Horse Racing

Big Zeb back on track for Champion Chase at Cheltenham

2010-02-03T08:20:00.001Z

Big Zeb left his rivals trailing at Punchestown
Big Zeb is back among the leading contenders for the Champion Chase at Cheltenham in March after a fine Punchestown victory on Sunday.

Barry Geraghty oozed confidence on the Colm Murphy-trained horse, who won the Tied Cottage Chase by seven lengths.

Odds-on favourite Golden Silver, under Ruby Walsh, had to settle for second.

Big Zeb, who was fourth behind winner Twist Magic when favourite for the Tingle Creek Chase in December, is now as low as 5-1 for the Champion Chase.

"We'll freshen him up and then it's on to Cheltenham, it's nice to be going over there on the back of that," said Irish trainer Murphy.

Who will be the next chasing superstar?

loudsuperstarkauto28
"We probably shouldn't have sent him over to the Tingle Creek (at Sandown) - I blame myself for that.

"His jumping was brilliant and we've done a lot of schooling with him at home."

Dual champion chaser Master Minded and Twist Magic, both trained by Paul Nicholls, are the market leaders for the big race at the Cheltenham Festival on 17 March.

What A Friend wins Lexus at Leopardstown for Ferguson

2009-12-29T16:01:00.000Z

What A Friend was well beaten by Cooldine at the Cheltenham Festival
What A Friend, part-owned by Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, won the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown.

The 11-2 chance, runner-up to Denman in the Hennessy Gold Cup in November, stayed on to beat Money Trix and Joncol while favourite Cooldine disappointed.

What A Friend, trained by Ferguson's friend Paul Nicholls, was ridden by Denman's former jockey Sam Thomas.

Meanwhile, Solwhit won the December Festival Hurdle to enhance his claims for the Champion Hurdle in March.

Bookmakers reacted to What A Friend's victory by cutting the six-year-old to 20-1 from 33s for the 2010 Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The three-mile chase, which traditionally features some leading Gold Cup contenders, was rearranged after fog caused Monday's card to be postponed.

Thomas, who was on board What A Friend in the Hennessy, only got the Lexus ride after Barry Geraghty was rerouted to Newbury.

"If you take Denman out he would have been a good winner of the Hennessy and all credit to him for coming here three weeks after that run," said Thomas, who won the 2008 Gold Cup on Denman but has endured mixed fortunes since.

"People thought he was ungenuine in the Hennessy when he wandered about going to the final fence but he was just trying so hard.

"Some great horses like Denman and Beef Or Salmon have won this race so hopefully our horse can go onto bigger and better things and I think he might come back here for the Irish Hennessy."

Cooldine, who won the RSA Chase at the Cheltenham Festival by 16 lengths in March when What A Friend was last of six finishers, was sent off the 100-30 favourite.

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What A Friend has paid a huge compliment to Denman

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But trainer Willie Mullins had warned he might need the race and he faded in the closing stages under Paul Townend, who stepped in after Ruby Walsh chose to ride Big Buck's for Nicholls in the Long Walk Hurdle at Newbury.

What A Friend, who had a 22lb weight advantage when second to Denman in the Hennessy, travelled well throughout.

He stayed on for an English 1-2, gamely holding off the Nicky Richards-trained Money Trix (14-1) by half a length with 2008 Welsh National winner Joncol (7-2) in third.

Joncol's trainer Paul Nolan said : "It is unfortunate that we seem so far behind the English horses.

"For What A Friend to come over and beat us like that, it puts us a long way behind.

"Hopefully he will improve a bit with age and I am delighted with his run, but I thought that we did have it."

It was the biggest National Hunt win so far for Ferguson, who jointly owns the winner with Ged Mason.

The Manchester United manager has enjoyed mixed fortunes during his forays into racehorse ownership.

Ferguson led in the brilliant Flat horse Rock of Gibraltar during his early successes, but an ownership dispute saw him come off second best in a row with wealthy Irish racing duo JP McManus and John Magnier.

In the big hurdle race, Davy Russell pushed out 8-11 favourite Solwhit to win for trainer Charles Byrnes.

The 2007 Champion Hurdle winner Sublimity (5-1) was two lengths behind in second.

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Lexus Chase 3m, Leopardstown
1 What A Friend (Paul Nicholls) Sam Thomas 11-2
2 Money Trix 14-1
3 Joncol
Dist: 7-2 ½, 1¼. 11 ran

Leopardstown Golf Centre December Festival Hurdle 2m
1 Solwhit (Charles Byrnes) Davy Russell 8-11f
2 Sublimity 5-1
Dist: 2, 2½. 6 ran

Disabled jockey set to make debut

2009-11-30T13:49:00.000Z

Philip Prince was born with one ear and a jaw defect
A 17-year-old jockey who was born with one ear is due to make his debut on the flat at Wolverhampton on Monday.

Philip Prince has faced a year of legal wrangles with the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), which initially rejected his licence application.

But the jockey has now been granted an amateur licence and will ride either Cantabilly or Barodine in the 1410 GMT.

Philip's mother Dawn said: "It shows if you want something bad enough and are dedicated, things can come good."

In 2006, Philip, who also has a jaw defect, became involved in pony racing, and went on to enjoy 30 winners in over 60 rides over the last three years.

Without pony racing we don't think Philip would be fulfilling his lifelong dream

Dawn Prince
He spent two years with trainer Ron Hodges, for whom he will ride on Monday, but is now based at former Southampton and England footballer Mick Channon's yard at West Ilsley, near Newbury.

His mother continued: "Pony racing gave Philip a positive outlook, focus and helped him gain confidence. We are not a racing family and were totally new to the sport.

"Everybody welcomed us and welcomed Philip enormously. He has found his disability difficult at times but pony racing turned things around for him.

