Betfair Hurdle, was cancelled.

On Friday 8th, it emerged that three other horses from Donald McCain’s team had tested positive, including Raise A

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Spark, who had run on the Wednesday, at Ayr. The BHA revealed in a statement: “Of the samples that have been returned so far, three further positive results for equine influenza have been reported, all from the original affected yard.

“This means that in total six positive tests have been returned from the horses tested so far from this yard. Of the four horses from this yard who competed at fixtures this week, one has returned a positive sample so far – Raise A Spark, who competed at Ayr. “The test on this runner relates to a sample taken the following day, and the horse showed no clinical symptoms on raceday.

“It was in anticipation of this risk that the decision was taken by the BHA to restrict movement of horses on a precautionary basis at the yards of 120 other trainers who competed at these fixtures, and to suspend racing until Wednesday at the earliest.

“This action was taken to mitigate the impact of any of the runners which competed at these fixtures being found to be infected by the virus.”

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EQUINE FLU FEATURE Rebecca Menzies, who had runners during the week, revealed that one of her horses was showing flu-like symptoms. Thankfully, it was later confirmed that the horse under suspicion tested negative.

On Saturday, February 9th, the BHA made a further announcement: “The Animal Health Trust has informed the BHA that it has received approximately 2,100 nasal swabs and tested and reported on 720. So far, other than the six at the yard of Donald McCain already identified, there have been no further positive samples returned.”

The BHA’s Director of Equine Health and Welfare, David Sykes, said; “There are many more tests to analyse and the nature of the incubation period means that a negative test now does not mean that horse has never had this flu virus. So these yards continue to remain locked down and their horses kept under observation.

“Though hundreds of tests have been completed already, there are many hundreds more to be analysed over the weekend before we will have a fuller picture. The nature of disease control means that if a positive did emerge elsewhere, that could lead to more yards being locked down.”

Unfortunately, late on Sunday evening, February 10th, the BHA announced that more positive samples had emerged – at Newmarket trainer Simon Crisford’s stables.

Crisford made a statement that indicated the four horses tested positive had in no way been connected to his Newcastle runner Sanjajl, who had tested negative.

By this point, Crisford’s was one of 174 yards on lockdown.

At places like Newmarket and Lambourn, yards not on lockdown, had access to the gallops at their usual time, while those on lockdown, exercised later in the afternoon and separately.

On Monday, February 11th, the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board lifted a ban on British runners with immediate effect.

Later that evening, after an anxious delay, which kept all of British racing away from their beds, the BHA announced a lifting of their ban, from Wednesday, February 13th.

In what was described as a “risk managed return to racing”, which involved an interim initiative to only permit horses vaccinated within the previous six months to run.

Additionally, a number of high profile races which had been cancelled the previous weekend, were rescheduled, most notably, the Betfair Hurdle and Denman Chase, were moved from Newbury to Ascot and the Kingmaker Chase from Warwick to Sandown Park.

Gorgeous General

Image supplied by Leanne Humphries

And so, after a tortuous week without racing, the improving Gorgeous General got British racing back on track with victory in the Betway Apprentice Handicap at Southwell.

A relatively low key race became the centre of attention for the domestic racing world and the Laurence Mullaney trained four year old served up a thriller with Liamba.

Jockey William Carver had the white-faced Gorgeous General close to the pace and took it up inside the final furlong, with Liamba fighting back throughout the final 100 yards as the pair drew well clear of their rivals.

But Gorgeous General, a home-bred son of Captain Gerrard, held on to continue his fantastic 2019, making it three wins from his last four starts, but on this occasion, the start had far greater importance.

Gorgeous General

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FAKIR D’OUDAIRIES DOMINATES TRIUMPH HURDLE TRIAL Fakir D’oudairies announced himself on the Triumph Hurdle stage with an emphatic demolition job in the Grade Two JCB Triumph Trial Juvenile Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Nine four year olds went to post for this twomile, one furlong contest.

There was plenty of competition for the early lead, but eventually Adjali ande Darly Jacob went on narrowly from Fakir D’oudairies.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Racing into the back straight, the front two matched strides, just ahead of Protektorat, who raced wide, with Dogon next.

Fakir D’oudairies went on at the top of the hill, with Adjali back-pedalling, as Protektorat went second.

But Fakir D’oudairies went clear turning for home under JJ Slevin and took the last five lengths or more clear of Fine Brunello.

Racing up the hill, the race turned into a procession, as Fakir D’oudairies simply poured it on, winning by a wide-margin.

Fine Brunello got the better of a dog fight for second, to give trainer Joseph O’Brien a one-two in the race, with Adjali plugging on again for third, ahead of Our Power in fourth.

Eleven lined-up for this 2 ½ mile race.

Siruh Du Lac and Activial went straight to the front and set a good pace, with The Kings Writ to their outside.

There was little change at the top of the hill, with Siruh Du Lac still narrowly leading and Ballyhill moving much closer, while Activial racex close-up to the inside and The Kings Writ was still in touch.

Out wider, Janika also got into touch.

Three out and Sirih Du Lac led from Ballyhill who looked set to go on, while Janika tucked in behind the front two and Brelan D’As befan to make ground.

Racing to the last fence Siruh Du Lac still led, but on the flat, Janika came to deliver his challenge and headed his rival.

But Siruh Du Lac and Lizzie Kelly fought back tenaciously to get up narrowly from Janika, with a gap back to Ballyhill and a further one to The Kings Writ in fourth.

FRODON NOT TO BE DENIED IN COTSWOLD CHASE THRILLER Frodon’s stamina just about stood up to his longest test, as he showed all his usual verve to land the Grade Two BetBright Trial Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham.

This three-mile, 1 ½ furlong trial for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, attracted a field of six horses.

Frodon was straight into the lead from the recent Welsh Grand National winner Elegant Escape, with Alysson Monterg and Minella Rocco vying for third, ahead of Terrefort and Valtor.

SIRUH DU LAC ALL HEART AT CHELTENHAM Siruh Du Lac showed real promise and guts to land the Grade Three Spectra Cyber Security Solutions Trophy Handicap Chase at Cheltenham.

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UK RACING NEWS Frodon and Bryony Frost continued to set the tempo as the field raced downhill, with Elegant Escape travelling smoothly in second and there was little change in the order, as they raced into the home straight once again.

With a circuit to race, the field was covered by about five lengths, with Frodon still narrowly ahead of Elegant Escape and Alysson Monterg, with Minella Rocco out wide and then Valtor and Terrefort. \Five from home, Frodon led Alysson Monterg, with Elegant Escape beginning to struggle, as Terrefort moved closer. Further back, Valtor was struggling and Minella Rocco had tailed off.

Frodon turned for home with Alysson Monterg still challenging and Terrefort was staying on.

But Frodon edged away from his rivals and landed the second last three lengths ahead of Terefort, who closed at the last.

Frodon jumped the last extravagantly and headed up the hill with a clear advantage.

But the drama was not yet over, as the game little Frodon had to prove he stayed every yard of this trip.

Terrefort began to close – but so too did Elegant Escape, who made ground hand over fist.

Frodon and Frost just held on though by about a length, with Terrefort, back to something like his best, just a couple of lengths back in third.

Paul Nicholls may now give Frodon his opportunity in the Cheltenham Gold Cup; this was his fourth chase success at the track.

BIRCHDALE STILL UNBEATEN AFTER LAST FLIGHT DRAMA Birchdale coasted home an easy winner, after Brewin’Upastorm had fallen at the final flight in the Grade Two Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Five lined-up for this Festival Trial over 2 ½ miles.

Brewin’Upastorm led at the first from Buster Valentine and Birchdale.

With a circuit to race, four lengths maybe covered the quintet, with Brewin’Upastorm still leading from Buster Valentine and Birchdale, then

came Jarveys Plate and The Wolf.

The leader took three out and still travelled with exuberance, but the pack were all travelling well in behind.

Brewin’Upastorm and Buster Valentine took the second last together, with Birchdale swinging along on the home turn.

Brewin’Upastorm kicked on in the home straight and Birchdale had to work hard to keep tabs.

The leader looked to be travelling slightly the better of the two and was still a length up, when he crashed out at the last, leaving Birchdale to saunter home a long way clear of Buster Valentine in second and then Jarveys Plate.

PAISLEY PARK SLAMS HIS CLEEVE HURDLE RIVALS

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

Paisley Park confirmed himself beyond any doubt, to be a serious contender for the Stayers’ Hurdle, with an authoritative success in the Grade Two Galliardhomes.com Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham.

A crack dozen lined-up for this Stayers’ Hurdle trial over three miles.

Lil Rockerfeller, back over timber, jumped off into the lead from Sam Spinner and Unowhatimeanharry, who raced alongside Black Op. The leader continued to bowl along, setting a generous pace, with Sam Spinner second and this pair moving five lengths clear of Black Op, at the top of the hill on the first full circuit.

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NEWS UK RACING The leading two headed up the home straight with a four length lead over Black Op and then Unowhatimeanharry and Wholestone, followed by West Approach and Paisley Park.

Lil Rockerfeller moved a length clear of his rival as they headed out into the country for the final time.

Four out and it was still Lil Rockerfeller, but the field had closed up on the leading pair, with Black Op travelling well in third.

At the top of the hill, Lil Rockerfeller and Sam Spinner still had the lead and moved a couple of lengths clear again, but Sam Spinner soon came under a ride, while Black Op again closed with West Approach looking a danger.

At the second last Black Op took over and headed into the home turn with West Approach chasing and Paisley Park beginning his move.

At the final flight, West Approach and Paisley Park duelled briefly, but it was the latter who quickly saw off his rival and went clear at the last.

The Emma Lavelle trained gelding took the last well and stormed away from a class field with a brilliant performance under Aidan Coleman.

Paisley Park was a long way clear at the line, with West Approach claiming second ahead of Black Op and then in fourth came Sam Spinner.

The seven year-old Paisley Park, was consolidating his Grade One Long Walk Hurdle triumph at Ascot, just before Christmas. He looks a leading British contender for the Stayers’ crown.

DYNAMITE DOLLARS SHOWS HIS CLASS IN THE LIGHTNING NOVICES’ CHASE Despite not being foot perfect all the way, Dynamite Dollars’s class told in the end as he landed the Grade Two Napoleons Casino & Restaurant Owlerton Sheffield Lightning Novices’ Chase at Doncaster.

A cracking afternoon of Graded action at the South Yorkshire venue, got underway with this twomile contest, with a field of four runners.

After a farcical start where no-one wanted to go on, Dynamite Dollars took the initiative under Harry Cobden, with Ballywood in second.

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There was little change in the order as Dynamite Dollars took the last open ditch, six from home, leading Ballywood, with Ravenhill Road moving into third, as Shady Oaks began to lose touch.

Dynamite Dollars turned into the home straight still travelling well, but so too was Ballywood, who was still a length behind, as they headed to the second last fence.

Racing to the last, Dynamite Dollars found a bit more and he increased his advantage on the flat to win by about three lengths and give trainer Paul Nicholls a fifth win in the race.

Ballywood ran well in second, with the pair clear of Ravenhill Road.

NADAITAK STORMS TO VICTORY IN THE RIVER DON Nadaitak turned the Grade Two Albert Bartlett River Don Novices’ Hurdle into a one-horse race, at Doncaster.

Four contested this three-mile contest, with Commodore Barry going straight into the lead and setting a strong early pace ahead of Nadaitak.

The front duo were soon three lengths clear of Bailarico and Truckers Lodge.

Commodore Barry gained supremacy for the role of leader and set off on the final circuit with a length lead over Nadaitak.

Turning into the home straight, Commodore Barry continued to power along, with Nadaitak under pressure to stay in touch and his rivals in behind, looking in trouble.

But Nadaitak stuck gamely to his task and racing to the third last, there was little between the front duo.

Nadaitak and Nico De Boinville went on and quickly powered away from Commodore Barry who had no answer.

The leader was miles clear two out, but step onto the flight. However, his rivals were standing on the same spot and Nadaitak had no opposition as he took the last and sauntered home the winner by a very long way.

Truckers Lodge stayed on for second, ahead of Bailarico and Commodore Barry, who cut his own throat with the early pace.

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LADY BUTTONS JUST HOLDS ON Lady Buttons gave her band of supporters an anxious moment as she clung on to victory in the Grade Two OLBG.com Yorkshire Rose Mares’ Hurdle at Doncaster.

A field of six contested this two-mile, ½ a furlong race.

Indian Opera took the first flight ahead of Indefatigable and Chica Buena.

With three to jump, Indian Opera still led, but the pack were threatening to engulf her as they turned for home, with only Cold Fusion out of touch.

Indefatigable pressed on into the lead from Irish Roe, with Lady Buttons then closing.

Three out, the three were almost in a line, with Indefatigable in front but Lady Buttons travelling strongly.

The two mares touched down together at the last and Tommy Dowson asked Lady Buttons for her effort. The hugely popular mare responded well to draw two lengths clear, with the crowd roaring her home.

But in the final strides, Philip Kirby’s Lady Buttons seemed to doss and suddenly Gavin Sheehan had extra impetus on Indefatigable.

In a desperate finish the two seemed to flash past the post together and the Town Moor roars gave way to gasps of “has she hung on?”.

She had and Lady Buttons successfully conceded weight, albeit by a tight margin, with Irish Roe in third.

GO CONQUER POWERS TO SKY BET CHASE VICTORY Go Conquer travelled best throughout and stormed to victory, as it paid to be up with the pace throughout, in the Listed Sky Bet Handicap Chase at Eleven lined-up for this three-mile race, formerly known as the Great Yorkshire Chase.

At flag fall, it was Go Conquer who went into the lead from Willie Boy and Monbeg River. Calipto made a bad error at the first fence.

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

At the third fence, Monbeg River pulled through into the lead from Go Conquer, as the eleven raced down the home straight for the first time.

At the third of the fences in the straight, On Tour made a dreadful blunder and was left a remote last.

Up front, Monbeg River took the field out on their final circuit, with Go Conquer in second and Willie Boy out wide in third, then came Dingo Dollar and OO Seven, with Warriors Tale and Federici next.

With a mile to race, Monbeg River still held the call from Go Conquer and then came Dingo Dollar and Willie Boy, tracked by Art Mauresque, who moved closer, along with Calipto.

Five out and the front pair had moved three lengths clear and Monbeg River jumped the fourth last with Go Conquer for company and then Calipto, still closing.

Go Conquer cruised alongside Monbeg River and Tom Bellamy’s mount touched down in front and headed to the last with a two length advantage.

Go Conquer landed clear at the last and Bellamy kept his mount up to his work to go away and win by six lengths from Monbeg River, with Calipto third and then Willie Boy. The winner was most impressive here, as he landed a third triumph for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies.

BUVEUR D’AIR LANDS HIS THIRD CONTENDERS HURDLE Buveur D’Air was a relatively straight forward winner of the Listed 888Sport Contenders Hurdle at Sandown Park.

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NEWS UK RACING A field of five lined-up for this two-mile contest, including the dual Champion Hurdle winner Buveur D’Air, bidding to get back to winning ways after his shock defeat over Christmas.

That redoubtable battler Rayvin Black, went into the lead at flag fall, moving quickly into a five length lead from De Dollar Man and Buveur D’Air. With a circuit to run, two-time runner-up, Rayvin Black, led by a reduced advantage, from the dual winner Buveur D’Air. However, as the field turned down the side, Rayvin Black appeared to falter and lost momentum, handing the lead to Buveur D’Air, with four lengths back to Vision Des Flos, while Roksana and De Dollar Man were much further back.

Rayvin Black went back on racing down the back straight, with Vision Des Flos and Roksana closing up. Sadly, De Dollar Man collapsed when tailing off.

Rayvin Black headed into the home straight under a drive from Tom Garner, while Buveur D’Air travelled powerfully and came to join his rival at the second last, while Vision Des Flos and Roksana were in touch.

Buveur D’Air went on as Rayvin Black faded – and took the last clear, with Vision Des Flos still looking to have a chance.

But on the flat, Buveur D’Air was shaken up by Barry Geraghty and extended his lead easily for a comfortable third consecutive victory in the race.

Vision Des Flos ran a super race for second, with Roksana a long way back in third and Rayvin Black finishing in his own time.

DEFI DU SEUIL GAINS REVENGE IN THE SCILLY ISLES NOVICE’S CHASE Defi Du Seuil gained revenge over Lostintranslation when winning the Grade One 888Sport Scilly Isles Novice’s Chase at Sandown Park.

Five contested this 2 ½ mile chase, won in the past by horses of the ilk of: Killiney, Bradbury Star, Young Hustler, Best Mate, Oscar Whisky, Bristol De Mai and Top Notch.

Lostintranslation, who had beaten Defi Du Seuil in the Dipper Chase, took the field along and

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was still there racing down the back straight, where Dell Oro was eased down and pulled up.

Racing to the Pond Fence, Lostintranslation still led from old rival Defi Du Seuil, with Vinndication under pressure to stay in touch and Mulcahys Hill dropping away.

At the last fence Lostintranslation still led, but Defi Du Seuil and Barry Geraghty still had plenty in the tank and went on up the hill.

Lostintranslation and Richard Johnson fought back, with Vinndication unable to close.

But Defi Du Seuil had enough in hand and the Philip Hobbs runner landed his first Grade One success since winning back to back top flight juvenile hurdles in the spring of 2017.

GLEN FORSA POWERS TO KINGMAKER SUCCESS Glen Forsa took his two rivals apart with a polished round of jumping and a dominant display in the Grade Two Agetur UK Kingmaker Novices’ Chase at Sandown Park.

A field of four went to post for a race rescheduled from Warwick, following last weekend’s equine flu ban.

However, the French mare Dalila Du Seuil appeared to suffer a burst blood vessel on the way to post and had to be withdrawn.

This two-mile race got underway with Glen Forsa setting the running from Kalashnikov, as Dell Oro settled at the back.

With a circuit to race, that was the order, as Jonathan Burke and Glen Forsa led by a length from Kalashnikov and Dell Oro. With the back straight fences negotiated, Glen Forsa headed to the Pond Fence, three from home, with Kalashnikov still in touch but being niggled by Jack Quinlan.

Glen Forsa was again more fluent and turned for home with a widening lead.

At the final fence, he was ten lengths or more clear and jumped well, coasting up the Sandown Hill to make it three from three in emphatic fashion.

Kalashnikov was a lack lustre second, with Dell Oro coming home third.

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QUEENOHEARTS A GAME WINNER Queenohearts showed a fine attitude to land the Grade Two Weatherbys TBA Jane Seymour Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at Sandown Park.

Six contested this race over just short of 2 ½ miles.

As the flag fell amid glorious sunshine, it was Liberty Bella who led from Papagana at the first flight.

Liberty Bella and Jack Quinlan soon moved into a four length lead as they left the back for the first time, with Papagana and Duhallow Gesture giving chase.

With a circuit to race, Liberty Bella’s lead was a couple of lengths, with Duhallow Gesture and Papagana next, followed by Queenohearts and Rosy World, with Danse Idol patiently ridden.

The leader pressed into a five length lead racing down the back and she took the fourth last clear.

Three out, the lead was reduced, as Duhallow Gesture closed, while Papagana was niggled along.

Liberty Bella turned for home with a two length lead, with a bunched field in pursuit.

The leader gave way two from home as Queenoheart and Duhallow Gesture touched down together, while Papagana and Danse Idol were still in contention.

At the last flight, Queenohearts had seen off Duhallow Gesture, but Danse Idol loomed large and perhaps headed her rival on the flat.

But Queenohearts responded well for Ciaran Gethings and stretched on to win by a couple of lengths, with Papagana sticking on gamely in third.

The Stuart Edmunds trained six year-old was conceding five pounds to her rivals and continuing her progression.

MISTER MALARKY LANDS THE REYNOLDSTOWN Mister Malarky benefiting from a patient ride and went on to land the Grade Two Sodexo Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase at Ascot.

Five went to post for this prestigious three-mile race.

As the race got underway it was Top Ville Ben who led from Now McGinty.

Top Ville Ben and Sean Quinlan quickly built up a decent lead from Now McGinty and Yalltari, with Mister Malarky fourth and then Coup De Pinceau.

With five to jump, Top Ville Ben led, but Yalltari closed and Mister Malarky crept closer too, while Now McGinty was in touch but under pressure.

Yalltari pressed on as they turned for home, with Top Ville Ben under pressure and Mister Malarky coming between horses.

Mister Malarky touched down in front at the second last and went clear on the run to the last.

A good jump at the last helped him, as Yalltari dived at the fence and the final challenge came from the rallying Now McGinty.

But Mister Malarky and Robbie Power had enough in hand to win convincingly from Now McGinty, with Yalltari third.

Mister Malarky, now three from four over fences, was giving trainer Colin Tizzard a first victory in the Reynoldstown.

CLAN DES OBEAUX A CLASS APART IN THE DENMAN CHASE Clan Des Obeaux confirmed himself in rude health as he comfortably won the Grade Two Betfair Denman Chase at Ascot.

Four lined-up for this three-mile contest, rescheduled after Newbury’s meeting was cancelled.

Terrefort and Thomas Patrick took the field along through the early stages, with the former pressing on into a three-length advantage.

Continuing down the back, Terrefort remained a couple of lengths ahead of the King George winner Clan Des Obeaux, with this pair well clear of Ballyhill, with Thomas Patrick dropping back to last and struggling.

That was the order with a circuit to race, with Terrefort enjoying himself up front.

A slick jump at the seventh from home maintained Terrefort’s advantage, but Clan DesObeaux loomed large in second and this pair got away from Ballyhill.

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NEWS UK RACING Four out and Terrefort’s lead was down to two lengths, with Ballyhill getting closer.

As they turned for home, Terrefort was under pressure and Clan Des Obeaux looked to be moving smoothly, with Harry Cobden sitting motionless.

At the last, Clan Des Obeaux went on with an extravagant leap and the seven year old show away in impressive style to land a ninth success in this race for trainer Paul Nicholls.

Terrefort took second and ran well for a long way, with Ballyhill third.

AL DANCER IMPRESSES IN THE BETFAIR HURDLE Al Dancer ran out a most impressive winner in the Grade Three Betfair Handicap Hurdle at Ascot.

Fourteen took part in this rescheduled contest, which had been due to take place at Newbury a week earlier.

At the off it was Magic Dancer who led from Blu Cavalier and the grey Nelson’s Touch.

With a circuit to race, Magic Dancer held a slender lead from Blu Cavalier, with Al Dancer to the inside and Nelson’s Touch prominent, while Nordic Combined raced between horses.

With four to jump, the entire field was covered by six lengths, with Magic Dancer and Blu Cavalier continuing to set the tempo.

The front two turned for home with a wall of horses in contention.

Magic Dancer led to the second last, with Al Dancer coming to challenge and going on.

Racing to the final flight, Al Dancer led Magic Dancer and Ar Mest.

On the run-in, Magic Dancer gamely fought back, but could not bridge the gap to Al Dancer who delivered a third victory in the race for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies.

Magic Dancer was second, with Blu Cavalier third and then Getaway Trump.

Al Dancer was making it four from four this season.

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CYRNAME ROUTS HIS ASCOT CHASE RIVALS Cyrname demolished his opponents with a brilliant front-running display in the Grade One Betfair Ascot Chase at Ascot.

Six lined-up in a fascinating renewal of this twomile, 5-furlong contest.

At the start it was Cyrname who went on from Charbel and Aso. At the fourth, Cyrname held a three length lead over Charbel and Aso, with Politologue next and then Waiting Patiently and Fox Norton.

Cyrname was still to the fore turning for home and took two out with Waiting Patiently in pursuit.

The leader, under Harry Cobden, kicked away racing to the last and a fine jump saw him simply extend his lead over toiling rivals.

At the line, Cyrname was a wide-margin winner on a red letter day for Paul Nicholls.

Waiting Patiently came second, with Fox Norton third and Politologue next.

SHADES OF MIDNIGHT WINS ANOTHER RENDLESHAM HURDLE FOR SANDY THOMSON Shades Of Midnight ground his rivals with a gutsy display to win the Grade Two William Hill Rendlesham Hurdle at Haydock Park.

Seven went to post for this three-mile race.

Shades Of Midnight and the grey Donna’s Diamond disputed the early lead from Kilcooley and Clyne, with Yanworth settled in fifth.

Shades Of Midnight kicked off the home turn but Kilcooley rallied again and came to challenge, as they took two out.

Shades Of Midnight landed in front and began to pull away, negotiating the last as his rival dived.

Shades Of Midnight and Henry Brooke went further clear on the flat to record a decisive victory.

Petticoat Tails stayed on for second, ahead of Clyne and Kilcooley, who tired after a three-year absence. Yanworth was most disappointing and pulled up.

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UK RACING NEWS This was a Scottish triumph for trainer Sandy Thomson, previously successful in this race with Seeyouatmidnight.

ROBINSFIRTH WINS A THRILLING GRAND NATIONAL TRIAL Robinsfirth and Sean Bowen got up late to land the Grade Three William Hill Grand National Trial Handicap Chase at Haydock Park.

A competitive field of sixteen lined-up for this 3 ½ mile event.

Bishops Road led the charge to the first fence, with Ah Littleluck unseating at the second fence.

Bishops Road continued to set the tempo from The Two Amigos and as he headed out on the first of two full circuits, moved into a five length lead.

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

Racing down the back, Bishops Road was ten lengths clear of The Two Amigos and Red Infantry, with Chef D’Oeuvre next.

Heading into the home straight once again, it was Bishops Road clear of The Two Amigos.

With a circuit to race, Bishops Road was four lengths clear of The Two Amigos, with Red Infantry next and then a gap to Royal Vacation, Ramses De Teillee and Chef D’Oeuvre. Ballyoptic was pulled up and The Two Amigos fell at the first down the back, hampering Carole’s Destrier, who was immediately pulled up. Wakanda soon followed suit.

Bishops Road took the fifth last with a reduced lead, with Ramisees Du Teuill travelling well and Royal Vacation next. Pobbles Bay parted company with his rider spectacularly.

Turning for home, Bishops Road was soon under pressure as the grey Ramses De Teillee went on and the long-time leader soon faded.

Ballyarthur meanwhile fell four out.

Ramses De Teillee took the second last clear of Chef D’Oeuvre and Robinsfirth, but his two pursuers closed at the last.

In a dramatic climax, on the run-in, Robinsfirth caught and passed Ramses De Teillee to edge to victory, with Chef D’Oeuvre a close third.

Royal Vacation was fourth, ahead of Yala Enki and Bishops Road, as only six finished.

LISNAGAR OSCAR BOUNDS CLEAR AT HAYDOCK Lisnagar Oscar posted an emphatic victory in the Grade Two Albert Bartlett Prestige Novices’ Hurdle at Haydock Park.

Ten lined-up for this three mile contest.

At flag fall, Rockpoint led but there was no real pace and Ask Ben found himself in front, with two circuits to race.

Ask Ben continued to set the tempo, with Star Of Lanka joining him for company and going on as they raced down the back straight for the final time.

Turning for home, Star Of Lanka just about led Ask Ben, with Lisnagar Oscar poised in behind and Kateson making ground to the inside.

Three out and Kateson made an error when looking dangerous and Ask Ben and Star Of Lanka still led, but were tackled by Lisnagar Oscar two out and he went on at the last.

Lisnagar Oscar and Sean Bowen went clear on the flat to win well from Ask Ben and Stoney Mountain, as Star Of Lanka faded late on.

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NEWS UK RACING

GRAND SANCY ALL HEART IN THE KINGWELL HURDLE Grand Sancy showed plenty of heart to win the Grade Two Betway Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton.

Five contested this two-mile race which has thrown up Champion Hurdle winners in the past.

Unison went into the early lead from the novice Grand Sancy, with Vision Des Flos settled in third.

That was the order with a circuit to race.

Unison continued to lead from Grand Sancy, with Sceau Royal moving closer as Vision Des Flos bided his time to the inside.

Turning for home, Unison came under pressure, as Grand Sancy vied for the lead, with Sceau Royal going well in behind.

Two out and Grand Sancy led, with Vision Des Flos challenging, as Sceau Royal hit a flat spot.

Harry Skelton had a willing partner in Grand Sancy and the novice found more approaching the last.

A good jump did not seal victory however, as he was challenged on both flanks by Vision Des Flos and Sceau Royal.

But the Paul Nicholls trained five year old Grand Sancy, fought on tenaciously to hold off Sceau Royal by a length, with Vision Des Flos a close third.

BAGS BACK IN THE GROOVE IN THE PENDIL NOVICES’ CHASE The Harry Fry trained Bags Groove warmed up for a tilt at Aintree, with victory in the Grade Two 888Sport Pendil Novices’ Chase at Kempton Park.

A field of four went to post for this 2-mile, 4 ½ furlong contest.

As the race got underway, it was the mare

Image supplied by Goffs

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Castafiore who was fastest into her stride and led from bags Groove.

At the third, the first ditch, Bags Groove was the more fluent and inched ahead of Castafiore, with Secret Investor close to them in third and then Good Man Pat. The two leaders matched strides down the home straight, as did their two pursuers and with a circuit to run, Castafiore held a slender advantage.

With seven fences to jump, three lengths covered the quartet.

Castafiore took the final ditch, five from home, a length ahead of Bags Groove and Secret Investor, with Good Man Pat next.

Bags Groove joined the mare on the home turn, with Secret Investor poised to deliver his challenge on the wide outside and Good Man Pat tucked in behind the leaders.

Bags Groove pressed on at the second last, with the mare fighting back gamely.

But Noel Fehily got a good jump out of Bags Groove and saw it out to beat Castafiore by a couple of lengths, with Good Man Pat third and Secret Investor a disappointing last.

