Chester Racecard - Friday 12th May

Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear ASHOKA

ON-COURSE BETTING & HOW TO READ YOUR RACECARD

page 6-7

CHESTER PLATE HISTORY

page 78-79

We have a range of way to bet at Chester Race

LAST YEAR’S WINNERS

page 16-17

HUXLEY STAKES HISTORY

page 34-35

CHESTER CUP HISTORY

page 47-48

LAST YEAR’S HUXLEY STAKES

page 37

LAST YEAR’S CHESTER CUP

page 44-45

TODAY’S TIPS

page 11

FACTS & STATISTICS

page 8-9

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

page 88

TODAY’S SPONSORS

Chester Race Company would like to thank the following for their generous sponsorship of today’s racing.

TODAY’S RACING

CHESTER CUP DAY

FRIDAY 12 MAY 2023

RACE TIMES

1.30pm p22

The CAA Stellar

Earl Grosvenor Handicap Stakes

3.45pm p56

The Boodles Darley Maiden Stakes (GBB Race)

2.05pm p28

The Precision Facades Handicap Stakes

4.20pm p68

The White Oak Apprentice Handicap Stakes

2.40pm p36

The IRE-Incentive, It Pays To Buy Irish Huxley Stakes (Group 2)

4.55pm p78

The tote Fantasy, Whos In Your Stable Chester Plate Handicap Stakes (for the Bobby McAlpine Memorial Cup)

TODAY’S JOCKEYS AND TRAINERS

3.15pm p46

The tote Chester Cup (Heritage Handicap)

Listed below are the Jockeys and Trainers in action at today’s meeting

Jockeys

George Bass

4.20 Dougie Costello

Kaiya Fraser

Jason Hart

2.05,

Ethan

Mitchell

Benoit de la Sayette

Keane

Andrew Balding

2.05, 2.40, 3.15, 3.45, 4.20, 4.55

Stella Barclay

4.20

David & Nicola Barron

2.05

Ralph Beckett

2.05

Michael Bell

3.45

Jennie Candlish

4.55

Declan Carroll

3.15

Jack Channon

2.05

Jane Chapple-Hyam

1.30

Simon & Ed Crisford

1.30, 2.40

Tim Easterby

1.30

Michael & David Easterby

4.20

Gordon Elliott

4.20

Brian Ellison 4.20

Sam England

3.15

Harry Eustace

4.20

Richard Fahey 4.55

James Fanshawe

4.55

Charlie Fellowes

1.30

Dominic Ffrench Davis 3.15

Harry Fry

3.15

Jim Goldie

3.15

Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

1.30, 4.20

Rae Guest

4.55

William Haggas

2.40, 3.45

Richard Hannon

1.30

Denis G. Hogan

3.15

Richard Hughes

3.15 4.20

Charlie Johnston

3.45, 4.55

Adrian Keatley

1.30

Alan King

3.15, 4.20

Daniel & Claire Kubler

1.30

David Loughnane

1.30

Mark Loughnane

4.20

Heather Main

4.55

Donald McCain

4.55

John McConnell

4.55

Noel Meade

2.40

Patrick Morris 3.15, 4.20

Harrison Shaw

3.15

Jamie Spencer

2.40, 3.15

Charlie Todd 4.20

Alec Voikhansky 4.20

Hughie Morrison

2.05, 3.15

Amy Murphy

2.05

Aidan O’Brien

2.40

Hugo Palmer 3.15, 3.45

Kevin Philippart de Foy

1.30

John Quinn

1.30

Katie Scott

1.30

Richard Spencer

1.30

Roger Varian

2.05, 2.40

D. K. Weld

3.15

Ian Williams

2.05, 3.15, 4.20, 4.55

Venetia Williams

4.55

S. P. C. Woods

2.05

CHAIR’S WELCOME

WELCOME TO DAY THREE OF THE 2023 BOODLES MAY FESTIVAL - THE TOTE CHESTER CUP DAY

Good afternoon,

Welcome to the final day of the iconic Boodles May Festival. Today we enjoy the spectacle of the season, the TOTE Chester Cup, which has had a record number of entries this year

Today’s card comprises of 7 exciting races, beginning at 1.30pm with the CAA Stellar Earl Grosvenor Handicap Stakes. The high-quality IRE-incentive, it Pays To Buy Irish Huxley Stakes takes place at 2.40pm followed by the feature race of the fixture, the Tote Chester Cup. This the longest race at Chester and will commence at 3.15pm. Finally, the 2023 Boodles May Festival will draw to a close at 4.55pm with the TOTE Fantasy, Who’s In Your Stable Chester Plate Handicap Stakes.

I’d like to extend my thanks to today’s sponsors. First, our title sponsor of the entire festival, Boodles, who have been proudly sponsoring here at the world’s oldest racecourse for 10 years. Additionally, our style partner Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet who are home to designer brands just a stone’s throw away from the city The TOTE who are present at the racecourse today offering their gaming services. CAA Stellar who have been great supporters of the racecourse for many years. Precision Facades who are a leading national full building envelope contactor Irish Thoroughbred Marketing who are well-known throughout the horse racing industry Finally, White Oak whose lending solutions have made it a global brand. The support of all our sponsors is greatly appreciated by everyone at Chester Racecourse.

We next race here on Saturday 27th May as our much-loved Roman Day returns to the Roodee. Expect great racing and lots of family fun as we celebrate our history and the ancient city of Chester I hope you’ll visit us again for an exciting day out.

Ian O’Doherty Chair

PLACE A BET ON-COURSE WITH AND RACECOURSE BOOKMAKERS

HOW TO PLACE A BET WITH A RACECOURSE BOOKMAKER WAYS TO BET

WIN ONLY The most common form of bet You win if your horse is first past the post.

Example: £5 win at 8/1 would return £45 (8 x £5 = £40 + £5 stake)

EACH WAY Backing a horse to win or be placed. This doubles your bet – for example: £5 each way = £5 to win and £5 for a place = £10 total stake.

STANDARD EACH WAY TERMS

In conjunction with The RCA, the bookmakers have introduced standard each-way terms. Bookmakers will provide these terms, or better, when offering each-way betting.

• Fewer than 3 runners - all on to win

• 3 or 4 runners – 1/5 odds a place 1,2

• 5 – 7 runners (inclusive) – 1/4 odds a place 1,2

• 8 or more runners – 1/5 odds a place 1,2,3

• Handicaps with 12 to 15 runners (inclusive) – 1/4 odds a place 1,2,3

• Handicaps with 16 to 21 runners (inclusive) – 1/5 odds a place 1,2,3,4

• Handicaps with 22 or more runners – 1/4 odds a place 1,2,3,4

Some bookmakers also offer ‘betting without the favourite’, where you can back your selection at reduced odds to either win or finish second to the horse nominated by the bookmaker as favourite. You may bet with confidence with any bookmaker on course as they operate with Administration Of Gambling On Tracks Ltd. (AGT) approval.

In the unlikely event of a dispute with a bookmaker, please call upon the assistance of the AGT Betting Ring Manager, who can be found on the ground floor of the Grandstand Enclosure.

The AGT also offers a ‘late pay’ service in case the bookmaker leaves the course before you have collected your winnings.

Late pay claims should be sent to: AGT, 3A Kings Hall, Parsons Green, St Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 4WY.

PLACING A BET

Experiencing the buzz of the betting ring may be a little daunting at first, but you will soon find it is very easy to place a bet. Here are some guidelines for racegoers to follow:

1. Each bookmaker will be offering slightly different prices, so shop around for the best odds against your selection.

2. Call your bet clearly to the bookmaker by stating the name and / or number of your chosen horse and the stake.

3. Listen to the bookmaker repeat your bet to his / her clerk and correct him immediately if any details are called wrongly

4. Make sure you obtain a ticket from the bookmaker and keep it safe.

5. If your selection wins, hand the ticket back to the bookmaker for settlement. Never destroy or dispose of your ticket until after the “Weighed in” announcement has been made. Betting with the bookmaker is tax-free. Deductions are made only if a horse is withdrawn after the betting market has been formed.

Please check the minimum stake accepted by each bookmaker on his display board. Some bookmakers do not take sums under £5, especially in the main betting ring, but there will be others who are happy to accept £2 bets. Please tender the correct change when possible.

4ENABLE (19) 1-3 9-0 (3)

BfNathaniel (IRE) -Concentric

Mr K. Abdullah

Juddmonte Farms Ltd

Frankie Dettori

John Gosden, Newmarket

Juddmonte Farms Inc

TIMEFORM VIEW Decisive winner of aNewcastle maiden on sole2-y-o start (form working out well).Builtonthat abundant promisewhen third in 11/4m minor event on return at Newburyand she’spotentiallysmart TFR★★★★✩ BHA102

1. Colours Graphic - a visual of the Owners Silks that the Jockey will be wearing

2. Horse’s number on saddlecloth

3. Colour and sex of horse:

B - Bay, Br - Brown, h - horse, Ch - Chesnut, c - colt, g - gelding, Gr - Grey, f - filly, m - mare, Ro - Roan (followed by Sire, Dam and Damsire)

4. Horse’s name

5. Birthplace of horse if not born in Great Britain

6. Number of day’s since horse last ran

7. Age of horse (when race not restricted to a single age group)

8. Weight of horse in Stones and Pounds

9. Draw

10 Owner’s Name(s)

11. Breeder

12. Details of horse’s previous performances: Bold type indicates All-Weather Track form / denotes new season - denotes new year

C - The horse has won on this racecourse

D - The horse has won over this distance

CD - The horse has won over both this course and distance

BF - The horse was a beaten favourite on its last run

13. A guide to the horse’s recent form and star rating. Each horse has been given a star rating, these are defined across:

HHHHH Selected to win the race.

HHHHI Good chance of being placed.

HHHII By no means out of the reckoning but at least one or two hold stronger claims

HHIII Unlikely to win but not totally without hope.

HIIII Can be given little or no chance.

14 Trainer’s Name and location of training establishment

15 Jockey’s Name. If there is a number next to the name, this indicates that the jockey can claim that amount in weight (lbs) off the stated riding weight

1. THE AVERAGE FLAT JOCKEY

is below 5’6 (although there are exceptions) and weigh between 8 & 9st

2. JOCKEYS BOOTS

They are mostly synthetic and can weigh as little as 300 grams

3. RACING SADDLE

Weighs between 1 & 2lb

4. JOCKEYS WHIP

A jockey’s whip is made from a core of light-weight carbon fibre surrounded by layers of air cushioned foam and light-weight leather. Usage of the whip is strictly controlled by the British Horseracing Authority Stewards who are present on raceday

5. SILKS

The silks that a jockey wears belong to the racehorse owner rather than the jockey. Each set is unique, such is the demand for certain designs that some colours can sell for thousands, or even tens of thousands of pounds

6. BREATHING

The horse’s lungs breath in and out 140 times per minute delivering 150 litres of air per second. At 10,000 litres per race, that is what a human breaths in a day

7. HEART CAPACITY

Up to 240 beats per minute moving 60 pints of blood during a race. A racehorse’s heart weighs the equivalent of 4 bags of sugar (around 4 kgs)

8. STRIDE LENGTH

An average racehorses’ stride length is 20-21ft

9. STRIDE FREQUENCY

Between 130 and 140 strides per minute

10. AVERAGE SPEED

37.5 mph

11. HORSES WEIGHT

A horses weight is approximately half a tonne

12. FUEL CONSUMPTION

A horse uses 35,000 calories per day, whereas a human adult male is advised to eat 2,500

FAC T S & S TAT I S TI C S

Revich just faded late into third last time at Newbury over a mile and has to be considered running off the same mark for the Richard Spencer yard. However, preference is still for GWEEDORE, who was only beaten a length and a half into second on his latest outing over 7f at Haydock, and the handicapper has been kind to leave his rating alone. Therefore, he is fancied to attack from stall eight and make all. The booking of Ryan Moore on Croupier makes him an interesting contender

WIN: GWEEDORE

DANGER: REVICH

GROUNDBREAKER was last seen in September when beaten just under three lengths in a warm handicap that has worked out well at Newbury. The son of Oasis Dream has been gelded during his break which is likely to benefit him, especially given how keen he could be early on in some of his races last season. The main danger looks to be Baryshnikov, who stayed on well last time when third at Pontefract and has Billy Loughnane claiming 3lb Savvy Victory completes the shortlist.

WIN: GROUNDBREAKER

DANGER: BARYSHNIKOV

POINT LONSDALE returned from a nearly a year off to strike in the Alleged Stakes at the Curragh over this trip in heavy conditions and had a subsequent winner back in second. The son of Australia, who was a top juvenile, is bred to improve with age and is fancied to have too much class for these Mujtaba improved through the handicap ranks last year and has to be considered, with the likelihood of more to come, while Foxes Tales would also be foolish to dismiss.

WIN: POINT LONSDALE DANGER: MUJTABA

Rajinsky has kept good company since finishing third in last year’s renewal, but, while he is respected, it would take a mammoth effort from him under top weight. Falcon Eight, who was fifth last year but won the 2021 renewal off 4lb lower, is another key player with conditions in his favour. The vote, though, goes to ZOFFEE, whose most recent start resulted in a highly commendable fourth-place finish in the Cesarewitch last October. Others to note include Metier and Calling The Wind.