"Getting his licence has been a long and at times frustrating process. We are grateful to so many people who have kept our spirits up and ensured we didn't give up the fight.

"Without pony racing we don't think Philip would be fulfilling his lifelong dream."

The BHA turned down his application for a licence last year on the advice of their Medical Review Panel.

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But Philip and his family appealed the BHA decision, and after two further hearings managed to overturn it.

The chief executive of the Pony Racing Authority, Rebecca Morgan, said: "We're delighted for Philip. I have come to know the family well through their outstanding support of pony racing and greatly admire their dedication and determination.

"And I'm also pleased pony racing has made such a positive contribution to Philip and demonstrates the sport is open and accessible to all."

Stars to breed with Arc heroine

2009-10-28T11:16:00.000Z

The 2009 Arc champion Sea The Stars is set to generate annual fees of £10m from his breeding career at the Aga Khan's Gilltown Stud in County Kildare.

And the Aga Khan, who owns 2008 winner Zarkava, will send his unbeaten filly to the Derby-winning colt.

"I believe the last two Arc winners were made for each other," he said.

He believes the pair are similar in ability, temperament and conformation.

"The best needs to be bred to the best," he said.

To coin a showbusiness analogy, they are the Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie of the equine world.

The match-up will send vibrations around the global bloodstock community, with high expectations for the pair's blueblood offspring.

One bookmaker has already offered odds of 33-1 that a son or daughter goes on to win the Arc at Longchamp in France.

Sea The Stars, a son of Cape Cross, will stand at stud for a fee of 85,000 euros (about £80,000).

This is the charge that will be paid every time an owner sends a mare to be covered by him.

With a book of 120 mares in his first year, the horse is expected to bring in about £10m in stud fees annually.

Owners the Tsui family had been considering various options for Sea The Stars after he was officially retired a fortnight ago.

Sea The Stars was hailed an all-time great after six Group One wins including a unique treble of the 2,000 Guineas, Derby and Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

What would you name their offspring - Seize the Arc?

cyclonic 111
Gilltown is close to the Curragh base of the three-year-old colt's Irish trainer John Oxx.

"His Highness came over in late summer and had a look at him while he was visiting," said the trainer.

"I think he was always going to stand in Ireland, and he'll get supported with some great mares there."

Ling Tsui, mother of Christopher Tsui in whose colours he raced, said "Gilltown is an ideal stud for Sea The Stars to thrive and develop as a stallion.

"There is no more appropriate place for him to stand than in his homeland and close to Currabeg where he was trained by John Oxx."

The Aga Khan said the decision to use his stud brought him "the greatest happiness".

"We are all proud to have such a remarkable athlete," he said.

"Mrs Tsui and Christopher's decision is certainly one of the most important developments for my operation since I inherited it in 1960.

"I am also most pleased that Mrs Tsui and Christopher will be developing their own breeding operation with the help of their magnificent horse, Sea The Stars.

"This horse could also help develop relations to bring Chinese investment into the European bloodstock market."

He added: "I look forward to the earliest opportunity to send my unbeaten champion Zarkava to Sea The Stars. "

Dettori lands Ayr Gold Cup spoils

2009-09-22T22:03:00.000+01:00

Frankie Dettori claimed his first win in the prestigious Ayr Gold Cup as Jimmy Styles held off the challenge of Barney McGrew ridden by Tom Eaves.
The Italian star grabbed the glory in the £150,000 sprint handicap on the 14-1 shot, trained by Clive Cox.
Dettori was always travelling well on the five-year-old and drove on strongly in the closing stages to win by a head.
Knot In Wood (11-1) was three-quarters of a length away in third while the 7-1 favourite Evens And Odds was fourth.
A delighted Dettori said: "It's a great race to win, I've never won it before and I'm thrilled.
"I was following Roger Charlton's horse (Genki) early on and my horse stayed on really well."
Cox had wanted to nominate stall 19 for his horse but was given 15 when he lost connection on his phone at Thursday's draw ceremony, but all that was forgotten.
"We lost the connection, it happens to everybody and it doesn't matter now," the Lambourn trainer said.
"It's fantastic to have won this race. He has always promised to be a good horse and I'm pleased for everyone in the yard. We have had a tremendous year and this is the icing on the cake.
"I did not think a week ago the ground would come right for him with all the rain they had, but it did and I couldn't be more delighted.
"We'll have to talk to the owners about it and I don't know what we will do with him."

Border secures second Nunthorpe

2009-08-28T18:56:00.000+01:00

Ebor Festival, YorkDate: Tuesday 18 - Friday 21 AugustCoverage: Commentary of all the main races on BBC Radio 5 Live and via the 5 Live website (UK users only) More racing coverage details

Callan was on board Borderlescott for the first time at York
Borderlescott, trained by Robin Bastiman and ridden for the first time by Neil Callan, won the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes at York on Friday.
It was a second consecutive triumph in the race for the horse, although the running of the 2008 race had to be rescheduled for Newmarket.
The 9-1 shot came through the middle of the field with a burst of speed to catch the front-running Benbaun.
Pre-race favourite Kingsgate Native came home sixth in the 16-strong field.
Wetheby-based trainer Bastiman was thrilled by his success, particularly after the 2008 race had to be relocated to Suffolk because of a flooded course at York.
"It's brilliant to win on our home ground. We're only eight miles away, so it's just the job," he said.
"He comes right at this time of year and I keep telling everybody that. He likes that fast pace and got a nice lead today."
Pat Cosgrave had partnered the seven-year-old on his previous 10 starts, but was replaced at the behest of the trainer for the race but Callan admitted his decision to ride had been something of a gamble.
"I had a bad fall yesterday and I was a bit worried I wouldn't make it today, but I made the right decision in taking off my last two rides so I was 100%," he said.