FUSIL RAFFLES STORMS TO ADONIS VICTORY Fusil Raffles turned the Grade Two 888Sport Take ‘Em On Adonis Juvenile Hurdle into a procession at Kempton Park.

Twelve four year-olds contested this two-mile race.

Rose Sea Has led from Petit Palais for much of the contest.

With three to jump, the long-time leader continued to travel well, with Praeceps and Fusil Raffles waited in behind.

Rose Sea Has turned for home with the lead, with Petit Palais under pressure, while Fusil Raffles sneaked through to the inside as Praeceps stayed on.

But Fusil Raffles scooted clear impressively and took the last well, storming home to a wide margin victory under Daryl Jacob.

The victory gave Nicky Henderson a fifth success in the Adonis Hurdle.

A long way back in second came the running-on Beat The Judge, with Praeceps third.

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SOUTHFIELD STONE OVERCOMES LAST FLIGHT BLUNDER IN THE DOVECOTE Southfield Stone was a game winner of the Grade Two Sky Bet Dovecote Novices’ Hurdle at Kempton Park.

Eight assembled for this two-mile contest, with the highly-regarded Angels Breath leading a field of intriguing potential talent.

At the off, it was Southfield Stone who led from Angels Breath to the inside, while Brecon Hill raced out wider and was followed by the smart flat horse Scarlet Dragon.

Brecon Hill went on at the second flight, as the field set out with a circuit to run.

As the field raced down the back, Brecon Hill continued to lead, while further back, Tokay Dokey was a faller.

Southfield Stone pressed on leaving the back, with Brecon Hill under pressure to stay with his rivals, as they turned for home.

Heading to the second last, Southfield Stone was three lengths up on Angels Breath, with the two drawing clear.

Southfield Stone kept up the gallop and Angels Breath was laboured to close as they approached the last.

But when he needed it most, Southfield Stone blundered badly at the last, opening the door for Angels Breath to have another crack.

Gradually Angels Breath got on terms with Southfield Stone, who drifted to the stands rails on the run-in.

But Harry Cobden kept Southfield Stone straight from that point and he held on by about a length. Normal Norman stayed on for third, ahead of Scarlet Dragon.

CROSSPARK LANDS THE EIDER CHASE Crosspark got the better of a cracking climax to land the Vertem Eider Handicap Chase at Newcastle.

A field of sixteen contested this 4-mile and half a furlong marathon.

Daklondike was reluctant to line-up with the rest of the field and had to be led in from behind.

As the tapes went up, Daklondike planted himself.

Harry The Viking and Just Your Type led at the first, with Morney Wing in third. Meanwhile, last year’s winner, Baywing, took a heavy fall at the first fence and very sadly lost his life.

Four out, there was a still a wide-open look to the race, but Vicente took a crashing fall.

Racing to the third from home, Kilkishen was still there, flanked by Morney Wing and Mysteree.

Brendan Powell Jr and Mysteree, next to the inside, went on, but two out, Potters Corner fell.

The final challenge came from Crosspark and Jamie Moore and Mysteree and Crosspark had it between them at the last and the pair battled resolutely.

Late on it was Crosspark who asserted for a narrow victory over Mysteree, while Morney Wing came home third, ahead of Kilkishen.

The nine year-old Crosspark, was giving trainer Caroline Bailey a big day.

WISSAHICKON POWERS HOME IN THE WINTER DERBY

Wissahickon continued to outclass his all-weather rivals with a brilliant performance in the Group Three Betway Winter Derby Stakes at Lingfield Park.

Seven horses lined-up for this 10-furlong contest, one of the biggest all-weather races of the season.

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NEWS UK RACING At the break it was Wissahickon who burst through, but Hathal and Big Country soon dictated the pace from Court House, as Frankie Dettori settled his mount.

The front trio opened up a big advantage, with Court House going on from Big Country and Hathal, with a three length break to Wissahickon, Chiefofchiefs, Master The World and Pactolus.

Court House and William Buick turned for home with a length lead over Big Country, while Dettori eased Wissahickon to the wide outside.

Wissahickon swept into the lead at the top of the home straight and careered away dominantly, beating his John Gosden trained stable mate Court House by about four lengths, with Pactolus coming through for third.

CHIDSWELL AN EMOTIONAL WINNER OF THE GRIMTHORPE CHASE Chidswell was an emotive winner of the 888Sport Grimthorpe Chase at Doncaster.

Seven took part in this 3 ¼ mile handicap chase which often serves as a Grand National trial.

Dingo Dollar and Rocky’s Treasure vied for the early lead, with the former taking the first fence with a narrow lead and Brian Boranha and Looking Well next, while Barney Dwan raced out wide.

Dingo Dollar and Wayne Hutchinson continued to lead from Rocky’s Treasure to the inside rail, as the field entered the home straight for the first time.

Turning for home, Dingo Dollar was challenged by the Nicky Richards runners, with Chidswell and Looking Well joining Dingo Dollar three out.

Racing to the second last, Chidswell pressed on from looking Well and he headed to the final fence with a three length lead.

Chidswell took the last well, while Looking Well crumpled on landing and fell.

That left Chidswell and Craig Nichol clear of Dingo Dollar and Brian Boranha.

The victory of Chidswell was an emotional one for the trainer and owners David and Nicky Robinson, who a week ago had suffered the heartache of losing Baywing at Newcastle.

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FARCE AS THIRD WIND IS CALLED WINNER AFTER PHOTO ERROR AT SANDOWN Third Wind was eventually rightly called the winner, after the judge had wrongly called One For Rosie the victor, following a battle of inches in the Grade Three European Breeders’ Fund Matchbook VIP “National Hunt” Novices’ Handicap Hurdle Final at Sandown Park.

18 contested this valuable race over two-miles, 3 ½ furlongs.

At the last, One For Rosie touched down in front, ahead of Champagne Well, with Third Wind coming from the back to throw down the final challenge.

In a desperately tight finish, the pair looked inseparable and it was the top weight One For Rosie who was called the winner, after a photograph finish.

However, the photograph used was of the wrong winning post.

An amended result saw Third Wind named first, with One For Rosie second and Champagne Well, slightly hampered in the finish, staying on for third.

MALAYA WINS THE IMPERIAL CUP Malaya overcame trouble in running and a bad error to land the Grade Three Matchbook Imperial Cup Handicap Hurdle at Sandown Park.

Thirteen ran in this two-mile race.

As the tapes went up, it was Chti Balko who led with Speredek and Our Merlin.

Speredek gained superiority and went on down the back straight from Totterdown and Our Merlin, with the field well strung out.

Speredek took the third last with a narrow lead from Totterdown, with First Flow travelling well to the inside and then Our Merlin.

Speredek kicked on again on the home turn and led into the straight with a four length lead over First Flow and Our Merlin, while Monsieur Lecoq travelled well.

Monsieur Lecoq hit the front at the second last, where Malaya closing at the time, made a bad error.

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UK RACING NEWS Further back, Call Me Lord closed too.

It all came down to the final climb up the Sandown hill and it was the Paul Nicholls mare Malaya, who gained the advantage to beat Monsieur Lecoq.

Call Me Lord came from the back for third, with Storm Rising fourth.

Malaya was giving trainer Paul Nicholls another big Saturday winner.

ANNIE MAC DEFIES TOP WEIGHT FOR NEWBURY GRADE TWO VICTORY Top weight Annie Mac routed her rivals to give Jonjo O’Neill Snr and his son victory in the Grade Two EBF & TBA Mares’ “National Hunt” Novices’ Hurdle Series Final at Newbury.

A field of 14 went to post for what is always a competitive race, over 2 miles, 4 ½ furlongs.

Our Dot’s Baby led on the long run to the first flight, with A Little Chaos close-up and then Sweet Adare.

With a circuit to race, Our Dot’s Baby led by 1 ½ lengths, with A Little Chaos heading a bunched field in behind.

With five to jump, Our Dot’s Baby and Rex Dingle continued to set the tempo from A Little Chaos and Sweet Adare, with She Might Bite creeping closer to the inside and then Off The Hook and Sixty’s Belle.

There was drama on the home bend, as The White Mouse appeared to clip heels and fell, while Etamine Du Cochet was brought down.

Up front, Our Dot’s Baby still led approaching the second last, but was under pressure, with She Might Bite closing. Annie Mac meanwhile was improving towards the stands side.

As they raced to the last flight, She Might Bite seemed to go wrong and was quickly pulled up.

The momentum was with Annie Mac and she went clear under Jonjo O’Neill Jr, taking the last flight well and storming home for a wide margin victory.

Sixty’s Belle stayed on for second, ahead of Our Dot’s Baby, with Off The Hook fourth.

AUXERRE LANDS LINCOLN GLORY Godolphin’s fine afternoon continued as Auxerre won the Unibet Lincoln Handicap.

Nineteen took part in the first big handicap of the fledgling turf season, over the Doncaster mile.

Auxerre was up with the pace from the get-go, with Humbert and Masham Star.

But James Doyle and Auxerre set their stall out to lead as the whole field negated the effects of the draw, by racing in one large group, down the centre of the track.

Auxerre passed the two furlong pole with James Doyle still motionless, as the horse moved two lengths clear of Silver Court and inside the final furlong, he was three lengths clear.

That margin was maintained, as the Charlie Appleby trained four year-old, pricked his ears as he passed the post to make it four wins from five starts, looking every bit a Group class horse.

Kynren took second, with Beringer and Breden dead-heating for third.

INVINCIBLE ARMY STORMS TO VICTORY IN THE CAMMIDGE TROPHY The classy Invincible Army got the 2019 British Turf Season off to a fine start as he had too many guns for his rivals in the Listed Cammidge Trophy at Doncaster.

Eight went to post, with the grey Major Jumbo taking the field along.

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NEWS UK RACING James Tate’s Invincible Army gradually moved into contention and took it up with a furlong to race, with his rivals floundering in their efforts to close.

At the line, Invincible Army was around a couple of lengths clear of Major Jumbo, with Equilateral, never really a factor, back in third.

SHARJA BRIDGE IMPRESSES IN THE DONCASTER MILE Sharja Bridge looked a Group class horse as he exuded class in the Listed Unibet Doncaster Mile Stakes at Doncaster.

A field of nine went to post for this race over the straight mile.

SMART HURDLER WE HAVE A DREAM PUT DOWN Nicky Henderson has confirmed that dual Grade One winning hurdler We Have A Dream, has suffered a fatal injury on the gallops.

Simon Munir and Isaac Souede’s five-yearold won the Finale Hurdle at Chepstow and the Anniversary Hurdle at Aintree last season.

He was last seen finishing second in the County Hurdle and was set to contest next week’s Aintree Hurdle.

We Have A Dream broke a leg while working and his trainer commented: “It’s a very sad day. He was unbeaten last year – although he missed the Triumph Hurdle he was the top juvenile. We had him back to his best at Cheltenham last time and we were really looking forward to taking him to Aintree.

“You couldn’t have a nicer character in the yard than We Have A Dream, he was just lovely and so uncomplicated. He was just a joy to have around the place, he always worked well and he would eat everything. You love horses who are the good ones and the nice ones and he was both.”

NOEL FEHILY RETIRES ON A WINNING NOTE

At the break it was Gabrial who led with Apex King and Hells Babe.

Settling down, Hells Babe held the overall lead from Apex King and King’s Pavilion.

With two furlongs to race, the pace quickened and Circus Couture took the lead, but Red Starlight and Sharja Bridge, racing down the centre of the track, soon seized command.

Sharja Bridge and Andrea Atzeni quickly proved they had more gears and his class saw him power clear in impressive style.

At the line the Roger Varian five year old beat Red Starlight by a couple of lengths, with a gap back to Gabrial, who stuck on for third.

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Just moments after riding Eglantine Du Seuil in the Grade Two National Hunt Breeders Supported by Tattersalls Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle (Registered as The Dawn Run) at Cheltenham, jockey Noel Fehily announced he was going to retire.

A tearful Fehily said: “It is probably my last Festival so I enjoyed that. I think I am probably getting aq bit old for this job and I think that will be it now.

“I am not getting any younger and it is a young man’s game.”

Fehily, 44, rode Master Minded to victory in the 2010 Tingle Creek Chase for Paul Nicholls.

That association also yielded Champion Hurdle success with Rock On Ruby in 2012.

Fehily seemed to get better with age – and more opportunities.

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UK RACING NEWS

Image supplied by The Jockey Club

He rode back to back King George victories aboard Silviniaco Conti, in 2013 and 2014.

In 2017 a second Champion Hurdle came thanks to Buveur D’Air and a day later he rode Special Tiara to land the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

Fehily went on to confirm that his final rides would take place at Newbury, on March 23rd.

He brought the curtain down on his riding career, riding Get In The Queue to victory.

The popular dual Champion Hurdle winning jockey was given a guard of honour by his weighing room colleagues and Newbury Racecourse also made a presentation to Fehily, ahead of the Goffs UK Spring Sale Bumper.

Fehily sat in a handy fourth place on Get In The Queue and began to take a more prominent position as they left the back straight, as Prince Llywelyn and Legends Ryde led.

Get In The Queue went on inside the two furlong marker and gradually moved clear under Fehily, turning the final half a furlong into a victory procession to beat Prince Llewelyn by an easing down six lengths, with Fugitives Drift running a promising race in third.

The victory, for his long-time ally, trainer Harry Fry, was greeted with three cheers from an appreciative Newbury crowd.

JOSEPHINE GORDON TO RIDE FREELANCE IN 2019 Josephine Gordon has departed her role as stable jockey to Hugo Palmer and will ride freelance during 2019.

Gordon’s association with the Newmarket trainer was a contributory factor to her becoming champion apprentice in 2016 and the following season she rode over 100 winners.

2018 proved a tougher year with injury affecting Gordon’s season, when she rode 56 winners.

She commented: “I would like to thank Hugo for taking the plunge and appointing me two years ago which gave me so many opportunities including winning my first Group race. Also I was able to ride in my first Grade 1 race in the US which is something I’ll never forget.

“The plan now is to ride as a freelance this year and I’ve been riding out for a few new trainers lately including Ed Dunlop who I’ve never ridden work for before. Hopefully I can also still ride for Hugo but it makes sense to keep my options open. It’s the start of the season and everyone is raring to go and it’s a good time to be in Newmarket.”

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NEWS UK RACING

CAPITAINE SUCCESS BRINGS UP 3,000 WINNERS FOR PAUL NICHOLLS Paul Nicholls, fresh off the back of recording eight winners in one day, reached a tremendous landmark of 3,000 career winners as a trainer, when Capitaine won at Taunton.

The win was Nicholls’ 2,960th jumps winner in Britain and his 3,000th overall, taking into account 11 British Flat successes, 25 in Irish jumps races and four over jumps in France.

Nicholls began training in 1991, having been a successful jumps jockey, with two victories in the Hennessey Cognac Gold Cup on his cv.

By the mid-Nineties, he was making a significant mark and stepped up into the big time at the 1999 Cheltenham Festival when Flagship Uberalles landed the Arkle Chase. The following day, Call Equiname added the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

But more was to follow as See More Business, already a winner of the King George VI Chase, won the 1999 Cheltenham Gold Cup. From his base at Ditcheat, Nicholls built a formidable team and this reached a crescendo with a plethora of superstars in the late Noughties, headed by his Gold Cup winners Denman and Kauto Star, while Big Buck’s won an unprecedented four Stayers’ Hurdles and Master Minded two Queen Mother Champion Chases.

Neptune Collonges added a first Grand National in 2012 and Silviniaco Conti continued Nicholls’ remarkable record in the King George.

After a couple of relatively low key transitional seasons, Nicholls appears to have assembled another strong team of young horses who are now coming to their peak.

Clan Des Obeaux took time to fully blossom, but landed a tenth King George for Nicholls at Christmas, while Cyrname demolished his rivals in the Ascot Chase.

Nicholls has been crowned Champion Trainer on ten occasions.

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QUORTO TO MISS THE 2,000 GUINEAS FOLLOWING SETBACK

Quorto, one of the leading hopes for the Qipco 2,000 Guineas, will not contest the first colts’ Classic, following a setback in Dubai.

The unbeaten son of Dubawi, owned by Godolphin, had been on of the last season’s top juveniles, landing the Group One National Stakes in September.

Quorto had joined some of trainer Charlie Appleby’s other horses at winter training camp at Marmoom Stables in Dubai in January.

The trainer stated: “Unfortunately Quorto has suffered a soft tissue injury in training in Dubai which will mean he will have to miss the 2,000 Guineas.

“It’s a real shame as we had high hopes for him this year. We’ll know more when he’s scanned for a second time in a couple of weeks.”

Appleby added: “It’s too early to say when he could be back in action but we’ve been here before with these injuries and we’ll see how he recovers.”

SETBACK RULES DYNAMITE DOLLARS OUT FOR THE SEASON Paul Nicholls has revealed the Arkle hope Dynamite Dollars has suffered a setback and will miss the rest of the season.

The six-year-old had proved one of the leading two-mile novices this term, with four wins from five

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UK RACING NEWS starts, including the Grade 1 Henry VIII Novices’ Chase at Sandown.

The Ditcheat trainer said in his Betfair blog: “Unfortunately Dynamite Dollars has had a minor setback in training which will prevent him running again this season.

“He has taken to fences so well that we had high hopes for him in the Arkle.”

Nicholls added: “It is something that happens when you have a big team of horses and hopefully Dynamite Dollars will be back next season.

“You have to try to look on the bright side in these situations. I remember the nightmare when Kauto Star was forced to miss the Arkle after sustaining a hairline fracture.

“I told Kauto Star’s owner Clive Smith he might actually benefit from the time off to mature, and that certainly proved to be the case.

“Hopefully it will be the same with Dynamite Dollars, who is an exciting prospect with plenty more to offer.”

CONEYGREE RETIRED The 2015 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Coneygree, has been retired.

The 12 year-old became the first novice to land the blue riband event in 40 years, when he defeated Djakadam in 2015.

However, injuries beset him thereafter and after fading disappointingly at Ascot, Sarah Bradstock, wife of trainer Mark, announced that Coneygree was being retired.

She told ITV Racing: “He’s very happy and I think he’s just told us that enough is enough.

“He had a lovely time and then when they quickened; I know from riding him at home, his engine is still there. But I think it’s probably the wear and tear and injuries that have just got the better of him now, so we will call it a day.

“I’m only sad because he loves it. He still thinks he’s a racehorse.”

After his run at Ascot, Coneygree was paraded at Ascot to rapturous applause.

GOLD CUP HERO BIG ORANGE IS RETIRED Former Gold Cup hero Big Orange has been retired from racing.

The Bill and Tim Gredley-owned gelding made a tremendous mark, initially as a successful Group Two winner at middle distances, before stepping up in trip and proving equally talented, with a memorable defeat of Order Of St George, in the 2017 Gold Cup at Royal Ascot.

The eight year-old first showed indications of his staying prowess when finishing fourth to Hartnell, in the 2014 Queen’s Vase, at the Royal Meeting.

He returned to Ascot to win the Listed Noel Murless Stakes later that autumn.

2015 saw the maturing gelding begin to find his stride, although he disappointed in his first two starts in the spring.

But at Newmarket’s July Festival, under Jamie Spencer, Big Orange sprang a huge surprise when defeating Second Step by ½ a length in the Group Two Princess Of Wales’s Stakes.

Three weeks later he added a second Group Two when getting the better of Quest For More by a battling neck, in the Goodwood Cup. In November 2015, he ran a mighty race to finish 2 ½ lengths fifth to Prince Of Penzance, in the Melbourne Cup.

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NEWS UK RACING

Big Orange was on his travels again the following spring, running a neck second to the outstanding Vazirabad, in the Dubai Gold Cup. After running third in the Jockey Club Stakes on 2,000 Guineas day, Big Orange had a break.

He returned to the July Course to land back to back victories in the Group Two Princess Of Wales’s Stakes, defeating The Grey Gatsby by 2 ½ lengths and appearing in the prime of his form.

He again followed-up three week’s later, with a 1 ¼ length victory over Pallasator, in the Group Two Goodwood Cup and by this stage had a large public following, as a horse who wore his heart on his sleeve.

That autumn he returned to Australia but was not seen to his best effect there or in Sha Tin. In the spring of 2017, Big Orange again gave best to Vazirabad in Dubai.

In late May, Frankie Dettori enjoyed a terrific ride on him as they routed their Henry IInd Stakes rivals at Sandown Park, setting up a tilt at the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot.

In a colossal contest, Big Orange simply would not yield to the reigning champion Order Of St George and the two war horses battled down the Ascot straight in an epic encounter.

But it was Big Orange who emerged with a hard fought victory by a short-head, to earn his one and only Group One victory.

His bid to land a hat-trick in the Goodwood Cup, was further heightened but the race’s upgrade

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to Group One status.

Big Orange ran his usual dependable, bold race, succumbing to future star stayer Stradivarius, by 1 ¾ lengths. John Gosden’s three year-old was receiving 13 pounds and subsequent performances suggest that Orange had an almost impossible task.

Two disappointing runs, culminating in a lack lustre effort in Dubai, in March 2018, saw Big Orange sidelined for the rest of that year through injury.

Now Michael Bell has announced that the popular gelding is to be retired.

He tweeted: “Bill & Tim Gredley have sadly had to make the decision to retire Big Orange after his leg injury flared up last week.8x black type winner including epic 2017 Ascot Gold Cup. A true equine giant in every way. Happy retirement and thank you from all at Fitzroy House Stables.”

Big Orange won nine of his 27 career starts, collecting more than £1.25 million in prize-money.

PETER O’SULLEVAN LAMBOURN OPEN DAY RETURNS IN STYLE Lambourn kicks off Easter Weekend in style, on Good Friday, 19th April 2019, by opening its doors to the public for 29th The Peter O’Sullevan Lambourn Open Day. This annual Berkshire charity event, which was heavily affected by rain in 2018,

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UK RACING NEWS gives visitors the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at some of Britain’s top racehorse training establishments where they can meet the trainers, staff and, of course, their equine heroes.

More than 25 racing yards and horse exhibitions will open on the morning of Good Friday, 19th April to give the public the opportunity to get first-hand experience into the running of top yards such as: Champion Trainer Nicky Henderson, Charlie Hills, Clive Cox and, of course, Grand National winning trainer, Oliver Sherwood.

In the afternoon, the central arena opens with a full programme of equine shows and demonstrations of country skills. The highlight will be a very keenly fought Show Jumping competition between AP McCoy and his daughter Eve, Jamie Osborne and his daughter Saffie, and Mark Bradstock’s wife Sarah and their son Alfie, with no quarter given, nor respect for age. AP McCoy, John Francome and other celebrities will be taking part in the Melbourne 10 sponsored Camel Racing and the always popular schooling, whilst other events include a thrilling show by the Stannage Motorcycle Team, a Windsor Clive sponsored Parade of Equine Heroes to include Sprinter Sacre

and Coneygree, and a Retraining of Racehorses dressage display.

The Lambourn Open Day also gives an opportunity to check out the brilliant facilities at both the Lambourn Valley Equine Hospital and the Injured Jockey’s Fund rehabilitation centre, Oaksey House. There will also be a vast array of trade stands and food stalls to add to what is a great fun Easter day out for all the family, whilst for the first time The Outside Chance Bar will be present, and there will be a live band playing there from 4.30.

Tickets cost £15 on the day for the whole day, £10 for afternoon entertainment only. Children under 12 can enter for free. Car Parks are free and open at 7.30 a.m. Yards will open from 8.30am until 1 p.m. All money raised goes to Lambourn’s registered charity, The Lambourn Valley Housing Trust, which works tirelessly for the welfare of its stable staff, The Air Ambulance and worthy local organisations.

Full coloured programmes, featuring all information on the day including a map, information on all trainers and timings of events will be available in all car parks and yards.

Visit www.LambournOpenDay.com for tickets and more information.

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First class award winning horse racing photography since 1977 www.healyracing.ie Contact Pat Healy on +353 (0)86 877 6855 or email pat@healyracing.ie

NEWS IRISH RACING

PRESENTING PERCY BACK IN STYLE IN THE GALMOY HURDLE

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

Presenting Percy shrugged aside a 316 day absence with a second victory in the Grade Two John Mulhern Galmoy Hurdle, which cemented his credentials as a major player in the Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup. Eleven lined-up for a race which commemorated the trainer and horse that kept many Irish hopes alive at Cheltenham Festivals in the late 1980s.

As the race got underway, it was Don Poli who went on with Coquin Mans.

Settling down and racing on their first full circuit, Conquin Mans went into a four length lead from Don Poli, with a gap back to Killultagh Vic, who raced wide, while Mala Beach raced to the inside.

The order remained relatively unchanged, as Coquin Mans took the fifth last from Don Poli, with Mala Beach next and then the improving Bleu Berry. Meanwhile, Presenting Percy travelled easily on the wide outside, along with Killultagh Vic. Turning towards the third last, Killultagh Vic ranged alongside the leader, as Don Poli faded tamely.

Killultagh Vic pressed on with Presenting Percy tracking him, as they headed to two out, while Limini and Darasso were in striking distance.

Racing to the final flight, Presenting Percy went on, with Killultagh Vic fighting still and there was little to separate them, with Bapaume and Limini also closing.

In a real scrap, Davy Russell and Presenting

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Percy just held on by 1 ¼ lengths from Bapaume, with Killultagh Vic a head back in third and Limini right on their tails.

“It’s days like this that we ride for. It takes a horse as special as this lad for the crowd to get behind him,” said Russell.

“Given the man that trains him, if he didn’t want to run him again before the Gold Cup it wouldn’t bother me. He’s an exceptional man to handle a horse.

“He’s an extraordinary man - all credit has to go to Pat really.”

INVITATION ONLY LANDS THE THYESTES CHASE

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

Willie Mullins landed a seventh victory in the Goffs Thyestes Chase, as Invitation Only delivered at Gowran Park.

A field of 18 set off on this three-miles, one furlong test, with Valseur Lido sent straight up into the lead from Bellow Mome, Mr Diablo and Alpha Des Obeaux.

Turning away from the stands, Valseur Lido held the call from Alpha Des Obeaux and Mr Diable, with Invitation Only, Bellow Mome and Pleasant Company all prominent.

It was the latter who moved to the front as the field turned back into the straight, with Valseur Lido and Alpha Des Obeaux close-up and then Mr Diablo, with the field relatively packed.

At the eighth, the grey Some Neck took a crashing fall but was thankfully quickly to his feet.

Pleasant Company led the remaining 17 runners as they headed out on their final circuit.

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IRISH RACING NEWS Six out, Alpha Des Obeaux, scraping paint to the inside, moved back into the lead from Pleasant Company, with Up For Review taking closer order to the inner and then Mr Diablo.

Alpha Des Obeaux turned for home with Invitation Only and Ruby Walsh looking a threat, as the rest came under pressure, although Out Sam and General Principle had closed from the back.

Two out it was still Alpha Des Obeaux to the inside, while Dounikos fell.

At the last fence, Invitation Only went on and whilst Alpha Des Obeaux fought on gamely, he could not peg the new leader back. Rob James dropped his whip from the back of the last on Alpha Des Obeaux, which perhaps did not help his cause.

At the line, Invitation Only won by 1 ¼ lengths, with the winning connections also responsible for the third home, Up For Review and Out Sam taking fourth..

Last year’s hero of the hour, Monbeg Notorious finished last of the fourteen finishers on this occasion.

“It was a good performance. I just thought he might be ahead of the handicapper going out to three miles and so it’s turned out. I’m very happy,” said Willie Mullins.

“I declared at the weekend hoping we might get a bit of rain that never came. It was fast enough ground and I thought we’d skip that and come here today as there was a bit of rain in the forecast and we got that.

“All his form was soft or yielding ground or heavy ground. I decided there was no point going down to Thurles and it worked out that way.

“I was a bit worried with the way a few of ours are running that he might get to the second last and then stop.

“He was travelling so well with Ruby going down to the third last he took a pull and then just waited and waited.

“He got it right at the last, he met it really right.

It was still up in the air going to the last but Ruby got the better jump, got his nose in front and held on from there.

“We’ll see what the handicapper does but he’ll get an entry for both (the Gold Cup and Grand National) after that run there today.”

HONEYSUCKLE MAKES IT FOUR FROM FOUR AT FAIRYHOUSE Honeysuckle continued her progression with an impressive win in the Grade Three BetVictor Solerina Mares Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

A field of seven mares went to post for this 2 ¼ mile race.

Western Victory took the field along from Kingston Girl, through the early stages.

Racing down the back, Western Victory continued to lead with Honeysuckle moving second and then Tingtangle.

Four from home and the order had not changed, but Tintangle was given a reminder to keep in touch with the front pair and this trio went clear.

Honeysuckle eased past Western Victory on the home turn and Rachel Blackmore set sail for home, drawing three lengths clear at the second last flight.

At the final obstacle, Honeysuckle was well clear and whilst she was far from fluent, the race was over and she won readily from Western Victory, with a wide gap to Tintangle and Robin De Carlow.

The Henry De Bromhead trained Honeysuckle, a five year-old, is unbeaten in four starts Under Rules now.

ESPOIR D’ALLEN COMFORTABLE IN THE LIMESTONE LAD HURDLE Espoir D’Allen advertised his Champion Hurdle credentials with a clear cut victory in the Grade Three Limestone Lad Hurdle at Naas.

A field of five went to post for this two-mile contest that remembers one of the great Irish hurdlers of the turn of the century.

As the race got underway, it was the mare Forge Meadow who led from Tombstone and Jarob, with Espoir D’Allen tracked by Wicklow Brave.

The five passed the stands with a circuit to race and Forge Meadow till leading from Tombstone and Jarob.

As the quintet raced down the back, there was about six lengths covering the whole field and the mare Forge Meadow, still setting the tempo under Robbie Power.