WIN: ZOFFEE DANGER: FALCON EIGHT

Banderas arguably sets the standard on form based on his close second in a decent maiden at Newbury last month. He can be expected to cope with the longer trip and the signs are positive. However, it’s noteworthy that nicely-bred newcomer KING OF THE PLAINS is pitched at this level on debut and the son of Roaring Lion is dangerous to underestimate. Kingsley Pride, a stablemate of the selection, also has the potential to improve in first-time blinkers.

WIN: KING OF THE PLAINS

DANGER: BANDERAS

BY YOUR SIDE has been kept busy throughout the winter months over hurdles, running on no less than 11 occasions, and has held his form particularly well, having just been denied at the Punchestown Festival last time Connections have booked Billy Loughnane and there is a lot to like about his profile back on the level. Aqwaam filled the runner-up spot off this mark at Doncaster last time and he is respected. along with Two Brothers and Claritudo.

WIN: BY YOUR SIDE

DANGER: AQWAAM

NOVEL LEGEND just missed out by one for a tilt at the Chester Cup and the four-yearold, who scored impressively at Newbury on his latest start, would have been high on many shortlists for that. As a result, James Fanshawe’s charge is expected to be too strong for these rivals Bellatrixsa is 4lb higher following her victory in this last year and enters calculations, while Zinc White is of considerable interest on his debut for Ian Williams

WIN: NOVEL LEGEND

DANGER: BELLATRIXSA

Pick a placed horse in races 1 to 6

No slip, no problem!

We want to to make putting your Placepot on as easy as possible. Simply fill out this page and show it to any member of the Tote team who will process your bet. Remember to place your bets early and check your receipt carefully.

Meeting:

Unit stake:

Total stake:

Race 2

Race 3 Race 4 Race 5

Race 1 Race 6

How To Play

Fill in the race meeting above The Placepot is available at every UK & Irish meeting. Write the racecard number of the horse(s) you want to select in the boxes above

Enter ‘FAV’ if you would like the ‘SP favourite’. Pick at least one selection in each race.

Permutation bets are available by picking more than one horse in a race. Calculate the total of perm bets by multiplying the number of selections in each race by each other The minimum total stake is £2.

18+. BeGambleaware.org

RACING PHRASE BOOK

ACCUMULATOR bet involving two or more selections in different races: winnings from one are placed on the next

ALL WEATHER RACING flat racing which takes place on an artificial surface

AMATEUR (rider) on racecards, their names are prefixed by Mr, Mrs, Captain, etc., to indicate their amateur status

ANTE-POST betting (usually on the most important races) days, weeks and even months before the race is due to take place

APPRENTICE young jockey tied by annually renewed contract to a licensed trainer while he or she is learning the business of race-riding

BACKWARD used of a horse which needs time to mature

CLAIMER of a race: a claiming race; of a jockey: an apprentice

COLT male, ungelded horse up to four years old

DAM mother of a horse

DISTANCE the length of a race: 5 furlongs is the minimum and the 4 1⁄2 miles of the Grand National the longest. Also, the margin by which a horse wins or is beaten by the horse in front: this ranges from a short head to ‘by a distance’ (more than 30 lengths); a ‘length’ is measured from the horse’s nose to the start of its tail

DRAW for flat racing only, describes a horse’s position in the starting stalls, drawn randomly the day before shortly after the horses are declared to run

EVENS or EVEN MONEY when your stake exactly equals your winnings - thus £5 at evens wins a further £5

FOAL horse of either sex from the time of its birth until 1 January the following year

FURLONG 220 yards (one eighth of a mile)

FILLY female horse up to four years old

GELDING castrated horse

GOING the description of conditions underfoot on the racecourse. Official BHA going reports progress as follows:

Heavy - soft - good to soft - good - good to firm - firm - hard

GREEN (of a horse)

inexperienced HAND unit of four inches in which a horse’s height is measured, at the shoulder

JOLLY betting parlance for the favourite in a race - the horse with the shortest odds

returned to you): thus a winning £2 bet at 2-1 on wins you £1

PADDOCK area of the racecourse incorporating the pre-parade ring, parade ring and winner’s enclosure

PATTERN the elite races, divided in Flat racing into Groups One, Two, Three and Listed, and in jumping into Grades One, Two and Three

PENALTY weight added to the allotted handicap weight of a horse which has won since the weights were originally published

SIRE father of a horse

SPREAD A PLATE when a racing plate or horseshoe becomes detached from an animal’s hoof, this sometimes causes a delay while the horse is re-shod

SPRINGER/STEAMER a horse which shortens dramatically in the betting SP/STARTING PRICE the official price of horse at which bets are settled in betting shops

STEWARDS the panel of men and women - usually a total of four - who are responsible for seeing that the Rules of Racing are adhered to STEWARDS’ ENQUIRY enquiry by the stewards into the running of a race TIC-TAC the bookmaker’s method of relaying odds information on the racecourse, by means of hand signals

JUDGE official responsible for declaring the finishing order of a race and the distances between the runners

JUVENILE two-year-old horse

MAIDEN horse which has not won a race

MARE female horse five years and over

MONKEY betting parlance for £500

OBJECTION complaint by one jockey against another regarding breach of rules during a race

ODDS ON odds where the winnings are less than the stake (which is of course

PHOTO FINISH electronic photographic device which determines minimal distances in a close finish

PLATE shoe worn by horse for racing

PLATER horse which usually runs in selling races (selling ‘plates’)

PONY betting parlance for £25

RULE 4 betting rule covering deductions made from winning bets if a horse is withdrawn after the betting market has been formed but before the ‘Under Starter’s Orders’ signal; the amount deducted depends on the price of the withdrawn horse

WEIGH IN/WEIGH OUT weighing of jockey before and after a race to ensure that the correct weight has been carried; the announcement ‘weighed in’ signals that the result is official, and all bets can be settled

YANKEE combination bet involving four selections in different races: six doubles, four trebles and one four-horse accumulator - eleven bets

YEARLING horse of either sex from 1 January to 31 December of the year following its birth.

LAST YEAR’S WINNERS

The concluding day of the 2022 Boodles May Festival saw a series of star performances.

The Andrew Balding and David Probert pairing proved to be a winning combination again in last year’s renewal of the Earl Grosvenor Handicap as Red Mirage scored in the opener. It was a hugely exciting finish as the four-year-old took the lead in the final furlong, just managing to hold on under some intense late pressure from the William Haggas trained Boosala in second, winning by just a nose.

The high-quality Group 2 Huxley Stakes saw Sir Michael Stoute’s Solid Stone clutch the win in the four-runner contest under a fine ride from jockey Ryan Moore. The gelding had been in fine form in his previous campaign, scoring back-to-back Group 3 wins at Windsor and Newbury in 2021. Ryan Moore kept his mount right on the shoulder of the leader before taking control of the contest in the final two furlongs, proving too much for his rivals.

Solid Stone

The feature race of the meeting, the Chester Cup was next and saw yet another win at this meeting by Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien as his then four-year-old Cleveland produced a fine performance under Ryan Moore to secure the win.

Despite being held up in the rear, Cleveland really began to make headway just over three furlongs out before switching right to take the lead inside the final furlong. He was really made to work for it as Andrew Balding’s Coltrane wasn’t willing to give in without a fight, but ultimately Cleveland got the win by a neck with Hugo Palmer’s Rajinsky taking third.

Baryshnikov took home the Deepbridge Handicap Stakes in the second under a fine ride from Connor Beaseley. Despite being held up in the rear throughout the early goings, the gelding was able to take control of the contest after switching left and kept on strongly to score. Cap Francais took second for Ian Williams.

The five furlongs conditions stakes looked a tough one to call on paper as well-backed duo Flaming Rib and King’s Lynn looked set to duke it out for the spoils. The market preferred King’s Lynn but it was Hugo Palmer’s Flaming Rib who prevailed as Ben Curtis led him to victory by a length and a half.

We had a big price winner in the day’s penultimate contest when Alan King’s Haseefah (20/1) produced a stunning performance to clutch the win in the apprentice handicap. She looked to be weakening late on, but George Bass did well to rally the mare and she took the race by just a neck from Kalaroun in second.

Ending the Chester Boodles May Festival in style was the Chester Plate. A consolation race for the Chester Cup, Bellatrixsa justified her strong support in the market to give trainer jockey combo Venetia Williams and Franny Norton back-to-back wins in this contest. She was always doing enough to hold off the surprise 25/1 second Dance To Paris.

Cleveland

2022 WINNERS WHO WILL WIN THIS YEAR?

RED MIRAGE

ICM Stellar Sports Earl Grosvenor Handicap Stakes

CLEVELAND

tote+ Chester Cup

Handicap Stakes

FLAMING RIB

Boodles Secret Garden Conditions Stakes

BARYSHNIKOV

Deepbridge Handicap Stakes

SOLID STONE

Irish Thoroughbred Marketing

IRE-Incentive Scheme

Huxley Stakes (Group 2)

HASEEFAH

White Oak Apprentice

Handicap Stakes

BELLATRIXSA

tote+ Chester Plate

Handicap Stakes

YESTERDAY’S WINNERS

Ladies Day

Thursday 11 May

NYMPHADORA

The CAA Stellar Handicap Stakes

HAMISH

tote.co.uk Bet £5 Get £20

Ormonde Stakes (Group 3)

CITY STREAK

TMT Group

Handicap Stakes

SURELY NOT Deepbridge Capital Handicap Stakes

SAN ANTONIO Boodles Dee Stakes (Listed Race)

HACKMAN

British EBF Ruby Anniversary Maiden Stakes

STRUTH

Halliwell Jones

Handicap Stakes

Win Without Backing a Winner!

The Tote Placepot is often described at the UK’s most enjoyable racing pool bet, the first bet of the day and a renowned raceday ritual; you simply pick a horse to place in each of the first 6 races of a meeting.

With an average placepot pay out of £300 to a £1 stake at the Chester May Festival in the last five years the Placepot is the ultimate bet for small stakes, big possibilities.

How to play the Placepot like a pro

Try perming your placepot

“Perming” your placepot simply means choosing more than one horse in each race. Whilst this increases your stake it also increases your chance of winning.

You only need one of them to make the places in each race to win the placepot, but you can also win multiple times in the same bet if you manage to get more than one placed in any of the races.

Banker Legs

The attraction of the Placepot to most bettors is the “small stake, big win” possibility and they therefore want to keep the number of selections per race and total stake to a reasonable amount.

Picking just one horse in a race (leg) allows you to keep your total lines down and potentially use more selections in another more competitive leg. Look to find a race where there is a horse you simply can’t see finishing outside the places.

Target Vulnerable Favourites

On the other hand, leaving out vulnerable favourites is the key to unlocking the big dividends the Placepot has to offer. The more favourites fail to place, the bigger the dividend is going to be. This is because the biggest share of the money in each race will be riding on the favourite.

Where to play?

The best option is to play the Placepot with Tote, the home of the Placepot. Tote.co.uk are giving ALL CHESTER CUSTOMERS A FREE PLACEPOT EVERY DAY OF THE MAY FESTIVAL.

Claim here:

PLUS when playing directly at Tote.co.uk or via the Placepot app you will receive a 10% boost on your winnings thanks to Tote+.

Remembering former Chester Race Company Director

21/10/1954 - 29/04/2023

Richard was an accomplished horseman and actively involved with the racing and breeding industry from an early age. In partnership with his wife Sally, he developed the leading UK based dual purpose thoroughbred breeding stud and sales consignment operation and in doing so created an iconic brand name within the industry

We have been fortunate to have benefitted from the dedication, passion and leadership that Richard provided to Bangor-on-Dee and Chester Race Company over the years. Richard contributed greatly to Chester Race Company, serving on the Bangor-on-Dee Committee since 2007 and as its Chair from 2016 Richard oversaw the introduction of the new multi-award winning Owners & Trainers facility and championed the increase in prize money to over £1 million.

As a Non-Executive Director of Chester Race Company for 9 years Richard provided valuable knowledge and guidance that aided the significant growth and expansion of the Company.

The loss of his presence and personality in our Parade Rings will be felt by us and so many in the racing community but especially by those who had the privilege to work closely with him.

Richard Aston

MEETAFEW MEMBERSOF OURSTABLE

CAA Stellar represents the biggest names in football and, as a member of the CAA family, we are part of the world’s leading entertainment and talent agency.

FIRST RACE 1.30

THE CAA STELLAR EARL GROSVENOR HANDICAP STAKES

(CLASS 2)

for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £40000

7f 127y

Owners Prize Money. 1st £16064, 2nd £8032, 3rd £4016, 4th £2008, 5th £1004, 6th £500, 7th £252, 8th £124. (Penalty Value £20384)

RACE DESCRIPTON

This is a seven furlongs about 127 yards handicap race for four-year-olds and upwards which have been rated from 86 to 105. In a handicap the weight that each of the runners carries is determined by their official handicap rating which is based on their level of form shown so far. The aim is to ensure competitive racing by asking the higher rated horses to carry more weight than a lower rated rival. As a guide, horses rated 40 tend to be at the lower end of the scale whilst the very best performers would be rated as high as 130.

colours no horse

1 WITCH HUNTER (FR) (13) 1-02020

Br B g Siyouni (FR) - Sorciere (IRE)

O Mr William Stobart

B Petra Bloodstock Agency Ltd

age st-lb

Draw Jockey

4 9-9 (7)

Richard Hannon, Marlborough T

TIMEFORM VIEW Produced a career best when second in a valuable minor event at Newcastle over 6f last month. Assessor reacted and he underperfomed returned to turf/7f at Haydock a fortnight ago.

