Course specialist january 2017 pages

JANUARY 2017

Thistlecrack leaps from novice to King George winner PEARL SECRET: THE JOURNEY FROM SALES RING TO STALLION

JAMIE SNOWDEN TALKS TRAINING

HIPOTOURS: A VISIT TO LA ZARZUELA IN MADRID

INSIDE

COURSE SPECIALIST 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLT REVIEW

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EDITOR’S WELCOME

Welcome to the January 2017 issue of Course Specialist magazine.

Here is wishing you all a fulfilling and prosperous New Year!

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his month’s issue includes our in-depth review of 2016’s two year old colts, in which Aidan O’Brien once again provided the leading juvenile in Churchill.

We pay a visit to Lambourn and meet Jamie Snowden, who provides some interesting perspective on the role of the trainer.

We also travel to La Zarzuela Racecourse in Madrid, where jockey Claudine Cazalis outlines the Hipotour experience and discusses the state of Spanish racing.

Meanwhile, in a quiet corner of Gloucestershire, crack sprinter Pearl Secret is settling in well to his new role as stallion, aiming to emulate his hugely successful sire Compton Place. We catch up with John Dance, part of the team that purchased Pearl Secret, to learn what happened after he went through the sales ring and what hopes he has for his brand new stallion.

With our usual look back at a busy month from UK and Ireland, plus a review of all the action from Hong Kong’s end of year extravaganza, out bloodstock and sales news, not to mention our look ahead to January’s top action, we hope that you will enjoy this issue of Course Specialist!

With best wishes,

Andrew Pelis Editor and Publisher

EDITOR & PUBLISHER Andrew Pelis PHOTOGRAPHERS Steven Cargill Pat Healy www.healyracing.ie Mark Cranham www.cranhamphoto.com A.J. Byles Toby Connors Jimmy Clark PRODUCTION Follow Creative www.followcreative.com Tim Colman, Kasey Moore Posterity IT ON THE COVER Thistlecrack leaps to King George VI Chase victory © Steven Cargill

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.

Copyright 2016 © Andrew Pelis

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FEATURE THISTLECRACK

© Steven Cargill

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THISTLECRACK FEATURE

THISTLECRACK MAKES THE LEAP FROM NOVICE TO KING GEORGE WINNER

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he gamble to pitch Thistlecrack in against the best of the British chasing crop paid off, as the inexperienced novice left hearts in mouths with a mercurial round of jumping from the front, to win the Grade 1 32Red.com King George VI Chase at Kempton Park this afternoon.

Disappointingly only five horses lined-up for this prestigious race, with no runners from Ireland or France.

Much of the build-up centred on the Colin Tizzard pair, last year’s winner Cue Card and the unbeaten winner of three novice chases, Thistlecrack, although Silviniaco Conti was bidding for a third win.

At the tapes it was Thistlecrack, the World Hurdle winner, who led from Silviniaco Conti, but the latter went on at the second fence, with the front pair a couple of lengths ahead of Josses Hill to the inside of Cue Card and then Tea For Two, who had given the rest of the field a couple of lengths lead at the start.

Silviniaco Conti, sporting a visor, continued to lead from Thistlecrack, with the other three virtually matching strides.

Racing down the home straight for the first time, Silviniaco Conti led from Thistlecrack, with Cue Card and Tea For Two and Josses Hill.

© Steven Cargill

Thistlecrack just edged into the lead at the fence in front of the stands and as the crowd roared its approval, the quintet set off with a circuit to race.

At the first down the back, Thistlecrack led and his stable mate Cue Card took closer order in second, with Silviniaco Conti third and Tea For Three closing. Thistlecrack stood off the open ditch in spectacular style, but Tea For Two and Cue Card kept close tabs on him.

Cue Card came to join Thistlecrack, with Tea For Two between the pair, as SIlviniaco Conti and Josses Hill began to flounder.

Four out and Tea For Two tired and the crucial moment of the race unfolded soon afterwards.

Tom Scudamore asked his mount to increase the tempo and all of a sudden Thistlecrack opened up on Cue Card and turned for home 8 lengths clear, leaping spring-heeled over the third last.

Two from home and the novice was in a lot closer to his fence, but safely negotiated it, still well clear of Cue Card, with Josses Hill staying on.

At the last Thistlecrack was deliberate but got to the other side and whilst the other four all closed, he was never in danger of being caught.

Thistlecrack and Tom Scudamore, with power and stamina in abundance, sauntered to a comfortable victory.

There was a tremendous scrap for second, with Cue Card just inching out Silviniaco Conti and Tea For Three, as Josses Hill came home fifth.

However, this was a remarkable triumph, a ninth on the spin, for the Colin Tizzard trained 8 year old, having just the fourth start of his career over fences, having only made his debut two months ago.

Despite his inexperience and occasionally sketchy jumping, the engine was never in doubt and he negotiated this test with some aplomb.

In winning, Thistlecrack was denying his stable mate Cue Card the Jockey Clubs’ Chasing Triple Crown, although the

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FEATURE THISTLECRACK

proximity of Silviniaco Conti and Tea For Two might lead some to question whether Cue Card was at his very best here.

It would appear almost a certainty now that Thistlecrack will head to the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March, although as his stable mate found out last year, the jumping test there, where he will take on the cream of the Irish chasing fraternity, is a vastly different experience.

Tizzard, who had earlier won the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase with Royal Vacation, said: “That is the most nerveracking thing I’ve ever watched. Especially when they came together a fair way out. In the end it was just lovely and a fantastic performance by both horses.”

On the decision to tackle the King George rather than stick to the novice route, Tizzard said: “He’s not a five or six-yearold, he is eight and he’ll be nine in a few days’ time. He’s at the peak of his powers and he’s just proved we all got it right.

“We’ve all seen Thistlecrack for the last few years, he’s had

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his biggest test and he’s a brilliant horse.

“When he was long he was standing off and Tom was being a bit careful at the second-last and he shortened up almost like a show jumper - he never touched a twig. He’s got everything you’d want in a racehorse.”

He added: “Cue Card could have cried enough at the last, but he stuck his head out and finished second, so it’s brilliant.”

Thistlecrack could now cement his Gold Cup claims in the Cotswold Chase at Prestbury Park on January 28, but Cue Card looks set to head straight for the blue riband.

Tizzard said: “I suspect you’ll see Thistlecrack in the race at Cheltenham, I would have thought, just for experience really. Cue Card is nearly 11 and perhaps we’ll leave him for the Gold Cup, but that could change.”

Although Scudamore has tasted victories at the top level before, it was clear where this success sat among them.

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THISTLECRACK FEATURE

© Steven Cargill

He said: “It was a tremendous thrill and a great honour.

I was delighted with him and it’s a wonderful effort to win a King George in your fourth race over fences. It just shows you are dealing with a very special racehorse.

“I don’t think I’ve ever celebrated one before (before the line), it was just all the emotions pouring out there. I’m so proud of him. The day couldn’t have got any better as I met Lawrence Dallaglio (former England rugby union star) as well!”

He went on: “Without a shadow of a doubt that is my best win as it is one of the Classics of jump racing. He’s a phenomenal racehorse, he’s a pleasure to ride and a great credit to everyone. Between myself, my father (Peter) and grandfather (Michael) we’ve had about 3,000 winners and he’s the best one of the lot.”

Brennan was magnanimous in defeat.

He said: “You want to win, but some things are impossible and trying to beat that racehorse today was one of the most

impossible things I’ve ever tried to do. You can make all the excuses in the world, but it’s a long time since I’ve ridden against a horse like that.”

Looking ahead to a potential rematch in the Gold Cup, the jockey added: “It would be nice, but I’m very realistic and we’d need a lot of things to go right on the day. But on a bit softer ground, I won’t give up hope.”

As for Silviniaco Conti, his trainer Paul Nicholls pointed to a trip to Ascot in February as his next port of call. .

He said: “That was probably one of his best runs in the last year or two. Another stride and he would have been second.

“He has just lost that little bit of pace. He stayed on really strongly and kept at all the way through. If you are talking about Aintree, what a Grand National trial.

“Two-mile-five might be sharp enough for him but if the ground was like it was last year, then on that run that is where he is highly likely to go.”

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NEWS UK RACING

UN DE SCEAUX LANDS A THRILLING TINGLE CREEK CHASE In a thrilling finish Irish star Un De Sceaux had to pull out all the stops to deny dual winner Sire De Grugy in the Grade 1 Betfair Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown Park this afternoon.

A field of six went to post for this two mile classic, with Ar Mad, successful in the Grade 1 Henry VIII Novices’ Chase on this day, a year ago, but returning from surgery, setting a strong early gallop.

However, as the pace began to tell, Ar Mad made some serious errors and Un De Sceaux and Ruby Walsh moved to the head of affairs, tracked

by Sire De Grugy and God’s Own, while Ar Mad and Vibrato Valtat were still in contention and Sir Valentino had found the pace too hot.

Turning for home, Sire De Grugy kept the pressure on the Irish raider and mistakes at the last two fences did not help the cause of Un De SCeaux, as the two-time winner threw down the gauntlet, the pair drawing ahead of God’s Own. However, the Willie Mullins runner found extra reserves on his seasonal return and saw off the game Sire De Grugy, with Walsh waving his stick high and proud as he crossed the winning line after a tremendous battle up the Sandown Park hill. God’s Own stayed on gamely for third, with Ar Mad running a super race off a lay-off, for fourth.

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Walsh said: “It’s a great race to be part of and I’ve ridden some wonderful horses in it, I’ve been very lucky.

“Being the champion that he is, Sire De Grugy served it up to us, I got back on top going to the last and when I got hold of him he started to rally all the way to the line, and he’s won over further.

“This horse wears his heart on his sleeve, he just has that natural will to win.

“It’s brilliant. He’s a pleasure to ride.”

ALTIOR SUPREME IN THE HENRY VIII NOVICES’ CHASE Altior put up a powerful, sparkling performance as he was properly tested in the Grade 1 Racing Post Henry VIII Novices’ Chase at Sandown Park.

The brilliant Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner of last season had won a match race on his chasing debut at Kempton Park recently, but faced some impressive novice chase winners here and for the first time was asked to jump fences with other horses around him.

Marracudja jumped off in front of Charbel who slightly over-pitched at the first, with Altior settled about three lengths behind these two and putting in a massive jump at the second fence, while Max Ward settled at the back of the field.

Racing down the back, Marracudja and Charbel continued to lead by a few lengths from Altior

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UK RACING NEWS and Max Ward, with the front two putting up a spectacular jumping display, although Noel Fehily moved Altior closer.

Charbel continued to hassle the leader over the Railway fences, as Altior crept closer and he was poised behind the leaders heading to the Pond Fence, while Max Ward was a few lengths further back.

Charbel was the first to commit and took the

second last a couple of lengths ahead, with Altior stalking him.

Altior jumped the last the better and poured it on with the jumping out of the way, powering clear by six lengths for a most impressive win. Charbel showed his potential here, while Max Ward stated on nicely, to snatch third from Marracudja.

All roads surely lead to the Arkle Trophy for Nicky Henderson’s latest star.

Winning jockey Fehily said: “I thought he was very good in the second half of the race, he launched at the ditch the first time and he launched at one down the back, but I spent so much time trying to switch him off that maybe I might have let him go a bit cold on me.

“When I switched him back on he jumped great the second half. I was most impressed with him going to the last, I was a length down, he winged it and in two strides he was three lengths clear.

“I thought it was very impressive.”

VIEUX LION ROUGE STOPS A HIGHLAND LODGE BECHER DOUBLE Vieux Lion Rouge collared last year’s winner Highland Lodge in the final strides to land the Betfred Becher Handicap Chase at Aintree.

Highland Lodge was always prominent and looked like becoming the first horse to take this race two years in a row, but Tom Scudamore and Vieux Lion Rouge sneaked up the rail to snatch the spoils.

It was tough luck on Highland Lodge’s connections, particularly jockey Henry Brooke who has only recently returned to action after suffering injuries that left him in an induced coma less than two months ago.

Beeves and Highland Lodge cut out the running and the latter kept on gamely as the race hotted up after the third-last fence.

The Jimmy Moffatt-trained Highland Lodge landed in front over the last and only gave way close to the line as Vieux Lion Rouge claimed the prize over the Grand National fences for the David Pipe team.

Highland Lodge was a length ahead of National runner-up The Last Samuri in third place, with Ucello Conti fourth.

There was early drama with Saint Are and Ziga Boy coming down at the first fence, while Alvarado and Cogry exited at the second. Other casualties included Milborough, Dare To Endeavour and The Young Master.

MANY CLOUDS DELIVERS A WARMING VICTORY FOR APPRECIATIVE AINTREE CROWD Many Clouds made a winning return to action at the scene of his greatest career triumph, as he fought on tenaciously to land the Listed Betfred Lotto ‘£100K Cash Giveaway’ Chase.

The 2015 Grand National hero was last seen struggling home in this year’s renewal, but the combination of soft ground and a wind issue, subsequently rectified, had explained that disappointment.

This contest, on better ground and after a small procedure, showed Many Clouds in a very different light.

Runner-up in this race 12 months ago, Oliver Sherwoood’s nine-year-old enjoyed himself from flagfall as he and jockey Leighton Aspell continued their successful association.

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NEWS UK RACING Le Mercurey kept him company, but it was Minella Rocco who loomed large as the big danger but suffered a heavy fall at the final fence, before mercifully rising to his feet.

Many Clouds did not look finished and maintained the gallop to comfortably hold Le Mercurey by three and a half lengths. Irish Cavalier was third.

AS DE MEE A CLASSY WINNER IN THE GRAND SEFTON AT AINTREE As De Mee put his previous experience to good use over the Grand National fences, as he powered on to a classy victory in the Betfred Grand Sefton Handicap Chase at Aintree.

The six-year-old, owned by Andy Stewart’s family and actress Dame Judi Dench, stamped his authority on the race over the Grand National fences from the penultimate obstacle.

Paul Nicholls’ charge, was up with the pace throughout and galloped on resolutely for Sean Bowen to come home five lengths clear of Seefood.

Henryville was two lengths away in third, with Seventh Sky fourth.

Witness In Court had made the running until falling at the ninth fence with Seventh Sky going on at the Canal Turn, although always harried by As De Mee – and the youngster travelled strongly heading for home and it appeared just a matter of time before he took command.

MESSIRE DES OBEAUX GRINDS HIS WAY TO GRADE 2 SUCCESS AT SANDOWN PARK Messire Des Obeaux gave away weight and age to Ballyandy but showed stamina was his forte as he won the Grade 2 Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle (Registered as the Winter Novices’ Hurdle) at Sandown Park.

Aintree My Dream took the field along through the early stages, tracked by Ballyandy and Coeur Blimey, with the pace fairly sedate.

The Harry Skelton ridden six year old continued

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to set the tempo as the field raced uphill, away from the stands, with Ballyandy and Messire Des Obeaux in close proximity.

Racing to the last flight down the back, Aintree My Dream was still in front with Aspacionado, Ballyandy and Cultivator there and Messire Des Obeaux to the inside, this five drawing away.

Into the home straight, Cultivator and Ballyandy cruied to the front with Messire Des Obeaux in behind and this trio had the race between them at the second last.

Cultivator appeared to have the lead at the last from Ballyandy, but Messire Des Obeaux, a couple of lengths down at the last, was produced

by Daryl Jacob.

On the run-in, Cultivator was the first to crack, as Messire Des Obeaux hit the front and Ballyandy rallied between horses.

Ballyandy stayed on well but just lacked the toe on the final climb, as the four year old Messire Des Obeaux gave him 7 pounds and roughly a half a length defeat.

Messire Des Obeaux was recording a novice hurdles double on the card for trainer Alan King who had scored earlier with the green juvenile Dino Velvet, who had run a promising race before falling at Cheltenham on his debut.

JOSSES HILL IMPRESSES IN THE PETERBOROUGH CHASE Josses Hill embellished trainer Nicky Henderson’s fine record in the Grade 2 Betfred Peterborough Chase with an exuberant pillar to post victory.

With two absentees a quality field of five went to post for the big race of the year at Huntingdon.

Josses Hill and Noel Fehily jumped off in front of Dodging Bullets and Volnay De Thaix, with More Of That settled in fourth, ahead of Tea For Two. At the third fence, Josses Hill made an enormous leap and was again extravagant at the first ditch.

Josses Hill continued to bowl along in front of Dodging Bullet, jumping the ditch in front of the stands, with all five in close order, as they headed out with a circuit to run.

At the tenth fence, the leader put in a beautiful

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UK RACING NEWS leap, but was less fluent at the water jump. To his outside Dodging Bullets raced well, with Tea For Two racing between Volnay De Thaix to the inside and More Of That to the outside.

Three out and Volnay De Thaix came under pressure and started to lose ground.

Up front Josses Hill and Dodging Bullets still travelled well off the front, while More Of That was being nudged along as was Tea For Two. Josses Hill touched down in front at the second last and went further clear at the last, jumping well and going clear of Tea For Two on the run-ion, for an impressive success.

More Of That stayed on past Dodging Bullets, who found little for pressure, for third place.

Josses Hill, an 8 year old now, had made a pleasing return at Kempton Park a month ago.

He was giving Henderson a fifth victory in the Peterborough Chase.

tracks and see where we go.

“I haven’t really made a plan. We’ve been waiting for softer ground, so it was nice to get that and get his first run out of the way.

“It’s a good start to his chasing career and hopefully he’ll improve from it.”

THEATRE GUIDE INCHES TO UNICOIN VICTORY IN A THRILLER The Cheltenham hill provided plenty of drama as the aptly-named Theatre Guide got up to beat Perfect Candidate in a desperately close outcome to the Grade 3 Unicoin Group Handicap Chase at Cheltenham this afternoon.

A dozen lined up for this 3 ¼ mile contest and it was Perfect Candidate who took the field over the first two fences and out into the country for the first time.

CHAMPERS ON ICE IMPRESSES ON CHASING BOW David Pipe is looking forward to seeing how far Champers On Ice can go this season following an impressive start to his chasing career at a foggy Uttoxeter.

The six-year-old won twice from five starts over hurdles last season and was placed on his other three starts behind the high-class trio of Shantou Village, Yanworth and Unowhatimeanharry.

Making his first start since finishing third in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, Champers On Ice was a facile winner against two inferior rivals.

Of the obstacles that could be seen in the gloom, the grey jumped proficiently in the hands of Tom Scudamore and after emerging from the fog in a clear lead rounding the home turn, he comfortably stretched 27 lengths clear.

Runner-up Dueling Banjos was 14 lengths clear of the only other runner, Have A Go Hero.

Pipe said: “We’re pleased. Apart from one mistake he jumped nicely and did what he had to do.

“He does jump a bit left-handed - he did that over hurdles as well - so we’ll stick to left-handed

Racing to the first down the back, Perfect Candidate held a lead of a couple of lengths over A Good Skin, Shutthefrontdoor and Bally Longford.

As the field raced downhill on their first full circuit, Perfect Candidate and A Good Skin continued to dispute the lead from Bally Longford to the inside, while Shutthefrontdoor, Theatre Guide and Southfield Theatre were all in close proximity.

Towards the back, Out Sam had not always been fluent with his jumping and Ballynagour and Regal Encore brought up the rear.

Heading out with a circuit left to race, Perfect Candidate and Conor Shoemark remained at the front but the pack were right on his heels as he cleared the water jump for the final time.

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NEWS UK RACING Cogry sadly hit the deck once again, as the tempo increased.

At the top of the hill Perfect Candidate led but Out Sam took a crashing fall and hampered Ballynagour and Regal Encore who pulled up.

Four out and Bally Longford made a bad mistake.

Perfect Candidate meanwhile took the third last from Theatre Guide, with Bally Longford travelling well to the inside and then A Good Skin, with this four clear of Un Ace. At the second last Bally Longford went on to the inside, with Perfect Candidate plugging on.

Bally Longford took the last clear, but once again the Cheltenham hill came into full effect as the leader began to fade and Perfect Candidate and Theatre Guide both rallied.

The pair passed Bally Longford on the run-in and there was absolutely nothing between then in the final 100 yards.

The two flashed by the post together and after a brief pause, Theatre Guide was announced the winner from Perfect Candidate, with Bally Longford a couple of lengths back in third and cleat of A Good Skin in fourth.

The Colin Tizzard trained Theatre Guide was given a patient ride by Paddy Brennan and was coming back to the sort of form that had seen him place in two Hennessy Gold Cups and win last season’s BetBright Chase.

As the rain fell, Village Vic led Kylemore Lough by a couple of lengths as the field came back onto the main racecourse and he took the seventh with some panache and headed out with a circuit to race.

Racing down the back, Village Vic was outjumped by Kylemore Lough at the first fence, while Sizing Codelco was pulled up before the water jump.

Up front, the order remained the same as the field took the last open ditch, where King’s Odyssey made an error and slithered to the ground.

Village Vic took the last at the top of the hill with Kylemore Lough on his case still and then Aso, Frodon and Bouvreil, with this five clear of Quite By Chance and Aloomomo.

Kylmore Lough made an error four out, while Aloomomo fell.

Turning for home Kylemore Lough went on from Frodon and Bouvreil, as Village Vic tired.

FRODON SHOWS YOUTHFUL EXUBERANCE TO WIN THE CASPIAN CAVIAR GOLD CUP Frodon became the second four year old to win the Grade 3 Caspian Caviar Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Cheltenham today, as he stayed on stoutly up the final climb.

A field of sixteen lined-up for this high class and always competitive contest.

Village Vic jumped off in front of Module at the first, which they all jumped safely.

Village Vic quickly moved a few lengths clear of Kylemore Lough and King’s Odyssey, with Module to the outside and then Bouvreil and Frodon, followed by Quite By Chance and Aloomomo.

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© Steven Cargill

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UK RACING NEWS Racing to the last, Kylemore Lough landed in front, but the four year old Frodon dug in for Sam Twiston-Davis, surging into the lead.

The Paul Nicholls youngster got tired on the final climb as Aso and Village Vic rallied and began to close.

However, the line came in time for Frodon who emulated former stable mate Unioniste in winning this race as a four year old.

Aso stayed on well and finished a fine second at the grand old age of six, just edging out the gallant Village Vic, who battled on having seemed beaten early in the straight, while Quite By Chance finished a close up fourth, just ahead of Kylemore Lough.

WHOLESTONE STAYS WELL TO LAND GRADE 2 CONTEST Wholestone, a fine second at the last Cheltenham meeting, went one place better as he demonstrated his staying ability to land the Grade 2 Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (Registered as The Bristol Novices’ Hurdle) at an increasingly wet Cheltenham.

A field of six novices lined-up for this three mile race, which looked sure to prove a real test of stamina as the going deteriorated.

Ami Desbois went straight into the lead from Anchor Man but the tempo was a sensible one as the field headed down the back straight.

As the field raced down hill for the first time, Ami Desbois continued to lead, but Wholestone came through to press the leader, ahead of Impulsive Star and those three lead racing away from the stands, with a circuit to race.

Amis Desbois still led with three left to jump, tracked by Wholestone (who had made a serious error down the back) and Impulsive Star.

Finally the pace started to increase heading down the hill and West Approach made a bad mistake.

Ami Desbois turned for home still pressed by Wholestone and the four in behind were under pressure.

At the final flight Wholestone inched into the lead but Ami Desbois dug in and fought on tenaciously.

However, with the stands rail to assist,

Wholestone responded well for Daryl Jacob and stayed on to inch his way to victory over the longtime leader Ami Desbois, winning by about a length, with No Hassle Hoff staying on nicely for third, ahead of Impulsive Star.

The Nigel Twiston-Davies trained Wholestone, a 5 year old, was winning for the third time in his last four starts, including victory at the October meeting here.

Present Man a gallant winner of the December Novices Chase Present Man gave Paul Nicholls a quick fire Graded double after Frodon’s earlier Cheltenha success, as he made every yard of the running in the Grade 2 bet365 December Novices’ Chase at Doncaster this afternoon.

Just four lined up for this contest and it was Present Man who went straight into the lead from O O Seven.

As the field raced down the long home straight, Present Man continued to bowl along in front under Jack Sherwood, leading the Irish challenger Bay Of Freedom, with O O Seven third and then Potters Legend.

Racing down the back, Present Man noticeably started to jump to his right, costing him ground, although he continued to lead by a length from Bay Of Freedom.

At the eleventh, the leader again jumped markedly right and clouted the fence, also costing him momentum. However, Present Man forged on and opened up a four length lead at the next.

He took the fifth last ahead of Bay Of Freedom who made an error, as O O Seven cruised into contention.

Into the home straight, Present Man took the fourth last a couple of lengths clear of O O Seven, while Potters Legend, patiently ridden, began to close.

Present Man battled on hard as O O Seven came under pressure two out and the long-time leader was still in front and began to eke out a lead.

He again jumped to his right at the last, as Potters Legend threw down a stern challenge on the inside.

However, Present Man was far from done with and gamely stuck to his guns to win by about 1 ½ lengths from Potters Legend, with O O Seven a rather one-paced third over this longer three mile trip.

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NEWS UK RACING

© Steven Cargill

THE NEW ONE MAKES A TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO LAND HIS THIRD BULA HURDLE The New One returned to action and joined Bird’s Nest and Relkeel as a three-time winner of the Grade 2 Bula Hurdle at Cheltenham this afternoon.

Six horses lined-up for a race remembering one of the great hurdlers of the 1970’s, whose name should not be forgotten.

The New One was gifted an easy lead from flag fall, with Melodic Rendezvous and Old Guard in pursuit at the first flight.

The New One showed plenty of freshness and took the second at a good tempo, three lengths ahead of Old Guard and Melodic Rendezvous, who raced together, just a little way in front of My Tent Or Yours, with Court Minstrel a length further back and then Mister Miyagi.

The New One continued to lead down the back, as My Tent Or Yours moved up menacingly to his outside into second.

Racing to the top of the hill, The New One led

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My Tent Or Yours while Old Guard, having been urged along, took closer order in third. Melodic Rendezvous started to struggle racing downhill.

The New One continued to travel well turning for home, with My Tent Or Yours and Old Guard the only two keeping tabs on hi,.

Down to the last, My Tent Or Yours challenged as Old Guard could find no more. The New One sailed over the last and responded well for Richard Johnson, although he faltered close home, but had plenty in hand to win his third Bula Hurdle.

My Tent Or Yours, in rain-softened ground, just could not pick up, keeping on at the one-pace for second, clear of last year’s winner Old Guard.

It was a delight to see the Nigel Twiston-Davies trained 8 year old The New One back in such exuberant form, having missed his intended chasing debut last week and instead making his seasonal return over hurdles.

However, we may not have learned too much in regards to the bigger Champion Hurdle picture and the present hierarchy of contenders in that sphere has not really moved forwards and the balance of power seemingly still lies firmly with Ireland.

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CLIFFS OF DOVER SHOWS RIVALS A CLEAN PAIR OF HEELS AT DONCASTER Cliffs Of Dover never saw another rivals as he completed his sixth success of the season with a scintillating run in the Grade 2 bet365 Summit Juvenile Hurdle at Doncaster this afternoon.

Seven horses faced the starter for this contest and it was the prolific Cliffs Of Dover who quickly assumed command, taking a real hold under Harry Cobden and soon moving several lengths clear of his rivals.

At the second flight Cliffs Of Dover was about four lengths clear of Tasty Ginger and Shrubland.

Cliffs Of Dover galloped over Rose Hill and moved further clear, leading his rivals by about 10 lengths from Shrubland and Tasty Ginger and he turned for home in complete control.

Into the home straight, Cliffs Of Dover was fully 12 lengths clear of Lord Justice and Zig Zag and whilst the lead was reduced two out, Cliffs Of Dover was still 5 lengths clear at the last.

He cleared it well and scampered on with Lord Justice closing but unable to bridge the gap, recording his sixth win over hurdles and giving trainer Paul Nicholls a Grade 2 double on Town Moor today.

Lord Justice ran on well, while Zig Zag came home third, with both horses trained by Joseph O’Brien.

CAPITAINE MAKES ALL FOR IMPRESSIVE KENNEL GATE WIN Capitaine put up a game performance and kept finding more as he made virtually every yard of the running to land the Grade 2 Sky Bet Supreme Trial Novices’ Hurdle (Registered as The Kennel Gate Hurdle) at Ascot.

A field of six went to post for a race which often has a bearing on determining the leading novice hurdlers of the season.

Capitaine went into the early lead as the field reluctantly left the starting point.

Settling down, the grey Capitaine went five lengths clear of Lough Derg Spirit at the second flight, with Keep In Line in third.

Capitaine and Sam Twiston-Davies continued to race a few lengths clear of their rivals, with Lough Derg Spirit and Keep In Line matching strides, following by Captain Forez, Blue Surf and Thomas Campbell, who were all bunched.

The lead was reduced at the third last, although the leader was still travelling well as the sextet began the turn for home.

Capitaine found a little more racing to the second last with Keep In Line the pursuer and then Captain Forez.

Racing to the last though, Capitaine again found more and this scopey gelding lengthened well on the flat for a most impressive victory with Captain Forez second and then Keep In Line.

Capitaine, still just a four year old, was shouldering top weight here against some smart older rivals. His performance suggested that he might in time get further. He was delivering a double for trainer and jockey on the card.

POLITOLOGUE AWESOME IN THE MITIE NOEL NOVICES’ CHASE Politologue put up an awesome round of jumping and dominated his three rivals with an exciting performance in the Grade 2 Mitie Noel Novices’ Chase at Ascot.

Just the four horses lined-up for a two miles, five furlongs race with a rich pedigree.

As the tapes went up Riyal Vacation set off with a narrow lead from Politologue and it was the latter, a striking grey, who out-jumped his rival at the first and moved into a clear lead.

The front two took the next fence in unison, ahead of Rock The Kasbah and Captain Chaos.

Racing down the home straight for the first time, the front three pulled clear of Captain Chaos who made a bad mistake at the fence in front of the stands.

Politologue continued to bowl along in front and pulled further clear over the first fence in the back straight, where Rock The Kasbah moved into second, ahead of Royal Vacation.

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NEWS UK RACING At the tenth, Politologue again put in a spectacular jump, although Rock The Kasbah closed as a gap opened up to the remaining two. However, the pursuer did his chances no favours with a bad error at the next fence.

Politologue took the third last ahead of Rock The Kasbah, who tried hard to stick to the leader, but was labouring in the wake of what appeared to be a top class horse.

Into the home straight, Politologue pulled well clear. He took the last fence well an strode home for a most impressive win. Rock the Kasbah stuck to his guns gamely for second, closing late on as the winner idled, and was clear of Captain Chaos and Royal Vacation.

This was a quite brilliant performance by the 5 year old grey, giving Paul Nicholls a treble on the card.

BUVEUR D’AIR IMPRESSES ON CHASING BOW AT HAYDOCK PARK Buveur D’Air brushed aside a lengthy absence and asserted his class to win the Read Paddy Brennan at 32Red.com Novices’ Chase at Haydock Park.

The four year old Chic Name was straight into the lead from Cloudy Dream and the chasing debutant Buveur D’Air, with What’s Up Rory last of the four.

Chic Name continued to lead as the field passed the stands, although visibility was poor with fog shrouding the track.

Racing back into the home straight, Chic Name remained ahead of Cloudy Dream and Buveur D’Air, with What’s Up Rory tailed off.

Conor O’Farrell niggled Chic Name, but Cloudy Dream closed well, while Buveur D’Air, maybe three lengths down, brushed through the top of the second last.

Cloudy Dream went on approaching the final fence, however, Buveur D’Air, a Grade 1 novice hurdle winner last season, responded well to Aidan Coleman’s pressure and with the final fence safely negotiated, and in receipt of 8 pounds, lengthened to beat Cloudy Dream by a classy three lengths, with Chic Name running well in third.

The Nicky Henderson trained 5 year old Buveur D’Air was beaten just once over hurdles last season,

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when third to Altior and Min in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. He joins those two among the novice chasing ranks this winter and on the strength of this performance, his first run since April, he looks a leading player.

TOP NOTCH COMPLETES CHASE HAT-TRICK AT ASCOT Top Notch put up a polished performance to win the GL Events Owen Brown Graduation Chase at a very foggy Ascot.

A field of five went to post for this two miles and five furlong contest.

Sizing Codelco and Solstice Star took the runners along with a healthy early lead.

Racing down the back straight and with a circuit raced, the field were bunched, with Sizing Codelco still leading Solstice Star, while Caid Du Berlais and Top Notch were next, ahead of Hammersly Lake.

Sizing Codelco pressed on turning for home, with Top Notch and Caid Du Berlais giving chase, followed by Hammersly Lake.

Top Notch came to challenge two out and forged into the lead racing to the final fence, jumping it well.

With the jumping completed, Top Notch showed his superior speed and he held on comfortably from a resurgent Sizing Codelco and the staying on Hammersly Lake in third.

The Nicky Henderson trained 5 year old was completing a hat-trick of wins over fences and this performance suggested that the JLT Novices’ Chase could well be within his remit come the spring.

UNOWHATIMEANHARRY LANDS THE LONG WALK HURDLE Unowhatimeanharry emerged from the fog and gloom as a shining beacon of progression, as he landed the Grade 1 JLT Long Walk Hurdle at fog-bound Ascot.

A field of eleven lined-up for this three miles and half a furlong contest in the prevailing fog.

As the tapes went up, three-time winner Reve De Sivola jumped off in front from Ptit Zig and Lil Rockerfeller.

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REGAL ENCORE STRIKES SILVER AT ASCOT

© Steven Cargill

Racing out of the back straight, Ballyoptic moved on from Reve De Sivola, with this pair clear of West Approach and Ptit Zig, with the field well strung out.

The front two took the fifth flight, the first in the home straight, clear of West Approach, with a gap back to the rest of the field and that was the order, heading out onto the final circuit.

Ballyoptic continued to lead Reve De Sivloa and West Approach, but the gap started to close with Ptit Zig and Un Temps Pour Tout next, followed by the main pack.

Racing towards Swinley Bottom, West Approach went on from Ballyoptic, and as they turned for home, Ptit Zig, Lil Rockerfeller and Unowhatimeanharry started to close.

Two out and Ballyoptic landed narrowly in front of West Approach and Unowhatimeanharry, but the latter came to challenge the last.

Drama ensued as Unowhatimeanharry landed narrowly in front, but Ballyoptic slithered to the floor.

The left Unowhatimeanharry clear under Barry Geraghty and he stormed home well ahead of Lil Rockerfeller, these a long way clear of Un Temps Pour Tout in third, with Ptit Zig fourth.

The Harry Fry trained 8 year old Unowhatimeanharry was winning his seventh consecutive race, consolidating his position as the leading staying hurdler of the season.

Regal Encore emerged from the gloom both metaphorically and in reality, to win the Listed Lavazza Jolie Silver Cup Handicap Chase at Ascot.

Fourteen went to post for this three mile contest, formerly known as the SGB Chase.

Annacotty went straight to the front, but Go Conquer fell heavily at the first.

Settling down, Tenor Nivernais went on from Minella Daddy and Annacotty, with Fletchers Flyer racing wide.

Racing down the straight, with a circuit to race, Minella Daddy and Tenor Nivernais continued to lead and as they set out into the country, they by-passed the damaged first fence down the back.

Eduard pulled up abruptly, soon afterwards.

Up front, Tenor Nivernais led from Minella Daddy and Fletchers Flyer, with Le Mercurey travelling well and then Annacotty and Another Hero, with Triolo D’Alene tracking these.

Tenor Nivernais was clear at the fourth last but was joined by Minella Daddy three out and this pair turned for home clear of Irish Saint.

Minella Daddy inched into the lead two from home and headed to the final fence ahead of Tenor Nivernaid. However, from out of the fog Regal Encore finished with a flourish under the red-hot Barry Geraghty and stormed into the lead in the final half a furlong to beat Minella Daddy and Tenor Nivernais in a dramatic finish, with Another Hero fourth.

The Anthony Honeyball trained 8 year old had pulled up on five of his previous six starts.

BRAIN POWER CONTINUES HIS PROGRESS WITH AN EASY ASCOT WIN Brain Power was hugely impressive as he dismantled a quality field of handicappers for an easy win in the valuable Grade 3 Wessex Youth Trust Handicap Hurdle at Ascot.

A field of 19 lined-up for this always competitive pre-Christmas prize.

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NEWS UK RACING At the off Sternrubin, Unison and Rayvin Black led from Jolly’s Cracked It and Wolf Of Windlesham.

Heading out into the country, in worsening visibility, Sternrubin’s yellow jacket was clear in front of Rayvin Black and Unison and the latter went on over the fourth from Sternrubin and Rayvin Black, with Wolf Of Windlesham, Fergall and Willow’s Saviour.

Racing to the fourth last, Sternrubin and Fergall went into the lead and headed back into the worst of the fog.

Kevin Jones made a bold move on Fergall, who stormed clear on the home turn from Brain Power, with a gap back to the rest.

Fergall took two from home still three lengths clear of Brain Power, but his earlier dash for home took its toll as Brain Power closed still full of running and went on under David Mullins.

Brain Power went well clear after the last for a decisive victory, with stable mate Consul De Thaix finishing like a rocket from miles back, to take second, ahead of Fergall in third, with the Tony Martin pair Golden Spear and Quick Jack next.

This was a real triumph for Nicky Henderson, who earlier in the day had seen his exciting novice chasers Buveur D’Air and Top Notch both win.

The first two horses here had filled these same positions in a Listed handicap hurdle at Sandown Park a fortnight ago.

DEFINITLY RED POWERS TO EMOTIONAL WIN FOR HENRY BROOKE Henry Brooke’s return from serious injury gained terrific momentum as Definitly Red stormed to victory in the Grade 3 188bet Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase at Wetherby.

Yala Enki and Seventh Sky disputed the early lead with the grey Actinpieces, with Henri Parry Morgan in fourth and then Wakanda, as the field passed the stands for the first time.

Our Kaempfer was an early casualty down the back straight, blundering badly and giving Richie McLernon no chance.

With a circuit completed, Actinpieces the grey

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held a narrow lead from a bunched pack, with Yala Enki prominented and then Wakanda, Henri Parry Mogan, Seventh Sky and Definitly Red and that was the order as the field set off with a circuit to race.

Yala Enki the recent Tommy Whittle Chase winner, moved into the lead from Wakanda and Actinpieces, as the field took the twelfth, where Seventh Sky fell.

Up front, Yala Enki took six out ahead of Wakanda, Definitly Red and Henri Parry Morgan, but Henri Parry Morgan unseated five from home.

Wakanda led out of the back straight from Definitly Red, with Yala Enki under strong pressure and dropping back, as Blaklion stayed on, these four clear of the remainder.

Defniitly Red edged into the lead four out, with Wakanda under pressure, while Blaklion was under pressure back in third.

Definitly Red surged clear and took two out with an increasing advantage over Wakanda.

The Brian Ellison runner took the last well and Henry Brooke drove him out for an impressive win from Wakanda and Blaklion, who were clear of Yala Enki.

The 7 year old had finished 8 lengths second to Blaklion in the Towton Novices’ Chase at this track back at the start of the year.

ROYAL VACATION WINS A DRAMATIC KAUTO STAR NOVICES’ CHASE Royal Vacation made the most of his jumping as Might Bite, set for a runaway win, crashed out at the last in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase (In Memory of Nigel Clark) at Kempton Park.

At the off it was Minella Daddy on the inside from Might Bite and Amore Alato, these three almost racing in a line and setting a strong early tempo.

With two fences negotiated, the front three were several lengths clear of Royal Vacation and Present Man, but the pace started to ease off with Amore Alato leading Might Bite.

Present Man was the first to make a serious mistake, but Jack Sherwood maintained the partnership, however, Caracci Apache was pulled up

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© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

before the field turned into the home straight for the first time.

Amore Alato and Might Bite continued to vie for the lead, with a gap back to Present Man and Royal Vacation, with Minella Daddy next and then Virgilio and Frodon, as the field headed out with a circuit to race.

Might Bite went back on racing down the back straight from Amore Alato, with Royal Vacation third and Frodon starting to move into contention, followed by Present Man. Amore Alato started to back pedal as Might Bite poured it on and took the fourth last with a commanding lead over Royal Vacation, who was under pressure, while Frodon was also feeling the pace.

Might Bite turned into the home straight and took the third last clear of Royal Vacation and Frodon. He was close in to the second last, but powered on to the last, with the race his for the taking and a lead of perhaps 15 lengths.

However, he dived horribly at the last fence,

crashing to the ground and leaving Royal Vacation a long way clear of Frodon.

Royal Vacation and Paddy Brennan safely negotiated the final fence, but Frodaon did not, taking a tired tumble.

So the Colin Tizzard trained Royal Vacation, racing in the colours of Cue Card, due to run in the King George an hour or so later, sauntered to a fortunate and uncontested win.