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NEWS IRISH RACING Four out and there was little change in the order, although Espoir D’Allen seemed to land slightly awkwardly, as he moved third.

Forge Meadow turned for home with Tombstone breathing down her neck and Espoir D’Allen being held onto by Barry Geraghty.

It turned into a sprint between the last two flights and Espoir D’Allen quickened best of all to go clear.

An untidy jump at the last didn’t stop the Gavin Cromwell-trained gelding’s momentum – and he shot clear for a decisive victory.

Wicklow Brave, who was ridden patiently by Ruby Walsh, stayed on nicely for second, ahead of Tombstone.

Espoir D’Allen, a five year old son of Voix Du Nord, has now won nine of his ten starts.

BALLYWARD POWERS TO NAAS SUCCESS Ballyward put up a terrific performance to emphatically land the Grade Three Naas Racecourse Business Club Novice Chase at Naas.

A strong field of eleven took part in this threemile contest.

At the off, it was Moonshine Bay who led narrowly from The Conditional and Chris’s Dream, with the ex-French Majurca next.

Chris’s Dream went on at the second fence and moved two lengths clear of Blow By Blow and The Conditional.

Turning into the straight for the first time, Chris’s Dream held a lead of a length to Blow By Blow, with Ballyward moving closer to the outside and then The Conditional, Moonshine Bay to the inside and Majurca.

There was little change in the order as Chris’s Dream and Robbie Power took them out on their final circuit.

Chris’s Dream continued to lead over the fifth from home, where The Conditional joined Blow By Blow and Champagne Classic began to close.

Perhaps eight horses still had a chance at this point and Champagne Classic moved into second place, looking a threat.

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Three out and Moonshine Bay and Rathnure Rebel were pulled up.

Chris’s Dream turned for home with Champagne Classic and Ballyward for company and Shady Operator and Discorama in behind.

Two out Chris’s Dream still led but the action unfolded on the stands side and at the last, Ballyward went on under Ruby Walsh, with Discorama looking a big threat.

The leader jumped the last well,. But Discorama took a crashing fall, thankfully getting up OK. The Willie Mullins trained Ballyward, stretched away from his rivals on the flat for a wide-margin victory that puts him firmly in the RSA Chase picture.

Second home came Chris’s Dream, with Champagne Classic, off the track for nearly two years, taking an encouraging third, ahead of Shady Operator.

COMMANDER OF FLEET LANDS DUBLIN FESTIVAL OPENER Commander Of Fleet and Jack Kennedy got the Dublin Racing Festival off to a perfect start for Gigginstown and Gordon Elliott, in the opening Grade One novice hurdle at Leopardstown.

A field of sixteen took part in this 2 ¾ mile contest.

With the final flight omitted due to the angle of the sun, the race got underway, with Magnium

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IRISH RACING NEWS leading. At the second flight, Salsaretta, at the back of the field, unseated Patrick Mullins.

Magnium took the field down the home straight with Dorrells Pierji second and then Dunvegan and a bunched field as they headed out with a circuit to race.

There was little change in the order over the second last flight and the field left the back with Dorrells Pierji just moving on from Magnium and the improving Commander Of Fleet and Rhinestone.

That was the order at the last and the field began the long run for home, with Rhinestone going on at the home turn, challenged by Commander Of Fleet.

With a furlong to race, Commander Of Fleet went and whilst Rhinestone battled back, it wasn’t enough. Gallant John Joe came third, ahead of the staying on First Approach and Relegate.

APPLE’S JADE TRIUMPHANT IN THE IRISH CHAMPION HURDLE

At halfway, Apple’s Jade continued to lead, with Supasundae and Petit Mouchoir next, as Tombstone dropped away.

Two out and Apple’s Jade still led Supasundae and Petit Mouchoir, with Melon to the inside and Farclas moving closer.

The mare pressed on into a three length lead turning out of the back and to the final flight.

Apple’s Jade took the last well under Jack Kennedy and extended her advantage on the home turn, with Supasundae giving chase and Petit Mouchoir with no answer.

Apple’s Jade with stamina assured, stormed up the home straight uncontested, romping home with a wide margin from Supasundae and Petit Mouchoir, with Melon a most disappointing fourth.

ENVOI ALLEN WINS A DRAMATIC BUMPER

Apple’s Jade dominated throughout for a brilliant win in the Grade One BHP Insurance Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown.

Six lined-up for this two-mile contest, one of the big races of the season in Ireland.

The brilliant mare Apple’s Jade went straight into the lead from Tombstone and last year’s winner Supasundae.

Image supplied by Tattersalls ireland

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

Envoi Allen made it four from four under rules as he won the Grade Two Matheson (C & G) I.N.H. Flat Race at Leopardstown.

Ten of Ireland’s leading bumper horses went to post for this two-mile race.

Ash Hill took the field along on the inside, with Neptune in close company.

The front pair were still there with Envoi Allen and Run Wild Fred.

But turning for home, Envoi Allen went on, chase by Abacadabras.

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NEWS IRISH RACING Envoi Allen was kept up to his work in the final furlong, with Abacadabras still challenging and closing, but dramatically crashing through the inside rails under his own volition, when still in with every chance.

Meticulous eventually came second ahead of Embittered and Beacon Edge.

The Gordon Elliott trained Envoi Allen, racing in the Cheveley Park Stud colours, was given a cool ride by Jamie Codd and looks to be a leading contender for the Weatherbys Champion Bumper at the Cheltenham Festival.

MIN TRIUMPHS IN A BITTERSWEET DUBLIN CHASE Min ran out a comfortable winner of the Grade One Ladbrokes Dublin Chase at Leopardstown, in a race marred by Special Tiara’s fate.

With Simply Ned a late withdrawal, five horses contested this two-mile, one furlong race.

The former Champion Chaser, Special Tiara, set off in the lead, followed by the remaining English challenger, Saint Calvados, with the scheduled first fence omitted due to the low-lying sun.

But disaster struck passing the post, as Special Tiara broke down badly and was immediately dismounted. Tragically, this great chaser, who had lit up so many afternoons over the past six years, suffered a fatal injury.

At the first fence, Castlegrace Paddy was a faller but thankfully got up.

Saint Calvados was left seven lengths clear of Min, who was clear of Ordinary World.

There was no change in the order at the fourth last, where Saint Calvados was far from fluent, allowing Min to close.

Two out and it was still Saint Calvados in front and he took the last three lengths up on Min, but with a long run-in.

Gavin Sheehan was hard at work on Saint Calvados on the home turn, with Min and Ruby Walsh travelling powerfully and going on for an impressive victory.

On the flat, Ordinary World went past Saint Calvados for second.

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LE RICHEBOURG SHOWS HIS QUALITIES AT LEOPARDSTOWN Le Richebourg confirmed his ranking among the season’s best novice chasers, with a clear cut victory in the Grade One Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase at Leopardstown.

Eight horses participated in this two-mile, one furlong race.

Knocknanuss and Voix Du Reve led early on, although the former looked like running out, passing the winning post.

At the first fence away from the stands, Knocknanuss took a crashing fall, leaving Voix Du Reve in front of Us And Them, with Mengli Khan next, followed by Le Richebourg and Duca De Thaix.

Voix Du Reve continued to lead from Us And Them in an open-looking race, with two fences to jump.

Racing to the final bend, Mengli Khan dropped away as Voix Du Reve was challenged by Us And Them, with Le Richebourg tracking the leaders and them Duca De Thaix.

At the last, Le Richebourg went on against the inside, with Us And Them to the outside and Voix Du Reve between horses.

But Voix Du Reve took a heavy fall at the last, leaving Joseph O’Brien’s two horses to fight out the finish.

Le Richebourg had plenty in hand and stormed clear on the run-in to beat Us And Them, with Mengli Khan getting back up for third, after Duca De Thaix had been hampered by the last fence faller.

SIR EREC MAKES ALL FOR IMPRESSIVE SPRING JUVENILE HURDLE WIN Sir Erec put up a dominant display to make all in the Grade One Tattersalls Ireland Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown.

One of the most significant trials for the Triumph Hurdle, attracted a field of seven of Ireland’s most exciting juveniles, over two-miles, after four horses were withdrawn.

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IRISH RACING NEWS

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

As the race got underway, it was the once-raced Sir Erec who led by a couple of lengths from Surin and Tiger Tap Tap. Sir Erec and Mark Walsh continued to lead by about three lengths, with Tiger Tap Tap moving second down the back and then came Surin, with Gardens Of Babylon fourth and then Parisian, Chief Justice and Got Trumped.

The leader extended his advantage to around four lengths, taking the fourth last, with Surin having reclaimed second.

Racing to the second last, Sir Erec still led, with Surin and Tiger Tap Tap closing, followed by Chief Justice.

The race was on as they rounded the home turn, but Sir Erec took the last having quickened and went clear on the flat most impressively, drawing six lengths clear of Gardens Of Babylon, with Surin third and Tiger Tap Tap fourth.

Sir Erec, a son of Camelot, had won his only previous start.

This result only strengthened Joseph O’Brien’s hand in the Triumph Hurdle, following the hugely impressive success of Fakir D’oudairies at Cheltenham recently.

KLASSICAL DREAM FIGHTS BACK IN MULLINS ONE-TWO Klassical Dream showed terrific resolve to fight back once headed and win the Grade One Chanelle Pharma Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown. Formerly known as the Deloitte Novice Hurdle, this two-mile race with a rich history, had a field of seven.

As the race got underway, it was Dancing On My Own who led from Klassical Dream and Vision D’honneur.

There was little change in the order at halfway, with Dancing On My Own still leading Klassical Dream and Vision D’honneur, while Aramon and Entoucas raced next.

Three out, Dancing On My Own was joined by Klassical Dream who edged into the lead, stalked by Vision D’honneur.

The front pair matched strides as they took the second last, with Vision D’honneur closing out wide and then Aramon.

Klassical Dream wore down Dancing On My Own on the home turn, but Vision D’honneur was a threat and Aramon began to close.

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NEWS IRISH RACING Klassical Dream went on at the last, with Aramon the big danger and the two Willie Mullins runners fought out a scintillating finish.

Aramon headed Klassical Dream, but Ruby Walsh galvanised extra effort from his mount on the inside and got back up on the line in a tight finish.

The pair finished well clear of Vision D’honneur in third.

LA BAGUE AU ROI DIGS DEEP FOR FLOGAS CHASE VICTORY La Bague Au Roi was guts personified as she made all for victory in the Grade One Flogas Novice Chase at Leopardstown.

With Delta Work a significant non-runner, along with Riders Onthe Storm, a field of six contested this two-mile, five furlong race, with all eyes on the English mare La Bague Au Roi. It was the mare who disputed the early lead with Jetz and this pair soon pulled a few lengths clear of Winter Escape.

The mare pulled clear under Richard Johnson, as the sextet raced down the home straight, with Jetz still second and then Mortal, Winter Escape, Hardline and Kaiser Black.

La Bague Au Roi continued to take the field along from Jetz, with Hardline becoming detached.

At the final ditch, three out, however, Mortal led a closing pack and the race looked open.

La Bague Au Roi took the second last well and turned for home ahead of Mortal and Jetz, with Winter Escape under pressure and Hardline closing.

But La Bague Au Roi held a two length lead at the last, with Kaiser Black the challenger to the stands side.

Richard Johnson was all-out on the mare, to the inside – and she responded well to hold off her final challenger in a thrilling finish and land her second consecutive Grade One, with a round of superb jumping.

Kaiser Black put up a terrific effort in second, with Hardline running a remarkable third, having been seemingly tailed off – and Jetz getting up for fourth.

Warren Greatrex had pin-pointed this race for his eight year-old mare, citing the trip as her optimum.

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She may on that basis head to the JLT Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival next – and bid to become the second successive mare to win that contest, following Shattered Love’s success in 2018.

BELLSHILL WINS A COMPELLING BATTLE FOR THE IRISH GOLD CUP Just four runners, but a fabulous race saw Bellshill just out-do Road To Respect, to land the Grade One Unibet Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown.

One of the big races of the year in Ireland, saw a depleted field of four, with the defections of Al Boum Photo, Anibale Fly, Balko Des Flos, last year’s winner Edwulf, Monalee and Noble Endeavour.

What promised to be a tactical affair beforehand, saw Ruby Walsh seize the early initiative on Bellshill, from Road To Respect and The Storyteller, while Outlander was not fluent at the first fence.

Bellshill continued to lead from Road To Respect, as the race began to settle and take shape.

Turning into the home straight for the first

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IRISH RACING NEWS time, Bellshill led by a length from road To Respect, with a length to The Storyteller on the outside of Outlander and four lengths covering the quartet.

At the fence in front of the stands, Bellshill slightly over-pitched on landing, but maintained equilibrium, to take the field out on their final circuit, with ten fences in front of them.

At the second past the stands, Road To Respect was pushed on into the lead by Sean Flanagan, with Bellshill a length behind and then The Storyteller and Outlander.

With seven to jump, there was little between the front two, while a length behind, the other pair matched strides.

The race looked wide open, as the four took the fourth last fence, with Road To Respect just in front of Bellshill and The Storyteller, while Outlander was under pressure to keep in touch.

The leader made an error three out and Bellshill came to join him as the front pair pulled clear.

Turning for home, the two were set for a terrific scrap, with The Storyteller seen off.

Road To Respect lengthened heading to the last, but jumped low and Bellshill came to join him on the flat.

In a wonderful battle, neither horse would give way and Bellshill, having edged in front, found Road To Respect fighting back against the inside rail, in grotty fashion.

As the line approached, Road To Respect came back at Bellshill and it was a desperately close finish.

But Bellshill was called the winner from Road To Respect, after a memorable encounter, with The Storyteller back in third and Outlander last of the four.

SANTA ROSSA IMPRESSES IN LEOPARDSTOWN FINALE Santa Rossa looked a smart mare as she landed the Grade Two Coolmore N.H. Sires Irish EBF Mares I.N.H. Flat Race at Leopardstown.

Eight promising mares contested this two-mile contest.

As the flag fell on the final race of the Dublin Racing Festival, it was Jeremys Flame who went into the lead from Rebel OG and Santa Rossa.

There was little change in the order as the field raced down the back straight, with Jeremys Flame leading to halfway from Rebel OG and Santa Rossa, with Two Shoe Tom to the outside and then Heaven Help Us. Turning for home, Jeremys Flame still led with Santa Rossa and Two Shoe Tom, with this trio clear.

The leader found plenty on the rails, but Santa Rossa went on inside the final furlong and asserted to win her second race in as many starts.

Bigbadandbeautiful got up for second, ahead of Jeremys Flame.

ALLAHO BAGS CLONMEL GRADE THREE

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

Allaho is destined for the Cheltenham Festival after winning the Grade 3 Surehaul Mercedes-Benz Novice Hurdle at Clonmel.

The ex-French horse travelled well to challenge when making a mistake at the penultimate flight.

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NEWS IRISH RACING When Ruby Walsh asked his mount for more, approaching the last, Allaho found plenty and went on to win by four lengths fr0m Minella Indo, who had cut out much of the running.

Moskovite came home third.

Winning trainer Willie Mullins said, “He is a nice horse who disappointed me hugely in a bumper at Christmas, compared to the work he had been doing at home. The form did work out though and he was green at Christmas which was the problem.

“We saw it again today as he was very green about getting going to win his race. He had been very free throughout the race so to come off a pace like that pulling as hard as he did and pick up, I was very impressed with him.

“He looks a real chaser in the making and we ran him in that race to see where to go at Cheltenham. Having gone a mile in that race, I thought if he won that the Ballymore could be the race for him because he was very free. He’s in that and the Albert Bartlett and he’ll go straight to Cheltenham now.

“Maybe with that race out of his system he might settle better the next day.”

DARASSO DOMINATES THE RED MILLS TRIAL HURDLE Darasso ran out a convincing winner of the Grade Three Red Mills Trial Hurdle at Gowran Park.

A field of seven went to post for this two-mile contest.

Forge Meadow took the field along and heading to the home turn, was going well, with Darasso and Couer Sublime chasing and the rest beaten off.

Two out and Forge Meadow led under pressure, but Darasso and Barry Geraghty soon went on and drew clear.

A good jump at the last sealed an impressive victory, with Darasso cantering home clear of Forge Meadow, with Rashaan taking third.

“He ran well enough here the last day in a good race (when fifth in the Galmoy Hurdle) but I’d say coming back in trip was a help to him and he likes soft ground,” said winning trainer Joseph O’Brien.

“Barry gave him a good ride, he kept him in the

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race without forcing him too much.

“I guess we’ll stick to these kind of graded races as he’s too high really for handicaps.

“He could have a shot at a Grade One later in the year. These are probably the races for him and we’ll be sticking to soft ground as much as we can with him.”

MONALEE MAKES ALL IN THE RED MILLS CHASE Monalee warmed up for big engagements this spring, with an all the way success in the Grade Two Red Mills Chase at Gowran Park.

With Presenting Percy a non-runner, four linedup for this 2 ½ mile race.

Monalee took the field along for much of the race, with Killultagh Vic second.

However, with three to jump, Anibale Fly became the sole challenger, seeing off Edwulf.

But Rachael Blackmore and Monalee had plenty left in the tank and saw off the threat of last season’s Gold Cup third to win by a convincing couple of lengths.

Anibale Fly ran a terrific race in second, with Killultagh Vic gaining third from Edwulf.

TIGER ROLL STORMS TO BOYNE HURDLE SUCCESS Tiger Roll confirmed his well-being with a resounding success in the Grade Two Ladbrokes Ireland Boyne Hurdle at Navan.

A field of six lined-up for this 2-mile, 5-furlongs contest.

Coquin Mans went straight into the lead from Cracking Smart and Bless The Wings.

Paul Townend and Coquin Mans continued to set the pace, running some five lengths clear of Cracking Smart, with Bless The Wings, Bachasson, Tiger Roll and Off You Go bunching in behind, as they raced down the home straight for the first time.

With a circuit to go, Coquin Mans held a reduced advantage.

Racing down the back, Bless The Wings made a bad error and dropped to last.

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IRISH RACING NEWS Coquin Mans meanwhile, held a reduced lead with Cracking Smart getting closer, as were Bachasson, Off You Go and the Grand National winner Tiger Roll.

Racing to the home straight, Bless The Wings had joined the other five and it looked a wide open race.

Coquin Mans turned in with a narrow lead but was joined by Tiger Roll, with Cracking Smart and Off You Go challenging.

But Tiger Roll and Keith Donoghue asserted and went clear at the last.

A fine leap sealed the victory and Tiger Roll forged on to win by about four lengths from Off You Go and Cracking Smart.

GRADE TWO SUCCESS FOR CHRIS’S DREAM Chris’s Dream had to work hard but battled well to land the Grade Two Ladbrokes Acca Boosty Ten Up Novice Chase at Navan.

Six took part in this three-mile contest.

At flag fall it was Blow By Blow who led from Moonshine Bay and Champagne Classic.

At the third fence, Moonshine Bay pressed on from Blow by Blow, with this pair clear of Champagne Classic, Agent Boru, Chris’s Dream and Any Second Now. At the fence before the home straight, Blow By Blow slowed into the obstacle and lost ground, as Moonshine Bay went a length clear.

Blow By Blow went back in front down the home straight and held a slender lead from Moonshine Bay, with a circuit to run.

With eight to jump, Blow By Blow was again deliberate approaching the fence and Moonshine Bay went on from a bunched field, with Agent Boru tailing off.

Moonshine Bay took the field out of the back to the home straight, with Chris’s Dream and Champagne Classic, with Any Second Now fourth and this quartet had pulled away.

Three out and Moonshine Bay was under pressure as Champagne Classic and between horses, Chris’s Dream, challenged.

That latter touched down in front two from

home and led racing to the last, but under pressure.

Chris’s Dream was far from fluent at the final fence, with Champagne Classic fighting hard to close.

But Rachael Blackmore had enough in hand to hold off the challenge and land the race, with Any Second Now taking third from Moonshine Bay. The Henrdyh De Bromhead trained seven yearold, was a Grade Three winner over hurdles and has now added Grade Two chase success to his resume.

GO ANOTHER ONE BAGS THURLES FEATURE The improving Go Another One ran out a clearcut winner of the Grade Three Michael Purcell Memorial Novice Hurdle at Thurles.

Six lined-up for this 2 ½ mile contest and it was Harrie who narrowly led from Denwork and Go Another One, as the field took the first flight.

Settling down, Harrie led from Dream Conti and Denwork.

As the field took the flight that would be the last in a circuit’s time, Harrie crashed out, leaving Dream Conti in front of Denwork and Notebook.

With three to jump, the field seemed to bunch up, with Go Another One poised behind the Gigginstown trio.

Two out and it was Notebook who went on with Go Another One and this pair went on from the grey Denwork.

Go Another One and Robbie Power hit the front approaching the last and jumped well, storming clear of Notebook and Denwork, to give trainer John McConnell a big day.

WAY BACK HOME TOO GOOD AT FAIRYHOUSE Way Back Home made every yard of the running for a dominant victory in the Grade Three Winning Fair Juvenile Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Six horses took part in this two-mile contest.

At flag fall, it was Way Back Home who led from Authorizo and Our Legend.

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NEWS IRISH RACING There was no real change in the order and four out, Way Back Home led Authorizo, with these two clear of Our Legend and Morosini.

The leader turned for home under Robbie Power, with Authorizo trying to get on terms and nothing emerging from behind.

But Way Back home found more between the final two flights and went clear, with a good jump sealing an impressive win.

Second home came Morosini, with Authorizo third.

RATHVINDEN BACK WITH BOBBYJO CHASE SUCCESS Rathvinden made the perfect comeback as he landed the Grade Three Betvictor Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse.

Six went to post for this three-mile, one-furlong race.

At the off it was Alpha Des Obeaux who led Outlander and the mare Magic Of Light.

Settling down, Alpha Des Obeaux opened up a clear advantage and by the third fence was three lengths clear of Outlander and Magic Of Light, with Rathvinden next, followed by Valseur Lido and Champagne Harmony.

Jack Kennedy and Alpha Des Obeaux continued to bowl along and took the field into the home straight for the first time, still three lengths clear.

With a circuit to race, Alpha Des Obeaux was a couple of lengths clear of Outlander and Magic Of Light, while Champagne Harmony was becoming detached.

There was little change in the order with eight to jump, with Alpha Des Obeaux leading Outlander, but Magic Of Light blundered and decantered Robbie Power.

The leader meanwhile, pressed on and extended his lead from Outlander, with Rathvinden and Valseur Lido.

Image supplied by the Jocky Club

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IRISH RACING NEWS Outlander closed right up on the leader with five to jump, while Rathvinden and Valseur Lido had also closed, while Champagne Harmony had pulled up.

Racing to the third last, Alpha Des Obeaux still held the call, with Rathvinden giving chase in second, tracked by Valseur Lido, as Outlander tired.

Alpha Des Obeaux turned for home in front and took the second last with a reduced advantage over Rathvinden, with Valseur Lido still in touch.

Heading to the final fence, Rathvinden overhauled the gallant Alpha Des Obeaux and the Cheltenham Festival winner swept on to victory, with Valseur Lido back in third.

Willie Mullins will have been delighted with his eighth victory in the Bobbyjo Chase, as the eleven year-old Rathvinden, made a successful seasonal debut.

FLYINGBOLT TRIUMPH FOR JETZ Jetz overcame a calamitous first fence blunder to make all for an impressive victory in the Grade Three Flyingbolt Novice Chase at Navan.

Four lined-up for this race remembering one of National Hunt racing’s greatest ever horses, over two miles and a furlong.

Jetz set off in front and despite an extravagant jump at the first, he was three lengths clear of Duca De Thaix, as the field headed out with a circuit to race.

Racing down the back, Jetz widened the margin from Duca De Thaix, with gaps back to Benruben and Mrs Lovett.

Five out and Jetz was still clear of Duca De Thaix, with the pair seemingly having the race between them.

Jetz turned for home with a two length lead over Duca De Thaix, while Benruben had closed.

Duca De Thaix found nothing and as Jetz took the second last, it was just a question of whether Benruben could close down the long-time leader.

Jetz was spring-heeled at the last and just kept up to his work by Paul Townend for a facile win over Benruben, with Duca De Thaix running a very flat race, finishing ahead of Mrs Lovett.

KAISER BLACK STORMS TO NAAS VICTORY Kaiser Black finished well in command as he landed the Grade Three Naas Directors Plate Novice Chase.

Four took part in this 2 ½ mile race.

The prolific Camelia De Cotte went into the early lead from Jetz and Kaiser Black, with Robin Des Foret settled at the back.

However, Jetz blundered badly at the first and ejected Robbie Power, before hampering Robin Des Foret at the next fence, leaving him tailed off.

Meanwhile, Camelia De Cotte led Kaiser Black, in what effectively was a match race, as the trio headed into the home straight for the first time.

There was little change as they raced down the back and at the fifth last, Camelia De Cotte led Kaiser Black by 1 ½ lengths, with Robin Des Foret tailed off.

Racing into the home straight, with two to jump, Camelia De Cotte travelled well, but had not shaken off Kaiser Black.

Over the second last, Kaiser Black maybe jumped marginally better and he went on under Jack Doyle, heading to the last.

A good jump sealed victory and Kaiser Black stormed clear for an impressive victory over Camelia De Cotte, with Robin Des Foret a remote third.

Kaiser Black had given La Bague Au Roi plenty to think about at Leopardstown on his prior start.

MOYHENNA CRUISES TO GRADE TWO SUCCESS AT LIMERICK Moyhenna dictated and dominated proceedings to score an easy success in the Grade Two Charleville Cheese Irish EBF Mares Novice Chase at Limerick.

Half a dozen mares took part in this two-mile, six and a half furlong race in heavy ground.

At the start it was Sweet Destination who just shaded Moyhenna, with the latter going on, as they reached the first fence, with Redhotfillypeppers taking second.

Moyhenna opened up a clear lead after the line of four fences, with Redhotfillypeppers second and then Missy Tata and a gap to Sweet Destination,

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NEWS IRISH RACING Dawn Shadow and Oh Me Oh My. Moyhenna was joined by Redhotfillypeppers at the fence in front of the stands, the pair five lengths clear of Missy Tata, with a further break to the rest, as they set out on their final circuit.

The leading two took seven out with a wider margin back to Missy Tata.

Moyhenna went clear again at the third last and raced to two out with a six length advantage over Redhotfillypeppers, with the rest well in arrears.

Denis Hogan and Moyhenna straightened for home and jumped two out with a 15 length lead over Redhotfillypeppers and she sauntered to the last, jumped it well and coasted to a wide-margin victory.

Back in second came Oh Me Oh My, with Redhotfillypeppers third and then Sweet Destination, with the other two pulled up.

DARASSO DELIVERS WEBSTER CUP FOR JOSEPH O’BRIEN Joseph O’Brien’s good form continued as Darasso got the upperhand late on, to win the Grade Two Toals . com Webster Cup Chase at Navan.

A field of five went to post for this two-mile contest.

Cadmium and Woodland Opera were the early leaders, with Tycoon Prince to the outside, also prominent over the first fence.

Barry Geraghty gave Darasso a patient ride and sat in last through the early stages.

Tycoon Prine went on from Woodland Operate and this pair moved three lengths clear of Cadmium, with a gap to the remaining two.

Heading to the fifth last, Woodland Opera joined Tycoon Prince up front, the pair still clear of Cadmium, as they left the back straight.

Four out and Woodland Prince was all but down, leaving Cadmium chasing Tycoon Prince, while Darasso had made stealthy progress.

Into the home straight, Cadmium joined Tycoon Prince, with Cadmium right on the premises.

Cadmium took the second last with a two length lead over Darasso and Tycoon Prince and the pair raced to the last.

Darasso took the last with a narrow lead and

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had the better turn of foot on the flat to outpoint Cadmium by 2 ¼ lengths.

RED EPAULETTE IMPRESSES IN GETTING THE IRISH TURF FLAT SEASON UNDERWAY Red Epaulette looked a useful recruit as he ran out a convincing winner of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at Naas.

Eleven juveniles went to post for this fivefurlong race.

Captain Corcoran and Value Chain were away well.

Captain Corcoran, racing down the centre of the track, was joined by Lequinto, while Value Chain raced towards the far rail.

In behind, Red Epaulette tracked the leaders and went on under Leigh Roche, inside the two furlong marker.

Value Chain challenged to the far side, but Red Epaulette quickened away smartly to win by three lengths, with Feministra finishing third.

Michael O’Callaghan and Leigh Roche were making the perfect start to their trainer-jockey partnership with this promising son of Australia stallion Epaulette.

KARAWAAN LANDS THE IRISH LINCOLN ON LYONS DEBUT Karawaan made a big impression on his debut for trainer Ger Lyons, as he ran out a clear cut winner of the Tote Irish Lincolnshire at Naas.

The first big handicap of the Irish Turf season attracted a field of 20 horses, over a mile.

There was a considerable delay as Theobald spread a plate down at the start and with most of the horses loaded, they all had to be taken out of the stalls.

They set off with Warnaq and Shatharaat.

Warnaq continued to lead by a couple of lengths from Shatharaat and Thebold as he approached the home turn.

Straightening up and Warnaq was still clear of Shatharaat, with Trading Point improving.

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IRISH RACING NEWS Racing to the furlong pole, Trading Point came to challenge but on the inside, Karawaan took over and stormed two lengths clear under Colin Keane.

The lightly-raced five year old kept up the gallop all the way to the line to beat Trading Point , with Master Speaker staying on for third ahead of the long-time leader Warnaq.

Karawaan had formerly been trained in Newmarket by Sir Michael Stoute.

