King George VI Chase (Grade 1) - Kempton Park, 26th December 2013
The 23rd, 24th & 25th December bring about a quiet period for punters with no racing over these 3 days; However, this drought is ended in some style on the 26th when boxing day brings along the busiest day in the racing calendar & despite two meetings already being abandoned as a result of the weather there are still 11 cards scheduled across Britain & Ireland for punters to get stuck into. The Highlight of which is none other than The King George VI chase from Kempton Park, a race which is only second in stature to Cheltenham's famous Gold Cup.
The King George VI has been won by some of the great chasers over the years, the likes of; Arkle, Silver Buck, Wayward Lad & Desert Orchid have all been victorious in this historic race. See More Business & Kauto Star are a few of the big names from the modern era to also take this prestigious prize, both of which have trained by Paul Nicholls who has dominated this race in recent years, claiming 5 of the last 7 runnings all with the Magnificent Kauto Star & once again the Somerset trainer looks to have a strong hand this year with two entrants among a select field of only 9 runners.
There may only be 9 runners who go to post for this years renewal but when you consider that 5 of 9 runners are previous winners at Grade 1 level & 3 of the other 4 have won at Grade 1 level as a novice, there can be no denying that this is a race full of top quality performers. Current champion trainer Nicky Henderson will be hoping for back to back success in this race as he saddles 2 runners including last years winner Long Run who bids to become only the 4th horse to take the race for a third time. It seems worthwhile to bear in mind that plenty of these horse have run against each other on several previous occasions & have beaten each other in various different combinations which is why the punting in the early market looks very tight & for horses who know each other very well it could be a race where the tactics of the jockeys play a big role.
Runner by runner preview (each runner given a rating between 1-10) -
AL FEROF - The first of the Paul Nicholls duo, a winning grade 1 hurdler & a horse who looks fairly unexposed as a chaser at this level. Wasn't seen on course for just over a year before making his reappearance in a Grade 2 Chase at Ascot back in November, while he did look well that day he only had 1 other rival to race against & although the job was seen out well winning by a comfortable 8 lengths it was hard to gage really where he is at considering the horse defeated was rated 18lbs his inferior, although that horse has gone on since to finish 2nd in a valuable handicap chase at Cheltenham. Before that year long absence though Nicholls gelding was last seen winning the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham in November 2012. On that occasion he carried top weight to stay on strongly & win by 3 lengths, the manner in which he gained that victory gave the impression that he stays very well & that the step up to 3 miles today for the first time should play to his strengths. Interesting to see that he's the choice of stable jockey Daryl Jacob & it's unlikely Nicholls would have entered him here if he wasn't at the required level, dangerous to dismiss stepping up in trip.
Overall Rating = 8
CHAMPION COURT - 4th in this race last year & Martin Keighley's gelding has put in plenty of respectable efforts since then, including a win in grade 2 company at this year's Cheltenham festival & a respectable 7th in the Paddy Power Gold Cup carrying one of the top weights on seasonal reappearance. Last time out he finished a half length 2nd behind another of today's runners Riverside Theatre in the Peterborough chase (grade 2) at Huntingdon recently, that was a respectable run & but for a mistake at the last he may have gone closer. Only previous try at 3 miles was in this race last year & despite finishing 4th he was some way of the leaders, so there has to be a question mark over whether he can stay the trip as well as some of these. Yet to win at grade 1 level & while he could improve on that latest run it looks as though improvement would certainly be required if he was to seriously get involved here. Overall Rating = 4
CUE CARD - The Tizzard stable's star could only manage 5th in this race last year but since then has been in great form, taking 3 grade 1 contests & finishing 2nd in another, including a win at this year's Cheltenham festival. His Most notable performance came last time out when impressively winning the betfair chase at Haydock after being stepped up to 3 mile 1 furlong for the first time, proving that he stays the trip really well by strongly powering clear to beat Dynaste by 4 & a half lengths. He was impressive in the betfair so is fully deserved of coming here as the early favourite. The Tizzard's have said in a report that "he has come out of the Haydock race really well & that he was in his comfort zone over the longer trip". Overall he has proven himself as a top performer at this level & if turning up in the same form as last time he should undoubtedly be in the mix. Overall Rating = 9
DYNASTE - David Pipe's gelding was one of the top novice chasers from last season, boasting a record of 111212 from his last 6 appearances including a 9 length win over C&D in the Feltham novices chase on boxing day last year. Proved that he was still going in the right direction when making his seasonal reappearance in his biggest test yet last time out when running very respectably behind Cue Card in the Betfair at Haydock. Given that the Betfair was his first run of the season & in the best race he has face to date he performed with real credit & showed that he is probably still improving, it is highly likely that he will be better for that run & it wouldn't be at surprising to see show further improvement here. He has proven form around the track & with further rain forecast this can play to his strengths. Can improve again & has to be seen as one of the big players. Overall Rating = 10