The stragglers picked up valuable place money, with Virgilio taking second ahead of Amore Alato and Present Man.

YANWORTH ANSWERS ALL QUESTIONS TO WIN THE CHRISTMAS HURDLE Yanworth inherited the crown vacated by Faugheen, as he worked hard from a long way out to land the Grade 1 32Red.com Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park.

A disappointing field of five went to post for this valuable two mile contest and at the off it was The New One who went on from old rival My Tent Or Yours, with the rank outsider Gray Wolf River third and then Yanworth and Ch’ Tibello.

Heading out and down the back straight, The New One and Sam Twiston-Davies continued to dictate from My Tent Or Yours and then Yanworth in third, ahead of Ch’ Tibello, as the mare Gray Wolf River started to drop away.

© Steven Cargill

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NEWS UK RACING The front two started to duel for the lead and jumped the fifth together, a couple of lengths ahead of Yanworth and Ch-Tibello.

The front pair landed in unison three out, with Yanworth closing but under pressure to do so, as the field turned for home.

Still nothing separated the front pair, with Yanworth under hard work to join issue.

The New One took two out in front of My Tent Or Yours, with Yanworth still staying on and hitting the front at the last.

Yanworth landed in front and surged clear under Barry Geraghty, beating The New One by three lengths, with Ch’ Tibello staying on past the disappointing My Tent Or Yours for third place.

The Alan King trained Yanworth, a 6 year old, was a smart novice hurdler last term, winning all of his starts before finding Yorkhill too good at Cheltenham. This was his first Grade 1 success.

ANDREW THORNTON FINALLY REACHES 1,000 WINNERS AT WINCANTON Andrew Thornton achieved his long-held dream of riding 1,000 domestic winners when completing a double at Wincanton on Boxing Day. The 44-year-old joined an elite list that includes Sir Anthony McCoy, Richard Johnson, Richard Dunwoody and Peter Scudamore when finally achieving the landmark after a career that began 26 years ago.

Both his winners, Somchine and Kentford Myth, were for a great supporter in trainer Seamus Mullins.

Thornton had fortune on his side as Kentford Myth was gifted the lead three out when the clear leader Antarctic De Thaix fell. The six-year-old went on to beat Mollyanna, who was the only other finisher after four had set out in the Bathwick Tyres EBF/TBA Mares’ Novices’ Chase.

Thornton had made it 999 on Somchine in the Armishaws Removals Mid Season Handicap Chase.

It was pretty straightforward after the eight-yearold jumped into the lead at the second-last fence.

Clear over the final obstacle, Somchine won cosily by

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five lengths from the 6-4 favourite Dusty Lark.

Thornton had been stuck on 996 after breaking his collarbone in October, but that did not deter him from his quest and the last three winners he needed came in quick succession.

Win number 998 came on Barton Gift at Bangor on Thursday and he reached the magic figure when racing resumed after the short Christmas break.

Thornton had his first ride in November 1990, but had to wait 12 months for his first winner at Sedgefield.

His 1,000th winner was coming exactly 19 years to the day he won the King George VI Chase at Kempton on See More Business for Paul Nicholls in 1997.

In 1998 Thornton won the Cheltenham Gold Cup for Robert Alner on Cool Dawn, while he also enjoyed a fruitful association with the brilliant but ill-fated French Holly.

Trained by Ferdy Murphy, French Holly won the Tolworth Hurdle at Sandown, the Royal & SunAlliance Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham and the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton in 1998, before finishing third to Istabraq in the following year’s Champion Hurdle.

He won his only novice chase in October 1999 but died in an accident on the gallops just a few days later.

Mullins said: “It’s a marvellous achievement for him and so nice that he did it on one of my horses and for my longest-standing owner, Ian Bare, as well. The three of us go back about 20 years or so.

“It was an up and down day. I lost a nice horse in the previous race, Western Cape, then Andrew rides his 1,000th winner and when he jumped off he twisted his knee and was stood down for the rest of the day.”

ALTIOR CRUISES TO A FACILE KEMPTON VICTORY Altior predictably sauntered to a facile victory in the Grade 2 32Red.com Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase at Kempton Park, with a pleasing round of jumping, as he cruised inexorably towards another clash with Min. Another disappointingly small field of four

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UK RACING NEWS assembled for this valuable contest, with all eyes focussed on recent Grade 1 winner Altior.

From the off it was Marracudja who went into the lead and took the first fence about three lengths clear of the mare Stephanie Frances, with Altior third and Mrsrobin last of the four and soon tailing off.

Marracudja and Sean Bowen passed the post with a five length lead over Altior and Stephanie Frances.

Racing down the back straight, Marracudja’s lead was reduced, but he really stood off the first open ditch in grand style., with Stephanie Frances and Altior in close proximity.

Marracudja took the seventh ahead of Altior who travelled well and loomed large after the next fence, with Stephanie Frances now four lengths back.

Turning for home, Altior travelled sweetly for Noel Feily, inching into the lead three from home and jumping well, with Marracudja under pressure to keep in touch.

Altior bound over the second last and eased clear heading to the last fence, taking it well and cruising to an easy victory over Marracudja, who in turn was a long way clear of Stephanie Frances.

The Nicky Henderson trained 6 year old has now won his last eight starts and a clash with Irish star Min in the Arkle Trophy, is something for racing fans to look forward to in March.

DEFI DU SEUIL STORMS TO GRADE 1 GLORY AT CHEPSTOW Defi Du Seuil’s jumping was far from fluent, but he simply oozed class as he powered to an easy victory in the Grade 1 Coral.co.uk Future Champions Finale Juvenile Hurdle at Chepstow.

Evening Hush the filly went straight into the lead and held a two-length lead over Dolos and the hard-pulling Dinos Velvet, with Defi Du Seuil settled in fourth.

The order remained the same as the field raced along the back, with Evening Hush still ahead of Dolos.

Racing downhill, Evening Hush increased her advantage, although Dolos and Defi Du Seuil were still travelling sweetly and there was a long way to race.

The mare took the field into the home straight but Defi Du Seuil travelled powerfully and a mistake

by Evening Hush four out gifted him the lead.

The Philip Hobbs youngster soon put distance between himself and his rivals, despite a couple of suspect jumps and he cleared the last perhaps 15 lengths clear, striding out well to beat Evening Hush and complete his five-timer, including four since he came to England.

Dolos came home in third, but was in another parish to the winner.

SPECIAL TIARA WINS HIS SECOND DESERT ORCHID CHASE Special Tiara made proven class tell, as he beat two horses after the early exit of Sire De Grugy in the Grade 2 32Red Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton Park.

Yet another disappointingly small sized field of four lined up for a big British race here.

Special Tiara, as so often is the case, went straight into the lead from Sire De Grugy and Sir Valentino, with Savello a couple of lengths adrift.

At the second fence, Sire De Grugy blundered and unseated Jamie Moore, reducing the field to three.

Special Tiara meanwhile, set the tempo from Sir Valentino, with Savello a few lengths behind, as the leader took the fourth fence, the first down the back.

The lead increased to about five lengths as Special Tiara approached the sixth fence, with Sir Valentino second and then Savello who was tailed off.

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NEWS UK RACING At the fourth last, Special Tiara and Noel Fehily continued to lead Sir Valentino, who had closed, although the leader was still racing within himself.

Into the straight, Special Tiara landed in front over three out and the sprint was on in earnest.

Special Tiara jumped well for Fehily when he needed to at the second last, as Sir Valentino blundered and the Irish raider headed to the last with a two length advantage. He jumped the last cleanly and whilst Sir Valentino responded to pressure, Special Tiara held him comfortably at bay, with the pair miles clear of Savello.

Clearly this race was robbed of plenty of its interest with the early departure of Sire De Grugy, but Henry De Bromhead’s Grade 1 winning 9 year old, was always in command here as he landed his second Desert Orchid Chase.

NATIVE RIVER BRILLIANT IN WEIGHT CARRYING WELSH NATIONAL WIN Native River shrugged aside his big weight to brilliantly put to the sword his rivals in a memorable renewal of the Coral Welsh Grand National at Chepstow.

A field of twenty went to post for a well above average renewal of this magnificent race, with former winner Emperor’s Choice the bottom weight.

At the off, Mountainous and Emperor’s Choice were up with the pace with Beg To Differ and Native River, with Bishops Road to the inside, as there was a mad dash to the first bend, on the long run to the first fence.

Emperor’s Choice gained the day from Beg To Differ and Native River, with Theatre Guide and Bishops Road racing next.

Native River came to join the leaders at the second, where Milansbar made a bad error.

At the third Native River made a mistake and Emperor’s Choice went back on from the top weight, with Beg To Differ and Theatre Guide close-up, while Harry Topper, back from a long absence, raced in last.

Turning into the long home straight on the first circuit, Emperor’s Choice led with Native River, with Beg To Differ to their inside and then Theatre Guide, Katkeau and Houblon Des Obeaux, although the field were relatively closely bunched.

Taking the final fence on that circuit, Native River pressed on into a two length lead over Emperor’s Choice, but at this stage, all remaining 19 were very much in touch, with only Onenightinvienna out of the race.

Native River continued to bowl along in front with Houblon Des Obeaux and Theatre Guide close-up along with Beg To Differ and then Carole’s Destrier and Firebird Flyer and then Katkeau and Bishops Road. Emperor’s Choice was pulled up and Goulanes soon followed suit before the 17th fence.

© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

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UK RACING NEWS Racing back towards the home turn, Native River and Houblon Des Obeaux were matching strides, a couple of lengths ahead of Beg To Differ and Theatre Guide, with Firebird Flyer next and then Carole’s Destrier.

Five from home and Native River touched down just in front of Houblon Des Obeaux.

At the final ditch, the leader put in a spectacular leap and extended his advantage to 10 lengths. He took the second last a long way clear, but the Irish challenger Raz De Maree was staying on.

Native River cleared the last well and made his way home, with Raz De Maree working hard and closing, but not in time, as the Hennessy Gold Cup winner defied 11 stone and 12 pounds in brilliant style, to give Richard Johnson another memorable victory.

The veteran Raz De Maree ran a great race in second and was clear of Houblon Des Obeaux who came home a terrific third on his first start of the season, with Beg To Differ fourth.

Native River, just a 6 year old, has won a Grade 1 race, Hennessy Gold Cup and Welsh National in his last three starts over fences. Remarkably, he is yet another horse who hails from the Colin Tizzard stable which can seemingly do nothing wrong at present. He is a worthy Gold Cup contender along with Cue Card and Thistlecrack.

DONALD MCCAIN HITS 1,000 WINNERS WITH LOUGH DERG JEWEL SUCCESS AT KELSO Lough Derg Jewel provided Donald McCain with his 1,000th training success at Kelso.

The 5 year old landed the Samantha & Rebecca’s 18th Birthday Bash “National Hunt” Maiden Hurdle at the Borders track to chalk up the important landmark for McCain, who counts Ballabriggs’ 2011 Grand National success as one of the highlights of his career so far.

McCain tweeted: “So that’s it then, 1,000 winners thanks to Lough Derg Jewel! A great effort from all the team and thanks to all who helped along the way.”

MESSIRE DES OBEAUX EXCELS IN THE CHALLOW NOVICES’ HURDLE Messire Des Obeaux continued his impressive season with a comfortable success in the Grade 1 Betfred Challow Novices’ Hurdle at Newbury.

A field of eight went to post for the final Grade 1 contest of 2016.

At the off it was Ami Desbois who led from Major Mac, with this pair about three lengths clear of the rest, but 2 ½ miles still in front of them.

As the field raced down the home straight, Major Mac and Gavin Sheehan went on into a lead of about three lengths from Ami Desbois, with an 8 length gap back to the remaining six, as the field turned away from the stands with a circuit to race.

Racing down the back straight, Major Mac led Ami Desbois, while Messire Des Obeaux had closed the gap and sat about 4 lengths behind the front pair, with Elegant Escape in fourth and then Peak To Peak and Baltazar D’Allier next.

Heading towards the cross-hurdle, Major Mac still led from Ami Desbois, but the pack were gradually closing, although Elegant Escape was under a ride.

Major Mac turned for home first and was 5 lengths clear of Ami Desbois, while Robin Roe fell three from home.

All the time though Messire Des Obeaux was cruising and making effortless progress and heading to the last, he joined and quickly passed Major Mac, jumping the final obstacle well.

In behind, Baltazar D’Allier was closing but was a little untidy at the last and Messire Des Obeaux had the greater momentum coming away from the hurdle.

Baltazar D’Allier closed on the leader on the run-in but Daryl Jacobs’ four year old partner Messire Des Obeaux was never seriously threatened and reached the line with a comfortable couple of lengths in hand over the Irish raider, with a gap back to Ami Desbois in third and Elegant Escape, who battled on well, having been the first under pressure, a close fourth.

The Alan King trained Messire Des Obeaux had impressed in his previous run, when landing a Grade 2 event at Sandown Park from the Champion Bumper winner Ballyandy.

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NEWS UK RACING King said: “He travelled very well through it and probably last time was the first time that he has really had to battle and I am sure they learn from that. I was delighted with him today; it seemed an awful long way from the last but anyway he held on!

“He will definitely get three but I don’t think we need be in a rush to go there yet. He travels very well through a race and I have said all the way through that the one thing I am really excited about is him seeing a fence next season.”

WHISPER OVERCOMES JUMPING ERRORS TO WIN THE DIPPER Whisper was not always fluent, but his stamina and class got him home narrowly from Clan Des Obeaux in the Grade 2 BetBright Dipper Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham.

Sadly O O Seven was a non-runner leaving only four horses to take part in this two miles, five furlong contest.

Clan Des Obeaux jumped off in the lead from the mare Briery Belle, with Whisper third and then Never Equalled.

At the second, Whisper made an error, but continued to race third.

The order remained the same at the 8th fence, but Whisper crept closer on the outside and soon moved past Briery Belle.

At the 1th, Clan Des Obeaux held a narrow lead from Whisper, with Briery Belle a couple of lengths back in third and several lengths back to Never Equalled.

Clan Des Obeaux took the fourth last well and headed downhill, with Whisper ploughing a wider path, the race developing into a two-horse race.

Clan Des Obeaux turned for home in front but Whisper was not shaken off and the leader was awkward on landing at the second last, giving the initiative to Whisper.

At the last Whisper landed in front and Davy Russell drove him up the hill. Clan Des Obeaux rallied gamely to the inside in the final 50 yards, but Whisper just clung on for the victory. There was a yawning gap back to Briery Belle in third.

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The 9 year old Whisper, a dual Grade 1 winner over hurdles, was following-up on his recent Cheltenham success in early December. He was giving Nicky Henderson a second winner in the Dipper Novices’ Chase, following the previous victory of Oscar Whiskey, who ran in the same Dai Walters silks.

SHANTOU FLYER WINS ON FIRST START FOR REBECCA CURTIS Shantou Flyer stayed on through the increasing mud to beat Cheltenham stalwart Village Vic in the Grade 3 BetBright Best For Festival Betting Handicap Chase at Cheltenham.

With two non-runners, 11 set off on this two miles, five furlong trip, with perennial front-runner Village Vic soon leading from Tenor Nivernais and As De Mee. As the field settled down with three fences negotiated, Village Vic lead from Tenor Nivernais and As De Mee, with Thomas Brown and Top Gamble well up with the pace, along with Henri Parry Morgan.

Last year’s winner Village Vic took the field down the home straight with a narrow advantage as the runners all cleared the seventh fence and headed out with a circuit to run, with Shutthefrontdoor under pressure and dropping to the back of the field.

Village Vic took the water with a length lead over Tenor Nivernais and then Henri Parry Morgan and to the outside Thomas Crapper, who had made plenty of ground. Thomas Brown raced close to the pace. Meanwhile, at the 13th, As De Mee made a bad mistake and was pulled up.

At the fourth last, Village Vic led from Thomas Crapper, while Henri Parry Morgan took a crashing fall.

The front two were clear over three out, with Shantou Flyer staying on powerfully and then Tenor Nivernais.

Village Vic turned for home in front but Shantou Flyetr on the inside came to challenge and landed narrowly in front two out and took the last about two lengths ahead of the long-time leader.

Shantou Flyer found plenty on the run-in for

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UK RACING NEWS Aidan Coleman, beating the rallying Village Vic by about three length, with the staying on Top Gamble running really well in third, and then Tenor Nivernais in fourth.

This has been a terrific weekend for Rebecca Curtis, who won the Mandarin Chase on Saturday with Potters Cross and saw the 7 year old Shantou Flyer win on his debut for the yard, after a lengthy absence.

AGRAPART FIGHTS BACK IN THE RELKEEL HURDLE Agrapart completed a memorable double for Nick Williams and Lizzie Kelly, as he fought back gamely to reclaim the lead on the winning line and land the Grade 2 Dornan Engineering Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Nine lined-up for this interesting 2 ½ mile contest which remembers the three-time Bula Hurdle winner Relkeel.

Disappointingly there were another three nonrunners on this card and in this race, leaving just six to go to post for a valuable prize.

The former Stayers’ Hurdle winner Cole Harden, was straight into the lead and after two flights, had a three length advantage over Agrapart, with Camping Ground and Lil Rockerfeller next, pursued by Adrien Du Pont and L’Ami Serge.

The order remained similar as the field raced down the back straight, although Lil Rockerfeller came under strong pressure.

Up front, Cole Harden continued to lead and at the fourth last, Agrapart was still second, with Camping Ground and Adrien Du Pont and then Lil Rockerfeller, still under pressure but responding well and then L’Ami Serge, still close enough.

Racing downhill, Cole Harden had the edge still but all six horses were within four lengths.

Lil Rockerfeller made progress still under pressure an at the second last, Cole Harden was joined by Agrapart, while Adrien Du Pont pecked on landing and unseated his rider.

Turning for home, Agrapart went on with Lil Rockerfeller pluggin on under pressure with Cole Harden, while L’Ami Serge travelled powerfully in behind.

At the last, L’Ami Serge was produced by Daryl Jacob and went on, but Agrapart refused to yield without a fight. Meeting he rising ground, Agrapart rallied well under a strong ride from Lizzie Kelly and started to claw back the narrow deficit.

On the line it was just on the nod and Agrapart got back up to deliver a big race double for Nick Williams and Kelly.

L’Ami Serge performed admirably on his return to hurdling and the front two pulled well clear of Cole Harden, with Lil Rockerfeller a well beaten fourth.

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NEWS UK RACING

SARA BRADSTOCK REVEALS FURTHER FRUSTRATION WITH CONEYGREE’S GOLD CUP PREPARATION Sara Bradstock has revealed that 2015 Gold Cup winner Coneygree will not race ahead of his bid to regain his crown, as niggling injury issues continue to beset the 9 year old.

“He’s good and we’re hoping he’ll be ready to run in the Gold Cup, but he won’t run before then,” Bradstock told Press Association Sport.

“He’s fine, but it came out in the wash that he’s jarred himself a little bit. It’s not a serious injury, but as we all know, while he is a miracle horse, he is fragile.

“You never really know with him, but I’m hopeful he’ll make the Gold Cup. “We’ll walk him now for a month until he’s super-well and then we’ll see where we are.

“He’ll be fine by the time the Gold Cup comes around, the question is whether we’ll have him ready.”

Coneygree was racing for the first time in over a year, when finishing 15 lengths second to Cue Card in the Betfair Chase in November.

Bradstock was an interested observer as Cue Card was soundly beaten by stable mate Thistlecrack in the King George on Boxing Day. She said: “I don’t think the King George told us much, really.

“Thistlecrack did what he did beautifully, but what did he do?

“Cue Card is a wonderful horse, but he has a few miles on the clock and I think he showed when he ran at Wetherby (third in Charlie Hall Chase) that he’s not as effective on good ground as he is on soft.

“He just beat Silviniaco Conti for second and he was miles behind him at Haydock.

“We wouldn’t be frightened to take Thistlecrack on, anyway.

“If we can get Coneygree there at the top of his game, he’ll be up for the challenge and we’ll try and show him who’s boss!”

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TALENTED PERFORMER EDUCATE PUT DOWN Educate, winner of this year’s John Smith’s Cup and a former winner of the Cambridgeshire Handicap at Newmarket, has had to be put down At The Races reported.

The Ismael Mohammed trained 7 year old was contesting the Listed Betway Quebec Stakes at Lingfield Park, but seemed to falter in the final furlong and was reported as having broken down by At The Races.

Sadly the broadcaster later confirmed that he had been put down.

The son of Echo Of Light won seven of his 42 career starts and over £371,000 in win and place prize money.

The race was won in decisive fashion by Battalion, who surged clear under William Carson, who made it two from two since joining Jamie Osborne from William Haggas.

FORMER GUINEAS RUNNER-UP DELEGATOR PASSES AWAY Delegator, runner-up to Sea The Stars in the 2,000 Guineas in 2009, has died of an apparent heart attack at Overbury Stud.

The 10-year-old started his racing career with trainer Brian Meehan before being bought by Godolphin and moving to Saeed bin Suroor’s stable.

His biggest successes came in the Craven Stakes and Duke of York Stakes.

Retired to stud in 2012, Delegator had made a promising start to his stallion career this year.

His first runner, Nazik, was a winner in early May, since when a total of eight of his first crop have been successful.

They are led by Delectation, winner of the Group Three Firth of Clyde Stakes at Ayr, and Accidental Agent, successful in the £150,000 Tattersalls October Auction Stakes at Newmarket.

Overbury manager Simon Sweeting said on the stud’s website, www.ovstud.co.uk: “Delegator made

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UK RACING NEWS a wonderful start and we all had very high hopes for his future.

“If his stock progress as well from two to three as he did, he’ll be a sizeable loss to British breeders.”

NEWBURY ANNOUNCES THE END OF HENNESSY SPONSORSHIP Newbury Racecourse today announced that the 60th Hennessy Gold Cup, won in such memorable style by Native River, will be the last running of the historic race under the backing of Hennessy.

The first three Hennessy Gold Cups took place at Cheltenham, from 1957 to 1959, with the initial contest won by the legendary Mandarin, owned by Peggy Hennessy, a member of the Hennessy family.

From 1960 onwards, the race has taken place every year at Newbury and has established itself as one of the most valuable, significant and popular events in the steeplechasing programme.

Confirming the news, Dominic Burke, Chairman of Newbury Racecourse said: “For anyone with even a passing interest in Jump racing, The Hennessy Gold Cup has been a race that has captured the imagination. It has helped to identify future stars, confirmed existing champions and produced as much emotion and excitement as almost any other race in the calendar.

“We are enormously grateful to several generations of the Hennessy family and the company’s management team for their wonderful support of such a special event, but everything comes to an end at some point and it is fitting that the sponsorship is drawing to a close after such a thrilling race to mark the 60th Hennessy Gold Cup as the highlight of two wonderful days of top class Jump racing last month.”

WALTER SWINBURN DIES AT 55 Very sad news has been initially reported that former top class jockey Walter Swinburn has died at the age of 55.

Perhaps best known for winning the 1981 Derby by a record ten lengths on Shergar, at the age of just

19, Swinburn enjoyed a long and fruitful partnership with Sir Michael Stoute throughout the 1980s and much of the 1990s, before persistent weight problems were part of the reason for his decision to hang up his saddle in April 2000.

The son of successful Irish jockey Wally Swinburn, Walter was apprenticed to Frenchie Nicholson and Reg Hollinshead--both of whom had also minded Pat Eddery, Greville Starkey, Kevin Darley and Willie Ryan. Spotting his obvious talent, Sir Michael Stoute took the burgeoning talent under his wings ahead of the 1981 flat season – and had sufficient faith in the teenager to entrust him with the ride aboard Shergar. Swinburn did not let him down, although he missed the 1981 Irish Derby on the superstar racehorse, after incurring a hefty suspension at Royal Ascot.

© www.cranhamphoto.com

Walter made amends in the 1983 Irish Derby aboard Shareef Dancer and that same season saw him forge a memorable partnership with the brilliant All Along, who won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and later captured the 1983 Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year honours with three straight major event wins in North America: the Washington, D.C. International, the Canadian International Stakes (Rothmans International), and the Turf Classic.

Swinburn became one of the most sought-after jockeys around the world in the 1980s, winning a second Derby in sensational style above Shahrastani, who denied the fast-finishing Dancing Brave in 1986. Shadeed might have won the 2,000 Guineas under Lester Piggott, but Swinburn was in the saddle as he smashed the Ascot mile track record in the QEII Stakes in 1985.

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NEWS UK RACING Unite won the Oaks in 1987, highlighting the growing influence of Sheikh Mohammed and those same colours were carried to victory by Swinburn in the 1989 1,000 Guineas on Musical Bliss. A year earlier Swinburn had again donned the Aga Khan silks as Doyoun landed the 2,000 Guineas.

Shaadi, Zilzal, Melodist, Sonic Lady, Ezzoud and Marling were all other memorable horses and Swinburn came in for two plum rides in the early stages of Godolphin’s existence, riding Lamtarra to an unforgettable Derby victory in 1995 and a month later partnering Halling to his breakthrough Group 1 victory in the Coral Eclipse Stakes.

In 1992 Swinburn rode Hatoof to 1,000 Guineas victory and he was also associated with some of the fastest horses of a golden era for sprinting, riding Marling’s mother Marwell to July Cup success and also winning that race aboard the brilliantly fast three year old colts Green Desert and Ajdal (pictured).

In 1996 he rode Pilsudski to victory in the Breeders’ Cup Turf at Woodbine Racetrack and the Grosser Preis von Baden in Germany.

In February, 1996, he suffered a serious fall from Liffey River at Sha Tin racecourse in Hong Kong.

Many people were surprised at the mark the accident had left on Walter when he appeared on Channel 4 tv that summer.

Ongoing weight issues came to the fore and in March 1997, Walter faced the facts and admitted he was suffering from an eating disorder.

He buckled down to sorting the problem out by taking advice from his friend Steve Cauthen and visited a clinic in the US. After nearly a year out, he did return in 1998 and won 51 races in the UK and collected the Italian Oaks (Zomaradah) and the Coronation Stakes (Exclusive).

He also linked up with the Aidan O’Brien stable and won the Heinz 57 Stakes in August’98 on Lavery.

Soon after, what looked like a “week’s rest” turned out to be a 19 month sabatical to again, once and for all, conquer his weight problems.

It was great news to hear in the early months of 2000 that Walter was back on the Newmarket gallops in a comeback bid.

His come-back ride was at Wolverhampton on March 16th, 2000, finishing 8th on Diamond Flame.

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Soon after that he appeared on Channel 4 looking very gaunt but declaring himself “happy and in a place where I want to be”.

A win at Newcastle on the Jeremy Nosedatrained Blue Forest on March 28th and four more in the early days of April meant Walter had got off to a good start.

His comeback riding weight had been 8st 11 lbs and week by week he was trying to get it down to 8-9. Maybe he was trying too hard, too quickly.

He surprised everyone by declaring his official retirement at Kempton on 22nd April, 2000.

In March 2004, Walter announced that he would be taking over the reins from his father-in-law, top trainer Peter Harris.

Swinburn had success too with Stotsfold proving perhaps his best horse, winning four times at Group 3 level. Julienas provided another big day as he won the 2011 Royal Hunt Cup at Royal Ascot and overall, Swinburn trained over 250 winners in seven seasons as a trainer.

He quit the training ranks five years ago citing commercial reasons, but this news will have been a huge shock to all in racing.

Our thoughts are with Walter’s family and close friends as we remember one of the best big race jockeys of a very special era for jockey talent.

JOHN BUCKINGHAM PASSES AWAY John Buckingham, forever remembered for riding Foinavon to win one of the most sensational Grand Nationals of all time, has passed away at the age of 76.

He was approached to ride Foinavon in the 1967 Grand National, after three other jockeys had already turned the horse down – and galloped on into turf history.

A pile-up at the fence after Becher’s Brook wiped out the field – and Foinavon, tailed off, under Buckingham, managed to weave a way through the ensuing melee and clamber over the fence, going on to win the race at 100/1.

He explained later: “I’d have ridden Dick’s donkey to be in the Grand National...”

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UK RACING NEWS

After passing the elbow on the run-in, he got a final burst of energy from Foinavon, and later reflected: “Then there was no doubt, I knew I won it.

I was absolutely over the moon.”

Foinavon’s trainer, John Kempton, had such little faith in the horse that he chose to go to Worcester for the day instead.

“I remember it like it was yesterday,” said Buckingham, who became a jockeys’ valet when he retired in 1971 and ‘looked after’ 14 National winning jockeys in 30 years. “It was my first ride in the race. I was almost first out of the gate but they were going such a strong gallop that from then on I was struggling and had to keep pumping away at Foinavon.”

However, winning the National in such astonishing manner was no road to fame and fortune back then and in the 1970-71 season he only rode one winner and, aged 31, he retired from race riding.

Out of the blue, he was offered a job by the Jockey Association.

“They needed another valet” recalled John. “To be honest, it didn’t take me very long to make up my mind because I really don’t know what I would have done otherwise. And it’s a decision that I have never regretted.”

He built his own valeting business with his brother Tom. He sold it to fellow ex-jockey Chris Maude on Tom’s death in 2001.

JIM CROWLEY SUCCESSFUL ON FIRST RIDE FOR SHEIKH HAMDAN Jim Crowley made his first ride for his new boss Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum a winning one when steering Naseem home at Chelmsford.

The champion jockey, who replaced Paul Hanagan as Sheikh Hamdan’s retained rider last month, enjoyed a smooth success on the son of Sea The Stars in the Weatherbys Racing Diaries Maiden Stakes.

Crowley had Naseem smartly out of the stalls so that he was able to cross over from his wide draw much nearer to the rail and share the lead with Desert Grey.

Kicking on two furlongs out, he was soon clear and the John Gosden-trained youngster went on to score by five lengths from Auberge Du Lac on his second career start.

Crowley said: “A lovely start. When I saw the draw, 16 of 16, I thought we might be in a bit of trouble, but the horse broke very fast and I was able to get into a nice rhythm.

“He was dropping back to a mile from a mile and a quarter and he stayed that trip very well.”

Richard Hills, racing manager to Sheikh Hamdan, told At The Races: “It’s a nice winner on the first day.

It shows you’ve got a bit of luck on your side.

“I’m going over to Dubai with Jim. I’ll introduce him to all the trainers and to Sheikh Hamdan and show him the ropes.”

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NEWS UK RACING

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PILOT PAVES THE WAY FOR ENHANCED WELFARE PROVISION IN RACING Over the last twelve months, RACEFIT at The Racing Centre in Newmarket have been delivering an Occupational Health Pilot, funded by The Racing Foundation, for stud and stable staff in the area.

The one year pilot has supported the physical well being of stud and stable staff in Newmarket.

Throughout the pilot almost 400 racing staff have received interactive Tackroom Talks and occupational health clinics delivered by Pippa Stanford, a specialist occupational health nurse.

The Tackroom Talks were tailored to the individual needs of each yard or stud and consisted of short interactive workshops, with the option of a one-to-one ‘mini health check’. They increased awareness and knowledge of the importance of good physical health and wellbeing and importantly how to access support available.

Topics included hydration, nutrition, cardiovascular health, safer manual handling, prevention and management of musculoskeletal injuries and alcohol awareness. In total 18 Tackroom Talks were delivered to 396 racing staff.

A video of those who benefited from the Occupational Health Pilot

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can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=FuNaCRTI4NE&feature=youtu.be The key aims of the pilot were to improve availability and quality of specialist injury rehabilitation support available to stable and stud staff and jockeys, thereby helping to improve physical health and wellbeing and reduce the number of workdays lost to injury, though prevention, early intervention and the provision of suitable support.

The pilot enabled employers to access a formalised referral pathway for employees off sick or with health related issues. The referral compromised of a clinical assessment followed by written feedback provided to the employer, cases were then followed up in order to review progress and support their return to work.

The pilot has now received a 2 year extension from the Racing Foundation to ensure a further development of the programmes. The schemes continuation will be used to support a proposal to implement a national programme of occupational health provision to add value to the multitude of welfare services offered by Racing Welfare and Injured Jockeys Fund. These services include the recent release of Racing’s 24/7 support line and the increased number of welfare officers available to support racing’s people.

Matt Mancini, Welfare Development Manager at the BHA, said:

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UK RACING NEWS “Ultimately, the provision of comprehensive occupational health and welfare support to racing’s people has multiple benefits for all concerned, particularly employers and their staff.

“In the long term this can help reduce turnover and industry costs related to recruitment and training of new employees by encouraging staff retention.

“As an industry, British Horseracing should aim to provide a world class benefits package to a world class workforce. This service development has proven to be a positive step towards achieving that goal and I look forward to working collaboratively with other stakeholders to see how we can expand on this pilot to create a national provision in the future.

“The industry is very lucky to have The Racing Foundation to fund these initiatives to help the sport to grow and it is thanks to them that this project was even possible.”

Rob Hezel, Chief Executive of The Racing Foundation said: “We are delighted with the progress and results being achieved by the Occupational Health Pilot as well as the interest and support it has generated with trainers and their staff in Newmarket.

“The health and welfare of racing’s staff is of great importance to the industry and the Trustees of the Racing Foundation are happy to extend funding for the pilot by a further 2 years to ensure development and sustainability of the programmes.

It is important that stud and stable staff across the country have access to similar support and the Trustees are delighted to pledge further funding to ensure the findings from the Newmarket pilot are used to investigate and implement the delivery of services at other racing centres across the UK.” Annika Arnold, RACEFIT Manager, said: “Through the Occupational Health pilot we have impacted positively on the health and well being of over 400 racing staff in the Newmarket area through Tackroom Talks, mini health checks and Occupational Health clinics. The service has provided support to those suffering with ill-health or injury to return to work safely and effectively with the goal being to optimise their performance in their job role.”

The pilot, funded by the Racing Foundation

came under their ‘enhancing injury rehabilitation services for racing’s people’ initiative, linked to findings from the BHA’s review of welfare provision to people working in racing (2013). The findings highlighted notable existing provision through charitable and independent organisations such as Racing Welfare, the Injured Jockey’s Fund and the Professional Jockey’s Association, but identified a lack of specialist Occupational Health support to stable staff.

The Pilot was independently evaluated by Public Perspectives Ltd, with findings demonstrating that employees off work who were referred to the OH clinics returned to work more quickly and importantly, have remained in work. The evaluation also highlighted that overall the OH Pilot model was very well received by racing staff and employers that engaged with it and it has had a notable and positive impact on helping racing staff improve (and maintain) their physical health and return to work or improve their performance.

NATIONAL TRAINERS FEDERATION AND RACINGFX FORGE NEW PARTNERSHIP The trusted ally of Britain’s racehorse trainers, the NTF has forged a partnership with the industry leading online financial services provider RacingFX. The formal announcement has already been made to members in the December newsletter with more information available in the annual NTF renewal pack.

The newly formed partnership will focus on the benefits of the RacingFX online Cash Manager.

Here, users can hold balances in up to six currencies, pay and receive locally and internationally with free overseas payments as standard. Using the ‘Equine Network,’ users can also make payments to a standard list of industry services at the click of a button. Or add their own business to the list to receive customer payments quickly and securely. In addition, NTF members will benefit from the unique ‘Minimum Rate Guarantee’ for all currency conversions and foreign payments. There are also plans to release an NTF branded payment card in 2017 which will operate with ‘Minimum Rate Guarantee’ benefits.

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NEWS UK RACING Rupert Arnold, CEO of the NTF, said: “I am delighted to be part of this partnership. We are always looking for innovative methods to help our members.

RacingFX provides a simple and cost efficient way to manage international payments making the system very useful for overseas sales purchases, regular payments to suppliers and particularly for anyone that has international owners. I am very impressed with the online service so far and by working together there will be more to come, including more unique benefits for our members. For anyone that hasn’t already seen it, I would encourage members to check out the new login/ sign up box on the homepage of the NTF website.”

Andy Rowland, CEO of RacingFX, said: “During a time that online financial fraud is becoming more and more prevalent, we pride ourselves on supplying a service that is not only convenient but a very secure network for the equine industry. It is very exciting to have the support of the NTF as we feel passionately about providing useful and inexpensive services in the equine industry.”

For more information, contact Tom Jonason, Head of Business Development, RacingFX E: tjonason@racingfx.co.uk M: +44 (0) 77866 34705

LINE-UP FOR CHAMPIONS WILLBERRY CHARITY RACE AT CHELTENHAM ANNOUNCED Over 600 members of the public applied to ride in the Champions Willberry Charity Race at Cheltenham, the Home of Jump Racing, on Thursday, April 20, 2017. The race is in aid of The Bob Champion Cancer Trust and Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity.

Each selected rider has pledged to raise a minimum of £2,500 and it is hoped the day will make at least £100,000 to be split evenly between the two charities.

Bob Champion said: “Selection was so hard.

Everyone who applied was worthy so it all came down to suitability and fundraising. We hope we have got a good mix of people and that everyone else still comes along on the day, to join us for lunch, or just to watch, and to be a part of this special occasion.”

Ian Peters, Trustee of Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity commented: “We never cease to be

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amazed at the generosity and spirit of our supporters and we want to thank everyone who applied to ride in this race. Bob and Hannah are both an inspiration to the equestrian community and our shared goal of #kickingcancersbutt unites the charities in a common purpose. Now we want everyone, riders and supporters alike, to come and support the brave riders and both charities on the day.”

Ian Renton, from Cheltenham Racecourse, added: “The number of applicants to ride in the race were more than any of us could have expected and we’d like to thank everyone for their interest in the event. Selecting the final riders was incredibly hard but I believe we have a great line up of people to take part and hopefully raise plenty of money for two such worthwhile charities.”

Joining Nick Skelton, Ben Hobday, Tina Cook and William or Alice Fox-Pitt will be (in alphabetical order): Madeleine Bunbury, 21, is an artist based between Dorset and Mustique. She is a loyal supporter of Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony charity.

Anne Dawson, 37, from Bishops Stortford in Hertfordshire, is a policewoman and passionate equestrian. She feels the race is a legacy to Hannah Francis’s “bravery and memory” and Bob Champion’s inspirational story.

Abigail Dean, 27, from Gloucestershire, is an event rider who previously worked for the late Sir Henry Cecil, who himself fought cancer so bravely.

Sheikh Fahad Al Thani, 27 of Qatar is Chairman of Qatar Racing, a passionate supporter of British Racing and an equestrian enthusiast who recently took part in the 2016 Mongol Derby.

Scott Lowther, 43, from Waterbeck in Scotland, is the Director of a Construction Company. Mad keen on both racing and eventing, he describes himself as “not rich or famous” but passionate about the two causes this race will raise money for.

Catherine Mills, 37, from Amersham, works for a member’s only lifestyle and management company and is a keen event rider in her spare time.

Ben Moore, 39, is a soldier from Melton Mowbray. Before he joined the Army, he worked in racing and wants to do this race for his daughter who loves ponies but is currently fighting cancer.

Jasean Spraggett, 24, from Leicestershire, is a

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UK RACING NEWS show jumper and working hunter rider. Nicknamed ‘Quevega’ due to her love of all things Cheltenham, she has set herself an ambitious target of money she plans to raise for the Champions Willberry Charity Race.

RESERVES (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER): The reserves are Kim Franklin, 50, a property landlord from Hertfordshire, Ross Sanderson Jago, 39, a Bid Manager from Buckinghamshire and Alison Tyas, 36, a nursery assistant from Norfolk.

Please go to www.championswillberry.org.uk for all details of how to get involved in sponsorship of the race and the jockeys riding, how to attend the race and lunch on the day and how to donate.

ABOUT THE BOB CHAMPION CANCER TRUST Bob Champion was diagnosed with cancer in two parts of his body at the height of his riding career.

The dream that kept him going through the long months of chemotherapy was that one day he might win the Grand National on Aldaniti. Against all the odds, in 1981 his dream came true. Following racing’s greatest fairy-tale, The Bob Champion Cancer Trust was founded to raise funds to research testicular, prostate and other urological cancers. The Trust has funded the building of two research centres, The Bob Champion Cancer Research Laboratory, which forms part of the largest male dedicated research facility in Europe, situated at the Institute of Cancer Research in Sutton, Surrey, and the Bob Champion Research and Education Building at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, Norfolk. Both centres house research teams supported by the Trust. www.bobchampion.org.uk ABOUT HANNAH’S WILLBERRY WONDER PONY CHARITY Talented horse rider, Hannah Francis, was diagnosed with aggressive bone cancer in 2015. She was just 17 years old. In the year and half that followed Hannah, always aided by her mascot toy pony, Willberry Wonder Pony, amazed the equestrian community and people all over the world with her drive and determination. She continued to ride, even riding internationally under GB colours, and fulfilled many of her ‘bucket list’ wishes. Even more remarkably, she turned her sights

to what she could do to help people in her position in the future. In constant pain and undergoing relentless rounds of treatment she set up Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony Charity, registered in March 2016 (reg charity no 1166416). The charity funds bone cancer research, especially into osteosarcoma, and grants equine related wishes to seriously ill people. www.willberrywonderpony.org FOR FURTHER INFORMATION For further information about the Champions Willberry Charity Race Day go to: www.championswillberry.org.uk or contact Liz Ampairee, liz@lizampairee.com 0773 333 1945 or Lucy Wilkinson lucy@bobchampion.org.uk 020 7924 3553

POPULAR KINGS HEAD CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW EVENT UNVEILS STELLAR PANEL In aid of The Injured Jockeys Fund Join some of the top names in National Hunt for an exclusive Cheltenham preview event on Friday 10th March 2017 at The Kings Head in Cirencester, sponsored by Strutt & Parker.