Midday lands Nassau Stakes spoils Glorious Goodwood

2009-08-02T20:22:00.000+01:00

Queally made the most of the tricky conditions to clinch victory
The Epsom Oaks runner-up Midday returned to winning form with victory in the Nassau Stakes on the final day of the Glorious Goodwood meeting.
After heavy rain there had been doubts whether the filly would handle the soft ground at the Sussex course.
But trainer Henry Cecil decided she would run and his faith was justified as the 11-2 shot, ridden by Tom Queally, ran out an easy winner.
Meanwhile, the big sprint, the Stewards Cup, was won by Genki at odds of 14-1.
Steve Drowne's mount pulled away from his rivals in the final furlong to win by a length from the David Nicholls-trained Evens And Odds (33-1).
Top-weight Knot In Wood was a gallant third, three-quarters of a length away, with the favourite Markab fourth.
The weather had caused some difficulties in the Nassau Stakes as the field came across to the stands side in the straight but it was Midday who was in front as the runners emerged from the gloom.
She kept on strongly to win by two-and-a-quarter lengths, with the favourite Rainbow View in second, ahead of Moneycantbuymelove.

Give your reaction to Midday's victory
Midday had struggled in the mud at the Curragh when finishing third to Sariska in the Irish Oaks and Cecil admitted afterwards that he had nearly pulled her out of this race but lost his bottle.
"She doesn't like it soft but I had seen her work well on good to soft and they were going through it," he said.
"The times of the other races weren't too bad so I took a chance but then thought 'God, I have done the wrong thing'.
"I couldn't watch the race and felt quite sick but I heard everyone shouting 'come on Midday, come on Midday' so I knew that we weren't tailed off."
Queally, who clinched his third Group One race of the season, was full of praise for Cecil.
"She did it well and she's back to her best. Henry stuck his neck out and said he wanted to run," he added.
"We just didn't want to break her heart again and disappoint her [on soft ground] but she went on it better than I thought she would - Irish soft ground and English are two different things and this proved it."
Nassau Stakes
1. Midday (T P Queally) 11-2 2. Rainbow View (J Fortune) 5-2 Fav 3. Moneycantbuymelove (J P Spencer) 17-2 10 ran. Dist: 2¼, ½
Stewards Cup
1. Genki (S Drowne) 14-1 2. Evens And Odds (W A Carson) 33-1 3. Knot In Wood (B McHugh) 10-1 4. Markab (P Cosgrave) 15-2 Fav 26 ran. Dist: 1, ¾

Henderson to get personal hearing

2009-07-01T10:22:00.000+01:00

Henderson is facing the prospect of a fine or a ban
Leading trainer Nicky Henderson will have a personal hearing with the British Horseracing Authority on Thursday over the Moonlit Path case.
Henderson was last week found guilty of breaching the rules of racing after the horse, who he trains for the Queen, failed a drugs test.
The 59-year-old had the right to request the personal hearing, which will be heard at 1600 BST.
He faces the prospect of either a heavy fine or a ban from the sport.
Last week, Henderson was found guilty of administering the prohibited anti-bleeding drug tranexamic acid to Moonlit Path before she finished sixth in a race at Huntingdon in February.
The Lambourn-based trainer had admitted three of the four charges he faced, but denied any wrongdoing in relation to the BHA's Rule 200, which governs administrating or attempting to administrate a positive substance.
He also insisted at that hearing that there had been no intention to enhance the horse's performance.
Moonlit Path was making her racecourse debut at Huntingdon and has since run three times.
The race was won by another Henderson-trained horse, Ravello Bay.

Sariska heads Epsom Oaks line-up

2009-05-30T21:44:00.000+01:00

Sariska will be the filly to beat at Epsom Downs
Ante-post favourite Sariska heads 12 confirmations for Friday's Oaks at Epsom racecourse.
Michael Bell's filly heads the betting for the Classic following a superb display in the Musidora at York.
Last year's champion juvenile filly, Rainbow View, will be looking for a big improvement after finishing only fifth in the 1000 Guineas.
Henry Cecil is in search of a ninth win in the race with Midday, who won the Lingfield Oaks Trial on her last start.
She is likely to closely contest the Group One mile-and-a-half race having come second in the Blue Riband Trial against the colts at Epsom earlier in the season.

Ireland's representatives come in the form of Aidan O'Brien's Cheshire Oaks winner Perfect Truth and Jim Bolger's Oh Goodness Me.
Barry Hills' High Heeled, Clive Brittain's Nashmiah and Wadaat and Sir Michael Stoute's Phillipina are other contenders in with an outside chance.
Amanda Perrett's Tottie represents last year's winning owner, Julian Richmond-Watson, while The Miniver Rose and Three Moons complete the list.