LONG RUN - Not seen at his best since winning this race 12 months ago & looking though he could be vulnerable once again now facing the prospect of some young improving types. He beat 3 of today's field in this race last year & while he pulled 14 lengths clear with the second place horse to gain a hard fought victory he hasn't been able to go on from that form & is still searching for his next win. Was sent off the 4-5 favourite on seasonal reappearance in a grade 2 at Wetherby & finished well down the field some 40 lengths of the eventual winner. Last time out despite improving on his first run he could only manage 4th in the Betfair chase & was some 15 lengths behind the front 3 who all go in today's race. Jockey Sam Waley-Cohen has said that "as he get's older he takes longer to get fit" so realistically Nicky Henderson's gelding should be better off having had 2 runs now this season & now the visor is fitted for the first time so it wouldn't be a surprise to see him improve. At early prices of around 10/1 he could be worth an EW shout, but a return to his form of old looks desperately needed. Overall Rating = 6
MENORAH - A grade 1 winner as a novice back in April 2012 but since then Phillipp Hobbs' charge has failed to really land a blow at the top level & looks a rightful outsider in this field. The fact that the 8 year old is making his seasonal reappearance in this race also looks a negative & it's hard to envisage that he could be up to level of some of these who have had the benefit of a run or two before this. Last time out he finished 3 parts of a length behind Champion Court back at the Cheltenham festival in April, on that form he looks held by a rival who looks an unlikely winner himself. Has finished a long way behind both Cue Card & Silviniaco Conti on previous occasions & it would be a big surprise is he could seriously get involved in here. Looks best watched. Overall Rating = 3
MOUNT BENBULBEN - Gordon Elliot enters Ireland's only runner here & despite a convincing winner of a grade 1 novice chase at Punchestown towards the end of last season that form looks some way off the what would be required to win this. Made his seasonal reappearance at the beginning of November at Down Royal but seemed to be struggling halfway before unseating his rider. Should be better off & no doubt his trainer has got him right after that but looks another who is a deserved outsider & it would be a surprise to see him get involved with the big players in this one. Overall Rating = 2
RIVERSIDE THEATRE - 2nd to Long Run in this race in 2011, Nicky Henderson's other entrant in the is another who seems to have slipped under the radar somewhat but it shouldn't be forgotten than this 9 year old is 3 times a winner at Grade 1 level & showed signs last time out on his seasonal reappearance that he could be coming back to his best. Winner of the Ryanair chase at the 2012 Cheltenham festival but after that disappointed in his further races that season & was only seen twice last season where he failed to produce on either occasion. During his recent off season break he underwent a breathing operation which to all seemed to have had the desired effects when he stayed on gamely to win the grade 2 Peterborough chase on his reappearance beating Champion Court by half a length. He is entitled to be better off for that win & comes here looking a far better prospect than he did in this race last year. For win purposes he might not be at the level some of these are but he can certainly build on that latest win with the first time blinkers fitted here so shouldn't be discounted. All in all if he's back to near his best then can perhaps get involved at likely bigger odds than most, could be worth the EW money. Overall Rating = 7
SILVINIACO CONTI - Winner of the 2011 Betfair Chase (grade 1) beating Long Run by the best part of 3 lengths, also going well in last seasons Gold Cup when fell 3 out. Made a pleasing seasonal reappearance in this season Betfair chase behind Cue Card & Dynaste, like the latter that was his first run of the season so he should be a lot sharper for it. Has previous winning form around this C&D to his name which should hold him in good stead. Has proved he can cut it at this level & with improvement likely after a respectable effort last time out he is no back number here as the early market would suggest (5/1), Can go well for top trainer with an excellent record in this race & wouldn't be a surprise to see him get seriously involved.
Overall Rating = 8
As with most of the big grade 1 chases this should be a great race to watch unfold. Any feedback on this review would be greatly appreciated as always, either use the comments below or get in touch via twitter; @tipsfromchirpy.
Sunday 6th October 2013
Qatar Prix De L'Arc De Triomphe (Group 1)
With the flat season drawing to a close in the UK, the majority involved turn their attentions to Longchamp where Europe's premier middle distance thoroughbreds take to the biggest stage & go head to head in the continent's richest turf race, namely 'The Arc'. The french name of the race translates as "It's not a race, it's a monument" & i'm sure that connections would agree with this as they come here hoping that their entries can go on from strong performances in their own countries & take the ultimate prize.