2 PERCY’S LAD (GB) (217) 205104- CD

Br Ch g Sir Percy - Victory Garden

O Mr Alan Kerr

B Genesis Green Stud Ltd

TFRHHIII BHA103

5 9-4 (13)

Daniel & Claire Kubler, Lambourn T

Dane O’Neill

TIMEFORM VIEW Landed a pair of 1m handicaps at Yarmouth/Nottingham this time last year and back to form with a bang when making all over 7.6f here in August. Sound fourth at York final start.

TFRHHIII BHA98 Richard

3 BOARDMAN (GB) (13) 240-005 CD 7 9-3 (4)

Br B g Kingman - Nimble Thimble (USA)

O Mr Ball, Mr Hodkinson, Mr Malley & Ptr

B Juddmonte Farms Ltd

Tim Easterby, Malton T

Easthorpe Hall Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW ShapedwellonreturnatWolverhamptonanddidn’tenjoytherubofthegreenatallwhenmid-fieldintheLincoln. Excellent fifth trying to win a Haydock handicap for the second time a fortnight ago.

4 CROUPIER (IRE) (41) 2/3151-0 D

TFRHHHHH BHA97

4 9-2 (3)

Br B g Invincible Spirit (IRE) - Aaraamm (USA) Simon & Ed Crisford, Newmarket T

O Mr Edward J. Ware

B Mabaki Investments

Tattersalls S

TIMEFORM VIEW Met trouble when fifth to Helm Rock at Haydock next and straight back on the up when seeing off 13 rivals at Chelmsford on final start. Not judged too harshly on his defeat in heavy-ground Lincoln.

5 GWEEDORE (GB) (13) 2153-12 D

Br B g Epaulette (AUS) - Ares Choix

O Lamont Racing

B D. R. Tucker

Sean Kirrane (3)

TFRHHHHI BHA96 Ryan Moore

6 9-2 (8)

Katie Scott, Galashiels T

Lamont Racing S

TIMEFORM VIEW Won 3 times in 2022 and reappeared with a career best to land handicap at Musselburgh (7.2f) last month. Backed that up when second at Haydock so clearly in great nick.

TFRHHHII BHA96

Paul Mulrennan

Kingscote

6 AL RUFAA (FR) (24) 00420-0 6 8-13 (2)

Br B g Kingman - Clarmina (IRE)

O Mr Paul Wildes

Charlie Fellowes, Newmarket T

B J. P. J. Dubois Wildes Hotel Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Lightly raced and attitude seemed to get the better of him when trained by John Gosden. Changed hands for £50,000 but hood left off and he was never involved at Newmarket.

TFRHHHII BHA93 Rossa Ryan

7 HEAT OF THE MOMENT (GB) (24) 1/600-5 4 8-13 (9)

Br Ch f Bobby’s Kitten (USA) - Heat of The Night Jane Chapple-Hyam, Newmarket T

O Miss K. Rausing

B Miss K. Rausing

TIMEFORM VIEW Promisingstarttohercareerwhenlandinga6fYarmouthnoviceonsole2-y-ostart.Pitchedintopatterncompany for her 3 starts last season and reappearance run suggests her mark is slightly too high.

TFRHHHII BHA93 Ben Curtis

8 RED MIRAGE (IRE) (233) 113244- CD 5 8-12 (10)

Br Ch g Showcasing - Duchess Dora (IRE) John Quinn, Malton T

O RaceShare - Red Mirage

B Kingsley Park Ltd

Raceshare, JJ Quinn Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Hit the ground running for Andrew Balding, supplementing his AW win in this race a year ago. Solid efforts in defeat since and joined another good yard. Very capable fresh.

TFRHHHII BHA92 Jason Hart

9 REVICH (IRE) (20) 0030-03 CD 7 8-12 (6)

Br B g Requinto (IRE) - Kathleen Rafferty (IRE) Richard Spencer, Newmarket T

O Middleham Park LXVII & Phil Cunningham

B Mr T. Jones Rebel Racing Ltd, Direct Commercial Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Severalexcellentefforts despitefailingtowinin2022 Probablyneeded therunwhenninth inLincolnatDoncaster on reappearance and duly stepped up on that when third at Newbury 3 weeks ago.

TFRHHHII BHA92 Jim Crowley

10 STREET KID (IRE) (37) 224-624

5 8-12 (11)

Newmarket

Br Ch g Street Boss (USA) - Brushed Gold (USA) Kevin Philippart de Foy, Newmarket T

O Run Away Racing Galtee More Syndicate

B Tinnakill Bloodstock KPF Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW

NON-RUNNER

11 ROYAL PLEASURE (IRE) (211) 4/13000-

TFRIIIII BHA92

5 8-10 (5)

Br B g Kingman - Merry Jaunt (USA) Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero, Malpas T

O Stockton Hall Farm Racing

B Floors Farming, Whitley & Newbyth Studs Swansway S

TIMEFORM VIEW Largely consistent last winter and produced a career best when scoring at Chelmsford in February 2022. Didn’t kick on as may have been expected last year but record fresh is excellent.

12 FFION (GB) (197) 005010- C

Br B m Sepoy (AUS) - Exceedingly

O Mr Alan Gray

B Alan & Susie Gray

TFRHHHII BHA90 Franny Norton

6 8-8 (12)

David Loughnane, Tern Hill T

Dave Loughnane Racing S

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful over 7f at this meeting a year ago and better than ever when landing 12-runner contest back here in September. No impact in listed level the following month but this more realistic.

13 WOBWOBWOB (IRE) (13) 3316-42

Br B g Prince of Lir (IRE) - Ishimagic

O Ontoawinner, Andy Finneran racing

B Golden Vale Stud

TFRHHHII BHA88 Hollie Doyle

5 8-6 (1)

Adrian Keatley, Malton T

www.ontoawinner.net S

TIMEFORM VIEW Catterick winner in October and didn’t do a lot wrong when second of 7 at Leicester a fortnight ago. Same mark here and stall one an obvious plus.

TFRHHHHI BHA86 L. F. Roche

DECLARED RUNNERS 13 2022: RED MIRAGE (IRE) 4 8 9 David Probert 6-1 (Andrew Balding) 10 ran

Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 11. Hood worn by No. 11. Visor worn by No. 9.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 1. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 11.

Stewards Note:

WITCH HUNTER: Following its run on 29/4/2023 it was reported that the horse was slowly away.

Probable S.P.’s: 9-2 Boardman (GB), 13-2 Croupier (IRE), Revich (IRE), 15-2 Gweedore (GB), Wobwobwob (IRE), 8-1 Ffion (GB), 9-1 Red Mirage (IRE), 12-1 Al Rufaa (FR), 14-1 Heat of The Moment (GB), Royal Pleasure (IRE), 16-1 Witch Hunter (FR), Percy’s Lad (GB)

PLAY SMARTER

BOARDMAN has plenty of winning spring form to his name, including at this venue, and he should be spot on for this following an eye-catching run from a poor track position at Haydock a fortnight ago. He has plenty to recommend him, with Wobwobwob (from stall 1) and Croupier feared most.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.BOARDMAN 2.WOBWOBWOB (IRE) 3.CROUPIER (IRE)

Don’t forget to bet on the 1:40 at MARKET RASEN and 1:50 at ASCOT.

POSITION OF STALLS

1m 2f & 2m 2f - Outside, All other races - Inside

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or that and

For all that you’ve done continue to do in to keep our doors

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BUILD YOUR FUTURE

SECOND RACE 2.05

THE PRECISION FACADES HANDICAP STAKES

(CLASS 2)

for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £40000

1m 2f 70y

Owners Prize Money. 1st £16064, 2nd £8032, 3rd £4016, 4th £2008, 5th £1004, 6th £500, 7th £252, 8th £124. (Penalty Value £20384)

RACE DESCRIPTON

This is a one mile, two furlongs about 70 yards handicap race for four-year-olds and upwards which have been rated from 86 to 105. To qualify for a handicap rating horses must have run at least three times in a Flat race in Britain, or have run in no more than two Flat races run in Britain and won at least one of them. This rating then dictates the weight to be carried in a handicap In simple terms a horse rated 105 in this particular race would be required to carry 5lb more than a rival rated 100.

colours no horse

1 CERTAIN LAD (GB) (22) 6//2003-0 D 7 9-11 (6)

Br B g Clodovil (IRE) - Chelsey Jayne (IRE)

O Mr C. R. Hirst

B Barry Walters

TIMEFORM VIEW

Jack Channon, West Ilsley T

Jack Channon Racing Limited S

Group3winnerin2020.MissedfollowingyearbutshowedheretainsallhisoldabilitywhenthirdinRoseofLancaster

Stakes at Haydock in August. Below that in a listed event at Longchamp on reappearance.

TFRHHHII BHA107 George Bass (3)

2 SAVVY VICTORY (IRE) (41) 62153-5 D 4 9-8 (1)

Br B c New Bay - Highlands Queen (FR) S. P. C. Woods, Newmarket T

O Mr. Julian Hui

B Ballylinch Stud Brook Stud Bloodstock Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Resumed winning ways in a small-field Goodwood handicap (9.9f) in August. Excellent fifth in the Cambridgeshire next time and shaped encouragingly after 5 months off in listed race at Kempton on return.

TFRHHHHI BHA104 Ryan Moore

3 PRIDE OF AMERICA (FR) (50) 110-146 CD 6 9-6 (4)

Br B g American Post - Atarfe (IRE)

O Haven’t A Pot, D. MacAuliffe & Anoj Don

B Laurent Dulong & Yannick Dulong

Amy Murphy, Newmarket T

Class1Personnel, Amy Murphy Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW C&D winner who enhanced fine strike rate for this yard with a career-best display when scoring after 7 months off at Kempton (11f) in January. Not quite in same form since.

TFRHHHHI BHA102 Hollie Doyle

4 MAKSUD (GB) (217) 145220- D 4 9-5 (8)

Br B g Golden Horn - Althania (USA)

O Thurloe Thoroughbreds LIV

B Shadwell Estate Company Limited

Hughie Morrison, East Ilsley T

TIMEFORM VIEW GoodimpressionwhenwinningondebutatWindsorandhaspostedusefuleffortsindefeatsince,includingsecond in listed race at the same course (11.4f) in August. Didn’t fire at Newmarket on final outing.

TFRHHHII BHA101 Jason Hart

5 GROUNDBREAKER (GER) (237) 144234- D 4 9-3 (5)

Br B g Oasis Dream - Guajara (GER)

O Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum

B Stiftung Gestut Fahrhof

Andrew Balding, Kingsclere T

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful performer who put his best effort to date when third in a Windsor listed event in August. Backed that up returned to handicap company when fourth at Newbury on final outing and is capable fresh

TFRHHHHH BHA99 Oisin Murphy

6 LORD PROTECTOR (GER) (17) 4/6150-0 D 5 9-0 (9)

Br B or Br g Pastorius (GER) - Lady Jacamira (GER) Ralph Beckett, Kimpton Down T

O Quantum Leap Racing X & Partner

B Gestut Karlshof R M Beckett Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Back to winning ways in 1 1/4m Sandown handicap last June. Fifth of 18 at Glorious Goodwood next time, but was well held at the Ebor meeting on final 2022 start and modest on reappearance at Epsom.

TFRHHHII BHA96 Rossa Ryan

7 FANTASTIC FOX (GB) (17) 53020-4

5 8-13 (2)

Br Ch g Frankel - Vasilia Roger Varian, Newmarket T

O King Power Racing Co Ltd

B Mr V. I. Araci King Power International Co Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Back on track when runner-up on heavy ground over this trip at Newbury last October and had an excuse when below form on AW final start. Ran respectably when fourth at Epsom (10.1f) on return.

TFRHHHII BHA95 Jack Mitchell

8 CAP FRANCAIS (GB) (32) 12000-0

7 8-10 (3)

Br B g Frankel - Miss Cap Ferrat Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

O Coomes Parmar Turner Dale

B J. L. C. Pearce Tote S

TIMEFORM VIEW Has a good record fresh but was well held on reappearance at Kempton last month and needs to leave that well behind to figure.

TFRHHIII BHA92 Richard Kingscote

9 BARYSHNIKOV (GB) (18) 1300-03 CD 7 8-9 (7)

Br Ch g Mastercraftsman (IRE) - Tara Moon David & Nicola Barron, Thirsk T

O Mr John Knotts & Partner

B M. H. and Mrs G. Tourle Tote S

TIMEFORM VIEW Modest towards the end of last year but stepped up plenty on his reappearance when third inhandicap at Pontefract (10f) 18 days ago. Won this race last year off this mark and needs taking seriously.