NORMANDEL COMPLETES BOLGER AND MANNING HAT-TRICK Normandel showed improved form to narrowly win the Group Three Lodge Park Stud Irish EBF Park Express Stakes at Naas.

Nine fillies and mares contested this one mile race.

At the break it was Iiex Excelsa and Fresnel who led with Delphinia to the inside and then came Ellthea.

Settling down and Iiex Excelsa moved two lengths clear of Delphinia, with Fresnel next and then Rionach and that was the order, as they turned for home, with Yulong Gold Fairy making progress.

With two furlongs to run, Iiex Excelsa still led a wide open race, with Fresnel to the outside and Normandel and Yulong Gold Fairy challenging.

Yulong Gold Fairy went on at the furlong pole, but on the inside rail, Normandel fought back to get her head in front on the line.

Hand On Heart flew home on the outside for second, with Yulong Gold Fairy ¾ of a length down in third and Iiex Excelsa fourth.

Normandel was showing improved form and underlining the terrific form of the Jim Bolger yard.

The five year-old daughter of Le Havre, formerly trained in France by Pia Brandt, was completing an opening day treble for the trainer and jockey, following the earlier victories of Western Dawn and Solar Wave.

STILL STANDING ROMPS TO DEVOY STAKES VICTORY

A field of eight went to post for this 1 ¼ mile race, with lots of attention on the one-time Derby hopeful Amedeo Modigliani, making his return to the race track for the first time since August 2017.

At the off it was Tiger |voice who led from Algo Rhythm, with Stellar Mass tracking these and followed by Hazel Bay. There was little change in the order, as Tiger Voice reached the five furlong pole and he turned for home narrowly ahead of Algo Rhythm, with Stellar Mass still third.

Straightening up for home, Still Standing came to challenge the leader down the outside, chased by Amedeo Modigliani.

Tiger Voice kept on to the furlong pole, where Still Standing went clear to beat Hazel Bay by about three lengths, with Amedeo Modigliani , perhaps short of full race fitness, coming home third.

Still Standing was making it four wins from his last five starts and was getting the new partnership of Jessica Harrington and Shane Foley off to a flying start.

SIZING JOHN RULED OUT FOR THE SEASON Sizing John, winner of the 2017 Cheltenham Gold Cup, has suffered a setback and will not race this season.

The frustrating news was broken by trained Jessica Harrington, who was unable to defend his crown last season due to injury.

She reported on her Unibet blog: “Unfortunately, Sizing John has met with a setback and he will miss the remainder of this season. After routine exercise yesterday, I wasn’t happy with him and our vet came down and examined him.

“He has confirmed to me that he has met with a setback, which means that he won’t run at Cheltenham or Punchestown. His owners have been informed and, naturally, they are very disappointed, as is everyone at Commonstown.

“We will do what is best for him and we’ll speak to our veterinary team over the coming weeks and months and we will keep everyone posted on his progress.”

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NEWS IRISH RACING

SPECIAL TIARA: TRIBUTE TO A FALLEN HERO National Hunt racing showed its teeth in the worst possible way at Leopardstown. On an afternoon meant to celebrate its champions, it claimed the life of one of those to have reached the zenith of the sport.

Special Tiara was a champion to celebrate, the image of him taking off outside the wings of a fence is an enduring image – and an endearing one to anybody who loves our sport.

His exuberance became the stuff of jumping folklore and it was not his jumping that cost him.

His career and life tragically came to and end with him sustaining an injury on the flat, when doing what he loved best, leading his rivals in a top class chase.

Trained by Henry De Bromhead, the twelve year-old son of Kayf Tara, out of a Bob Back mare, had long since won the hearts of jumps racing fans.

His style of racing was uncompromising; he took no prisoners, taking many a race by the scruff of the neck from the outset – and simply jumping his rivals into the ground.

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Having shown promise in three novice hurdle starts in the spring and summer of 2012, Special Tiara was put to fences that autumn, winning on debut and then running second to subsequent Arkle Chase runner-up Baily Green, in the Grade Three Buck House Novice Chase.

A disappointing run at Leopardstown the following March, saw Special Tiara miss Cheltenham and head to Aintree.

April 2013 brought the first public signs that Special Tiara might have a touch of champion material about him.

He defeated Overturn by a length and three quarters in the Grade One Maghull Novices’ Chase, although later in the month he failed to build on that when beaten a long way by Arvika Ligeonniere at Punchestown, albeit on heavy ground.

The theory soon developed that Special Tiara was a different horse in the spring and on better ground.

The spring of 2014 saw Special Tiara’s first crack at the Queen Mother Champion Chase, where he ran 15 ½ lengths sixth to Sire De Grugy.

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IRISH RACING NEWS In Sandown Park’s Celebration Chase, the following month, the gap was down to 4 ¾ lengths.

2014 also saw Special Tiara run second on the flat, in a Killarney maiden.

But he saved his best performance of that year for Kempton Park over Christmas, when his spectacular leaps had the crowd gasping, as he handed out a 2 ¼ length defeat to Balder Succes, in the Grade Two Desert Orchid Chase.

That put Special Tiara in line for another crack at the Queen Mother Champion Chase – and March 201t5 the Gods bestowed good ground on the Cheltenham Festival, to help his cause.

Once again, Special Tiara cut out a spectacular figure, leading the field with a series of extravagant jumps.

He was still there fighting his corner at the last, eventually finishing three lengths third to Sire De Grugy and Somerbsy, with a terrific run.

The spring horse came to the fore once again, at Sandown Park, in April 2015, beating former champion Sprinter Sacre by six lengths, to gain a second Grade One victory, in the Celebration Chase.

After returning below par on soft ground, Special Tiara returned to Sandown Park in December 2015, for a controversial Grade One Tingle Creek Chase.

As always, he was up with the pace, but headed

by Sire De Grugy, racing to the last. However, his rival appeared to run across him, hampering Special Tiara, who rallied gamely on the flat to finish ¾ of a length second to his rival.

It was an unlucky outcome but further evidence that Special Tiara was one of the leading lights in the two-mile division.

In March he again put up a splendid performance in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, running his consistent race to finish 3 ½ lengths third to the rejuvenated Sprinter Sacre in a race to savour.

Christmas 2016 saw another spectacular run which saw Special Tiara win a second Desert Orchid Chase, defeating Sir Valentino by ½ a length.

But the best was still to come at the Cheltenham Festival in March 2017, when he put up a battling performance to beat Fox Norton by a head in a pulsating Queen Mother Champion Chase.

It was a well-earned triumph for a horse who had knocked on the door consistently against outstanding horses in previous renewals. It also cemented Special Tiara’s place in the hearts of many racing fans who loved his attitude and style of racing.

The following month, Special Tiara took on another superstar, when proving no match for the rising stock of Altior, succumbing to an eight length defeat in the Celebration Chase.

After that run, age perhaps began to catch up with Special Tiara, but he was still capable of the most exuberant performances to give warmth to the coldest of winter afternoons.

His loss at the end of a glorious and long career is raw and keenly felt. He was a horse that took on the best: Sprinter Sacre, Sire De Grugy, Dodging Bullets, Altior. He ran in four successive Queen Mother Champion Chases and that great race will be much the poorer for his absence.

Special Tiara won seven of his 37 starts, including three Grade Ones, placing on a further 17 occasions.

ROGER LOUGHRAN RETIRES FROM RIDING Jockey Roger Loughran, perhaps best remembered for his association with that smart two-miler Central House, has announced his retirement as a jockey, after a career spanning over 20 years.

He had his last rides at Down Royal on January 29th and is now set to concentrate on pre-training young horses.

Loughran partnered his last winner at Wexford in October when scoring on Peregrine Run for Peter Fahey.

Loughran rode the same horse to victory in a Grade 2 at Cheltenham in November 2016.

He said today:- “I’m happy to announce my retirement from race-riding today.

“I started riding over 20 years ago and want to thank every trainer and owner for their support over those years, especially the late Dessie Hughes, Sandra Hughes and Peter Fahey.

“I’m really looking forward to developing my pre-training establishment into the future. I’ll also continue to ride out.”

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

TOO DARN HOT Too Darn Hot was announced the European Champion Two-Year-Old of 2018 with a rating of 126 as the 2018 European Two-Year-Old Classifications are published.

The son of Dubawi proved himself the best twoyear-old in Europe since Frankel shared top honours with Dream Ahead on the same rating in 2010. There has been no juvenile rated higher since Xaar in 1997.

2018 was a strong year at the top of the twoyear-old tree with no fewer than six horses rated at 118 or above. Those ratings came from strung-out finishes to the best three races; the Darley Dewhurst Stakes, Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes and the Juddmonte Middle Park.

It was a stellar year for Dubawi. The Darley stallion is responsible for the best two juveniles of 2018 in Too Darn Hot and Quorto, and the pair went into winter quarters as the unbeaten winners of seven races between them.

The BHA’s Lead two-year-old Handicapper Graeme Smith said: “Too Darn Hot confirmed himself an outstanding juvenile in the Dewhurst where he put some strong form lines firmly in the shade. The last three two-year-olds rated at his level went on to win 15 Group 1s between them, and in what promises to be an above-average classic crop he already sets a lofty standard with the potential of better still.”

John Gosden has enjoyed huge success with

three-year-olds and upwards in recent years but Too Darn Hot is just his second champion juvenile, following on from Oasis Dream in 2002. This year Gosden has two juveniles in the top 10, with his Coventry-winner Calyx achieving a rating as high as 115 despite having his season limited to just two races within 11 days in June.

The leading juvenile filly of 2018 was also housed in Newmarket in the shape of Pretty Pollyanna.

Michael Bell’s daughter of Oasis Dream came to prominence with a dominant performance in the town’s Duchess of Cambridge Stakes in July, and later backed that up with a harder-fought success in the Group 1 Prix Morny in Deauville. She failed to carry her form through to two autumn Group 1 targets but, nevertheless, her 116 performance remains the benchmark in the fillies division.

Mark Bird, Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Handicapper and delegate at the European twoyear-old meeting, said: “Quorto put up the best performance by a juvenile in Ireland in 2018, following in the footsteps of his sire Dubawi in winning both the Bet365 Superlative Stakes and the Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes at two, and he rates just 1lb below his sire as a two-year-old on 121.

“The leading Irish-trained juvenile was Aidan O’Brien’s Ten Sovereigns, who completed an unbeaten season with a defeat of Jash in the Juddmonte Middle Park Stakes and who ends the year on a rating of 120, which is 1lb ahead of the figure achieved by his sire No Nay Never at two.”

Image supplied by the BHA

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Caption

Overall, 44 juveniles achieved a rating of 110 or above in 2018 which is slightly down historically, with the average since 2010 sitting at 47. There was an even split between British and Irish-trained horses at 20 each. That continues the trend of increasing depth in Ireland and this year’s total is bettered only by 21 Irish juveniles in 2011.

Three French-trained colts in the classification are headed by the exciting Persian King. Andre Fabre’s giant Kingman colt impressed on the sectionals when beating the subsequent Vertem Trophy winner Magna Grecia in the Masar Godolphin Autumn Stakes. He could well take higher order in the threeyear-old classification of 2019.

One of the most keenly anticipated parts of the annual press conference is when the handicappers give dark horses to follow for the upcoming season.

These have included the Group 1 winners Without Parole, Cracksman, Barney Roy, and Harry Angel in the last 2 years and this year’s nominated horses are:

CRACKSMAN AND WINX SHARE HONOURS AT LONGINES AWARDS The Australian mare Winx and the British horse Cracksman were both crowned the 2018 Longines World’s Best Racehorses. Accelerate, from America, was ranked third. On this occasion, the 2018 Longines World’s Best Horse Race award was given to the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe for the third time.

On Wednesday January 23rd, Longines and its long-time partner the International Federation of

Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), were delighted to host the 2018 Longines World’s Best Racehorse and Longines World’s Best Horse Race ceremony in London. With an equal rating of 130, Winx and Cracksman were together declared the 2018 Longines World’s Best Racehorses.

Winx has been in the Top 10 of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings since 2015 and has been the highest rated filly/mare in the world since 2016. In 2018, she claimed overall top honours during a season that culminated in her becoming the only horse in history to win the Ladbrokes Cox Plate four times.

As co-winner, Cracksman impressed as well.

The British runner was campaigned by the same connections as Golden Horn, the 2015 highest rated turf horse in the world. Cracksman’s jockey in 2018 was Frankie Dettori, who was named Longines World’s Best Jockey in 2018 as well as in 2015.

Accelerate, with a rating of 128, was honoured as the third-highest rated horse in the world during the ceremony, which for the first time was held at the iconic Landmark hotel in London. Accelerate was the dominant older horse in America in 2018, and Longines was proud to time his great victory in the Breeder’s Cup Classic at Churchill Downs.

This classification is established by international handicappers according to the performance of the horses in top international races. Last year, Arrogate from the United States was named the 2017

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING Longines World’s Best Racehorse following his epic victories in the Pegasus World Cup in Florida and the Dubai World Cup. The representatives of the three winning horses were presented with elegant Longines watches. The connections of Winx and Cracksman also received a replica of the Longines World’s Best Racehorse vase from IFHA representatives.

One ceremony, two awards On this occasion, Longines and the IFHA were also proud to award the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe as the 2018 Longines World’s Best Horse Race. Longines is proud to be the Official Partner and Official Timekeeper of this mythic race that takes in Paris, and attracts the best horses, breeders, trainers and owners from all over the world.

France Galop President Edouard de Rothschild was in London this Wednesday to accept the award. He was presented with an elegant Longines timepiece, a commemorative plate and a replica trophy representing a proud horse head. The first four finishers of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in 2018 were Enable, Sea Of Class, Cloth Of Stars, and Waldgeist. The Arc also won the award in 2017 and was the inaugural winner of the Longines World’s Best Horse Race Award in 2015.

The Longines World’s Best Horse Race award recognizes the best-rated race of the highest-rated Group 1 international races as established by a panel of international handicappers. The ratings of the top four finishers in each race serve as basis for the assessment.

Longines and the IFHA: a long-term partnership and common values Passionate about horse racing since more than a century, Longines is proud to be the Official Partner and Official Watch of IFHA, and to lend its name to the Longines World’s Best Racehorse Rankings.

The long-term partnership between Longines and the IFHA has seen the establishment of a prestigious set of awards aimed to honour the excellence of horseracing. The Longines World’s Best Racehorse and Horse Race Award, the Longines and IFHA International Award of Merit, and the Longines World’s Best Jockey Award respectively pay tribute to the racehorses, horse races, personalities, and jockeys who excel at the highest level of the sport.

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PRIX DE L’ARC DE TRIOMPHE NAMED LONGINES WORLDE BEST RACE

Image supplied by France Gallop

For the third time in four years, the Longines World’s Best Horse Race award was given to the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in 2018.

France Galop President Edouard de Rothschild was in London this Wednesday, January 23rd, to accept the award. The first four finishers of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in 2018 were Enable, Sea Of Class, Cloth Of Stars, and Waldgeist. The Arc also won the award in 2017 and was the inaugural winner of the Longines World’s Best Horse Race Award in 2015.

The Longines World’s Best Horse Race award recognizes the best-rated race of the highest-rated Group 1 international races as established by a panel of international handicappers. The ratings of the top four finishers in each race serve as basis for the assessment.

The Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe won by defending champion Enable has thus achieved a rating of 125.0 pounds (or 56.6 kilos). The Prix Ganay, whose prizemoney had been doubled in 2018 on inauguration day at ParisLongchamp, is also part of the first ten races in the world on turf with a rating of 122.25 pounds, which places it in fourth position in Europe. Its winner, Cracksman, is indeed the best horse of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, tied for the world ranking with the Australian mare Winx, who has never left her country.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS

DREAM CASTLE IMPRESSIVE IN MEYDAN Dream Castle took command to run out a convincing winner of the Group Two Al Rashidiya at Meydan.

A field of nine went to post for this nine-furlong contest on the turf.

From the break, it was Bay Of Poets who led, with Arod tracking him for much of the contest.

But with two furlongs to race, Christophe Soumillon made his move on Dream Castle, with Racing History briefly looking a danger.

However, Dream Castle impressively drew clear to win by three lengths, with Leshlaa doing his best work late on to claim second, ahead of Racing History and Blair House, as Godolphin swept the places.

D’BAI LANDS GROUP TWO-YEAR-OLD D’Bai and James Doyle were clear cut winners of the Group Two Al Fahidi Fort at Meydan.

Thirteen took part in this seven furlong race on the turf, with Janoobi taking the field along for much of the contest, tracked by Lansky and Comin’ Through.

Doyle made his move with 1 ½ furlongs to travel, hitting the front and chased through by Mythical Magic and Brave Zolo.

But the five year-old, D’Bai, had enough in hand to repel Mythical Magic by 1 ¾ lengths.

BRICKS AND MORTAR PROVE SOLID IN THE PEGASUS WORLD CUP TURF Bricks And Mortar was delivered with consummate timing to land the inaugural Grade One Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational Stakes at Gulfstream Park.

A field of ten horses lined up for this 9 ½ furlong contest on rain-soaked turf.

At the break it was an even start, with Fahan Mura moving into the lead from Aerolithe and

Magic wand, as the field set off with a circuit to race.

Fahan Mura continued to show plenty of early speed and led Aerolithe by a length, but Catapult raced freely and moved to the lead down the back stretch, with Dubby Dubbie next.

Catapult led at the top of the stretch from Delta Prince, with Magic Wand to the inside.

Straightening up, Delta Prince momentarily led, but Bricks And Mortar and Irad Ortiz Jr., came with a withering run to the outside and hit the front with a furlong to race, before forging clear.

At the line, the Chad Brown trained Bricks And Mortar was good value for a three-length victory over Magic Wand, with Delta Prince third and Catapult fourth.

CITY OF LIGHT BLASTS TO PEGASUS WORLD CUP GLORY City Of Light drew a line under his racing career with a scintillating performance to land the Grade One Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes at Gulfstream Park.

A dozen horses bid for this prize, worth over £3 million to the winner and raced over nine furlongs on the dirt.

In deteriorating light and torrential rain, the third running got underway, with Accelerate looking to continue the record of Breeders’ Cup Classic winners landing this race, in his final career start.

From the gates, there was an even break and it was Patternrecognition, who was bustled up into the early lead, to get across from his wide berth, to the inside, heading into the first turn.

Patternrecognition settled a length ahead of City Of Light, with Tom’s D’Etat and Accelerate, followed by Bravazo.

City Of Light took control at the top of the stretch and turned for home with a 1 ½ length lead, with Accelerate challenging and the pair clear.

City Of Light, with the inside berth, simply blasted away from Accelerate and Javier Castellano was merely a passenger, as the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile winner moved into an unassailable lead, drawing further and further clear down the home stretch.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING At the line, the Michael McCarthy-trained City Of Light won by around seven lengths, with Seeking The Soul coming through on the inside to oust Accelerate of second place. Bravazo took fourth.

OISIN MURPHY’S GREAT FORM CONTINUES WITH UAE 1,000 GUINEAS PROCESSION ON SILVA Silva annihilated her rivals to continue Oisin Murphy’s terrific run of form, with victory in the Listed UAE 1,000 Guineas on the Meydan dirt.

The Pia Brandt trained filly was always up with the early pace, set by Lady Parma, before going on with 1 ½ furlongs to race.

From that point, the race was effectively over, as Silva strode further and further clear, eventually passing the winning post 9 ¾ lengths clear of Divine Image, with Lady Parma holding on for third.

Having been well beaten on her first two starts at Chantilly, the daughter of Kodiac had narrowly won a Deauville maiden in December, before heading out to Dubai.

ESTIHDAAF IMPRESSES IN THE UAE 2,000 GUINEAS

To the inside, Estihdaaf got the lead from Fintas and Mulfit, with Sporting Chance four-wide.

Sporting Chance continued to show good speed but Estihdaaf turned into the straight with the narrow lead, while Walking Thunder threatened.

Estihdaaf lengthened impressively when straightened up and Christophe Soumillon was able to push his mount along, drawing further clear of Walking Thunder, who had no answer.

The Saeed Bin Suroor runner passed the winning post a wide-margin winner from Walking Thunder, who lost his unbeaten record, with Red Cactus staying on for third, ahead of Sporting Chance.

NORTH AMERICA MUCH THE BEST AT MEYDAN North America was a bloodless winner again in the Group Two Al Maktoum Challenge Round 2 from Meydan.

Six went to post in this 9 ½ furlong race on the dirt.

North America was bustled up into the early lead and cornered ahead of Cosmo Charlie and New Trails.

Racing into the back, North America travelled well from the front, with Cosmo Charlie on his withers and then Etijaah and New Trails.

Estihdaaf routed his rivals from the front in the Group Three UAE 2,000 Guineas at Meydan.

A field of eight contested this one mile contest on the dirt, including the wildly impressive Walking Thunder.

From the gates it was Sporting Chance who led, but Fintas and Mulfit pressed on.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS The leader lengthened and quickly slipped four lengths clear approaching the home bend.

Richard Mullen asked North America to stretch and he simply pulverised his rivals, streaking clear.

However, his stride shortened in the final furlong and New Trails did perceptibly close, although the race was long won. Cosmo Charlie came home third.

BLUE POINT EMPHATIC ON HIS RETURNED Blue Point extolled all his class to land the Group Two Meydan Sprint on the Meydan turf.

Six went to post for this five-furlong contest, with Mujaafy and Faatinah showing good early speed.

Faatinah soon had the overall advantage, but with two furlongs to run, William Buick was poised on Blue Point.

Blue Point raced away in the final furlong for and eased down six-length success over Faatinah and Portamento.

MUNTAZAH STREAKS CLEAR IN THE FIREBREAK STAKES Muntazah was in a different league to his rivals in the Group Three Firebreak Stakes at Meydan.

Seven contested this one mile race on the dirt.

The veteran Heavy Metal, was quickly into stride with Muntazah to the outside, joined by Behavioral Bias.

Heavy Metal and Mickael Barzalona grabbed the inside rail, but Behioral Bias matched strides as they turned for home, with Muntazah soon emerging as a big threat.

Muntazah dwarfed Heavy Metal and powered clear in the home straight for an easy victory under Jim Crowley.

Secret Ambition got up for second, with Heavy Metal third.

POETIC CHARM TOO GOOD IN THE BALANCHINE

Image supplied by www.darelyeurope.com

Poetic Charm outclassed her rivals with a smooth victory in the Group Two Balanchine at Meydan.

Six lined-up for this nine-furlong race for fillies and mares.

However, Peri Lina reared up in the stalls and caused a delay, as she was momentarily trapped and had to be checked over by a vet before being given consent to race.

At the break it was Asoof, next to the inside rails, who led from Monza and Furia Cruzada.

Monza pressed on from Asoof, with Furia Cruzada sat a length behind the pair and then Peri Lina and Poetic Charm, with Mia Tesoro sat last.

Turning for home, Monza led narrowly from Asoof, with Furia Cruzada under pressure, while Poetic Charm cruised to the outside.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING Asoof went on, with but 1 ½ furlongs to race, Poetic Charm and William Buick swept serenely into the lead and went clear to complete the Cape Verdi-Balanchine double in dominant style.

Mia Tesoro got up for second, ahead of Peri Lina.

Poetic Charm was completing a treble on the card for trainer Charlie Appleby and jockey William Buick, after the earlier impressive victories of Blue Point and Art Du Val.

EXULTANT FINISH TO THE HONG KONG GOLD CUP

BEAUTY GENERATION IMPERIOUS IN SHA TIN Beauty Generation took his rival apart with another awesome performance in the Group One Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup at Sha Tin. Ten lined-up for this seven-furlong dash, with all eyes on the prolific winner Beauty Generation.

From the gates, Beauty Only was tardy away, while Beauty Generation was soon into his stride and disputed the running with Beat The Clock.

Beauty Generation soon moved two lengths clear of Beat The Clock, with Rattan and Conte further back.

Zac Purton bagged a quickfire Group One double as Exultant landed the Group One Citi Hong Kong Gold Cup at Sha Tin. Eleven contested this 1 ¼ mile race.

As the gates burst open, it was a relatively even break, with Simply Brilliant nudging to the lead.

From out wide, Time Warp pressed on from his brother Glorious Forever, with Simply Brilliant third and then Northern Superstar.

Time Warp continued to dictate the fractions, but Zac Purton pressed on with 3 ½ furlongs to run, sending Exultant to the lead.

He turned for home with Glorious Forever and Time Warp trying to close.

But Exultant went clear in the straight and while Southern Legend closed late on, it was never enough and the Tony Cruz 5 year-old was a clear cut winner.

Dinozzo just held of Simply Brilliant for third.

WINX MAKES IT 30 STRAIGHT WINS IN THE APOLLO STAKES Into the home straight, Beat The Clock was a persistent challenger, but Beauty Generation was never under strong drive from Zac Purton, to maintain his advantage - and sauntered to a sixth Group One success.

Conte was third, ahead of Rattan.

The John Moore trained six year-old was winning this race for the second successive year.

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Winx returned to the racetrack with a comfortable victory – making it 30 straight wins, in the Group Two Apollo Stakes at Randwick.

The seven year-old mare settled in fifth and began to make her move with a quarter of a mile to go, as jockey Hugh Bowman took closer order.

Then the turbos kicked in as reliably as ever – and with half a furlong to go, Winx hit the front and drew away.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS She passed the post a comfortable 2 ¼ lengths clear of Happy Clapper, with Egg Tart making it first and third for trainer Chris Waller.

The trainer said afterwards: “It is just a sense of relief, we take it so personally, she can’t tell us when she has had enough, we made the decision to push on a bit further, she is pretty good.

“I think today’s race was the most important, seeing her come back like that.

“The natural improvement will be there, two weeks’ time will be the plan, the Chipping Norton and last year we didn’t have the beauty of having a first-up run, she went straight into it, look out in two weeks’ time.”

Bowman added: “As the race unfolded we settled in to a lovely rhythm as we always do and it was a pretty comfortable race for me and it was pretty comfortable for Winx too,” the jockey said.

“I was able to just come out from behind Egg Tart and let her increase into the race without worrying about getting the leader.

“I was in pure control, well she was in pure control from the 600m when the pressure started to build.

“As we have seen at this distance previously, she can just be left flat footed (but) because of the even pace of the race it wasn’t the case today, when I went past Sam (Clipperton) I just really asked her to give her full effort and she let down.”

SPOTIFY MAKES MOST FOR DUBAI MILLENNIUM STAKES SUCCESSFUL Spotify showed guts aplenty to hold on in the Group Three Dubai Millennium Stakes at Meydan.

A field of eight went to post for this 1 ¼ mile race on the turf, with Godolphin responsible for six of them.

From the gates it was Muzdawaj away well with Racing History.

Settling down, Spotify and James Doyle led from Racing History and Oasis Charm, with Connect settled behind the leaders.

Spotify turned out of the back with a length

advantage and led into the home straight from Oasis Charm.

The leader responded well as Doyle asked for more effort early in the straight, pulling 1 ½ lengths clear.

Racing History closed late on and ate into the lead, but could never quite draw level, as Spotify just held on. First Nation stayed on for third.

DIVINE IMAGE OVERHAULS SWIFT ROSE FOR UAE OAKS TRIUMPHANT Charlie Appleby’s great Dubai Carnival continued as Divine Image got up late to win the Group Three UAE Oaks on the Meydan dirt.

Eleven fillies contested this 9 ½ furlong race.

At the break it was Divine Image and Silva who led in the charge to the first turn.

Settling down, Swift Rose went on from Silva, with Mulhima and Divine Image next.

Racing down the back, Hayley Turner and Swift Rose continued to set the fractions and took the field down the side, with half a mile to race.

Swift Rose kicked on as they turned for home, with Silva beaten and Razeena unable to close.

In the home straight, Swift Rose kept up the gallop bravely, but Divine Image and William Buick slowly bridged the gap.

In an agonising finish, Charlie Appleby’s Divine Image just got up to deny the game Swift Rose, while third home came Razeena and then Habah.

MYTHICAL MAGIC POUNCES FOR ZABEEL MILE VICTORY Mythical Magic and William Buick made it another big race treble for Charlie Appleby, with a decisive success in the Group Two Zabeel Mile at Meydan.

Nine went to post for this race on the turf.

At the off it was Top Score and First Contact who broke best, with the latter, racing wide, moving into the clear lead and tracked by Century Dream.

Top Score managed to get across to the inside, but was easily passed by Century Dream, approaching the home straight.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING Century Dream and Oisin Murphy were first into the straight, with Mythical Magic for company – and this pair drew clear.

Mythical Magic pressed on with a furlong to race and moved three lengths clear for an impressive win.

Century Dream, on his first start of the year, ran a belter in second, with First Contact third and then Wootton.

ISPOLINI EMPHATIC IN THE NAD AL SHEBA Ispolini was a ready winner of a race marred by a serious injury to Brundtland, in the Group Three Nad Al Sheba Trophy at Meydan.

Seven went to post for this 1 ¾ mile contest, a possible trial for the Dubai Gold Cup. Red Galileo took the field along from Brundtland, who raced wide, with Zamaam tucked in against the rail in third, as the field scrimmaged on the first bend.

Racing down the back, there was little change in the order, as Red Galileo led from Brundtland and Zamaam, with Bin Battuta next.

As the field left the back, William Buick moved Brundtland up to the leader’s withers, but disaster struck on the bend, as he broke down badly.

Red Galileo turned for home in front, but Mickael Barzalona came with a smooth run down the outside, on Ispolini, who had been held up.

Ispolini shot clear and went on to win by perhaps ten lengths from Red Galileo, with Bin Battuta just holding off Suspicious Mind for third.

This was a fine victory for the Charlie Appleby trained four year-old, but the trainer’s thoughts will have been very mixed after what happened to Brundtland.