Master Minded snatches Irish win

2009-04-29T09:28:00.000+01:00

Master Minded has won the last two Queen Mother Champion Chases
Odds-on favourite Master Minded endured a big scare before earning a narrow win in the Kerrygold Champion Chase.
The double Queen Mother Champion Chase winner was given a narrow lead after the last, but only because of a jumping error by eventual runner-up Big Zeb.
Barry Geraghty's mount recovered well and almost hauled in Master Minded, with Ruby Walsh on board, at the line.
However the 30-100 favourite clung on to win by a head to collect his fourth Grade One victory of the campaign.
Master Minded led all the way and the race appeared sewn up when Paul Nicholls' horse produced a big jump three from home to move four lengths clear.
But the Colm Murphy-trained Big Zeb reduced the six-year-old's lead and looked to have moved into a slight advantage before getting it all wrong at the last.
The mistake enabled Master Minded to move two lengths clear again but Big Zeb regrouped to produce a last-gasp charge before the finishing post came just in time for the English raider.
It was a fifth Grade One success in all for the French import, starting with the 2008 Queen Mother success.
He's won, and that is what it's all about
Master Minded's trainer Paul Nicholls
Winning trainer Nicholls felt that his horse had got "a little bit idle" during the race.
"Last year at Cheltenham he got a real fast-run race and I think he could probably do with a bit of company and a good gallop.
"It's the back-end of the season and I thought he looked as well as he's looked for a long time. But some of ours that have been in since last July have run a bit flat of late.
"He's won, and that is what it's all about," concluded Nicholls.
Big Zeb had failed to complete on his two most recent chasing starts, prior to a confidence-booster over timber at Fairyhouse a little over two weeks ago.
Geraghty said: "He's got his head down after the last, and was only beaten a head, so it was a great run - although it's disappointing to be beaten."
Trainer Murphy echoed Geraghty's sentiments, adding: "It's a pity to get so close and not quite get there.
"Our fellow is still on the up, and is still inexperienced, so we have something to look forward to next year."

McCoy bides time on National ride

2009-04-01T21:30:00.000+01:00

JOHN SMITH'S GRAND NATIONAL, Aintree: Saturday 4 April, 1615 BST Coverage: Full TV coverage from Aintree on Thursday and Friday on BBC2 and online from 1345, and on Saturday from 1300. Saturday - radio coverage on BBC Radio 5 Live and live text commentary on BBC Sport website & mobiles

McCoy's 2008 National mount, Butler's Cabin, is entered once again
Tony McCoy will leave punters guessing until as late as possible over his chosen mount for the Grand National.
The 13-time champion jockey has made no secret of his desire to add this race to his catalogue of success and has the choice of four JP McManus-owned horses.
Butler's Cabin, a warm order in the betting for Saturday's big race, appears the most attractive option.
But McCoy fell from the nine-year-old 12 months ago and is thought to be considering a switch to L'Ami.
Butler's Cabin, trained by Jonjo O'Neill in Gloucestershire, was travelling superbly for McCoy before parting company with his jockey in an uncharacteristic fall at Becher's Brook on the second circuit.
He has been quietly campaigned in shorter handicaps this term and is priced at around 9-1 for the four-and-a-half miler.
606: DEBATE
I do hope McCoy rides Butler's Cabin as I have him ante-post but the longer Tony takes to announce his ride the more nervous I'm getting
shortheadwin
L'Ami, trained in Ireland and a 20-1 shot, has had a fine season but has a history of poor jumping and was another to fall in the 2008 National.
McManus' racing manager Frank Berry insists there is no rush for McCoy to decide which of the owner's four entries he will ride.
But it would be a big shock if he went for either Can't Buy Time (40-1) or Reveillez (100-1).
Berry said: "There is no pressure for Tony to make up his mind, because we have jockeys ready for the other horses. I'm sure he will wait to see what the ground is on Thursday morning.
"Butler's Cabin jumped well for a long way last year and has come back and run a good race in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham.
"He's a bit higher in the weights this year but he has come out of his last race well - and you would have to be pleased with him."
He jumps fences the best way for a National horse, he's not extravagant and is quite a clever horse
Brooklyn Brownie's trainer Malcolm Jefferson
L'Ami made it only as far as the second fence 12 months ago, ending the riding career of Mick Fitzgerald with a crashing fall.
Berry said of the 10-year-old gelding: "He's been round the cross-country courses a few times since and he has got sharper at it. He's fit and well, so I hope he will run a good race."
Meanwhile, Malcolm Jefferson believes Brooklyn Brownie (33-1) could go well, having finished second over the giant fences in the Grand Sefton back in November.
The trainer said: "I just thought we'd give him a run over the National fences, because he's always had the appetite to jump. He ran well to finish second, and I said to his owners then if everything went right we would aim for the National - and that's what we've done.
"He jumps fences probably the best way for a National horse, because he's not over extravagant and he is quite a clever horse. Over four-and-a-half miles, you never know - but he ticks a few boxes."
Clerk of the course Andrew Tulloch said conditions on the Grand National course were expected to be good, good to soft in places. He said: "We are forecast to receive some rain on Friday night which is either going to be 1-2mm or 4-5mm depending on who you listen to.
"It has been a dry week, and there isn't any sign of rain coming before Friday, so we will continue to selectively water the Mildmay and Hurdle courses where needed."
The official going for the Mildmay and Hurdle courses is good.

Pipe backs Madison for Gold Cup

2009-03-02T14:19:00.000Z

Madison du Berlais claimed Denman's scalp at Kempton earlier this month
Trainer David Pipe believes his charge Madison du Berlais is a live contender to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
The eight-year-old beat Gold Cup holder Denman at Kempton three weeks ago and is now the 8-1 fourth favourite for the 13 March blue riband event.
"I didn't think I would be saying at the start of the year that we have a live Gold Cup candidate," said Pipe.
"He is a great horse and deserves his chance. He is young and improving and has place chances in the race."
Kauto Star, the 2007 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner and runner-up last year, has been installed as favourite after stablemate Denman's defeat at Kempton.
Kauto Star reinforced his own claims with a third straight win in the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day, while another Paul Nicholls runner, Neptune Collonges, who handed the trainer a 1-2-3 in the Gold Cup 12 months ago, is third favourite.
606: DEBATE
I fancy Neptune Collonges for the Gold Cup
tj_hammerMadison du Berlais, who won the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury in November, will be ridden by Tom Scudamore, who will try to achieve what his famous father and Martin Pipe stalwart Peter never did - win a Gold Cup.
"This will be my fourth ride in the race, and up to now I have been having a good view of things (of the finish) from the top of the hill," said Scudamore.
"So it is great to be going there on a horse with a real live chance. We will see if his run when beating Denman was a true performance, but it was a tremendous performance on the day anyway.
"He has done us proud. I am really looking forward to it. He has won on good and soft ground, over all sorts of distances and goes left and right-handed.
"I don't know if I will have a sit on him again beforehand. I will leave that to Mr Pipe and the team. They have done a great job with the horse at home - he is in very good form."