10 ZEALANDIA (FR) (18) 2430/1-0

TFRHHHHI BHA91 Billy Loughnane (3)

6 8-4 (10)

Br B g Sea The Moon (GER) - Belle Ambre Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

O Mr Ian Williams

B S.A.S. Elevage Du Haras de Bourgeauville

TIMEFORM VIEW French recruit who returned from 7 months off to spring a 33/1 surprise on his York stable debut last June. Well held at Pontefract after 11 months off only start since.

DECLARED RUNNERS 10 2022: BARYSHNIKOV 6 8 9 Connor Beasley 5-2 (David & Nicola Barron) 7 ran Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 10. Tongue Strap worn by No. 3. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 5. Running for the first time since Gelding No. 5. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 3.

Stewards Note:

SAVVY VICTORY: Following its run on 1/4/2023 it was reported that the horse was denied a clear run late-on.

LORD PROTECTOR: Following its run on 25/4/2023 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run.

Probable S.P.’s: 5-1 Lord Protector (GER), Fantastic Fox (GB), Baryshnikov (GB), 13-2 Savvy Victory (IRE), Pride of America (FR), 15-2 Groundbreaker (GER), 9-1 Certain Lad (GB), Maksud (GB), 14-1 Cap Francais (GB), Zealandia (FR)

PLAY SMARTER

GROUNDBREAKER proved himself better than ever on his final 2 starts last year and appeals as the type who could be even better at 4 yrs, so he looks to have plenty going for him on his return, especially with Oisin Murphy booked. Savvy Victory is another who may raise his game further this season, with low-mileage 6-y-o Pride of America also respected back in handicap company.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.GROUNDBREAKER (GER) 2.SAVVY VICTORY (IRE) 3.PRIDE OF AMERICA (FR)

Don’t forget to bet on the 2:15 at MARKET RASEN and 2:25 at ASCOT.

TFRHHIII BHA84 Saffie Osborne

NAMED after a small village nine miles south-east of Chester racecourse, the Huxley Stakes is the highest-quality race staged during the three-day Boodles May Festival. It is a Group 2 boasting a total prize fund of £120,000, meaning it ranks behind only the tote+ Chester Cup in terms of its monetary value.

The inaugural edition in 1999 was won, somewhat ironically, by a horse called Chester House. Trained by Sir Michael Stoute and ridden by Kieren Fallon, he won Sandown’s Brigadier Gerard Stakes on his next start. But it was after Chester House was switched to renowned American trainer Bobby Frankel that he enjoyed his most significant success, in the Arlington Million in Chicago in 2000, on what would prove to be a glorious swansong to his career.

A decade later, the John Gosden-trained Debussy went one better than Chester House by winning the Huxley Stakes and the Arlington Million in the same season.

HUXLEY STAKES HISTORY

Chester was a course which brought out the best in Debussy. In two other visits here, he finished third to Golden Sword in the 2009 Chester Vase, as well as notching the last of his six career wins in the Stand Cup, a Listed race, in September 2011.

Only two horses have won this race on multiple occasions. Maraahel secured consecutive victories in 2007, 2008 and 2009, making him the single most successful horse to have run in the Huxley Stakes and contributing three of Stoute’s record of six wins as a trainer. Forest Ranger is the only other horse to grab the glory more than once, coming home in front in 2018 and 2019 for Malton trainer Richard Fahey and jockey Tony Hamilton.

However, perhaps the Huxley Stakes’ most distinguished graduate is Noble Mission. Or at least he should be. The winner in 2014 for Sir Henry Cecil’s widow Lady Cecil, Noble Mission was all too often remembered for being the

Solid Stone

year-younger brother of the equine phenomenon that was Frankel, rather than for his own achievements on the track.

Undeniably a late-bloomer, Noble Mission’s final year was his breakthrough one at the top level. After inflicting another defeat on old rival Telescope here in the Huxley Stakes, Noble Mission notched a belated first Grade 1 victory less than three weeks later in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh in Ireland.

The rigours of international travel were no barrier to further success for Noble Mission. During a jet-set summer, Noble Mission won a second Group 1 in France and finished a neck runner-up in another in Germany. He returned to Britain and bowed out on a high that autumn by winning his third Group 1 of the year in the Champion Stakes at Ascot with a gutsy display on heavy ground.

FACT FILE

Conditions: 4-y-o and upwards

Race distance: 1m 2f about 70yds

Prize money: £120,000 total prize fund

Previous Winners

2012

MARCRET

Ryan Moore / Marco Botti

2.19.30

2013

DANADANA

Kieren Fallon / Luca Cumani

2:11.61

2014

NOBLE MISSION

James Doyle / Lady Cecil

2:13.11

2015

MAVERICK WAVE

William Buick / John Gosden

2:15.30

2016

CANNOCK CHASE

Ryan Moore / Sir Michael Stoute

2:11.65

2017

DEAUVILLE

Ryan Moore / Aidan O’Brien

2:10.22

2018

MAVERICK WAVE

Tony Hamilton / Richard Fahey

2:08.39

2019

FOREST RANGER

Tony Hamilton / Richard Fahey

2:16.26

2021

ARMORY

Ryan Moore / Aidan O’Brien

2:11.64

2022

SOLID STONE

Ryan Moore / Sir Michael Stoute

2:07.79

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LAST YEAR’S HUXLEY STAKES

A small but select field went to post for last year’s renewal of the Group 2 Huxley Stakes. There may have been just the four runners, but it still looked set to be a great contest going into it.

The favourite was the Gosden trained Megallan. Ridden on the day by Frankie Dettori, he had been battered in the market, all the way down to 5/6. There was good reason for the support too after running out a comfortable winner in a Salisbury Group 3 in August 2021, and a similarly impressive second in the Earl Of Sefton Stakes at Newmarket a month before this race. He arrived here in fine fettle.

Solid Stone had ended his previous season in red hot form. Back-to-back Group 3 successes at Windsor and Newbury in 2021 had shown that he is a horse of real quality and his struggles in the Neom Turf Cup at the Saudi Cup meeting in Riyadh can easily be overlooked and so he found plenty of support in the market as well. Majestic Dawn’s impressive runner-up finish in a

Newmarket listed race in October meant he could not be easily discounted either.

It was Majestic Dawn who took the lead from the start, racing a touch more freely than trainers Paul & Oliver Cole would have liked and setting a quick tempo. Solid Stone was more than happy to match this early pace as well, tracking the gelding all the way and keeping on the pressure. Megallan and the Mick Channon trained Certain Lad held up behind, perhaps unwilling to match the pace of the leading pair.

As they reached the final two furlongs, Majestic Dawn began to weaken and was quickly caught by Solid Stone, the gelding taking the lead before storming to a comfortable three length victory. Certain Lad pushed on late and despite being no match for the winner, did very well to take second from the hotly fancied Megallan.

Solid Stone was unable to convert this form into further success but Megallan bounced back well to take to Group 3 Cazoo Diomed Stakes at Epsom the following month.

Solid Stone

WIN €10,000 BUY IRISH

The IRE Incentive Scheme awards €10,000 bonuses to owners of Irish-breds. To spend on Irishbreds at Irish sales.

Over €2.5m already awarded

Over 200 races in 2023

Over €10m in sales generated

www.itm.ie/IRE_Incentive

Flat & National Hunt supported

THIRD RACE 2.40

THE IRE-INCENTIVE, IT PAYS TO BUY IRISH HUXLEY STAKES (CLASS 1) (Group 2) for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £120000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £52800, 2nd £21768, 3rd £10884, 4th £5448, 5th £2724, 6th £1356. (Penalty Value £67224)

RACE DESCRIPTON

1m 2f 70y

This one mile, two furlongs about 70 yards race for four-year-olds and upwards is a Group 2 contest and will attract some high-class middle distance performers. Unlike in a handicap when a horse’s official rating reflects the weight that they must carry, in a Group 2 all runners carry the same weight regardless of any previous form In this case colts and geldings carry 9st 3lb and fillies 9st, although penalties are then awarded to horses that have already won above a certain level - 3lb for a Group 2 victory or 5lb for a Group 1 success.

colours no horse

1 FOXES TALES (IRE) (41) 4640-31 D

Br B g Zoffany (IRE) - Starfish (IRE)

O King Power Racing Co Ltd

B Manister House Stud

5 9-3 (1)

Andrew Balding, Kingsclere T

King Power International Co Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Drew a blank last year but stepped up on his reappearance third in Winter Derby at Lingfield when impressively landing listed Magnolia Stakes at Kempton (10f) just under 6 weeks ago.

Jockey

TFRHHHHI BHA111 Oisin Murphy

2 LAYFAYETTE (IRE) (11) 5000-32 D 6 9-3 (5)

Br Br g French Navy - Scala Romana (IRE)

O Mrs Patricia Hunt

B Matthew Duffy

Noel Meade, Ireland T

TIMEFORM VIEW Rattled off a quick-fire hat-trick on return in 2022 and looked strong when attempting to make it consecutive wins in the Mooresbridge Stakes at the Curragh (10f, soft) 11 days ago.

TFRHHIII BHA106 Colin Keane

3 MUJTABA (GB) (202) 1/04101- C D

Br B g Dubawi (IRE) - Majmu (AUS)

O Shadwell Estate Company Ltd

B Shadwell Estate Company Limited

5 9-3 (4)

William Haggas, Newmarket T

TIMEFORM VIEW Back on track when landing a 1 1/4m Doncaster handicap in good style in September and put up a very smart effort when taking handicap by 7 lengths at Newbury (10f, heavy) 6 months ago.

TFRHHHHH BHA114 Jim Crowley

4 POINT LONSDALE (IRE) (26) 1112/0-1 D

Br B c Australia - Sweepstake (IRE)

O D.Smith,Mrs J.Magnier,M.Tabor,Westerberg

B Epona Bloodstock Ltd

4 9-3 (3)

Aidan O’Brien, Ireland T

TIMEFORM VIEW Leadingjuvenilein2021,winning3GroupracesandsecondinGroup1NationalStakes.Wellheldinthe2000Guineas on his sole 3-y-o start but landed the Alleged Stakes at the Curragh (10f, heavy) 26 days ago.

TFRHHHHI BHA113 Ryan Moore

5 POKER FACE (IRE) (24) 111-2 D

4 9-3 (2)

Br B g Fastnet Rock (AUS) - Stars At Night (IRE) Simon & Ed Crisford, Newmarket T

O Mr Edward J. Ware

B Rockhart Trading Ltd Tattersalls S

TIMEFORM VIEW Most progressive last autumn, winning all 3, including on handicap debut at Pontefract. Lost unbeaten upped markedly in grade when runner-up in Earl Of Sefton at Newmarket (9f, soft) last month.

TFRHHHII BHA108 Jamie Spencer

6 ROYAL CHAMPION (IRE) (209) 414310- D 5 9-3 (6)

Br B g Shamardal (USA) - Emirates Queen

O Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum

B Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum

Roger Varian, Newmarket T

TIMEFORM VIEW Boasted a progressive profile last term, turning what looked a competitive listed Doonside Cup into a rout at Ayr in September. Was amiss in Champion Stakes at Ascot (10f, good to soft) 6 months ago.

TFRHHHII BHA111 Jack Mitchell

DECLARED RUNNERS 6 2022: SOLID STONE (IRE) 6 9 3 Ryan Moore 4-1 (Sir Michael Stoute) 4 ran Tongue Strap worn by No. 3.

Stewards Note:

ROYAL CHAMPION: Following its run on 15/10/2022 it was reported that the horse had an arrythmia and ended lame.

Probable S.P.’s: 6-4 Point Lonsdale (IRE), 7-2 Mujtaba (GB), 9-2 Foxes Tales (IRE), 5-1 Poker Face (IRE), 10-1 Royal Champion (IRE), 12-1 Layfayette (IRE)

PLAY SMARTER

A customary small field for this Group 2 contest but it promises to be a cracker, MUJTABA getting the verdict to make his first outing at pattern level a winning one after his demolition job in a handicap at Newbury 6 months ago. Point Lonsdale wasted no time getting back on the up when making a winning return at the Curragh last month, so he’s put forward as the main danger, with recent Kempton scorer Foxes Tales taken to fill out third spot.

Don’t forget to bet on the 2:50 at MARKET RASEN and 3:00 at ASCOT.

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PEACE OF MINeD A Story Of Provenance.

For some years now, Boodles have worked to build a special connection with the unique place that is the Cullinan Mine: source of the largest rough diamond ever discovered: the 3,106 carat Cullinan diamond. It yielded Cullinan I and Cullinan II – the ‘Greater and Lesser Stars of Africa’ – both of which are now among the Crown Jewels.

They featured during Her Majesty The Queen’s Coronation on 2 June 1953, in the Sovereign’s Sceptre and the Imperial State Crown. And like those diamonds, the remarkable stones in this collection come straight from the Cullinan Mine and are thoroughly traceable. Coinciding with The King’s Coronation, this collection represents a true privilege.

1977 Was a Significant Year

First and foremost, The Queen’s Silver Jubilee: 25 years since Her Majesty’s Accession. And for Boodles, their first trip to the Cullinan Mine. While the people of Britain sang ‘God Save The Queen’, Boodles late Chairman, Anthony Wainwright, and his wife Jean donned spotless white boilersuits and travelled hundreds of metres below ground. They were travelling at the invitation of the World Diamond Council.