The big group 1 races are often tight & they don't come any bigger than this one, so every runner in this field deserves their place, therefore nothing should be completely disregarded. Great Britains charge is 4 strong & those four all bring forward very strong credentials. Starting with the Ed Dunlop trained JOSHUA TREE, easily the least fancied of the British trained 4 & was below his best recently. Best form came over in America when winning a group 1 at Woodbine over today's trip but hasn't been able to reach those heights since. AL KAZEEM lines up for the Charlton stable here & He has been one of the stand out group 1 horses this season back in the UK winning 3 times & jockey James Doyle has said that today's trip of a mile & a half should suit very well & this may well be what he needs to get really competitive again after going slightly off the boil recently, does have the widest draw of the lot to contend with though so looks up against it. Aiden O'Brien sends over 2 runners, firstly St Ledger hero LEADING LIGHT, who looked a real top stayer when winning the final classic of the season from the front & while he isn't without a chance in this, he may well set the pace & therefore set the race up for a strong finish which could play right into the hands of the second of O'briens runners, Epsom Derby winner RULER OF THE WORLD who looked back to the level that is expected of him when last seen finishing a close second in the Prix Niel. He is sure appreciate the easing ground & a big run from him under one of the strongest finishers around in Ryan Moore could see him right up there.
On other fronts, for France Andre Fabre saddles no less than 5 runners most notably INTELLO, who comes into this as another who should relish the easing ground & has shown that he can compete at group 1 level when winning the Prix Du Jockey Club over 10f back in June, Staying on well so today's trip should suit & he's not without a chance. Fabre also enters FLINTSHIRE & OCOVANGO who finished 1st & 3rd respectively in the group 1 Grand Prix De Paris over C&D back in June, The latter of which also finished only 3 parts of a length behind the aforementioned Prix Niel runner up so both of these command a level of respect. Japan's KIZUNA beat Ruler Of The World by a short head in the Prix Niel last time out & he stayed on well i think he was a tad fortunate & can see Ruler Of The World is getting a clear run reversing that form. KIZUNA won that race none the less & ran well so is entitled to his place here, could be more to come but might find one or two too strong. France's Stand in this race is strengthened further by trainer Head-Maarek's unbeaten filly TREVE, who's winning performance over C&D last time out in the group 1 Prix Vermielle screamed class, She showed on that day that soft ground is of no trouble to her as she brushed aside the field on the rail inside the final furlong & looked as though she had more in the tank. Frankie Dettori's injury this week means he can't take the mount but Frankie loss is Thierry Jarnets gain. This filly looks set to put down a strong challenge to maintain her unbeaten record & looks a key player despite a wide draw. The early market leader ORFEVRE is another challenger of Japan, who was the runner up in this race last year when overcoming the widest draw to sweep round the field & look to have the race all but won before not seeing it out properly & being done on the line. Has had only the one run since in group 2 over C&D a few weeks ago & ran out an easy winner. Does have these little strange tendencies but if he brings his top game tomorrow there is every chance he will be hard to beat under top jockey Christophe Soumillon & has a much better draw this year.
Chirpy's Verdict -
There can be no denying that there are plenty who have the credentials to go well here & it would be ill advised to conclusively rule out any of those towards the front of the market especially. It is an interesting fact that in the last 19 runnings of this race 15 have been won by 3 year olds. INTELLO, FLINTSHIRE, AL KAZEEM, OCOVANGO & KIZUNA all make some each way appeal at likely bigger odds but in my opinion on the hard evidence the winner is likely to come from the following 3. RULER OF THE WORLD proved he was over his Curragh disappointment last time out & could get the strong finish he should thrive on providing stable mate Leading Light sets the pace as anticipated. The Filly TREVE looked a real class act last time out & if getting the correct position to execute that potent turn of foot he has a very good chance. ORFEVRE has to be on anyone's short list despite his tendencies & the fact he looked to have the race sewn up last year after going the long way round from stall 18 means a repeat of that sort of form would see him right up there.
Hopefully readers find this review both helpful/useful & as always if anyone has any questions or feedback then do contact me via twitter or on the email which can be found on the home page. Good luck with whoever you choose.
Saturday 14th September 2013
Doncaster 15:50 Ladbrokes St Leger Stakes (Group 1)
This year's renewal of the final classic race of the season looks an interesting one, where plenty seem to be in with a chance & several have something to prove one way or another. One thing's for sure that come 15:50 Tomorrow, everyone who loves racing will be watching & will have their opinion on who the winner should be. The ever thriving Godolphin team took this race last year with 25/1 shot Encke & they return this year with 3 contenders LIBERTARIAN, SECRET NUMBER & CAP O'RUSHES who will all be aiming to replicate last year's success for the same owners. The O'brien team had to settle for second last year as Odds on favourite Camelot came up short, they saddle LEADING LIGHT who is seeking a 5 timer & FOUNDRY who is ridden by Ryan Moore both are bound to be well supported. Elsewhere John Gosden enters the improving EXCESS KNOWLEDGE who was last seen when a close second in the Gordan Stakes (Group 3). Epsom Oaks winner TALENT is also likely to have her share of supporters despite her disappointing effort last time out in the Irish Oaks. The Consistent GALILEO ROCK may also be one for consideration. All in all this years race looks to have plenty of interesting runners & like so many of the big races could prove a hard nut for punters to crack.