WINX SETS A NEW WORLD RECORD FOR GROUP ONE VICTORIES Winx made it 31 straight victories and set a new world record as she landed her 23rd Group One success in the Chipping Norton Stakes at Randwick.

That eclipsed Hurricane Fly’s previous standard.

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Happy Clapper went clear and momentarily Winx’s long unbeaten run appeared under threat.

But the mare gradually breached the gap and went on to score by 1 ¾ lengths, with Unforgotten back in third.

Jockey Hugh Bowman said afterwards, “She is amazing, Blake (Shinn) really made it a test today, like Josh Parr did on Red Excitement once before but she can just cover all bases this mare, she is just an amazing athlete, there is no more words to describe her.

“I think today when you watch the replay, at the 700m, you would have thought she was out of business.

“Another jockey may have thought that, but I knew when I balanced up she was going to rally, there was no way Happy Clapper could sustain that speed and I knew that when she balanced up, she would have the energy required to reel him in.

“And I’ll be honest, although I was pushing her, she was doing it with relative ease, and I think if I would have struck her she would have found another couple of lengths for me.

“Blake is one of the few jockeys that will go out there and try and do something different, I actually anticipated he would try and go really slow and he probably realised he couldn’t win if he did that, he has done the opposite.

“With a small field, the opposition she is taking on, they are not all the best horses but the reality is the best horses won’t take her on.”

DRAFTED SCORES IN MEYDAN GROUP THREE Drafted got the better of an exciting scrap to land the Group Three Mahab Al Shimaal at Meydan.

Ten went to post for this six-furlong dash on the dirt.

Switzerland broke well while I Kirk was bustled up from the outside.

Turning into the home straight, Switzerland and Lavaspin vied for the lead and it was the former that went on.

With a furlong to race, Switzerland was challenged by a wall of horses, with Drafted, Nine

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS Below Zero and Tato Key swarming past him.

It was Drafted and Pat Dobbs who found the best turn of foot to beat Nine Below Zero by about half a length from Nine Below Zero, with Tato Key about the same distance back in third and Comoicas an eye-catching fourth.

DIVINE IMAGE A CLASS APART AT MEYDAN Divine Image completely outclassed her rivals as she stormed to victory with contemptuous ease in the Listed Al Bastikiya at Meydan.

A field of 14 three year-olds lined-up for this 9 ½ furlong contest on the dirt.

The Song Of John was pushed up into the lead as the field charged into the first bend.

Heading down the back, The Song Of John led from Superior and Grecko.

Into the home straight, Superior still led and was challenged by Manguzi, but the pair were covered by Divine Image all the time, as the trio pulled clear.

It was just a matter of time before Brett Doyle asked her for her effort and the UAE Oaks winner stormed clear to beat Superior by maybe seven lengths, with Manguzi third.

BLUE POINT TOO GOOD IN THE NAD AL SHEBA SPRINT Blue Point was far too good for his rivals in the Group Three Nad Al Sheba Turf Sprint at Meydan.

Eleven top class sprinters contested this sixfurlong race.

At the break it was Log Out Island who led with Faatinah and Ajwad soon taking up the running.

With two furlongs to race, there was a wideopen look to the race and it was Blue Point who stormed into the lead and went two lengths clear.

At the line, Blue Point was an impressive winner from Ekhtiyaar coming home second, while it was very close for third between Mazzini and Riflescope.

The Charlie Appleby trained Blue Point was making it two from two at this year’s Dubai Carnival.

MUNTAZAH SLAMS RIVALS IN THE BURJ NAHAAR Muntazah routed his rivals as he made all the running in the Group Three Burj Nahaar at Meydan.

Eleven ran in this one mile dirt contest.

At the off, Heavy Metal missed the break and was left three lengths adrift, as Muntazah and Good Curry set the tempo, tracked by Ibn Malik.

The front pair left the back and led Rodaini and Ibn Malik, as they turned into the home straight, where Muntazah went clear.

Racing down the home straight, Muntazah simply went further clear, winning by perhaps 12 lengths from Good Curry, with Musawaat third and then Heavy Metal, who had too much to do.

OLD PERSIAN EDGES TO DUBAI CITY OF GOLD GLORY Old Persian overcame adversity to win the Group Two Dubai City Of Gold at Meydan.

Ten older horses took park in this 1 ½ mile race on the turf.

Crowned Eagle broke well, but Racing History was soon in front.

Settling down, Racing History led Prince Of Arran and Old Persian, as the field headed into the back straight.

The order remained the same, as the field swung into the home straight, with Racing History challenged by Prince Of Arran, while further out, Desert Encounter travelled powerfully into contention.

Racing History stuck gamely to his guns and saw off the threat of Desert Encounter, but William Buick and Old Persian, struggling for room early in the straight, began to fly.

Old Persian made up the lost ground in the final furlong and inched up to Racing History, just getting up on the line. Desert Encounter came him third.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

CAPEZZANO MAKES ALL IN THE AL MAKTOUM CHALLENGE ROUND 3 Capezzano and Mickael Barzalona made all and saw off every rival with a decisive win in the Group One Al Maktoum Challenge Round 3 at Meydan.

Ten went to post for this 1 ¼ mile race on the dirt.

At the off it was Capezzano who led early on with Cosmo Charlie and Nordic Light next, as the field took the first bend and headed down the back.

Capezzano managed to get across from his wide draw to lead on the inside and he moved a couple of lengths clear of Thunder Snow and Nordic Light, with Cosmo Charlie next.

Capezzano left the back with Thunder Snow and Nordic Light for company and these three were clear.

The leader kept up the gallop on the home turn and saw off Thunder Snow impressively, drawing clear late on to win by eight lengths with Dolkong third.

DREAM CASTLE POWERS TO VICTORY IN THE JEBEL HATTA Dream Castle showed a super turn of foot to settle the argument in the Group One Jebel Hatta at Meydan.

A field of ten ran in this nine-furlong race on the turf.

As the race got underway, it was an even break, with the exception of Blair House, who lost ten lengths.

Settling down, First Contact led from Loxley and Century Dream, who was pulling hard, while Majestic Mambo raced to the inside.

First Contact left the back with a length lead over Loxley and Majestic Mambo, with Century Dream travelling better in fourth.

Into the straight, First Contact led by a couple of lengths, but down the outside, Dream Castle stormed home under Christophe Soumillon.

Saeed Bin Suroor’s Dream Castle powered away and whilst Wootton closed him late on, he was never

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going to go past.

First contact made it a Godolphin clean sweep, with Century Dream taking fourth.

FURORE TAKES THE HONG KONG DERBY Furore receved a fine ride from Hugh Bowman to capture the BMW Hong Kong Derby at Sha Tin. A field of 14 four year-olds contested this 1 ¼ mile race.

From the break it was Harmony Victory who led with Mr So And So and Mission Tycoon.

Settling down, Ka Ying Star led from Mission Tycoon and Mr So And So. There wasn’t much pace on, as Ka Ying Star took them to the five furlong mark, with Mission Tycoon close up.

On the home turn, Ka Ying Star led Mission Tycoon and Dark Dream, with Harmony Victory under pressure to the inside.

In the home straight, Kay Ying Star was challenged by Furore and Dark Dream, Sunny Speed and Waikuku coming late.

But Furore and Hugh Bowman kicked on and got first run, taking a length out of the field.

Late on, Waikuku, who had been held up, began to fly home.

However it was in vain, as Furora landed the Hong Kong Derby by about 1 ½ lengths, with Waikuku second, Sunny Speed third and Dark Dream fourth.

Ryan Moore was out of the places on Enrichment.

SOLEIL MARIN LEADS HOME AN ANDRE FABRE ONE-TWO IN THE PRIX EXBURY Soleil Marin got the better of his stable mate Magny Cours, to land the Group Three Prix Exbury at Saint-Cloud.

Nine took part in this 10 furlong race, which was contested in a blizzard last year.

The ground on this occasion was heavy, as the gates broke, with last year’s winner Air Pilot sent

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS straight to the front by Christophe Soumillon, but soon passed by Dolphin Vista.

Settling down, Dolphin Vista set a decent pace from Air Piolot, with Sacred Life to his outside and then came King Platin and Soleil Marin.

Racing to the home turn, Dolphin Vista led by a length from Sacred Life, with Air Pilot to the inside and then Soleil Marin, while Magny Cours moved to the outside.

Dolphin Vista tried to kick, but could not shake off his rivals, with Magny Cours and Soleil Marin going on for a Godolphin battle through the final furlong.

It was Soleil Marin and Pierre-Charles Boudot, who had the better turn of foot and went on to win by a length, with a three length gap back to Air Pilot in third and then came Sacred Life.

The result showed the well-being of the Andre Fabre string, as he recorded a one-two here.

Elizabeth II nd Stakes for her final career start.

Brutal came home second, with Dreamforce third.

Earlier on the card, Winx’s stable mate The Autumn Sun, held on grimly to land the Group One Rosehill Guineas, while the former Sir Michael Stoute inmate Midterm, was an impressive winner of the Group Three Manion Cup.

THUNDER SNOW MAKES IT BACK TO BACK WINS IN THE DUBAI WORLD CUP

WINX PURRS TO WIN 32 IN THE GEORGE RYDER STAKES Winx raced on her own and was in a class of her own as she landed the Group One The Agency George Ryder Stakes at Rosehill.

All eyes were on Winx on her penultimate race, as she aimed to extend her remarkable winning streak in this contest over 7 ½ furlongs.

Seven took on the mighty mare, on heavy ground.

As the race got underway, it was Dreamforce and Prompt Response who led early on, with the latter asserting, although racing wide. Winx was settled in seventh.

Dreamforce led Brutal by a length, with So Si Bon and Prompt Response next.

Heading to the final bend, Winx loomed up on the wide outside, with Dreamforce leading to the inside and challenged by Brutal.

But down the centre of the track, Hugh Bowman sat motionless and when he asked her for her effort, a furlong out, she easily picked up the winners and powered on to another emphatic victory.

The Chris Waller trained seven year-old, was winning her fourth George Ryder Stakes and her 32 consecutive race. She will head to the Queen

Image from www.godolphin.com

© racingfotos

Thunder Snow made history in Meydan, as he became the first horse to win back to back Dubai World Cups by the shortest of hair’s breadths.

North America set a strong pace, with Thunder Snow also vying for the lead through the early stages, while Capezzano was short of speed on the inside and Gronkowski also ran prominently.

Racing out of the back, Gronkowski pressed on from North America, with Thunder Snow biding his time behind the two.

North America was under pressure on the home bend and quickly folded, as the race developed into a match between Gronkowski, who had first run – and Thunder Snow.

The two fought neck and neck through the final quarter of a mile and Thunder Snow just got his nostril in front, before Oisin Murphy and Gronkowski came back at him, right on the line.

After a photo finish, Thunder Snow was declared the winner. Gunnevera took third place.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

A SUMMARY OF THE REST OF DUBAI WORLD CUP EVENING AMERICAN COAL FIRES IN DUBAI The Todd Pletcher trained Coal Front got up in the shadow of the post to land the Godolphin Mile, the opening big race on Dubai World Cup evening.

Thirteen went to post for this race on the Meydan Turf and the veteran Heavy Metal was quickly into stride, with Coal Front, Muntazah and Good Curry.

Heavy Metal, with the inside rail, set the tempo throughout, with Muntazah keeping close tabs on his old rival.

Into the home straight, Heavy Metal kicked clear and Muntazah had no answer.

From further back, Jose Ortiz Jr. galvanized Coal Front who closed down the leader inside the final furlong and edged in front right on the line.

It gave Ortiz and Pletcher maiden victories at Meydan.

Muntazah was the big disappointment, fading, but holding on for third, just ahead of Kinbear.

MORE CUP GLORY FOR CROSS COUNTER Melbourne Cup winner Cross Counter, added the Dubai Gold Cup to his resume after a gripping battle with fellow Godolphin runner Ispolini.

Ten lined-up for this two-mile contest and for much of the race, Red Galileo and Prince Of Arran dictated the pace.

However, leaving the back straight, William Buick moved Cross Counter into a challenging position on the outside, while Ispolini got a lovely run to the inside.

The pair shot clear in the home straight and battled all the way to the line, drawing clear.

Late on, the Charlie Appleby trained Cross Counter got the better of the argument to win by about a length, with Ispolini a gallant second, a couple of lengths clear of the staying on Call the Wind.

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BLUE POINT SHOWS CONSUMMATE CLASS Blue Point took his time to hit the front but was always in control as he landed the Group One Al Quoz Sprint at Meydan.

Thirteen went to post for this six furlong contest, with Belvoir Bay taking the field along from Caribou Club and Sands Of Mali.

However, William Buick was in the box seat in behind the leaders and gradually picked up the pace as the race entered its final two furlongs.

Belvoir Bay put up a fight, but Buick was less active than his counterpart and Blue Point smoothly made progress to hit the front inside the final furlong and move away for a comfortable length, with Stormy Liberal taking third.

This result got Charlie Appleby and Buick off to the perfect evening, following Cross Counter’s earlier victory.

AMERICAN FORM UPHELD AGAIN IN THE UAE DERBY Plus Que Parfait continued the fine run of North American form on Dubai World Cup night, as she secured a hard fought victory in the Group Two UAE Derby.

Fourteen contested this 9 ½ furlong race on the dirt, with the Godolphin runner Swift Rose, taking them along from Stubbins and Manguzi.

Racing to the home turn, Swift Rose was pressed

by Manguzi, while Plus Que Parfait and Gray Magician began to make their moves.

In the home straight, Manguzi took a slender lead, but was flanked by Plus Que Parfait to the inside and Gray Magician to the outside, with the trio all in with a chance inside the final furlong.

But it was Plus Que Parfait and Jose Ortiz Jr. who gained the day from Gray Magician and Manguzi, as North American trained horses ran first and second.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS

X Y JET LANDS THE GOLDEN SHAHEEN X Y Jet blasted from the gates and was never passed, as he landed the Group One Golden Shaheen at Meydan.

Nine took part in this six furlong race on the dirt.

X Y Jet broke well and was taken on by Matera Sky and Imperial Hint, as the pace was frenetic.

Turning for home, X Y Jet still led, with Matera Sky on his coattails and then a gap, as the race materialised into a match.

X Y Jet kept on gamely and won by 1 ½ lengths from Matera Sky, with Imperial Hint taking third.

ALMOND EYE STRIKES FOR JAPAN IN DUBAI Japanese superstar filly Almond Eye, performed on the international stage to land the Group One Dubai Turf at Meydan.

An international field of thirteen went to post for this nine furlong contest on the turf.

Southern Legend was away well, with Century Dream and Dream Castle.

Century Dream took control up front, chased by Without Parole and Dream Castle, with Wootton next.

Turning for home, Century Dream held a twolength lead over Without Parole, with Dream Castle and Wootton next, while Almond Eye began to close.

Almond Eye soon struck the lead and was ridden out to beat Vivlos by a length, with Lord Glitters third and then Deirdre, as Japanese horses filled first, second and fourth.

OLD PERSIAN STORMS TO GLORY IN THE DUBAI SHEEMA CLASSIC Old Persian put himself firmly in the frame for major global middle distance prizes this season, with a resounding victory in the Group One Longines Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan.

Eight ran in this 1 ½ mile contest, with Magic Wand the early pacesetter with stable mate Hunting

Horn, although Ray De Oro was soon bustled up to lead.

As they headed down the back straight, Ray De Oro had a two-length break over Magic Wand, with Hunting Horn and Old Persian racing together, ahead of Racing History.

Leaving the back, Ray De Oro still led Magic Wand, while Old Persian was a little short of room to the inside.

William Buick made his move for room on the home turn and once into the clear, sped forward into the lead by two lengths.

Cheval Grand and Suave Richard both tried hard to close the gap, but Old Persian was too good and held on by a couple of lengths, with his pursuers maintaining their order.

Maximum Security blasts to Florida Derby victory Maximum Security dominated the Grade One Xpressbet Florida Derby, from start to finish at Gulfstream Park.

A field of 11 three year-olds, lined-up for this important Kentucky Derby Trial, over 9 furlongs.

At the gates it was Maximum Security who led into the first turn from Bodexpress and Garter And Tie. Maximum Security led them into the back stretch with a length lead from Bodexpress, with Hidden Scroll moving up the inside in third, ahead of Union’s Destiny.

Reaching the top of the stretch, Maximum Security had plenty of horses under pressure and turned for home with a widening margin and Bodexpress trying hard to make an impression.

But Maximum Security won easily, with Bodexpress second and Code Of Honor staying on for a remote third.

The unbeaten son of New Year’s Day looks a bona fide Kentucky Derby contender.

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FEATURE TATTERSALLS CRAVEN BREEZE UPS

Image supplied by www.tattersalls.com

TATTERSALLS CRAVEN BREEZE UPS When did the Tattersalls Craven Breeze Ups first begin?

The first breeze up sale at Tattersalls was in 1989. It was just called the Tattersalls Breeze Up Sale then but has always been during the Craven meeting.

How has the Sale evolved and grown over time (in terms of number of horses and financial turnover)?

In terms of numbers of lots offered, it hasn’t changed that much, but the turnover has risen significantly as buyers have become more confident that they can buy a good horse out of the sale. The turnover quadrupled from 2001 to 2006 and has stayed roughly at that level since, although it’s jumped up again another 30% in the last two years to 13-14m guineas.

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Which Breeze Up horses have been the biggest successes in their subsequent careers?

There have been plenty of Group/Grade 1 winners to come out of the sale, most recently the Grade 1 Natalma Stakes winner La Pelosa and the Group 1 Prix Maurice de Gheest winner Brando. Other G1 winners have included Contributer, Ventura Storm, Garswood, Rosdhu Queen and Rio De La Plata.

Has the equine flu virus outbreak caused any disruption to plans?

Thankfully no. We naturally have kept a close eye on proceedings but there have been no disruptions. Any horses coming to Tattersalls are required to have vet certs and are required to have received their flu shots.

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TATTERSALLS CRAVEN BREEZE UPS FEATURE What work goes on “behind the scenes” to make the Breeze Ups such a success and when does this typically begin?

Nominations for the both the Craven and the Guineas Breeze Up sales close in mid-December and we then go and visit these horses and allocate them to the sale that we think will best suit them. We then finalise the pedigree in consultation with the vendor before pulling the catalogue together and printing the catalogue. Once we have a catalogue, we then start the process of attracting buyers to the sales, via international visits, advertising and catalogue distribution.

Image supplied by www.tattersalls.com

“

How many horses do you anticipate taking part in this year’s sale?

“Turnover has risen significantly as buyers have become more confident that they can buy a good horse out of the sale”

We have catalogued 147 lots into the Craven Breeze Up Sale this year.

Tell me about the £15,000 Craven Breeze Up Bonus – what was the inspiration behind this concept and how will it work?

We have been delighted with how well the £25,000 Tattersalls October Book 1 Bonus has been received by buyers at October Book 1 and the Craven Breeze Up Sale was the obvious other sale that we could launch a similar incentive. It is open to any horse purchased at the Craven Breeze Up Sale, with entries only costing £1,000 and the winning connections pocketing £15,000 if their horse wins a Class 2, 3 or 4 Maiden of Novice in Britain, or an Open Maiden in Ireland within the dates specified in the catalogue.

2018 delivered some spectacular results for Tattersalls – how much of a challenge is it to follow what happened?

“

Both 2017 and 2018 have been spectacular years in terms of turnover, but our challenges each year are the same and that is to attract the best bloodstock available to each of our sales and to find buyers for those horses at all levels of the market. The yearling sales were especially exciting in 2018, with fourteen million guineas yearlings and the highest price in the world for the seventh successive year, both of which will be hard acts to follow. However, we will soon start the process of inspecting the yearling entries for this year and hope that Book 1 will once again provide the cream of the European yearlings to come to market.

Is Brexit and economic uncertainty causing any consternation or is it simply changing the locations of clientele, on the basis of exchange rates?

Image supplied by www.tattersalls.com

It is difficult to estimate what the effect of Brexit is or will be, but the uncertainly at the moment probably helps no one.

One of the short-term benefits has been the devaluation of sterling which has made it cheaper for overseas based buyers to buy in Britain. The biggest concern is the movement of horses which is integral to the British, Irish and French industries, and we look forward to resolving any issues which may arise with help from DEFRA and the TBA.

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FEATURE TATTERSALLS CRAVEN BREEZE UPS Are there any new stallion progeny you are particularly looking forward to this year?

It looks an especially exciting group of first season sires that are represented in the Craven Breeze Up Sale including the US Triple Crown winner American Pharaoh, the 2,000 Guineas winners Gleneagles and Night of Thunder, the Derby winner Golden Horn and the Champion Sprinter Muhaarar.

What are your main hopes for 2019 and what are you most looking forward to?

I hope that the demand for top quality bloodstock continues.

On the racing front I love seeing the three-year-old crop develop and seeing who the top colts and fillies are.

Image supplied by www.tattersalls.com

How can people get involved or view the Breeze Up Sales?

Catalogues are available from Tattersalls and Tattersalls representatives and also online at www.tattersalls.com. The breeze and the sale will be streamed live on Sale Day Live on our website and all breezes will be available to be viewed on our website shortly after the breeze is completed. The breeze will also be shown live on Racing TV. NEWMARKET RACECOURSES AND TATTERSALLS EXPAND PARTNERSHIP Newmarket Racecourses has announced that it has agreed a new three-year partnership with Tattersalls that will see Europe’s leading thoroughbred auction house expand its sponsorship portfolio at the Home Of Horseracing.

The new agreement will see Tattersalls increase their

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presence at the prestigious Moët & Chandon July Festival, not only continuing their support of the Group 1 Tattersalls Falmouth Stakes for fillies and mares but adding the Group 2 Tattersalls July Stakes, for two-year-old colts and geldings, and the Group 2 Princess Of Wales’s Tattersalls Stakes, a 12-furlong contest for three-year-olds and upwards.

Last year’s July Stakes went the way of Advertise, a subsequent Group 1 winner and leading QIPCO 2000 Guineas hopeful this spring for trainer Martyn Meade and owner Phoenix Thoroughbreds, while the Princess Of Wales’s Stakes has in recent seasons gone the way of Group 1 stars such as Hawkbill and the recently-retired fan favourite Big Orange.

The new deal will see Tattersalls continue its support of the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes (registered as the Somerville Tattersall Stakes), for two-year-old colts and geldings, and the £150,000 Tattersalls October Auction Stakes, both taking place at the Rowley Mile as part of the Gold Season.

Tattersalls, the oldest bloodstock auctioneers in the world, will also continue to host its Craven and Guineas BreezeUps at the Rowley Mile in April and May respectively.

Amy Starkey, Regional Director of Jockey Club Racecourses, East Region, said: “Newmarket Racecourses and Tattersalls are not only neighbours but world leaders in their fields and so it is only right that we should enjoy a fruitful partnership for the benefit of the town of Newmarket as a whole.

“We are delighted that Tattersalls have elected not only to maintain their existing sponsorships at Newmarket Racecourses but to expand their portfolio and we look forward to watching some of the world’s best horses compete for the five prestigious Tattersalls-sponsored prizes during the next three years.”

Edmond Mahony, Chairman of Tattersalls, said: “The Group 1 Tattersalls Falmouth Stakes is the flagship Tattersalls race sponsorship in Britain and we are delighted to extend our support of Newmarket Racecourses’ Moët & Chandon July Festival by adding two such prestigious Group 2 races to our extensive sponsorship portfolio.

“July Week in Newmarket is one of the highlights of the European racing and bloodstock sales calendar, combining the hugely international Tattersalls July Sale with three days of outstanding racing and our sponsorship of the Group 2 Tattersalls July Stakes and the Group 2 Princess Of Wales’s Tattersalls Stakes reinforces our commitment not only to Newmarket Racecourses, but also to supporting British racing in as many ways as we can.”

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C £1 no ra ve 5,0 w fea n 00 tur Br in ee Tat g th t ze er e Up sal Bo ls nu s

best results best rewards more 2018 2YO Group Winners than any other European Breeze Up Sale

QUEEN OF BERMUDA Firth Of Clyde Stakes, Gr. 3

LA PELOSA Natalma Stakes, Gr. 1

now featuring the £15,000 Tattersalls Craven Breeze Up Bonus “The prospect of winning a £15,000 bonus makes the Craven Sale more enticing than ever.” Ed Dunlop “We’ve always been very lucky at the breeze ups and we bought our Group 1 winner Brando at the Tattersalls Craven Breeze Up Sale.

The new Craven Breeze Up Bonus should prove to be a hugely attractive incentive for owners.” Kevin Ryan

Europe’s Leading Breeze Up Sale

Craven Breeze Up Sale April 15 –17

T: +44 1638 665931 sales@tattersalls.com www.tattersalls.com

FEATURE NEWMARKET RACECOURSE

Newmarket gears up for an exciting 2019

O

n Tuesday, April 16th, the 2019 Turf Flat Season ramps up a gear as Newmarket stages the opening day of its three-day Craven Meeting.

Course-Specialist was privileged to catchup with Amy Starkey, Regional Director for the Jockey Club East, to learn what goes on behind the scenes and what is new on the Rowley Mile for this year.

When does the Craven Meeting take place in 2019?

We are all very excited about the return of racing to the Rowley Mile this spring and the recent warm weather has only served to aid preparations and build excitement. This year’s bet365 Craven Meeting once again takes place over three days, from Tuesday 16th to Thursday 18th April.

Why did the meeting revert to three days and how important is it that ITV Racing now covers this meeting once again?

The return to three days came about simply due to popular demand – our customers and the industry love the three-

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day format. The meeting may come hot on the heels of the Grand National but there can be no doubt that it represents the return of high-class Flat racing, and so it is great news for racing fans across the country that ITV carries live coverage of the key races on Tuesday and Wednesday.

When does Newmarket start preparations for the Craven Meeting, in terms of operations, ground management, recruitment and marketing?

Racing may only take place at Newmarket Racecourses from April to November but our team are busy the whole year round. Planning how we will promote, prepare for and then deliver our events is an ongoing process, which starts months and months in advance. It’s a year-round cycle.

Delivering racing fixtures and events that meet with the standards racegoers expect when they visit a Jockey Club racecourse requires thorough planning and I am proud of the team, who are dedicated to being the best they can be. Having worked on the plans with the team throughout the winter, it’s exciting to think that the new season is just around the corner.

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NEWMARKET RACECOURSE FEATURE And also for the Breeze-up Sales?

I am delighted to say that we recently agreed a new threeyear partnership deal with Tattersalls, which includes the use of the Rowley Mile for their Craven and Guineas breeze-up sales. As our neighbours, we enjoy a strong relationship with Tatersalls and all our industry stakeholders in Newmarket and we enjoy working together as a team to deliver part of the sales process and more.

How does the atmosphere change at Newmarket in the build-up to the Craven Meeting? Do things suddenly become a lot busier?

There is no better place in the world than Newmarket as the industry builds to the start of the flat season and the Craven Meeting. The sense of excitement, anticipation and hope is palpable and it’s a great place to live and work.

The town itself takes on a totally different complexion as the days begin to get longer and once we get into February, the obvious difference is in the number of horses moving around the town as the work mornings get busier and busier.

At the racecourse, things ramp up and once the season begins, we are very busy throughout the campaign. Even the gaps in our fixture list, as we switch from the Rowley Mile to the July Course and back again, are packed, with our estates and operations teams working incredibly hard to ensure the two venues consistently meet our high standards.

The last 20 years has seen a change in the attitude of some top trainers of Guineas winners, preferring to go straight to the race.

How much of a challenge has this been in ensuring the Craven Stakes and Nell Gwyn Stakes provide serious Guineas contenders?

What initiatives does Newmarket take in ensuring top stables run their Guineas horses at the Craven Meeting?

The Craven Stakes has performed very well in recent seasons in terms of acting as a stepping stone to the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas. Masar finished third in the Guineas following his win last year and, of course, went on to land the Investec Derby. Roaring Lion meanwhile, who finished third in the Craven and fifth in the Guineas, enjoyed an amazing summer, winning four Group 1s and being crowned Cartier Horse of the Year.

A number of high-class horses have run in and won the race in recent years, so I am confident that the race is attractive

enough for trainers to be sending some of their very best to compete in it.

While the Lanwades Stud Stakes, unlike the Craven, does carry a Group 1 penalty, it too has performed well in recent times, with the three-year average rating for its winners a touch over 106.

Are there any changes to the running order of this year’s Craven Meeting?

The late falling of Easter in 2019 has led to some changes to the Craven Meeting’s running order this year, with ITV Racing broadcasting only on Tuesday and Wednesday, in order to allow them to cover racing on Good Friday. Full details of the updated schedule can be found on our website but the most significant sees the bet365 Craven Stakes switch from the Thursday to the Wednesday, so that it can be broadcast by ITV. The normal structure of the meeting will resume in 2020.

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“We are all very excited about the return of racing to the Rowley Mile this spring and the recent warm weather has only served to aid preparations and build excitement”

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FEATURE NEWMARKET RACECOURSE

Aside from racing, what other attractions will there be for the public at this year’s meeting?

This year’s meeting falls in the Easter school holidays, so we are expecting plenty of families to take the opportunity to enjoy the start of spring at the Rowley Mile. Alongside the racing there will be plenty of activity for families to enjoy.

How much work takes place between the Craven and Guineas Meetings, given footfall is so much greater at the Guineas Meeting?

A huge amount of work goes into all meetings that we stage at Newmarket. The planning cycle is ongoing and the team constantly strive to make improvements and introduce new initiatives at all our fixtures which will appeal to our diverse group of customers.

I am proud of how the customer experience has improved for our racegoers in recent years at both courses, which in turn has been rewarded with more people enjoying both the Craven and The QIPCO Guineas Festival. Alongside delivering the best racing, in the best facilities, we need to always improve the experience for our visitors to enjoy.