Anthony Wainwright’s youngest son – Boodles Managing Director, Michael Wainwright, his wife Annie – and their daughter Honour, now Boodles Marketing Manager – visited the Cullinan Mine, in South Africa, to literally follow in Anthony’s footsteps. Many of the rough stones they returned with became the jewellery in this collection.

When you wear a piece from this collection, you’ll be adding your story to one which started more than a

century ago – back in January 1905, when what is still the biggest rough diamond ever discovered was found at the Cullinan Mine in South Africa. At an incredible 3,106 carats, this was the diamond later cut to yield the 530.2 carat ‘Great Star of Africa’, and the 317 carat ‘Lesser Star of Africa’ – both now in the British Crown Jewels, visible in the Sovereign’s Sceptre and Imperial State Crown respectively So as one anniversary year is echoed by another, and we welcome a new monarch, we celebrate

as always

with diamonds.

As a diamond lover, you’ve probably heard of the ‘four C’s’ –cut, colour, clarity and carat. Boodles like to add a fifth: Clive. Clive is our master diamond cutter, and responsible for helping Director of Precious Gemstones, Jody Wainwright, create some of our most beautiful diamonds. It’s Clive’s expert eye – and guiding hand – that guarantees a diamond’s perfect finish.

From Mine, To You

It all begins with a ‘eureka’ moment: a sparkle is spotted amid the rock dust; a flash of fire, shimmering in the dark. The team in South Africa know what Boodles are looking for: high colour, high purity ‘roughs’. A deal is done, and the stone is on its way to Boodles.

The term ‘polishing’ does Clive’s work an injustice; few realise it can take months to polish some Boodles diamonds. It’s not unheard of for him to spend a full day polishing an important diamond’s ‘table’ (the top facet of the diamond) alone. After a quick trip to New York and back for GIA certification, the finished diamond is in London once more, to be placed in its setting. Then finally, it’s over to you. Which is of course where the next chapter – and your own story – begins.

The feature race of the 2022 Boodles May Festival saw the Aidan O’Brien / Ryan Moore connection strike again, continuing their hot streak throughout this festival.

It was Cleveland who scored the victory with Ryan Moore guiding him home in the two miles, two and a half furlongs contest, staying on well to win by a neck.

His form going into this contest had been a bit inconsistent, being unable to place in three of his four prior starts. The only outlier being a comfortable win in a Curragh maiden in November 2020, so he wasn’t exactly a standout in the betting. Market support was split

between the two joint favourites, Falcon Eight and Coltrane.

Dermot Weld’s Falcon Eight had won this contest in 2021 in convincing fashion and was understandably catching the eye of many. The gelding had recently been trying his hand over the jumps, winning a maiden at Thurles before a solid showing when third in a Grade 2 at Fairyhouse. He looked primed to successfully defend his crown. Andrew Balding’s Coltrane

had struggled to live up to some of his first season promise in the lead up to this contest, his best results in the run-in being a pair of seconds on the AW at Kempton but he still saw lots of support with many tipping him to rediscover his old form.

Cleveland was slowly away, getting held up in the rear of the field as the likes of Coltrane and the Hugo Palmer trained Rajinsky took a keen hold of the race. Solent Gateway took the lead, pulling hard and setting a pace he was unable to keep up. Jockey Ben Curtis saying post-race that the gelding ran too free. This allowed Coltrane to take control of the contest around five

LAST YEAR’S CHESTER CUP

furlongs from the finish as the race built to its conclusion.

Despite being held up early on, Cleveland was travelling very well, and really began to push on inside the final three furlongs. Moore switched his mount to the right, taking the lead inside the final furlong staying on well to take the win from Coltrane. Andrew Balding’s gelding fought hard but was just held and took home second with the prominent Rajinsky taking third after a fine ride from Harry Davies. Falcon Eight found himself outpaced this year and was unable to make an impression on the finish, only managing fifth.

Win Without Backing a Winner!

The Tote Placepot is often described at the UK’s most enjoyable racing pool bet, the first bet of the day and a renowned raceday ritual; you simply pick a horse to place in each of the first 6 races of a meeting.

With an average placepot pay out of £300 to a £1 stake at the Chester May Festival in the last five years the Placepot is the ultimate bet for small stakes, big possibilities.

How to play the Placepot like a pro

Try perming your placepot

“Perming” your placepot simply means choosing more than one horse in each race. Whilst this increases your stake it also increases your chance of winning.

You only need one of them to make the places in each race to win the placepot, but you can also win multiple times in the same bet if you manage to get more than one placed in any of the races.

Banker Legs

The attraction of the Placepot to most bettors is the “small stake, big win” possibility and they therefore want to keep the number of selections per race and total stake to a reasonable amount.

Picking just one horse in a race (leg) allows you to keep your total lines down and potentially use more selections in another more competitive leg. Look to find a race where there is a horse you simply can’t see finishing outside the places.

Target Vulnerable Favourites

On the other hand, leaving out vulnerable favourites is the key to unlocking the big dividends the Placepot has to offer. The more favourites fail to place, the bigger the dividend is going to be. This is because the biggest share of the money in each race will be riding on the favourite.

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Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear ASHOKA

FIFTH RACE 3.45

THE BOODLES DARLEY MAIDEN STAKES

(CLASS 2) (GBB RACE)

for maiden three yrs old

Total prize fund £40000

Owners Prize Money. 1st £16064, 2nd £8032, 3rd £4016, 4th £2008, 5th £1004, 6th £500. (Penalty Value £20384)

RACE DESCRIPTON

1m 4f 63y

This one mile, four furlongs and 63 yards contest for three-year-olds is a maiden stakes - a race for horses that have yet to record a racecourse victory There are a variety of reasons why the older horses in this race could still be maidens. Stoutly bred horses are unlikely to be seen at their best over the shorter distances of their juvenile season whilst a setback or injury can curtail even the most precociously bred horse’s two-year-old career

colours no horse st-lb Draw Jockey

1 BANDERAS (IRE) (20) 5-32

9-7 (6)

Br Ch c Lope de Vega (IRE) - Glamorous Approach (IRE) Michael Bell, Newmarket T

O OTI Racing, Ballylinch Stud and Partner

B Ballylinch Stud

Michael Bell Racing S

TIMEFORM VIEW Shaped well on debut last season and confirmed that encouragement at the second attempt with an improved second in a maiden at Newbury last time. Definite claims with Moore booked.

2 CHRONOGRAPH (GB) (98) 323

TFRHHHHI BHA80 Ryan Moore

9-7 (2)

Br Ch g Recorder - Basque Beauty Hugo Palmer, Malpas T

O Isa Salman Al Khalifa

B Rachel Countess of Coventry

Highclere Thoroughbred Racing S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fair form on each of his 3 outings earlier this year. Has been gelded in the 3 months he’s been off and longer trip should suit, so he’s worthy of respect.

3 KING OF THE PLAINS (IRE) (-)

Br B c Roaring Lion (USA) - Golden Lilac (IRE)

O Qatar Racing Limited

B Ammerland Verwaltung GmbH & Co.KG

TFRHHHII BHA78 Harry Davies

9-7 (5)

Charlie Johnston, Middleham T

Tweenhills Farm & Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW €85,000 yearling. Dam winner up to 10.5f (2-y-o 1m winner), including Poule d’Essai des Pouliches, out of Prix du Moulin de Longchamp winner Grey Lilas. Notable newcomer.

4 KINGSLEY PRIDE (GB) (22) 6222-3 BF

Br Gr g Roaring Lion (USA) - Whirly Bird

O Kingsley Park 28 - Gold

B Woodcote Stud Ltd

TFRHHHHI BHAOisin Murphy

9-7 (3)

Charlie Johnston, Middleham T

Johnston Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Looked awkward as a juvenile and returned with a modest display at Ripon

recently. Needs blinkers to have a positive effect.

5 MEDIEVAL GOLD (GB) (-)

Br Bl c Camelot - Mill Springs

O Teme Valley & Rebecca Philipps

B Mrs Rebecca Philipps

TFRHHHII BHA81 Franny Norton

9-7 (4)

William Haggas, Newmarket T

Somerville Lodge Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Half-brother to useful winner up to 1 1/4m Morning Poem. Dam, 1 1/2m-1 3/4m winner who stayed 2 1/2m, half-sister to smart 1m-1 1/4m winner Monturani. Very interesting newcomer.

TFRHHHHH BHARichard Kingscote

Br Br f Sea The Stars (IRE) - Wordless (IRE)

O Denford Stud

B Denford Stud Ltd

Andrew Balding, Kingsclere T

TIMEFORM VIEW Little encouragement in his debut at Newbury 3 weeks ago and looks more one for the longer term. TFRHIIII BHA- Hollie Doyle

DECLARED RUNNERS 6

2022: NO CORRESPONDING RACE LAST YEAR

Blinkers worn first time by No. 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 2.

Running for the first time since Gelding No. 2.

Probable S.P.’s: 5-2 Banderas (IRE), 10-3 Medieval Gold (GB), 4-1 Chronograph (GB), 5-1 Kingsley Pride (GB), 7-1 King of The Plains (IRE), 11-1 Night At Sea (GB)

PLAY SMARTER

MEDIEVAL GOLD has an excellent middle-distance pedigree and is in good hands, so he’s worth chancing in his bid to make a winning start. Banderas is an obvious danger after an improved showing at Newbury and King of The Plains is another noteworthy newcomer.

Don’t forget to bet on the 4:00 at MARKET RASEN and 4:10 at ASCOT.

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares.

OF THE PLAINS (IRE)

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Race Goers. Chester loves back. ce Goer Love it back. it

Respect the city and neighbours when leaving the racecourse.

SIXTH RACE 4.20

THE

WHITE

OAK

APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES

(CLASS 4) for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £20000

1m 4f 63y

Owners Prize Money. 1st £8032, 2nd £4016, 3rd £2008, 4th £1004, 5th £502, 6th £250, 7th £126, 8th £62. (Penalty Value £10192) 7 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10.

RACE DESCRIPTON

This is a one mile, four furlongs about 63 yards handicap race for four-year-olds and upwards which have been rated from 61 to 80. Once a horse has qualified for a handicap rating this is regularly reassessed. A below-par effort could result in a reduced rating whilst a strong performance could see the rating increased. Occasionally, horses are entered to race before their handicap rating has been reviewed and so to avoid recent winners being un-penalised they are allotted a mandatory penalty, which is based on the age of the horse in this race.

colours no horse

1 AUSTRALIAN ANGEL (GB) (13) 21203-4 4 10-0 (10)

Br Ch f Australia - Angel Terrace (USA) Andrew Balding, Kingsclere T

O Mr George Strawbridge

B George Strawbridge

TIMEFORM VIEW

Balding, Kingsclere

TFRIIIII BHA80

2 STATE LEGEND (IRE) (17) 1403-00 D 4 10-0 (6)

Br B g Churchill (IRE) - Zibeling (IRE) Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

O Dove Valley Holdings Ltd

B Rifa Mustang Europe Ltd

SJP Group Midlands Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful 3 times at up to 12f last year. Only minor promise in juvenile/novice hurdles since and he struggled to make an impact tackling heavy ground for the first time at Epsom (12f) 17 days ago.

3 DAHEER (USA) (10) 36-5232

TFRHHIII BHA80 Joe Leavy (7)

6 9-12 (2)

Br Ch g Speightstown (USA) - Elraazy (USA) Mark Loughnane, Kidderminster T

O The Likely Lads

B Shadwell Farm LLC

TIMEFORM VIEW All 5 career victories have come at Wolverhampton but he did run well having rare turf outing when third over 10f here last June. Arrives here fit from trio of placed efforts on AW in recent months

TFRHHHII BHA78 (+1) Sean Kirrane

4 BRASCA (GB) (76) 0405-44 D

7 9-12 (3)

Br Ch g Nathaniel (IRE) - Regalline (IRE) Mark Loughnane, Kidderminster T

O Over The Moon Racing

B Mrs C. R. Philipson & Lofts Hall Stud

M J Refrigeration Transport Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Four-time winner earlier in career and he ran respectably without being ideally placed when fourth in Chelmsford handicap (13.3f) Absent since though.

5 GREYSTOKE (GB) (42) 44-3222

Br B g Sixties Icon - Siri

O Robert & Lucy Dickinson

B G Hedley & Mike Channon Bloodstock Ltd

TFRHHHII BHA78 George Eddery (7)

5 9-11 (1)

Alan King, Barbury Castle T

Goodwin Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW ScoredoverhurdlesatNewtonAbbot(16.7f)12monthsago.Winlesssincebutcomeshereonthebackofastring of solid efforts on AW, runner-up at Southwell (12f) in March. Yard took this 12 months ago.

TFRHHHHI BHA77 Benoit de la Sayette

6 HEART OF SOUL (IRE) (230) 100400- CD 8 9-11 (16)

Br B g Makfi - Hadrian’s Waltz (IRE) Patrick Morris, Prescot T

O Patrick Morris

B Ecurie La Vallee Martigny

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple C&D winner who landed handicaps at Hamilton/Kempton this time last year. Proved more miss than hit thereafter, well held tackling 14f here on final outing in September.