McCoy quest for landmark delayed

2009-01-30T12:17:00.001Z

Tony McCoy rode Stradbrook to victory at Wincanton for win number 2,998
Tony McCoy's quest to ride 3,000 winners over jumps has been put on hold after Chepstow's Friday meeting was abandoned because of a sodden track.
McCoy edged to 2,998 winners with victory onboard Jonjo O'Neill's Stradbrook at Wincanton on Thursday and was poised for three rides at Chepstow.
Weather permitting, he could sew up the record at either Sandown or Doncaster on Saturday.
The Irishman, 34, has been champion jockey for 13 straight seasons.
The win on Stradbrook - McCoy's only scheduled ride of the day - came after a tense finish as the 3-1 favourite edged out Oiseau De Nuit and Tender Falcon.
"I don't think he really got up the hill at Cheltenham last time and he really battled," he said.
"He was in front and then was headed and I'd swear he only got his head back in front on the line."

Bendigo
McCoy previously admitted he was frustrated not to be able to close in on the mark on Wednesday at Leicester.
"It would have been nice to have done it (on Wednesday) because JP McManus is my boss and has been very loyal to me. He has been a great man to work for," said McCoy.
"I would really like to do it in his colours, if at all possible."
After securing a double at Kempton on Monday, the champion jockey was unsuccessful with two rides at Taunton on Tuesday where Jokers Legacy finished second, while Larks Lad was pulled up.

Kauto Star eyes King George glory

2008-12-23T11:43:00.001Z

Kauto Star won his previous King George's by eight and 11 lengths
Paul Nicholls' Kauto Star heads a field of 11 for the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day.
The 2007 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner is bidding to become the second horse, after Desert Orchid (1988-90), to win the Christmas race three years running.
War Of Attrition has withdrawn, opting for the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown.
But Old Vic and Exotic Dancer, who were second and third last year, go again, while Voy Por Ustedes steps up to three miles for the first time.
Voy Por Ustedes is a former Queen Mother Champion Chase winner and, like Exotic Dancer, is owned by Sir Robert Ogden.

Supplementary entry Snoopy Loopy, who took advantage of a dramatic final-fence exit by Kauto Star to take the Betfair Chase, represents Peter Bowen.
Nigel Twiston-Davies runs Paddy Power Gold Cup winner Imperial Commander.
Completing the line-up are Air Force One, Briareus and Mont Misere.

Snoopy handed Hennessy go-ahead

2008-11-26T20:39:00.000Z

Hennessy Gold Cup: Newbury 1440 GMT Saturday Coverage: Channel Four TV; Commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live; Report/results BBC Sport website

Snoopy Loopy tops the Order of Merit with 40 points
Surprise Betfair Chase winner Snoopy Loopy will be given the chance to follow up in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday.
Trainer Peter Bowen said his Haydock hero, who won after Kauto Star stumbled at the last, was a "definite runner".
Knowhere headed 21 horses left in the big race at the confirmation stage.
Nigel Twiston-Davies' Old Roan Chase winner has top weight, with Exotic Dancer, Cloudy Lane and Joe Lively withdrawn from the line-up.
Favourite Big Buck's is one of four entries for Paul Nicholls, along with My Will, Ornais and Dear Villez.
Royal & SunAlliance Chase winner Albertas Run and Character Building are among other leading contenders.
Welsh trainer Bowen has made the decision to run his 10-year-old so quickly as he is officially 10lb well in at the weights.
Snoopy Loopy's Haydock triumph extended his lead at the head of the Order of Merit.
"The Order of Merit has been the target since day one of the season for Snoopy Loopy," said Bowen.
"The £200,000 prize-money that is put up is a big incentive for any trainer who has the right horse."
Bowen said he may pay a supplementary fee to enter his horse in the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day.
Slim Pickings, Royal County Star and Patsy Hall comprise a three-strong Irish challenge.
'Leading chance'
Nicholls, who won the race in 2007 with the top weight Denman, is confident of mounting a strong challenge
"The Hennessy Gold Cup has always been the target for Big Buck's since the end of last season," he said.
"He is in good health and would have a leading chance on Saturday on last season's form, but as always it is a very competitive looking race.
606: DEBATE
Who is your big fancy for the Hennessy?
"I also think that Dear Villez will run very well."
Meanwhile, trainer Charlie Mann believes his representative Air Force One will run well after taking second in the United House Gold Cup at Ascot on his return to action earlier this month.
"He's been jumping out of his skin since Ascot and I thought he ran a blinder that day as he normally improves for his first run," said Mann.
"He has been trained specifically for this race and I could not be more pleased with him right now.
"He ticks all the right boxes and he is an improving horse."
Knowhere is set to carry 11st 12lb with bottom weight Island Flyer, on just 10st, the subject of some strong support from punters.
Meanwhile at Newcastle, the 2007 Champion Hurdle winner Sublimity will aim to give Robbie Hennessy the perfect start to his training career in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle.
Sublimity, formerly trained by John Carr, lost his crown to Katchit at Cheltenham in March after an interrupted preparation.
But despite never even having a runner in his native Ireland, Hennessy hopes he can land the Grade One event with his first entry.
"It's been trouble-free with him so far - we've had a great run of luck with him and he's very good," said Hennessy.