Cheltenham Festival is the highlight of the National Hunt season, bringing together the best horses, the top jockeys and the biggest titles in the racing world to compete over the famous Cheltenham fences, culminating in the Gold Cup on Friday 18th March.

Come and hear the thoughts and opinions of some of the sports leading figures, including Gold Cup winning jockey Nico de Boinville, Luke Tarr from Star Sports, Gold Cup winning jockey and now successful trainer Sam Thomas, trainer Charlie Longsdon , presented by sports commentator Tom Clarkson and curated by Camilla Henderson.

We are also delighted Ben Hastie, Deputy Head of Groundstaff at Cheltenham will be giving us an exclusive update on the ground conditions on the course. Tickets includes drinks and canapés at The Kings Head, and discussion and insight into all of the top races from Cheltenham week, including the Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Chase, Ryanair Chase and of course, the Gold Cup.

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NEWS UK RACING Guests will also be able to ask the panel questions in a Q&A session, and enjoy exclusive special betting offers from Star Sports ‘ The Gentleman’s Bookmaker’ on the night, who are offering £50 free matching bet for all attendees.

With £25 charity bets from the panel, an exclusive pocket preview guide and the chance to meet some of the leading lights of the National Hunt world, the evening promises to give a fascinating insight to the most important week of the racing world, with all proceeds going to The Injured Jockeys Fund.

Events starts at 7pm, tickets are £15 per person – to book please call 01285 700 900

BHA PUBLISHES THREE YEAR BUSINESS PLAN AND BUDGET The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has today published a business plan and budget guide covering the three-year period 2017-2019.

Approved by the BHA Board, the business plan provides greater certainty to participants as to the level of future fees and shows where their fees are being directed over the next three years.

Headlines from the business plan and budget guide include: The agreed budget has been designed to breakeven over a three-year period, with the BHA’s cash reserves remaining between £3 million and £4 million The budget includes annual savings of £1.1 million to be made by the BHA by 2019, and an increase in fees of 7.5% spread over three years Recognising the short-term financial uncertainty faced by the sport in 2017 before racing gets access to funds from the Levy replacement, fee increases will be phased-in and will increase by the lower rate of 2% in 2017, rising by 2.75% in 2018 and 2.75% in 2019.

Nick Rust, Chief Executive of the BHA, said: “We’ve set a budget that will enable the BHA to deliver more for our sport while phasing in fee changes over a three year period and keeping increases to an absolute minimum.”

“I appreciate that any increase is unwelcome and that our sport’s participants are yet to see the benefit of increased funding from the Levy. That’s why we’re committed to delivering total annual savings

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of £1.1 million in the BHA’s budget by 2019 and are limiting the increase in fees in 2017 to 2%.”

The BHA’s budget for 2016 was forecast to deliver a cash deficit of £770,000. Despite incurring additional costs in some areas, it is likely that the actual deficit will be better than forecast, somewhere in the region of £600,000.

This has been achieved through improved income performance, making savings in people and project costs, and by securing increased output from suppliers at no additional cost. Savings have been partly offset by increases in legal and professional fees relating to setting up the new Racing Authority and costs associated with some of the important integrity issues we have been dealing with this year.

The agreed budget will enable the BHA to break-even while delivering a number of essential new initiatives including: • Setting up the new Racing Authority to take control of future Levy income • Developing and implementing a new equine welfare strategy • Increasing the volume of horse testing to keep our sport fair and clean • Addressing industry staffing challenges including recruitment, training and welfare initiatives • Making important changes to our disciplinary panels and processes following our Integrity Review and Christopher Quinlan QC’s review of the structure and composition of our Disciplinary Panel, Appeal Board and Licensing Committee.

• Expanding our Government relations to focus on racing’s significant economic footprint, including jobs and rural businesses, education and welfare • Establishing a leadership role in UK sport and international racing in areas of anti-doping and sports governance.

Nick Rust added: “Balancing increased activity with continued efficiency will enable us to deliver more for our sport while continuing to manage our budget prudently.”

“Despite having a three-year plan, the BHA’s performance will remain subject to an annual review, enabling our members and stakeholders to hold us to account for both our delivery and financial management.”

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NEWS IRISH RACING

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APPLE’S JADE ENDS VROUM VROUM MAG RUN IN A BRILLIANT HATTON’S GRACE HURDLE The Fairyhouse crowd were treated to a real winter warmer as Apple’s Jade got the better of Vroum Vroum Mag in an exciting and desperately tight finish to the Grade 1 Bar One Racing Hatton’s Grace Hurdle.

Seven lined-up for this prestigious 2 ½ mile contest and it was the mare Whiteout who set off in front of Shaneshill, with Apple’s Jade in close order and then Ivanovich Gorbatov.

Danny Mullins, attempting to repeat the tactics successful on Airlie Beach opened up a lead of 1 ½ lengths on Whiteout, with Apple’s Jade and Shaneshill next and then Vroum Vroum Mag on the inside, followed by Monksland.

The order remained the same racing down the back straight, with Apple’s Jade taking closer order.

At the fourth last, Whiteout led Apple’s Jade and Shaneshill, with Monskland on their heels and the field relatively closely bunched.

Apple’s Jade travelled powerfully at the third last but Whiteout narrowly touched down in front, with

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Monksland being chased along on the wide outside and Shaneshill and Vroum Vroum Mag short of room.

Apple’s Jade went on at the second last, chased

by Ivanovich Gorbatov and Shaneshill, as Vroum Vroum Mag finally got room.

Racing to the last, Vroum Vroum Mag showed tremendous acceleration to close, but at the last Apple’s Jade landed in front. It looked as though Vroum Vroum Mag’s momentum would take her into the lead on the flat, but the four year old Apple’s Jade, dug in deep on the inside rail and refused to yield.

In a tremendous climax the pair flashed past the post with the result on the nod – and it was the younger Apple’s Jade, who gained the day, becoming the first horse to lower the colours of Vroum Vroum Mag since she had joined Willie Mullins, recording ten straight victories.

The front two pulled well clear of Shaneshill who made a bad mistake at the last, with Ivanovich Gorbatov fourth.

Apple’s Jade was giving trainer Gordon Elliott a big victory just eight days after she had finished a closing second to Irving in the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle.

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IRISH RACING NEWS

AIRLIE BEACH IN SEVENTH HEAVEN WITH ROYAL BOND SUCCESS Airlie Beach kept her unbeaten record firmly in tact with a game all the way victory in the Grade 1 Bar One Racing Royal Bond Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Seven went to post for a race that nearly always has a significant bearing on the championship races later in the season.

Airlie Beach was quickly into her stride but Labaik never got out of the starting point, reducing the field to six.

The mare Airlie Beach was joined by Le Martalin and this pair soon pulled five lengths clear of the remaining quartet, as they headed out with a circuit to run.

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Racing down the back straight, Airlie Beach held a slender lead over Le Martalin, with Peace News and Saturnas racing together and then Penhill racing with Forge Meadow.

With three to jump, the order remained the same but the pack had closed up on the front pair.

Airlie Beach turned for home inching a little further clear under Danny Mullins and took the second last with a two length lead from Peace News who crashed out.

Airlie Beach was left clear heading to the last with Saturnas and Le Martalin flat out and making no impression. The mare skipped over the last to run out a clear winner over Saturnas, with Le Martalin third and then Penhill, who along with Forge Meadow had been hampered by the faller.

The Willie Mullins trained six year old Airlie Beach was extending her unbeaten run to seven and recording victory at the highest level for the first time.

CONEY ISLAND OPENS HIS ACCOUNT OVER FENCES IN GRADE 1 STYLE Coney Island, on just his second start over fences, put up an accomplished performance to win the Grade 1 Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse.

Seven horses set off for this 2 ½ mile chase, with Coney Island, Alpha Des Obeaux and Lieutenant Colonel forming a line of three at the first fence.

The latter two pressed on at the second fence, ahead of Coney Island and Diamond King, with Road To Respect next.

As the field headed out on the final circuit, Alpha Des Obeaux held a narrow lead over Lieutenant Colonel, with this pair a couple of lengths ahead of Coney Island.

The field closed up at the seventh fence, where Lieutenant Colonel made a bad error and dropped back through the field.

Up front, Alpha Des Obeaux continued to lead from Coney Island and Diamond King, with Lieutenant Colonel moving back up on the outside as the field raced to the fifth last, but he blundered again there and dropped back once again.

Leaving the back and racing to the third from home it was still Alpha Des Obeaux with Diamond King moving into second and Coney Island n the inside. Out wider Road To Respect closed while A Toi Phil crept closer to the inside, with Anibale Fly between horses.

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NEWS IRISH RACING Into the straight and Alpha Des Obeaux landed in front two out, but was quickly tackled by Coney Island, with six still in contention although Lieutenant Colonel had pulled up.

Coney Island pressed on at the last and jumped well, while Diamong King, still holding his chance, blundered.

On the flat Mark Walsh and Coney Island pressed clear of the staying on Anibale Fly, with Alpha Des Obeaux beaten off in third and Road To Respect fourth.

The Eddy Harty trained 5 year old Coney Island had been a useful novice hurdler and remarkably was breaking his maiden over fences in this Grade 1 contest.

LANDOFHOPEANDGLORY MADE TO WORK HARD TO PRESERVE UNBEATEN RECORD Landofhopeandglory will have learnt plenty and his knuckled down well to pass Bapaume and win the Grade 3 Bar One Racing Juvenile Hurdle at Fairyhouse.

A really high class day of racing got underway with a fascinating three year old hurdle contest.

Six horses lined-up and as the tapes went up, it was the two French imports making their Irish debuts, Bapaume and Soir De Chantenay who led from Mega Fortune.

With two flights negotiated, Ruby Walsh and Bapaume headed out into the country with a clear advantage from Soir De Chantanay, with Landofhopeandglory moving into third, ahead of Mega Fortune.

The order remained unchanged racing down the back, before Soir De Chantanay came to join Bapaume with four left to jump.

Racing into the home straight, Bapaume, hugging the inside rail, held a narrow advantage with Landofhopeandglory and Mega Fortune looming large.

Bapaume quickened over the second last and went a length up on Landofhopeandglory with both jumping the in unison. But it was Landofhopeandglory who was the more fluent and asserted on the flat,

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responding well to Barry Geraghty and winning by about a length from the impressive Bapaume, with Mega Fortune, a little tapped for toe in the final sprint, staying on again for third.

The Joseph O’Brien trained Landofhopeandglory was completing a hat-trick of wins over timber.

THE RIGHT ATTRIBUTION SEALS VICTORY AT NAVAN Attribution on a sprint to the line to beat Briar Hill in the Grade 3 Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Klairon Davis Novice Chase at Navan this afternoon.

Four horses lined up for this two mile and one furlong contest.

Three Stars went into the early lead from Briar Hill as the field took the first, but Attribution moved on into second as the field took the fence in front of the stands.

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Three Stars continued in front of Attribution as the field raced down the back, with Briar Hill third and then It Came To Pass and that was the order over the fifth fence.

The front pair jumped the sixth last in unison and similarly matched strides at the last in the back straight, with their two pursuers also matching strides, a couple of lengths behind.

Three Stars edged back into the lead turning for home with Attribution racing next to him and Briar Hill moving closer in third.

The front three touched down in unison and headed to the second last in a line. There was still little in it as they race to the final fence, with Attribution

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IRISH RACING NEWS and Three Stars touching down together, a length ahead of Briar Hill.

In a spring to the line, Attribution and Bryan Cooper found the best turn of foot as Briar Hill finally found a gear and closed, without looking like catching his rival, At the line the white faced Attribution won by about three quarters of a length from Briar Hill with Three Stars finishing a close third in a Henry de Bromhead first and third.

DJAKADAM RETURNS WITH A BATTLING DISPLAY IN THE JOHN DURKAN Djakadam had to work hard but showed all his old fighting qualities to see off a new generation of chasers and win his second successive Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase at Punchestown.

A field of five went to post for this important contest, with Willie Mullins dominating the entries, fielding three of the five runners.

At the off, it was Sub Lieutenant who went into the lead from Djakadam, with this pair a couple of lengths clear of Black Hercules, Outlander and Alelchi Inois.

Sub Lieutenant took the second fence a couple of lengths ahead of last year’s winner Djakadam, and took the field down the home straight, where Black Hercules was a little untidy at the third.

With a circuit to race, Djakadam had closed up on Sub Lieutenant, with this pair a couple ahead of

Outlander and Black Hercules.

The front two raced down the back straight together, but Djakadam made an error at the seventh, handing the initiative back to Sub Lieutenant, with Outlander and Black Hercules closing, while Alelchi Inois raced a few lengths behind.

Six out and Djakadam came back to join the leader, with their nearest pursuers in striking distance.

Up front, the tempo increased and Djakadam, having jumped five out well, came to challenged Sub Lieutenant, while Outlander and Black Hercules remained in touch.

Sub Lieutenant went back in front three out, where Black Hercules made an error and quickly dropped out.

Into the home straight and Outlander came to challenge the front two.

Djakadam found more for Ruby Walsh and led at the last, jumping well to see off Outlander, as Sub Lieutenant tired in third.

The Willie Mullins trained 7 year old landed running and despite having not run this season, found plenty to repel Outlander in second, with Sub Lieutenant a close third.

The front three were well clear of Alelchi Inois and the disappointing Black Hercules who dropped away tamely.

Djakadam was winning this race for the second year running and is of course a dual Cheltenham Gold Cup runner-up. It will be interesting to see if connections take that route again or opt to drop in trip for the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham in March.

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NEWS IRISH RACING

DOUVAN IN TOTAL COMMAND IN THE HILLY WAY CHASE Douvan was a little sticky at a couple of fences, but powered his way to an effortless victory in the Grade 2 Kerry Group Hilly Way Chase at Cork.

With Vukovar an absentee, six horses lined up to face Douvan on his seasonal reappearance, just fifteen minutes after stable mate Djakadam had made a winning return at Punchestown.

At the start there was a real sprint to the first, with Douvan pulling his way to the front and putting in a beautiful leaf to lead from Mozoltov and The Game Changer, with Days Hotel prominent and then Fine Rightly.

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Douvan led the field down the home straight and in front of the stands at the fourth fence, with a 3 length advantage from Mozoltov, with The Game Changer and Fine Rightly a couple of lengths further back and matching strides.

Racing down the back, Douvan sailed over the fifth and continued to jump well.

Douvan got a little close to the sixth last and Fine Rightly closed up, but over the next, Douvan effortlessly increased his lead to two lengths again.

The leader poured it on over four out and turned for home 8 lengths clear.

He was again a little tight three out, where Mozoltov fell and brought down Gilgamboa. The Game Changer pulled up heading to the second last.

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Two out and Douvan was drawing miles clear and he took the last in splendid isolation, perhaps 20 lengths clear of Days Hotel and Fine Rightly, with Ludo Et Emergo the last to finish.

Any suggestions that Douvan might be vulnerable on his seasonal return were banished as he moved smoothly away from his rivals, with those that had tried to keep pace with him earlier, paying the price for those endeavours.

This was easily the most impressive performance of the season so far among the leading two milers and for the first time showcased Douvan’s ability against older, more seasoned chasers in Ireland. The outcome was emphatic.

LISTEN DEAR SLAMS RIVALS AT CORK Listen Dear landed a fifth win on the day for trainer Willie Mullins, as she proved a class apart from her rivals in the Grade 3 Kerry Group European Breeders Fund Mares Novice Chase at Cork this afternoon.

A field of eight lined-up for this two miles and one furlong contest.

Listen Dear was straight into the lead and led at the first from Annamatopoeia but Billy Billy was a faller.

The Willie Mullins mare, unbeaten in her last five starts continued to lead and at halfway had built up a 6 lengths lead, with the field well strung out behind her.

Racing to the end of the back straight, Listen Dear was still cleat of Annamatopoeia and Hello Sweetie, with Girly Girl next.

Listen Dear turned for home travelling well under Paul Townend and took the third last clear.

At the second last she was still five lengths clear of Annamatopoeia, as Daisy’s Gift, in arrears at the time, was a faller.

Listed Dear took the last well, striding out for an easy victory here, with Misty Lady getting up for second, ahead of Annamatopoeia.

This 6 year old mare was giving her rivals weight and a fearful beating, completing an across the card five-timer for trainer Willie Mullins.

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IRISH RACING NEWS

DEATH DUTY PRESERVES HIS UNBEATEN RECORD AT NAVAN

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EASY VICTORY FOR YORKHILL ON HIS CHASE DEBUT Yorkhill, one of the outstanding novice hurdlers of last season, recorded a facile victory on his novice chase debut in the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Beginners Chase at Fairyhouse.

A field of nine went to post for this two mile contest, but all eyes were focussed on the brilliant Yorkhill, having won seven on the trot, including the Grade 1 Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, before a shock defeat at the Punchestown Festival in April.

Hurry Henry and Burgas took the field along in the early stages, with Yorkhill on their heels.

Racing away from the stands, with a circuit to race, Yorkhill moved into the lead from Burgas and started to open up, with this pair well clear of the remaining seven.

Yorkhill continued in front, stretching his lead over Burgas, with the rest a long way behind, as the leader took the third last, jumping out to his left.

He powered into the home straight under Ruby Walsh and took the second last again to his left, before strolling on. At the last Yorkhill jumped well to record an easy victory over Burgas, with a wide gap back to Hurry Henry and Larry Capri.

The Willie Mullins trained six year old won this effortlessly although his tendency to jump left could prove an issue in tougher competition.

Death Duty continued his progression with another flawless performance as he powered to victory in the Grade 2 Navan Novice Hurdle this afternoon.

Six horses went to post for what looked beforehand to be a strong renewal.

Labaik sadly once again planted himself at the start, reducing the field to five, with Monalee leading over the first flight from Death Duty.

Monalee opened up a two length lead over Death Duty, with Invitation Only on that one’s heels, followed by Wishmoor and Moulin A Vent.

The order remained the same as the field raced down the back and headed to the fourth last flight, with Death Duty edging a little closer to the leader Monalee, while Ruby Walsh bided his time on Invitation Only.

Into the home straight, Death Duty ranged alongside his rival and went on after the second last, with the front pair clear of Invitation Only.

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Death Duty asserted racing to the last flight and powered on impressively for a comfortable win, some five lengths clear of Monalee, with Invitation Only most disappointing and failing to pick up in third.

The Gordon Elliott trained Death Duty is still only a five year old and was making it three from three over timber. He has yet to be seriously tested.

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NEWS IRISH RACING

GORDON ELLIOTT EYEING FEBRUARY RETURN FOR DON COSSACK Gordon Elliott is eyeing the Red Mills Chase at Gowran in February as a possible starting point for last season’s Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Don Cossack.

The nine-year-old suffered a tendon injury while being prepared to run at Punchestown in April, but Elliott reports him to be making steady progress in his recovery.

Elliott is keen to give Don Cossack a relatively low-key return, with the Grade Two event at Gowran one of his preferred options at present.

He told At The Races: “I couldn’t be happier with him. He’s had 16 weeks cantering done now.

“Gerry Kelly, the vet, came to the yard the other day and felt his legs and said he couldn’t be happier with him, so we’ll keep our fingers crossed.

“I think the Kinloch Brae Chase at Thurles he won last year will probably come too soon.

“We might look at something like the Red Mills Chase in February. He will be entered in Leopardstown, but I’d prefer to keep it low key for his first run and maybe over a trip short of his best.

“We just want him to have a nice day out, coming back in one piece, and then go for the Gold Cup if we can.”

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BAPAUME EXACTS REVENGE ON LANDOFHOPEANDGLORY AT LEOPARDSTOWN Bapaume progressed from his recent Irish debut to impressively see off old rival Landofhopeandglory in the always informative Grade 2 Knight Frank Juvenile Hurdle on the opening day of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival.

Bapaume and Zig Zag took the field along through the early stages with Champagne Pat also prominent as a tightly bunched field headed past the stands with a circuit to run.

Zig Zag won the bttle for early supremacy and went five lengths clear down the back, followed by Champagne Pat and Bapaume, with Landofhopeandglory taking closer order to the outside, this trio ahead of Mega Fortune.

Zig Zag took the fourth last still clear of his three pursuers, with Mega Fortune a couple of lengths further back and clear of the remainder.

Heading out of the back straight, Zig Zag was still nicely clear of Bapaume and Landofhopeandglory, with Mega Fortune next and under pressure.

Zig Zag’s lead diminished at the second last with Bapaume sneaking up his inside and Landofhopeandglory coming to the outside.

This pair went clear racing to the last with a terrific duel. Bapaume held the advantage at the last and kept on gamely for Ruby Walsh and Landofhopeandglory had no answers and had to cede second best, only just holding on to that position from Mega Fortune.

The Willie Mullins trained Bapaume had won in France last spring and caught the eye on his Irish debut, when finishing a length second to Landofhopeandglory in a Fairyhouse Grade 3 in early December.

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IRISH RACING NEWS

BELLSHILL SOARS TO CLASSY WIN AT LIMERICK Bellshill was much too good for his rivals as he soared to a decisive win in the Grade 2 Shannon Airport Novice Chase at Limerick.

Just five horses went to post for this two mile, 3 ½ furlong contest and as the tapes went up, it was Haymout who led from Attribution, with the pair a few lengths ahead of Bellshill and Diamond King, with the mare Who’s That soon in arrears.

Racing towards the fifth, Haymount led from Attribution, with Bellshill and Diamond King having closed-up on the front pair.

The order was the same passing the stands with a circuit to run, with Haymount setting a fairly sedate pace and narrowly leading from the white-faced Attribution.

Four out and the front pair continued to race closely together, with Bellshill not far behind and then Diamond King.

Haymount raced to the second last just ahead of Attribution, with Bellshill biding his time in third and then Diamond King and Who’s That.

At the second last Bellshill quickened up on the inside to join Haymount and powered on at the last, jumping well and going clear for an impressive win over Haymount and Attribution, with Diamond King a well beaten fourth.

Bellshill’s victory, his second from as many starts over fences, gave trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Paul Townend a double on the card.

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MIN POWERS TO BRILLIANT VICTORY AT LEOPARDSTOWN

Min completed a Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh hat-trick with a flawless performance, powering away for a brilliant win in the Grade 1 Racing Post Novice Chase at Leopardstown.

Seven went to post for this two mile, one furlong race, which was billed beforehand as a clash between Identity Thief and Min. As the tapes went up, it was Identity Thief who went into the lead joined by Min, and this pair took the first ahead of Baily Cloud and Three Stars.

Min edged into a narrow lead on the inside of Identity Thief, as the field headed out with a circuit to race.

Racing down the back straight, Min led a closely bunched field, but at the fourth fence, Identity Thief made a mistake and dropped back. A further mistake saw him pulled up.

Min meanwhile, led from Baily Cloud and Road To Respect, with Ordinary World tracking these and then Three Stars and Tully East.

Min left the back and took the third last with a lead of about 1 ½ lengths from Baily Cloud and Road To Respect, as Ordinary World continued to creep closer.

Min led two out and began to increase the tempo as he turned for home, with Baily Cloud under pressure and Road To Respect and Ordinary World giving chase.

At the last Min jumped well and powered on, with his three pursuers losing ground but having a great battle for the minor honours.

Min and Ruby Walsh put down a serious Cheltenham marker, clearing away for a most impressive win, with Ordinary World gaining the best of the fight for second, ahead of Road To Respectg and Baily Cloud.

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NEWS IRISH RACING

SATURNAS IMPRESSES AS MULLINS DOMINATES AT LEOPARDSTOWN

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DOUVAN WINS WITH DISDAINFUL EASE AT LEOPARDSTOWN Douvan proved again that he is in a different class to his two mile contemporaries as he won the Grade 1 Paddy Power Cashcard Chase with effortless disdain at Leopardstown.

Just five horses went to post for this two mile, one furlong race, but all eyes were just on the one horse beforehand, the mighty Douvan.

As the tapes went up, Alisier D’Irlande went straight into a lead of six lengths, taking the first fence clear of Douvan, with Black Hercules racing between Sizing John and Simply Ned. Heading away from the stands, Alisier D’Irlande was clear at the second and maintained his sizeable advantage over Douvan, taking the fourth fence roughly ten lengths clear.

The leader cleared the fifth fence still seven lengths ahead of Douvan, who was a couple of lengths in front of the other three.

Gradually the field began to reel in Alisier D’Irlande, who took four out with a lead of only two lengths and Douvan breathing down his neck, followed

by Simply Ned, Sizing John and Black Hercules.

Racing to the second last fence, Douvan ranged alongside the long time leader and eased into the lead, with Simply Ned under pressure and giving chase.

Douvan coasted to the last fence on the bridle and jumped it well, powering clear, with his old adversary Sizing John staying on well for second, although no match for the imperious winner.

Simply Ned came home third, ahead of Black Hercules.

The Willie Mullins trained 6 year old was winning his 13th straight race, his only defeat coming on his racecourse debut in France.

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Willie Mullins’ memorable Christmas continued as Saturnas showed fine fighting qualities to hold off Brelade in the Grade 1 Paddy Power Future Champions Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown.

Seven went to post for what is often an informative two mile contest. Le Martalin went straight into the lead from Saturnas and Peace News and took the first with a lead of a couple of lengths.

At the third flight, Le Martalin still held a healthy lead over Saturnas, with Sunni May to the inside and then Peace News, Brelade, Lion In His Heart and Riven Light, who had not been entirely fluent to that point.

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Racing to the fifth hurdle, Le Martalin still led, but the field came to join him, with Saturnas to his outside, travelling well and almost joined by Peace News on the wide outside.

Leaving the back and racing to the second last flight, Le Martalin held a narrow advantage to the inside of Saturnas and Peace News, with Brelade making strong progress.

Saturnas and Brelade went into the lead on the turn for home and battled to the final flight, with Saturnas and Paul Townend getting the best of the argument and opening up. A good jump sealed the victory with Brelade unable to respond to the gallop, as Saturnas gave Willie Mullins a fourth winner on the day.

Brelade ran well for second, with Sunni May staying on in third.

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IRISH RACING NEWS

NOBLE ENDEAVOUR STRIKES IN THE PADDY POWER CHASE Noble Endeavour was given a patient ride by Davy Russell and was delivered with perfect timing at the last to win the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown.

A field of 25 lined up for one of the most competitive handicap chases of the season in Ireland.

At the off Stellar Notion was prominent with Shadow Catcher and Otago Trail, as the field all cleared the first fence.

Settling down, Stellar Notion and Otago Trail took the second fence together and it was the English runner who went narrowly on, with Tennis Cap just behind the front two.

Heading out of the back for the first time, Stellar Notion and Otago Trailer matched strides ahead of Rolly Baby and Kilford, with New Kid In Town next and then Thunder And Roses and Dromnea.

The field streamed past the stands with New Kid In Town, racing on the inside, moving into the lead from Otago Trail and Stellar Notion, with Kilford and Shadow Catcher in close order, along with As De Pique.

Stellar Notion moved back in front racing down the back from Tennis Cap and Venitien De Mai was the first casualty in the race.

Taking the fourth last, Stellar Notion and Tennix Cap were joined by Rolly Baby, with Dromnea making ground while Rogue Angel began to improve and Kilford meanwhile unseated his rider.

Stellar Notion and Rolly Baby took the third last ahead of Rogue Angel and Dromnea, with Sonny B also close up and Noble Endeavour.

But Stellar Notion increased his advantage racing to the last, challenged by Oscar Knight, Sonny B and Noble Endeavour.

Sonny B blundered away his chance and Noble Endeavour went on and drew away under Davy Russell, winning by about three lengths from The Crafty Butcher, who stayed on from the back of the field for second, ahead of Oscar Knight and longtime leader Stellar Notion.

VROUM VROUM MAG RESUMES WINNING WAYS AT LEOPARDSTOWN Vroum Vroum Mag came back to form with her third career Grade 1 victory in the Squared Financial Christmas Hurdle at Leopardstown.

A field of eight assembled for this three mile contest, with Willie Mullins responsible for four runners, as he bid to add to a remarkable Christmas tally, which had seen him land 15 races in two and a half days at Leopardstown and Limerick beforehand.

Shaneshill set off in front from Whiteout and Milsean, with Vroum Vroum Mag settled just behind these.

With a circuit to race, Shaneshill continued in the lead with the field relatively bunched.

Four from home Shaneshill held a two length lead from Vroum Vroum Mag but the cards had yet to be played.

Patrick Mullins took the swing out of the back straight and headed to the second last flight still ahead of Vroum Vroum Mag and Kotkikova, with Snow Falcon and Whiteout and then De Plotting Shed.

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Shaneshill led to the home turn where Vroum Vroum Mag ranged up to his outside. The long-time leader came under strong pressure at the last and crashed to the ground as Vroum Vroum Mag was getting the better of him.

On the flat Vroum Vroum Mag was ridden out

by Ruby Walsh, with Clondaw Warrior keeping on well under his sister Katie, with Snow Falcon third.

Vroum Vroum Mag appeared to be on top at the time of Shaneshill’s fall and the 7 year old mare made it 11 wins from 12 starts since she joined Mullins.

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NEWS IRISH RACING

OUTLANDER WINS A THRILLING LEXUS CHASE Outlander showed improvement to win a thrilling battle for the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown.

A field of 13 went to post for a proper, competitive Grade 1 contest over three miles.

Arctic Skipper took the field along through the early stages with Don Poli to the inner and Smashing.

As the field left the back straight for the first time, Zabana moved up on the outside to join Arctic Skipper and the grey Smashing.

It was Smashing who moved to the head of affairs as the field passed the stands and turned left onto their final circuit, with Outlander at the back, but maybe no more than 6 lengths off the leader.

Racing down the back, Smashing opened up a lead of about 5 lengths over Zabana and Arctic Skipper with Don Poli, Wounded Warrior and Djakadam next.

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Six out and Smashing’s lead had been cut to 2 lengths in what was still a wide-open race.

At the fourth last Smashing was joined by Arctic Skipper and Don Poli, with Zabana out wide and then Djakadam and More Of That.

Don Poli landed in front at the third last but all 13 horses were still in touch.

On the home bend, Zabana and Don Poli led with Valseur Lido travelling powerfully with Outlander also looming large between horses, while the improving Djakadam was a little short of room.

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At the last, the Gigginstown trio of Outlander, Valseur Lido and Don Poli jumped together, and on the flat there was momentarily a line of four, before Outlander, under Jack Kennedy, surged on in a dramatic finish, winning by a couple of lengths to beat last season’s Gold Cup second and third, with Don Poli just getting second on this occasion from Djakadam.

Valseur Lido faded on the run-in and came home fourth, with Taquin Du Seuil a staying on fifth and then More Of That.

LET’S DANCE PROVES FLEET OF FOOT AT LEOPARDSTOWN Let’s Dance completed another four-timer for Willie Mullins with a facile win in the Grade 3 Willis Towers Watson European Breeders Fund Mares Hurdle at Leopardstown.

Let’s Dance went into the lead from flag fall and was chased by Slow Motion, this pair quickly drawing a long way clear of Solita, Daisy’s Gift and Love On Top. Let’s Dance and Ruby Walsh moved a couple of lengths ahead of Slow Motion as they took the flight in front of the stands and raced off on their final circuit.

The order remained unchanged as Let’s Dance and Slow Motion took the fifth last well clear of Solita, who in turn had a big break on the remaining two.

Slow Motion came to join Let’s Dance at the third last flight and Solita started to close, as the leading trio turned away from the back straight and raced to the second from home.

Let’s Dance on the inside, landed marginally in front as the front pair settled down to fight, drawing away from Solita.

It was Let’s Dance though, who travelled the strongest and went away from Slow Motion, taking the final flight 8 lengths clear and jumping well, before strolling to an impressive victory.

Slow Motion had a good cut at Let’ Dance but had no answers in the straight, finishing a well beaten second, clear of Solita.

Let’s Dance made it 21 winners for Willie Mullins at Leopardstown and Limerick this Christmas, a stunning tally for three and a half days.

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IRISH RACING NEWS

OUR DUKE GAME RALLY SEALS GRADE 1 TRIUMPH AT LEOPARDSTOWN

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PENHILL IMPRESSES IN LIMERICK GRADE 2 SUCCESS Penhill revelled over the longer trip as he readily put his rivals to the sword in the Grade 2 Guinness Novice Hurdle at Limerick.

Just five went to post for this three mile contest in testing ground.

Rathnure Rebel went into the early lead and was joined by Livelovelaugh at the first, with the Willie Mullins runner moving into a clear lead at the second.

As the quintet raced down the back straight for the first time, Livelovelaugh continued to take the field along from Rathnure Rebel, with He Rock’s third and then Call The Taxie to the inside of Penhill.

The order remained the same as the five passed the winning post with a circuit to run and Livelovelaugh a couple of lengths ahead of Rathnure Rebel.

With five to jump, He Rock’s was the first to crack, as Livelovelaugh increased the tempo, but was the rabbit for Rathnure Rebel, Call The Taxie and Penhill.

Racing to the turn the front four bunched up and Rathnure Rebel started to struggle.

Livelovelaugh led on the turn for home but was pressed by Call The Taxie, while Penhill cantered alongside his rivals and eased to the front at the second last, clearing away most impressively and a sound jump at the last settled matters by a wide margin from Call The Taxie, with Livelovelaugh third.

This was yet another winner in an astonishing week for trainer Willie Mullins and rider Paul Townend, as the giant 5 year old Penhill showed three miles to be his forte.

Our Duke showed the heart of a lion to fight back in a tremendous three-way battle for the Grade 1 Neville Hotels Novice Chase at Leopardstown.

Nine lined-up for this three mile contest with Bellow Mome taking the first in front of Our Duke and Alpha Des Obeaux.

With four jumped, Bellow Mome held a narrow lead from Martello Tower to the inside and then Alpha Des Obeaux and Our Duke, with Disko on the heels of the leaders along with Coney Island.

Bellow Mome took a closely bunched field into the home straight and out onto their final circuit.

Briar Hill crashed out before the field reached the back straight but was thankfully up quickly.

Meanwhile, Our Duke and Alpha Des Obeaux went on from Bellow Mome who started to back pedal, with Coney Island, Martello Tower and Disko all prominent and A Toi Phil getting closer.

In a wide open race, Our Duke narrowly led at the fifth from home with the grey Disko disputing and Coney Island close up.

Disko moved to the front four out but the remaining eight were within five lengths. Bellow Mome hit the third last hard and dropped back.

At two out Disko led from Coney Island who travelled well, with A Toi Phil still improving and then Our Duke.

At the last Disko was in front but under pressure and joined by Coney Island, while Our Duke stayed on again to the inside.

The three all jumped the last well and settled down for a stirring race to the line. Disko touched down in front, but Coney Island, racing between horses, hit the front. However, as Disko rallied to the stands side, Our Duke and Robbie Power, with the rail to help, also came back into contention and their game effort saw them hit the front with less than 100 yards to race.

At the line Our Duke gained the verdict by about ½ a length from Coney Island, with Disko a close third, this trio miles clear of Martello Tower and A Toi Phil.

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NEWS IRISH RACING This was a tremendous result for the Jessica Harrington team, as this 6 year old had only made his chasing debut just over three weeks earlier, when impressively beating Gwencily Berbas at Navan.

PETIT MOUCHOIR STAKES HIS CHAMPION HURDLE CLAIMS AT LEOPARDSTOWN A masterful tactical ride from Bryan Cooper and an impressive turn of foot, sealed a notable victory for the improving Petit Mouchoir in the Grade 1 Ryanair Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The final major race of a memorable Christmas Festival saw a field of five, headed by last year’s winner Nichols Canyon.

As the quintet set off on their two mile trip, it was Nichols Canyon who jumped off in front of former stable mate Petit Mouchoir, with Jer’s Girl third and then Footpad and Ivanovich Gorbatov.

Racing past the post with a circuit to race, the grey Petit Mouchoir went on and opened up a two length advantage over Nichols Canyon, with a gap back to the other three.

Petit Mouchoir continued to lead by about 2 ½ lengths from Nichols Canyon down the back straight, with Jer’s Girl third and then Footpad and Ivanovich Gorbatov.

Three out and the order remained the same, although Nichols Canyon moved closer on the turn towards the second last flight.

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Nichols Canyon jumped nearly upsides Petit Mouchoir at the second from home, but the grey quickened on the home turn for Bryan Cooper and opened up a five length lead heading to the last.

He jumped the last well, with Nichols Canyon unable to close, and the Henry de Bromhead trained 5 year old passed the line with a clear and uncontested lead.

Nichols Canyon fought on well to claim second place, but had no answer to the winner’s turn of foot, while Ivanovich Gorbatov stayed on for third, ahead of Footpad and the very disappointing Jer’s Girl.

Petit Mouchoir had given the impression he was improving earlier in the autumn and had still been travelling well when coming to grief in the home straight, in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle. He gained ample compensation here as he entered the Champion Hurdle reckoning.

AGREEMENT REACHED ON PAY TERMS AND EXPENSES FOR IRISH STABLE STAFF A new pay deal from 1st January 2017 until 1st May 2019 has been agreed between the Irish Stable Staff Association (ISSA) and the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association (IRTA). Minimum pay rates for experienced stable staff in Ireland will rise from €9.75 per hour to €10.75 per hour. Expenses for a day meeting will increase from €40 to €50 and expenses for an evening meeting will increase from €50 to €60.

Agreement on pay and conditions follows extensive negotiations between the Irish Stable Staff Association and the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association over the last number of months.

Carol Nolan, Horse Racing Ireland’s Director of People and Industry Education acted as a mediator throughout the discussions.

Although minimum terms and conditions of employment were established under the existing ‘Agricultural Workers Joint Labour Committee’ it was decided by both organisations that a separate agreement should be reached recognising the uniqueness of employment in the horse racing industry in Ireland.

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IRISH RACING NEWS The new pay and expenses terms that have been agreed are the minimum levels. The agreement does not prevent a trainer from paying more favourable terms and conditions at a local level which many trainers have in place already. However, this agreement prohibits any trainer licenced by the Turf Club in Ireland from paying less favourable terms.

Bernard Caldwell, Chairman of the Irish Stable Staff Association, commented: “After much negotiation, we have reached an agreement that our members are happy to accept. Pay and conditions needed to improve and this was understood by all parties. Our members are often described, and rightly so, as the backbone of the industry, but that needed to be recognised in real terms, which has now happened.”

Carol Nolan, Horse Racing Ireland’s Director of People and Industry Education, said: “The goodwill towards stable staff is evident throughout the industry. There is also an awareness that many trainers are still finding it challenging at this time.

This helped in bringing the parties together to work hard to reach an agreement that balanced everyone’s needs in an acceptable way.”

Michael Grassick, CEO of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association, said: “Our members represent a broad community in racing and have to work hard to stay in business in what are still challenging times.

The stable staff provide a vital service and keep the show on the road, so we are very pleased to have arrived at a workable solution.”

MINDING NAMED RACEHORSE OF THE YEAR AT THE HORSE RACING IRELAND AWARDS The winners of the 2016 Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) Awards were announced at Leopardstown Racecourse today, at a reception attended by many of the industry’s leading trainers, jockeys and owners.

Guest of honour was Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed TD and guests were welcomed by Chairman of HRI, Joe Keeling.

The winners at the 14th annual awards ceremony were as follows:

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Horse of the Year Award: Minding National Hunt Award: Willie Mullins Flat Award: Aidan O’Brien Contribution to the Industry Award: Mrs Maureen Mullins • Outstanding Achievement Award: Mouse Morris • Point-To-Point Award: Jamie Codd • Racecourse of the Year Award: Galway Racecourse Minding, trained by Aidan O’Brien and owned by Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier and Michael Tabor, won five of the seven Group 1 races she contested this year. She was successful in the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket in May and the Epsom Oaks before taking the Pretty Polly Stakes at the Curragh, the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood and the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot in October.