See below for a more detailed look through each of the runners, where i have given each a rating from out of 10.
CAP O'RUSHES - One of the three Godolphin entries, who won the group 3 Gordan stakes at Goodwood at the end of July but then was a disappointing 6th of 7 runners last time out at York over the same trip of 12f in a group 2 event & before those two runs was a Moderate 4th in the Irish Derby so there is no doubt that the horse has some ability at this level & the fact that this colt is entered today suggests that he perhaps does need further to get really competitive. Does have winning form on tomorrow's forecast ground on Good to soft but overall form looks patchy & Looks the stable (C Appelby) second string behind LIBERTARIAN. Overall Rating = 5
EXCESS KNOWLEDGE - This John Gosden trained colt has only had the two runs this season & has performed with promise on both of those. Firstly back in July ran a decent 3rd in a listed event over 10f & last time out finished 2nd behind Cap O'Rushes in the Gordon stakes at Goodwood but was tried at that trip for the first time & the way he ran on well in the final furlong suggests that today's further trip of 15f should suit, that run last time out came on ground good to soft so tomorrow's further easing ground shouldn't pose a problem. James Doyle a very positive booking & will no doubt enhance this colts support in the market. Looks more progressive than some of these & also less exposed, Doesn't look one to dismiss easily.
Overall Rating = 8
FOUNDRY - Comes into this for only his third ever racecourse start & in fairness looks as if he is possibly the O'Brien stable's second string here. Was a very decisive winner of 7f maiden in november last year & was then waited with until racing in a York group 2 event last month where he finished a very respectable 2nd behind the well regarded Telescope. The fact he won his maiden on soft ground is a definite positive & That run last time out showed he is no mug, still unexposed but having said that it looks as though he would have to improve a fair bit for this step up in trip to get seriously involved in this company. Overall Rating = 6
GALILEO ROCK - Shows solid place form at group 1 level & no more so than when finishing 3rd in the Derby at Epsom & then backing that up with a solid second in the Irish Derby behind the very consistent group 1 performer Trading Leather. That run in the Irish Derby looks particularly interesting as he ran on really well that day showing that the step in trip here ought to suit. Has not encountered ground worse than good when running at this level but did win his maiden last year on ground good to soft, so that shouldn't be too much of a problem. I think if handling the step up in trip as he looks he will & if replicating his recent form at this level could see him be a big player here & looks to have solid place claims. Overall Rating = 9
GREAT HALL - Big step up in class here for this colt who was last seen winning a class 2 handicap at Haydock over 14 furlongs & while that was a decent win he would surely need to improve a lot to compete at this level. Unraced on ground worse than good & all in all looks as though he may be a little out of his depth here. Big outsider & unless dramatic improvement he certainly isn't one for any real confidence.
Overall Rating = 2
HAVANA BEAT - This colt has consistently run at group 2 & 3 level this season so far for Andrew Balding's yard but is yet to really threaten in a race of that type. His best performance to date is probably when finishing 3rd of 8 in a group 3 at Newmarket over 13f & while he ran on well that day which suggest today's step in up trip could see him do better, he looks as though he would have to bring a career best to figure in this one. His Only run so far that came on ground softer than good was last time out which saw him finish last of 7 in the Gordan Stakes at Glorious Goodwood so doesn't look one for maximum confidence.
Overall Rating = 4
LEADING LIGHT - Comes into the race looking for a 5 timer having won the last 4 of his 5 career starts. Looked a decent improver when winning his first attempt at group 3 level at the Curragh back in may over 10f, followed that up nicely when upped to 2 miles with a decent win in another group 3 event at Ascot in June, That win is a real positive when you think about today's trip. Has won on varied ground including heavy so shouldn't be any problems on that front. Certainly looks the sort who could keep improving further & if continuing her ascent this O'Brien trained colt may have enough to get competitive in this company. Will no doubt be popular in the market & not one too dismiss lightly. Overall Rating = 7
LIBERTARIAN - On the facts & figures this colt looks like Godolphins biggest player here & is expected to run well by many. Didn't look himself last time out in the Irish Derby & never figured, but the ground was perhaps too fast for him that day. If he is forgiven that performance his second in the Derby at Epsom looks particularly impressive, he stayed on very well that day which is a good indication that he may be well suited by today's extra 3 furlongs. Before those two runs he did beat the Irish Derby winner Trading leather over 10f at york so there is no doubt that this horse is one of class & deserves his place in this line up. Won his maiden on ground good to soft so should be fine in that respect. If repeating the sort of display he showed in the Epsom Derby then he has the ability to surely go close here. Overall rating = 9
RALSTON ROAD - Has ran three races at group level this season including at group 1 but he has failed to really get involved in any of those & Looks as if he could be outclassed here once again today. He was an average 8th of 15 over 16f at Ascot in the group 3 race that was taken by Leading Light which is probably his best form in relation to today's race. Has run on a variety of grounds but still looks as though he would have to improve by a large quantity to get seriously involved in this. Overall rating = 2