Knowhere collects Old Roan Chase

2008-10-27T16:29:00.001Z

Knowhere and Paddy Brennan on their way to victory on Sunday
Knowhere won the Old Roan Chase under a fine ride from Paddy Brennan to give trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies another significant early season winner.
Mister McGoldrick made an error at the final fence and the favourite Oslot ran out of gas soon afterwards at Aintree.
That left the 10-year-old Knowhere (8-1), kept handy throughout, to battle out the finish with Exotic Dancer.
He won by a length from the Jonjo O'Neill-trained Exotic Dancer (8-1) with Snoopy Loopy third at 12-1.
Brennan said afterwards: "I just wanted to make it into a war and if it was a war I would win.
"He's a hell of a horse and what a training performance. Nigel is always the underdog when it comes to training winners but for me he's the best trainer I've ridden for."
Knowhere had won the Letheby And Christopher Chase at Cheltenham in January, then came sixth in the Gold Cup before failing to sparkle on his final two starts of the last campaign.
He'll probably go straight [to the King George] because I'm not sure there's much for him
Voy Por Ustedes' trainer Alan KingO'Neill was thrilled with Exotic Dancer, who will now be geared towards the Betfair Chase at Haydock - a race in which he finished second last year.
"I'm delighted with that and he jumped and travelled well all through the race," said O'Neill.
Champion Chase runner-up Voy Por Ustedes finished a fine fourth under top weight. He is now likely to step up to three miles for the first time in the King George VI Chase at Kempton, for which he was cut to 4-1 from 9-2 by Paddy Power.
"I'm pleased it's out of the way," said trainer Alan King. "He just took a little blow going in to the ditch.
"We are very happy with that - especially at the weights and on this ground. He'll almost be definitely be targeted at the King George, but he'll probably go straight there because I'm not sure there's much for him."
Intercasino.co.uk Old Roan Limited Handicap Chase:
1. Knowhere (P Brennan) 8-12. Exotic Dancer (A McCoy) 8-13. Snoopy Loopy (S Durack) 12-212 ran. Dist: 1 length, 2.5 lengths

Apostle claims narrow Diadem win

2008-09-28T20:51:00.000+01:00

Diadem Stakes at Ascot
King's Apostle sprang a surprise when winning the Diadem Stakes at Ascot on Sunday by a neck ahead of Diabolical.
The 12-1 shot, trained by William Haggas and ridden by Liam Jones, just edged out Frankie Dettori's well-backed mount, who was sent off 11-2 favourite.
Sir Gerry (13-2) was third in a tight finish, ahead of Prime Defender.
King's Apostle got his nose in front having been third in the Wokingham Handicap at Royal Ascot and second in the Stewards' Cup at Glorious Goodwood.
Maureen Haggas, wife of trainer William, said the application of a visor appeared to help the horse in the Group Two contest.
"He's not been over-raced this year and ran a cracking race here in the Wokingham and the Stewards' Cup," she said.
"He was going to race in Singapore at the end of last year but we kept him here to get some black type (for winning a Listed race) and he's rewarded us."
Sixties Icon booked his ticket to the Breeders' Cup for a crack at the new marathon race with victory in the Grosvenor Casinos Cumberland Lodge Stakes at Ascot.
The 11-10 favourite, winner of the 2006 St Leger, stood still as the gates opened.
But Dettori soon galvanised Sixties Icon and he enjoyed a dream passage through his rivals as a gap opened inside the final two furlongs.
John Guest Diadem Stakes, Ascot
1 King's Apostle (W Haggas) L Jones 12-1
2 Diabolical (L Dettori) 11-2 fav
3 Sir Gerry (J P Spencer) 13-2
15 ran

Rain causes York to be abandoned

2008-08-20T11:52:00.000+01:00

A waterlogged track prevented racing on Tuesday or Wednesday
The rest of York's Ebor Festival has been cancelled after an inspection of the course.
Full story to follow after two days were lost to bad weather.
Heavy rain meant no racing was possible on the first two days of the meeting, which includes the Juddmonte International Stakes.
Festival organisers may extend racing to Saturday or even use an alternative venue if conditions do not improve.
Around 100,000 racegoers were expected to attend the four-day meeting.
King George winner Duke of Marmalade and Derby hero New Approach had been set to go head-to-head in the Juddmonte, and other high-profile races on the card include St Leger trial the Ladbrokes Great Voltigeur Stakes and the Tattersalls Millions Acomb Stakes.
"It is extremely frustrating for everyone and we are looking at options for Thursday and Friday," said clerk of the course William Derby.
"We are still hoping to race then and if we get a dry 24 hours then we are still hopeful of racing Thursday and Friday.
"We are also considering racing on Saturday and going through the implications and logistics of taking that unprecedented move.
"We are also looking at whether we can stage extra feature races on Thursday and Friday, including the totesport Ebor. We are making every effort to do that as it is our feature race.
"Ruth Quinn, the British Horseracing Association director of racing, is in York and she is contacting other people including the Levy Board, other racecourses concerned and the broadcasters and those conversations are on-going."
The clash between Duke of Marmalade and New Approach was due to be the highlight of the festival.
Duke Of Marmalade has chalked up four Group One wins this season, while New Approach has not run since his triumph at Epsom in June.
Former champion trainer Henry Cecil was hoping for a third success in the race, with both Multidimensional and Phoenix Tower named in the 11-strong field for the 10 furlong race .
John Gosden's Pipedreamer was also declared but but Gosden said he would only run if the ground was suitable.
Sir Michael Stoute had Linngari and Rob Roy entered while Mick Channon also had two runners in Championship Point and Halicarnassus.
David Elsworth's Stubbs Art, third in both the English and Irish Guineas, and Duke Of Marmalade's stable companion Red Rock Canyon complete the line-up.