The National Hunt Award went to Champion Trainer Willie Mullins, who had another fantastic season with 34 Grade 1 wins worldwide, including seven at the Cheltenham Festival. Willie also saddled six Grade 1 winners at the Punchestown Festival, won the Guinness Galway Hurdle in July and enjoyed a first Classic winner with Wicklow Brave in the Palmerstown House Estate Irish St Leger at the Curragh.

Aidan O’Brien won the Flat Award after a truly remarkable year where he enjoyed 22 Group 1 wins worldwide along with a 1-2-3 in both the Newmarket 1,000 Guineas and the Prix De l’Arc De Triomphe. Champion Trainer in Ireland once again with 117 victories, he was also Champion Trainer in Britain with 13 Group 1 victories alone.

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NEWS IRISH RACING Brian Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Horse Racing Ireland, presented the Contribution to the Industry Award to the matriarch of the Mullins racing dynasty, Mrs Maureen Mullins. Maureen has been part of the Irish racing landscape for the best part of six decades and was married to one of Ireland’s greatest ever trainers, the late Paddy Mullins.

Brian Kavanagh said: “It was a pleasure to present the Contribution to the Industry award to a very special lady who is a most deserving winner.

From the likes of Hurry Harriet, Dawn Run, Grabel and Vintage Tipple, Maureen has witnessed the highs of racing on many occasions and is without doubt one of the most popular figures on the Irish racing scene.”

Trainer Mouse Morris won the Outstanding Achievement Award, which was decided by both the Irish racing media and racing fans. Mouse remarkably saddled the winner of both the Irish Grand National and the Aintree Grand National in the same season. Rogue Angel and Ger Fox prevailed in the BoyleSports Irish Grand National, while just 12 days later, Rule The World and David Mullins won the Aintree Crabbie’s Grand National.

Jockey Jamie Codd picked up the Point-ToPoint Award after winning a second national rider’s title despite suffering a serious injury on the opening day of the season. Jamie also guided Cause Of Causes to a second consecutive Cheltenham Festival win before deputising aboard On The Fringe to win the Aintree Foxhunters and he also recorded a first winner at the Galway Festival.

The Racecourse of the Year Award went to Galway Racecourse. It was selected by the Racegoers’ Consultative Forum based upon the best all-round customer experience.

Chairman of HRI, Joe Keeling commented: “The Horse Racing Ireland Awards allow us to shine the spotlight on the amazing achievements in Irish racing throughout the year. As always, the standard of nominations was extremely high and I would like to congratulate the very worthy winners and wish everyone in the Irish racing industry continued success in 2017.”

The award winners received bronze trophies, created by sculptor Siobhan Bulfin.

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HORSE RACING IRELAND APPROVES GRANT TOWARDS DOWN ROYAL RACECOURSE REDEVELOPMENTS The Board of Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has approved capital development grant aid of €183,000 for Down Royal Racecourse, to carry out improvements to its facilities which will cost in the region of €457,000. The grant aid, through the HRI Racecourse Capital Development scheme, will go towards projects to commence in early 2017, to provide significant improvements for Owners and Trainers, re-roofing of the main grandstand, and a re-configuration and modernisation of the weigh room and jockeys changing area.

A new permanent Owners and Trainers marquee will provide Down Royal with a dedicated area for Owners and Trainers, located trackside just after the finish line. The Governor’s Stand, facilitating the Owners and Trainers viewing gallery, located on the rooftop of the existing wine bar will also be refurbished. The works will include new terracing, a slip resistant resin compound decking to the external surface of the stand, and re-installation of the existing crowd barriers.

The roof of the existing 25-year-old grandstand will be replaced with new insulated roof panels, flashing, gutters and seals, thus considerably extending the lifespan of the facility.

The jockeys changing rooms, showers, sauna, canteen and weigh room are 14-years-old, and although they are very well maintained throughout, require extensive modernisation. Proposed works include the replacement of the current sauna, together with a remodelling of the toilet room, and improvements to the main changing area and jockeys canteen.

Brian Kavanagh, CEO of HRI said, “Down Royal is one of our most progressive racecourses and these redevelopments will help to improve the course and provide safe, modern and effective racing facilities. Owners, trainers and jockeys in particular will see the benefits of the significant improvements planned and we are happy to provide grant aid to facilitate these worthwhile projects.”

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IRISH RACING NEWS All 26 racecourses in Ireland were eligible to apply for funding under this scheme with HRI providing 40% of the cost of approved projects. It is estimated that the entire Racecourse Capital Development Fund will support in the region of 1300 direct and indirect jobs during the course of its completion.

Mike Todd, Down Royal Racecourse Manager added, “This is an exciting new development for Down Royal which is part of our overall strategy to continue to develop our facilities to ensure we can deliver a first-class experience to all racegoers.

Owners and trainers are integral to our sport and this development will allow us to improve their raceday experience at Down Royal whilst also increasing our covered catered areas for the general racegoers.”

TIPPERARY CANCER COLOUR FUN RUN RAISES IN EXCESS OF €70,000 The hugely successful Tipperary Cancer Colour Fun Run, hosted by Tipperary Racecourse, has raised over €70,000 for two very worthy charities - the Irish Cancer Society and Circle of Friends Cancer Support Centre, Tipperary. The unique run took place back in August and the atmosphere on the evening was electric, with over 500 runners of all ages from all over the country taking part. Former professional rugby player for Munster and Ireland,

Alan Quinlan, was among the runners that took part on the day. Trainers and jockeys including Fozzy Stack, Kate Harrington, Billy Lee and Emmet McNamara, Gary Carroll and Shane Foley also got involved in the fun run after racing, as well as a large number of people working in the racing and breeding industries.

Andrew Hogan, Tipperary Racecourse Manager: “We at Tipperary Racecourse were very proud to host this event and would like to thank everyone who took part in the colour run and raised the much-needed funds for these very worthy causes.

Great credit is due to Con and Theresa Marnane and the team at Bansha House Stables who worked tirelessly with the Circle of Friends Cancer Support Centre Committee and our team at the racecourse.

Without them, this event would not have been possible and their hard work and determination is greatly appreciated.”

Con Marnane, Bansha House Stables: “It was a pleasure working with everyone involved and we would like to extend a massive thank you to everyone who helped or contributed in any way for these very worthy causes. We are so grateful for your support.”

Jennifer Jones, Circle of Friends Cancer Support Centre: “We are amazed by the amount of money raised and the goodwill of all the people who supported the event by both donating money and donating their time to help. It was a pleasure to work with Con and Theresa Marnane and the team at Tipperary Racecourse. The money raised has given Circle of Friends a massive financial and morale boost which will go towards the building of the new cancer support centre in Tipperary Town which puts us on target to start the build in March 2017.”

Eileen Kearney, Community Fundraising Manager, Irish Cancer Society: “We are delighted to have worked with Con and Theresa Marnane on such a fantastic event.

The Tipperary Colour Run was an immensely enjoyable event which raised awareness of cancer and also important funds to help us provide free services to those affected by cancer. Thank you so much to all involved for supporting people on their cancer journey.”

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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 INTERNATIONAL RACING

© Image supplied by Au-Delà des Pistes / Copyright Jean-Charles Briens

THE FRENCH RETRAINING CHARITY AU-DELA DES PISTES ANNOUNCES AMBASSADORS Au-Delà des Pistes, the newly formed retraining of racehorses charity, created earlier this year under the initiative of Godolphin and the Aga Khan Studs, has announced three equine and five human ambassadors.

Their duties will include attending Au-Delà des Pistes organised events plus supporting the charity on a regular basis. Au-Delà des Pistes promotes the retraining and the welfare of thoroughbreds for the French racing industry.

THE EQUINE AMBASSADORS Au-Delà des Pistes has three equine ambassadors that are all retrained thoroughbreds.

Cadeau Du Roi has regularly established himself as one of the leading three day event horses in France under his international rider, Cedric Lyard.

Second in the French National Championships at Pompadour in 2014, this thoroughbred is a wonderful example of the versatility and adaptability of a retrained racehorse.

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Cirrus des Aigles is a welcome additional to this trio as following an outstanding race career during which “Fighting Cirrus” won 7 Group 1 races, this champion racehorse has now retired from the tracks to spend his time as a riding horse for Christophe Soumillon’s family. Paddock rest and ridden exercise are now the daily routine for this extraordinary racehorse and Cirrus Des Aigles has taken to his new life with ease.

Au-Delà Des Pistes is particularly pleased to announce Kasbah Bliss amongst their equine ambassadors. Following an international race career, where he notched up multiple group race wins on both the flat and the jumps, Kasbah Bliss has retrained successfully as a dressage horse. In his new career, Kasbah Bliss has already won several competitions under his faithful rider and retrainer Eugénie Danloux d’Harambure.

THE AMBASSADORS Astier Nicolas, the Olympic gold medalist in the eventing team competition and silver medallist in the individuals in this year’s Rio Olympics, this high achieving athlete has a deep seated interest

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS in the racing world having already participated in pony races as a child. Astier Nicolas is an important ambassador for Au Delà des Pistes as one of the main objectives for this charity is to create links between the equestrian and racing worlds.

Christophe Soumillon is an internationally renowned, multiple champion French jockey. In taking up the role of ambassador, alongside his equine companion, Cirrus Des Aigles, Christophe Soumillon shows the importance he places in equine welfare both during and after their race careers.

Kamel Boudra is one of the most popular presenters for the Equidia television channel. He is the host of Equestrian Le Mag and Profession Crack as well as the commentator of all the major equestrian events covered by the channel.

Furthermore he oversees many documentaries produced by Equidia about the biggest flat, jumps and trotting races. Kamel Boudra is a real horseman : a rider and breeder of sport horses, he is fascinated by all the equine disciplines and he recently obtained his owner’s racing colours. Au Delà Des Pistes is privileged to have the support of such a fervent horse lover and Kamel will undoubtedly bring our charity closer to one of the orgnaition’s key goals of promoting ex-racehorses to the equestrian world.

Nicolas Touzaint, Olympic eventing champion, European champion and the young horse World champion, Nicolas has accepted with great enthusiasm to become one of the ambassadors for this young charity. Nicolas is also fascinated by the racing world. An amateur jockey, breeder, owner and more recently a permit holder to train thoroughbreds, Nicolas shows a real passion for racehorses and he regularly retrains thoroughbreds for equestrian competitions.

Pierre-Henri N’Goumou is one of the stars of the French polo scene and he has won numerous competitions including the Open de Paris, the Open de France and the Coupe d’Argent at Deauville. He is the owner and manager of the Grassfields polo team and of the Haras du Houlley stud where he oversees several different activities notably the purchasing, training, reselling, hiring and riding of thoroughbreds.

Pierre-Henri is therefore a very important personality in the world of retraining racehorses.

© Image supplied by Hong Kong Jockey Club

HUGH BOWMAN HOLDS ON TO TAKE LONGINES INTERNATIONAL JOCKEYS’ CHAMPIONSHIP Australian ace Hugh Bowman made all the running to hold off his rivals and secure his first win in a dramatic LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship at Happy Valley, Hong Kong tonight (Wednesday). It was a case of third time lucky for the jockey after finishing out of luck in 2009 and 2015.

Bowman got his challenge off to the perfect start when taking the first leg on the John Size-trained Premiere to take the early lead on 12 points. Settled just off the pace in the perfect position, Premiere rattled home in the straight to win with a little in hand from Florent Geroux (6 points) aboard Secret Agent. Pat Smullen on the Richard Gibson-trained Powermax, who slightly missed the break at the start, did best of the rest, getting up for third and four points.

Ryan Moore got his name on the score sheet in the second leg when running out the easy winner aboard the Tony Millard-trained favorite Giant Turtle, from Douglas Whyte on Danny Shum’s Casa Master, while Joao Moreira picked up four points on Good Choice in third spot. Thus after two legs, the points were shared between six different jockeys - Hugh Bowman and Ryan

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING Moore with 12 points, Florent Geroux and Douglas Whyte with six points and Pat Smullen and Joao Moreira with four points apiece.

In a dramatic third leg, Bowman looked to be laying down a marker for the Championship when getting a dream run through in the straight on the David Ferraris-trained Kiram to take the lead, only to be nailed right on the wire by Mirco Demuro on the Peter Ho-trained Mutual Joy - the margin a short-head.

That left all to play for in the final leg, with Bowman out in front on 18 points, Ryan Moore on 14 points, Mirco Demuro on 12 points and Florent Geroux on eight points, all with a chance of securing the crown as the Championship went down to the wire.

In that final leg, happily for Hugh Bowman, none of his pursuers could reach the frame as Japan’s Keita Tosaki took the honours aboard the John Size-trained Big Bang Bong from Zac Purton’s Vara Pearl in second and Douglas Whyte’s Cheerful Boy in third, who crucially kept Ryan Moore out of the points by a nose.

So after the final leg of a thrilling evening’s racing, the points table read Hugh Bowman on 18 points, with Ryan Moore second on 14 points, and Mirco Demuro and Keita Tosaki tied for third on 12 points, and the unlucky loss Hugh Bowman endured in the third leg made no difference to the outcome.

Hugh Bowman’s initial reaction appeared to be relief rather than excitement at his victory: “I thought in the last either I had to beat Ryan or we both had to score no points, and he was on the even money favourite. In the run, I was supremely confident that my horse could run a place, but he didn’t let down, and I must admit on the line I thought Ryan had run third, so it was an anxious few moments, but we got the victory.”

“I came here quietly confident I could figure, because I had significantly enough rides to score enough points, but you need luck in running.”

Total attendance for the banner event at Happy Valley was 29,601, the highest in the event’s history since 1999. Turnover for the day eclipsed HK$1.238 billion, the second highest for an IJC meeting.

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MAURICE SIGNS OFF WITH BRILLIANT VICTORY IN THE HONG KONG CUP Maurice signed off his career with a sensational win in the Group 1 LONGINES Hong Kong Cup at Sha Tin. A dozen horses went to post for this 10 furlong contest, the final major international flat race of 2016.

At the break it was A Shin Hikari and Horse Of Fortune who were fast into their stride, while Maurice and Designs On Rome were slowly away.

Settling down, A Shink Hikari, in his final race led and went three lengths clear of Helene Superstar and Lovely Day down the back straight.

A Shin Hikari continued to pour it on with a clear advantage of 5 lengths over Helene Superstar.

Turning for home, A Shin Hikari was 7 lengths clear with Staphanos and Lovely Day trying to close.

The leader dramatically started to fold and Maurice came from miles back and weaved his way through, storming into the lead before the furlong pole.

Ryan Moore and the 5 year old drew clear for a brilliant and quite sensational sign off for this superstar’s career, winning by about 2 ½ lengths from Secret Weapon in second. Staphanos inched out Lovely Day for third place.

This was Moore at his ice cool best, unfazed by his mount’s tardy start.

The Noriyuki Hoti trained Maurice was winning his third Group 1 from as many starts in Sha Tin, adding this race to his Hong Kong Mile and Champions Mile victories.

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS

© Image supplied by Hong Kong Jockey Club

JAPANESE SUCCESS AS SATONO CROWN LANDS THE HONG KONG VASE Highland Reel was agonisingly denied a second successive win in the Group 1 LONGINES Hong Kong Vase as Satono Crown cut him down in the final furlong at Sha Tin. There was a strong European challenge for the first of the big races from the Hong Kong International meeting, over 1 ½ miles.

A field of 14 went to post, including last year’s winner and subsequent King George and Breeders’ Cup winner Highland Reel.

At the break it was Eastern Express who broke best and led early doors, but Highland Reel and Ryan Moore, racing cleat, were soon in front.

Passing the post with a circuit to race, Highland Reel held a clear lead from Eastern Express and Helene Happy Star, while there was plenty of scrimmaging to the inside.

Highland Reel led down the back, with Big Orange going up to join him with 5 furlongs to race, but Michael Bell’s runner was soon back pedalling.

With three furlongs to race Highland Rell came under pressure but found more turning for home, going three lengths clear of Eastern Express.

However, only Satono Crown emerged from the pack.

It became a two-horse race down the home straight, as the Japanese runner and Joao Moreira ate into Highland Reel’s lead and waning powers.

Satono Crown got there in plenty of time and landed the spoils by around ½ a length, with the French runner One Foot In Heaven coming home third, ahead of another Japanese runner Nuovo Record.

AEROVELOCITY REGAINS HONG KONG SPRINT CROWN Aerovelocity defied age to land his second Group 1 LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint as he caught and passed another old favourite Peniaphobia at Sha Tin. With Pure Sensation a non-runner, a field of 13 speedsters lined-up for this fast and furious six furlong contest.

At the break it was Peniaphobia and Aerovelocity who went on from Super Jockey and Not LIstenin’tome.

Settling down, Silvestre de Sousa and Peniaphobia blazed the trail from Super Jockey and Rebel Dane, and that was the order turning into the straight.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING

© Image supplied by Hong Kong Jockey Club

Super Jockey faded but Peniaphobia kept up the gallop, with Aerovelocity coming through to challenge and take it up with a furlong to race.

Meanwhile, Lucky Bubbles came with a tremendous surge down the wide outside and chopped down the leaders hand over fist.

However, the line came in time for Zac Purton and the 8 year old Aerovelocity, who just got there ahead of Lucky Bubbles, with Peniaphobia a gallant third and then Amazing Kids, as Hong Kong-based horses filled the places.

This was a second victory in the Hong Kong Sprint for Aerovelocity.

BEAUTY ONLY DEFIES WIDE DRAW IN THE HONG KONG MILE Beauty Only came with a beautifully timed run to land the Group 1 LONGINES Hong Kong Mile at Sha Tin. A field of 14 went to post for this contest.

As the gates burst open it was Beauty Flame from a wide berth who broke fastest ad cut out the early pace from Neorealism and Logotype, with Contentment settled in fourth, ahead of Packing Pins.

Up front, Beauty Flame continued to bowl along and took the field into the home straight from Neorealism, with Contentment trying to close.

© Image supplied by Hong Kong Jockey Club

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However, the complexion of the race changed dramatically with 1 ½ furlongs to race as the leaders were swamped by a wall of horses.

As contentment joined the leaders, Joyful Trinity came with a powerful run and out wider Beauty Only and Zac Purton also began to charge, while further back, Able Friend was closing.

Joyful Trinity inched into the lead but was immediately passed to his outer by Beauty Only and Helene Paragon and it was Beauty Only, from an unfavourable draw 13, who got the prize.

Helene Paragon lost little in second, with Joyful Trinity winning a blanket finish for third ahead of Contentment and Logotype, with Able Friend right on their heels.

Beauty Only was giving Purton a big race double on the day.

RYAN MOORE CROWNED BEST JOCKEY IN THE WORLD IN HONG KONG Ryan Moore has been officially recognised for the second time in three years as the best jockey in the world.

He is a star in his native Britain but also in Japan, Hong Kong, Ireland, America, Australia and other racing countries too.

Tomorrow (Sunday, December 11) he partners three favourites and a third favourite in the four LONGINES Hong Kong International Races on turf at Sha Tin. Three of them are trained in Japan - Big Arthur (LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint), Neorealism (LONGINES Hong Kong Mile) and Maurice (LONGINES Hong Kong Cup) - while Highland Reel, trained by Aidan O’Brien in Ireland, races for his Coolmore retainer in the LONGINES Hong Kong Vase.

Moore has a Japanese agent and translator, which has helped to smooth the process and enabled him to achieve great results in Japan.

On Friday night, he was presented with the LONGINES World’s Best Jockey Award and has now won the trophy in two of the three years it has existed. He was the inaugural winner in 2014 after

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS gaining five of the top 100 Group or Grade One winners around the world, had to give way to Frankie Dettori in 2015 but still finished joint second that year and took the glory with eight victories in the top 100 G1s in 2016.

Moore is not the easiest person for the media to interview. He acknowledged this in a round of seven interviews after his success on Friday during the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races Gala Dinner.

“I am not good with talking, I would rather be riding!”

But he did reveal some information.

He said: “Every race is important and we try to do as well as we can as often as we can. I have been very lucky - I have got to ride some great horses this year and I ride for a fantastic operation (Coolmore). Obviously, the Arc (Found) is always

special and the King George (Highland Reel) is an important race to me.

“There have been many good days. I got to start with my father, rode for Richard Hannon at a young age and I learnt an awful lot with Sir Michael (Stoute) - it is lovely I still ride for him.

“Now working with Aidan (O’Brien) more and the Coolmore team - it is the most professional outfit that you are going to find - I am in a very good place.”

His advice to fledgling jockeys is: “Stay grounded, concentrate on being the best you can and picking up as much advice from people and listening. Just feel your way and be a good person.

“Racing is a very tough sport and getting yourself motivated when the horses aren’t so good is tough.

“Keeping your weight in check and keeping yourself in good shape and everything else that goes with the sport is hard for a lot of people.

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NEWS INTERNATIONAL RACING “My advice is to work hard and respect the people you are working with and respect the horses - all you can do is try your best and keep going.”

He acknowledged: “I am very lucky to ride a lot of good horses and it is about those horses really. I am in a very privileged position and thankful for that.

“I get to ride at the highest level and there is always plenty to look forward to on the big days. I enjoy them, I enjoy riding the best horses and I am in the fortunate position where they are there to me.

“It is great winning this award again. Obviously, I have to thank Longines, the Hong Kong Jockey Club and the IFHA.” “Every race, I just see how it pans out - you have to make decisions quickly - do what you feel is right.”

What have horses taught him?

“Patience - you need patience with horses.”

In the film, which introduced his award, numerous jockeys such as Frankie Dettori, Hugh Bowman, Christophe Soumillon, Christophe Lemaire, Joao Moreira, Yutaka Take, Mike Smith and Keita Tosaki paid tribute to Moore.

“It was very kind - I wasn’t expecting that. It was nice, a bit overwhelming.

“My favourite course is Newmarket, because it is close to home! You always think about races and tracks, everything comes into play. There are many factors, there are just so many angles.

“You have to ride the horse first and I think riding good horses is the biggest factor in my success.

“I am really looking forward to Sunday - I have some nice rides and it is always a big week and a nice way to finish the year.

“Highland Reel and Maurice (both successful last year in LONGINES Hong Kong International Races) seem in good shape so hopefully they will run well. I don’t have any expectations - it is a horse race and we will work it out as we go.

“Highland Reel is very well trained and is obviously a horse with a great constitution, handles travel and handles racing.

“Maurice is a high-class horse. He has shown for nearly two years now that he is a very good horse and I think it will probably be his last start on Sunday so I look forward to riding him.”

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© Breeders’ Cup Ltd

DAUGHTER CONFIRMS THE SAD PASSING OF GARRETT GOMEZ Two-time Eclipse Award winning jockey Garrett Gomez has died, according to his daughter Shelby Gomez. He was 44.

Shelby Gomez declined to give further details on the death of her father.

Garrett Gomez rode no fewer than 13 Breeders’ Cup winners and is perhaps best remembered for his ride on Blame, who sensationally beat Zenyatta in the 2010 Breeders’ Cup Classic. He also rode Beholder to success in the 2012 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies.

He officially retired from riding in 2015, but rode his last race in 2013. He began riding races in 1988 and won 265 races in 2007. He was honoured with the Eclipse Award for outstanding jockey that year and repeated the feat in 2008. He was also awarded the 2011 George Woolf Memorial Award by his peers.

“He was a great person. That’s all I have to say,” said Tony Matos, who served as Gomez’s agent late in the jockey’s career. “I’m just so sad. He was such a good person.”

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INTERNATIONAL RACING NEWS

NEW ZEALAND-BASED JOCKEY REBECCA BLACK PASSES AWAY AFTER FALL

POSTPONED SET TO TREAD FAMILIAR PATH TO THE DUBAI SHEEMA CLASSIC

New Zealand-based jockey Rebecca Black has died after suffering a fall at Gore racecourse on Sunday.

The 40-year-old mother-of-three was riding Point Proven when both her mount and Misscattlecreek came to grief 700 metres from the finish.

Misscattlecreek’s jockey Terry Moseley reportedly escaped without serious injury.

Black’s former husband Kelvin Tyler confirmed two of Black’s three children saw the accident unfold.

“They’re obviously pretty shocked and devastated,” he told the New Zealand Herald.

Police confirmed a jockey’s death shortly after 4pm and the remainder of the The Tapanui Racing Club meeting was abandoned.

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing chief executive Greg Purcell said: “ All our thoughts are with Rebecca’s family and friends at this dreadful time.”

Plans are in place to give Postponed the same prep run ahead of his repeat bid for glory in the Dubai Sheema Classic on World Cup night.

Trainer Roger Varian will again aim the fiveyear-old at the Dubai City Of Gold, before tackling the mile-and-a-half prize on March 25.

After registering victories in both the Coronation Cup and Juddmonte International on his return to Europe, the son of Dubawi had to settle for fifth on his final start in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in October.

Varian said: “The plan is to run him in the City Of Gold three weeks ahead of the Sheema Classic.

“He is in good cantering work at the moment and his fast work will start towards the end of January.”

© Steven Cargill

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW © www.healyracing.ie

C

hurchill showed a portent for what was to follow, when losing his maiden tag in the Listed Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot. By season’s end, Aidan O’Brien’s son of Galileo was Champion Two Year Old Colt in Europe, having won five straight, including the Group 1 National Stakes and the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket, both decisively.

This imposing colt is out of Meow, a Coolmore filly who only ever ran at two and never any further than five furlongs, finishing second in the Queen Mary Stakes and landing a Listed Curragh contest for David Wachman.

Churchill started off in a Curragh maiden over six furlongs on Irish Guineas weekend in late May, running 2 ½ lengths third of 11 to Van Der Decken, a colt who subsequently moved to the UK and failed to shine.

However, much as Gleneagles had been beaten on his debut, Churchill was to come on markedly for that career opener and was not beaten by another horse on the track during 2016.

His Chesham Stakes victory was far from spectacular as

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he beat Isomer by ½ a length, but in a manner promising a whole lot more. It was a trait that would become his trademark throughout the rest of the year, as he put up a string of performances that were far from spectacular, but always hinted at a lot more to come if needed.

A month after his Royal Ascot success, Churchill followed in Gleneagles footsteps by narrowly winning the Group 3 Tyros Stakes at Leopardstown, beating the useful Alexios Komnenos by a neck. His races were nicely spread out and in August, Churchill again appeared workmanlike but showed plenty of pace and power when asked for his effort, to beat Radio Silence by 2 lengths in the Group 2 Futurity Stakes at the Curragh.

He returned there three weeks later and was much more authoritative on yielding ground, capturing Ireland’s premier two year old race for colts, the Group 1 National Stakes, by 4 ¼ lengths from the admirable and tough Mehmas. On reflection, it is easy to feel that Mehmas did not quite see out the trip, but Lockheed was a useful form guide and Lancaster Bomber would also go on to underline the merits of this form.

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW

Churchill was now successful in his last four starts, having won the same three races Gleneagles had won on his last three starts.

Their pathways separated at this point however, as O’Brien sent Churchill to Newmarket for the Group 1 Dubai Dewhurst Stakes in October, whereas Gleneagles had finished first past the post and been disqualified in France.

On paper, it was hard beforehand to assess the merits of Churchill’s Dewhurst Stakes rivals beforehand.

Lancaster Bomber had finished well behind his stable mate in the National Stakes, while Blue Point, so impressive in the six furlong Gimcrack Stakes, had been turned over by The Last Lion in the Middle Park Stakes two weeks earlier, and had not yet tackled seven furlongs.

South Seas appeared to have solid credentials; unbeaten in three starts, he had convincingly beaten Salouen in the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown Park, with the runner-up running an excellent second to First Defense in the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere subsequently.

Seven Heavens was unbeaten in two starts, but a lot of hype had built up around the John Gosden trained son of Frankel.

His successes had come in an Ascot maiden and a two-horses affair at Goodwood, in which he had raced erratically and pulled furiously before outclassing his one rival.

Rivet had impressed in a York maiden on his second start, before beating Thunder Snow by a head in the Group 2 Champagne Stakes. Thunder Snow had won on debut but was well beaten by Caravaggio in the Coventry Stakes, before running 1 ¾ lengths second of War Decree in the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood.

So the field of seven set off with Lancaster Bomber taking the field along before being passed in the final quarter of a mile. At this point, Churchill was stuck behind a wall of horses, with Blue Point seemingly travelling well to the outside, while Seven Heavens had yet to be asked for his effort, but would find very little, finishing last.

Rivet and South Seas were soon ridden along and Ryan Moore eased Churchill out and the big colt was good enough to take off once given daylight. Blue Point temporarily went with Churchill but rather like Mehmas at the Curragh, his challenge petered out in the final furlong. With nothing else picking up in behind, Lancaster Bomber rallied best of all to finish 1 ¼ lengths second to Churchill, having improved by nearly 8 lengths on their previous meeting.

Again, rather than pulling miles clear, Churchill did enough and sauntered home relatively unchallenged, with no more than 4 ½ lengths covered the rest of the field and in the immediate aftermath there appeared a slight question mark against the strength of this Dewhurst Stakes.

However, subsequent performances from the vanquished seemed to suggest the contrary and that this was rock solid form.

A couple of weeks after the Dewhurst, Rivet won the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster with an authoritative performance from the front.

A day later Thunder Snow and South Seas finished first and second in the Group 1 Criterium International at Saint-Cloud.

Lancaster Bomber then ran a screamer in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf, with his jockey suggesting that he would have won (rather than finishing second) but for a tardy start.

What is not in doubt though is that Churchill is a large, scopey horse, who even at Royal Ascot, gave the impression he would make up into a lovely three year old and he certainly seemed to improve as the year wore on. That he was fast enough to excel at two in such a fashion, is a testament to his constitution and natural speed, as he did not give the impression he was too precocious.

The son of Galileo looks sure to start off in the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas next May although we feel perhaps 1 ¼ miles might be as far as he wants to race. We do not see him as an obvious Derby candidate, particularly given his dam was only ever raced over five furlongs and showed plenty of speed herself.

At present, obvious 2,000 Guineas opposition seems thin on the ground, at least from the traditional big two year old races, and it may be that any serious rivalry might come from a lightly-raced juvenile who emerges in the spring.

From what we have seen, Churchill appears likely to train on with no problems and whilst we do not see him as one of the great two year olds in history, his performances and the way the form worked out, put him a couple of lengths clear in 2016, with the prospect of more improvement to come next year.

Undoubtedly the way was paved clear for Churchill to shine, once his stable mate Caravaggio had sustained a rib injury, which ultimately ended his season prematurely.

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© www.healyracing.ie

The son of Scat Daddy is unbeaten in four starts and was one of O’Brien’s first two year olds to see the track in 2016.

Despite running green, he made a bold impression on debut when beating Lundy by 1 ¾ lengths in a Dundalk maiden in April, over five furlongs.

A month later he was impressive in the Listed Marble Hill Stakes, his first start on turf, at the Curragh, as he powered to a 2 ¼ lengths defeat of Mister Trader.

He then faced arguably the toughest task of his campaign, as he ran in a soft ground, Group 2 Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Caravaggio was trying six furlongs for the first time and overcame adversity in tremendous style to record a hugely impressive victory against a field that included: Mehmas, Psychedelic Funk, Van Der Decken, Medieval, Thunder Snow, Yalta and Mokarris.

The action developed to the far side, as Mehmas took control, while racing out wider, Caravaggio had neither cover or competition to tow him along, but kept on in a straight line and powered clear to win by 2 ¼ lengths.

Mehmas went on to win the Group 2 July Stakes and Richmond Stakes (beating Blue Point on the latter occasion), to give the form a solid look.

Predictably, Caravaggio became the talking horse among the two year old colts at this stage of the season and was waited with for the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh in early August.

On the day though, he faced arguably Group 3 class opposition, scaring off all but four rivals, of which only Medicine Jack, winner of the Group 2 Railway Stakes, appeared to have any serious chance of pulling off a shock.

As it was – and far from the first time during the year, Aidan O’Brien saddled the first two home in a Group 1 race, as the maiden Courage Under Fire, gave vain pursuit to the facile winner Caravaggio, who eased to a 4 length success.

It appeared Caravaggio would take part in a fascinating clash with Mehmas and Blue Point in the Middle Park Stakes,

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but injury later in August saw him put away for the winter.

Caravaggio was undoubtedly the juvenile star up to the point that he sustained his minor injury and with time running out to get him fit again, O’Brien and Coolmore decided patience would prove the better long term option.

There must be huge doubts as to whether Caravaggio will stay a mile, although the manner of his two six furlong victories suggested that seven furlongs would be within his compass in 2016. Sadly we never got to find this out.

There would at this point seem little sense in speculating as to whether Caravaggio will head to the Guineas next year – indeed Ballydoyle plans are rarely clear until the second half of April, with so many possible options to choose from.

It would however be no surprise to see Caravaggio stick to sprinting, with the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup back at Royal Ascot, an obvious first half target.

War Decree was the third member of the triumvirate of O’Brien juveniles to make their mark in the height of summer.

This attractive son of War Front made a winning debut when landing a Leopardstown maiden in early June by 1 ½ lengths from Orderofthegarter, a promising stable mate and son of Galileo, who was not seen out again.

Just over a month later, War Decree took a big step up in class as he travelled to Newmarket’s July Course for the Group 2 Superlative Stakes over seven furlongs.

One of four unbeaten colts in the race, War Decree commanded plenty of respect, although much of the interest surrounded the headstrong Frankel colt Cunco, who had won on debut before finishing 1 ½ lengths third to Churchill in the Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot.

In the event, War Decree and Boynton went clear of their rivals in the manner of two very smart colts, with the Godolphin charge gaining the day by ¾ of a length, with the pair 5 lengths clear of the useful Scaramanga, White Tower, Cunco and Bin Batutta.

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW Towards the end of July, War Decree and Boynton met again in the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.

This time, with the latter carrying a 3 pound penalty, the places were reversed, as War Decree ran out an impressive 1 ¾ lengths winner from Thunder Snow, with Boynton back in third and horses such as Repton, Isomer and Medieval further back.

Sadly we did not get to see War Decree again, but he appears to have strong form lines with Churchill, through his defeats of Cunco and Thunder Snow. He should also stay a mile with no problem, but perhaps would favour top of the ground next spring.

Of course the Aidan O’Brien team has talent in real depth and Capri was another horse to make his mark during 2016.

This grey son of Galileo ran with promise on debut when finishing ½ a length second of 13 to Arcada in a Curragh

© www.healyracing.ie

maiden in mid-July.

A fortnight later he made a pleasing impression when landing a Galway Festival maiden by 2 ½ lengths from Rekindling.

He was back out again just six days later – and took the step up to Listed class in his stride at Tipperary, beating Boyfriend Brian by 2 lengths.

At this point Capri was starting to look like one of the leading contemporaries for Aidan O’Brien’s stable.

That impression was confirmed when he lined-up for the Group 2 Beresford Stakes at the Curragh in late September.

However, in heavy ground, Capri was made to work hard to overhaul stable mates Yucatan and Exemplar, getting up to beat the former by ¾ of a length.

Capri’s workmanlike display was in all likelihood largely down to the ground but what could not be faulted was his attitude and willingness and he seems to take his racing well.

Yucatan did not run badly in the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy on his next start.

Capri however was a little disappointing at Saint-Cloud in the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud over 1 ¼ miles, encountering soft ground and appearing to have his speed blunted. He plugged on gamely to finish 1 ½ lengths third of 13 behind Waldgeist.

Capri holds entries in both the English and Irish Guineas next spring, but it would be no surprise to see him bypass those contests in favour of a Derby trial.

Lancaster Bomber shaped as if in need of his debut run, when finishing 5 ¾ lengths 6th of 13 to Arcada in a Curragh maiden in mid-July.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of War Front made no mistake on his next start, beating True Valour by a short head in a Leopardstown maiden in early August. He then ran 5 ½ lengths last of 4 behind Churchill in the Group 2 Futurity Stakes at the Curragh in late August. He again yielded to his stable mate when 9 lengths fifth of 7 to Churchill in the Group 1 National Stakes.

Those runs suggested he was likely to struggle in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket in October, but in the event, he cut out much of the running before getting outpaced and then staying on well at the end to finish 1 ¼ lengths second to Churchill.

He then headed over to Santa Anita for the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf, missing the break but staying on well to finish 1 ¼ lengths second of 14 to Oscar Performance.

His last two starts showed Lancaster Bomber in a different light and suggested that there is a good bit more to come from him and the Guineas Mile looks well within his remit.

Yucatan was slow to get going and shaped as if a little backward on his racecourse debut, but subsequent efforts suggested he had only a little improvement to make to be up there with the top rank of juveniles.

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© www.healyracing.ie

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo is out of that exceptional race mare Six Perfections, but was a well beaten seventh on debut behind stable mate Utah, in a Curragh maiden in early August.

Three weeks later he looked to have learned plenty when defeating another stable mate in Taj Mahal by a head at the same course.

O’Brien stepped Yucatan notably up in class in late September as he contested the Group 2 Beresford Stakes at the Curragh on heavy ground.

Only six horses went to post with O’Brien’s Capri heavily favoured to beat a field including three stable mates. The result shows that Capri did win, although he was made to work for it, with Yucatan staying on late to finish ¾ of a length second, with the same distance back to Exemplar in third.

That was an encouraging performance and in late October reports started to emerge that Yucatan was improving at a rapid rate and he was favoured over Capri to represent O’Brien in the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster.

As Rivet quickened from the front, Yucatan became momentarily tapped for toe before staying on nicely in the final furlong and eventually finishing 1 ¾ lengths second of 10 to the William Haggas colt.

Yucatan has shaped as if there is still plenty of improvement to come and he looks most likely to want further than a mile next year, so it would be no surprise to see him in a Derby trial.

Exemplar had run well on debut when finishing ¾ of a length second of 13 to Landfall in a Curragh maiden in August. The winner went on to win a Group 3 contest at Leopardstown and looks a smart prospect, so it was no real surprise to see Exemplar follow-up on his next start.

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The son of Galileo won by an easy 5 lengths from Itsalonglongroad at Galway in early September and then took a sharp step up in class, contesting the Group 2 Beresford Stakes where he ran a most encouraging race in heavy ground to finish 1 ½ lengths third to Capri. He looks a horse for next year and it would be no surprise to see him contesting Derby trials in the spring.

There were plenty of other Aidan O’Brien juveniles who showed ability or potential during 2016. Some of the following horses may well make their names next season and some will already be familiar to readers.

Intelligence Cross made a hugely promising debut and capitalised on that experience next time out.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of War Front ran a head second of 12 to Grand Coalition in a Curragh maiden in early June. He returned there for a similar contest over Irish Derby weekend, beating Khukri by 1 ½ lengths and looking a smart prospect.

He confirmed that impression with a fine run in the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket, finishing ½ a length second of 9 to Mehmas, with a performance that arguably saw him at his peak, on summer ground.

Towards the end of July he again bumped into that smart colt, finishing 3 ¼ lengths third of 4 in the Group 2 Richmond Stakes.

A month he ran out a hugely impressive winner of the Group 3 Round Tower Stakes at the Curragh, beating Holy Cat by 4 ¼ lengths and he appeared to have improved.

However, his season ended with disappointments and the following month he failed to make a big impact in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket, coming home 3 ½ lengths fourth of 10 to The Last Lion.

In later October O’Brien sent him to America for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf over a mile. However, he failed to ever get in a blow and finished 7 ¼ lengths 9th of 14 and well behind stable mate Lancaster Bomber.

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW It may be that Intelligence Cross has peaked although he could still make up into a Group horse next year over six or seven furlongs.

Peace Envoy looked a smart colt when he beat King Electric by 1 ¼ lengths on his racecourse debut at Dundalk in April.

However the Aidan O’Brien trained son of Power was turned over by that same rival, when ½ a length second of 4 at the Curragh in early May. He got back to winning ways when beating Lundy by ½ a length in a Listed race at Naas over six furlongs, towards the end of that month and then ran well in the Group 2 Norfolk Stakes, finishing 1 ¼ lengths fourth of 11 to Prince Of Lir at Royal Ascot in June.

Just nine days later was perhaps slightly feeling the effects of that run when ½ a length second of 8 to Medicine Jack in the Group 2 Railway Stakes at the Curragh.

In mid-July he bounced back to form – and looked improved, as he landed the Group 3 Anglesey Stakes at the same track by 1 ¾ lengths from Psychedelic Funk.

That booked his place in the Group 1 Prix Morny at Deauville in August, where he got badly outpaced early on, before staying on strongly to finish a length third of 5 to Lady Aurelia. He shaped that day as though seven furlongs would suit him well.

He had just one more start in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket in late September over six furlongs and put up by far the worst performance of his season, trailing in 5 ¾ lengths 8th of 10 to The Last Lion.

There may have been legitimate excuses on that day, including not handling the track, being over the top and perhaps also finding the trip no longer suitable.

It would be no surprise to see him bounce back next year in races like the French 2,000 Guineas and Jersey Stakes.