SECRET NUMBER - Has been running in both group 2 & 3 events so far this season & has ran only ok in them in all honesty & his best form has come when he has been raced over in Dubai on the synthetic surface. He did shape a decent third last time out in a group 2 behind the impressive Telescope but didn't do a great deal in behind. The fact that he is entered he probably suggests he may be suited by this trip but in all honesty that is something that is taken without an real hard evidence. Others looks much better off in this one. Overall Rating = 4
TALENT - Was a disappointment last time out when finishing last in the Irish Oaks & never really threatened to get involved, the ground may have been too quick for him that day. Before that run he looked ever bit a top class group 1 performer when winning the Epsom oaks in fine style, running on very well that day to suggest that the step up in trip today shouldn't be a problem. That Epsom Oaks win came on ground good to soft which is similar conditions as should be faced for this one so that is a big plus. If putting that poor performance last time behind him & continuing the improvement shown in the Epsom Oaks he could well bounce back a get involved at business end here. Not one to dismiss & could potentially be a good EW bet at likely bigger odds than a few. Overall Rating = 7
CHIRPY'S VERDICT
It really does look an intriguing renewal, with the unexposed sorts of EXCESS KNOWLEDGE & LEADING LIGHT expected to continue their improvement & go well. It could pay though to side with the consistent performer GALILEO ROCK who could be a very good EW bet while the price allows. LIBERTARIAN & TALENT are also two who could have a big say if bouncing back from poor results in Ireland & reproducing their impressive Epsom form.
Saturday 28th September 2013
Newmarket -
14:35 Connoly's Red Mills Cheveley Park Stakes (Group 1) (Fillies, 2YO)
Some of this season's best 2 year old fillies gather here for this one & like always at group level the race is filled with some of the top stables & jockeys who line up ready to go head to head once more, one things for certain is that this is definitely not a race that lacks quality so we should be in for an exciting race which will ultimately determine which filly comes out as the top 2YO of the season. Below i have gone through each runner & given then a rating out of 10.
ALUTIQ - This Eve Johnson Houghton filly showed some solid promise when making a winning start on debut back in April at Kempton over 5f & followed that up by winning a handicap event at Newbury also over 5f two races later, but has perhaps not gone on from that how her connections may have wanted. Following that Newbury Success she stepped up to contest a group 2 at Royal Ascot & certainly wasn't disgraced when finishing 7th of 23 runners behind the very impressive Rizeena, in my eyes this is her best run to date. Since then she has finished a solid 5th in a big fielded valuable handicap but her last two runs (one at group 2 & last time at listed company) have been moderate at best finishing 5/9 & 4/6. Majority of her runs have come on the good to firm ground so no problems there although i think she would have to improve a fair bit & produce by far her best run yet to take this one. Overall Rating = 4
COME TO HEEL - This Irish runner is coming over to England for the first time which on that evidence alone suggest he should be pretty useful. Only had two runs to date & has won them both so not much more could be asked of her in that respect. First time out over today's trip of 6f she kept on well to win a maiden at Cork & she followed that promise up with a decent win in listed class next time out under a hands & heels ride from Wayne Lordan & gave the impression that there was perhaps more in the tank if needed. No doubt about it today's task is much harder & although she is not fully exposed & looks as though she should be still improving i think she would need to improve some way & may find a few of these two strong when it comes down to it. Overall Rating = 6
DOROTHY B - This filly represents the John Gosden stable here & she has shown some promise on her three outings to date. Firstly winning a maiden pretty much at ease on her second start at Nottingham over 6f after looking in need of experience when running greenly on debut. That nottingham win came on good too soft ground & she seemed to relish the easing ground. Her best performance to date came last time out in listed company when beaten into second by only a neck by another of today's runner Joyeuse, that run came on good to firm show she looks as though she could be a versatile sort in terms of ground. That run last time out earnt her an official rating of 102 which means potentially she should be closely matched with a few of these & while further improvement is not guaranteed it is likely. Depending on how much improvement we see she could run well & may be worth an each way bet but perhaps taking this might be a bit out of reach. Overall Rating = 6.5