Are there any major new sponsors at Newmarket this year?

Our portfolio of sponsors has seen significant improvement in recent years and we are proud that we have strong relationship with many partners, including Darley, QIPCO and Juddmonte to name a few.

We welcome a number of partnership extensions this year including Tattersalls and Adnams.

Has there been any investment in infrastructure ahead of 2019 on the Rowley Mile or July Courses?

Visitors to the Rowley Mile this season will notice some changes to the parade ring, while we have continued with

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work that began last year to improve the public address system.

We have also installed LED lighting and PIR sensors to the fourth floor of the Millennium Grandstand in our continued commitment to reduce our carbon footprint.

Tell me about Newmarket Racecourse’s/The Jockey Club’s commitment to local education – what initiatives are planned for 2019?

Newmarket Racecourses offers a number of exciting learning opportunities for young people in our community. Our Under Starter’s Orders Primary School Education Project, which affords pupils the chance to experience the inner workings of the racing and breeding industries, is delivered over a series of days with the help of key local partners. The scheme aims to create aspiration through engaging young people with the history and heritage of the community in which they live. Likewise, Dubai Future Champions Education Week seeks to raise the employment aspirations and expectations of Newmarket Academy students within and beyond the racing industry.

Tell me about the Newmarket Nights – what are the highlight acts signed so far?

The July Course has a reputation not only as a home to worldclass racing but as a stage for some of the biggest names in music and we are excited about our line-up of shows for 2019.

Our most recent announced was Years & Years, who will make their Newmarket Nights debut on Friday 16th August.

One of the biggest British music success stories of the decade, I’m sure they will put on a fantastic show.

Full details of our line-up of live acts for 2019 can be found at www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk.

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NEWMARKET RACECOURSE FEATURE For the community as a whole, the shows represent an opportunity to see world-class performers that people may otherwise have to travel many miles to enjoy, and bring important business not only to the racecourse but the town as a whole.

What are your main hopes and aims for 2019?

First and foremost, I hope to enjoy 39 meetings free of injury for all our participants, equine and human, because without the sacrifice they make for our enjoyment, this wonderful sport we love would not be possible.

I hope that on the track, we see champions crowned in our Classics and other Group 1 races, I hope the stars of tomorrow emerge, particularly at the Dubai Future Champions Festival, and I hope all owners and trainers who race at Newmarket this year enjoy a memorable and enjoyable experience with us.

I hope too that all of our visitors have unforgettable days out at our two wonderful racecourses.

How can people book tickets for the Craven and Guineas Meetings?

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“This year’s meeting falls in the Easter school holidays, so we are expecting plenty of families to take the opportunity to enjoy the start of spring at the Rowley Mile”

Tickets are available online or over the phone, by calling 0344 579 3010. For group bookings, call 01638 675 500 and select option four. If you are attending multiple days of the two meetings then Annual Membership is well worth considering. With guaranteed entry to all 39 of our racedays in 2019, regardless of sell-outs, plus access to private facilities on-course, it is essential for all racing enthusiast.

For more information please visit: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/newmarket/

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What percentage of Newmarket’s turnover do these evenings contribute over the year?

The Newmarket Nights and Summer Saturday Live concerts are an important part of our offering every year, alongside all of our major festivals and racedays. The shows have become hugely popular and offer something different for regular racegoers, as well as attracting those who may not have been racing before to come and give the sport a try. course-specialist.co.uk

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FEATURE BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES

THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES RETURNS

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ewmarket stages the first Classic of 2019, when the Qipco 2,000 Guineas takes centre stage on Saturday, May 4th.

That date also signifies the launch of the 2019 Qipco British Champions Series, which runs through to Ascot on Saturday, October 19th.

The Series was launched in 2011 and aims to define the elite racehorses in a number of divisions, through the traditional major flat races.

The Series comprises of five championship categories, namely Sprint, Mile, Middle Distance, Long Distance and Fillies & Mares.

Each category features the seven highest-rated races in that category and brings together the finest horses, jockeys and trainers to compete for the sport’s most prestigious prizes.

THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES MILE The Mile Series gets underway with the Qipco 2,000 Guineas and since its inception, has seen outstanding winners such as Frankel, Camelot, Dawn Approach, Gleneagles, Galileo Gold, Churchill and Saxon Warrior.

Two races (Locking Stakes and Queen Anne Stakes) are exclusive to older milers and have produced Farrh, Ribchester, Toronado and overseas stars Solow and Tepin.

The three year-old colts again take centre stage in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, where Kingman and Barney Roy have also added their names into British Champions Series history.

THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES SPRINT A host of world class sprinters have taken part in the Sprint Series.

Among the star names have been Sole Power, Muhaarar, Caravaggio, Australian superstar Black Caviar, Lethal Force, Harry Angel, Mecca’s Angel, Marsha, Dream Ahead, The Tin Man and Gordon Lord Byron.

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World Champion 3yo

Champion Older Miler

£40,000 Oct 1st SLF

£8,500 Oct 1st SLF

Record Breaking Champion First Season Sire in AUS

Leading First Season Sire in GB 2018

Champion First Season Sire in GB 2017

£17,500 Oct 1st SLF

£15,000 Oct 1st SLF

£7,000 Oct 1st SLF

£25,000 Oct 1st SLF

First 2yos 2019

To find out more about the Qatar Racing stallions visit www.tweenhills.com Contact Hannah Wall or Alex Lowe at Tweenhills on T: +44 (0) 1452 700177 E: alex@tweenhills.com

FEATURE BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES From Glorious Goodwood, the generations converge and those championship races have been won by many of the above horses, going to to underline their qualities against allcomers. The Gurkha, Sky Lantern and Laurens have all made their mark.

The Series concludes with Ascot’s Queen Elizabeth Ilnd Stakes which again features many of the above names. Adding further lustre to the roll of honour are Olympic Glory, Charm Spirit, Minding and Roaring Lion.

THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES MIDDLE DISTANCE Once again, this division starts off with an early focus on different generations and concludes with the big races in which the generations clash.

Horses of the calibre of St Nicholas Abbey, Cirrus Des Aigle, Postponed, Highland Reel and Cracksman made their mark in the Coronation Cup, for older horses. The Prince Of Wales’s Stakes has produced So You Think, The Fugue, Al Kazeem, Free Eagle and Poet’s Word.

The Investec Derby for three year-olds, has delivered Camelot, Australia, Golden Horn and Masar.

The clash of the generations has then defined the middle distance champion.

Other stellar names in this division include: Nathaniel, Mukhadram, Hawkbill, Ulysses, Roaring Lion, Danedream, Taghrooda, Almanzor and Juddmonte Farms’ outstanding performers Frankel and dual Arc heroine Enable.

THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES LONG DISTANCE The Long Distance British Champions Series commences in mid-May at York’s Dante Meeting, with the Yorkshire Cup. It takes in all the big Cup races, with the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot the high point, along with the recently Group Oneestablished Goodwood Cup and the St Leger at Doncaster.

Winners in this division include: Snow Sky, Dartmouth, Estimate, Leading Light, Order Of St George, Big Orange, Brown Panther, Cavalryman, Max Dynamite, Times Up, Sheikhzayedroad, Kingston Hill, Simple Verse, Harbour Law, Capri, Kew Gardens, Right Of Passage and Stradivarius.

THE QIPCO BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES FILLIES & MARES The Qipco British Champions Series Fillies & Mares is another division that begins with a generational split.

Image supplied by Steven Cargill

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BRITISH CHAMPIONS SERIES FEATURE

Image supplied by HRI

© Grossick Racing Photos

For the three year-olds, it commences with the Qipco 1,000 Guineas, the Investec Oaks and the Coronation Stakes, with winners including: Sky Lantern, Miss France, Legatissimo, Minding, Winter, Taghrooda and Enable, Rizeena, Ervedya and Alpha Centauri.

The older fillies and mares come into the fray from July, with the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket.

From that point, the generations mix and the races in this series have produced: Elusive Kate, Integral, Amazing Maria, Alice Springs, Roly Poly, The Fugue, Wild Illusion, Shareta, Tapestry, Seventh Heaven, Sea Of Class, Hydrangea and Magical.

In 2019, the Series will will take place over 26 racedays, covering the biggest races at Ascot, Doncaster, Epsom Downs, Goodwood, Haydock Park, Newbury, Newmarket’s July Course, Newmarket’s Rowley Mile, Sandown Park and York.

It encompasses all of British Flat racing’s key festivals, including the QIPCO Guineas Festival, the Investec Derby Festival, Royal Ascot, the Moët & Chandon July Festival, Qatar Goodwood Festival, the Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor Festival and the Ladbrokes St Leger Meeting.

For more information, please visit: www.britishchampionsseries.com

TEN OF THE BEST: Frankel Enable Muhaarar Roaring Lion Taghroodah Postponed Golden Horn Minding Winter Cracksman

© Steven Cargill

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FEATURE NEWBURY RACECOURSE

NEWBURY GREENHAM MEETING

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ewbury Racecourse has undergone considerable transition over the past few years. Course Specialist recently caught up with Harriet Collins, Marcomms and Sponsorship Director at Newbury, to find out how the Berkshire course is shaping up, ahead of the 2019 Flat Season.

Along with the paddock and hotel, what other work has taken place?

The Rocking Horse Nursery and The Estates Yard were some of the first works to be completed following on from the Stables Yard.

One of the other key developments was The Owners Club, which was Highly Recommended for Operational Excellence at the 2018 RCA Showcase awards last year. Opened in November 2017, we have been delighted with the response from owners, trainers and connections. There are always

When did the redevelopment work commence at Newbury?

The first Phase of the of the work began in 2013, with the redevelopment of the stable yard. From the initial planning to where we are today, it will be about 10years in total from planning to completion.

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NEWBURY RACECOURSE FEATURE

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There has been upward of £20Million spent on the redevelopment which is now almost complete. The viewing around the parade ring and winner’s enclosure has seen significant improvements.

“ Has the redevelopment opened new revenue streams for the racecourse?

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improvements to be made but we have really tried to think about what owners want from the moment they arrive at the racecourse and the fact you can see both the pre-parade and parade ring from the 200-seater restaurant is quite a feature.

How much investment has been made in the facilities and how does the racing crowd benefit?

There has been upward of £20Million spent on the redevelopment of the site which is now almost complete. The viewing around the parade ring and winner’s enclosure has seen significant improvements made, the benefits of which we hope, are already being enjoyed by both racegoers as well as owners, trainers and jockeys. The steppings enable racegoers to get closer to the action, whilst the safety inside the paddock has been improved. We have also installed a new wash downarea outside of the parade ring for horses that finish outside of the top four which has been a big improvement.

The redevelopment has considered each customer during the redevelopment process be it the horse, owner, trainer, stable staff member and racegoer.

Although the capacity of the racecourse hasn’t changed post development, it has hugely improved the appeal of some of the spaces and in turn opened up new revenue streams.

The addition of The Owners Club has given our Conference and Events team an additional space which is ideal for weddings and private dinners seating 200 people.

Most of our hospitality boxes have also been refurbished. The Lodge, which was built for stable staff accommodation on racedays has also opened up a new revenue stream for the racecourse, on a non raceday it lends itself as a hotel for a number of corporate guests which serves visitors to Newbury.

The development of the stables yards also added 25 new stables. We also have onsite nursery which has capacity for 127 children in a state-of-the-art facility.

Is the redevelopment work complete now or are there other projects to undertake?

Most of the redevelopment is now complete although there are still a few areas which require further work, including the Pall Mall building as well new areas for our Annual Members.

There will be a new bar which is due to open later in the Summer called The Stables, it sits where the old Saddling boxes were and still has many of its original features.

A big thanks must go to all our customers who have been very patient while all the works have been going on around them and we hope those who visit us this year are impressed by the new site and keep coming back.

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FEATURE NEWBURY RACECOURSE

How important in the Newbury calendar is the Greenham Meeting and how much of a challenge is it to attract the leading Guineas candidates to Berkshire rather than Newmarket?

How can people secure their place at this prestigious meeting?

As the first meeting of our flat season, the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials meeting is always a fascinating two days. Falling relatively early in the season, especially this year, we are always treated so some exciting performances and inklings of stardom.

2018 saw Lah Ti Dar win her maiden as well as other eyecatching performances from the likes of Defoe and Expert Eye. Runners in a number of races across the two days and in particular the Group 3 Watership Down Stud Greenham Stakes and the Group 3 Dubai Duty Free Stakes (Registered as The Fred Darling Stakes) will often go on and perform well throughout the season.

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We are always treated so some exciting performances and inklings of stardom

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How big a crowd will you be aiming for at the Greenham?

Always a popular meeting as the Flat returns to Newbury, we would expect over 8,000 racegoers on Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials Saturday, featuring the Watership Down Stud Greenham Stakes.

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Tickets can be purchased via our website: www. newburyracecourse.co.uk or by calling the racecourse on 01635 40015. Group tickets are available with good discounts.

Two award-winning restaurants with fantastic views of the course, and stunning private hospitality suites that offer raceday experiences that suit all budgets and requirements with prices from £99.

What else are you looking forward to at Newbury during 2019?

As a dual-purpose course, offering 29 racedays a year across both the Flat and Jumps season, there really is something for everyone and we would encourage anyone looking for a fun day out to come and see us. We are incredibly lucky to have a train station just a 2-minute walk from the track and 30mins from Reading which makes it very accessible from so many areas.

For the first time this year, the Al Shaqab Lockinge will also feature our Ladies Day on Saturday 18th May. This day will be full of style and class, and will fit perfectly alongside our richest race, the Group 1 Al Shaqab Lockinge and it would be brilliant to see Laurens line up in the race and make it a second year in a row that a filly wins the races.

Jumping returns to Newbury in November with our Ladbrokes Winter Carnival taking prime position on Friday 29th November and Saturday 30th November. The highlight of two days of top-class jumping action is the Ladbrokes Trophy, formerly the Hennessy Gold Cup, which features on the Saturday. Former winners of the race include a total of nine horses who have gone onto win the Cheltenham Gold Cup, most notably Denman in 2007 and 2009 and

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SPRING TRIALS WEEKEND FRIDAY 12 & SATURDAY 13 APRIL

F EAT U R I N G T H E

BEER FEST VAL 2019

BE E RS • A L ES • CIDER S • LIVE M U S IC

01635 40015 newburyracecourse.co.uk

#DDFSpringTrials

FEATURE NEWBURY RACECOURSE

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

Native River in 2016. Many Clouds became the first horse to win both the Hennessy Gold Cup and the Grand National in 2014 and 2015 respectively and he is marked at the racecourse with the Many Clouds Bar which was opened by Oliver Sherwood last year.

BIG RACE HISTORY AT THE SPRING FESTIVAL

DUBAI DUTY FREE JOHN PORTER STAKES The Group Three Dubai Duty Free John Porter Stakes is named after one of Britain’s greatest trainers and one of the founders of Newbury Racecourse.

Contested over 1 ½ miles, the race was established in 1928 and boasts quite a roll of honour. It often features some of the best older middle distance horses that have stayed in training, offering clues for Royal Ascot and the Coronation Cup. Aggressor landed the 1960 renewal and went on to beat the great filly Petite Etoile, in the same year’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

Derby winner Charlottown was successful in 1967, while Rheingold landed the 1973 renewal en route to winning the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe later that same year.

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Glint Of Gold, second to Shergar in the 1981 Derby, landed the John Porter a year later in the famous silks of Paul Melon. The following year, Diamond Shoal made it back to back victories for the American owner.

Jupiter Island won the race in 1985 and would go on to win the Japan Cup the following year, while Unfuwain was a classy winner in 1989.

Sir Michael Stoute enjoyed back to back victories in 1991 and 1992, with the talented pair of Rock Hopper and Saddler’s Hall.

Multiple Group One winner Warrsan was successful in 2003 and Arc runner-up Mubtaker became the oldest winner, aged nine, in 2006.

There was another classy Stoute winner in 2010, when Harbinger served notice on his burgeoning talent, while Arab Spring and Dartmouth sealed the trainer’s position as the most successful in the history of the race, with seven victories to date.

In 2018, Defoe won the race for Roger Varian, before adding the Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket. He eventually ran in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

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NEWBURY RACECOURSE FEATURE DUBAI DUTY FREE JOHN PORTER STAKES WINNERS 1980 Niniski Willie Carson Dick Hern 1981 Pelerin 4 Brian Taylor Harry Wragg 1982 Glint of Gold 4 John Matthias Ian Balding 1983 Diamond Shoal 4 Steve Cauthen Ian Balding 1984 Gay Lemur 4 Geoff Baxter Bruce Hobbs 1985 Jupiter Island 6 Greville Starkey Clive Brittain 1986 Lemhill 4 Ray Cochrane Michael Blanshard 1987 Rakaposhi King 5 Steve Cauthen Henry Cecil 1988 Alwasmi 4 Richard Hills Harry Thomson Jones 1989 Unfuwain 4 Willie Carson Dick Hern 1990 Brush Aside 4 Steve Cauthen Henry Cecil 1991 Rock Hopper 4 Pat Eddery Michael Stoute 1992 Saddlers’ Hall 4 Pat Eddery Michael Stoute 1993 Linpac West 7 Frankie Dettori Bill Elsey 1994 Right Win 4 Pat Eddery Richard Hannon Sr. 1995 Strategic Choice 4 Richard Quinn Paul Cole 1996 Spout 4 Tim Sprake Roger Charlton 1997 Whitewater Affair 4 Olivier Peslier Michael Stoute 1998 Posidonas 6 Richard Quinn Paul Cole 1999 Sadian 4 Pat Eddery John Dunlop 2000 Yavana’s Pace 8 Darryll Holland Mark Johnston 2001 Lucido 5 Pat Eddery John Dunlop 2002 Zindabad 6 Kevin Darley Mark Johnston 2003 Warrsan 5 Philip Robinson Clive Brittain 2004 Dubai Success 4 Michael Hills Barry Hills 2005 Day Flight 4 Richard Hughes John Gosden 2006 Mubtaker 9 Martin Dwyer Marcus Tregoning 2007 Maraahel 6 Richard Hills Sir Michael Stoute 2008 Royal and Regal 4 Neil Callan Michael Jarvis 2009 Enroller 4 Martin Dwyer Willie Muir 2010 Harbinger 4 Ryan Moore Sir Michael Stoute 2011 Indian Days 6 Tom Queally James Given 2012 Harris Tweed 5 Liam Jones William Haggas 2013 Universal 4 Silvestre de Sousa Mark Johnston 2014 Cubanita 5 Jim Crowley Ralph Beckett 2015 Arab Spring 5 Ryan Moore Michael Stoute 2016 Dartmouth 4 Ryan Moore Michael Stoute 2017 Muntahaa 4 Jim Crowley John Gosden 2018 Defoe 4 Andrea Atzeni Roger Varian

trainers, six-time Champion Trainer Fred Darling, who was local to Newbury and trained seven Derby winners in a glittering career.

It was first run as the Lambourn Stakes in 1949 and was re-named in honour of Darling, in 1955.

Mysterious won the race in 1973, before landing the 1,000 Guineas and Topsy, in 1979, won the Fred Darling before placing at Newmarket.

In 1981, Marwell saw out the seven furlongs well at Newbury, before placing in the 1,000 Guineas. But Sir Michael Stoute’s filly would prove most effective as a top class sprinter.

A year later, the race was won by Slightly Dangerous, a top class racehorse, who as a broodmare, proved hugely important to Juddmonte Farms.

Among her progeny were Champion Miler Warning, Irish Derby placed Deploy, dual Derby winner Commander In Chief, Derby runner-up Dushyantor and Ribblesdale Stakes winner Yashmak.

Mahogany was a top class winner in 1984, while two years later, Maysoon, a daughter from Shergar’s only crop, won the race, before placing in the Newmarket 1,000 Guineas.

Pass The Peace gave Michael Bell a Group race success in his first season as a trainer in 1989.

The following year, Salsabil served notice on her prowess in the Fred Darling Stakes. By the end of 1990, she had won the 1,000 Guineas, Oaks and Irish Derby.

A year later, the grey filly Shadayid, followed her footsteps from Newbury to Classic glory at Newmarket.

Another vintage winner came in 1996, as Sir Henry Cecil’s brilliant filly Bosra Sham tuned up for 1,000 Guineas glory at Newbury.

Wince also completed the double for Cecil in 1999.

DUBAI DUTY FREE FRED DARLING STAKES The Group Three Dubai Duty Free Fred Darling Stakes is run over seven furlongs and is one of the most significant trials for the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket.

The race commemorates one of the UK’s greatest ever course-specialist.co.uk

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FEATURE NEWBURY RACECOURSE DUBAI DUTY FREE FRED DARLING STAKES WINNERS 1980 Millingdale Lillie 1981 Marwell 1982 Slightly Dangerous 1983 Goodbye Shelley 1984 Mahogany 1985 Top Socialite 1986 Maysoon 1987 Littlefield 1988 Bluebook 1989 Pass the Peace 1990 Salsabil 1991 Shadayid 1992 Musicale 1993 Sueboog 1994 Bulaxie 1995 Aqaarid 1996 Bosra Sham 1997 Dance Parade 1998 Daunting Lady 1999 Wince 2000 Iftiraas 2001 Rolly Polly 2002 Queen’s Logic 2003 Tante Rose 2004 Majestic Desert 2005 Penkenna Princess 2006 Nasheej 2007 Majestic Roi 2008 Muthabara 2009 Lahaleeb 2010 Puff 2011 Rimth 2012 Moonstone Magic 2013 Maureen 2014 J Wonder 2015 Redstart 2016 Marenko 2017 Dabyah 2018 Dan’s Dream THE WATERSHIP DOWN STUD GREENHAM STAKES The Group Three watership Down Stud Greenham Stakes, named after the area of Berkshire in which Newbury is located, is one of the most important trials for the 2,000 Guineas and has been the starting point for the careers of

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© www.cranhamphoto.com

some of the great names of the Turf.

Established in 1906, the race takes place over a straight seven furlongs.

Minoru was the first superstar to win the Greenham, going on to add the 2,000 Guineas and Derby of 1909.

Parth won the Greenham in 1923 – and after a luckless run in the Derby, in which he remarkably finished third, having been left at the start, he went on to win the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

Orwell won the race in 1932 before adding the 2,000 Guineas a few weeks later.

Silly Season was successful for local trainer Ian Balding and jockey Geoff Lewis, in 1965 – but six years later they returned with one of the all-time greats, when Mill Reef won the race.

The Paul Mellon owned colt would finish behind Brigadier Gerard in an epic 1971 2,000 Guineas, before landing the Derby, Eclipse Stakes, King George and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

Boldboy won the race in 1973 and would prove a popular horse throughout the 1970s.

In 1976, Sir Henry Cecil’s Wollow won the Greenham, before adding the 2,000 Guineas.

Three years later, it seemed Kris would follow suit when he won at Newbury. However, he had to give second best to Steven Cauthen and Tap On Wood in the 2,000 Guineas, before dominating the mile division in 1979, with victories in the St James’s Palace Stakes, Sussex Stakes, Waterford Crystal Mile, Queen Elizabeth II nd Stakes and Challenge Stakes.

Known Fact could only finish fourth to Final Straw in 1980, but reversed form at Newmarket on the disqualification of Nureyev, in the 2,000 Guineas.

Wassl won the race in 1983 and was an early pointer to the growing role of the Maktoum family in British racing.

The bonny little colt would go on to beat Lomond in the Irish 2,000 Guineas.

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NEWBURY RACECOURSE FEATURE Bairn was another early Maktoum winner in the race in 1985. The Luca Cumani trained chesnut was narrowly beaten in the 2,000 Guineas by Shadeed.

In 1992, the French colt Lion Cavern won the Greenham on soft ground. However, it was the fourth-placed Rodrigo De Triano, who would go on to English and Irish Guineas glory, as well as winning the Juddmonte International Stakes.

Turtle Island was a runaway winner in 1994 and would follow suit in the Irish 2,000 Guineas in soft ground.

A year later, the northern superstar Celtic Swing was an easy winner of the race, beating top class miler Bahri in the Greenham. Celtic Swing was narrowly beaten by Pennekamp in the 2,000 Guineas, but would go on to land the Prix du Jockey Club.

Dick Turpin beat his much-vaunted stable mate Canford Cliffs in 2010, with both colts going on to Group One glory as three year-olds.

But in 2011, the eyes of the racing world were fixed on Newbury, for the three year-old debut of Frankel.

Sir Henry Cecil’s ultimate work in progress eased to a brilliant victory over the top class Excelebration, before destroying his rivals in the 2,000 Guineas. Frankel would retired unbeaten at four, after fourteen victories.

In 2014, Kingman confirmed the promise of his two starts as a juvenile, by returning from injury with a fine win in the Greenham Stakes.

However, it was Night Of Thunder, soundly beaten at Newbury, who would reverse form in the Newmarket Classic, with Kingman settling for Irish 2,000 Guineas compensation.

2015 saw another superstar win the Greenham in the form of Muhaarar.

The Charlie Hills runner would prove most effective as a sprinter and duly became Champion Sprinter for the year.

In 2017, Barney Roy confirmed his promise with victory in the Greenham Stakes, before running a close second to Churchill, in the 2,000 Guineas. He would later gain his

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

revenge in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

In 2018, James Garfield gave George Scott a first victory in the Guineas trial.

WATERSHIP DOWN STUD GREENHAM STAKES WINNERS 1979 Kris 1980 Final Straw 1981 Another Realm 1982 Cajun 1983 Wassl 1984 Creag-An-Sgor 1985 Bairn 1986 Faustus 1987 Risk Me 1988 Zelphi 1989 Zayyani 1990 Rock City 1991 Bog Trotter 1992 Lion Cavern 1993 Inchinor 1994 Turtle Island 1995 Celtic Swing 1996 Danehill Dancer 1997 Yalaietanee 1998 Victory Note 1999 Enrique 2000 Barathea Guest 2001 Munir 2002 Redback

Darryll Holland 2003 Muqbil 2004 Salford City 2005 Indesatchel 2006 Red Clubs 2007 Major Cadeaux 2008 Paco Boy 2009 Vocalised 2010 Dick Turpin 2011 Frankel 2012 Caspar Netscher 2013 Olympic Glory 2014 Kingman 2015 Muhaarar 2016 Tasleet 2017 Barney Roy 2018 James Garfield

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FEATURE ROGER VARIAN

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“One of my earliest memories was West Tip winning the 1986 Grand National, ridden by my then idol, Richard Dunwoody”

ROGER VARIAN TALKS TRAINING

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oger Varian is undeniably a growing force among the training ranks in Newmarket.

The trainer of such luminaries as Nahrain, Kingston Hill, Ambivalent, Postponed, Belardo, Cursory Glance and latterly Sheikha Reika, has one of the most powerful teams in Newmarket and plenty to both look back on and forward to. Roger very kindly gave up his time to speak with Course Specialist recently, to discuss how his passion for racing has evolved and transformed into one of the most exciting global businesses in racing.

Roger was not born into a racing dynasty, rather he caught the riding bug at an early age, whilst riding ponies from the family base in Oxfordshire. Those first connections with the equine world, gave Roger career aspirations that transcended tender youth.

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“I was only really ever interested in being a jump jockey.

I remember being hooked on racing and watching Channel Four racing and three times a year we would go to Kingston Blount Point To Point, where I was able to get close to the horses. Growing up, one of my earliest memories was West Tip winning the 1986 Grand National, ridden by my then idol, Richard Dunwoody.”

Whilst Roger’s family knew of his dream career, he kept his goals to himself and finished school at the first opportunity.

The hugely experienced and renowned former Champion Jockey and top class trainer, Josh Gifford, initially employed the budding jump jockey. Over the next three years, Roger would ride seven winners and most of his rides were for Josh.

But two significant factors were to shape Roger’s future and set him on the path to becoming a flat trainer.

“Josh did not support summer jumps racing and whilst you would work every day during the autumn, winter and spring, we all got a nice summer holiday. So for two consecutive summers I went to work for Michael Jarvis, in Newmarket,” Roger recalls.

Explaining why he gave up riding professionally at the age of only 21, Roger says, “I had ridden seven winners in three years. I was very ambitious but also realistic; I was conscious that I wasn’t making the progress that I would like. I finished riding with my seven pound claim still intact! I then went to work for Michael Jarvis as his assistant trainer.”

And so began a whole new chapter in Roger’s life, as he abandoned his childhood dream of being a top jump jockey,

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ROGER VARIAN FEATURE to focus on a new sport that was increasingly interesting him.

“The flat game interested me; I got more interested in pedigrees and it was the summer holidays spent at Michael’s Kremlin House Stables that fuelled my fascination. I probably didn’t realise at the time, but I was in the right place at the right time.”

Roger began his first year as Michael’s assistant trainer, with a powerful team of horses, stabled on the Fordham Road.

In 2001, Michael still had his Prix du Jockey Club winner Holding Court, while the Classic generation included 1,000 Guineas winner Ameerat and the Derby Italiano and Grosser Preis von Baden winner Morshdi, who would also finish second to Galileo, in the Irish Derby.

2001 was certainly no flash in the pan and Michael and Roger enjoyed memorable moments with the enigmatically brilliant Rakti, who won the Champion Stakes, Prince Of Wales’s Stakes, Lockinge Stakes and Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, but was just as capable of throwing a race away with his pre-race antics.

“He was exceptionally talented, for sure,” Roger recalls.

“He wasn’t so bad at home, but could be highly strung at the racecourse. If the preliminaries went right, he would win. He was a wonderful horse and something of a freak; he was not fashionably bred but for sure he was one of the best horses I’ve worked with.”