The Anvil has shown promise and ability but perhaps needs a little more time to show his best and is surely one of the best maidens around.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo ran 2 ¼ lengths second of 11 to stable mate Utah in a Curragh maiden in early August.

A month later he travelled to Doncaster for another maiden and travelled well before fading late on and coming home ½ a length third of 8 to Glencadam Glory.

He returned to the UK for the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket in late September and put up a terrific performance, staying on in eye catching fashion to run ¼ of a length second of 8 to Best Of Days. Off the back of that fine run he was expected to progress again in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket in early October, but was a little one-paced when finishing 4 lengths third of 10 to Best Solution.

He was highly tried again in the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster in late October and ran his worst race of the campaign, coming home 13 ½ lengths last of 10 behind Rivet. That was almost certainly not his running and his previous efforts suggest that stamina will be his forte going into next year.

Whitecliffsofdover showed plenty of promise on debut when finishing 2 ½ lengths fourth of 14 to stable mate Intelligence Cross in a Curragh maiden in late June.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of War Front was impressive in his subsequent start, landing a Naas maiden by 3 lengths from Lightening Fast at the start of August.

He then travelled to Newmarket for the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes in late September, running a solid race to finish ¾ of a length second of 8 to Larchmont Lad. Just ten days later he was out for duty in the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Chantilly, a race O’Brien traditionally aims one of his best colts at. In the event Whitecliffsofdover ran a solid race without looking at star, finishing 4 ¾ lengths third of 7 to National Defense.

At this stage Whitecliffsofdover does not look a front runner in the Ballydoyle pack, but he does shape as though capable of improvement at three.

Douglas MacArthur had a big reputation before he ever saw a racecourse, but was disappointing on debut when 5 lengths last of 6 behind Currency Converter in a Leopardstown maiden in early June.

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The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo returned there in late July to beat World War by 5 lengths. However, he was a shade disappointing in a Group 3 contest at the same course over Irish Champions Weekend, finishing 2 ½ lengths third of 5 to Landfall.

Later in September he again failed to fire, although not seeming to get too much cover, when finishing 2 ¼ lengths fifth of 8 to Best Of Days in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes.

Arguably his best run came as he stepped up in trip for the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud over 10 furlongs, on soft ground in late October. He came home 1 ¾ lengths fourth of 13 to Waldgeist.

At this stage it would seem Douglas Macarthur’s forte will be over longer trips as he seems to lack a little brilliance.

Utah was well held by his stable mate Douglas MacArthur, when finishing 9 ½ lengths 6th of 8 in a Leopardstown maiden in late July.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo looked much more forward on the occasion of his next start, beating another stable mate, The Anvil, by 2 ¼ lengths in a Curragh maiden in early August. Later that month he contested a Tipperary nursery and ran 4 ¼ lengths second of 4 to Sir Dreamalot.

His final start of the year came in the Group 1 Prix JeanLuc Lagardere at Chantilly on Arc Day, but he faded in the home straight to finish last of 7 behind First Defense.

Finn McCool was much-heralded before his eventful debut at Leopardstown in early August. The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo was very, very green, jumping a road twice and racing in snatches, having conceded many lengths, eventually finishing 9 ¾ lengths third of 5 behind Brutal.

He was still very novicey when thrown into the deep end in the Group 1 National Stakes at the Curragh in early September, running 18 lengths last of 7 to Churchill.

A fortnight later he ran a lot better and was short of room

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when finishing 1 ¾ lengths second of 8 to Vociferous Marina in a Curragh maiden. That run had seemed unlucky, but all the time he was gaining an education. He put that to good use at Navan in early October when narrowly landing a maiden by ½ a length from Harbour Beacon.

That earned him another crack at Group 1 company in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster in late October. He acquitted himself well before fading to finish 6 ½ lengths 7th of 10 behind Rivet.

Undoubtedly Finn McCool has shown plenty of ability at home and he has improved on the track, but will need giant steps forward if he is to challenge for Group 1 honours.

Latin Beat showed plenty of potential when landing a Tipperary maiden on debut in late August, beating Son Of Rest by ¾ of a length.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo was stepped up for the Group 2 Beresford Stakes at the Curragh in late September, but faded in the heavy ground to finish 22 lengths fifth of 6 to Capri.

For one so inexperienced and on that surface, Latin Beat is certainly worth another chance and he could well be seen to best effect over 10 furlongs in 2017. It would be no surprise to see him line-up in a Derby trial as O’Brien sorts out his hierarchy.

Pedestal is something of a forgotten horse but was one of the early season Ballydoyle representatives.

The son of Invincible Spirit ran fifth behind Van Der Decken in a good Curragh maiden in late May and just four days later got off the mark when dropping to five furlongs in a Tipperary maiden, beating Mayleaf Shine by 1 ¾ lengths.

He then headed to Royal Ascot and ran a super race in the Listed Windsor Castle Stakes, finishing 3 ¼ lengths third of 22 to the smart Ardad.

Pedestal was not seen out again in 2016 and assuming all is well, he could make up into a useful three year old sprinter, with the Commonwealth Cup an obvious target.

Sir John Lavery looked a very exciting horse on his second and final start of the year and has plenty of Classic entries for 2017.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo shaped well to finish 2 ½ lengths third of 14 to Grandee on his debut in a Curragh maiden in October.

Eight days later he slammed Haripour by 7 lengths in a Gowran Park maiden run on almost heavy ground.

He looks like he will stay well and with normal progression, could develop into a Derby contender.

Cliffs Of Moher was another O’Brien runner to catch the eye, appearing to come on a bundle for his debut.

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The son of Galileo ran 9 ½ lengths fifth of 14 to Spanish Tenor in a Cork maiden in mid-October. A couple of weeks later he was most impressive as he beat stable mate Orderofthegarter by 5 ½ lengths at Leopardstown.

He holds entries in the Irish Guineas and Derby as well as the Epsom Classic and it would be no surprise to see him return to Leopardstown for a Classic trial in the spring.

Orderofthegarter had just the two starts in 2016, with a lengthy absence between starts suggesting that he had an interrupted campaign.

The son of Galileo ran with real promise against one of the Ballydoyle big guns, when finishing 1 ½ lengths second of 7 to War Decree at Leoparstown in early June. He was not seen out again until late October, when running 5 ½ lengths second of 17 to Cliffs Of Moher.

He ought to be open to plenty of improvement and the fact that he was running over seven furlongs in June, hints that he might be at his most effective over longer trips in time.

Spirit Of Valor was late getting started on the racecourse, but crammed plenty of experience into three starts in October, during which time he demonstrated plenty of ability.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of War Front finished 1 ½ lengths third of 16 to Holistic Approach on his debut in a Curragh maiden in early October.

A week later he got off the mark at Naas with a ¾ of a length defeat of Imagine If (a subsequent winner).

His third run in as many weeks saw Spirit Of Valor step up in class for the Group 3 Killavullen Stakes at Leopardstown, where he ran well to finish a length second of 7 to the smart Making Light.

There ought to be plenty of improvement to come from Spirit Of Valor who will surely appreciate a faster surface in 2017.

War Secretary had just the two starts in 2016 and those performances came at different ends of the season.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of War Front finished a well beaten seventh of 11 to Van Der Decken in a Curragh maiden in late May and was not seen out again for over five months.

He returned to action in a Dundalk maiden in late October, beating Homesman by 3 ¼ lengths. War Secretary clearly retained plenty of ability despite his absence from the track and holds dual Derby entries.

Homesman, a son of War Front, was having his only start of the year there and looks a lovely prospect going into 2017 after such an encouraging start to his career.

O’Brien also saddled another debutant in that contest, with Iron Mountain, a son of Galileo, shaping with promise to finish 4 ½ lengths fourth of 12. He too should progress in the spring from maidens.

Diodorus is a magnificently bred son of Galileo, out of the brilliant race filly Divine Proportions and would be one of the better raced Ballydoyle maidens.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS He ran a length third of 6 to Eagle Spirit on debut at Leopardstown in late June, and returned there in August to run 2 ¼ lengths second of 5 to Brutal.

His one unplaced effort followed in a Curragh maiden in early October, when he was 5 ¼ lengths 6th of 14 to Grandee.

Diodorus had one more start and appeared to improve when finishing ½ a length second of 11 to Dubai Sand in a Listed contest at Leopardstown in late October.

Venezuela showed plenty of promise on his only start but was not seen out after June.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Galileo finished ½ a length second of 6 to the useful Eagle Spirit in a Leopardstown maiden over a mile in late June. He has clearly had his issues.

The beautifully bred Venice Beach made a fine debut on his only start of the year.

The son of Galileo finished ½ a length second of 15 to the impressive Titus in a Leopardstown maiden in late October and ought to have lots of improvement to come over middle distances next year.

Ensign had just the two starts and remains a maiden, although he showed ability on both runs.

The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Invincible Spirit is out of a Sadler’s Wells mare and ran 4 lengths fifth of 13 to Landfall in a good Curragh maiden in August.

The following month he headed to Listowel for another maiden and ran 3 lengths third of 6 behind Escape Clause.

There should be plenty of improvement to come from Ensign and he could make up into a nice middle distance performer.

Belgravia is another Aidan O’Brien inmate who failed to make his mark in 2016 having just the one start and finishing 7th of 15 behind Titus at Leopardstown in late October. The son of Galileo will have learned plenty from that race and should progress nicely next spring.

Auckland is a fascinating horse, a son of Galileo out of the brilliantly fast Airwave.

He shaped with real promise in a Gowran Park maiden in October, finishing 8 ¾ lengths third of 9 to his more experienced stable mate Sir John Lavery.

Auckland is entered up in the English and Irish equivalents of the 2,000 Guineas and Derby and could develop into a smart prospect.

North Carolina holds a Derby entry at Epsom Downs and shaped with promise when 8 ¾ lengths fourth of 11 to stable mate Whitecliffsofdover in a Naas maiden at the start of August.

We did not see the son of Galileo again, but being out of a Grand Lodge dam, middle distances should suit him in 2017.

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Inca Gold was another to have just the one start – and made a very favourable impression too.

The son of Galileo finished 3 lengths second of 14 to the smart Alexios Komnenos in a Curragh maiden in late June.

The winner franked that form and gave Churchill as much to think about as any horse post Royal Ascot, suggesting that Inca Gold could be very useful.

Of course the 2017 two year old scene was dominated by Aidan O’Brien, but not exclusively.

Mehmas certainly made his mark on the year with a series of fine performances at Group 2 level.

The Richard Hannon trained son of Acclamation looked a useful recruit when winning a Chester maiden on debut, but looked a potential star on his next start.

He landed his maiden by ¾ of a length from Madam Dancealot in early May; form which the filly would boosts later in the year, but took a big step forward when stepping up to 6 furlongs at Newbury in mid-May, beating Global Applause by 3 ¾ lengths in a valuable conditions race.

That form was overturned later that month as the pair dropped down to five furlongs for the Listed National Stakes at Sandown Park, with Global Applause beating Mehmas by 1 ¼ lengths.

Stepping back up to six furlongs Mehmas met a smart horse in the Group 2 Coventry Stakes, finishing 2 ¼ lengths second of 18 to Caravaggio.

Throughout the spring Mehmas continue to put up solid efforts and he again confirmed that impression when landing the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket by ½ a length from Intelligence Cross.

Before that month was out, Mehmas had added further lustre to his campaign when out-battling the highly-rated Blue Point to win the Group 2 Richmond Stakes at Goodwood by a neck in late July. This performance underlined the credentials which potential breeders will look for now that Mehmas has

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW gone to stud, as he had to show tremendous tenacity to fight off his less experienced rival.

After a short break Mehmas stepped up to seven furlongs for the Group 1 National Stakes at the Curragh in early September, running well but appearing to not quite get home as he finished 4 ¼ lengths second of 7 to Churchill.

After that run it was confirmed that Mehmas would retire at the end of the season, a bitterly disappointing decision and one which worryingly appears to be gathering momentum with successful two year olds.

Mehmas had just the one more start, finishing 3 lengths third of 10 behind The Last Lion in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket.

There is every reason to believe that Mehmas would have gone on to achieve a lot more in 2017, whether he stayed a mile or not. His form was perhaps the most reliable in Group 1 and Group 2 contests all year long.

The Last Lion, who defeated Mehmas in that Middle Park Stakes, was another to annoyingly retire to stud. We actively discourage this practice, thoroughbred horses are bred to race and it seems rather unsporting and unadventurous to pack them off to stud at such an early age, when there is so much more to accomplish.

This Mark Johnston trained son of Choisir was another to prove as tough as teak, he thrived on his racing and got better as the year progressed.

The Last Lion looked a very exciting prospect from the outset, when he landed the Brocklesby Stakes at Doncaster in early April, beating Simmy’s Temple by 1 ¼ lengths.

Towards the end of that month he bumped into a really smart American horse in Create A Dream, but also caused interference and was disqualified, having finished ½ a length second at Ascot.

A month later he ran 1 ¼ lengths second of 6 to the impressive debutant Prince Of Lir in a Beverley conditions race. The pair met again in the Group 2 Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot in mid-June, where Prince Of Lir again got the

better of the argument by a reduced margin of ½ a length.

The Last Lion underlined the solidity of that form when landing a Listed contest at Sandown Park at the start of July, beating Smokey Lane by 2 lengths. Towards the end of that month he went to Goodwood for the Group 3 Molecomb Stakes and again ran a solid race, although he was no match for his stable mate Yalta, coming home 3 lengths second of 9.

At that stage he looked to be a good early season two year old who had arguably reached the ceiling of his progression.

In August that appeared to be the case as he stepped up to six furlongs for the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes at York, running well to finish 4 ¾ lengths third of 10 behind the impressive Blue Point.

However, The Last Lion very much had the last laugh on such notions, notching an impressive victory in the Group 3 Sirenia Stakes at Kempton Park, blasting his rivals and beating Koropick by 4 lengths in early September.

He was out again quickly the following week and dropped back down to five furlongs in the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster, running his usual solid race to finish ¾ of a length second of 11 to Ardad. His ninth start of the year – and still he had finished no worse than third!

Then came the crowning glory, as The Last Lion made just about every yard of the running, showing grit and determination to repel the challenge of Blue Point by ¾ of a length, with the tough Mehmas back in third, in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket.

With horses like Intelligence Cross, Mokarris and Mubtasim also all in the line-up, this race had a solid look to it form-wise and one can only speculate on what The Last Lion might have achieved next year.

Blue Point in mid-summer had a very tall reputation, but perhaps ended the year as something of a nearly horse, with other Godolphin horses attaining the Group 1 victory that twice eluded him.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS The Charlie Appleby trained son of Shamardal got the better of Tafaakhor at Nottingham in early June, but put up a striking performance when landing a novice contest at Doncaster in mid-July, slamming Shamsaya by 11 lengths.

Later that month he headed to Goodwood with a lofty reputation and ran ¼ of a length second of 4 to the more streetwise Mehmas in the Group 2 Richmond Stakes.

That run confirmed Blue Point to be a smart prospect and he confirmed that impression when dominating proceedings and taking the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes at York in August, beating Mokarris by an authoritative three lengths.

Off the back of that performance, Blue Point lined-up in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes over six furlongs, with solid credentials and plenty of confidence behind his bid.

He ran well, but frustratingly for connections, lacked an extra gear to take him into the lead, eventually finishing ¾ of a length second of 10 behind The Last Lion.

A fortnight later, he returned to the Rowley Mile and stepped up to seven furlongs for the Group 1 Dubai Dewhurst Stakes. Blue Point travelled well but late on failed to pick up as Churchill assumed command, coming home 1 ¾ lengths third of 7.

It was an admirable effort but there must be big doubts as to whether Blue Point will stay a mile. Furthermore, he seemed to just lack that extra gear when it mattered most against the elite, with Mehmas, The Last Lion and Churchill all gaining victories against Blue Point.

We feel his best chance, particularly with the former two now retired, might well be in the Group 1 Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, with races like the 6 ½ furlong Prix Maurice De Gheest well within the compass of this talented horse.

Save for one disappointment, Rivet arguably did enough to be deemed the leading juvenile trained in the British Isles in 2016.

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The William Haggas trained son of Fastnet Rock ran with great promise on debut to finish 1 ¼ lengths second of 6 to Eqtiraan in an Ascot maiden in late July.

He stepped up to seven furlongs for the always informative Convivial Maiden Stakes at York’s Ebor Festival and impressed greatly as he beat Contrapposto (a subsequent winner) by 3 ¼ lengths.

The following month Rivet stepped up in class for the Group 2 Champagne Stakes, showing great battling qualities to defeat Thunder Snow (himself a subsequent Group 1 winner) by a head in a thrilling finish.

Rivet headed to Newmarket in early October for the Group 1 Dubai Dewhurst Stakes, but was under pressure some way from home, before staying on to finish 3 ½ lengths fifth of 7 to Churchill. Afterwards there were murmurs that he had simply not handled the Newmarket track.

Certainly Rivet looked a different horse at Doncaster two weeks later when making much of the running and finding more from the front to land the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy over a mile, beating Yucatan by 1 ¾ lengths.

Haggas has not entirely ruled out a 2,000 Guineas bid, but Rivet looks likely to come into his own over further and there still remains that doubt regarding the Newmarket undulations. We feel that he just might make up into an ideal horse for a race like the Group 1 Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly.

Thunder Snow made a taking debut when winning a Leicester maiden by 1 ¼ lengths from Parys Mountain in May.

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW The Saeed bin Suroor trained son of Helmet was one of the early Godolphin two year olds this year and was not disgraced in the Group 2 Coventry Stakes when running 8 ½ lengths 6th of 18 to Caravaggio in mid-June.

He then stepped up to seven furlongs at Goodwood in late July, running a super race in the Group 2 Vintage Stakes to finish 1 ¾ lengths third of 9 to War Decree.

He was not seen again until the Group 2 Champagne Stakes at Doncaster in early September, running a blinder to finish a head second of 6 to Rivet after a stirring battle.

The pair met again in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket in early October, where Thunder Snow finished ahead of Rivet, running 2 lengths fourth of 7 behind Churchill.

Thunder Snow underlined his tough constitution as he was out again towards the end of October, winning the Group 1 Criterium International over seven furlongs, by an emphatic 5 lengths from South Seas and the smart filly Promise to Be True. That race was contested on soft ground and Thunder Snow appeared to improve over longer trips.

It would be no surprise to see Thunder Snow line-up in the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas next spring, although he might stay 1 ¼ miles in time.

Boynton was another Godolphin runner to make his mark at a relatively early stage of the summer.

The Charlie Appleby trained son of More Than Ready beat subsequent winner Mutawatheb by a neck at Goodwood in early June on his debut.

A month later he took a big step up in class in his stride as he beat War Decree by ¾ of a length to land the Group 2 Superlative Stakes at Newmarket.

That pair met again in the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood in late July, where, on more favourable terms, War Decree gained his revenge, with Boynton finishing 2 ¾ lengths third of 9 to the Ballydoyle colt.

Frustratingly we did not see either horse again in 2016, although the form was considerably boosted by Vintage Stakes runner-up Thunder Snow, when he landed a Group 1 in France in late October.

Boynton looked to have plenty of scope physically and appeared to thrive on a fast surface. He could be an interesting Guineas contender if in good form in the spring.

Syphax heads into 2017 unbeaten in two starts, having looked a really smart prospect at York.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS to play with and connections were happy to put him away for the winter after that run.

A return in something like the Dante Stakes at York would not be a surprise as he bids to enhance his Derby credentials.

Best Solution proved consistent throughout the campaign and seemed to improve in late autumn.

The Kevin Ryan trained son of Arch made a winning debut with a ¾ of a length defeat of Lucky Esteem at Musselburgh in early July.

The following month he headed to York for the Group 3 Acomb Stakes, taking on plenty of horses with big reputations.

With a furlong to race, Syphax was still well off the pace, but showed a terrific turn of foot to storm through on the outside and beat Best Of Days by a head.

We didn’t get to see Syphax race again, although his performances were enough for Godolphin to add him to their team.

Best Of Days went on to land the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes, giving the form a very positive outlook and Syphax could be an interesting 2,000 Guineas runner.

Best Of Days impressed enormously on his debut and at this point looks a leading British trained contender for the Derby.

The Hugo Palmer trained son of Azamour slammed Wahash by 6 lengths in a Sandown Park maiden in July and was promptly purchased by Godolphin.

He stepped up in class for the Group 3 Acomb Stakes at York in late August, finishing a head second of 7 to Syphax.

The following month he put up his best performance as he battled hard to repel the staying on The Anvil by a head in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket. It was a performance that showed he had good balance and stamina

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The Saeed bin Suroor trained son of Kodiac ran with promise on his debut when finishing 2 ¾ lengths third of 15 to Kodiline at Windsor in early July. He got off the mark next time out, winning a Goodwood maiden in late July by a length from the highly-regarded Rich And Famous.

In early September he headed to Turkey for a valuable Listed race, finishing 2 ¾ lengths third of 5 to the prolific local horse Waneta. Towards the end of that month he contested the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket, coming home 1 ¼ lengths fourth of 8 behind Larchmont Lad. He returned to the Rowley Mile in early October and ran a belter in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes, beating Zainholm by 2 lengths on his first attempt at a mile.

He stepped up in trip again at the end of that month – and again seemed to progress, coming home a length second of 13 to Waldgeist in the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud over 1 ¼ miles.

Best Solution was much-travelled in the autumn and ran plenty of times. He clearly has a tough constitution and improved every time he was stepped up in distance. He could well turn into a Derby candidate for next season.

Whilst there is disappointment that The Last Lion and Mehmas have both been packed off to stud, at least Ardad, another sharp two year old, is set to return in 2017.

The John Gosden trained son of Zodiac had a truly meteoric rise as he went from unraced juvenile to Royal Ascot winner in the space of a week.

He landed a Yarmouth maiden in June by a length from Seed Corn on good to firm ground.

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW Just six days later he made big waves as he landed the Listed Windsor Castle Stakes at Royal Ascot by 3 ¼ lengths from Savannah’s Dream.

He then stepped up to six furlongs for the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket in early July, but struggled, finishing 7 ¼ lengths last of 9 to Mehmas.

He again disappointed in the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes over six in August, finishing 8 lengths 7th of 10 behind Blue Point.

The following month he dropped back down to five furlongs for the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes, beating Legendary Lunch by ¾ of a length to maintain his unbeaten record over the minimum trip.

Ardad then took on seasoned older sprinters in the Group 1 Prix de l’Abbaye at Chantilly in early October, finishing a creditable 4 lengths 9th of 17 to Marsha.

With further strengthening up, Ardad should make up into a top sprinter in 2017 and should be capable of challenging for Group 1 honours. However, that may well be over the minimum trip rather than 6 furlongs.

Larchmont Lad looked a terrific prospect as he ran out a convincing 3 ¼ lengths winner from Maths Prize on debut at Sandown Park in early July.

The Richard Hannon trained son of Footstepsinthesand was not seen out again until Doncaster’s St Leger Festival in early September, when he ran a short neck third of 7 to Rodaini in a Listed contest.

With the benefit of that recent run, he showed battling qualities to land the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket in late September, beating Whitecliffsofdover by ¾ of a length.

There could be more improvement to come and connections have indicated that they feel he is a Guineas horse.

Alexios Komnenos was seen out just the twice in 2016, but made a huge impression and is an exciting horse for new trainer Fozzy Stack to go to war with.

The son of Choisir, out of a Montjeu mare, made a winning debut when defeating Inca Gold by an impressive 3 lengths in a Curragh maiden in late June, at the massive price of 50/1.

The following month he proved just what a slight that price had been, when giving Churchill plenty to think about in the Group 3 Tyros Stakes, just going down to a ¼ of a length defeat.

A setback ruled Alexios Komnenos out of the big autumn contests, but those two runs illustrated him to be a horse of immense talent and one with plenty of improvement to come.

With Tommy Stack retiring, he looks set to represent Fozzy in Classics next spring.

The first Frankel progeny hit the racecourse during 2016 and one of the early colts to make his mark was Frankuus.

The Mark Johnston trained colt showed a willing attitude to win a Haydock Park contest in mid-June, beating Arc Royal by 1 ¾ lengths, although he did appear to lean on his rival in the latter stages.

The following week he headed to Royal Ascot for the Listed Chesham Stakes, running a respectable race to come home 2 ½ lengths fifth of 13 behind Churchill.

He returned to Ascot in late July for a Listed contest, finishing ½ a length third of 9 to Apex King, but in midAugust was a disappointing 6 ¼ lengths last of 4 to Escobar in the Listed Washington Singer Stakes at Newbury.

He then travelled to Haydock Park in early September, for a first attempt at a mile, in soft ground. That combination seemed to suit him very well as he gamely beat Star Of Rory by ¾ of a length.

A month later he stepped up in trip again, landing the Group 3 Prix de Conde at Chantilly by a neck from Prinz Hlodowig.

Frankuus made his final start of the campaign in the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud in late October, but was a disappointing 6 ¾ lengths 8th of 13 behind Waldgeist.

Certainly it is far too soon to dismiss Frankuus and he appears to have plenty of scope for further improvement next year. It would be no surprise to see him return in a Derby trial.

The 2016 season proved a challenging one for many Chantilly-based trainers and certainly Andre Fabre’s big race victories were down on previous years.

He will however have taken much comfort for the performances of the exciting Waldgeist, who ended his season with Group 1 glory.

The son of Galileo is out of a Monsun mare, suggesting that stamina and improvement should be forthcoming next season.

He made a winning debut when beating Called To The Bar by two lengths in a Chantilly maiden in early September.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS The following month he returned there for the Group 3 Prix de Conde, running well to finish ½ a length third of 5 to Frankuus.

He reversed form with the son of Frankel when putting up a sparkling performance to win the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud in late October, beating the Group 3 Autumn Stakes winner Best Solution by a length.

Waldgeist at this stage looks to have strong credentials for Classic glory and was a stand-out from what looked to be a relatively sub-standard crop of French juvenile colts.

The other outstanding colt from France was National Defense, who put up a tremendous performance when winning the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Chantilly in October.

A month later he won the Group 3 Prix du Pins by a length from German runner High Alpha, with National Defense back in third.

Akihiro was workmanlike rather than spectacular, but will have learnt plenty from those runs. He may well line-up in the French Guineas next spring but 1 ¼ miles could well prove his optimum trip.

Fabre will also harbour high hopes for the unbeaten Al Wukair going into 2017.

The son of Dream Ahead is out of a Machiavellian mare and could develop into a Prix du Jockey Club contender.

He won his first start by 1 ½ lengths from Deimoss in a Saint-Cloud maiden in late September.

The following month he stepped up to a mile and won a Listed contest at Deauville by 1 ¾ lengths from Gold Luck.

The Freddy Head trained Gold Luck had won his first start by a head from Infiandra in a Maisons-Laffitte maiden in late September.

His second to Al Wukair reads well and this son of Redoute’s Choice could well be seen in the Prix Djebel ahead of a French Guineas bid in the spring.

Harry Angel was only briefly seen during 2016 but made his mark in two starts, four months apart.

Trained by Criquette Head-Maarek, who had a tough time during the year, the son of Invincible Spirit looked a potentially very smart colt when winning on debut by 6 lengths from On The Rox at Deauville in late August.

However, he was a little disappointing the Group 3 Prix des Chenes at Chantilly in early September, coming home 3 lengths third of 6 to Akihiro.

He showed that run to be wrong when lengthening away from his rivals in France’s main Group 1 race for juvenile colts on Arc day, beating Salouen by 4 ½ lengths. That form look solid, with the runner-up beaten just 2 lengths when third to Rivet in the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy, later in October.

National Defense is out of a Kingmambo mare and certainly has the potential to stay the Prix du Jockey Club trip next year, although Head-Maarek has not ruled out the possibility of a crack at the English 2,000 Guineas.

Akihiro was the third French-trained juvenile colt to make a significant mark on the year. The Andre Fabre trained son of Japanese superstar Deep Impact, goes into 2017 unbeaten in two starts.

He landed a Deauville maiden by a short head from Neguev in early August.

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW The Clive Cox trained son of Dark Angel ran a cracker on debut to finish a nose second of 6 to Reach High in an Ascot contest in early May. He was not seen again until mid-September, when he the Group 2 Mill Reef Stakes by 2 ½ lengths from Perfect Angel.

That confirmed the reputation he held in the spring and Harry Angel holds a QIPCO 2,000 Guineas entry in the spring.

He has clearly not been the easiest horse to train but has already confirmed his immense ability. Harry Angel will need more improvement to figure at Classic level but given he won a Group 2 contest on little more than raw ability, he should have plenty of scope for further progression.

Salouen took five starts to finally break his maiden, but put in some good performances along the way and has continued to progress.

The Sylvester Kirk trained son of Canford Cliffs was second on debut, beaten just a nose by Farleigh Mac at Salisbury in June.

After running 1 ¼ lengths third of 14 to Mutawatheb in a Newbury maiden in late June, he ran his only poor race to date when a well beaten 9th to the smart Escobar in another Newbury maiden in mid-July.

© Image supplied by Newbury Racecourse

Towards the end of that month he contested a maiden at Glorious Goodwood, coming home 4 ½ lengths fourth of 10 to Best Solution.

He got off the mark at Windsor in early August when impressing with a 3 ¼ length defeat of Star Archer. Later that month he ran a belter in the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown Park, finishing 2 ¼ lengths second of 10 to the smart South Seas.

In early September he landed a minor contest at Salisbury by ½ a length from Sea Fox and he continued to thrive with an excellent run in the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Chantilly, finishing 4 ½ lengths second of 7 to First Defense in early October.

Salouen had one more start, again putting up a solid performance in the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster in late October, coming home 2 lengths third of 10 to Rivet.

It transpired that Salouen had bumped into plenty of talented pattern race winners in his early starts and his performances at Group 1 level were commendable.

It would be no surprise to see him have a crack at the English or French Guineas next spring and whilst he perhaps lacked the brilliance of a Classic winner at two, further progression would see him with sound place credentials.

South Seas developed a lofty reputation during the summer and whilst he flopped in the Dewhurst, he redeemed a lot of that regard in his final start of the year in France.

The Andrew Balding trained son of Lope De Vega slammed his rivals by 8 lengths in a Windsor maiden in late June.

In mid-July he headed up to Haydock Park for a novice contest and was well on top in the latter stages, beating Abiento by 2 ¾ lengths.

He then showed his class in the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown Park in late August, beating subsequent Group 1 runner-up Salouen by 2 ¼ lengths.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS South Seas appeared to be targeted at the Dewhurst Stakes afterwards, but in the event was one of the first horses beaten, running a very lack lustre 4 ¼ lengths 6th of 7 to Churchill.

He put up a better performance (although beaten further by the winner than he had been in the Dewhurst) when finishing 5 lengths second of 9 to Thunder Snow in the Group 1 Criterium International at Saint-Cloud in late October.

South Seas remains a colt of huge potential and it would not surprise to see him line-up in the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas next spring. His best form seemed to come with give in the ground.

Much has been made of the first crop of Frankel and whilst they have run well to a point, they have come up short at Group 1 level.

Seven Heavens, who runs in those same Abdullah silks carried by his sire, caught the imagination during the summer before blowing out in the Dewhurst Stakes.

The John Gosden colt made a winning debut when defeating the useful Lockheed by a length in an Ascot maiden in early July.

In late August he ran in a two-horse contest at Goodwood, pulling hard for much of the race before lengthening well away from Shabeeh to record a six length victory. There were mixed reactions to his antics and he simply failed to settle.

Seven Heavens donned headgear in the preliminaries before the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket in October, but failed to pick up and finished 5 ¼ lengths last of 7 behind Churchill.

Seven Heavens is out of the talented filly Heaven Sent and a mile ought to be his perfect trip next season. Connections may well feel that he is worth another shot at Group 1 glory in the 2,000 Guineas, but he needs to settle better and there is a question mark as to whether he is good enough.

Rich And Famous made a pleasing debut when finishing a length second of 10 to Best Solution in a maiden at Glorious Goodwood in late July.

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But it was the manner of his victory on his subsequent start, that caught the attention, as the Mark Johnston trained son of Bernadini beat Father McKenzie by 3 ¼ lengths in a Newmarket maiden in mid-August.

He skipped a number of high profile engagements in the autumn, but his run in a Listed contest at York in October proved disastrous as he trailed in 20 lengths last of 12 behind Sir Dancelot.

That was clearly not his true form and it would be rash to write Rich And Famous off on this performance. He is clearly held in high regard and assuming whatever ailed him at York is resolved, he should develop into a fine three year old.

Sir Michael Stoute is not renowned these days for pitching many juvenile colts into big races, suggesting that he holds Zainhom in high regard.

The son of Street Cry shaped with promise on his debut to finish 3 ¾ lengths third of 5 behind Berengaria in a Leicester maiden in early August.

He really impressed on his next start, landing a York maiden by an authoritative 2 ¼ lengths from Dick Tracy in early September.

That saw him earn a step up in trip (to a mile) and class for the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket in October, where he performed with great credit to finish 2 lengths second of 10 to the smart Best Solution.

There ought to be lots more to come from Zainhom and it would be no surprise to see him take in a graduation race next spring, before having a crack at a Derby trial.

D’bai performed with great credit before flopping on his first crack at Group 1 competition.

The Charlie Appleby trained son of Dubawi ran well on debut to finish 1 ½ lengths second of 11 to Dubai Hero in a Newmarket maiden at the July Festival.

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW He returned to that track just over two weeks later and won a similar contest by a short head from Hydroxide.

D’bai took a big step up in class in early September, when contesting the Group 2 Champagne Stakes at Doncaster, finishing 5 ¼ lengths third of 6 to Rivet.

He got back to winning ways but was made to work hard to defeat Al Hamdany by a short head in a Listed Pontefract race in mid-October.

A couple of weeks later he failed to give his best when trailing in 12 lengths 11th of 13 behind Waldgeist in the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud.

D’bai might have been feeling the effects of a busy autumn with that last run, perhaps 1 ¼ miles proved too much at that stage of his career. However, equally relevant might be the term “soft” in the going description, just as it had been at Pontefract.

D’bai might well prove a different proposition next season on summer ground and should certainly stay 1 ¼ miles as the year progresses.

Monticello proved a smart early season juvenile but struggled as the season progressed.

The Mark Johnston trained son of Teofilo won on debut when beating Celestial Spheres by ½ a length at Sandown Park in early June.

He followed up at Musselburgh later that month, slamming Wigan Warrior by 5 lengths.

In late July he headed to Ascot for a Listed race, finishing ¼ of a length second of 9 to Apex King.

A month later he lined up for the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown Park, but put in a disappointing run to come home 6 lengths 6th of 10 to South Seas.

His final start of the campaign came in a Listed contest at Pontefract in October, when he again failed to figure, coming home 10 lengths fifth of 8 behind D’bai.

At this stage Monticello would need significant improvement to make his mark in Group company, but he ought to stay 1 ¼ miles and should have more victories inside him.

Montataire showed promise in his first two starts but flourished subsequently, winning four times and making his mark in pattern company.

The Mark Johnston trained son of Cape Cross ran second to Top Score on his racecourse debut at Ripon in mid-May and in early June finished 3 ¼ lengths fourth of 9 to the smart Boynton at Goodwood.

He got off the mark at Hamilton Park later than month with an impressive 2 ¼ lengths defeat of What’s The Story and made it back to back wins when defeating Mister Blue Sky by ½ a length in an Ascot nursery in early July.

A couple of weeks later he completed his hat-trick in a Newmarket nursery, beating Luduamf by 3 ¼ lengths, before his run came to a halt, thanks to one of his own stable mates, when he finished 4 lengths second of 15 to Bear Valley in a nursery at Glorious Goodwood in late July.

He got back to winning ways with a spectacular performance in a Listed race at Salisbury in August, beating Gemina by 5 lengths.

Montataire then stepped up in grade and was not disgraced in finishing 3 ½ lengths 6th of 8 to Best Of Days in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket in late September.

He returned there in early October for the Group 3 Autumn Stakes, putting up a solid performance to finish 5 ¾ lengths fourth of 10 to Best Solution.

Montataire kept his form throughout a busy season and showed enough ability to suggest he could make up into a competitive middle distance pattern company horse next season.

Mokarris looked a smart prospect when winning on debut by 2 lengths from Tafakoor at Haydock Park in late May.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS The Simon Crisford trained son of More Than Ready then completely flopped in the Group 2 Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot in June, coming home a very disappointing 24 lengths 16th of 18 to Caravaggio.

He proved himself far better than that when landing a Listed prize at Newbury a month later, beating Nobly Born by 2 ¾ lengths.

That earned him a step up in class again in August, when he again ran well when 3 lengths second of 10 to the impressive Blue Point in the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes at York.

He was seen out just once more, a month later in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes, when he was a disappointing 4 ¼ lengths 6th of 10 behind The Last Lion.

Mokarris is out of a Street Cry mare and ought to stay a mile comfortably. It may well be that he was racing over a slightly inadequate trip as a juvenile and we would expect to see him do well on a faster surface over 7 furlongs or more in 2017.

Mubtasim had a similar profile to Mokkaris, showing plenty of talent but then flopping at a higher grade.

The William Haggas trained son of Arcano beat Jumira Bridge by 2 lengths on debut at Yarmouth in late June.

He followed-up with a most impressive display when landing a minor contest at Haydock Park in early August by 4 ½ lengths from Town Charter.

Later that month he headed to York for the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes, but ran deplorably, finishing 8 ¾ lengths 8th of 10 to Blue Point.

That run looked all wrong at the time and he duly dropped in class for a competitive and valuable sales race at Doncaster in September, beating Mazyoun by 1 ¾ lengths.

Mubtasim had one more start, but again failed to perform in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket in late September, eventually coming home a bitterly disappointing

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6 lengths 9th of10 to The Last Lion, racing wide of the rest of the field and on his own.

It may be that his final start can be forgotten, as Mubtasim had no cover and was clearly at a disadvantage, against talented rivals. He is out of a King’s Best mare and should get a mile and it would be no surprise to see him return in something like the Greenham Stakes.

Having shown real promise on his first two starts, Raheen House got off the mark and have a progressive profile by season’s end.

The Brian Meehan trained son of Sea The Stars ran 1 ¼ lengths second of 11 to Genetics on debut, in a Newbury maiden in late August.

He returned to the Berkshire track in mid-September for the prestigious Haynes, Hanson & Clark Conditions Stakes, coming home ¼ of a length second of four to Temple Church.

Raheen House then won a York maiden in early October by 1 ¾ lengths from Native Prospect and earned himself a crack at the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster.

He put up a fine performance to finish 2 ¼ lengths fourth of 10 behind Rivet – a super effort for such a big leap in class.

Raheen House is out of a Monson mare and one would imagine will relish further next season and he could well develop into a Derby contender.

Koropick looked a smart prospect when winning on debut in mid-August and gave a good account of himself next time out.

The Hugo Palmer trained son of Kodiac beat Prazeres by 4 ½ lengths in a Thirsk contest and then headed to Kempton Park in early September, for the Group 3 Sirenia Stakes.

He ran on well, although no match for the winner, when finishing 4 lengths second of 7 to The Last Lion.

Three weeks later that Sirenia Stakes form was upheld as Koropick finished 4 lengths fifth of 10 to The Last Lion in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket. That was a fabulous effort for a horse with so little experience.

However, on good to soft ground, Koropick ran dismally

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW in the Group 2 Criterium de Maisons-Laffitte in midOctober, finishing last of 7 to Sans Equivoque.

Koropick is out of a Fayruz mare and would look likely to contest sprint races next season, with the Commonwealth Cup and Jersey Stakes viable targets.

Ger Lyons enjoyed a good season with his juveniles and his Medicine Jack showed plenty of ability.

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The son of Equiano ran 3 lengths third of 11 to Lundy on his debut in a Leopardstown maiden in early May, but the following week was a disappointing 6 ¾ lengths 6th of 8 behind Mehmas in a hot conditions race at Newbury.

Towards the end of May he was an emphatic winner of a Navan maiden, beating Magnification by 4 ¼ lengths.

He built well on that performance and was a taking winner of the Group 2 Railway Stakes at the Curragh in late June, beating Peace Envoy by ½ a length.

In early August he had his first taste of Group 1 action in the Phoenix Stakes at the same course, but was no match for Caravaggio, coming home 6 ¾ lengths third of 5 to the leading juvenile colt at the time in Ireland.

Just over a month later he ran in a valuable Tattersalls Ireland Sales race at the Curragh on Irish Champions Weekend, finishing 2 lengths third of 30 to Orewa.

He lined up in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket on his final start of the year, finishing 5 ½ lengths 7th of 10 behind The Last Lion.