JOYEUSE - Lady Cecil's entry here is another runner here who comes into this for only her fourth racecourse appearance & has she has shaped with plenty of promise so far. Her best performance came when she finished a respectable 3rd of 19 behind one of today's biggest players Kiyoshi in the group 3 Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot back in June. She ran on well that day from off the pace to finish 3-4 lengths behind the winner. That run was definitely an improvement on her winning debut run & she followed them both up with a win at listed company last time out when finishing a neck in front of the above mentioned Dorothy B so those two potentially closely matched & could have an interesting battle again today. All in all she looks a decent prospect who has shown she can mix it a group 3 level, I'm not quite sure whether she can cut it at group 1 level & would have to some some 4 lengths with Kiyoshi, but with a lot of these also stepping up for the first time if she continues an upward curve she can run a decent race & may be a viable each way bet. Overall Rating = 7
KIYOSHI - Comes into this as one of the big players & rightly so. This Charlie Hills trained filly has shown plenty of quality on her 4 starts to date. After running a creditable 4th on debut in a big field she wasted no time looking back & decisively landed a goodwood maiden over 6f beating the recent group 2 winner Ihtimal by 1 1/2 lengths. Her last two runs still confirm that she is on the up, when firstly winning the 6f group 3 Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot by a decent margin & lost nothing last time out when finishing 2nd behind Rizeena at Curragh after stepping in to 7f to contest a group 1 race for the first time. The good to firm ground is of no problem & today's drop back to 6f i think should only be viewed as a positive. Her form last time out is definitely some of the best on offer & if in the same mood here she could be very hard to beat & should be up there at the business end. Overall Rating = 9
PRINCESS NOOR - Roger Varian's entry showed last time out in group 3 event at Ascot that she definitely does have some ability in big races when beating the well thought of Queen Catrine by 2 lengths, but her form in behind that doesn't look too appealing where she finished a moderate 5/8 & 9/19 in group 2 & 3 races respectively. That 9th came in the Albany Stakes at Royals Ascot & she ended up some 8 lengths behind Kiyoshi who is one of the ones who sets a pretty solid standard here so she would have plenty to find for this. That win last time out was a decent one none the less & if further improvement is on the cards then she can put in a decent run but would need to produce by some way her best effort to date to win this & is probably one for an EW bet at best. Overall Rating = 6
RED LADY - Frankie Dettori's mount comes into this for her fourth racecourse outing. She did indeed show promise when decisively winning a maiden on her second race by 4 lengths over 6f at Haydock & that run came after she finished last of 9 on debut in a warm maiden which produced a top 2YO as the winner in Rizeena. Last time out she was unable to really impress & build on that good maiden success when she was only a moderate 11th of 19 in the Albany Stakes who everyone will know by now was Kiyoshi, so she has plenty of ground to make up with her. All in All i don't think she has shown enough to get seriously involved here today & it would take some considerably improvement after her 99 days off for her to cause an upset here. Overall Rating = 2
VORDA - This French raider comes over to Britain for the first time today & therefore shouldn't be taken lightly as anything the French send over is usually quite handy. She made light work of her first 3 starts by winning all of them including a listed stakes & a group 2 event, both at Maissons-Lafitte & both over 5f. In addition to this excellent start she lost nothing in defeat when stepping up to 6f for the first time last time out in a group 1 event at Deauville when she was beaten by the outstanding american sprinter No Nay Never & she also had Rizeena in behind her that day. The only slight doubt you may have is that she will be experiencing the quickest ground to date with the forecast good to firm but she's looked a class act so can handle this i expect. That latest form puts her right at the front of the que for this one & has to be greatly feared, She is the early priced favourite & i don't think anyone could really argue with that & she should have a bold showing in her which ought to see her right up there. Overall Rating = 9
Chirpy's Verdict -
As with most Group 1 races this should be a good one to watch for the spectator. Kiyoshi & Vorda based on their proven group 1 form (strong form at that) look probably the pair to be concentrating on, neither of them should be disregarded here & are likely to be closely grouped at the front of the market. Come to Heel, Dorothy B & Joyeuse all have likely improvement in them & if continuing on their upward curves any one of them could be a decent EW bet if your looking for something at slightly bigger odds than the two that are likely to dominate the market. All in All though for me Kiyoshi & Vorda can settle this between the two of them & we could potentially see a fascinating battle.
I hope readers find this review both helpful & interesting & as always i would love to hear any feedback anyone might have, just write to me on twitter. Good Luck with whoever you choose!
15:10 Kingdom Of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes (Group 1) (Fillies, 3YO +)
The feature race of the day & its set to be good one, with most of the hype around the renewal of the rivalry between the Hannon trained Sky Lantern & John Gosden's Elusive Kate, the pair fought out a controversial ending over C&D in the Falmouth stakes back in July when Elusive Kate come out on top & they look set to play a big part in what should be another fascinating contest. On other fronts the likes of Charlie Hills & Sir Michael Stoute enter some big runners, while Chigun & Duntle go forward for Lady Cecil & D Wachman respectively. On the whole it looks like spectators have another interesting group 1 race to enjoy. Below i have gone through each runner in more & given them an overall rating.