O'Brien claims 15th Group One win

2008-07-28T10:25:00.001+01:00

O'Brien's horse Duke of Marmalade won at Ascot on Saturday
In-form trainer Aidan O'Brien secured his 15th Group One win of the season as Mastercraftsmen took victory in the Phoenix Stakes at The Curragh.
The Danehill Dancer colt, ridden by Johnny Murtagh, sprinted clear to put up the best performance by a two-year-old so far this season.
Jamie Spencer was four-and-a-half lengths behind on the pre-race favourite Art Connoisseur.
Mastercraftsman is now favourite for the 2000 Guineas, in from 16-1 to 6-1.
Murtagh was very complimentary about the winner afterwards, in the absence of O'Brien who was watching his son compete in a three-day event.
"Aidan said to me during week the horse was ready for today," said Murtagh.
"He's coming on all the time and although he had a hard race the last day he probably needed it. "We wanted to make it a good solid pace as he probably needs seven furlongs.
"He was very professional and honest, and has a great stride."

Frozen Fire takes Irish Derby win

2008-06-30T15:35:00.001+01:00

Seamus Heffernan also won the race on Soldier of Fortune last year
Aidan O'Brien became the first trainer to win the Irish Derby three years in a row after Frozen Fire claimed a surprise win at The Curragh on Sunday.
Jockey Seamus Heffernan timed his run to perfection as the 16-1 chance came through the field with a furlong to go.
After a stewards' inquiry, favourite Tartan Bearer was promoted to third place with Casual Conquest in second.
O'Brien's victory was his sixth in the race, bringing him level with legendary namesake Vincent O'Brien.
"It's unbelievable," said Aiden O'Brien, who won the race with Dylan Thomas in 2006 and Soldier Of Fortune last year.
"We always thought this horse had a lot of class and Seamus gave him a very good ride.
"This is down to a lot of people - it's been a privilege to have been involved in it.
"Seamus has worked very hard and is a great judge of a horse. Nobody deserves it more than Seamus and I couldn't be happier for him.
"This is marvellous. The race was a full, solid mile-and-a-half and there are no excuses.
"All of ours have run great races, but I think Alessandro Volta got stage-fright when he turned into the straight - he wouldn't have seen a crowd like that in front of him before.
"The Curragh is probably the greatest racecourse in the world as it is a very fair track and really tests a horse."
Hindu Kush made most of the early running as the genuine contenders bided their time, and Johnny Murtagh's Alessandro Volta took over at the head of the pack as the race began to enter the final stages.
It looked to be a straight foot race between even-money favourite Tartan Bearer, Alessandro Volta and Curtain Call, but Murtagh's mount suddenly veered left.
Curtain Call seemed to be the worst affected and Frozen Fire was in the right place at the right time to seize control of the race and surge to a two-length victory.
"Aiden always trains them for the big day and this is a big day," said Heffernan.
"I was riding him to try to get placed and he is a bit weak but I was happy to get a lead and follow some of the fancied ones.
"It's unbelievable to win this two years in a row - it's a dream."
The stewards demoted Alessandro Volta from third place after the race.
Ante-post favourite New Approach was withdrawn on the morning of the race with a bruised foot, denying Jim-Bolger's horse the chance to become the first to complete the English-Irish Derby double since 2002.
Irish Derby result:
1. Frozen Fire (J A Heffernan) 16-12. Casual Conquest 4-13. Tartan Bearer Evens fav4. Curtain Call 8-1
11 ran

Stars rally round injured trainer

2008-04-29T19:38:00.000+01:00

Mr Alner trained the 1998 Gold Cup winner, Cool Dawn
A trust fund in aid of a Dorset trainer who broke a bone in his neck in a car crash has been launched.
Robert Alner suffered life-threatening injuries after his car collided with a telegraph pole in Dorset last November.
Many of the biggest names in jump racing were at the fund's launch and the trainer's wife Sally said the family were "deeply touched".
"Both of us are overwhelmed by all the support Robert has received since his accident," she said.
"People have been amazing and the Injured Jockeys Fund has been there for Robert from day one.
"We can't thank everyone enough for all their efforts and are deeply touched that a fund has been set up for him."
Alner's long-time stable jockey Andrew Thornton is one of the trustees.
He said: "There are lots of practical things we can do to make Robert's life a little easier when he resumes back at the yard.
"Unfortunately most of them cost money. That's why we are launching a fund to help him."
Alner, 64, suffered serious neck injuries in the accident and is continuing to make steady progress at Odstock Hospital, near Salisbury.
The Robert Alner Fund has already been boosted by contributions from a dinner dance at Cheltenham racecourse in January.
Lambourn trainer Charlie Mann is organising a golf day on 30 June while champion trainer Paul Nicholls handed over his winning percentage from his hunter chase victories this season.
A special ball at Wincanton racecourse on 11 October is also planned

Equine flu hits Sydney racehorses

2007-09-02T10:05:00.000+01:00

The outbreak will cost the industry millions of dollarsEight Australian racehorses have tested positive for equine influenza, forcing the suspension of Sydney's spring carnival racing.
The horses are based at Randwick racecourse in Sydney, the headquarters of racing in New South Wales.
The racecourse will be quarantined for 30 days to try to contain the outbreak.
The flu was first detected in recreational horses in Sydney last week, forcing a ban on horse movements and the cancellation of race meetings.
The primary industries minister for New South Wales, Ian Macdonald, said the flu could spread quickly through the Randwick stables, where some 700 thoroughbreds are based.
Some of Australia's finest thoroughbreds are stabled at Randwick and it is also home to some of the country's leading trainers.
The flu was found in eight of 10 horses from the stable of Randwick trainer Anthony Cummings.
'Grim day'
The outbreak is devastating blow to the racing industry, reports the BBC's Nick Bryant in Sydney.
The suspension of racing will cost millions of dollars, not just to the horse industry but to the bookmakers. There are fears of major job losses.