Medicine Jack was a sharp two year old and being by Equiano, it would appear likely that sprinting will remain his forte. He has already proven that he is up to winning Group races, but may just fall short of Group 1 class.

Psychedelic Funk also established himself as one of the leading early 2 year olds in Ireland, with his second success making a strong visual impression.

The Ger Lyons trained son of Choisir got off the mark at the first time of asking, beating Bean Feasa by ½ a length at Naas in April.

The following month he took on other previous winners in the often informative Fishery Lane Race at the same track, beating Ambiguity by six authoritative lengths.

He then headed to Royal Ascot and the Group 2 Coventry Stakes, running a solid race to finish 4 ¾ lengths third of 18 behind the smart Caravaggio.

A month later he ran another decent race when 1 ¾ lengths second of 6 to Peace Envoy in the Group 3 Anglesey Stakes at the Curragh.

After a break he stepped up to seven furlongs in the Group 1 National Stakes at the Curragh in September, but ran a disappointing race to finish 13 ½ lengths 6th of 7 to Churchill.

Psychedelic Funk showed plenty of speed in his early starts but should stay a little further. Whilst we doubt he is quite up to Group 1 level, he ought to have Group victories in him next season up to 7 furlongs.

Dreamfield will enter 2017 with his unbeaten record intact, although he had to work hard for his second victory.

© A.J. Byles

The John Gosden trained son of Oasis Dream is seen as an outright sprinter by his trainer and made a winning debut when defeating Sitar by 8 very impressive lengths in a Nottingham maiden in early October.

Predictably the bookmakers immediately started to mislead the public with stupid Guineas quotes, which proved very far wide of the mark.

Dreamfield stepped up to seven furlongs for the prestigious Houghton Stakes at Newmarket later in October, and had to fight hard to just get the better of Top Score by a short head.

It seemed clear from Gosden afterwards that Dreamfield would not be aimed at the Guineas and would be trained for sprint races in 2017.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS Tis Marvellous shaped with promise on his debut when running a length second of 14 to the more experienced Mutwatheb in a Newbury maiden in late June.

The Clive Cox trained son of Harbour Watch made no mistake on his second run, slamming Silent Assassin by an impressive 8 lengths at Windsor in early July.

Later that month he took a huge step up in class in the Group 2 Prix Robert Papin at Maisons-Laffitte – and stamped himself a smart colt as he beat Al Johrah by 2 ½ lengths.

At that point he looked a leading UK-based juvenile, but he faded quickly and was a big disappointment in the Group 1 Prix Morny a month later, running 3 ¾ lengths last of 5 behind Lady Aurelia.

In early September he dropped back down to five furlongs in the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes, but again disappointed, coming home 4 ½ lengths 9th of 11 to Ardad.

Tis Marvellous drew comparisons with his predecessor Reckless Abandon, but ultimately disappointed in the latter half of the season. He is bred to be quick, out of an Oasis Dream mare, and could well be aimed at the Commonwealth Cup next season.

Yalta was at his best one of the fastest two year olds of the season, having put up one of the best juvenile performances of the year at Glorious Goodwood.

The Mark Johnston trained son of Exceed And Excel beat Repton by 2 lengths on debut at Goodwood in May. Towards the end of that month he followed-up with a 4 ½ lengths defeat of Wedding Dress in a Pontefract conditions race.

He then contested the Group 2 Coventry Stakes at the Royal Meeting, but could only manage 13 lengths 8th of 18 to Caravaggio. He again disappointed in the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket, coming home 7 lengths 8th of 9 to Mehmas but proved a revelation when dropped to 5 furlongs in the Group 3 Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood in late July.

Yalta showed blistering toe to beat his stable mate The Last Lion by an emphatic 3 lengths.

A month later he ran in the Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes at York, but found himself out of his depth against experienced older horses finishing 19 lengths last of 19 to Mecca’s Angel.

He again disappointed in the Group 2 Flying Childers Stakes at Doncaster in early September, finishing 6 lengths 10th of11 behind Ardad.

In early October he was perhaps a little over the top when running 4 ¼ lengths 6th of 9 behind the flying filly Mrs Danvers in the Group 3 Cornwallis Stakes at Newmarket.

Yalta is a big, powerful horse and ought to have further physical development. At his best and on a fast surface, he will

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command plenty of respect in top class sprints.

Lockheed showed a good level of consistent form and should develop into a useful middle distance horse next year.

The William Haggas trained grey son of Exceed And Excel ran well on debut in an Ascot maiden in early July, finishing a length second of 12 to the exciting Frankel colt Seven Heavens.

At the end of that month, he landed a maiden at Glorious Goodwood, beating Ray’s The Money by ½ a length.

In late August he headed to York’s Group 3 Acomb Stakes and ran well to finish a length third of 7 to Syphax.

He then travelled over to the Curragh in early September for the Group 1 National Stakes, again running a decent race to finish 4 ½ lengths third of 7 behind Churchill.

His final start of the year was a little disappointing as he ran 8 lengths fifth of 10 behind Best Solution in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket.

Escobar looked a very exciting prospect in two appearances at Newbury this summer and whilst he disappointed on his final start, remains a horse of real potential.

The Hugo Palmer trained son of Famous Name landed a Newbury maiden in mid-July by 2 lengths from the experienced Devil’s Bridge. The following month he added the Listed Washington Singer Stakes by 1 ¼ lengths from Mr Scaramanga.

He was not seen out again until the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket in September, where he failed to pick up and ran 9 lengths 7th of 8 to Larchmont Lad.

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW Connections revealed that he had returned a dirty scope afterwards and remain confident that Escobar will make up into a Guineas horse, with Palmer suggesting he is likely to start off in one of the traditional trials next spring.

Sir Dancelot made very little impression when running down the field behind Kodiline in a Windsor contest in early July, but did not look back after that effort.

The David Elsworth trained son of Sir Prancelot won a Kempton Park maiden auction by 6 lengths from Tonahutu in mid-August and followed-up with a 1 ½ lengths defeat of War Of Succession in a conditions race at the same track in early September.

Later that month he stepped up in class for the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes at Newmarket, running well to finish ¾ of a length third of 8 to Larchmont Lad. He confirmed his continued improvement at York in early October when winning a Listed contest by ¾ of a length from Dream Of Dreams.

He then headed to Doncaster for the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy and was not disgraced in finishing 4 ¼ lengths 6th of 10 behind Rivet.

That probably exposed him a little bit but it would not be a surprise to see him take his chance in the 2,000 Guineas next season.

City Of Joy took time for the penny to full drop but looks to have plenty of potential.

The Sir Michael Stoute trained son of Elusive City ran 5 ¼ lengths fifth of 14 to Deningy in a Sandown Park maiden

in August, but improved to finish 1 ¾ lengths second of 11 to Swiss Dream in a Newbury maiden in mid-September.

He lost his maiden tag on his latest start when beating Archer’s Arrow by ½ a length at Redcar, at the beginning of October.

His final start was bitterly disappointing, as he ran a tailed off last of 13 behind Pleaseletmewin in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes at Newbury, later in October.

It was a poor effort but it should be noted that Sir Michael Stoute ran very few two year old colts in pattern contests. He should also improve for better ground and over longer trips next year.

Solomon’s Bay looked in need of the run when finishing 5 ¾ lengths 6th of 12 behind Seven Heavens in an Ascot maiden in early July, although at that time the Roger Varian yard was out of form.

This flashy son of Exceed And Excel, with a big white face, looked a very different proposition when landing a Yarmouth maiden in mid-September by ¾ of a length from Calibration.

The following month he was stepped up in trip to a mile, for the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket, finishing a remote last of 10 to Best Solution.

It may well be that he just needs more time and he has plenty of filling out still to do. We would see him perhaps coming into his own in the second half of next season.

Rodaini showed that pleasing knack of finding ways to win races as he landed his first four, before finding things tougher when upped in grade.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS The Simon Crisford trained son of Exchange Rate landed a Leicester maiden in late May by just a nose from Magillen, before adding a Lingfield Park novice race in mid-August by an impressive 4 ½ lengths from Matthioli.

He completed his hat-trick with a ½ a length victory over Clef in a Newmarket nursery in late August, before stepping up in class and winning a thrilling Listed race at Doncaster in early September, defeating Salsabeel by a short head.

To that point he had not stopped improving and he was a little unlucky in running but well beaten in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket in early October, coming home 25 lengths 9th of 10 to Best Solution.

Rodaini had one more start in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf at Santa Anita, finishing a tailed off last of 14 behind Oscar Performance.

On breeding Rodaini ought to get 1 ¼ miles comfortably although his worst runs came over a mile, the longest he raced in 2016. He could well come back to his best in the spring after a long break an looks capable of winning up to Group 3 level.

Pleaseletmewin gained plenty of experience and put up his best performance in his final start in England, before he was sadly sold to continue his career in Qatar.

The former Ralph Beckett trained son of Power was a well beaten fourth of 5 behind Yalta on his debut at Goodwood in May. At the end of that month he lost his maiden tag when defeating Zamjar by a short head at Wolverhampton.

The following month he headed to Newmarket for a novice contest, finishing 1 ½ lengths third of 8 to Apex King, but his return there yielded his most impressive performance to date at the July Festival, as he won a valuable nursery by ½ a length from Bacchus. Later in July he ran a decent race in a strong renewal of the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood, finishing 3 ¼ lengths fourth of 9 to War Decree.

In early October, he stepped up to a mile in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket, but ran by far his worst race of the campaign when finishing 10 ½ lengths 7th of 10 to Best Of Days.

He show no ill effects from that disappointment and later in October dropped back down to 7 furlongs for the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes, beating Kings Gift by 2 ¼ lengths.

Every horse is entitled to one bad run in judging its overall level of form and there was plenty of reason to feel Pleaseletmewin was worth his chance at Group 2 level again, before his sale.

Sea Fox showed promise when second on his first two starts, before going one better in his third race.

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The David Evans trained son of Kodiac was a short head second of 13 to Aardwolf in a Newbury maiden in June.

Just under two weeks later he was second again, beaten 2 ¼ lengths by Jackhammer, at Salisbury.

He lost his maiden tag when defeating Grey Britain by a length in a Lingfield Park maiden in early July and the following month was far from disgraced in a Listed Salisbury contest, running 5 ¾ lengths third of 10 to Montataire.

He returned to the Wiltshire venue in early September and again ran well when ½ a length second of 5 to Salouen.

A week later, Evans sent his charge to Chantilly for the Group 3 Prix des Chenes, where he finished 4 ½ lengths fourth of 6 to Akihiro, beaten just 1 ½ lengths by subsequent Group 1 winner National Defense.

Sea Fox had a busy few weeks and later in September re-confirmed himself a Group class horse when finishing a length third of 8 to Best of Days in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket.

His last two runs of the year perhaps suggested he was feeling the effects of a hectic autumn, as he ran 9 ½ lengths 6th of 10 to Best Solution in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes and then finished 3 ½ lengths fourth of 13 behind Pleaseletmewin in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes.

Sea Fox is probably a little short of Group 1 quality but proved himself an admirable and tough opponent in Group company. We would expect him to continue in that vein next season and he is capable of winning a nice prize with careful placement next season.

Arcada took time to find his way but won what looked to be a good maiden last time out.

The Joseph O’Brien trained son of Rip Van Winkle was a well beaten 8th of 13 behind Mirdif in a Leopardstown maiden in mid-June, but showed signs of ability when 4 lengths fourth of 14 to the very useful Alexios Komnenos in a Curragh maiden ten days later.

He got off the mark with a ½ a length victory over the smart Capri back at the Curragh in mid-July, making use of his experience.

The following month he contested the Group 2 Futurity Stakes at the Curragh, coming home 2 ¾ lengths third of 4 to Churchill.

He stepped up to a mile in the Group 2 Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket in late September and ran well to finish a length third of 8 to Best Of Days.

Arcada may prove just a little below Group 1 class but demonstrated plenty of talent and should be contesting Group races with regularity in 2017.

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW Bear Valley was most progressive during the height of summer but disappointed when stepped up in grade later on.

The Mark Johnston trained son of Manduro ran well on debut to finish ¾ of a length second of 7 to Roar at Beverley in mid-June. Towards the end of that month he was second again, beaten 2 ½ lengths by Bacchus at Haydock Park.

He got off the mark when beating Hurricane Rush by 2 lengths at Epsom Downs in mid-July and followed up at Glorious Goodwood with an authoritative 4 lengths defeat of stable mate Montataire, in a valuable nursery in late July.

The following month he headed to the Group 3 Acomb Stakes at York, but was a disappointing 7 ½ lengths 6th of 7 to Syphax.

Bear Valley proved most disappointing on his final starts of the campaign, finishing last in the Group 3 Tattersalls Stakes and in the Listed Zetland Stakes, with the suggestion that he perhaps did not handle Newmarket’s undulations.

He should get further next year and appeared to act best on a fast surface.

Salsabeel looked a really exciting prospect on debut and sowed good solid form on which he can build next year.

The Charlie Appleby trained son of Exceed And Excel got the better of Novoman by ½ a length in a Yarmouth maiden in early August.

Just over a month later he ran in a Listed contest at Doncaser, finishing a short head second of 7 to the vastly more experience Rodaini.

A mile should be within Salsabeel’s remit next season and it would be no surprise to see him pitched into a Guineas somewhere next spring.

Whilst Aidan O’Brien dominated the two year old colt scene in Ireland, one horse he was unable to topple was the unbeaten Landfall.

Ken Condon’s son of Myboycharlie put up a bold frontrunning show on debut, to land a Curragh maiden by ¾ of a length from the smart Exemplar in August.

The following month he won a Group 3 contest at Leopardstown over Irish Champions’ Weekend, defeating Firey Speech by 2 ¼ lengths.

Landfall was not seen out again but will surely be targeted at either the English or Irish 2,000 Guineas next season.

Firey Speech was a well beaten 6th of 10 to Intricately on his racecourse debut in June, but progressed with each start thereafter.

The Dermot Weld trained son of Street Cry looked to have learned plenty next time out as he beat Sportsmanship by ½ a length in a Naas maiden in early July. At the end of that month, he made it two from two in a nursery at the Galway Festival, defeating Sir Edwin Landseer by 2 lengths.

He then contested what is often a hot Group 3 at Leopardstown on Irish Champions’ Weekend, running a fine race to finish 2 ¼ lengths second of 5 to the smart Landfall.

Firey Speech has an Irish 2,000 Guineas entry and it would be no surprise to see him return to Leopardstown for a trial next spring.

Jim Bolger had an uncharacteristically quiet 2016 campaign but ended well when Dubai Sand got off the mark in a Listed race.

© www.healyracing.ie

© www.healyracing.ie

This son of Teofilo out of a Rock Of Gibraltar mare, ran green on debut when finishing 7 ½ lengths 6th of 11 to Utah in a Curragh maiden in early August.

Two months later he showed improvement to finish 1 ¼ lengths second of 14 behind the more experienced Grandee at the same track.

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS In late October he stepped up to 9 furlongs and landed the Listed Eyrefield Stakes at Leopardstown, beating the promising maiden Diodorus by ½ a length.

Dubai Sand was brought along quietly all campaign and really grew into his role, with that final race a handsome pay off.

We would expect him to improve much more next season, although quite what he is capable of is hard to asses – however he looks likely to be contesting Classic trials.

Eqtiraan looked an exciting recruit on debut and ran on well despite greenness when stepped up in grade on his second start.

The Richard Hannon trained son of Helmet landed an Ascot maiden in late July by 1 ¼ lengths from Rivet – who of course went on to significantly frank the form as the season progressed.

A month later Eqtiraan contested the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown Park, doing lots wrong before running on to finish 3 ¼ lengths third of 10 to South Seas.

He had one more race in a soft ground conditions contest at Salisbury in late September, coming home 1 ¼ lengths second of 4 to Smokey Lane.

Eqtiraan had plenty of maturing to do and with the Hannon team again possessing plenty of strength in depth, it would be interesting to see where this horse returns and if he is deemed worthy of a Classic trial.

Fly At Dawn proved a hugely likeable and progressive Godolphin colt during 2016.

The Charlie Appleby trained son of Discreet Cat landed a Newmarket maiden by a length from Harbour Master in late July and in mid-August made it two from two with a 3 lengths defeat of Northdown in a Kempton Park nursery.

In early September he lost his unbeaten record when 1 ¾ lengths third of 5 to the useful Sir Dancealot in a conditions race at Kempton Park, but he regained the winning thread at Newmarket in late September, when beating Whip Nae Nae by ¾ of a length in a nursery.

Fly At Dawn stepped up to 1 ¼ miles for the Listed Zetland Stakes on his final start of the campaign, finishing a respectable 5 ¼ lengths fifth of 12 to the smart filly Coronation.

Whilst Fly At Dawn might not have stood out among the Godolphin highflyers, he performed admirably and given his breeding, it would be no surprise to see him competing in Meydan this winter.

Cunco was the very first Frankel colt to make the racecourse and immediately generated excitement as a result of his antics and acceleration.

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The John Gosden trained colt was very much on his toes and hard to handle in the preliminaries at Newbury in midMay, but powered through in the latter stages to beat Isomer by ¾ of a length.

His reappearance in the Listed Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot was greatly anticipated, but he was beaten 1 ½ lengths into third place by subsequent Champion Two Year Old Churchill.

Cunco then appeared to plateau, finishing a well beaten 6 ½ lengths fourth of 9 to Boynton and War Decree in the Group 2 Superlative Stakes at Newmarket in early July and then 7 ¾ lengths fourth of 10 to Montataire in a Listed race at Salisbury the following month.

In early September he encountered soft ground in a Listed mile race at Haydock Park, running on to finish 1 ¼ lengths third of 6 to Frankuus.

All of the time Cunco was learning to settle better and he ran really well as Gosden stepped him up to 10 furlongs for the Listed Zetland Stakes at Newmarket in early October, finishing ¼ of a length second of 12 to his exciting unbeaten stable mate Coronation.

Cunco had his shot at Group 1 glory in the SaintCloud mud, but struggled, finishing 5 ¼ lengths 7th of 13 to Waldgeist in the Criterium de Saint-Cloud in late October.

Throughout the summer we felt that the publicity Cunco received was over the top and put unfair expectations on this admirable horse. He was ultimately an early season two year old, but one who showed good durability as he raced throughout the season and stepped up in class and trip.

We have no doubt he will prove best on good ground next season and probably over 1 ¼ miles. He is certainly up to Group standard, although we will be surprised if he becomes Frankel’s first Group 1 winner.

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW There were plenty of other exciting but less exposed juvenile colts to make the racecourse during 2016 and here we review some of those names worth keeping an eye on.

Cracksman made a tremendous impression on us on his only start as a juvenile.

He is out of a Peintre Celebre mare and should stay well.

He holds a Derby entry and we would expect to see Alfawaris lose his maiden in the early spring and then build towards a Derby trial.

On that same Newmarket card, Cape Byron was another colt to make a very favourable impression.

© A.J. Byles

The John Gosden trained son of Frankel was not seen until October, when he contested a Newmarket maiden.

The Godolphin runner Wild Tempest came out of the pack, racing wide, whilst Cracksman had the rail advantage and looked the more compact of the two in the Dip, as they drew clear of their rivals.

At the line, Cracksman won by 1 ¼ lengths in the manner of a smart horse.

Racing in the famous Oppenheimer silks, Cracksman naturally drew immediate comparisons with the magnificent Golden Horn. Gosden appeared to rule out a crack at the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas next spring and it will be interesting to see if he decides to further the colt’s experience in a graduation race or to pitch straight into a Derby trial or even the Feilden Stakes, a contest his illustrious former stable mate won en route to Epsom glory.

Wild Tempest certainly put up a fight in that Newmarket contest and came to win his race.

However, the Charlie Appleby trained son of Raven’s Pass appeared a little unbalanced and weak in the Dip and racing without company, found Cracksman too strong.

Even so, this was a super first effort and Wild Tempest, who holds a 2,000 Guineas entry, could well develop into a smart horse next season.

This looked a good maiden and the fourth Stradivarius went on to win subsequently, while the third placed Alfawaris, looks a lovely prospect for Owen Burrows.

The son of Frankel had finished 3 lengths third to another Frankel colt, Swiss Cross, in a Newbury maiden in midSeptember. He was 4 lengths behind Cracksman at Newmarket.

© A.J. Byles

The Roger Varian trained son of Shamardal made a nice introduction when finishing a length second of 8 to the exciting Utmost in a Leicester maiden in early October.

Eight days later he got off the mark and looked a smart prospect in a Newmarket maiden, slamming Manchego by 2 ½ lengths.

Cape Byron is out of a Mark Of Esteem mare and holds an entry in the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas. We know that he handles the track, but at this stage he still lacks experience and it would be no surprise to see Cape Byron line-up in the Craven Stakes next April.

The Hugo Palmer trained Manchego is a horse worth keeping an eye on going into 2017.

The son of Lope De Vega had just the one start in a Newmarket maiden in October, when finishing 2 ½ lengths second of 13 to the more experienced Cape Byron.

He is entitled to come on a bundle for that race and holds a Derby entry. He is still very much at the embryonic stage of his career but should progress well next year.

Utmost got off the mark at the first time of asking in a Leicester maiden, beating subsequent impressive Newmarket scorer Cape Byron by a length, with another Newmarket maiden winner Makkaar finishing third.

The John Gosden trained son of Giant’s Causeway should certainly stay 1 ¼ miles in time and we suspect he will be given just that. It would be no surprise to see him saved and trained with a Royal Ascot target in mind, particularly given that he currently holds no Classic entries.

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January 2017

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS Makkaar is another son of Raven’s Pass and he progressed nicely towards the back end of the turf season.

The Mark Johnston colt finished 1 ¼ lengths third of 4 to Areen Heart in a Beverley maiden in late September. In early October he was not disgraced when 3 ¼ lengths third of 8 to Utmost and Cape Byron at Leicester.

He got off the mark with a 1 ¾ lengths defeat of Top Mission in a Newmarket maiden in late October.

Makkaar showed plenty of ability, particularly in his second and third starts – and the fact that he seemed to improve and was only seen out late in the year, suggests that he needed time and has lots of improvement to come. He is another colt who does not hold any Classic engagements but he should certainly be up to Listed standard and could well target Royal Ascot.

Top Mission put up a lovely performance on his only start, when finishing 1 ¾ lengths second of 9 to the more experienced Makkaar in a Newmarket maiden in late October.

The Saeed bin Suroor trained son of Dubawi is out of a Nedawi mare, suggesting longer trips will be well within his compass in 2017. He is a maiden worth following next year and with progression, could easily develop into a Group horse.

Eminent was an eye-catching winner of a Newmarket maiden on his only start.

The Martyn Meade trained son of Frankel did it the hard way, racing wide of his rivals and without any cover, but still had a tremendous engine and pulled 2 ¾ lengths clear of Vantage Point. Whilst the form may not be spectacular, this was an impressive performance by the winner who was clearly superior to his rivals.

He holds QIPCO 2,000 Guineas and Investec Derby entries and it would be no surprise to see him line-up in the Guineas.

Time Zone made a very pleasing debut when landing a Newmarket maiden in late September.

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The Peter Chapple-Hyam trained son of Kheleyf beat Doctor Bartolo by 1 ½ lengths.

He remains completely unexposed and could be anything and we would not be surprised to see him take in a Guineas trial next spring.

Emmaus made the perfect start to his career when winning a Leicester maiden in late September.

The Roger Varian trained son of Invincible Spirit beat Sound Bar by a neck over 7 furlongs.

A month later he headed to Deauville for a Listed race over a mile, finishing 4 ¼ lengths fourth of 8 to the unbeaten Al Wukair.

He is out of a Galileo mare and with a little more time to strengthen up, should make up into a useful middle distance horse next year.

Eaton Square made a winning debut when landing a Nottingham maiden in late July by a neck from Rag Tatter.

The John Gosden trained son of Invincible Spirit then headed to Sandown Park for a conditions race in midSeptember, running well to finish 2 lengths second of 6 to Rebel De Lope.

He proved somewhat disappointing on his final start in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes at Newbury in late October finishing 5 lengths 7th of 13 to Pleaseletmewin.

It would be too soon to write off this colt and he could well be trained with Royal Ascot in mind next year.

Executive Force looked a useful recruit when landing a Newbury maiden on debut by 2 ¼ lengths from Dark Power in mid-September.

The William Haggas trained son of Sepoy confirmed that impression when running well in a Listed race at Dundalk in early October, finishing 1 ½ lengths second of 9 to Ambassadorial.

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW He may well have found three quick runs just a little too much at this formative stage of his career, as he struggled in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes in late October, coming home 17 ½ lengths 12th of 13 behind Pleaseletmewin.

With a little more time to develop, Executive Force should make his mark over 7 furlongs and a mile next year.

Musawaat made a winning debut when landing a Newbury maiden in mid-September.

The Charlie Hills trained son of Equiano beat Natajack by a head over six furlongs.

The following month he returned to the Berkshire course but in soft ground and over 7 furlongs, disappointed in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes, running 11 lengths 10th of 13 behind Pleaseletmewin.

We feel he is better than that and it may well be that a faster surface and sprint distance is right up his street next year.

Defoe remains a colt of real promise, despite disappointing on his final start of the year.

The Roger Varian trained son of Dalakhani is out of a Pivotal mare and should stay well in time.

He made a winning debut when beating Bianca Minola by a head in a Ffos Las maiden in early September.

A fortnight later he ran well in a conditions race at Epsom, coming home 1 ¾ lengths second of 5 to the more experienced Medieval.

In October he contested the 10 furlong Listed Zetland Stakes at Newmarket, but came home a disappointing tailed off 11th of 12 to Coronet.

It may well be that the best is yet to come from Defoe in the second half of next season. He should stay 12 furlongs well in time and we suspect he might end up making his mark in valuable handicap company.

Mirage Dancer caught the eye of plenty of good judges with victory on his only start at two.

The Sir Michael Stoute trained son of Frankel came with a powerful finish to beat Tafaakhor by ½ a length in a Doncaster maiden in late October.

He did not look as precocious as many of the other Frankel colts and will be patiently handled in the spring.

He holds a Derby entry but it would be questionable whether he would stay 1 ½ miles, being out of a Green Desert mare.

Swiss Storm is another Frankel colt to have made his mark as a juvenile and looks to have a bright future.

The David Elsworth trained colt ran green when finishing 4 lengths 7th of 10 behind Pennsylvania Dutch in a Haydock Park maiden at the start of September.

Just over a fortnight later he showed a powerful turn of foot to land a Newbury maiden by 1 ¾ lengths from City Of Joy. Swiss Storm is out of an Indian Ridge mare and should stay a mile well. He holds English and Irish Guineas entries but we have not seen enough of him yet to confirm whether he is up to that level.

Of all the Frankel colts to run during 2016, Monarchs Glen was arguably the one that most impressed us, along with Eminent.

The John Gosden colt is out of a Lear Fan mare and ran well on debut to finish a short head second of 10 to the vastly more experienced Celestial Spheres in a Goodwood maiden in late September.

He made no mistake on his return to the Sussex track in early October, winning a maiden over 9 furlongs by 1 ¼ lengths from stable mate Pealer, with the pair drawing a long way clear of their rivals.

Monarchs Glen has plenty of scope and ought to develop into a really nice middle distance performer next year.

Pealer was only seen out the once, when second to Monarchs Glen.

The son of Campanologist clearly has an abundance of ability, pulling clear of his other rivals at Goodwood and he holds a Derby entry.

We would expect to see him quickly lose his maiden tag and then head to a Derby trial if in good form in the spring.

Another Gosden juvenile to make his mark was Khalidi, who got better with experience.

The son of High Chaparral is out of Bezique, a daughter of Cape Cross, and will have plenty of stamina.

He ran 2 lengths third of 5 to Tamol on his debut at Newmarket in late June. A couple of weeks later he finished 2 ¾ lengths fourth of 11 to Dubai Hero in a maiden at the Newmarket July Festival.

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January 2017

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS Khalidi broke his maiden with a 2 ½ lengths defeat of Celestial Spheres in a Goodwood maiden in late August.

He then added a Doncaster nursery in early September, with a 1 ¼ length victory over Harbour Master.

It is questionable whether Khalidi is up to Group 1 class but he proved most progressive in 2016 and stamina should prove his forte next year.

Dubai Hero looked set for a promising season when winning on debut, but was only seen out once more.

The Saeed bin Suroor trained son of Dark Angel won what looked to be a hot Newmarket maiden in early July, beating D’bai by 1 ½ lengths on his debut.

Later that month he headed to Ascot for a Listed contest over 7 furlongs, but was a somewhat disappointing 3 ½ lengths 7th of 9 behind Apex King.

The fact that he wasn’t seen out again suggests that he may not have given his true running at Ascot and he holds Classic entries next year.

Summer ground clearly suited Dubai Hero from what we saw, but he must prove he has overcome whatever ailed him in the second half of the season.

Apex King was unable to strike a blow on his debut as he ran 10 lengths 7th of 12 behind Thunder Snow at Leicester in late May. However, Ed Dunlop’s son of Kodiac looked a different proposition as he beat Hyde Park by a neck in a Newmarket contest in June.

He progressed from that to land a Listed Ascot contest in late July that established him as a useful prospect, as he beat Monticello by a neck.

A month later Apex King finished 3 ¾ lengths fourth of 10 to the smart South Seas in the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown Park.

He was not seen out again but being out of a Rainbow Quest mare, we may not have seen the best of this colt until he races over further next season. He is well entered up in the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas and two Irish Classics.

Isomer put in performances full of promise on his first two starts before getting off the mark at the third time of asking.

The Andrew Balding trained son of Cape Blanco ran ¾ of a length second of 7 to Cunco in a Newbury maiden in midMay, with the first two pulling clear of their rivals.

He then finished ahead of that rival when an excellent ½ a length second of 13 to Churchill in the Listed Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.

Isomer broke his maiden tag at Salisbury in early July with a 2 lengths defeat of Harmonise.

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Towards the end of that month he contested the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood, but was a disappointing 5 ¾ lengths 6th of 9 behind War Decree.

Isomer was not seen out again in 2016 and it may well be that he did race up to his best at Goodwood. He holds a QIPCO 2,000 Guineas entry and was full value for that on what we saw in 2016, although it may be that 10 furlongs ultimately proves his best trip.

Atty Persse made plenty of headlines when winning his only start of the year.

The Roger Charlton trained son of Frankel beat Hamada by 1 ¾ lengths in a Sandown Park maiden in mid-September and was subsequently purchased by Godolphin.

He held an entry for the Racing Post Trophy but reportedly scoped badly and was roughed off for the year.

Atty Persse holds entries in the 2,000 Guineas and Derby but is still very much a raw talent and will need to gain more experience before tackling those targets, but is clearly held in high regard.

Dermot Weld enjoyed a memorable year thanks largely to the exploits of his dual Derby winner Harzand. He has a big gap to fill next season and Titus might just be one of the horses to help compensate.

This son of Dansili made a winning debut in a Leopardstown maiden in late October, beating Venice Beach by ½ a length.

He holds entries in the English and Irish Derbies and looks likely to line-up in a Classic trial in the spring.

Once again Richard Hannon has plenty of promising horses for 2017 and the once-raced Barney Roy looks an interesting prospect.

This son of Excelebration made an eye-catching debut when winning a Haydock Park maiden by 3 ¾ lengths from Fujaira Bridge in late September.

He is out of a Galileo mare and ought to stay 1 ¼ miles in time and should have the ability to win more races.

Crowned Eagle ran 4 lengths third to Barney Roy in that Haydock Park race on his debut.

The John Gosden trained son of Oasis Dream is out of Gull Wing, making him a half brother to Eagle Top and Wings Of Desire both of whom improved with time and both of whom also raced in the same Lady Bamford silks.

He finished 4 lengths third of 12 to Century Dream in a Nottingham maiden in early October, before getting off the mark with a 3 ¼ lengths victory over Zumurudee at the same venue in early November.

Unsurprisingly Crowned Eagle holds an entry for the

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW Investec Derby and it can easily be argued that what he accomplished at two was a bonus.

He should make up into a successful three year old and could well take a leading role among the middle distance colts.

Warrior’s Spirit built well on a nice introductory run to win his second start.

The Richard Hannon trained son of Requinto finished 6 lengths fourth of 8 to Mutawakked in a Newbury maiden in late July.

He was not seen out for nearly two months, returning to the Berkshire course to beat Crystal Ocean by a neck.

He does not hold any major entries for next year but should pay his way over 7 furlongs.

Many of Sir Michael Stoute’s juveniles are not fully wound up on debut so the performance of Crystal Ocean at Newbury was note worthy.

The son of Sea The Stars was not seen out again, but holds entries in the English and Irish Derbies in 2017.

It will be interesting to see if Sir Michael opts for a maiden or a Classic trial first time out for this colt.

HM The Queen’s colt Seniority looked a very interesting horse as he landed a Newmarket maiden on debut, but disappointed in his only subsequent start.

The William Haggas trained son of Dubawi is out of a Caerleon mare and ought to stay middle distances in time.

He got off the mark when beating Zefferino by ½ a length in early August, although the runner-up proved rather disappointing subsequently.

Seniority headed to the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown Park in late August, but was himself below par, coming home 9 ½ lengths last of 10 to South Seas.

He was not seen out again in 2016 and it may well be that he did not show his real form on that occasion.

He should come into his own over longer distances in 2017, assuming he returns to his best form.

Her Majesty will also be looking forward to seeing the once-race Frontispiece in action.

The Sir Michael Stoute trained son of Shamardal landed an Ascot maiden by a nose from Make Time in early September, with the runner-up going on to win a Salisbury maiden by 5 lengths afterwards.

Frontispiece has a Derby entry in 2017 although he is not guaranteed to stay. It would be no surprise to see him return to Berkshire for the Royal Meeting in June.

Elucidation is another Derby entry for Sir Michael Stoute.

This son of Oasis Dream has perhaps more solid staying credentials, with his dam a daughter of Silver Hawk.

He ran with real promise on debut to finish 1 ¾ lengths third of 10 to the useful Law And Order in a Newmarket maiden in late August.

In early September he got off the mark with a 1 ¾ lengths defeat of Sporting Times at Leicester.

With two runs under his belt, it would not be a surprise if he returned to action somewhere like Chester for one of the Derby trials.

Taamol looked an exciting prospect for Stoute when landing a Newmarket maiden on debut in late June, beating Devil’s Bridge by 1 ½ lengths.

The son of Helmet returned to action in a Listed contest at Doncaster in early September, running a little green when finishing 4 ¼ lengths fifth of 7 to Rodaini.

That was not a bad run and he holds a QIPCO 2,000 Guineas entry, although he will need to improve considerably there.

Adamant appeared in need of the run when a well beaten fourth of 8 to stable mate Elucidation at Leicester in early September.

The son of Dalakhani clearly learned plenty and a month later won a Windsor maiden by 1 ¼ lengths from Munawer.

He ought to be effective over middle distances last season and could well turn into a Royal Ascot contender.

Munawer went on to frank the form from Windsor with a 1 ¼ lengths victory over Royal Melody in a Wolverhampton maiden in mid-October.

The Hugo Palmer trained son of Dutch Art should be effective up to a mile next year.

Pivoine was another Stoute juvenile to win in 2016. The son of Redoute’s Choice is out of a Montjeu mare and should stay middle distances at three.

He ran 13 lengths third of 13 behind Via Egnatia in a Newmarket maiden in early October.

Later that month he impressed when beating Archer’s Arrow by 2 ½ lengths at Kempton Park.

He is another Stoute colt to hold a Derby entry, but was late starting out at two and it would not surprise to see the trainer take time with this prospect.

Karawaan could shape up into a useful horse in 2017, having run a promising if unspectacular race on his only start at two.

The Sir Michael Stoute trained son of Sea The Stars ran 2 ¾ lengths fifth of 9 to Solomon’s Bay in a Yarmouth maiden in mid-September, which often throws up useful horses.

He holds a Derby entry for next year but will need probably two runs to gain more experience and ascertain his ability.

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January 2017

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS Ekhtiyaar shaped well on debut and won his only other start.

The Roger Varian trained son of Bated Breath finished ¾ of a length second of 11 to Battered in a Yarmouth maiden in mid-September.

He returned to the Norfolk track the following month and recorded a smart performance to beat Secret Agent by 3 ½ lengths.

He could well be a longer term prospect and should be effective at 7 furlongs or a mile.

Baashiq was another to progress from his first start for Varian.

The son of New Approach finished a promising 2 ¾ lengths fourth of 11 to City Of Joy in a Redcar maiden at the beginning of October.

He returned there in the middle of the month and stepped up a furlong to a mile, beating Maghfoor by a head.

He holds an entry in the 2017 Investec Derby but that may come too soon given his inexperience. Baashiq is out of a Green Desert mare and 1 ¼ miles may ultimately prove his best trip.

Zabeel Prince had just the one start in 2016 but showed plenty of promise and should progress during 2017.

The Roger Varian trained son of Lope De Vega finished 1 ¼ lengths second of 8 to Glorious Poet in a Redcard maiden in late October.

He ought to pay his way with more experience.

Dhajeej showed enough ability in two starts to suggest he will win races in 2016.

The Roger Varian trained son of Cape Cross was 3 ½ lengths second of 9 to Wolf Country in a Yarmouth maiden in early October.

Later that month he ran ½ a length second of 10 to Tartini in a Nottingham maiden.

Dhajeej does not hold any Classic entries but ought to be able to build on those fine efforts and should stay 1 ¼ miles.

Bowerman was another Varian colt to show promise.

The son of Dutch Art ran just once, finishing a head second of 6 to Stradivarius in a Newcastle maiden in early November.

On the strength of that run he should be capable of winning in 2017.

Similarly Materialist finished ¾ of a length second of 8 to Trading Point on his only start in a Haydock Park maiden in October.

This son of Dansili, out of a King’s Best mare should be effective over a mile.

Glencadam Glory ran well on debut to finish ¾ of a length second of 5 to Ghayyar in a Newmarket maiden in August.

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The John Gosden trained son of Nathaniel improved for that run and won at Doncaster in early September, beating Hydroxide by a head.

He holds a Derby entry and if anything like his sire, will improve with time. He along with Crowned Eagle could be under the Derby radar at this point, but could well enter the Epsom picture in the spring.

Tartini was another unbeaten colt to represent John Gosden during 2016.

The son of Giant’s Causeway won a Nottingham maiden in late October by ½ a length from Dhajeej.

He is out of a Diesis mare and should stay 1 ½ miles in time.

Samharry will take an unbeaten record into 2017 for Gosden.

This son of Exceed And Excel was a Doncaster winner in late July, beating Total Star by 1 ½ lengths over 7 furlongs.

We did not see Samharry again, but the runner-up won twice during the course of the season.

He is out of a Peintre Celebre mare and could be anything.

Eldritch is another completely unexposed, unbeaten colt from the Gosden team.

The son of Dark Angel, out of a Cape Cross mare, beat Dubawi Prince by a length in a Haydock Park maiden in mid-October over a mile.

He should stay 1 ¼ miles and it will be interesting to see where he lies in the Clarehaven pecking order.

Gosden also has the once-raced Middle Kingdom to go to war with.

This son of War Front created a favourable impression when slamming Mukalal by 3 ½ lengths in a Newcastle maiden in late November.

Chessman was another late comer for Gosden who made a winning debut in a Kempton Park maiden in November, beating Esprit De Corps by an impressive 2 ¼ lengths.

The son of Acclamation should see out the mile well next year.

Weekender had just the one start, showing promise of much more with experience.

The John Gosden trained son of Frankel ran 3 lengths fourth of 8 to Trading Point in Haydock Park maiden in mid-October.

He is out of an Empire Maker mare and should stay the 12 furlongs of the Derby, for which he holds an entry. However, he will need to gain plenty of experience before then and if connections decide to go that route he will need the benefit of at least a couple of prior runs Face The Facts is another fascinating Gosden trained son

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January 2017

2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW of Nathaniel who ought to have tons of improvement and stamina in 2017.

He had just the one start as a two year old, running 1 ½ lengths second of 11 to Youmkin in a Nottingham maiden in late October.

Face The Facts holds a Derby entry and one would imagine will try to win an early season maiden before having a crack at a Derby trial.

Fierce Impact is a fascinating horse bidding to make a significant impact for the Japanese bloodstock industry in English racing.

This David Simcock trained son of Deep Impact holds an English Derby entry and victory there would be truly sensational.

He made a promising start to life when landing a Yarmouth maiden by 2 ¾ lengths from Casina Di Notte in early October.

Epsom is still a long way off but one would imagine connections will be keen to have a shot at a Derby trial in the spring.

Saeed bin Suroor’s yard suffered a dip in form in midsummer but sprang back to form later in the year, with plenty of unexposed and promising juveniles among the winners.