Another highlight was certainly Eswarah’s victory in the 2005 Oaks.

“For her to deliver the way she did, after only two runs, showcased Michael’s skills as a trainer,” Roger reflects.

Whilst the stable was enjoying tremendous success with its equine inmates, Roger was learning the ropes all of the time, at the hands of a master trainer.

“He (Michael) had high standards and expected high standards. He wasn’t a screamer or a shouter and yet he could let you know alright if he wasn’t happy. He went about his job quietly and professionally. You had to earn his respect. You couldn’t just turn up and be valued; you had to prove your worth to Michael. I was fortunate to spend over ten years with Michael and over time we forged a strong partnership which became a friendship.”

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FEATURE ROGER VARIAN

The turning point sadly came in 2010, when Michael became very ill and Roger became more and more embroiled in the daily routine of a top trainer. That year of emotional turmoil set the foundations in place for Roger to move on with his career, albeit in unfortunate circumstances.

“Taking over from Michael (in 2011) probably wasn’t as big a leap for me as it could have been because he had been quite ill the year before and therefore I was doing a lot more day to day training duties than would be usual. I was communicating a lot more with the owners and was really living and breathing the business of training horses.

“I don’t remember too much pressure. Taking over a large string of horses and having a man of Michael’s experience behind me – and being able to call on his advice, was a huge help. I was very fortunate really.”

Roger’s first major breakthrough came in the Autumn of his first season training. His maiden Group One victory proved an emotional moment, as Nahrain landed the Prix de l’Opera, at Longchamp.

“To bag a Group One in our first season, on Arc Day, was massive really. And Frankie was brilliant on her that day.”

When Roger took over from Michael, he had around 120 horses in his care. That has expanded to 180 horses now, with careful management of staff to make sure operations run smoothly.

“I am very comfortable with the number of horses now; we have grown the team to handle that volume and we do that very well.

“The key is putting management and staffing structures in place to train effectively, but this doesn’t happen overnight.

Training will never be a one-man game.”

Roger has a wide range of clientele on his books and is always keen to thank them for his success, “I want to pay thanks to all of our clients. Without being sent such nice horses to train over the last few years I certainly wouldn’t be where I am now. We train for some wonderful people.”

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Evidence of Roger’s ambition was there for all to see, when he took the huge step of purchasing Carlburg Stables on Bury Road, from the legendary Clive Brittain.

In 2013, Clive was kind enough to speak with Course Specialist about his brilliant filly Pebbles, whom he had trained predominately in the swimming pool at Carlburg.

“Carlburg Stables boasts some great facilities and is fabulous place to train from,” Roger states. “We have done a little bit of work over the last couple of years and the yard is looking great. We are very happy to be here.”

Roger’s first Group One success came in France and campaigning horses successfully overseas, has very much become a part of his training profile.

“There are some mighty big prizes abroad and with some of the better horses, we make an effort to be switched on to the big overseas races.”

2019 has seen Varian Stable launch an exciting new venture as it enters into the world of syndication through Varian Racing.

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ROGER VARIAN FEATURE

“

“I am very comfortable with the number of horses now; we have grown the team to handle that volume and we do that very well”

“

“We’ve wanted to put together a professional syndicate for a few years and I think it is a good way to get more people involved at an affordable price,” Roger says.

“It can also be a way of discovering new owners,” he adds.

Varian Racing will be represented in 2019 by a pair of two year-old colts from exciting young sires Ivawood and Free Eagle.

“There are 20 shares available in both horses and only a handful remain. The Ivawood colt, Almendro, is the more precocious of the two and I hope that he might be ready to race in May and hopefully could be good enough to go to Royal Ascot. The Free Eagle colt, Swooping Eagle, will take more time and could be seen out in July or August,” Roger states.

The Varian Racing colts form part of a nice crop of juveniles that excite Roger, heading into 2019, along with some genuine Classic prospects among his three year olds and a strong team of older horses.

“I think we do have Classic hopes and a nice bunch of fillies. Qabala is full of potential, while Mot Juste has already won a Group Three and could run in a Classic trial. Khuzaam

is a very exciting colt and Turjomaan is unbeaten and full of potential,” he says.

Other horses Roger is looking forward to among the three year olds include Tauteke, who ran with promise on debut, before landing a Chelmsford maiden. Nausha, a daughter of Kingman, made a very pleasing winning debut in one of those good Newbury autumn maidens, looking very smart. Similarly, Lastochka, racing in the same silks of Nurlan Bizakov, won her only race, showing plenty of gears at Kempton Park. San Donato is perhaps a more familiar name and did nothing but improve as 2018 progressed.

“I also like the look of the two year-olds at this early stage, while we have plenty of good older horses to look forward to.

“Sharja Bridge (winner of the Balmoral Handicap) will go forward and Qazyna was a listed winner on her last start of 2018.”

Zabeel Prince is another horse that Roger is excited by. He showed himself to be most progressive in 2017 and landed the Doncaster Mile on his return in March 2018. After a lengthy break, he ran a superb race to finish second to Mustashry in the Group Two Joel Stakes at Newmarket, last autumn.

Then there is Defoe, perhaps becoming the stable’s talisman at the age of five.

Owned by Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, the distinctive grey has shown a real liking for Newbury, with Group Three victories in the Geoffrey Freer Stakes and the John Port Stakes, before landing last year’s Group Two Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket. Defoe ended up running in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe last year and whilst he fell just short of Group One success, Roger is hopeful there is more to come.

Much the same could be said of Roger’s training career and he is hopeful he will be training in 20 years from now, still learning new things and delivering big race winners from around the globe.

For more information on Varian Racing and Roger’s career, please visit: www.varianstable.com

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FEATURE CHELSEA THOROUGHBREDS

CHELSEA THOROUGHBREDS

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A GREAT WAY TO GET INVOLVED IN RACING

ver the past few years, the Chelsea Thoroughbreds name has made a notable mark in British racing.

The instantly recognisable light blue silks with dark blue sleeves and a white cap, have stood out with a series of fascinatingly-named racehorses.

Names like Humphrey Bogart, Ernest Blofeld, Mr Scaramanga, Harry Callahan and George Formby, have leapt from the silver screen and stage, onto the racecourse.

The names are eye-catching, but London-based Chelsea Thoroughbreds is about a lot more than your average racing syndicate and has enjoyed with terrific success.

Few syndicates can take their owners to the rarified air of Epsom or Royal Ascot.

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Humphrey Bogart won the 2016 Lingfield Derby Trial, before going on to finish fifth to Harzand, in that year’s Investec Derby at Epsom.

Tony Curtis is another name many will recognise, as a Listed juvenile winner, who contested the Craven Stakes and many other Group races.

In early March, the Martyn Meade trained Ebury made a hugely exciting debut when landing a Kempton Park contest by 2 ¾ lengths.

But there is something else that discerns Chelsea Throughbreds from run of the mill syndicates.

Becoming a member gains you access seven days a week to a Club, located at The Sydney Arms, situated just off the Kings Road in Chelsea.

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LIMITED SHARES REMAINING IN THIS YEARS 2yo PURCHASES ALL with Group 1 winning trainers...

New for 2019 ‘ALPHONSE CAPONE’ - b.c - Charm Spirit x Tocopilla - Richard Hannon ‘JACK RUBY’ - b.c - Havana Gold x Make Me Blush - Richard Hannon ‘OWNEY MADDEN’ - b.c. - Oasis Dream x Terre du Vent - Martyn Meade ‘THELMA TODD’ - ch.f - Australia x Sugar House - Michael Bell ‘DUTCH SCHULTZ’ - b.c. - Golden Horn x Karpina - Ralph Beckett ‘TOMMY DE VITO’ - b.c. - Dandy Man x Rohlindi - Charlie Hills

‘Racehorse ownership at it’s best’

For more information please contact us on :

Email : info@chelseathoroughbreds.com Tel : 07788 888 777 www.chelseathoroughbreds.com

FEATURE CHELSEA THOROUGHBREDS

This takes the social side of racehorse ownership to a whole new level and there are regular Club gatherings.

The website extols the virtues of Club membership: “We also have great personal friendships with all of our trainers and everyone we deal with attached to Chelsea Thoroughbreds and want to extend those friendships to people who join Chelsea Thoroughbreds as owners. We act as your personal racing concierge and offer a very professional and personal level of service so that gives you the ownership experience we would want for ourselves.”

So how does a Chelsea Thoroughbreds syndicate work?

There are a number of racing partnerships and syndicates to suit a variety of financial means.

Depending on the cost of the horse, syndicates are usually formed of 10 people.

Syndicate membership starts from £5,000 to £15,000 and costs reduce in subsequent years to just cover the training fees.

The share price covers all expenses including the purchase and the training of the horses up to the end of their racing season, including all vets bills, entry fees, transport, owners badge for race days and stable visits.

Horses are bought through a top team of trainers and Chelsea Thoroughbreds has had horses with: Richard Hannon, Charlie Hills, Ralph Beckett, Andrew Balding, Charlie Fellowes, Martyn Meade, Nicky Henderson, Michael Bell, Robert Cowell, Hugo Palmer, Paul Cole and Mark Casse in America.

Being part of a syndicate brings the added privilege of attending a yearling parade, where you have an opportunity to view horses ahead of deciding on which ones to invest in.

There are also opportunities to visit trainers’ yards to watch the horses being trained later on.

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Syndicate members are kept up to date through email and phone contact on running plans for horses. Chelsea Thoroughbreds provides one owner’s badge for each 10% shareholder (or full share) for collection from the owners entrance on the day their horse runs. Sometimes extra badges can be purchased depending on the course. A badge gives owners access to the paddock and pre-parade ring before the race as well as owners’ facilities provided by the track.

At the end of a partnership, accounts are reviewed by the auditors and any surplus income over expenses, is distributed to the shareholders. The Club is responsible for any deficit.

A list of Chelsea Thoroughbred horses in training: OLDER HORSES: • HUMPHREY BOGART Six year old gelding trained by Nicky Henderson • MAX ZORIN Five year old gelding trained by Andrew Balding • HARRY CALLAHAN Four year old gelding trained by Mick Channon

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CHELSEA THOROUGHBREDS FEATURE THREE YEAR OLDS: • JOHNNY KIDD Australia gelding trained by Andrew Balding • SAM COOKE Pour Moi gelding trained by Ralph Beckett • EDDIE COCHRAN Society Rock Colt trained by Richard Hannon • CHUCK WILLIS Kodiac gelding trained by Mark Casse • BRIAN EPSTEIN Dark Angel Colt trained by Richard Hannon • GLENN MILLER Exceed and Excel gelding trained by Martyn Meade • RITCHIE VALENS Helmet Colt trained by Richard Hannon • DINAH WASHINGTON Australia Filly trained by Michael Bell • RUDY LEWIS Excelebration gelding trained by Charlie Fellowes • GEORGE FORMBY Mayson gelding trained by Hugo Palmer • MISS GRADENKO Foxwedge Filly trained by Robert Cowell • OLIVER HARDY Foxwedge Colt trained by Paul Cole TWO YEAR OLDS: • THE CINCINNATI KID Charm Spirit Colt trained by Richard Hannon • OWNEY MADDEN Oasis Dream Colt trained by Martyn Meade • THELMA TODD Australia Filly trained by Michael Bell • DUTCH SCHULTZ Golden Horn Colt trained by Ralph Beckett • TOMMY DE VITO Dandy Man Colt trained by Charlie hills • RICK BLAINE Ruler of the World Colt trained by Andrew Balding • JACK RUBY Havana Gold Colt trained by Richard Hannon For more information on Chelsea Throughbreds and how to get involved, please visit: www.chelseathoroughbreds.com

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FEATURE JOHN DANCE

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

JOHN DANCE ON THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF RACING – AND LAURENS TOO!

I

n recent years the racing silks of John Dance have become increasingly familiar on UK racecourses and further afield.

Course Specialist first met John back in 2015, when he was enjoying the early throes of racehorse ownership and with his wife Jessica, owned a small breeding operation.

A stream of exciting investments and of course the success of superstar filly Laurens, have catapulted John into the racing conscience over the past two years.

Ahead of the 2019 Turf Season, we caught up with him to discuss his passion, racehorse ownership, bloodstock and of course his hopes for Laurens this year.

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When did you first get interested in racing?

I’ve been interested to some extent for as long as I can remember, as a very young boy I’d watch the Grand National with my Dad and see his office sweepstake selection come second virtually every year. I was 8 for the earliest I remember, Greasepaint being the unlucky runner up that year.

What prompted you to become involved in racehorse ownership and when was this?

Seeing the buzz of everyday winning owners whilst we were sponsoring races and being seduced by their emotions.

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JOHN DANCE FEATURE Did you start out with one horse or buy into several?

Although it was never the plan I got carried away and had 6 within the first few weeks, I’m glad we did though as it accelerated the learning curve.

Did you have a particular plan in terms of the type of horse you wanted to buy or particular sires you wanted to use?

It has always been and still remains my dream to win a Guineas (1,000 or 2,000) so I’m always attracted, and was from day one, to a type that’s likely to run as both a two year old and as an older horse.

How many runners did you have before your first victory and when and where did that take place?

We’d had two runners with one run each before Kayo Koko won at Catterick in July 2014. She’d worked with another unraced horse of ours’ a week before (Marsh Pride) and had been destroyed by her. So I wasn’t very confident but she won by two lengths on her debut and it was an amazing thrill, it wasn’t long before I realised that marsh pride probably had a decent chance on debut too!

Explain the emotions of watching a race with one of your horses in it. Has that changed over time and do you have different expectations / feelings now?

I often get quite nervous, unless my hopes or expectations are particularly low. I’m not one for messing around with handicap marks so I’m always most nervous in the hope they do their best and themselves justice, whatever level that may be. The thrill of winning at any level is just fantastic, the rush you get and pride you feel is as good as anything in sport even though you haven’t done it yourself. I’m so happy that despite winning so many top level races with Laurens last year, that the nerves and excitement haven’t changed at any level since.

What were the important things you learned along the way?

Jess and myself and learnt so much in fairness, thankfully I consider myself a quick learner and I guess my job helps me in that. Working with trainers you trust and have a similar mindset to yourself is probably the most important though. If you are thinking of having horses yourself I’d recommend as small shares in as many syndicate horses as you can to suss as many trainers as you can out first.

Was Marsh Pride your first big success and how much pride did that give you?

She was our first above average horse, in fairness she never won a ‘big’ race as such, a few issues in her prime perhaps meant she missed her opportunity. But she was a very talented horse, that won at 2, 3, 4 and 5. She won on debut very comfortably, probably still my favourite debut of any horse we’ve had and we had the whole family racing for the first time. Her last race was at Chester, again my family were there as we knew it was her last and I think she did too, the guts she showed having being caught out when the leaders kicked to chase through and pass 5 or 6 horses and win again literally had me on the brink of tears. In fact Jess was very definitely in tears, we had many highs and lows with Marsh Pride but I think we love each other very much, she galvanised my passion for the sport and I can’t wait for her offspring to run in her colours.

Is there a particular type of horse and race that gives you most pleasure, such as the juveniles or a sprinter or a stayer?

These days although the focus remains a dream of nice milers, I enjoy both sprinters and stayers (Rare Groove and New Society being two very nice ones) as it provides great variety.

Tell me about the margins in racing, how much you have to invest and the returns

We won 4 Group 1’s in 2018, including French and Irish prize money we won nearly £1.5m in prize money. 2018 was an exception for owners like us in all reality and yet we still spent more on training than we made in prize money. Sadly selling nice horses like Beatbox Rhythm when the big bucks comes in is the only way to dilute the damage and without numbers (which lets face it is not possible for most owners) you’re unlikely to find the type of horse that can redress the balance. I recently calculated that the average horse (rated 68) would cost an owner approximately £15,000 a year even after prize money.

What are your thoughts about prize money and the treatment that owners receive?

Racecourses can’t pay what isn’t there and naturally you’d expect top class races to have better prize money than low level races.

However, we know that due to media rights and levy that Class 4-7 races generate much more in income for courses than the prize money they pay out. As mentioned these subsidise better quality race prize funds, however 87% of all horses are rated

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FEATURE JOHN DANCE at Class 4 level or lower. The industry and vast majority of yards are dependent on that level of horse and racing and if it becomes too much of a money pit we will lose owners, lose staff and lose yards and that would be very sad.

What has been your own strategy financially and how challenging is it to break even?

We have had to apply a trading strategy to get close to breaking even, this means a few things. 1) If they aren’t up to covering their cost sin prize money we need to identify and move on quickly. 2) Sadly means selling some good and reasonable horses to bank a profit and offset losses and costs. 3) Playing the long game and hoping we can eventually finance the string via the sale of some of the horses we’ve bred, the offspring of a Laurens for example could pay for 2 years training and investment in the whole string. A few years away yet of course.

Tell me how you came to acquire Laurens, what (or who!) motivated you to buy her and what your early expectations were for her

There were a few things really. We’d named a horse from the previous yearling crop loosely after my eldest daughter Ashleigh, Ladofash. Now he wasn’t particularly great but when I noticed a horse in Goffs Premier Yearling catalogue already named Laurens, my youngest daughter being Lauren, I felt in the interests of fairness we ought to take a look. As it happened, Laurens is the name of a small village near where she was bred in France, all her siblings being named after similarly close villages.

Before we made it to the sales for viewings ourselves, our main bloodstock adviser Daniel Creighton had messaged to say he’d seen the nicest filly ever at the sale, low and behold the very same lot. I’d say he’s never been more bullish before or after about a horse.

Jess and myself took a look and I think we both fell in love with her, she was as stunning as a yearling as she is today, not only did she look superb she also had the most gorgeous walk and even back then had the attitude of a Queen. The name, Daniels confidence and our own desire meant we just had to go home with her.

At what stage did Karl (Burke) indicate she might be something special?

In terms of confirming her talent it was probably only about 8 weeks before her first run, perhaps less. She did a piece of work with Quiet Reflection’s lead horse Karl said she breezed passed just as well as the yard’s original Queen, despite almost certainly wanting further and being 2 years younger. It was hard not to get excited at that point.

What can you remember of her May Hill Stakes victory?

My main memories are firstly PJ ringing as we drove down to Doncaster and saying “How does it feel to have the favourite in a Group 2?”, when we set off she was short but not favourite, to have a favourite in a Group 2 fillies race was really quite mind-blowing.

© AJ Byles

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TITANIUM RACING

A fresh approach to racehorse ownership

TOUGH REMEDY - 4YO Rated 89 and a winner of 4 of his last 8 races, a flagbearer for the club and a horse sure to give us some nice Saturdays at the races during the summer.

Titanium is a racing club that gives members the benefits of ownership, including owners tickets and a share of prize money, for a flexible monthly payment with no fixed term and no initial costs.

You can have a 1% share of prize money in four different horses for £100 per month, or eight horses for £175 per month. Being involved with multiple horses will of course increase your chances of involvement in a succesful one.

Check out some of the horses we have on offer and discover more at www.titanium-racing.co.uk

An exclusive opportunity to be involved wit h a new Northern ba sed racing club a t an affordable p rice.

LANDING NIGHT – 7YO An 8 times winner of nearly £60,000 in prize money, our club favourite who always gives us a run for our money and is surely destined to win again soon.

PLUMETTE – 3YO Runner up on recent debut, beaten ½ to an experienced horse rated 82.

MOONBOOTZ – 2YO A gorgeous looking £105,000 yearling purchase by first season sire sensation No Nay Never who is keeping us excited for the summer.

FEATURE JOHN DANCE I remember during the race panicking that the pace was slow and that a late sprint wouldn’t suit, but I think that was the day the penny finally dropped and when she eventually got rolling she didn’t half motor home.

It was also the day my infamous robot dance first made an appearance. It was totally unplanned and a panic reflex, ITVs camera was close on me but everyone had disappeared to different ends of the parade ring to check the photo finish and I was all alone. The classic Only Fools And Horses line played in my head “Play it cool John, play it cool” but from absolutely nowhere my body automatically started executing the first ever Robot of its life!

Laurens went on to land the Fillies’ Mile at Newmarket – how did that feel, to beat Coolmore and Godolphin horses in such manner?

It was crazy just being there, potentially in with a chance with a shot at a Group 1 versus racing’s superpowers. I was more nervous than at any other race, I felt that there was obviously chance we’d never been in this position again, this could be our one shot at achieving the most unrealistic of dreams. The feelings after winning were incredible, I think most of all I was totally shellshocked at what we had just achieved. But also, and this really meant a lot, so much pride in PJ winning his first Group and being part of that for him was really special.

How unlucky was she in the Guineas?

Potentially very unlucky, she beat everything we thought we’d need to beat and was only beaten by an unconsidered filly she’d thumped both before and after. However, I do think Billesdon Brook deserves more credit for her performance that day, it may have been a one off, but her actual performance that day was arguably worthy of any Guineas in my opinion and deserves more praise.

Of course Laurens wasn’t the only big race winner in 2018 for you; Cosmic Law won the Woodcote Stakes at Epsom and went on to run at Royal Ascot. What were those experiences like?

I love the history and heritage of the Woodcote, particularly of it’s record of delivering subsequent Ascot winners. To be in was a proud moment but to storm the field and win by so far was one of my favourite races. A replay that is on frequently in our house.

Karl said immediately after the Fillies’ Mile that he saw Laurens as a Prix de Diane filly.

What made him think that specifically and did you agree?

Despite winning a Group 1 she was still a little raw and weak as a 2yo, it was sheer talent that was winning these races and we thought that as she strengthened she’d stay further. As a French-bred we’d targeted the French Guineas or Oaks (Prix De Diane) from the moment we bought her and to fulfil that drunken prediction nearly two years later was amazing.

Did you plan backwards from the Prix de Diane for the first half of her three year old career?

Not as such, if she hadn’t shown speed in the Spring of that year we might have, but we all knew way may only get one serious crack at a Guineas in our lifetime and we ended up building towards that but with the preservation of the rest of the year in mind.

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© www.healyracing.ie

Tell me what happened in Chantilly when she won. What are your abiding memories?

We had a big group of people with us, my parents and their friends came from a French holiday, Jess’s dad, PJs family and Dan, Josh and many many other Creightons, plus of course Karl etc. We were together in the parade ring but got split up leaving it as it was very hectic. In the end Michael ( Jess’s father) PJs wife Abby and myself had no idea where to watch, so we went back to the lawn in the posh Longimes enclosure.

As she surged through to win we got very excited much to the bemusement of the French film stars, models and well to do around us and whilst tempted to remain restrained we just went crackers and didn’t care less. I still don’t think they knew we were the winnings owners.

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JOHN DANCE FEATURE Laurens went on to defeat Alpha Centauri in the Matron Stakes and then repelled the Ballydoyle fillies in the Sun Chariot Stakes.

Tell me how she has changed your life. Has your racing philosophy changed and have your racing ambitions changed?

What other horses are you most looking forward to in 2019 and how many do you have in training?

We currently have around 35 in training, not only do we have 2yos but still a few 3yos unraced and some could be OK. I’m looking forward to a Dark Angel colt out of a sister to Equiano named Critical Voltage, he had a pelvic issue last year but I’m really like the look if him.

What are your main ambitions in racing now?

The next on the ambition checklist would be to breed a winner, after that to breed a black type horse. I’d love day to breed horses that came from a famous Dance dynasty.

Tell me about Titanium Racing and how it began. How much pleasure do you derive from your involvement in a syndicate?

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

She’s taken us to places and given us experiences you dream of but never expect in reality. She’s given me more TV exposure than I ever thought I’d have in my life, but that’s actually been useful in my day job as I suddenly feel more comfortable doing presentations and speeches as there’s considerable fewer people at them than on ITV! Ambition wise all remains as is, we’re looking to find nice horses and the aim is to find a listed winner, we’ve tried not to be spoiled by Laurens unique success.

It started as a means to introduce more people to the experience of race horse ownership. We’ve tried to do it in a way that gives members a greater chance of a share in a nice horse (by being involved in a smaller level but in more horses) and the thrills that come with that. It’s so good seeing members pride and the joy the get when their horses run well and the love they have for them all, even the untalented one’s. It’s great to be part of making that happen and being able to share these types of moments.

What made you decide to keep Laurens in training in 2019, has she wintered well and are you going to focus on the fillies and mares races?

Yes she’s wintered very well and could easily be stronger yet as a 4yo. At the end of the day we felt we might never get the chance again to be involved in the races she could contest this year, or type of race and that we should enjoy her whilst we can.

What will be her big targets and will you try her over 12 furlongs again at some point?

The Lockinge and Queen Anne are the immediate targets and further down the road defending the Matron and Sun Chariot would be aims of mine perhaps. She barely stayed a yard beyond 10f at York last year so I doubt we’ll try that Oaks trip again, I’m pretty convinced she became a better miler last year but wouldn’t be surprised if we tried a 10f race or two during the year.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into racehorse ownership?

You will get highs and lows, the lows hurt and feel like they last forever but the highs are greater than you could ever imagine.

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FEATURE BRIAN BARR RACING

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BRIAN BARR RACING FEATURE Image supplied by Brian Barr Racing

NURTURING AND IMPROVING EQUINE TALENT

T

raining is all about progression, learning new things and developing facilities, to give every horse an opportunity to succeed and to encourage new owners.

In the Blackmoor Vale, North Dorset, Brian Barr and his partner Daisy, have been gradually building up their accumulated experience, whilst converting the facilities at Tall Tree Stud into a state of the art centre for nurturing talent and giving horses that have maybe lost their way elsewhere, a second lease of life.

Course Specialist was privileged to catch up with Brian recently, to learn how things have progressed, since he first obtained a public licence during the winter of 2014/15.

At that time Godolphin were basically at the top of their game and won everything so I followed and backed most of theirs! As well as Martin Pipe with AP, again you could back blind as they usually won!

How and when did you first get into racing as a career and what did you do?

All I knew is I needed to get out of Scotland where I was getting in far too much trouble so after I completed the racing school my first proper job was at Jamie Osborne’s in Lambourn. I worked hard in the yard and was as enthusiastic as you could find and for that Jamie let me ride out and I progressed from there really.

Are you from a racing and equine background and if not, what attracted you to the sport?

No I’m not originally from a racing background, or a horsey background for that matter. I grew up in a small west coastal town near Glasgow and used to frequent the bookies from a young age to miss school!

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Who were the horses and people you first followed?

I remember watching Frankie Dettori win on Lochsong and thinking how easy it looked, so from that I found the British Racing School which is where I went at 16, after leaving school at 14 and working a couple of jobs before then. course-specialist.co.uk

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“I remember watching Frankie Dettori win on Lochsong and thinking how easy it looked, so from that I found the British Racing School”

April 2019

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FEATURE BRIAN BARR RACING How many horses did you start with and what were the facilities like when you arrived?

I started training with my partner Daisy out of her mother’s yard and when we started we had about 10 boxes and a horse walker with a few fields.

We used to box away to use other people’s gallops which restricted the numbers we had, we started on a permit anyway so I think we started with about six horses.

How challenging was it to make the books balance economically?

To be fair the books were easy to start with, having a such a small string we had a very high strike rate for horses finishing in the first three and used to bring back a lot of prize money, and as I say we started on a permit so didn’t have to worry about invoicing and chasing owners for payment. It was very easy back then!

Who were your biggest training influences and who do you turn to for advice?

Having never been an assistant trainer to anyone starting training was simply my own opinions mixed with different bits and pieces from all the brilliant yards I’d previously worked in, I could never turn to anyone apart from Daisy really so we have worked it out together, of course making plenty of mistakes, but also doing many things we are very proud of.

Image supplied by Brian Barr Racing

How did your career progress and what horses were you associated with?

I worked for several of the biggest and best flat trainers in the country, including Sir Michael Stoute, John Gosden and Barry Hills.

I got to ride a number of high profile horses in work, including Derby winner North Light, Golan, Notnowcato, Russian Rhythm for Sir Michael Stoute. Dark Angel and Celestial Halo for Barry Hills as well as breaking in 1,000 Guineas winner Ghanaati.

At the time it it was normal for me to ride horses of this quality, now as a trainer I realise quite how good those horses actually were!

When did you decide to become a trainer and why at that time?

Training was never an ambition of mine, it kind of just worked out that way, I was given an opportunity and I took it with both hands. Something I am very grateful of.

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What improvements have you made to your training centre?

The difference in Tall Trees since we started really is quite dramatic!

Having started with 10 boxes, a walker and some fields, we now have over 50 boxes in brand new American barns, all with back windows, over a mile of all weather gallops, an oval ring and a straight gallop, lunge pens, schooling grounds, solarium, wash bays, staff accommodation and the list goes on.

I couldn’t have done any of this without the amazing help from my parents in law who I will always be grateful to.

How many horses do you have in training now?

We would now have about 40 horses on site, with a fair mixture of NH, flat, and young stock from a couple of resident broodmares!

Inspire Racing Club (https://inspireracingclub.co.uk/) have become our biggest owners, with eight horses here and they really are a fantastic racing club with the nicest members.

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April 2019

BRIAN BARR RACING FEATURE How challenging has it been to scale up and maintain the same ethics and culture?

One of the hardest things with scaling up I would say is the staff, trying to find more and more reliable, capable staff.

We have tried very hard to keep all the same ethics from when we started, we train horses very much as individuals and try to keep them as happy as possible, another reason why it is key to have the right staff, happy and enthusiastic staff.

We work as a team and I believe we have a great one at present. Obviously since we started there have been some things we have changed, things we have learnt from and things we have introduced as we have gone on, but the basics stay the same.

Which horses have given you the most success?