CHIGUN - Lady Cecil's entry comes into this one the back of some poor displays of late after showing some decent promise towards the end of last season. Her last two runs have come at group 1 level where she has been unable to really get involved finishing 7th of 12 7 9th of 12 at Leopardstown & Deauville over in France. Her best form to date came back in may when she ran out a ready winner in a decent group 3 event over 8f at Curragh, this race showed that she has got some talent but she has been unable to go on from that & is yet to prove that she can really cut it at this higher level. If you go back through her races i think you could draw conclusion that she prefers the ground on the firmer side so today's should suit but neverless it looks as though she would have to put some poor efforts behind her and show lots of improvement to get seriously competitive here. Overall Rating = 4
DUNTLE - This Irish Raider comes into this one on the back of what was probably her best piece of form so far when she finished 2nd in a group 1 last time out at Deauville in France but was beaten over 2 lengths that day by one of the biggest players in this one Elusive Kate so it looks as though she would still need to find more to go one better here, admittedly the ground was probably too soft for her liking in that one & today's firmer ground looks to suit better but still has a bit to find. DUNTLE has proved over the past two years that she is a solid group level horse winning 3 times at group 2 & 3 & she has also proved that she can cut it at Group 1 level having finished 2nd on both of her two attempts to date, including when only beaten a head over 8f a leopardstown back in september last year. Overall she isn't one to disregard lightly but is probably best thought of as an each way bet in this one. Overall Rating = 7
ELUSIVE KATE - John Gosden's 4 year old is considered a big player for this one & i think you'd have to be on another planet to disagree, If there's one thing she definitely shows is consistency at the top level, running from the front she is workman like but with class & has reaped the rewards at group 1 level several times over the last few years showing figures of; 10 runs, 4 wins, 4 placed, so her consistency is there for all to see. Her most relevant piece of form in terms of this race has to be when she won the Falmouth stakes over C&D back in July & although it was somewhat controversial with a stewards enquiring into her hampering the second placed Sky Lantern by running across, there wasn't to much in it & in all honesty she always looked to be holding Sky Lantern. All in all she has proved herself to be a very consistent Group 1 performer & although she ran poorly last time out if she bounces back to near her best today in conditions that look to suit she should be right up there & is certainly not one for dismissing. Overall Rating = 9
LA COLLINA - Showed plenty of promise as a 2 year old and didn't waste much time when winning a group 1 event over 6f at the Curragh on only her third racecourse start but then failed to go on from that & was only able to post placed efforts at Group 1, 2 & 3 until recently when she was a surprise 25/1 winner of a group 1 at Leopardstown over today's trip of a mile. She has shown her best overall form i think on good ground so today's quick firmer ground might not be ideal. Her overall form is pretty patchy & certainly doesn't scream consistency, there's also no guarantee that she'll be able reproduce that run last time out although if she did she could be an interesting prospect. Overall she doesn't look one for maximum confidence but if in same mood as last time out could have each way claims. Overall Rating = 6
INTEGRAL - Sir Michael Stoute's 3 year old has won 3 of her 4 outings so far & has shown some promise in doing so. Her best form came last time out when she ran on strongly in a group 3 event over today's trip of a mile at Sandown to force a dead heat on the line. Before that sandown run she raced in a group 1 event over 10f at Goodwood & in all honesty never got into it. Although she ran well last time out i think she would have to shown large improvement today to get seriously involved & although Ryan Moore is a positive rider & he does have his moments of magic she would have to lay down her biggest performance to date to have a real say in this. Overall Rating = 4
JUST THE JUDGE - Hailing from the well known Charlie Hills stable, this 3 year old has won 4 of her 7 racecourse outings & has placed on two of the other 3 (6 at group level) so doubt that she is a horse with some definite talent. Her best form came when she was seen winning the Irish 1,00 Guineas at the Curragh back in late may. Either side of that victory she was beaten by today's early Favourite Sky Lantern, firstly over C&D in the 1,000 guineas & then at the Royal Ascot meeting in the Coronation Stakes. She has looked as though she can certainly mix it at group 1 level despite a poor run last time out but the trip wasn't ideal & back at her optimum now but she looks to have a bit to find with Sky Lantern if she is to really lay down a big challenge here, foolish to dismiss but might find one or two too strong at the business end. Overall Rating = 7
SKY LANTERN - The ever present Hughes/Hannon combination head into this seeking revenge on Elusive Kate for the Falmouth & this filly is definitely a big danger here & is worthy of being on the front end of the market. 3 times a winner at group 1 level & there is no doubt she has class. Her most impressive displays came back to back when she won both the 1,000 Guineas & the Coronation stakes at Ascot in fine style, that run at Ascot was particularly impressive where she was held up & travelled into the race really well, quickening clear inside the final furlong to win decisively by 4 lengths. She looked set to make it a hat trick when finding Elusive Kate hard to pass in the Falmouth all be it being hampered by the winner. All in All if she is in her best mood today this filly could be hard to beat & she looks set to renew her rivalry with Elusive Kate in what looks to be a fascinating clash. On her best form she should be right up there & is a main player in this. Overall Rating = 9
Chirpy's Verdict -
There are a couple here with something to prove & how the race pans out in running could have a big say in the outcome. Realistically the pair to focus on could well be The Falmouth rival SKY LANTERN & ELUSIVE KATE, who both need to bounce back from below par runs last time out but assuming they are capable of doing that they look set to give spectators another good showing & i think the latter could prove a hard one to pass once again if she is given a soft lead.