Kananee was a constant through the season, winning four of his five starts and proving a real talent.

The son of Exceed And Excel landed a Lingfield Park maiden by 1 ½ lengths from the useful Monks Stand in late April and followed-up at York in May, with a head defeat of the useful Medici Banchiere.

The following month he ran deplorably in the Listed Windsor Castle Stakes at Royal Ascot, finishing a tailed off last of 22 to Ardad. That was clearly not Kananee’s true ability.

He was off the course until November, returning on the Kempton Park all-weather to land a nursery by ¾ of a length from Mutahaady.

Just over a fortnight later he won an All-Weather Championships Fast-Track Qualifier at Newcastle by a neck from Sutter County.

Kananee has won from 5 to 7 furlongs and has the option of a run on Good Friday, but could just as easily make his mark in Meydan this winter.

Big Challenge was only seen once in 2016 but impressed.

The Saeed bin Suroor trained son of Sea The Stars won a Nottingham maiden in early November by 2 ¼ lengths from Melodic Motion.

He holds a Derby entry and one would imagine he will

have one or two more starts prior to lining up at Epsom.

Youmkin is another totally unexposed Godolphin colt who made a winning start to life with a 1 ½ lengths defeat of Face The Facts in a Nottingham maiden in late October.

The Saeed bin Suroor trained son of Street Cry is out of a Galileo mare and holds entries in the English and Irish Derbies.

Commander Cole showed promise on the turf, but really came into his own on the all-weather later in the year.

This son of Kyllachy finished 1 length second of 12 to Big Lachie at Sandown Park in early September. Later that month he was a disappointing 6th of 12 to Trick Of The Light in a Nottingham maiden.

In October he headed to Newcastle and ran out an emphatic 6 lengths winner from Re Run. He made it back to back wins on the all-weather at Wolverhampton in November, defeating Masham Star by 2 ¼ lengths in a nursery.

Commander Cole could well continue to excel on the all-weather surface this winter and be pointed at the AllWeather Championships.

Reach High will be forgotten by many, but was a smart early season representative for bin Suroor.

The son of Distorted Humor ran a head second of 9 to Hoyamy in a Doncaster maiden in late April.

The following month he got off the mark with a nose victory over the subsequent Mill Reef Stakes winner Harry Angel at Ascot.

He was not seen out again but holds a Derby entry. Clearly Reach High had issues that kept him off the track and he has yet to race beyond 5 furlongs. He has much to prove but showed plenty of potential in those two starts.

Bin Batutta is another colt whose season was curtailed after he had shown promise.

The son of Dubawi impressed on debut when landing a Windsor contest by 3 ¼ lengths from Sakurajima in early June.

A month later he contested the Group 2 Superlative Stakes over 7 furlongs at Newmarket, trailing in 16 lengths 7th of 9 to Boynton.

He was not seen out again and presumably something went amiss in that last run.

Bin Battuta should certainly not be dismissed on the basis of that run and holds a Derby entry. He may well prove a useful horse given clear health in 2017.

Leshlaa was very late getting started, but made a big impression on the all-weather.

The bin Suroor trained son of Street Cry ran ¾ of a length second of 8 to Giovanni Battista in a Newmarket maiden in late October.

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January 2017

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REVIEW 2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS In early November he won a Kempton Park maiden by 6 lengths from Titi Makfi.

Leshlaa is out of a Singspiel mare and should have plenty of stamina. He holds a Derby entry.

High Waves was not seen out until November, but the Saeed bin Suroor trained son of Dream Ahead made a winning debut with a ¾ of a length defeat of the more experienced Ejaaby at Chelmsford.

He should have plenty more improvement to come in 2017 at around a mile.

Tamleek shaped with promise on his only start of the year, finishing 2 ¼ lengths third of 9 to Fierce Impact in a Yarmouth maiden in October.

This son of Hard Spun will probably enjoy a fast surface and holds an entry in the Irish Derby.

Alaik may well have run in a very good maiden in his only run of 2016.

The bin Suroor trained son of New Approach finished 1 ¾ lengths third of 10 to Tartini in a Nottingham maiden in late October.

He holds a Derby entry but it would be no surprise to see him contest a maiden first time out.

Charlie Appleby also enjoyed plenty of two year old success during the 2016 campaign.

Wolf Country proved a progressive colt and looks to have an exciting future in 2017.

The Charlie Appleby trained son of Dubawi ran well on debut to finish 2 lengths 6th of 8 to Glencadam Glory in a Doncaster maiden in early September.

A month later he landed a Yarmouth maiden by an impressive 3 ½ lengths from Dhajeej.

He holds an Irish Derby entry and being out of a Black Sam Bellamy daughter ought to stay well next year. It would be no surprise to see Wolf Country take his chance at Royal Ascot.

First Nation was late getting started and ran 7 ½ lengths 6th of 9 to Red Label on his racecourse debut at Leicester in early October.

The Appleby trained son of Dubawi looked a very different proposition on his second start as he beat Wild Shot by 2 ¾ lengths in a Wolverhampton maiden a month later.

He holds a Derby entry and will need further development, but ought to stay the trip well if good enough to participate.

Rummani showed plenty of promise in his two starts without winning.

The son of Dubawi finished 1 ½ lengths second of 10 to Law And Order in a Newmarket maiden in late August.

He was not seen out again until October, when he finished

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3 ¾ lengths third of 13 to the smart Cape Byron in another Newmarket maiden.

Those runs suggest that he should be more than good enough to win during 2017 and he holds Guineas and Derby entries.

Radio Silence looked a useful recruit on debut.

The Jim Bolger trained son of War Front won at Leopardstown in early July, beating Pipes Of Peace by two lengths.

Nine days later, he ran a decent race for one so inexperienced, when finishing 3 lengths fourth of 6 to Peace Envoy in the Group 3 Angelsey Stakes at the Curragh.

In late August he ran well in the Group 2 Futurity Stakes at the Curragh, finishing 2 lengths second of 4 to Churchill.

He was disappointing on his final start, coming home 5 ½ lengths last of 5 to Landfall in a Leopardstown Group 3 in early September.

The fact that Bolger was willing to pitch Radio Silence into Group company so soon in his career, suggests that he has plenty of ability and is well thought of at Coolcullen. He holds entries in the English and Irish Guineas and it would be no surprise to see him contest a Guineas trial early in the season.

Holistic Approach had two contrasting experiences in his only runs of 2016.

The Jim Bolger trained son of New Approach got the better of the vastly more experienced Ice Canyon by ½ a length in a Curragh maiden in early October, with the very useful Spirit Of Valor back in third.

Two weeks later he was pitched into the Group 3 Killavullen Stakes at Leopardstown, but struggled, finishing a tailed off last of 7 to Making Light.

That race may have come too soon in the career of Holistic Approach and it may also be that he wants a mile in time and found the trip too short on that occasion.

Zorion was only seen on the racecourse once in 2016, but made a big impression.

The Bolger trained son of Smart Strike slammed Joy For Mary by 6 ½ lengths in a Roscommon maiden in midAugust, over 7 furlongs.

He holds entries in the English 2,000 Guineas and the Irish Derby and typically Bolger gives his Classic contenders a warm-up race in the spring.

Red Label proved a very promising colt in two starts in 2016.

The Luca Cumani trained son of Dubawi is out of a Caerleon mare and ought to stay middle distances well in 2017, suggesting that what he achieved at two was a bonus.

He finished 3 ¾ lengths third of 10 to Time Zone in a Newmarket maiden in late September.

In October he got off the mark in a Leicester maiden,

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2016 TWO YEAR OLD COLTS REVIEW beating X Rated by 1 ¼ lengths.

Red Label holds a Derby entry and if Cumani feels he is good enough, he is likely to start off in a Derby trial. Cumani’s two Derby winners both warmed up for Epsom at Lingfield Park and it would be no surprise to see this horse start his quest there.

Cumani has another interesting Derby prospect on his hands in the shape of Manangatang, who was not seen out until mid-November.

The son of Fastnet Rock is out of the Irish Oaks placed mare Mona Lisa and stamina will be his forte in 2017.

He made a winning debut when beating Cosmic Boy by a nose at Lingfield Park in mid-November over a mile. There should be a lot more to come from him.

It was a comparatively quiet year for Richard Hannon but towards the end of the campaign he unleashed a useful looking juvenile who should pay his way next year.

Medahim, a son of Kodiac made a winning debut at Kempton Park in early December, beating Saluti by 3 ¼ lengths.

He clearly had his issues during 2016 and could well make his mark up to a mile in 2017.

On the same card, Hannon unleashed another smart sort as Son Of The Stars defeated Opinionate by 3 ¼ lengths.

This son of the sadly recently lost Delegator should make up into a miler during 2017.

Mustarrid looked a classy gelding on the second of his two starts and was another Hannon runner who was late getting started.

The son of Elzaam finished 1 ¾ lengths third of 13 to Qatar Man in a Kempton Park maiden in mid-November.

In early December he looked to have progressed when landing a Wolverhampton maiden by an emphatic 5 lengths from Espresso Freddo.

Mustarrid could well make up into a useful horse up to a mile.

Mojito made a promising start to his racing career with two starts during 2016.

The William Haggas trained son of Requinto ran well on debut when 3 lengths third of 13 to Gulliver in a York maiden in early October.

Just under 3 weeks later he stepped up to a mile and won a Newcastle maiden by 2 ¼ lengths from Somnambulist.

We suspect that a mile will probably see Mojito at his best next season and he could be a horse for Royal Ascot.

Crushed has a very similar profile to his stable mate Mojito, having run a promising race on debut when 5 ¼ lengths fourth of 14 behind the very useful Raheen House in

a York maiden in early October.

He also headed to Newcastle later in October and won a maiden by 1 ½ lengths from Royal Icon.

Crushed is a son of Beat Hollow, out of a Salse mare. He should stay 1 ¼ miles and looks to have plenty of improvement in him.

Across Dubai is something of a dark horse, but made a winning debut for the yard.

The son of Cape Cross beat Dubai Horizon by a length in a Lingfield Park maiden in late October and holds a Derby entry.

Currency Converter was only see in action twice in 2016, but showed a good level of quality.

The Dermot Weld trained son of Exchange Rate landed a Leopardstown maiden on his debut in early June, beating Drake Passage by 2 ¼ lengths.

In late July he contested the Group 3 Tyros Stakes at the same track, finishing a highly creditable 2 ¼ lengths third of 6t to the year’s outstanding colt, Churchill.

We did not see Currency Converter again, but he ought to stay up to 1 ¼ miles on breeding.

Mark Johnston as always had a big team of juveniles, with Time To Study showing plenty of ability in three starts.

The son of Motivator was not seen out until early September, when he landed a Carlisle maiden by 2 ¾ lengths from Kuraka.

Two months later he ran well when 3 ½ lengths second of 5 to Good Omen in a Lingfield Park novice contest.

He got back to winning ways at Chelsmford just 5 days later, defeating Peaceful Passage by 2 ¼ lengths over 1 ¼ miles.

Time To Study could well prove a very useful colt and we would not be surprised to see him make his mark at Royal Ascot.

Love Dreams looked a very useful juvenile in two starts, but was not seen out after June.

The Mark Johnston trained son of Dream Ahead beat What’s The Story by 2 lengths at Hamilton Park in mid-June.

Twelve days later he bolted up in a Pontefract contest, slamming Bolt Phantom by 5 lengths.

He clearly had problems thereafter but should be capable of making his mark up to a mile.

Scots Piper made a very pleasing debut for the Johnston team and holds a Derby entry for 2017.

The son of Shamardal beat Black Redstart by 2 ¼ lengths in a Musselburgh maiden in late September. He will need to progress but should be open to lots of improvement.

We hope you have enjoyed this review of the 2016 two year old colts. Next month we will review the 2016 crop of two year old fillies.

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January 2017

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FEATURE HIPOTOUR

HIPOTOUR

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s the January cold bites, we thought readers would welcome a trip to the warmth of Spain this month, courtesy of La Zarzuela Racecourse, Madrid.

Course Specialist recently caught up with Claudine Cazalis, a jockey in Spain who also co-owns and operates the popular Hipotour at the racecourse. Claudine very kindly gave us an overview of Spanish racing and what the Hipotour involves.

If you happen to be headed to Madrid, please visit Hipotours.

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HIPOTOUR FEATURE

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF RACING IN SPAIN? The racing story in Spain started back in 1878 at the racecourse of La Castellana to celebrate the wedding of the king Alfonso XIIand Maria de la Mercedes. La Castellana is one of the most important roads in the centre of Madrid close to the famous football stadium called Santiago Bernabeu (Real Madrid´s stadium).

The “Hipódromo de La Castellana” was closed in 1933 to build the new ministry.

They decided to move the racecourse 10 minutes far away outside the centre of the city in the Mount Zarzuela owned by the National Heritage.

In 1934, the architect Carlos Arniche and Martin Dominguez with the collaboration of the civil engineer Eduardo Torroja, won the contest to build ”El Hipódromo de La Zarzuela”.

In 1935 they started the works but they had to stop because the civil war began in June 1936. It was left completely destroyed as the area of the racecourse was called the front of Madrid.

In 1940 they started work again, which was finished in 1941. In May of that year was the inauguration and the racecourse won the national prize of architecture.

In 1980 it was declared a Historic Artistic Monument.

Also, the racecourse of La Zarzuela has a unique stand.

HOW MANY RACETRACKS AND MEETINGS ARE THERE IN SPAIN? At present, there are only 3 racecourses functional but we have races on Sunday whole year.

The racecourse of La Zarzuela is the main one, there are 3 meetings.

The first one runs from February to June, with each starting on Sunday lunchtime from 11.00am to 3.00pm with about 7 races.

The second meeting takes place over two months in July and August on Thursday evenings, from 10.00pm to 12.30pm.

There are 5 races and when finished, the people can stay in the racecourse for music to 3am.

The third meeting takes place in the autumn, again on the lunch, 11.00am to 3.00pm with 7 races.

During the summer, when the race day is on Thursday night in Madrid, the races continue in the racecourse of Lasarte in San Sebastián, north of Spain.

Throughout the winter, when the races are finished in Madrid, they start in the racecourse of Seville, south of Spain. The race day is every Sunday on the lunch, 11.00am to 3.00pm with 7 races.

IS RACING A GROWING SPORT IN TERMS OF POPULARITY IN SPAIN? The Hipódromo de la Zarzuela has gone through years of glory, as in the Sixties, and years of crisis in the nineties.

After its closure in 1996 its facilities were modernized and since 2005 it holds an annual full season of racing activities.

Usually about 5,000 people attend the races every Sunday.

The largest attendance is 6,000 people which is normal for the most important prize in Madrid at the end of June, the El Gran Premio de Madrid, where the owner prize money for the winner is 50 000 euros.

WHEN WAS LA ZARZUELA RACECOURSE ESTABLISHED? In 1935 they start the works and they open in May 1941.

HOW MANY MEETINGS PER YEAR DOES THE RACECOURSE STAGE? 3 in Madrid,1 in Lasarte (close to San Sebastian), 1 in Seville.

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FEATURE HIPOTOUR

WHEN DOES THE SEASON RUN FROM? In Madrid the races don’t stop since February to November. In Lasarte, July to September. In Sevilla November to February.

WHAT ARE THE BIG RACES (AND WHAT GRADE)?

The most important race in Madrid is in the end on June, the Gran Premio de Madrid, 60 000 euros for the winning owner. The most important in Lasarte is La Copa de Oro with 50 000 euros for the winner. Both are classified as Listed races. We have another three Listed races, one more in San Sebastián and two more in Madrid.

HOW MANY PEOPLE DOES LA ZARZUELA HOLD? 6,000 people

ARE TRAINERS BASED ON THE RACETRACK ALL YEAR ROUND? Yes, 28 trainers are based in La Zarzuela all year around with 157 owners. There are about 50 jockeys.

The racecourse has 48 stables with 873 boxes available but only 400 taken.

WHERE IS LA ZARZUELA LOCATED? La Zarzuela is located just ten minutes from the centre of Madrid.

The address is: Avenida Padre Huidobro s/n, A-6, kilometro 8, 28023 Madrid Every Sunday a free bus operates from Moncloa (the centre of Madrid) to the racecourse.

HOW MANY EMPLOYEES ARE LOCATED AT THE TRACK? There are about 250 lads, 15 veterinary, 5 ferrers, 3 dentists…

At the office there are almost 35 people, maintenance team almost 25 people.

The racecourse of La Zarzuela S. A. has a staff of 30 workers distributed among the different departments (Administration, Finance, Human Resources, General Secretariat, Legal, Marketing, Business & Careers).

In addition, this company has hired another company to perform maintenance work around the racecourse grounds (108 hectares), including the training center and the racecourse. The company has earmarked about 25 workers for these functions (gardening, tennis, works, repairs, electricity, plumbing, etc ...)

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HIPOTOUR FEATURE HOW BIG IS THE TRACK ROUND? IS IT JUST DIRT/ ALL-WEATHER OR TURF? The surface of the racecourse is 110 hectares.

There are 5 tracks, 4 for the gallop and 1 for the trot.

Outside to inside: • The grass, track for the races. Distance: 1 mile x 35 meters.

• The all weather for the training day and races on the summer. Distance: 7 furlong 1500m x22m • The dirt, deepertrack for only training. Distance: 7 furlongs x 12m • The mount track for easy training. Distance 1 mile x 10m • The track for the trot is1 furlong and a half (300m) • TELL ME ABOUT THE HIPOTOUR, WHEN DID THESE START? Hipotour is a company created by Isabel Vaquero and Claudine Cazalis. Isabel was one of the first female professional jockeys in Spain and she has worked at the racecourse over 25 years.

Claudine trained as a jockey in France; she has been a jockey for 10 years, mainly in Spain. Both are still exercice riders.

Hipotour was created in May 2014 with the objective of share a passion for the world of the racehorses.

HOW MUCH DOES THE TOUR COST? The price for the Race Day is 12.-€ per person with the ticket even at the price. The price for the training day goes from 10€ per person for groups up to 30.€ for a private visit, it depends on the number of people.

WHAT DOES A HIPOTOUR INVOLVE? WHAT WILL A VISITOR SEE? The stages of the visit on a training day are: • Discover the horses training in the track from the stand while the guide give information about the story of the races in Spain, the structure of the racecourse, the life of the horseracing..,etc.

• Visit the jockey’s room, paddock, VIP owner zone • Go the a stable to take pictures, give carrot to the horses and meet the people working(trainer,lads,vet,jockey,ferrer…etc) • Come back to the stand where there are a nice museum with all the staff about the races and the visitor can dress up a jockey color to take pictures in the paddock of winner.

The stages of the visit on a race day are: • Historical data of Zarzuela’s racecourse, instructions to understand therace card and how to bet!

• Visit to the Jockey’s room where the group has the opportunity to meet and take a picture with jockeys which compete in this race day • Entrance to exclusive area of the racecourse, the paddock, where only owner,trainer,jockey use to have access. Privileged place to see the horse before the race to choose which one bet.

• Finish the tour betting and watching the race together.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES IN SPANISH RACING? The main challenge in Spain is all about the bet. You can bet on the races only in the racecourse. It is true that recently we can bet with a private bookmaker such as the Sportium or Paddy Power, but this is only possible in Madrid. So the big challenge for the races in Spain is try to get the “PMU”as in France.

WHAT IS THE FUTURE FOR LA ZARZUELA? WHAT ARE THE BIG PLANS FOR 2017?

Looking ahead to 2017 the Hippodrome de La Zarzuela plans to offer 36 days of racing, with 217 races in total and 3.5 million endowment awards.

It will also begin to start up a specific plan of bonuses to horses born and bred in Spain.

After all of the actions undertaken in 2016 to mark the 75th anniversary (completion of the racecourse with the construction of the pelouse, opening Torroja museum, etc) for 2017 actions will focus on the race and the progressive restoration of stables and roads.

For more information on La Zarzuela and the Hipotours, please visit: www.hipotour.com

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January 2017

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FEATURE JAMIE SNOWDEN

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JAMIE SNOWDEN FEATURE

JAMIE SNOWDEN

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n recent seasons a number of young trainers have emerged on the National Hunt scene to build stables capable of challenging for major honours at the big Festivals.

In Lambourn, Jamie Snowden has made his mark, initially thanks to the exploits of Cheltenham Festival winner Present View, and subsequently with an exciting team of young horses.

Jamie, in partnership with neighbour Harry Dunlop, recently launched a new racehorse syndication club called ‘The Best Of Both Worlds Partnership’, which offers owners the chance to own horses both on the flat and over the jumps.

We recently caught up with Jamie to look at his career so far: WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN TRAINING RACEHORSES? I began riding out for John Dufosee (a local point to point trainer) in Dorset when I was 14 years old, and after being run away with a few times I thought I wanted to be a jockey!

After race riding for a few years, I soon knew I wanted to train at some point in the future, and I just had to work out which way my ‘route in’ would be.

Whilst at Radley College, I rode out for Nigel TwistonDavies, and during my gap year I worked as an Assistant Trainer for a flat yard in New Zealand. I continued to work ride for many trainers while at Newcastle University including Sue Smith and Chris Grant. After commissioning from Sandhurst into the Kings Royal Hussars, I continued to race ride and during my Army career I even spent a season as pupil assistant for champion trainer Paul Nicholls. On leaving the army I worked for three seasons as assistant trainer and amateur jockey for Nicky Henderson before I branched out on my own in 2008.

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FEATURE JAMIE SNOWDEN TELL ME ABOUT YOUR CAREER IN THE SADDLE I started slowly but progressed to achieve around sixty pointing wins and a further forty winners under rules which included four triumphs in the Grand Military Gold Cup and a further four in the Royal Artillery Gold Cup. However, my proudest moment in the saddle came when I carried the Queen’s colours to victory on First Love in a race at Sandown in 2006 run in memory of her mother, and I was lucky enough to have another couple of winners in her colours. The closest I came to riding a Cheltenham Festival winner was when I fell at the last when clear, and ended up in Cheltenham General Hospital as opposed the hallowed winners enclosure!

WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO TAKE OUT A TRAINER’S LICENCE IN 2008 AND HOW MANY HORSES DID YOU HAVE THAT FIRST SEASON? I always wanted to train, but it’s always a hard moment to leave the security of an assistants job... I started with one member of staff and one horse. The member of staff is still here today and is awesome, the horse turned out to be useless!

HOW DID THE STABLE GROW? GRADUALLY? ORGANICALLY – OR WHERE THERE ANY QUANTUM LEAPS? The first few seasons were pretty slow, a bit like my riding career, but then we moved to Lambourn in 2011 and our first runner from Folly House won the Summer National and we had our first Cheltenham winner that autumn.

Things then began to build relatively quickly for us and after having a winner at the Cheltenham Festival in 2014 our numbers grew further and we’re now in a lucky position to train 40 horses and have Royal Patronage with a horse in training for HRH The Duchess of Cornwall.

HOW MANY HORSES DO YOU TRAIN TODAY? WHAT DO YOU FEEL S THE MOST MANAGEABLE NUMBER TO TRAIN? 40. I’d love to have 75 in full training.

WHAT FACILITIES DO YOU HAVE AT FOLLY HOUSE? We have all the necessities here and use the extensive Jockey Club gallops. So we have any number of grass gallops, all weather gallops, jumping rings, schooling grounds, swimming pools, water treadmills, lunging rings, walkers...

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WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE YARD AND HAVE YOU MADE MANY UPGRADES? Looks Like Trouble was trained to win the Gold Cup from the same box as where Present View won at the Festival for us!

When we moved in to Folly House in 2011 there were 25 boxes and now we have near on 50. We have plans to expand further, with staff cottages and more.

WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS YOU LEARNT FROM YOUR TIME WITH PAUL NICHOLLS AND NICKY HENDERSON? Patience, patience and more patience. Never try to push a horse harder than it will go, let them tell you when they are ready.

WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR APPROACH TO TRAINING AS HOLISTIC OR SCIENTIFIC? Training racehorses in an art, but you need the science to help you as well – a happy medium is needed.

HAVE YOU CHANGED YOUR TRAINING METHODS VERY MUCH SINCE YOU FIRST STARTED OUT? WHAT HAVE BEEN THE MOST INSIGHTFUL THINGS YOU HAVE LEARNT “ON THE JOB”?

Of course you adapt, learn and change as you go... however, my basic training methods haven’t changed a great deal.

HOW IMPORTANT ARE PEOPLE SKILLS? Hugely. Whether its owners, press, staff... people skills are all important.

HOW DOES YOUR TIME SPLIT BETWEEN OFFICE WORK AND TRAINING/GALLOPS TIME? Tricky to split the two really. My office is pretty much the mobile phone which is with me on the gallops, on the road, at the racecourse and in the office.

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JAMIE SNOWDEN FEATURE HOW CHALLENGING IS IT AS A MODERN TRAINER TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WORK/LIFE BALANCE, PARTICULARLY WITH A YOUNG FAMILY? It is tricky as training horses is more than a job (it’s a passion, a way of life) and its 24/7, 365 days of the year. So balancing work with family life isn’t easy, but luckily the family are all in love with the game as well!

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR BEST DAYS OF RACING? Without a shadow of a doubt – having a winner at the Cheltenham Festival!

WHAT DID PRESENT VIEW’S CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL WIN DO FOR THE STABLE? We had about 20 horses that season and have 40 horses now.

PRESENT VIEW’S LOSS WAS OF COURSE A HUGE BLOW TO THE YARD, HOW MUCH RESPONSIBILITY DID YOU TAKE FOR KEEPING THE TEAM’S SPIRITS UP AND MOTIVATION THAT IT IS BUSINESS AS USUAL? It was a huge blow. Seriously talented horses are so hard to come by, and we were lucky to have him. The whole team was shaken to lose him, but we have to remember that he at least achieved great things. There are plenty of talented horses that don’t ever get to achieve what they can and when you lose them, that is equally tough to take... it’s not easy.

DO YOU SET YOURSELF SEASONAL TARGETS? IF SO, WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN HOPES AND AIMS FOR 2016/17?

I don’t reveal my targets openly... but another Festival winner is high on the wish list!

2016 HAS STARTED VERY WELL; WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE THAT SUCCESS TO? We have had a great start to the season, however I don’t attribute that to anything but hard work!

TELL ME ABOUT THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS INITIATIVE, WHOSE IDEA THIS WAS, WHAT IT INVOLVES AND WHAT OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC? The Best of Both Worlds Partnership has one flat horse in training with Harry Dunlop and one jumps horse in training with us. There are ten shares in the partnership with a £7000 buy in cost, and £6000 one off cost for the season until 31 October 2017 for training fees and associated costs.

Both horses will have a sales entry for Autumn 2017 Our jumps horse –Lord Topper: 2013 bay gelding Sir Percy – Fugnina – a winner on the flat over 1m5 on only his third run - an exciting juvenile hurdle prospect.

Our flat horse – unnamed 2015 chesnut colt Casamento – Emreliya - a half-brother to two black type horses who have proved themselves to be racy 2 year old types.

It is a rare opportunity to have two horses in training in Lambourn with Group 1 winning and Cheltenham Festival winning trainers, and enjoy being involved in both the flat and the jumps. Enjoy the best of both worlds.

WHICH HORSES IN PARTICULAR ARE EXCITING YOU AT PRESENT AND WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THEM? We have a plethora of exciting youngsters in the yard.

How could I narrow down the list...?!

HOW CAN PEOPLE FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BEST OF BOTH WORLDS AND JAMIE SNOWDEN? For more details about The Best of Both Worlds please call Lucy on 07879 813 439 or email lucy@gmgfranks.com Or visit www.jamiesnowdenracing.co.uk

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BIG RACE HISTORY SODEXO CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE

© Steven Cargill

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SODEXO CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE BIG RACE HISTORY

BIG RACE HISTORY Sodexo Clarence House Chase

F

ormerly known as the Victor Chandler Chase, this 2 mile 1 furlong signature chase gives the month of January some real impetus and began life in 1989 with a renewal that still stirs the pulse.

That first renewal saw a dramatic and titanic finish between the popular Panto Prince and the legendary Desert Orchid. For those that saw the race, the memory of Sir Peter O’Sullevan’s commentary still ring in the ears “and Dessie’s fighting back like a tiger” – and so he did.

In fact, Desert Orchid was giving the very smart Panto Prince a stone and 8 pounds and the younger horse looked to have got the better of the dual from the last before Dessie’s competitive attitude kicked in.

© www.healyracing.ie

Another almost white horse won the race two years later as Blitzkreig provided the first Irish trained winner of the race in a classy renewal which saw Desert Orchid again carrying 12 stone and trying to give lumps of weight to the winner, Katabatic, Young Snugfit and Hogmanay.

In 1992 the race went to that popular chestnut Waterloo Boy who beat Young Snugfit and the following year, Young Snugfit was in the field, along with Blitzkreig, as Sybillin beat future Champion Chase winner Deep Sensation, providing trainer Jimmy FitzGerald with a second winner of the race following Meikleour in 1990.

By 1994 the race was firmly established as one of the first really big races of the year and a real Cheltenham Festival pointer. Bad weather meant that Ascot was unable to stage the race that year and Viking Flagship – who would go on to win the Champion Chase in March, galloped to victory in a rescheduled race at Warwick.

Nicky Henderson has to date won the race on four separate occasions – the first of these victories was delivered by Big Matt in 1996, while the following year, Ask Tom provided another winner for the north in a race run at Kempton Park, following another Ascot abandonment.

Arthur Moore’s Jeffell became the second Irish-trained winner in 1998 before Call Equiname won the race en-route to Queen Mother Champion Chase glory in 1999. His win (again at Kempton Park) was the first of four to date for Paul Nicholls. The following year, Nicholls saddled Arkle Chase winner Flagship Uberalles who failed to give a stone and 10 pounds to the progressive Nordance Prince in a classy renewal that included Celibate and Direct Route.

The progressive mare Function Dream won the 2001 renewal just before the Foot and Mouth outbreak brought racing in Britain to a standstill and in 2002 Turgeonev won the race for Tim Easterby, continuing the excellent record of northern-trained horses. Sadly the following year the race failed to beat the elements.

The 2004 renewal revived memories of Flagship Uberalles’s fine weight carrying effort as Nicky Henderson’s

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BIG RACE HISTORY SODEXO CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE Isio just repelled the efforts of Azertyioup carrying 11 stone 10 pounds, but the latter would go on to win a Champion Chase a couple of months later.

In 2005 Well Chief, an Arkle Chase winner the year before, managed to carry that same weight to victory in a race staged at Cheltenham and the following year Tysou recorded a career best effort as the race was run at Sandown Park. Bad weather yet again claimed the race in 2007 but at that time, the Victor Chandler Chase gained Grade 1 status and became a level weights race.

© Toby Connors

David Pipe, who had trained Well Chief, improved his record in the race in 2008, when the improving Tamarinbleu – a recent Cheltenham winner, beat the odds on favourite Twist Magic. The latter was a very smart Paul Nicholls horse who won two Tingle Creeks and added a Victor Chandler Chase to his CV in 2010, sandwiching two victories in the race for his very smart stable mate Master Minded, who of course won two Champion Chases as well.

2012 saw the 25th anniversary of the race and a fitting renewal stacked with top class horses. The level weights race was won by Somersby who beat subsequent Champion Chase winner Finian’s Rainbow and the smart novice chaser Al Ferof. The year before, Somersby had been defeated by just a short head by Master Minded.

In 2013 bad weather saw the race re-routed to Cheltenham’s Trials Day at the end of January. Racing against the spectacular backdrop of a snowy Cotswolds, the race was dominated by Sprinter Sacre as the heir to the two mile crown put in a faultless round to leave Mad Moose and Somersby toiling in his wake.

With Sprinter Sacre sidelined in 2014, there was a new star in town, as Sire De Grugy brilliantly beat Hidden Cyclone before going on to Queen Mother Champion Chase glory.

A year on and yet another future champion emerged from this race as Dodging Bullets beat the returning Sprinter Sacre at Ascot, before going on the Champion Chase success a few weeks later at Cheltenham.

In 2016 the race went the way of Ireland for the first time since 1998, as the brilliant Un De Sceaux put up an immaculate performance to beat former Champion Chase winner Sire De Grugy by five lengths. The Willie Mullins horse would later in the year record victories in France and in the Tingle Creek Chase.

CLARENCE HOUSE CHASE PAST WINNERS 1987–88 no race 1989 Desert Orchid 1990 Meikleour 1991 Blitzkreig 1992 Waterloo Boy 1993 Sybillin 1994 Viking Flagship 1995 Martha’s Son 1996 Big Matt 1997 Ask Tom

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1998 Jeffell 1999 Call Equiname 2000 Nordance Prince 2001 Function Dream 2002 Turgeonev 2003 no race 2004 Isio 2005 Well Chief 2006 Tysou 2007 no race course-specialist.co.uk

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2008 Tamarinbleu 2009 Master Minded 2010 Twist Magic 2011 Master Minded 2012 Somersby 2013 Sprinter Sacre 2014 Sire De Grugy 2015 Dodging Bullets 2016 Un De Sceaux

January 2016

Get involved in the sport you love... at an affordable price you’ll love too!

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New for 2017!

Your chance to own a part of the following exciting prospects: 2015 c Poets Voice x Passata 2015 c Le Havre x Ballerina Blue 2015 c Sepoy x Kotsi 2015 c Intello x Linea 2015 c Tough As Nails x Remediate 2015 f Sepoy x Cynthia Calhoun

TITANIUM RACING

TITANIUM RACING offers a fresh approach to racehorse ownership: • Affordable monthly fees with no fixed term; • New owners welcome at any time during the year; • Membership portions (units) available in the entire club; • Raceday badges; • Open days to stables; • Prize money (allocated on contributions made)

Interested? Please email: info@titanium-racing.co.uk www.titanium-racing.co.uk

© Image supplied by John Dance / Copyright John Grossick

PEARL SECRET

THE STORY OF A NEW STALLION

P

earl Secret truly made his mark on the racecourse as a popular, flashy sprinter, who gained a regular following as he returned to the racecourse year after year.

The seven year old was a winner at two, three, five and six years of age, landing major prizes along the way, including the Listed Scurry Stakes and Listed Beverley Bullet Stakes in 2012 and the Group 2 Temple Stakes in 2014.

He was also third to Sole Power in the 2013 Group 1 King’s Stand Stakes, and second to Hot Streak in the following year’s Group 2 Temple Stakes.

Nancy Sexton, renowned bloodstock writer for the Racing Post, described his appeal very well:

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© Image supplied by John Dance •

January 2017

PEARL SECRET FEATURE

“

This is a pedigree that shouts speed top to bottom. He represents access to the fast branch of the Indian Ridge sire line, of which he is physically typical, via Compton Place, a tremendous recent ally of breeders who has long been respected by trainers.

– NANCY SEXTON

WHAT WAS THE PROCESS ONCE YOU HAD WON THE AUCTION FOR PEARL SECRET AND WHERE DID HE HEAD TO INITIALLY? “Dan Creighton of Salcey Forest Stud signed the sales docket and the horse headed to Salcey Forest once Tattersalls had taken blood samples for testing.”

WHERE IS PEARL SECRET NOW LOCATED? “Pearl Secret is now residing at Bucklands Farm & Stud in Gloucestershire where he will stand as a stallion.”

“

“From a sire line renowned for producing classy sprinters, Pearl Secret is a member of the same hardy family that provided Dutch Art, now a multiple G1 producing sire.

“This is a pedigree that shouts speed top to bottom. He represents access to the fast branch of the Indian Ridge sire line, of which he is physically typical, via Compton Place, a tremendous recent ally of breeders who has long been respected by trainers. Added to that, he is out of a tough 5f stakes-winning granddaughter of Miswaki, a horse who features as the damsire of a number of successful stallions including Galileo, Sea The Stars, Dalakhani and The Factor, a G1-producing American first-crop sire of 2016.”

The son of July Cup winner and subsequent hugely successful stallion, Compton Place, went through the sales ring at Tattersalls Autumn Horses In Training Sale in October 2016, when he was purchased by Salcey Forest Stud.

Course Specialist recently caught up with John Dance, part of the group that purchased Pearl Secret, to find out what happened next and how he has settled in to a new way of life at Bucklands Farm and Stud in Gloucestershire.

WHAT TEMPTED YOU TO BUY PEARL SECRET AT TATTERSALLS? “Collectively* we had been interested in buying a stallion for a while and as soon as we saw Pearl Secret in the catalogue we were interested as he really stood out for us. He was a wonderful racer that won on debut as a juvenile but who also proved absolutely top draw as an older horse too and hence really appealed as a genuine all round stallion prospect. *Myself, Salcey Forest Stud and Matt Eves (formerly the majority owner of the classic winning Jet Setting)

© Image supplied by John Dance

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE HIM TO SETTLE IN? DOES HE HAVE ANY QUIRKS? “He settled in very quickly which isn’t surprising as he is a great tempered horse, he hasn’t shown any quirks as yet but is very much his own person.”

WHAT MEDICAL TESTS HAVE BEEN CARRIED OUT? “He has been tested to prove his fertility and thankfully is fully active in that respect.

“Stallions have to have bloods and swabs taken in the January of a covering season to ensure they are healthy and clean. We took the precaution of conducting these as soon as he arrived at BFS so that any issues could be treated and resolved with plenty of time in hand and we are delighted he is now ready to go.”

HOW HAS HIS DIET CHANGED? “Well he would previously have been on a high energy race feed diet, but his new stud diet contains more grass as he is turned out every day and is now also on stud nuts, of which he is clearly a fan as he is described as being ‘a very healthy grubber’.”

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FEATURE PEARL SECRET

© Image supplied by John Dance / Copyright John Grossick

DID HE HAVE TO BE OFFICIALLY REGISTERED ANYWHERE AS A STALLION? IF SO, WHERE? “He has to be registered with Weatherbys, who thankfully are very efficient at the process and we are lucky in the UK to have such an operation behind the scenes of both racing and thoroughbred breeding.”

HOW MUCH WILL PEARL SECRET STAND FOR IN 2017? HOW DID YOU ARRIVE AT THIS COST? “£4,000. Looking at the overall market we felt this pitched him as being an absolute stand out stallion in this price range, based upon his pedigree, longevity and achievements on the track. As a first season sire this makes him very attractive to breeders.”

HOW MANY MARES DO YOU HOPE HE WILL COVER IN 2017?

“We hope to cover over 80 mares in 2017; however, if he is especially popular, we would likely cap his maximum as we are conscious of over-breeding in the industry and over usage of first season sires.”

WHAT FOR YOU ARE PEARL SECRET’S GREATEST ATTRIBUTES? “He has fantastic conformation and is a great physical specimen, he won and contested top class races at all ages from 2 to 7, he was tough, incredibly speedy and proved his durability; and those attributes should make him a very commercial sire.

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© Image supplied by John Dance

“We believe Pearl Secret is the natural successor to his sire Compton Place, who sadly passed away this year, and that he will be especially interesting to breeders who had success with the latter.

We will be offering breeders a variety of bonuses for winning and will naturally be supporting his progeny in the sales ring.

HOW AND WHERE CAN INTERESTED BREEDERS FIND OUT MORE REGARDING PEARL SECRET? Contact Dan Creighton of Salcey Forest Stud on 07597 945219 or Roisin Close of Bucklands Farm & Stud on 07739 279071 www.pearlsecret.com www.bucklandsfarmandstud.co.uk

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January 2017

PEARL SECRET... A SPARKLING ADDITION FOR 2017

£4,000 (1st OCTOBER, LFFR) Breeders’ Bonus; £5,000 First Winner £10,000 First Listed Winner £15,000 First Group Winner Progeny will be supported in the sales ring

“Classy sprinter at 2-6, won Temple Stakes, from family of Dutch Art; enters stud 2017” – Racing Post Bloodstock

From the family of Indian Ridge, a proven sprint pedigree and proven class on the race track:

“He was the quickest and toughest horse that I’ve ever trained, and with a bit more luck he would have won the Group 1 he so richly deserved. I look forward to training his offspring.”

– David Barron, Trainer

• Winner of the Listed Scurry Stakes, Listed Beverley Bullet Stakes (beating Mirza, Line Of Reason, Kingsgate Native), Group 2 Temple Stakes (beating Jack Dexter, Danzeno, Hot Streak, Kingsgate Native, Goldream, G Force, Take Cover) • Third to Sole Power in the Group 1 King’s Stand Stakes, second to Hot Streak in the Group 2 Temple Stakes • Pearl Secret won aged two, three five and six!