Our biggest win to date would be Blaine winning at the Lockinge meeting at Newbury under Frankie Dettori, after a seven-month absence, it was a good day. The progression of Castlemorris King would probably stand out for us, starting off with a mark of 97, he progressed to 132 winning six times, he was a brilliant horse for us and one we loved dearly.

We generally do very well with horses that have lost their way in other yards, we have had quite a few win for us first time out and that is something we are very proud of, our ability to turn horses round in a short space of time.

How does scaling up affect the finances?

Again the finances kind of work themselves out, our owners are generally very good, we operate on a payment by return system which works for us.

Daisy does all the office work and the books as very sadly Katrina her Mum passed away last year and she had previously done all this, as well as being the general mum of everyone! As long as you keep on top of everything it’s easy to do, so Daisy tells me anyway as it’s not something I have much involvement in!

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Image supplied by Brian Barr Racing

What have been the most important things you have learned since taking out a training licence?

“Having never been an assistant trainer to anyone starting training was simply my own opinions mixed with different bits and pieces from all the brilliant yards I’d previously worked in”

Wow! The most important thing I have learnt since starting training, that’s a hard one, but maybe I would say patience, it’s a hard one to learn but you don’t have much choice in this game!

What have been the biggest changes you have made to your training since starting out?

“ What would be the maximum number of horses you would feel comfortable training?

As I said previously we have 53 boxes and if we had them full we would be happy. That’s a nice size and you then have a steady flow of horses running. So we have some space for a couple more!

We haven’t really changed anything major since we started to be honest, I suppose you could say we have experimented with a couple of things but I cant think of anything specific that we have changed.

What are your big hopes for 2019?

Our biggest hope for 2019 is to continue to improve, hopefully gain some more owners and it would be nice to find that “good” horse to take us to the next level.

For more information on Brian Barr Racing and ownership opportunities, please visit: www.brianbarrracing.co.uk

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES

KAYF TARA COLT TOPS DAY 1 OF GOFFS DONCASTER JANUARY SALE Europe’s 2019 sale calendar got under way at Doncaster with the opening day of the Goffs UK January Sale offering a session of National Hunt Mares and Foals to a large buying bench of purchasers.

Despite this year’s catalogue not featuring a major dispersal, with the 2018 sale hosting the Trull House Stud Dispersal, the sale’s foal session posted the third highest average in the sale’s history, finishing at £11,568, just short of 2017’s foal average of £11,664. However, trade was highly selective, continuing the trend seen across European sale venues last year, but those that held appeal were the subject of strong and sustained demand in the ring.

Topping the opening session was Little Lodge Farm’s Kayf Tara colt from the family of Grade 2 winners Definite Ruby and Stormyfairweather (Lot 33) who sold to Brendan Bashford Bloodstock for £58,000. Selwood Bloodstock’s Blue Bresil colt out of the mare Mickie (Lot 107) was another to feature when knocked down to Kevin Ross Bloodstock for £50,000.

IRISH POINTER PRESENTANDCOUNTING TOPS GOFFS UK DONCASTER JANUARY SALE

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

The two-day 2019 Goffs UK January Sale at Doncaster came to a conclusion today with the final session offering Horses-in-Training and a number of high-class UK and Irish Pointers.

Following on from yesterday’s opening day which offered National Hunt Mares and Foals, today’s session offered drafts from a number of major owners and trainers and was topped by Kilkeaskin House’s Point-to-Pointer Presentandcounting (Lot 264). The 5YO son of Presenting was the impressive twelve-length winner of his most recent P2P for Philip Dempsey at Aghabullogue earlier this month and was sold to Derek O’Connor for £105,000.

Presentandcounting was one of nine horses to sell for £50,000 or more today with other lots to feature including Tom Keating’s winning Pointer Dolphin Square (Lot 274) selling to David Christie Bloodstock for £80,000 and Paurick O’Connor Racing’s winning Pointer Avoid De Master (Lot 259) knocked down to David Dennis Racing for £75,000.

NEW RECORD FOR A ONE-DAY TATTERSALLS IRELAND FEBRUARY NH SALE

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

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The first Tattersalls Ireland sale of 2019, the oneday February NH Sale, produced highly satisfying returns - the median that matched 2018’s figure of €7,500, and an increased average of €11,516 (1%).

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

The 36-lot larger catalogue produced an increased aggregate and the best on record for a one-day February NH Sale of €1,911,600 (+3%).

The day’s top-priced foal was a colt by the leading British-based sire Kayf Tara (Lot 257). He was bred and sold by Rahinston Stud and is the first foal out of the Kalanisi mare Molo, a half-sister to the farm’s star performer Banjaxed Girl.

“He was a stand-out,” said purchaser Katie Rudd, who had to go to €62,000 to acquire the Februaryborn colt. “He is by a very good sire and has a very good pedigree.”

Joey Logan Bloodstock spent €60,000 on a Shantou colt out of the Oscar mare Ned’s Joy, an own-sister to The Tullow Tank and a half-sister to the Grand National winner Many Clouds (Lot 274) and €48,000 on a colt by Walk In The Park and out of the Listed-winning mare Stephanie Frances (King’s Theatre).

The useful racemare PAKORA ended the sale as the headliner when being knocked down to Ross Doyle of Peter and Ross Doyle Bloodstock for €80,000. Consigned by Willie Mullins’ Closutton Stables, the six-year-old daughter of Gentlewave won the Listed Colm Quinn BMW Novice Hurdle at Galway and is an own sister to PAGERA (Lot 326).

KEENELAND BROADENS 2019 APRIL SALE TO INCLUDE HORSES OF RACING AGE Keeneland has announced the expansion of its 2019 April Sale, which traditionally features two-yearolds in training, to include horses of racing age.

The April Sale is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9th, immediately following the Spring Meet opening weekend that kicks off Thursday, April 4th.

Headlining the nine stakes that weekend are the $1 million Toyota Blue Grass and $500,000 Central Bank Ashland, both classic prep races.

“Keeneland’s Spring Meet is a convergence of horsemen heading home from their winter bases,” Keeneland Vice President of Racing and Sales Bob Elliston said. “The addition of a horses of racing age component to the April Sale complements our racing program and offers variety to buyers in town for opening weekend.”

Entry deadline for the online horses of racing age catalogue is Friday, March 15th. Supplemental entries will be accepted after that deadline.

Entries for the two-year-olds in training catalogue close on Saturday, February 2nd.

Keeneland conducted the April Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale from 1993-2014. The sale has been on hiatus since 2015. At the 2014 April Sale, future champions Lady Eli and Roy H were sold.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES

SHOWCASING COLT TOPS DAY ONE OF GOFFS FEBRUARY SALE A trio of six figure purchases were the highlight of Day 1 of the Goffs February Sale, a session dedicated to weanlings. Trickledown Stud provided the sales topper with their son of Showcasing, the first foal out of the Listed winner and Group placed mare Porthilly (Lot 248), that sold to Stauffenberg Bloodstock for €120,000.

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

Tara Stud provided another of the stand outs of the day’s trade as their Lope De Vega filly (Lot 206) was knocked down to Cathy Grassick of Brian Grassick Bloodstock at €100,000. Out of a Stakes performer, the filly is a half-sister to the winner and Group placed Dream Mover as well as Listed winner Taper Tantrum.

The first to reach the €100,000 mark was Ballintry Stud’s Sea The Stars colt out of the Champion Italian 2yo Fly On The Night (Lot 104A ) who was bought by Avaz Ismoilov, one of his seven purchases.

LAWMAN FILLY FROM FAMILY OF ISLINGTON TOPS FINAL DAY OF GOFFS FEBRUARY SALE Two fillies from the Baroda & Colbinstown Studs draft took the top two spots on the second and final day of Goffs February Sale. First up was Lot 298, a two year old daughter of Lawman out of an own sister to Champion filly Islington as well as Group winners New Morning and Greek Dance. She was sold for €110,000 to Moran Stud Farm who also

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Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

secured the next highest priced lot of day when going to €95,000 for the winning Teofilo mare Myopic (Lot 380), a half-sister to Listed winning filly Twitch and sold in foal to Kodiac.

First Spirit (Lot 389), a four year old mare by First Defence out of the Listed winner Choice Spirit and from the immediate family of Group 1 Prix Jean Romanet winner Announce, provided another highlight on Day 2 when selling to Goffs Scandinavian agent Filip Zwicky for €80,000.

Consigned by Grenane House Stud, she is in foal to Zoffany.

Mick Flanagan earlier went to €75,000 for Vrai (Lot 318), a three year old Dark Angel half-sister to Group 2 winner and Group 1 placed Lilbourne Lad from Baroda & Colbinstown, while the same price was also made by Glebe House Stables’ Group 3 winner and Irish Derby placed Stellar Mass (Lot 333). The Sea The Stars colt was bought by BBA Ireland.

GRACIOUSLY HEADS MORATALLA DISPERSAL ON DAY 1 OF ARQANA FEBRUARY MIXED SALE The first day of the February Mixed Sale offered two dispersals of major significance: the first stage of the Exors of the late Marquesa de Moratalla, presented

by The Channel Consignment, and the conclusion of the dispersal of prominent Lebanese owner Issam Fares consigned by his Haras de Manneville.

Such outstanding drafts propelled figures for the opening session way clear of last year’s, with the aggregate reaching €3,927,500 and a clearance rate of 86%. The average settled at €22,572.

Exors of the late Marquesa de Moratalla dispersal

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April 2019

A classical landscape fit for thoroughbreds.

PE A R L S ECR E T GR.2 WINNING SPRINTER BY SPEED SIRE COMPTON PLACE CONSISTENT 5F STAKES WINNER Won 3 Group/Stakes races and twice Gr.1 placed, all over 5f.

OUT OF A 5F STAKES WINNING MARE From the family of Dutch Art. Sold to Jamie Railton x2, Tally-Ho Stud, Norris/Huntingdon, Paul Murphy, Redwall Bloodstock, Star Bloodstock, etc.

FIRST FOALS IN 2018 ARE REAL GEMS

AVERAGING OVER 4X HIS STUD FEE

Sold to Jamie Railton Sales Agency, consigned by Glashare 42,000gns House Stud Colt ex TATTERSALLS

Ermine And Velvet

Sold to Torard House Stud, consigned by Salcey Forest Stud

26,000gns

Colt ex Indigo Beat

TATTERSALLS

Sold to Tally-Ho Stud, consigned by Bucklands €40,000 Farm & Stud Colt ex GOFFS Kirunavaara

€28,000

Colt ex Mastoora

Sold to Old McDonnell Farm B/S, consigned by Nanallac Stud GOFFS

Sold to Jamie Railton Sales Agency, consigned by Salcey Forest Stud €20,000 GOFFS

Fee: £4,000 1st October

Chapel Stud Ltd Chapel Lane, Bransford, Worcestershire WR6 5JQ 01452 717 342 www.chapelstud.co.uk

Colt ex Mothers Finest

Roisin Close

Daniel Creighton

07738 279 071

07597 945 219

roisin@chapelstud.co.uk

NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES The 10 fillies and mare offered by Alban Chevalier du Fau’s Channel Consignment grossed €1,080,000 and averaged €37,500.

GRACIOUSLY (lot 119), the winner of three races, closely related to four top performers and offered in foal to Invincible Spirit was the star act of the dispersal. The daughter of Shamardal exceeded all expectations when commanding a sale-topping €500,000.

She is a half sister to GIOFRA who won the Falmouth Stakes and produced the top-priced yearling of the Arqana 2017 August Yearling Sale, a Dubawi colt who was knocked down for €1,550,000.

Despite bids sparking from all corners of the ring, it was Larissa Kneip of Artemis Bloodstock who eventually signed the docket and commented: “I am still in shock! I bought her for the owner of DSCHINGIS SECRET, Horst Pudwill, who was seeking a top mare to support his stallion. He will send him 25 mares, including seven that I bought at the latest Arqana Breeding Stock Sale. Graciously has all the qualities that we are looking for and her dam line will cross very well with Dschingis Secret.

Her Invincible Spirit offspring will be offered for sale and we hope that it can pay back for part of the amount spent on this purchase!”

Germany’s Champion three-year-old and fouryear-old, DSCHINGIS SECRET claimed some significant scalps in his six Group victories, notably that of HAWKBILL in the Longines Grosser Preis von Berlin, CLOTH OF STARS, TALISMANIC and SATONO DIAMOND in a vintage renewal of the Qatar Prix Foy. He retired at Kneip’s Haras de Saint-Arnoult at the end of his five-year-old campaign last year.

The dispersal had started in style with the €210,000 sale of RECOVER ME (lot 64), a lightlyraced four-year-old daughter of Fastnet Rock out of the Testa Tossa mare Marie Rossa. The athletic grey won impressively at third asking in the care of Alain de Royer-Dupré and was only narrowly beaten for third place in the Prix Tantieme at Saint-Cloud on her most recent start, November 23rd.

Jean-Pierre Dubois, bidding from the restaurant, sealed the deal with a bid of €210,000 and said: “She’s been bought on behalf of Michel Zerolo and will go into training with Jean-Claude Rouget

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but I don’t know in whose colours yet.”

Issam Fares dispersal The 42 mares, horses in training, short yearlings and two-year-olds offered by Haras de Manneville as part of the dispersal of Issam Fares’s operation returned an aggregate of €1,651,000 for an average price of €39,310.

Lot 98, a bay yearling filly from the Haras de Manneville dispersal was knocked down to Anna Sundstrom under High Valley Equine. She is the fourth foal out of BAINO ROCK, winner of the Prix Charles Laffitte at Chantilly and placed in the Prix Fille de l’Air, herself a half-sister to Prix de Pomone heroine BAINO HOPE. GLOBAL ROCK, a yet unraced three-year-old full brother to this yearling, commanded the same price tag at the 2017 August Yearling Sale and is now in training with Ed Dunlop in Newmarket.

“She is a carbon copy of Laurens ! She has the same walk and the same character. When I saw her yesterday, I knew she was the one,” the Swedish-born enthused Hot on the heels of her yearling half-sister, BAINOLAND (lot 96), the first foal out of the top class stayer Baino Hope, commanded €10,000 more when going the way of Jean-Claude Rouget for €190,000. The daughter of Oasis Dream is already in training with the leading professional and will race for a partnership as Rouget indicated.

Minutes earlier, a Camelot yearling filly (lot 95) who is the second foal out of Prix de Pomone heroine BAINO HOPE, went the way of Haras des Capucines’s Eric Puerari on a final bid of €160,000.

“She has a lot of quality about her and I am very fond of Camelot, said Puerari. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to buy such a classy filly. She’s been bought with a group of friends and will be re-offered later in the year.”

SOLID DAY 2 ROUNDS OFF OUTSTANDING RENEWAL OF ARQANA FEBRUARY MIXED SALE The overall sale returned a gross of €5,289,000 (including private sales) and an average price of €14,922.

Pair of mares in foal to Le Havre dominate the bidding

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April 2019

BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS It was Cathy Grassick (Brian Grassick Bloodstock) who offered the winning bid of €72,000 on behalf of Yvonne Jacques of Carisbrooke Stud for MARK OF AN ANGEL (lot 368). Herself Groupplaced in Ireland, she has produced QUEEN BLOSSOM, a dual winner in America and Ireland and multiple Listed place-getter. Presented by Fairway Consignment the mare was offered in foal to Le Havre.

SALAMON (Lot 381) attracted interest from all around the ring but Eric Feurtet the founder of Domain Rymska had the last word when offering €56,000 for the daughter of Montjeu. Feurtet bred subsequent multiple graded winner RYMSKA a daughter of Le Havre and has developed a breeding operation named after her.

SALAMON is a proven broodmare from the famous Lagardere family of FRAGRANT MIX and has produced three winners, among which the black type performer Saane, also by Le Havre. She was offered carrying once again to the Monfort & Préaux flagship sire.

Eric Feurtet commented: “She will join my broodmare band which consists of 16 mares, all bought here at Arqana. She is in foal to Le Havre, who has been very lucky for me as he is the sire of Rymska, the first horse I ever bred. I also have horses in training with Carlos and Yann Lerner, including Rymska’s 3-year-old sister.”

As proceedings drew to a close, Executive Director Freddy Powell shared his thoughts on the sale: “First we would like to highlight the great effort of both Haras de Manneville and Channel Consignment teams to bring the horses in perfect shape. Those two dispersals brought a lot of international actors to Deauville and this large attendance was felt over the two sessions.

Obviously, the figures are not comparable with last year, but we are very happy with the clearance rate of 84%. Despite a larger catalogue, over 70 extra horses changed hands. The value attained by the big lots was particularly satisfying and unlike what happened at Twickenham last Sunday the French players tackled the international opposition on most of them.”

FABULOUS FEBRUARY FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW AT TATTERSALLS CHELTENHAM

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

Tattersalls Cheltenham 2019 sales season opened with fabulous results at the Cheltenham February Sale. The joint second highest price for a point to pointer was recorded for the consecutive year of £410,000. The sale concluded with an increased median of £66,000 (+2%), an exceptional average of £101,680 and an aggregate of £2,542,000. The clearance rate concluded on 71%.

The star of the show was Cormac Farrell’s Sholokhov four-year-old Wide Receiver. The Sholokhov gelding impressed at Cragmore when taking the four-year-old maiden by eight-lengths and this was duly noted by his audience. Bidding was between agents Tom Malone and Harold Kirk and it was Malone, who was determined to land the winner, signing the docket along with trainer Gordon Elliott for £410,000 (Lot 36). Wide Receiver made a tidy profit for his connections; he was bought at the Derby Sale just eight months previous for €25,000.

Kirk however did not leave the sales arena empty handed. Earlier in the sale, he was successful in purchasing the next two highest priced lots.

Entered as a wild card after his 15-length winning performance at Knockanard, Colin Bowe’s Ferny Hollow, a four-year-old by Westerner was knocked down to Kirk and Irish Champion Trainer Willie Mullins for €300,000 (Lot 34). Kirk and Mullins also secured Donnchadh Doyle’s Deploy The

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES Getaway, a four-year-old Getaway who produced a 20-length victory at Tallow for £200,000 (Lot 17).

Trainer Evan Williams had to go to £200,000 to secure Lot 31, Pat Doyle’s Fado Des Brosses, a Balko four-year-old who took the four-year-old Maiden at Belharbour by a wide margin of 15 lengths.

At the conclusion of the sale, Director of Horses in Training Sales Richard Pugh commented; “It is a true testament to this sale that for the second year running it sells the joint second highest priced point to pointer on record. But these results don’t come without the success on the track which has been evident by recent graduates. Just 12 months previous, the current Cheltenham Champion Bumper favourite Envoi Allen was purchased at this sale.”

FIRST MARES SCANNED IN FOAL TO ROARING LION

One Falmouth Stakes heroine Giofra and has at least another seven Group One-winning mares to cover in his first breeding season, including; Lightening Pearl, Just The Judge, Simple Verse, Bateel and Golden Lilac.

The team at Tweenhills are very happy with the way all six Qatar Racing stallions are covering but are especially pleased with Roaring Lion.

David Redvers, Qatar Racing Manager and Owner and Manager of Tweenhills, said: “In everything Roaring Lion has done so far he has excelled and therefore it is no surprise to see that his first three mares have all been scanned in foal.

He is having a busy season but has taken to his new role with aplomb.”

Roaring Lion’s fee for 2019 is £40,000 (Oct 1st SLF).

The Qatar Racing stallion roster includes record breaking first season sire Zoustar, Group 1 Sussex Stakes winner Lightning Spear, the returning leading British based first season sire Charm Spirit, permanent residents Hot Streak and Havana Gold, and four-time Group 1 winner and Cartier Horse of the Year Roaring Lion.

PHENOMENAL RESULTS AT THE BEST EVER CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL SALE

Image supplied by Tweenhills stud

Roaring Lion, World Champion three-year-old of 2018 and Cartier Horse Of The Year, who stands at Tweenhills, has taken to stallion duties with ease and has had his first mares scanned in foal, including Qatar Racing-owned Common Knowledge.

Common Knowledge is the dam of dual Stakes winners Astrophysical Jet and Coral Wave and boasts a strong pedigree herself; her granddam was blue hen Highclere - dam of the great Height Of Fashion, who foaled Nayef, Nashwan and Unfuwain.

Roaring Lion has already been visited by Group

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The Tattersalls Cheltenham Festival Sale recorded the best ever results on record producing a set of statistics unrivalled with any other edition.

The aggregate resulted in £3,410,000 (+7%) the median finished on £150,000 (+2%) and the average concluded on £162,381 (+3%).

The star of the show was Patrick Turley’s mare My Whirlwind. The four-year-old made a lasting impression between the flags when taking the Mares Maiden at Ballycahane. This followed through in the ring with trainer Nicky Henderson signing the docket for the highest priced point to point mare on record of £400,000 (Lot 9).

Donnchadh Doyle trained the aptly named Bravemansgame to win the four-year-old Maiden at Lingstown by an impressive eight length. A €48,000 Derby Sale purchase, agent Tom Malone and trainer

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS

Image supplied by Tattersalls Cheltenham

Paul Nicholls recognised the potential in this son of Brave Mansonnien and resulted in them paying £370,000 to secure the gelding (Lot 12).

Another impressive pupil of Donnchadh Doyle, Farouk D’Alene destroyed opposition when winning the four-year-old Maiden at Belclare by 18 lengths just last weekend. A son of Racinger, the debut winner who is from the family of Triolo D’Alene was knocked down to Margaret O’Toole and Gordon Elliott for £260,000 (Lot 22).

At the conclusion of the sale, Director of Horses in Training Sales Richard Pugh commented; “Tonight’s trade was phenomenal. It was such a thrill to sell the highest priced point to point mare on record, but the rewards tonight just kept coming. 14 horses made £100,000 or more and produced an exceptional clearance rate of 91% with 21 of the 23 horses going through the ring selling.

This sale’s stage is second to none; the atmosphere, the excitement and adrenalin witnessed in this very winner’s enclosure was magically mirrored at tonight’s sale and we wish vendors and purchasers alike, the very best of luck.”

SONRU TOPS TATTERSALLS ASCOT MARCH SALE Tattersalls Ascot March Sale concluded with a top price of £50,000 and an impressive clearance rate of 82% with 126 of the 154 horses offered sold. The aggregate concluded on £936,300, the median on £3,500 and the average on £7,258.

Sonru impressed with his 25-length victory in the five-year-old Geldings Maiden at Turtulla for Donnchadh Doyle. The son of Jeremy fetched the highest price of the day selling to Melbourne 10 Racing for £50,000. The gelding will head to upcoming trainer Christian Williams (Lot 119).

Pearl Royale won on three occasions, a win over hurdles and twice a winner over fences including Listed Mares’ Chase at Carlisle, trained by Nigel Hawke. The Robin des Champs mare was knocked down to Thorne Farm Racing for £42,000 (Lot 77).

Whatsupwithyou has shown consistency throughout his career to date having won and being placed on two of his three outings. By the highly regarded Shantou and consigned by Denis Murphy, the five-year-old will head to Cheltenham Festival winning trainer Ben Pauling having signed for him for £35,000 (Lot 128).

Image supplied by Tattersalls Ascot

At the conclusion of the sale, Director of Horses in Training Sales Richard Pugh commented; “Today’s sale has been well supported by Irish and UK vendors and has offered purchasers the opportunity to buy all categories of bloodstock.

We welcomed a broad bench of purchasers, both domestic and international with countries represented including Germany, Poland, Sweden, The Netherlands, Jersey and Libya. Today’s results measured well against last years and it was really pleasing to produce a clearance rate of 82% along with a top price of £50,000. We now look forward to the first European Two-Year-Old Breeze Up Sale of 2019 here at Ascot in just under two weeks’ time which offers a reduced catalogue of 91 lots.”

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HIGHLIGHTS A LOOK AHEAD

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

A LOOK AHEAD TO APRIL HIGHLIGHTS April gets underway with the three-day Grand National Festival at Aintree from April 4th to 6th. The highlight is the Grand National, can Tiger Roll make it back to back victories?

Saturday, April 6th, is also an important date in the Irish racing calendar. Leopardstown stages Classic Trials Day, featuring 1,000 Guineas and 2,000 Guineas trials, plus the important Derby trial the Ballysax Stakes.

Saturday, April 13th, Newbury stages the second day of its Greenham Meeting, where Classic aspirations will be on the line in the Fred Darling Stakes and Greenham Stakes, with Europe’s 2018 top two year old, Too Darn Hot, expected to return to action.

On the same day, Ayr plays host to Scottish Grand National Day, with a strong supporting card.

The following week, Newmarket stages the Craven Meeting, from April 16th to 18th, with more Classic hopes in the Nell Gwyn Stakes and Craven Stakes and a host of supporting Pattern races and intriguing maidens.

April 19th is Good Friday and that means All-Weather Championships Finals Day at Lingfield Park. Will the winter’s outstanding all-weather performer, Wissahickon, add further glory to his CV?

Image supplied by Arena Racing Company

From Sunday 21st to Tuesday 23rd April, Fairyhouse stages its Irish Grand National Meeting, with the big racing taking place on Easter Monday.

The following day, racing returns to Epsom Downs for the Derby Trial.

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A LOOK AHEAD HIGHLIGHTS On April 26th, Sandown Park hosts the first day of its important dual code two-day meeting. On Friday, the flat performers take centre stage with Bet365 Classic Trial Day, featuring the Group 3 bet365 Classic Trial and the Group 2 bet365 Mile. Then on Saturday 27th, the action switches to the Jumps Finale as the 2018/19 National Hunt Season comes to a close with the crowning of Champion Jockey and Trainer and the Grade One Celebration Mile, won last year

by Altior, plus the Bet365 Gold Cup. © www.healyracing.ie

Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

Friday, May 3rd, there are two more Grade One contests, including the Punchestown Champion Hurdle. The Festival concludes on Saturday, May 4th, with two more Grade One events for mares and juvenile hurdlers.

Saturday May 4th also sees the start of Newmarket’s twoday Qipco Guineas Festival, with the opening day highlight the Qipco 2,000 Guineas, won in 2018 by Saxon Warrior.

The chief supporting races are the Jockey Club Stakes and the Palace House Stakes.

April 30th sees the opening day of the 2019 Punchestown Festival, with three Grade One races, headlined by the BoyleSports Champion Chase over two miles.

MAY HIGHLIGHTS

The following day, Wednesday, May 1st, Punchestown continues with three more Grade One contests, including the Punchestown Gold Cup, won in 2018 by Bellshill.

That same day, sees Ascot host its inaugural Royal Ascot Trial Day, with the feature race the Group Three Sagaro Stakes.

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On Sunday, May 5th, Newmarket’s feature is the Qipco 1,000 Guineas, won in 2018 by Billesdon Brook. The chief supporting races are the Pretty Polly Stakes, a renowned Oaks trial and the Group Two Dahlia Stakes.

© www.healyracing.ie

Thursday 2nd, Punchestown has two more Grade One races, the Champion Stayers’ Hurdle, won by Faugheen last year, and the Ryanair Novice Chase over two miles. course-specialist.co.uk

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HIGHLIGHTS A LOOK AHEAD On Monday 6th May, the Curragh stages an important card full of pattern races and big names, featuring the Moorebridge Stakes (Group 2), Athasi Stakes (Group 3), Tetrarch Stakes (Listed and Polonia Stakes (Listed).

Wednesday 8th to 10th May sees Chester stage it’s May Meeting. A host of Pattern races and Classic trials will throw up clues for Epsom, including the Cheshire Oaks, Chester Vase, Dee Stakes and Ormonde Stakes.

Saturday 11th, Haydock Park stages the Swinton Handicap Hurdle, while Lingfield Park hosts its Derby and Oaks Trials. The following day, Ireland’s chief Derby hopefuls will most likely line-up in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial.

Sunday, May 12th also sees the start of the Killarney Festival.

Meanwhile at ParisLongchamp, Sunday May 12th sees the first French Classics of the year, the Poule d’Essais Des Poulains and the Poule d’Essai Des Pouliches, the French 2,000 and 1,000 Guineas.

From Wednesday, May 15th to Friday 17th, York gets it 2019 campaign underway with the important Dante Festival.

Highlights include the Duke Of York Stakes, Yorkshire Cup, Musidora Stakes and Dante Stakes.

Saturday 18th, Newbury hosts Group One action with the Lockinge Stakes, won in 2018 by Rhododendron.

© www.healyracing.ie

JUNE HIGHLIGHTS June 1st is Investec Derby Day at Epsom Downs. Who will follow in the footsteps of Masar, the 2018 winner?

The Classic action continues on Sunday, June 2nd, at Chantilly, with the Prix du Jockey Club, better known as the French Derby.

Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

Saturday 25th May, Haydock Park hosts the Temple Stakes, while the same day and Sunday 26th May, the Curragh stages the first Irish Classics of the year, the Irish 1,000 Guineas and 2,000 Guineas, plus the Group One Tattersalls Gold Cup, for older horses.

May ends on a major note, as on Friday 31st, Epsom stages the Investec Oaks and the Group One Coronation Cup, won in 2018 by Cracksman.

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A LOOK AHEAD HIGHLIGHTS On Sunday, June 16th, Chantilly stages one of the big days in the French racing calendar, the Prix de Diane (French Oaks), which Laurens won in 2018.

Highlights include the Queen Anne Stakes, King’s Stand Stakes, St James’s Palace Stakes, Prince Of Wales’s Stakes, Gold Cup, Commonwealth Cup, Coronation Stakes (won by Alpha Centauri in 2018) and Diamond Jubilee Stakes.

© AJ Byles

© www.healyracing.ie

All eyes then turn to Royal Ascot, which runs from Tuesday 18th, June to Saturday, June 22nd.

Saturday, June 29th, the Curragh stages the Irish Derby, to end a dramatic month of Classics and Group One races.

Image supplied by www.darleyeurope.com

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