TFRHHIII BHA77 Charlie Todd

7 TWO BROTHERS (GB) (23) 2223-41 D 5 9-11 (4)

Br B g Sir Percy - Blandish (USA) Michael & David Easterby, Sheriff Hutton T

O Thompson Brothers

B Theakston Stud

TIMEFORM VIEW Knocked on the door several times last term and he duly shed the maiden tag in comfortable style at Beverley (12f) last month, leading under 2f out and soon clear. This tougher but he’s one to consider.

TFRHHHHI BHA77 Adam Farragher

8 AQWAAM (GB) (6) 1005-62 D 5 9-10 (7)

Br Gr g Sea The Stars (IRE) - Aghaany Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

O Mr Patrick Kelly

B Shadwell Estate Company Limited Corbally Holdings Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Muchimprovedwhenopeninghis account in heavygroundat Galway(11.8f) lastsummer.Mixedbagthereafter but he’s returned in good heart, runner-up at Doncaster (11.9f, heavy) 6 days ago.

9 BY YOUR SIDE (GB) (207) 100210- 4 9-9 (12)

Br B g Lope de Vega (IRE) - Indiscrete (FR) Gordon Elliott, Ireland T

O Mr Kieron Gammell

B Stone Roses Bloodstock Gordon Elliott S

TIMEFORM VIEW Steadily progressive in handicaps last term, winning 3 times at up to 9f. Kept busy over hurdles, off the mark at Naas in March and running best race yet when second in big-field Punchestown handicap 2 weeks ago.

10 CLARITUDO (GB) (31) 14553-1 D

Br B g Nathaniel (IRE) - Clarentine

O Jackson XV

B Bluehills Racing Ltd

4

TFRHHHHH BHA75 Billy Loughnane

9-8 (13)

Harry Eustace, Newmarket T

Tattersalls S

TIMEFORM VIEW JustifiedsupportwhenmakingawinningreturnatPontefract(12f,heavy)31daysago,leadingover1foutandwellon top finish. Manner of that victory suggests he can do better still and fancied to be thereabouts.

11 SWIFT TUTTLE (IRE) (203) 02004-

4 9-7 (11)

Br Ch g Fast Company (IRE) - Lumiere Astrale (FR) Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero, Malpas T

O The Salmon Family

B Hardys Of Kilkeel Ltd

Swansway S

TIMEFORM VIEW Fairly useful in a light Flat campaign but only minor promise in trio of juvenile hurdle runs for present stable. Returned to the Flat and the market may well guide.

12 PUNXSUTAWNEY PHIL (IRE) (30) 6/1-005 D 6 9-7 (9)

Br B g Shirocco (GER) - Chilly Filly (IRE)

O Mr Dan Gilbert

B Dan Gilbert

Brian Ellison, Malton T

Brian Ellison Racing Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Useful winner at 17f over hurdles and won AW Flat maiden over 12f in December. Not been in the same form in trio of starts since though, including when well held fifth in Catterick handicap (13.8f) last month.

13

TESSY LAD (IRE) (193) 121621- D

Br B g Australia - Maracuja

O M&O Construction & Civil Engineering Ltd

B Manister House Stud

4 9-7 (14)

Richard Hughes, Upper Lambourn T

The Garden Cider Company Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Steadily went the right way in handicaps last season, gaining third success at Wolverhampton (12.2f) in October and showed aptitude for hurdling when placed in pair of juvenile hurdles since.

TFRHHHII BHA76 Saffie Osborne

TFRHHHHI BHA74 Kaiya Fraser (5)

TFRHHHII BHA73 George Bass

TFRHHIII BHA73 Joseph Sheridan

TFRHHHII BHA73 Ethan Jones (7)

14 THE NU FORM WAY (FR) (15) 5050-51 CD 5 9-6 (5)

Br B g Le Havre (IRE) - Jamboree (IRE) Stella Barclay, Garstang T

O Eddie and Fiona Carswell

B S.A. Franklin Finance, S. Vidal et al Lancashire Racing Stables Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW BaggedaC&Dhandicapfrom3lblowermarkuponjoiningthisyardlastsummerandhecomesherehavingresumed winning ways at Beverley (9.9f) 15 days ago, just holding on from a subsequent winner.

TFRHHHII BHA72 Harry Davies

15 WHIRLWIND (GB) (156) 3505- 4 9-6 (8)

Br B g Night of Thunder (IRE) - Hokkaido Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero, Malpas T

O Amanda Cool, Zoe and George Hassall

B Rabbah Bloodstock Limited Swansway S

TIMEFORM VIEW Displayed fair form on 3 of his 4 starts on AW (at up to 10f) for Richard Hannon last year, running best race when fifth at Lingfield (7f) in December. Joined new yard in February.

TFRHHHII BHA72 Alec Voikhansky (5)

16 EXPLORERS WAY (IRE) (39) 4226-44 4 9-4 (15)

Br Ch g Australia - Into The Lane (IRE) Brian Ellison, Malton T

O Mr P. Boyle

B Ringfort Stud Ltd Brian Ellison Racing Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Maiden who showed fairly useful form during a light 2022 campaign. Hasn’t scaled same heights in pair of starts for new yard though and others arrive with more pressing claims.

DECLARED RUNNERS 16

TFRHHIII BHA70 Harry Russell

2022: HASEEFAH 5 9 9 George Bass 20-1 (Alan King) 15 ran

Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 15. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 4, 8. Visor worn by No. 7.

Tongue Strap worn by No. 3. Hood, Tongue Strap worn by No. 11. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 6, 12. Running for the first time since Gelding No. 15. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 11, 15.

Stewards Note:

SWIFT TUTTLE: Following its run on 26/1/2023 it was reported that the horse ran too freely.

EXPLORERS WAY: Following its run on 3/4/2023 it was reported that the horse stopped quickly.

Probable S.P.’s: 11-2 Claritudo (GB), By Your Side (GB), 15-2 The Nu Form Way (FR), 9-1 Aqwaam (GB), 10-1 Greystoke (GB), Two Brothers (GB), 11-1 Daheer (USA), Tessy Lad (IRE), 16-1 State Legend (IRE), 18-1 Brasca (GB), Heart of Soul (IRE), 20-1 Whirlwind (GB), 22-1 Swift Tuttle (IRE), 25-1 Punxsutawney Phil (IRE), 33-1 Explorers Way (IRE) PLAY

Plenty arrive with claims including Irish-raider BY YOUR SIDE. Steadily progressive on the level last term, he comes having run his best race yet over hurdles when runner-up in a big-field affair at Punchestown 2 weeks ago and it’s most interesting his leading NH yard pitchs him in here with Billy Loughnane booked. Last-time-out winners Claritudo, and Two Brothers head up the dangers, with Greystoke another to note for Alan King.

TIMEFORM PREDICTION: 1.BY YOUR SIDE 2.CLARITUDO 3.TWO BROTHERS

Don’t forget to bet on the 4:35 at MARKET RASEN and 4:45 at ASCOT.

GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME

The Great British Bonus (GBB) offers multiple bonuses of up to £20,000 per eligible race for British-bred fillies and mares.

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WE’RE OFFERING YOU A 50% DISCOUNT

in the Tattersalls & County Concourse enclosures for all of our September fixtures:

2nd September

Ladies Day

15th September

Autumn Festival Friday

16th September

Autumn Festival Saturday

30th September

Watergate Cup Day

Use code BMF when booking online to redeem this fantastic offer.

THE Chester Plate is a valuable consolation race for horses targeted at the Chester Cup, but which don’t make the final field.

When the Plate was staged for the first time in 2018, the Chester Cup joined a select band of historic and popular Flat handicaps to be awarded a consolation race. The others are the Ayr Gold Cup, the Bunbury Cup and Cambridgeshire (both at Newmarket), the Stewards’ Cup (at Goodwood), the Lincoln (at Doncaster) and the Northumberland Plate (at Newcastle).

Like its big brother, the Chester Plate has also proved a happy hunting ground for horses with plenty of hurdling experience. The inaugural winner Look My Way had enjoyed a productive few months over hurdles in the months before his Plate victory, winning at Ludlow,

CHESTER PLATE HISTORY

finishing second in the Grade 2 Triumph Hurdle Trial at Cheltenham and then running a creditable race at the Festival. He was challenged hard inside the final furlong here at Chester by Coeur De Lion, but hung on grimly to win for his Scottish-born jockey Jason Hart and dual-purpose Yorkshire-based handler John Quinn.

Coeur De Lion, himself a talented hurdler, would get his moment of glory in 2019 as he went one place better. Trained by Alan King, a jumps trainer to trade but who has made a niche for himself as a plunderer of major staying races on the Flat, Coeur Du Lion romped to a wide-margin win over 2014 Chester Cup hero Suegioo.

Green Book hadn’t won over hurdles prior to his start-to-finish Plate success 12 months ago under fifty-something Liverpool jockey

Green Book

Franny Norton, for whom Chester has been such a happy hunting ground down the years. However, Green Book had run well to be second onhis only start over hurdles, finishing runner-up at Hereford 79 days earlier. Freshened up in the interim by his trainer Venetia Williams, he arrived at the Roodee tuned to the minute and duly ran his rivals ragged from the front.

The talented five-year-old has subsequently enjoyed his share of success at the jumping game, most notably when landing a Grade 3 handicap hurdle at Sandown in February.

Venetia Williams has emerged as an early leading trainer for this race having won the previous two renewals, giving her a 50% strike rate in this contest to date. She saddles last year’s winner Bellatrixsa here again with winning jockey Franny Norton once again on board. She also has Christopher Wood who will be ridden by Hollie Doyle.

FACT FILE

Conditions: 4-y-o and upwards only eliminated from this season’s Chester Cup Race distance: 2m 2f 140y

Prize money: £50,000 total prize fund

Previous Winners

2018

LOOK MY WAY

Jason Hart / John Quinn

4:4.52

2019

COEUR DE LION

Thore Hammer Hansen / Alan King

4:42.76

2021

GREEN BOOK

Franny Norton / Venetia Williams

4:10.52

2022

BELLATRIXSA

Franny Norton / Venetia Williams

4:09.60

SEVENTH RACE 4.55

THE tote FANTASY, WHOS IN YOUR STABLE CHESTER PLATE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2)

(for the Bobby McAlpine Memorial Cup)

for four yrs old and upwards

Total prize fund £50000

2m 2f 140y

Owners Prize Money. 1st £20080, 2nd £10040, 3rd £5020, 4th £2510, 5th £1255, 6th £625, 7th £315, 8th £155. (Penalty Value £25480) 6 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10.

RACE DESCRIPTON

The Chester Plate is a consolation race for horses which were declared to run, but were eliminated at the declaration stage from this season’s Chester Cup The contest for four-year-olds and upwards is run over the same distance as the Cup of two miles, two furlongs about 140 yards and looks to be a very competive line-up

colours no horse

age st-lb

Draw Jockey

1 NOVEL LEGEND (IRE) (21) 2412-11 C 4 10-0 (in 3lb ex) (14)

Br B g Nathaniel (IRE) - Majestic Dubawi

O Mr Boniface Ho Ka Kui

James Fanshawe, Newmarket T

B Ballylinch Stud Pegasus Stables Llp S

TIMEFORM VIEW Improved second half of last term, opening account over 14.4f here (good to soft) in September. Has kicked on again this season, scoring on return at Kempton before success at Newbury (16.5f, heavy).

TFRHHHHH BHA85 (+10)

2 IT’S GOOD TO LAUGH (IRE) (13) 00543-5 C 6 9-12 (6)

Br B g Tamayuz - London Plane (IRE)

O Brian Verinder & Alan Baxter

Jennie Candlish, Leek T

B Shane Molan Pra World Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Multiple Flat/hurdles winner who ran modestly back from a break over hurdles in March. Conditions too testing returned to this sphere at Ripon (2m, heavy) recently and he is 2-4 here.

Daniel Muscutt

TFRHHIII BHA85 (-2) Billy Loughnane (3)

3 ANNA BUNINA (FR) (230) 21//54/10- 7 9-12 (1)

Br B m Poet’s Voice - Russian Society

O Ms Caroline Ahearn

B Dermot Cantillon

TIMEFORM VIEW

John McConnell, Ireland T

TFRHHHII BHA85

4 MILITARY TWO STEP (FR) (31) 01-4365 C 5 9-12 (4)

Br Gr m Jukebox Jury (IRE) - Step This Way (USA) Charlie Johnston, Middleham T

O C R Hirst & Dougie Livingston

B Kingsley Park Ltd Johnston Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful over 2m here in 2021 and hit the target twice last year. Some fair efforts on the AW since the turn of the year but put in her place back on turf at Pontefract last time.

TFRHHIII BHA85 Ben Curtis

5 ZINC WHITE (IRE) (722) 566/11/- 5 9-11 (13)

Br Gr g Vadamos (FR) - Chinese White (IRE)

O S Beetham and DPL Fab Ltd

B Skymarc Farm

Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

Dpl Fabrications Limited, Tote S

TIMEFORM VIEW Progressive during truncated 2021 campaign, winning pair of 1 3/4m handicaps. Wasn’t 100% when pulled up on hurdles bow at Ffos Las in October of that year and subsequent absence an obvious concern.