“He is the natural successor to Compton Place and offers a great option to breeders who previously supported Compton Place and had success with him” – Roisin Close, Bucklands Farm and Stud

By July Cup (Grp1) winner COMPTON PLACE, out of six-times winning sprinter and Listed City Wall Stakes winner OUR LITTLE SECRET

Standing at: Bucklands Farm & Stud, Oridge Street, Corse, Glos. GL19 3DA Contact: Daniel Creighton +44 (0)7597 945219 or Roisin Close +44 (0)7738 279071 www.pearlsecret.com www.bucklandsfarmandstud.co.uk

NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES

© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ltd

THE MINIVER ROSE TOPS OPENING DAY OF TATTERSALLS DECEMBER MARE SALE The opening day of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale got off to a buoyant start with a clearance rate of 84% and THE MINIVER ROSE topping proceedings at 550,000 guineas. A total of 205 lots were sold for 11,521,000 guineas at an average of 56,200 guineas and a median of 40,000 guineas, figures that are on a par with the opening session of last year’s sale.

One of the most in demand stallions in the world at the moment is Sheikh Mohammed Obaid’s DUBAWI who stands at Dalham Hall Stud in Newmarket and so there was always going to be plenty of interest in the Group winning mare THE MINIVER ROSE who was offered as part of the Godolphin consignment. A winner of the Group 2 Park Hill Stakes as a three-year-old, the daughter of HIGH CHAPARRAL is a half-sister to Group 2 Blandford Stakes winner BELLE DE CRECY. The daughter of the CAPE CROSS mare BLOEMFONTAIN was knocked down to Blandford Bloodstock’s Richard Brown for 550,000 guineas after he saw off David Redvers, standing alongside Sheikh Fahad.

“She is a great moving, quality mare and a very good racemare,” said Brown, “but what was massively appealing was her cover to Dubawi. In my opinion, he is one of the top two stallions in the world.

“My client has tried to get into Dubawi before with limited success, it is a rare opportunity.”

The Tattersalls December Sale always attracts a diverse range of buyers from all over the world

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and one nationality present in large numbers are the Australians. They include the Arrowfield Stud team of Paul Messara and Jon Freyer who secured PHYLLIS MAUD for 360,000 guineas. The daughter of HALLING and the ANABAA mare DEBONNAIRE is a half-sister to HARTNELL, arguably Australia’s second best horse at the moment. The dual Group 1 winner was second to the wonder mare WINX in the Group 1 Cox Plate two starts back before running third in the Group 1 Melbourne Cup. She is also a half-sister to ROZ, the Group 1 Fillies’ Mile runner-up.

“It is a little while since we have bought here,” reported Messara, “but she is an obvious one for us to buy.

“She was a good mare herself, and she’ll stay here to foal. We’ll probably cover on southern hemisphere time.”

PHYLLIS MAUD was offered by Godolphin with a SHAMARDAL cover, whilst her FRANKEL foal half-brother sold for 250,000 guineas at the December Foal Sale here last week.

The consignment from Godolphin realised 4,408,000 guineas for the 59 lots offered.

DAM OF HARZAND SELLS FOR 2 MILLION GUINEAS AT TATTERSALLS DECEMBER SALE The second day of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale was, as ever, a truly international affair with buyers from four continents represented by the top ten lots. The headline act of the day was HAZARIYA, the dam of HARZAND, topping proceedings at 2 million guineas. A total of 186 lots sold for 25,512,500 guineas with an average of 137,164 guineas and median of 60,000 guineas.

The star of the show on Tuesday of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale was the dam of this year’s dual Derby winner HARZAND. A packed sales ring turned out to see HAZARIYA, in foal to INVINCIBLE SPIRIT, knocked down to MV Magnier, standing with Michael Jooste of South African-based Mayfair Speculators, for 2 million guineas.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS The Newsells Park Stud offering was herself a good race filly winning the Group 3 Athasi Stakes at The Curragh before retiring to stud where she has produced five winners including Listed Finale Stakes winner HAZARAFA, Group 3 Silver Flash Stakes winner HARASIYA and of course Group 1 Epsom and Irish Derby winner Harzand.

The half-sister to American wonder mare ZENYATTA was another to top a million guineas on the second day of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale. US-bred EBLOUISSANTE in foal to DANSILI will be heading back to her country of birth having been bought by Jane Lyon of Kentuckybased Summer Wind Farm.

old daughter of Ballylinch resident LAWMAN raced in France where she won the Listed Prix La Sorellina and was placed three times in Group company.

Offered by Highclere Stud on behalf of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, Chartreuse holds a Timeform rating of 109.

JACK NAYLOR was another highlight on the second day and made 800,000 guineas when knocked down to James Wigan of London Thoroughbred Services.

Under the guidance of Irish-based trainer Jessica Harrington, the four-year-old daughter of CHAMPS ELYSEES won the Group 3 Silver Flash Stakes at two and became a consistent Group 1 performer as a three-year-old, finishing second to COVERT LOVE in the Irish Oaks.

DAUGHTER OF BANKS HILL TOPS DAY 3 OF THE DECEMBER MARE SALE

© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ltd

Consigned by The National Stud, the wellrelated seven-year-old mare is a half-sister to triple Grade 1 winner BALANCE in addition to ZENYATTA who won an incredible 19 out of 20 starts during her race career which included a tally of seven Grade 1s.

The third highest price of the day was achieved

by IRISH ROOKIE when knocked down to Haras de Saint-Pair’s Andreas Putsch for 935,000 guineas. Timeform rated 111, the Listed winning four-year-old daughter of AZAMOUR was second to ERVEDYA in the Group 1 Prix Poule d’Essai des Pouliches at Longchamp and third to ESOTERIQUE in the Group 1 Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket.

Offered for sale by Martyn Meade’s Sefton Lodge Stables, IRISH ROOKIE is from the Group 1 winning Juddmonte family of ZAFONIC and ZAMINDAR. Late in the evening, Listed winning filly CHARTREUSE was bought by John O’Connor of Ballylinch Stud for 825,000 guineas. The three-year-

Juddmonte Farms’ REPLETE topped the third day of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale at 775,000 guineas and in the process took Tattersalls’ annual turnover into unchartered territory, breaking the previous turnover record set in 2014. The third day saw a total of 184 lots realise 7,159,200 guineas at an average of 38,909 guineas and a median of 18,000 guineas. With one day of the Tattersalls year to go, annual turnover now sits just below 265 million guineas, 1.5 million guineas ahead of the previous record.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES The Juddmonte dispersal on the third day of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale proved, as ever, to be a highlight with REPLETE topping proceedings at 775,000 guineas. A lively bidding exchange was kicked-off by US-based agent Justin Casse and involved Australian Jon Freyer of Arrowfield as well as US-breeder Greg Goodman of Mount Brillliant Farm but it was Amanda Skiffington who ultimately came out on top.

The regally bred filly is out of the Champion European filly BANKS HILL whose victories included the Grade 1 Breeders Cup Filly & Mare Turf, the Group 1 Coronation Stakes and the Group 1 Prix Jacques Le Marois. She is also a sister to a stellar cast of Group 1 performers including INTERCONTINENTAL, CACIQUE, CHAMPS ELYSEES, DANSILI and DELUXE. REPLETE, by the 2,000 Guineas winner MAKFI, is a half-sister to Group 1 Prix Jean Romanet winner ROMANTICA as well as Listed winner IDEAL WORLD. The second top lot on the third day of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale was the Listedwinning three-year-old filly LIGHT UP OUR WORLD who was knocked down to Luke Lillingston on behalf of John Moore’s and Charles Noell’s Merriebelle Stable for 420,000 guineas.

The attractive daughter of ZOFFANY won the Listed Coral Distaff earlier this year and has been placed multiple times in Group company. Offered for sale by Overbury Stud on behalf of owner-breeder Derek Boocock, the bay filly has a Timeform rating of 107 and is from the family of Group 1 Coronation Stakes winning FALLEN FOR YOU. After the sale, Lillingston commented: “She might go to the US or she might finish racing, options are open. She vetted very well, she gets 1m1f and she goes on all ground - she should suit racing in the US. “I was underbidder on the second dam Fallen Star to Philippa Cooper and have been cursing the luck since! It is great to get back into the family.”

It was another Listed winning three-yearold filly that achieved the third highest price of the day, this time it was FLYING FAIRIES who made 280,000 guineas when knocked down to Irish trainer John Oxx.

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Consigned by Joseph Murphy’s Crampscastle Stables,the daughter of HOLY ROMAN EMPEROR won the Listed Trigo Stakes at Leopardstown in October and is rated 104 by Timeform.

In addition to REPLETE, another highlight from the Juddmonte consignment was MEGARON, the own-sister to this year’s Listed Pomfret Stakes winner CONVEY, who was knocked down to Sheikh Juma for 200,000 guineas.

The three-year-old daughter of DANSILI is out of Listed winning mare INSINUATE, the dam of six winners which in addition to CONVEY include Group 3 Supreme Stakes winner STRONGHOLD and Listed Pretty Polly Stakes winner TAKE THE HINT.

TATTERSALLS 250TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR ENDS WITH RECORD TURNOVER The fourth and final day of the Tattersalls December Mare Sale bought to a close another record year at Tattersalls with turnover topping a record 265 million guineas, the third year in a row that it has surpassed 260 millon guineas.

The final session saw a total of 106 lots sell for 616,500 guineas, taking the four-day breeding stock turnover to 44,709,200 guineas, at an average of 65,652 guineas and a median of 27,000 guineas.

© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ltd

The star attraction on the final day was ARABESCATTA, the MONSUN sister to Group 1 Irish Derby runner-up MIDAS TOUCH and to the recent Listed Zetland Stakes winner CORONET who is second favourite for next year’s

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS Oaks. Consigned by The Castlebridge Consignment, the eight-year-old mare out of the DARSHAAN mare APPROACH was knocked down to Federico Barberini for 38,000 guineas on behalf of Kildaragh Stud’s Peter Kavanagh.

“She is by Monsun with a huge page,” said Barberini of the mare whose pedigree includes Classic and Group 1 winners AUSSIE RULES, ALLEGRETTO, ALBANOVA and ALBORADA. At the conclusion of the 2016 Tattersalls December Sale, Tattersalls Chairman Edmond Mahony commented; “2016 has been an historic year for Tattersalls. It is 250 years since Richard Tattersall founded the world’s first company of bloodstock auctioneers and we are proud custodians of that legacy. We are equally proud that the company has marked this special year with record annual turnover in excess of 265 million guineas and that the Tattersalls December Sale has reinforced its reputation as probably the most international bloodstock sale in the world. It has been a privilege to have welcomed buyers this week from every continent in the world and they have all contributed to a uniquely diverse sale which has brought our anniversary year to a successful conclusion.

“The unprecedented annual turnover demonstrates the sustained appetite for quality European bloodstock in all sectors of the market and this has been clearly reemphasised throughout the December Sale. Record demand at the October Yearling Sale and the Autumn Horses in Training Sale has been followed by truly global participation this week. While the catalogue may not have been regarded as a vintage one, it has still inspired vibrant international competition, particularly at the top end of the market, with the outstanding mare HAZARIYA deservedly topping the sale at 2 million guineas, high class race fillies consistently commanding premium prices, and the annual major consignments from both Godolphin and Juddmonte Farms proving as ever to be hugely popular.

“Eight of the top ten highest priced foals in Britain and Ireland, 76 foals selling for 100,000 guineas or more and a further 110 breaking the six figure mark this week, are all clear indicators of a market in which quality has been well rewarded.

The ten highest priced mares and fillies this week

were sold to buyers from Britain, France, Ireland, Japan, South Africa and the USA, while buyers from Australia, China, and the Gulf region also made significant contributions at every level of the market. As ever, we must thank our vendors, British, Irish and from further afield, who make the Tattersalls December Sale the premier sale of its type in Europe. Every year we visit as many overseas markets as possible, but the consistent support from our vendors is equally crucial in annually attracting the major global players to the December Sale.

“Although we can reflect on a successful and historic year, we are also mindful that there are sectors of the market which are facing major challenges.

This time last year we reflected on the significant rise in the number of horses catalogued and offered at Tattersalls and the inevitable impact at the lower end of the market. This year we have endeavoured to manage the numbers in both the October Yearling Sale and the December Foal Sale more carefully, and clearance rates held up remarkably well, but this only masks the reality that demand in the lower tiers of the market is well below the level of supply.

This is an issue we must all face together, but in the meantime we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to each and every purchaser and vendor, all of whom have played a part in a memorable 250th year of selling thoroughbreds at Tattersalls.”

CRACK SPRINTER PEARL SECRET COMMENCES STUD DUTIES AT BUCKLANDS FARM Pearl Secret is to take up stud duties at Bucklands Farm and Stud in Gloucestershire.

The Group One placed and Group Two winning son of Compton Place made his winning debut at 2 for trainer David Barron and owners Pearl Bloodstock in a York Maiden under Jamie Spencer.

He won his first four starts and Spencer went on to describe him as “really exciting to ride because of his electric speed”.

A tough and genuine competitor for his connections, he raced over 26 times at the highest level, placing in the Kings Stand and winning the Group Two Temple Stakes only last year.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES David Barron upon hearing the news of his retirement said: “He was the quickest and toughest horse that I have ever trained, with a bit more luck he would have won the Group One he so richly deserved, I look forward to training his offspring.”

Pearl Secret was bought by the Northamptonshire based Salcey Forest Stud team Daniel Creighton and Josh Schwartz. The pair who were thrilled to secure the horse said: “Pearl Secret is a gorgeous, strong horse, he was a fast, tough individual by the wonderful Compton Place and out of a black type mare from the family of top sire Dutch Art. It is great to be able to offer a highly commercial, affordable stallion with his credentials to breeders.

He has been purchased for Owner/Breeder John Dance and Matt Eves, who was the majority owner of the Classic winning filly Jet Setting, they are really looking forward to supporting the horse at stud and buying his progeny in the sales ring.”

Roisin Close who will be standing Pearl Secret at her Gloucestershire operation said: “I am delighted to stand Pearl Secret at Bucklands Farm, he is a quality, attractive individual with a top class race record and comes from the speedy Indian Ridge sire line. He is the natural successor to Compton Place and offers a great option to breeders who previously supported his sire and had success with him.”

Pearl Secret will stand at a fee of £4,000 LFFR 1st October Terms. Breeders will have a chance of winning a “Breeders Bonus”, £5,000 will be awarded to the breeder of his first two year-old winner, £10,000 for his first Listed winner and £15,000 for his first Group Winner.

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285,500 EUROS RAISED AT THE AU DELA DES PISTES NOMINATION CHARITY AUCTION On Friday, on the eve of the Arqana breeding stock sales, the recently-formed French aftercare charity, Au Delà des Pistes held a stallion nomination auction.

This fund-raising event was for the benefit of the charity, which was set up under the initiative of The Aga Khan Studs and Godolphin, in order to promote the retraining of racehorses in France.

Fourteen nominations were auctioned for a total of 285,500 euros: CHARM SPIRIT offered by Qatar Racing & Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani, sold for €25,000 to FBA, Anne-Sophie Yoh Benet DRADON PULSE offered by the Irish National Stud, sold for €8,000 to an anonymous buyer DAWN APPROACH offered by Darley, sold for €32,000 to the Aga Khan Studs INTELLO offered by the Wertheimer Brothers, sold for €26,000 to the Haras des Capucines MARTALINE offered by the Haras de Montaigu, sold for €16,000 to the Haras du Lieu des Champs MASTERCRAFSTMAN offered by Coolmore, sold for €25,000 to Cocheese Bloodstock, Haras du Petit Tellier MAXIOS offered by Flaxman Stables Ireland Limited, sold for €11,000 to Berend Van Dalfsen MUKHADRAM offered by Shadwell Stud, sold for €8,500 to the Aga Khan Studs NEW BAY offered by Juddmonte, sold for €24,000 to Riviera Equine

© Image supplied by Au Dela Des Pistes / Copyright Zuzanna Lupa

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS OLYMPIC GLORY offered by Al Shaqab, sold for €16,000 to Haras du Petit Tellier, Cocheese Bloodstock RAJSAMAN offered by the Haras de la Cauvinière, sold for €8,000 to Skymarc Farms, Suprina Bloodstock SCISSOR KICK offered by the Haras D’Etreham, sold €10,000 sold to FBA, AnneSophie Yoh Benet SIYOUNI offered by the Aga Khan Studs, sold for €60,000 to MAB Agency, Philip Michenot VADAMOS offered by the Haras de Saint Pair, sold €16,000 to Ecurie des Monceaux These funds will be used to finance the following objectives : • To organise racecourse events that raise the awareness of the versatility of the thoroughbred.

• These will highlight the structures and individuals that undertake racehorse retraining, like the Racehorse Retraining Day that was organised in Deauville in August this year.

• To accredit retraining facilities in France in order to ensure the aftercare provided is of the best possible standard and to improve the tracking of these horses.

• To organise equestrian competitions for exracehorses to promote their versatility.

• To create a fund for vulnerable racehorses.

Au Delà des Pistes would like to thank all the owners, stallion managers, studs and buyers that contributed to making this event a success. We would also like to mention the under bidders namely Andreas Putsch, Jean Biraben, Mandore International Agency, Alec Waugh, Chryss O’Reilly, Blandford Bloodstock, Ghislain Bozo and White Birch Farms that assisted in raising this fund.

Furthermore the Arqana sales team organised a faultless auction, while there were several partners that generously donated their time and services for the event, notably Jour de Galop who gave a 2016 Yearbook to each buyer, Henri Morel who donated the food and soft drinks for the cocktail and Constantin de Lencquesaing the Financial Director of the Aga Khan Studs who gave the wine from his family’s vineyard, Château Bonadona (2013).

Aliette Forien, owner of the Haras de Montaigu and also President of Au Delà des Pistes, said after the auction: “Once again the bloodstock industry has shown a united front for this cause that affects us all. I would like to sincerely thank all the studs and stallion owners that gave nominations to this auction but also the buyers and under bidders that all helped to make this auction a huge success.

“The funds raised will allow Au Delà des Pistes to achieve their objectives set for 2017. This is both encouraging and exciting for the future of this project.”

PARVANEH TOPS THE MILLION POUND MARK AT ARQANA BREEDING STOCK SALE Already a Group performer as a juvenile, Darius Racing’s three-year-old filly PARVANEH (lot 178) was campaigned by Waldemar Hickst to a trio of top class performances this season, which included victories in the Group 2 Badener Stutenpreis, Group 3 Schwarzgold-Rennen and a 4th place in the Group 1 Preis von Europa. With a rating of 110 and a catalogue page which featured the consistent Group winners NAYYIR and SKY HUNTER, the daughter of Holy Roman Emperor raised plenty of hands and James Delahooke had to round off his bid to €1 million to seal the deal for the Ecurie des Monceaux offering.

“I have bought her on behalf of American owner Pursuit of Racing and she will be covered next year,” pointed Delahooke. “She was obviously a tremendous racehorse and is a prized addition to any broodmare band.”

Anna Drion has always had a special connection with CAMPROCK (lot 158) as the daughter of Myboycharlie was bred by her own daughter Moa and raced by a partnership in which she kept an interest after the filly fetched €30,000 as a yearling.

She went on to win her first three starts including the Listed Prix Rose de Mai and Group 3 Prix Penelope and only went down by a head in the Group 1 Prix Saint-Alary. She was then out of luck in the Group 1 Prix de Diane and came home with an injury that has kept her away from the track since. Her performances have added further lustre to a pedigree page that traces back to Sookera and Hasili.

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES Bids sparked from all around the ring for the filly offered by Drion’s Coulonces Consignment until Emmanuel de Seroux offered €850,000 on behalf of Katsumi Yoshida’s Northern Farm.

“She was a top class race filly and is a gorgeous individual, pretty much the whole package as they say,” said de Seroux. “We have been following her all year and are delighted to have secured her. She might visit Deep Impact”.

Selective market on day 2 of Arqana Breeding Stock sale The market on the second day of the ARQANA Breeding Stock Sale proved significantly more selective than both on the opening session and the equivalent one a year ago. The 71% clearance rate, down from 81% in 2015, caused the day’s aggregate to take a 16% plunge to €5,042,500 yet, as has often been the case at auctions around the world this season, there was plenty of demand for the quality offerings and the average price progressed almost 5% to reach €27,555. The median was also up to €22,000.

Broodmares proved the hottest commodity of the day with the three six-figure price tags of the day being achieved in that category.

The priciest of the trio, VEZINA (lot 301) was making her third trip to this sale and went down to Jeremy Brummitt for the second time. The first took place four years ago on behalf of Bjorn Nielsen when the daughter of Bering was offered from La Motteraye Consignment. This time around, Brummitt went to €105,000 to secure the grey in the name of Seven Hills Bloodstock. Upon signing the docket, the agent indicated that he was acting for a partnership which would involve Jan and Maja Sundström’s Team Hogdala, whose daughter Anna consigned the mare through her Coulonces Consignment.

Vezina is a half-sister to the Group-winning mare Marie de Ken, who went on to produce the Group 1 performers Charmo and Ana Marie for Ecurie Bader. Although not able to win herself, Vezina has gone one better than her sibling in the breeding shed as a mating with Holy Roman Emperor resulted in the Group 1 Criterium de Saint-Cloud scorer MORANDI. A group of young breeders originated from the trotting world teamed up to make their first foray into thoroughbred stock, which materialised in

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MELBOURNE SHUFFLE (lot 283), for which they paid €100,000. Offered by Haras d’Etreham, the four-year-old daughter of Street Cry has some strong credentials to her name as a winner out of a full sister to the Group 1 heroine and top class producers SEQUOYAH and LISTEN. Thus, her catalogue page features the names of Henrythenavigator, Queen Cleopatra, Magician, Dolphin Street, and the icing on the cake was the Siyouni cover she carried around the ring.

Four lots before the session drew to a close, COMIQUE (lot 479), the final representative of the Wertheimer et Frere draft, commanded €100,000 from Alain Decrion who signed on behalf of Pierre Talvard of Haras du Cadran. Offered in foal to Makfi, she is a daughter of Distorted Humor out of the Grade I victrix CORRAZONA who produced no less than five black type horses headed by the Group 1 Hollywood Gold Cup runner up OLMODAVOR. Talvard was making his second expensive purchase from the Wertheimer et Frere consignment, having bought PAS DE REPONSE for €750,000 the previous day.

LIVELY NATIONAL HUNT SESSION CLOSES SMALLER ARQANA CATALOGUE FOR BREEDING STOCK SALE The final session of the 2016 Breeding Stock sale saw some lively trade and solid demand for the bestbred NH foals, fillies and mares from a variety of investors from both sides of the Channel. The same session a year ago included the dispersal of seven stallions from the former National Studs sires which grossed €500,000 and as a result, comparisons on the average and median prices are difficult to make.

The aggregate for this year’s final day was €1,855,000, almost exactly €500,000 less than in 2015, on a day where 76% of the 150 lots through the ring sold for an average price of €16,130.

From the coveted draft of Haras du Berlais, BOREALE DU BERLAIS (lot 941) caused a major stir in the ring until being knocked down to LJ Negoce, represented by Anthony Baudouin of Haras du Hoguenet, for €210,000 – the highest

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS price for a National Hunt mare since the Grade 1 winner Royale Athenia commanded €300,000 back in 2008.

A daughter of Presenting, the five-year-old place in the Listed Prix Sagan and Prix d’Iéna over the Auteuil hurdles from only five starts and was offered in foal to Haras d’Etreham’s leading jumps sire Saint Des Saints. She is out of the Listed winner Bonita du Berlais, herself a half-sister to four highly talented jumpers headed by the Grade 1 Prix Cambacérès hurdle hero Bonito du Berlais.

David Futter of Yorton Stud has been a massive supporter of French bloodlines and French form and proved this yet again when offering €86,000 for another member of the Berlais draft, the regallybred HOUSTON DU BERLAIS (lot 924).

Twice placed at Listed level at Auteuil over hurdles, she is by the great jumping influence Mansonnien and a half-sister to four Stakes winners including leading chaser Madison du Berlais.

CANYON CITY TOPS THE TATTERSALLS IRELAND ASCOT DECEMBER SALE Godolphin’s Canyon City topped the Tattersalls Ireland Ascot December Sale when knocked down for £85,000. The sale concluded with a median of

£2,500 (+67%), an average of £4,830 (+26%) and an aggregate of £391,250 (+39%). The clearance rate was 66%.

Canyon City (Lot 85) proved a popular commodity attracting leading National Hunt trainers and agents from Ireland and Great Britain. There was lively bidding from Nick Taylor representing Tom Malone but it was Oliver Murphy who signed the docket at £85,000 on behalf of trainer Neil King.

A three-year-old by Authorized and consigned by Godolphin, the colt has been placed on all of his six starts and is closely related to leading sire Kayf Tara in the second dam.

The second highest price of the day was the Fforrest Farm Stables consigned Cornish Warrior (Lot 147). Placed three times out of his four starts, the Oscar gelding was knocked down to trainer Neil Mulholland for £26,000.

The Godolphin draft provided 5 of the top 10 lots and selling at an aggregate of £175,800. John O’Shea of Elton Racing purchased the third highest price of the day. Lot 91, Cape Dignity, a lightly raced Teofilo colt who was placed on both of his two outings, was knocked down to O’Shea for £20,000.

Dark Magic, another Godolphin consigned lot (Lot 90) was the next lot. An Invincible Spirit twoyear-old gelding, he is out of Listed winner DARK PROMISE and was secured by Dean Ivory Racing for £14,000 to continue his career.

© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland Ascot

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES

AIDEN MURPHY SECURES TOP LOT ON DAY 1 OF GOFFS DECEMBER NH SALE Goffs December National Hunt Sale enjoyed a strong first day with increases recorded in average, turnover and median.

Aiden Murphy secured the day’s top lot when going to €57,000 for a colt foal by Kayf Tara (Lot 86 - pictured). Out of a dual winning own sister to Grade 3 chase winner Simon and from the family of Oulart and Slieveardagh, the foal was consigned

by The Beeches Stud who accounted for three of the top five lots of the day. Murphy later secured another from the same draft for €50,000 in a Flemensfirth colt foal out of a sister to multiple Grade 2 winner Whatuthink (Lot 202).

© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland Ascot

The second highest priced foal on Day 1 was a good looking Shantou colt (Lot 267) from the family of Weapon’s Amnesty consigned by Blackhall Stud. He was bought by Jim Murphy for €52,000.

RECORD PRICE FOR PETITE PARISIENNE CLOSES 150TH YEAR AT GOFFS The conclusion to the 150th Year at Goffs was an exceptionally positive one as Petite Parisienne (Lot 534 pictured) set a record price for a National Hunt Mare at a Goffs December National Hunt sale and increases across the board were seen in turnover, average and median.

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© Image supplied by Goffs Ltd

Solid trade continued on day 2 and finished with a flourish as Petite Parisienne, one of an excellent selection of mares on offer went the way of Kieran Mariga for €130,000. The dual Grade 1 winning mare by Montmartre was sold by Gigginstown House Stud in foal to Shantou.

The top class prices continued as Give It Time (Lot 541) came into the ring from Clonogan House Stud. A multiple Stakes winning mare by Kayf Tara and in foal to Walk In The Park, she sold to Aidan Archdeacon for €75,000, while Grade 3 winner Analifet (Lot 535) by Califet, another mare to be offered by Gigginstown House Stud, was knocked down to Tom Malone for €70,000.

Richard Frisby was active throughout the sale as the leading purchaser and on day 2 acquired the highest price foal, a brother to Highland Lodge and Closing Ceremony by Mahler (Lot 382) for €43,000 from leading vendors Ballincurrig House Stud.

Glenvale Stud continued to be busy on day 2, purchasing a son of the ever popular Flemensfirth out of a sister to African Gold from Yellowford Farm for €40,000 (Lot 478).

Commenting on a successful sale, Goffs Group Chief Executive Henry Beeby said: “It is gratifying to have finished Goffs 150th Anniversary year with a successful sale and equally pleasing to see one of our National Hunt sales take further strides forward.

“This is a sale that has enjoyed serious growth in recent times as part of our “Serious about National Hunt” drive resulting in three sales vying for market leader status. Indeed the days when National Hunt was perceived to play second fiddle at Goffs are long gone as our Punchestown, Land Rover and December NH catalogues are all first choices for increasing numbers of leading Irish National Hunt breeders and vendors.

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS “The last two days has seen a trade as good as any for the category with strong competition for so many of the best foals and mares leading to more growth in the key statistics and an impressive top price of €130,000 which is a Goffs record for a NH mare although, of course, it was harder work for those less busy at their stables. However the appetite for the best remains undimmed and it is just so rewarding for the passionate Goffs NH team that their efforts are consistently converting to sales ring success.”

seven of the top ten sires in Europe are standing in Ireland and the Stallion Trail offers breeders the opportunity to see these great stallions.

Commenting on the ITM Irish Stallion Trail, ITM’s Marketing Manager, Sarah Nash, said: “The 2016 ITM Irish Stallion Trail was a fantastic weekend building on the huge success of 2015. The full list of participating farms is available at www. itm.ie/stalliontrail and we ask people interested in attending the trail to register through the website.”

Click here for full list of participating stud farms

LIST OF STUD FARMS RELEASED FOR THE 2017 IRISH THOROUGHBRED MARKETING IRISH STALLION TRAIL

RECORD YEAR FOR TATTERSALLS IRELAND ACROSS ALL THREE VENUES

The third running of the Irish Thoroughbred Marketing (ITM) Irish Stallion Trail will take place on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th January, 2017. The weekend trail takes place again in between two premium days of racing with the Goffs Thyestes Handicap Chase at Gowran Park on Thursday 26th January, followed by the BHP Insurances Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown on Sunday 29th January.

Twenty-seven stud farms will open their doors across Ireland’s four provinces just before the official opening of the traditional covering season. Currently

Sales at all three of Tattersalls Ireland’s sales venues concluded 2016 with increases in turnover.

Tattersalls Ireland recorded an increase in aggregate for the fifth consecutive year and the highest since the pre-recession year of 2007. The Tattersalls Ireland Cheltenham Sales witnessed an increase of 8% in turnover while Tattersalls Ireland Ascot Sales experienced an explosive year in 2016 with an increase in aggregate of 40%.

Commenting on the successful year of bloodstock auctions at Tattersalls Ireland, Managing Director Roger Casey said;

© Image supplied by Racing Ireland / Copyright Amy Lynam

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NEWS BLOODSTOCK & SALES winners were sold at Tattersalls Ireland; GALILEO GOLD, WICKLOW BRAVE, HAWKSMOOR and CONSELICE.”

© Image supplied by Tattersalls Ireland

TATTERSALLS IRELAND “For the fifth consecutive year, Tattersalls Ireland has delivered an increased set of returns with the aggregate, the fourth highest on record, increasing by 3% to €45,046,050 and the highest average on record of €17,658. Similar to 2015, the modest increase in turnover is a reflection on the consolidation of the bloodstock industry as a whole.

The market continues to dictate the demand for the more select types and this is certainly reflected the annual rise in aggregate.

“Consistently the market leading Derby Sale continues to be the focal point of the Tattersalls Ireland Sales calendar and 2016 was no different.

A record of 32 horses realised €100,000 or more with the highest price achieved in Europe of €255,000 for a National Hunt three-year-old store and a record average of €47,535 was delivered. The September Yearling Sale maintained its reputation as Europe’s most progressive yearling sale producing an impressive clearance rate of 82%, five horses selling in excess of €100,000 and rises in the aggregate, average and median. Trade at the November National Hunt Sale was also very strong. It was extremely pleasing to observe significant growth in the foal section recording a robust clearance rate of 71% and 37 foals realising €40,000 or more. It was also gratifying to sell a mare for the second highest price on record when Valyssa Monterg realised €160,000.

“Without a doubt, our graduates continue to be the best form of endorsement; National Hunt Festival successes have come from THISTLECRACK, CUE CARD, YORKHILL, BALLYOPTIC, BLACK HERCULES, CARLINGFORD LOUGH, RULE THE WORLD and ROUGE ANGEL and on the flat, four European Classic

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TATTERSALLS IRELAND ASCOT “Sales at Ascot for 2016 concluded on a high after the first full year under the Tattersalls Ireland umbrella.

There was a major increase in turnover of 40% to £5,991,550 and a considerable rise in the average of a further 40% to £8,230. The overwhelming highlight of 2016 for Ascot was the Two-Year-Old Breeze-Up Sale in April which witnessed a jump of 120% in turnover, 100% in median and 38% in average. The May Sale also made history for the venue when the highest price for a National Hunt horse of £110,000 was achieved.

“Undoubtedly the standout success story of the venue is the February Sale graduate MRS DANVERS, available to the market at £1,000, she went unbeaten through the year and won twice at pattern level including the Cornwallice Stakes at Newmarket.”

TATTERSALLS IRELAND CHELTENHAM “The first full season of sales conducted by Tattersalls Ireland at Cheltenham, the home of National Hunt Racing, finished with a rise in the aggregate of 8% to £13,820,100. Highlights from the year came from the most recent December Sale which witnessed a record price for a Point to Point Horse being sold at the venue for £305,000 and the May Sale delivering the best price for a four-year-old mare of £200,000.

A total of 33 horses fetched £100,000 or more at Cheltenham which is a resounding endorsement of the venue as THE venue of choice to sell quality form horses. Cheltenham Sale graduates continue to deliver on the track at the highest level. Highlights of 2016 have come from GOD’S OWN Grade 1 Festival double, MOON RACER’s continued progression following Champion Bumper success to MINELLA ROCCO’s Cheltenham Festival glory, the very venue where he topped the Festival sale two years previously.

“We would like to sincerely thank all our customers, vendors and purchasers alike. With their loyal support 2016 has proven to be a remarkable and rewarding year for Tattersalls Ireland across all three

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BLOODSTOCK & SALES NEWS sales venues. We would also like to extend gratitude to the team at Irish Thoroughbred Marketing for their continued support and assistance throughout the year.

“On a personal level, I would like to thank our own industrious team at Tattersalls Ireland and the wider Tattersalls family. To maintain the continued growth of the company in recent years and to successfully deliver sales at two new venues has required unstinting effort and commitment and our team has not been found wanting in this regard.

“Another exciting year for is in store for Tattersalls Ireland in 2017 with the first sale at Cheltenham on 28 January and at Fairyhouse on 31 January for the February National Hunt Sale. We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our clients a very happy Christmas and the best wishes for a prosperous 2017.”

The following season saw Hurricane Run emulate his sire with victories in the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh, before beating Electrocutionist by ½ a length in the Group 1 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes, although he had suffered a rare reversal in between those runs when second to Pride at Saint-Cloud.

Rather like Montjeu at four, as the season wore on, his brilliance seemed to wane and he suffered a shock defeat when second to Shirocco in the 2006 Prix Foy at Longchamp.

ARC AND KING GEORGE HERO HURRICANE RUN DIES Course Specialist is very sad news to report the passing of the brilliant 2005 Prix de l’Arc deTriomphe winner Hurricane Run, at the age of 14.

Trained by Andre Fabre, Hurricane Run provided early evidence of the talent of his sire Montjeu, winning four Group 1 races, before siring horses of the calibre of Ectot and Magic Hurricane.

Raced just once at two, Hurricane Run was successful in his first two starts of 2005, including victory in the Group 2 Prix Hocquart, but in the first Prix du Jockey Club to be run over the shorter distance of 10 ½ furlongs, he succumbed to a ¼ of a length defeat by Shamardal.

Later that month, now ridden by Kieren Fallon, he stepped up to 1 ½ miles and won the Group 1 Irish Derby by ½ a length from Scorpion.

Hurricane Run took the classic French three year old colt’s route to the Arc, having the summer off before returning to win the Prix Niel in September.

Under Fallon, he was a brilliant two lengths winner of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe the following month, beating a field containing Westerner, previous winner Bago, Shirocco, Motivator, Shawanda, Pride and Warrsan, as well as Scorpion.

© Jimmy Clark

Even so, he fell just short of landing back to back Arc victories in October 2006, finishing third to Rail Link and Pride after Japanese superstar Deep Impact had been disqualified.

The similarities with his sire continued at Newmarket as he was turned over in the Champion Stakes by Pride, before he disappointed on his final start in the Breeders’ Cup Turf when 6th to Red Rocks at Churchill Downs.

Hurricane Run had been standing at Germany’s Ammerland Stud, where he was also bred and from where his death was announced on Wednesday.

“It is with great sadness that we would like to say that we had to give up our great stallion Hurricane Run due to serious complications during a planned routine operation this morning,” said a statement.

“We would also like to thank all the breeders who supported him.”

In a glittering career, Hurricane Run was a winner of eight of his 14 career starts - and £2,447,602 in prize-money.

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WHAT’S ON JANUARY

WHAT’S ON RACING HIGHLIGHTS IN JANUARY The New Year gets off to a flying start with Cheltenham’s traditional opener and some classy action, headlined by the Grade 2 Dipper Novices’ Chase and the Grade 2 Relkeel Hurdle.

© www.healyracing.ie

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JANUARY WHAT’S ON

O

n Saturday, January 7th Sandown Park stages the first Grade 1 contest of the New Year with the Tolworth Hurdle, won last year by subsequent Cheltenham Festival winner Yorkhill.

Warwick takes centre stage on the 14th, with the staminatesting Betfred Classic Chase the big race on a quality card that also includes the Grade 2 Leamington Hurdle.

Meanwhile at Kempton Park it is Lanzarote Hurdle day.

In Ireland, Punchestown stages the Grade 2 Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle, won by Min in 2016. © Steven Cargill

© www.healyracing.ie

The following day, Fairyhouse plays host to the always competitive Dan Moore Memorial Handicap Chase, worth €100,000.

Thursday 19th is Higos Insurance Services Somerset National day at Wincanton, while Thurles stages Graded action, the highlight of which is the Grade 3 Kinloch Brae Chase, won for the past two years by Gold Cup winner Don Cossack.

Meanwhile, Haydock Park stages the Peter Marsh Chase and a trio of Grade 2 Cheltenham trials, headlined by the StanJames.com Champion Hurdle Trial.

The following day sees Leopardstown stage its valuable Coral.ie sponsored afternoon, with a €100,000 handicap chase and handicap hurdle the main highlights on a card which also features a Grade 3 novice chase.

On Thursday 26th January, Gowran Park plays host to one of the big handicap chases of the year in Ireland, the Goffs Thyestes Chase, won last year by

© www.healyracing.ie

© www.healyracing.ie

Grade 1 action returns on the 21st at Ascot, with the Clarence House Chase over two miles, one of the major races of the season over this distance, won in recent years by the likes of Sprinter Sacre, Sire De Grugy and last year by Un De Sceaux.

Saturday 28th January sees Cheltenham stages it Trials Day, with the highlights including the Grade 2 Cotswold Chase and the Grade 2 Cleeve Hurdle, while the Grade 2 Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle is a final dress rehearsal for the main event of this series in March, as is the Grade 2 JCB Triumph Hurdle Trial.

The month ends with a bang at Leopardstown on Sunday, January 29th. The feature race on a stellar card is the Grade 1 BHP Insurance Irish Champion Hurdle, won last year in brilliant fashion by Faugheen. The chief supporting race on this card is the Grade 1 Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase, one of the most significant races of the year for two mile novice chasers in Ireland and a significant pointer to the major spring festivals.

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WHAT’S ON JANUARY

JANUARY 2017 FIXTURE LIST 9th

10th

11th

Doncaster Lingfield

Wolverhampton Lingfield

Southwell

Kempton (e)

19th

Taunton

Catterick

20th

Huntingdon Lingfield

14th

Dundalk (e)

21st

Kempton Lingfield

15th

16th

22nd

Fakenham Kelso

Fairyhouse

23rd

Ayr

Plumpton

Wolverhampton

24th

Kempton (e)

Lingfield

Newcastle (e)

Lingfield

26th

Newbury

Fairyhouse Fakenham Southwell

Chelmsford City (e)

Warwick

Southwell

Gowran Park

Wolverhampton (e)

Ludlow

27th

Doncaster

Thurles

Huntingdon

Lingfield

Newcastle (e)

Chepstow

Lingfield

Musselburgh

Dundalk (e)

28th

Cheltenham

Dundalk (e)

Doncaster

Haydock

Lingfield

Ascot

Kempton (e)

Lingfield

Uttoxeter 29th

Navan

Fontwell

30th

Hereford

Leopardstown Bangor

31st

Newcastle

Naas

Fontwell

Sedgefield

Leopardstown Ayr

Plumpton Southwell Lingfield

Wolverhampton

Southwell

Southwell

Down Royal

Leicester

Wetherby

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Catterick Ludlow

Taunton

Wetherby

Punchestown

Kempton

Newcastle (e)

Warwick

Wolverhampton (e)

Exeter

Wolverhampton (e)

Sedgefield

Wolverhampton (e)

25th

Wincanton

Chelmsford City (e) Newcastle

Ayr

Market Rasen

Hereford

Leicester 13th

18th

Wolverhampton

Newcastle 12th

17th

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Wolverhampton

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