I hope readers find this review both helpful & interesting & as always i would love to hear any feedback anyone might have, just write to me on twitter. Good Luck with whoever you choose!
ELUSIVE KATE - John Gosden's 4 year old is considered a big player for this one & i think you'd have to be on another planet to disagree, If there's one thing she definitely shows is consistency at the top level, running from the front she is workman like but with class & has reaped the rewards at group 1 level several times over the last few years showing figures of; 10 runs, 4 wins, 4 placed, so her consistency is there for all to see. Her most relevant piece of form in terms of this race has to be when she won the Falmouth stakes over C&D back in July & although it was somewhat controversial with a stewards enquiring into her hampering the second placed Sky Lantern by running across, there wasn't to much in it & in all honesty she always looked to be holding Sky Lantern. All in all she has proved herself to be a very consistent Group 1 performer & although she ran poorly last time out if she bounces back to near her best today in conditions that look to suit she should be right up there & is certainly not one for dismissing. Overall Rating = 9
LA COLLINA - Showed plenty of promise as a 2 year old and didn't waste much time when winning a group 1 event over 6f at the Curragh on only her third racecourse start but then failed to go on from that & was only able to post placed efforts at Group 1, 2 & 3 until recently when she was a surprise 25/1 winner of a group 1 at Leopardstown over today's trip of a mile. She has shown her best overall form i think on good ground so today's quick firmer ground might not be ideal. Her overall form is pretty patchy & certainly doesn't scream consistency, there's also no guarantee that she'll be able reproduce that run last time out although if she did she could be an interesting prospect. Overall she doesn't look one for maximum confidence but if in same mood as last time out could have each way claims. Overall Rating = 6
INTEGRAL - Sir Michael Stoute's 3 year old has won 3 of her 4 outings so far & has shown some promise in doing so. Her best form came last time out when she ran on strongly in a group 3 event over today's trip of a mile at Sandown to force a dead heat on the line. Before that sandown run she raced in a group 1 event over 10f at Goodwood & in all honesty never got into it. Although she ran well last time out i think she would have to shown large improvement today to get seriously involved & although Ryan Moore is a positive rider & he does have his moments of magic she would have to lay down her biggest performance to date to have a real say in this. Overall Rating = 4
JUST THE JUDGE - Hailing from the well known Charlie Hills stable, this 3 year old has won 4 of her 7 racecourse outings & has placed on two of the other 3 (6 at group level) so doubt that she is a horse with some definite talent. Her best form came when she was seen winning the Irish 1,00 Guineas at the Curragh back in late may. Either side of that victory she was beaten by today's early Favourite Sky Lantern, firstly over C&D in the 1,000 guineas & then at the Royal Ascot meeting in the Coronation Stakes. She has looked as though she can certainly mix it at group 1 level despite a poor run last time out but the trip wasn't ideal & back at her optimum now but she looks to have a bit to find with Sky Lantern if she is to really lay down a big challenge here, foolish to dismiss but might find one or two too strong at the business end. Overall Rating = 7
SKY LANTERN - The ever present Hughes/Hannon combination head into this seeking revenge on Elusive Kate for the Falmouth & this filly is definitely a big danger here & is worthy of being on the front end of the market. 3 times a winner at group 1 level & there is no doubt she has class. Her most impressive displays came back to back when she won both the 1,000 Guineas & the Coronation stakes at Ascot in fine style, that run at Ascot was particularly impressive where she was held up & travelled into the race really well, quickening clear inside the final furlong to win decisively by 4 lengths. She looked set to make it a hat trick when finding Elusive Kate hard to pass in the Falmouth all be it being hampered by the winner. All in All if she is in her best mood today this filly could be hard to beat & she looks set to renew her rivalry with Elusive Kate in what looks to be a fascinating clash. On her best form she should be right up there & is a main player in this. Overall Rating = 9
Chirpy's Verdict -
There are a couple here with something to prove & how the race pans out in running could have a big say in the outcome. Realistically the pair to focus on could well be The Falmouth rival SKY LANTERN & ELUSIVE KATE, who both need to bounce back from below par runs last time out but assuming they are capable of doing that they look set to give spectators another good showing & i think the latter could prove a hard one to pass once again if she is given a soft lead.
I hope readers find this review both helpful & interesting & as always i would love to hear any feedback anyone might have, just write to me on twitter. Good Luck with whoever you choose!
No comments:
Post a Comment