TFRHHIII BHA84 Jim Crowley

6 JUAN BERMUDEZ (GB) (28) 1/4310-4 4 9-11 (8)

Br Ch g Nathaniel (IRE) - Long Face (USA) Andrew Balding, Kingsclere T

O The Bermuda Salman Morris Partnership

B Newsells Park Stud Bermuda Racing Ltd S

TIMEFORM VIEW Raised his game when narrowly prevailing from the front upped to 2m at Kempton in November. Below par both subsequent starts, though, including on return at Leicester (11.8f, heavy) last month.

TFRHHIII BHA85

7 LAND OF WINTER (FR) (13) 6406-64 BF 7 9-11 (9)

Br B g Camelot - Gaselee (USA) Rae Guest, Newmarket T

O Paul Smith & Rae Guest

B Claydons Bloodstock Ltd Eastern County Care Ltd. S

Oisin Murphy

TIMEFORM VIEW Successful twice in 2021. Winless last season but stepped up on reappearance effort this time round when fourth at Ripon (2m, heavy) recently and wasn’t beaten far when fourth over C&D in September. TFRHHHII BHA84 (-1) Rossa Ryan

8 CHRISTOPHERWOOD(IRE) (1036) 210//10//- 8 9-9 (17)

Br B g Fast Company (IRE) - Surf The Web (IRE) Venetia Williams, Hereford T

O Ms Sharon Kinsella

B Airlie Stud Faucets Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Last seen out in this sphere almost 3 years ago but plenty of solid form to his name over hurdles/fences. On an attractive mark for yard that has won the last 2 runnings of this handicap.

TFRHHIII BHA82 Hollie Doyle

9 HYDROPLANE (IRE) (44) 3/616-34 C 7 9-9 (2)

Br B g Pour Moi (IRE) - Walk On Water Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

O John Nicholls Racing

B Bloomsbury Stud

Hunter Plastics Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Has contested the last 2 renewals of this, finishing third in 2021 and sixth 12 months ago. Won over 2m here last summer, too, and largely respectable efforts since.

TFRHHIII BHA82

10 WHITEHAVEN (FR) (210) 30/0352- 6 9-9 (12)

Br Bl g Le Havre (IRE) - Passion Blanche Donald McCain, Cholmondeley T

O Mr & Mrs G. Calder

B E.A.R.L. Haras de Saint-Vincent et al

Proactive Personnel Limited, Tote S

TIMEFORM VIEW Signed off light 2022 campaign by finishing second in a 2m Haydock handicap. Third in a Catterick novice hurdle in January but well held both starts since and opposable back in this sphere.

TFRHHIII BHA82

11 BELLATRIXSA (IRE) (371) 2321/0/1- CD 6 9-8 (10)

Br Gr m Gregorian (IRE) - Aloisi

O Ms Sharon Kinsella

Venetia Williams, Hereford T

B Rathasker Stud Faucets Limited S

TIMEFORM VIEW Justified strong market support when landing this race 12 months ago (latest Flat start). 4lb higher this time (in a more competitive renewal) and she hasn’t fired in a handful of runs over fences.

12 MALAKAHNA (FR) (196) 462611-

Br B m Manduro (GER) - Alakhana (FR)

O Macable Partnership

B Wertheimer et Frere

HHHII

5 9-7 (11)

Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

TIMEFORM VIEW Won3ofher8startsonthelevel,provingtoostrongforthere-opposingNovelLegendwhenlastseeninthissphere at Newmarket (2m, good to soft) in October. Efforts over hurdles leave much to be desired.

13

OMAN (IRE) (28) 00-5000 C

Br Ch g Australia - Awohaam (IRE)

O Xenor UK

B Churchtown B/stock,Grouseridge & Carhue

HHIII BHA80

5 9-6 (3)

Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

TIMEFORM VIEW On a good mark based on his form a couple of seasons back but struggled in 3 starts over hurdles during the winter. Modest in as many appearances on the Flat in recent months.

Richard Kingscote

Paul Mulrennan

TFR

BHA81 Franny Norton

TFR

Saffie Osborne

TFRHIIII BHA79 Jason Hart

14

MOSTLY SUNNY (IRE) (21) 00021-0

4 9-6 (16)

Br Ch g Zarak (FR) - Belle Above All Heather Main, Wantage T

O Desk Till Dawn and Wetumpka Racing

B Mrs D. J. James Tote S

TIMEFORM VIEW Back on track final 2 starts of last term, good second in 13.3f Newbury handicap (heavy) prior to going one better upped to 16.2f at Newcastle in November. Well adrift at Newbury on return 3 weeks ago.

TFRHIIII BHA80 (-1) Jack Mitchell

15 THE PREDICTOR (IRE) (13) 32012-2

4 9-5 (15)

Br B g Divine Prophet (AUS) - Tip It On The Top (IRE) Richard Fahey, Malton T

O Walsh, O’Keeffe & Partner

B Eimear Mulhern

TIMEFORM VIEW Confirmed previous promise when opening his account at Thirsk (2m, good) in August. Positive start to this season when going close on return at Ripon (2m, heavy).

TFRHHHII BHA79 (+1) Oisin Orr

16 WHIMSY (GB) (24) 1223-40

Br Ch f Charming Thought - Cape Victoria

O Kingsclere Racing Club

4 9-3 (7)

Andrew Balding, Kingsclere T

B Kingsclere Stud Kingsclere Stud S

TIMEFORM VIEW Did little wrong last season, successful twice at Salisbury and posted several creditable efforts in defeat, too. Below par both starts this time round, though. Unproven beyond 1 1/2m.

17

JUSTUS (IRE) (14) 0430-61

TFRHHIII BHA77 (-2) Callum Hutchinson (3)

5 9-2 (in 3lb ex) (5)

Br Ch g Galileo (IRE) - Landikusic (IRE) Ian Williams, Alvechurch T

O Coomes Parmar Turner Dale

B LNJ Foxwoods Partnership Tote S

TIMEFORM VIEW Maiden winner who acquitted himself well in handicaps at York and Ascot (both at around 2m) in September. Scored in good style at Doncaster a fortnight ago.

TFRHHHHI BHA72 (+8) Dougie Costello

DECLARED RUNNERS 17 2022: BELLATRIXSA (IRE) 5 9 4 Franny Norton 13-8 (Venetia Williams) 11 ran Blinkers worn first time by No. 7. Visor worn first time by No. 17. Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 2, 10.

Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 6, 10. Visor worn by No. 13. Tongue Strap worn by No. 6, 9, 12. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 2, 9, 12, 15. Running for the first time since Wind Surgery No. 10.

Stewards Note:

ZINC WHITE: Following its run on 28/10/2021 it was reported that the horse lost its action.

MALAKAHNA: Following its run on 19/3/2023 it was reported that the horse lost its action.

Probable S.P.’s: 5-2 Novel Legend (IRE), 13-2 Justus (IRE), 11-1 Bellatrixsa (IRE), 12-1 The Predictor (IRE), 14-1 Malakahna (FR), 16-1 Land of Winter (FR), 18-1 It’s Good To Laugh (IRE), Christopher Wood (IRE), 22-1 Hydroplane (IRE), 25-1 Juan Bermudez (GB), 28-1 Whitehaven (FR), 33-1 Zinc White (IRE), Mostly Sunny (IRE), 40-1 Military Two Step (FR), Whimsy (GB), 80-1 Oman (IRE)

The progressive NOVEL LEGEND is a step ahead of the assessor under a 3lb penalty and, with this new trip unlikely to pose a problem, he will take plenty of stopping in his bid to complete the hat-trick The fact that he was a winner here on his sole previous visit in September also augurs well. Justus is also ‘well-in’ under a penalty following his wide-margin Doncaster success and he is next on the list ahead of The Predictor.

PLAY SMARTER

RACECOURSE REGULATION & NOTICES

ALL BADGES, CAR PARK LABELS AND HOSPITALITY PACKAGES ARE SOLD SUBJECT TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS:FORCE MAJEURE

1. The Company shall not be liable to the Racegoer for any failure or omission or breach caused by an event or events beyond the control of the Company such as but not limited to war, civil disturbance, order of a Government Ministry or Department or Public Authority, fire, flood, natural catastrophe, royal demise, labour dispute, lock-out, withdrawal of labour or breakdown or interruption of services or transport (public or otherwise) or death or illness of a key person.

1.1 Upon the happening of such an event the obligations of the Company and any period of time then running shall be suspended for the period of the event plus such time as may be required to resume normality

1.2 Such an event shall not entitle the Racegoer to take any steps against the Company for breach or to terminate the agreement or otherwise.

PRIOR TO THE COMMENCEMENT OF RACE MEETING

2. Where badges, car park labels or hospitality packages are sold for a specified area of the Racecourse, the Company will use its best endeavours to ensure the specified area is available for use at the specified time.

If however the specified area cannot be used for reasons not within the control of the Company then the Company shall be entitled to offer a reasonable alternative. If no alternative is offered by the Company the customer will be entitled to a full refund of monies received by the Company

3. Refunds, other than those covered by clause 2 immediately above, will not be considered. Cancellation of badges/tickets or hospitality bookings cannot be considered once a booking has been processed.

3.1 The Chester Race Company Ltd Database is owned and used solely by the Chester Race Company Group, which comprises Chester Racecourse, Bangor on Dee Racecourse and Express by Holiday Inn at Chester Racecourse, with reference to the Data Protection Act 1998 (amended 2000).

3.2 The Company cannot guarantee the validity of badges/tickets purchased anywhere other than Chester Racecourse.

ONCE THE RACE MEETING HAS COMMENCED

4. Entry into, and the right to remain within the Racecourse property is subject to the requirement to submit to a search or a number of searches of Racegoers, their baggage or vehicles in which they travel.

5. The climbing of fences, stands and any other buildings is forbidden. Trespassing on the racetrack, except at designated crossing points, is disallowed at all times.

6. Any person failing to comply with instructions from a steward or police officer may be ejected from the Racecourse.

7. Customers in the County Stand are required to observe a strict dress code. Gentlemen are required to wear a suit jacket, collar and tie. Ladies are required to wear smart dress. No jeans or tracksuits are allowed. These standards of dress also apply to patrons in all hospitality and restaurant facilities.

8. Please observe the designated no drinking areas. Food and alcoholic beverages cannot be brought into any Racecourse enclosure except the Open Course.

9. Gambling and the consumption of alcoholic beverages by Racegoers under the age of 18 are strictly prohibited.

10. All unauthorised photography and any flash photography is strictly prohibited. Racedays at Chester are attended by the media and given coverage on TV, radio, online and in print. From time-to-time, we also capture images and moving video of racegoers attending a day at Chester Racecourse. Footage and videos can often be used on social media or in promotional materials the racecourse produces. By entering the racecourse, attendees are accepting they may appear in such coverage. Each Attendee will give any additional consents or waivers required for the unrestricted lawful use of any coverage (if any) without request for payment or imposing any other conditions.

11. Flags, banners and other articles and any behaviour such as drunkenness, abusive conduct, singing or shouting which may constitute an annoyance to spectators or distract or frighten the horses are prohibited.

12. No dogs are allowed anywhere on the Racecourse (with the exception of aid dogs) and must not be left in vehicles.

13 Transfers between enclosures may be possible on the day, subject to availability

14 Parking or setting down on the side is prohibited other than at official car parks.

15. Lost or stolen badges will not be replaced.

16 Hospitality badges are sold on the understanding that no money in respect of the unused badges will be reimbursed.

17 In the event of abandonment at any time on the day of racing, there will be no refund in respect of Box, Room or Chalet hire charges.

18 In the event of abandonment before Racing, or up to the ‘Weighed-In’ of the first race there will be a refund of badge/ticket and parking costs. In the event of an abandonment after the ‘Weighed-In’ of the first race up to the ‘Weighed-In’ of the third race or nominated feature race whichever is later there will be a

50% refund of badge/ticket and car parking costs. In the event of abandonment thereafter there will be no refunds. No cash returns to be paid on the day All refunds to be administered after the meeting by post. Where the customer is entitled (pursuant to this clause 19) to any refund, in order to qualify for such refund the customer must follow the procedure listed below (i) Make a note of the reference numbers of all badge/ticket and car park labels. (ii) Send the badges/tickets and/or labels along with a covering letter stating the full name and address of the sender and if different from that of the sender, the full name and address of the purchaser of the badges/tickets or labels to: Chester Race Company Limited, The Racecourse, Chester CH1 2LY. To be valid, requests for refunds must be received in writing within one month of the abandoned Raceday The Company shall have no responsibility or liability of any nature in respect of any refund request received after that time.

19 All persons visiting the Racecourse are admitted to these Regulations and to the Rules of Racing. The Company reserves the right to refuse xadmission to/or to remove from the Racecourse, in its absolute discretion and without giving any reasons, any person failing to comply with such Rules and Regulations or whose presence is, in its absolute discretion, a source of danger or annoyance and shall have no obligation to give any reason therefore.

20 The Company shall in no circumstances be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense or any consequential or indirect loss or damage of any kind.

21. Lost children and lost luggage enquiries should be made to the police.

22. It is a condition of entry that only individuals possessing a valid betting badge and occupying an authorised pitch are entitled to lay bets. Anyone contravening this condition will be evicted.