Jobs at the Randwick racecourse are threatened"It is more than a disaster, it is a grim, black day," Racing New South Wales Chief Executive Peter V'Landys told reporters.
He said the cancellation of Sydney races would have a significant impact on the Melbourne spring carnival, including the Melbourne Cup, Australia's most prestigious horse race which takes place in November.
"The cream of the horses are based at Randwick and Warwick Farm (in Sydney). You have leading trainers at Randwick. None of those horses now will be able to compete in Melbourne," he said.
Meanwhile, about 100 people, 30 of them children, remained quarantined following an outbreak in Warwick, Queensland state. Equine flu does not affect humans, but can be carried on clothing or footwear.

Sakhee's Secret lands fourth win

2007-07-13T21:47:00.001+01:00

Sakhee's Secret has now won four races in a rowSakhee's Secret won his fourth race in a row by taking victory in the Group One July Cup at Newmarket on Friday.
Steve Drowne's 9-2 mount beat Dutch Art by half a length, with 16-1 shot Red Clubs one and a quarter lengths back in third place in the six furlong race.
"He's a youngster and is as good as I've ridden," said Drowne afterwards.
Bentley Biscuit had another poor day, coming home 10th out of 18 runners, and Soldier's Tale was withdrawn before the race because of the going.
July Cup result:1 Sakhee's Secret (S Drowne) 9-22 Dutch Art (J Fortune) 5-13 Red Clubs (M Hills) 16-118 ran

Rebel set for Royal Ascot opener

2007-06-15T09:47:00.000+01:00

Double Guineas winner Cockney Rebel is one of a potential field of 11 for the St James's Palace Stakes on the opening day of Royal Ascot on Tuesday.
Cockney Rebel is aiming to emulate the brilliant Rock of Gibralter, who won both the English and Irish 2000 Guineas before winning at Royal Ascot.
But the Geoff Huffer-trained colt faces a five-strong challenge from Rock of Gibralter's trainer Aidan O'Brien.
They include French 2000 Guineas winner Astronomer Royal.
The Irish trainer's other four possible runners are Excellent Art, an unlucky fourth in France, Duke Of Marmalade, fourth in the English and Irish Guineas, Archipenko, winner of the Derrinstown Derby Trial, and Sorolla.
The £250,000 St James' Palace Stakes, which is run over a mile, is the opening Group One race of the five-day Royal Ascot meeting.
Dutch Art, from the stable of Derby-winning trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam, was second to Cockney Rebel at Newmarket and could re-oppose his rival at Royal Ascot.
Also lined up for the St James' Palace Stakes is Jim Bolger's Creachadoir, who was second in both the French and Irish Guineas.
David Wachman's He's A Decoy, Brian Meehan's Jack Junior and William Jarvis' impressive Silver Bowl winner Tobosa complete the field.
The other Group One race on the opening day of the Royal Ascot is the Queen Anne Stakes, which sees the eagerly-awaited return to the track of George Washington.
The four-year-old, also trained in Ireland by O'Brien, was sent to stud at the end of last season.
But after suffering fertility problems, his owners decided to resurrect his racing career.
The colt will face a maximum of eight rivals, who could include dual Group One-winning filly Red Evie, victor in the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury.
James Fanshawe's Cesare, who won the Royal Hunt Cup at the meeting last year, has been supplemented for the race.
Other possible contenders include Sir Michael Stoute's Jeremy, winner of the Jersey Stakes 12 months ago.

Dwyer secures Regime Derby ride

2007-05-25T14:04:00.000+01:00

Dwyer has won both the Oaks and Derby at EpsomThe 2006 winning jockey Martin Dwyer will replace banned rider Jamie Spencer on Regime in the Epsom Derby on 2 June.
Dwyer, who triumphed on Sir Percy last year, was booked by trainer Michael Bell after Spencer's suspension.
Former champion Spencer will miss the Derby meeting after losing his appeal on Monday to overturn a suspension imposed by French stewards.
Spencer got two bans - one for six days and one for four - for his riding in the French 2000 Guineas on 13 May.
The 26-year-old was contesting the four-day suspension but France Galop rejected his appeal.
Spencer was due to ride second favourite Dalvina in the Oaks on 1 June and 20-1 chance Regime in the Derby.
French jockey Oliver Peslier is now likely to be on board Dalvina.
In other jockey news, Ted Durcan has been secured by trainer David Elsworth to ride his Derby contender Salford Mill, currently second favourite behind Authorized.
Dwyer boasts good form around Epsom, having tasted Classic success on board Casual Look in the 2003 Oaks, and Regime won his Derby trial well at Sandown..
"Martin has ridden an Oaks winner and a Derby winner so he rides the track very well," said Harry Herbert, racing manager of the Highclere Thoroughbred Racing syndicate, which owns Regime.
"Regime will go to Epsom on Thursday with Martin on board to have a spin around Tattenham Corner.
"We think he is going in to the race underrated as we have always thought the world of him. He ran a big race in the Goffs Million and might have won if he was on the other side."
"The favourite will be a very tough nut to crack but hopefully we will be in a position to test him."
Dettori will ride the favourite, Authorized, who was an impressive winner of the Dante Stakes at York last week.
The Italian-born jockey will be having his 15th ride in the world's most famous Flat race but is still seeking his first victory.
Spencer's French suspension comes on top of a two-day penalty imposed in Britain, which he appealed against unsuccessfully to the Horseracing Regulatory Authority last week.
It ruled him of action on 23 and 24 May, but the Irish rider will now have to sit out all meetings held between 25 May and 3 June.