IMPORTANT INFOMATION

HORSE WELFARE

At all of our race meetings there are three equine veterinary surgeons on duty. They are equipped and positioned to give immediate care should it be required. This may involve screens being erected around a horse which provides privacy for a vet to make an assessment.

BETTING RING MANAGER

The Betting Ring Manager is located in the Tattersalls Enclosure. He will be available in each enclosure to assist in any betting dispute.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Weights, Pedigrees, Trainers’ Names, Descriptions, Performances and Values of races included within this racecard have been added for the convenience of the Public, but are not guaranteed as correct.

DRESS CODE

The Racecourse requires that gentleman wear suit jackets and trousers (not jeans or tracksuits) with a collared shirt (not a t-shirt) and tie in the County Stand on all raceday Trainers are not permitted. Ladies should not wear jeans or tracksuits. These standard of dress also apply for patron in all hospitality and restaurant areas.

LOST CHILDREN

Lost children enquiries should be made at the Box Office in reception.

ENHANCED DISABLED VIEWING AREAS

Enhanced Disabled viewing areas are provided in the following areas:

Parade ring, Dee Enclosure, Paddock, County Stand, Tattersalls. A disabled reception kiosk is positioned in the Holiday Inn Express car park and is there to give help, advice and assistance to disabled racegoers and their carers. All enclosures have disabled toilets.

NO SMOKING AREAS

Chester Racecourse is a No Smoking area. You will still be permitted to smoke in all outside areas, including balconies. Smoking is now prohibited in any enclosed area, bar or restaurant, seats within the County Stand, the terraced steps within the Tattersalls Enclosure and the Subway Ashtrays have been provided all over the course and we ask that you make use of them to keep Chester Racecourse a clean and tidy area.

DOGS

No dogs are allowed anywhere on the racecourse (except aid dogs).

OFFICIAL RACING PHOTOGRAPHER

Our thanks to on-course photographer, Alan Wright, for providing racing photography featured in the racecard. If you would like to ‘capture’ your horse in action or arrange a visit to your trainer’s stable for a portrait photograph, please contact Alan at:

www.officialphotographersuk.com or call 01695 724 504

BAR CLOSING TIMES

Dee & Open Course enclosures

All on the last race County, Tattersalls and Paddock

Half an hour after the last race.

New customers online only. £/€5 min stake. Receive £/€20 Tote Credit when first bet settles. £/€10 redeemable against racing bets and £/€10 redeemable against racing bets excl. Win/Place. 7 day expiry Qualifying bet is the first racing pool bet added to the betslip. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. BeGambleaware.org.

TODAY’S OFFICIALS & RACE CONDITIONS

FRIDAY 12TH MAY 2023

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

IAN O’DOHERTY (Chair)

LOUISE STEWART (Chief Executive Officer)

JONATHON TURNER

JOËLLE WARREN MBE

CHARLES BARNETT CVO

MARCO GARAVELLO (Finance Director)

LISA HANCOCK

STEWARDS

GREG PEARSON (Chief Steward)

CAROLINE TELLWRIGHT (Stewards’ Panel Chair)

DANIEL ANDREWS

SOPHIE CANDY

NATHAN GREEN

LOUISE MOORE

STARTERS

STUART TURNER

SEAMUS O’NEILL

JUDGE

NICK BOSTOCK

CLERKS OF THE SCALES

WAYNE BURNELL

VETERINARY OFFICERS

BETHAN COOK

KATE MAXWELL

NURSES

GILL WHITTAKER

VETERINARY SURGEONS

KATE SUMNER

GRAHAM POTTS

JOHN SPENCER

STUART PEARSON

MEDICAL OFFICERS

Dr JOHN EDWARDS (SENIOR)

Dr JOHN MURRAY

Dr IAN ROBERTS

Dr JOHN BERRY

EQUINE WELFARE & INTEGRITY OFFICERS

MELANIE SWARBRICK, JEREMY WILLIS, JANE SOUTHAM, LISA COOK, LOUISE NEALE

BETTING RING MANAGERS

NEIL PATEMAN, DARREN IRVING, MIKE OXLEY

COMMENTATOR

STEWART MACHIN

HANDICAPPER

CHRIS NASH

CLERK OF THE COURSE

ANDREW TULLOCH

FARRIERS

JIM BLURTON

HORSE AMBULANCE

NICK JONES

SAFEGUARDING OFFICER

MATT JONES

First Race 1.30 - THE CAA STELLAR EARL GROSVENOR HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £20384 to the winning horse The second to receive £9556, the third £4784, the fourth £2388, the fifth £1196, the sixth £592, the seventh £300 and the eighth £148. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 86-105 (also open to such horses rated 85 and below). £200 stake if the horse is rated 86 or higher, or £40 stake if the horse is rated 85 or lower with £160 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 10th. Lowest weight 8st 4lb; Highest weight 9st 9lb Penalties, after April 29th, 2023, for each race won 4yo to 6yo 5lb; 7yo and up 4lb. CAA STELLAR have kindly sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize of £100 to the handler of the horse judged to be the best turned out. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of CAA Stellar. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 21 entries at £200. - Closed May 6th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £16064; Second £8032; Third £4016; Fourth £2008; Fifth £1004; Sixth £500; Seventh £252; Eighth £124. (Penalty Value £20384) SS

SEE PAGE 26 FOR THIS RACE.

Second Race 2.05 - THE PRECISION FACADES HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £20384 to the winning horse The second to receive £9556, the third £4784, the fourth £2388, the fifth £1196, the sixth £592, the seventh £300 and the eighth £148. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 86-105 (also open to such horses rated 106 and 107; such horses rated 85 and below are also eligible - see Standard Conditions). £200 stake if the horse is rated 86 or higher, or £40 stake if the horse is rated 85 or lower with £160 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 10th. Lowest weight 8st 4lb; Highest weight 9st 9lb Penalties, after April 29th, 2023, for each race won 4yo to 6yo 5lb; 7yo and up 4lb. Precision Facades has kindly sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize of £100 to the handler of the horse judged to be the best turned out. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of Chester. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code 16 entries, 2 at £40 and 14 at £200. - Closed May 6th, 2023 Owners Prize Money Winner £16064; Second £8032; Third £4016; Fourth £2008; Fifth £1004; Sixth £500; Seventh £252; Eighth £124. (Penalty Value £20384) SS

SEE PAGE 34 FOR THIS RACE.

Third Race 2.40 - THE IRE-INCENTIVE, IT PAYS TO BUY IRISH HUXLEY STAKES (CLASS 1) (Group 2) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £67224 to the winning horse The second to receive £25596, the third £12816, the fourth £6396, the fifth £3204 and the sixth £1608. for four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon May 6th and pay £1200 stake Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 10th. Weights: Colts and geldings 9st 3lb; fillies 9st Penalties, after August 31st, 2022, a winner of a Group 2 race 3lb Of a Group 1 race 5lb. Irish Thoroughbred Marketing are kindly sponsoring this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize to the stable employee in charge of the horse judged to be best turned out. This race is part of the IRE Incentive Scheme, more details available at www.itm.ie. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of Irish Thoroughbred Marketing. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 13 entries at £1200. - Closed May 6th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £52800; Second £21768; Third £10884; Fourth £5448; Fifth £2724; Sixth £1356. (Penalty Value £67224) A SS

SEE PAGE 42 FOR THIS RACE.

Fourth Race 3.15 - THE TOTE CHESTER CUP (Class 2 Heritage Handicap) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £76440 to the winning horse The second to receive £35835, the third £17940, the fourth £8955, the fifth £4485, the sixth £2220, the seventh £1125 and the eighth £555. for four yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, April 11th and pay £250 stake, Scratch by noon, April 25th or pay £250, Confirm by noon, May 6th and pay £250, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 10th. Lowest weight 8st 2lb; Highest weight not less than 9st 12lb Penalties, after April 15th, 2023, a winner of a race 3lb NOTE: Any horse rated above 110 shall initially be treated as having that rating and the highest weight allotted shall be 9st 12lb. Subsequently, the excess over 110 in any rating shall be allotted to that horse without limitation to the highest weight to be carried.. TOTE has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize to the handler of the horse judged to be the best turned out. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of Tote. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. CHESTER RACECOURSE will pay Appearance Money of £500 to the owners of all horses which Start in this race, but do not win prize money. Additionally, the owners of all horses, which win prize money of less than £500, will receive an Appearance Money payment which will make up the prize to £500. Entries for this race are accepted on the understanding that owners and trainers may nominate their horses at the 48 hour declaration stage for entry to this season’s Chester Plate (Class 2) (Chester Cup consolation race), to be run at Chester on the Friday of the May meeting, in the event of their horses being eliminated from this season’s Chester Cup. PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Weights and Handicapping Code a horse must have run three times or more in order to qualify to run in this race. 43 entries, 6 at £250, 14 at £500, 23 at £750. - Closed April 11th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £60240; Second £30120; Third £15060; Fourth £7530; Fifth £3765; Sixth £1875; Seventh £945; Eighth £465. (Penalty Value £76440) Weights raised 2lb and paragraphs 27 to 31 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. 30 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. SS

SEE PAGE 52 FOR THIS RACE.

Fifth Race 3.45 - THE BOODLES DARLEY MAIDEN STAKES (CLASS 2) (GBB RACE) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £20384 to the winning horse The second to receive £9556, the third £4784, the fourth £2388, the fifth £1196 and the sixth £592 for maiden three yrs old. Enter by noon, May 6th and pay £200 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 10th. Weights: Colts and geldings 9st 7lb; fillies 9st 2lb. Boodles have kindly sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize of £100 to the handler of the horse judged to be the best turned out. The British Horseracing Authority’s Development Fund has generously contributed £10000 towards the prize money for this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of Boodles. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 10 entries at £200. - Closed May 6th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £16064; Second £8032; Third £4016; Fourth £2008; Fifth £1004; Sixth £500. (Penalty Value £20384) A SS

SEE PAGE 62 FOR THIS RACE.

Sixth Race 4.20 - THE WHITE OAK APPRENTICE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 4) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £10192 to the winning horse The second to receive £4778, the third £2392, the fourth £1194, the fifth £598, the sixth £296, the seventh £150 and the eighth £74. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 61-80 (also open to such horses rated 81 and 82; such horses rated 60 and below are also eligible - see Standard Conditions). £100 stake if the horse is rated 61 or higher, or £20 stake if the horse is rated 60 or lower with £80 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 10th Lowest weight 8st 9lb; Highest weight 10st Penalties, after April 29th, 2023, for each race won 4yo to 6yo 5lb; 7yo and up 4lb. To be ridden by Apprentice Jockeys Overseas Jockeys eligible under Rule (B)42 and Professional Jockeys eligible to claim a weight allowance under paragraph 52 of the Weights and Handicapping Code Allowances: Jockeys who, prior to May 9th 2023 have not ridden more than 50 winners in races under the Rules of Racing or the Rules of a recognised Racing Authority 3lb Jockeys who have not ridden more than 25 such winners 5lb Jockeys who have not ridden more than 10 such winners 7lb (Only one of these allowances may be claimed). WHITE OAK have kindly sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize of £100 to the handler of the horse judged to be the best turned out. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of WHITE OAK. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 21 entries at £100. - Closed May 6th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £8032; Second £4016; Third £2008; Fourth £1004; Fifth £502; Sixth £250; Seventh £126; Eighth £62. (Penalty Value £10192) 7 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. A SS

SEE PAGE 72 FOR THIS RACE.

Seventh Race 4.55 - THE tote FANTASY, WHOS IN YOUR STABLE CHESTER PLATE HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) (for the Bobby McAlpine Memorial Cup) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £25480 to the winning horse The second to receive £11945, the third £5980, the fourth £2985, the fifth £1495, the sixth £740, the seventh £375 and the eighth £185. for four yrs old and upwards, which were declared to run but were eliminated at the declaration stage from this season’s Chester Cup. Enter by noon, May 10th and pay £250 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. May 10th. Lowest weight 8st 2lb; Highest weight not less than 9st 12lb Penalties, after April 15th, 2023, a winner of a race 3lb NOTE: Any horse rated above 110 shall initially be treated as having that rating and the highest weight allotted shall be 9st 12lb. Subsequently, the excess over 110 in any rating shall be allotted to that horse without limitation to the highest weight to be carried.. TOTE has generously sponsored this race and will present a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. In addition, they will award a cash prize of £100 to the handler of the horse judged to be the best turned out. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of Tote. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. Special Conditions apply to this race. Please refer to the BHA’s Racing Administration Internet site, www.racingadmin.co.uk. Weights for the Chester Plate will be allocated using the same handicap ratings as used for the Chester Cup. Eight declared runners, or the race may be cancelled. The BHA has modified the Race Entry Code for the purpose of this race. PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Weights and Handicapping Code a horse must have run three times or more in order to qualify to run in this race. 17 entries at £250. - Closed May 10th, 2023. Owners Prize Money. Winner £20080; Second £10040; Third £5020; Fourth £2510; Fifth £1255; Sixth £625; Seventh £315; Eighth £155. (Penalty Value £25480) 6 Eliminated Under Rules (I)9 and (I)10. SS

SEE PAGE 82 FOR THIS RACE.

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