So, the Racing Post launched its new website this week and, to be frank, it's a pretty poor effort.
Yes, a carbon fibre style background and lots of arrows does make the site look aesthetically good but when you actually try and use the thing, blood boils.
First and foremost, the Racing Post and Racing UK are best mates. Officially. Like a couple of gay boys, they do everything hand-in-hand. And there it is, on the homepage of the site: 'Racing UK Live Stream'. Cool, a free racing channel one may naively think. Click, click and your asked to sign a subscription to watch it.
Missed another exciting installment of the seller at Wetherby? Don't worry watch it here on the Racing Post. Just give RUK some money first, thanks.
Why do they do it? The Post is expensive enough to buy as it is and then they want more money to watch races. Good old At The Races lets you watch racing from their tracks for free.
Anyway, back to the site. It's ironic that in racing the fastest horse wins the race and there you have the Racing Post website which is probably the slowest around. I just want to quickly look at the latest news but am given options of: related stories, top stories, latest stories, racing business. It's as though their trying too hard.
Herein laid the beauty of the old Racing Post site. Everything was simply arranged in black and white with no fancy graphics and if you wanted the day's results on one page, you could get the day's results on one page.
Innovators will say I'm just sceptical of change but it's going to take a whole lot of loving to like this new bird.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. x
2 December 2008
1 December 2008
Doubting Thomas
Hello and welcome back. I've had a blogging sabbatical, learnt some martial arts and am now back louder and more opinionated than ever. Move over Big Mac, Rob Spirkett has returned!
Big news at the moment has to be the main man Sam Thomas.
He has had a shocking few days and from his last 30 odd rides has fell off 7 times which, in normal circumstances, would usually go unnoticed but when you look at what he has fallen off (Big Bucks, The Tother One, Gwanako, Kauto Star), you realise that he has been hitting the deck in some pretty big races.
It is an easy target for your couch jockey to slag Thomas off on the Betfair forum and be supported by plebs like 'chipmandave' and 'beerboylee' who are talking through their pockets. But is it really the lad's fault?
When things are going badly for a jockey, their confidence must hit rock bottom and you go out on to the track just praying that you'll finish the race. And these thoughts must be niggling at Thomas so, approaching a fence he'll probably take the safe option rather than firing them in, a choice which ultimately could cost him a few lengths and maybe the race.
Now, should Paul Nicholls give Thomas the mount on hot favourite Master Minded on Saturday in the Tingle Creek? Yes. As his boss, Nicholls should have full confidence in his jockey and let him ride the Champion Chase winner. He's proven that he can win big races; his ride on Denman in the Hennessy last year was sublime and he's ridden the quirky Kauto Star to victory.
Bad luck doesn't last forever and come Saturday afternoon, 'chipmandave' will be hailing Sam Thomas as the new McCoy.
A little tip for Wednesday is Swift Sailor in the 2.40 at Plumpton.
Laters
Big news at the moment has to be the main man Sam Thomas.
He has had a shocking few days and from his last 30 odd rides has fell off 7 times which, in normal circumstances, would usually go unnoticed but when you look at what he has fallen off (Big Bucks, The Tother One, Gwanako, Kauto Star), you realise that he has been hitting the deck in some pretty big races.
It is an easy target for your couch jockey to slag Thomas off on the Betfair forum and be supported by plebs like 'chipmandave' and 'beerboylee' who are talking through their pockets. But is it really the lad's fault?
When things are going badly for a jockey, their confidence must hit rock bottom and you go out on to the track just praying that you'll finish the race. And these thoughts must be niggling at Thomas so, approaching a fence he'll probably take the safe option rather than firing them in, a choice which ultimately could cost him a few lengths and maybe the race.
Now, should Paul Nicholls give Thomas the mount on hot favourite Master Minded on Saturday in the Tingle Creek? Yes. As his boss, Nicholls should have full confidence in his jockey and let him ride the Champion Chase winner. He's proven that he can win big races; his ride on Denman in the Hennessy last year was sublime and he's ridden the quirky Kauto Star to victory.
Bad luck doesn't last forever and come Saturday afternoon, 'chipmandave' will be hailing Sam Thomas as the new McCoy.
A little tip for Wednesday is Swift Sailor in the 2.40 at Plumpton.
Laters
2 June 2008
Riding with Handlebars
Cast your mind back to 19th Century England; new technologies were appearing everyday in the build up to the Industrial Revolution and the country was the heart of a vast empire. But look a little closer. Can you see it? Yes, the jockeys had moustaches.
It's a rare sight nowadays to see a jockey with any facial hair at all, never mind structured handlebars.
The only jockey I have seen with pre-determined stubble is Mr G Edwards who rode in an amateur race once at Wolverhampton. Obviously the trend never caught on.
Looking back in the history books (ie. a quick search on Google), Tom Corrigan, an Australian jockey during the 1890s, was the last big name to sport a distinctive upper-lip hairstyle. At the time, in any part of the world, moustaches were common place at the racecourse with boys as young as five sporting one (albeit fake).
But times have changed. Today, any grown man seen with a caterpillar above his lip is either: a) a phsychopath, b) a paedophile or c) an accountant.
I think I can link this change in opinion to one man: Hitler.
But what are the practical aspects of letting the hair above the top lip grow? Well, for a start, think of all the mud and kickback that would get stuck in the hair. You'd pull up after 1m6f at Southwell and look like Father Christmas, maybe slightly less friendly. Also, having a tashe must be less aerodynamic, those extra whiskers could be the difference between winning and, well, being beaten by a whisker.
However, think of all the attention a distinctive facial trim would bring - lots of photos, strokings and maybe some women.
So, in conclusion to this scientific investigation, it would be extremly funny to see Frankie Dettori do a flying dismount with his handlebar moustache blowing in the breeze but, alas, I fear it will never happen. Why not do what England usually does in times of unhappiness - blame the Germans.
It's a rare sight nowadays to see a jockey with any facial hair at all, never mind structured handlebars.
The only jockey I have seen with pre-determined stubble is Mr G Edwards who rode in an amateur race once at Wolverhampton. Obviously the trend never caught on.
Looking back in the history books (ie. a quick search on Google), Tom Corrigan, an Australian jockey during the 1890s, was the last big name to sport a distinctive upper-lip hairstyle. At the time, in any part of the world, moustaches were common place at the racecourse with boys as young as five sporting one (albeit fake).
But times have changed. Today, any grown man seen with a caterpillar above his lip is either: a) a phsychopath, b) a paedophile or c) an accountant.
I think I can link this change in opinion to one man: Hitler.
But what are the practical aspects of letting the hair above the top lip grow? Well, for a start, think of all the mud and kickback that would get stuck in the hair. You'd pull up after 1m6f at Southwell and look like Father Christmas, maybe slightly less friendly. Also, having a tashe must be less aerodynamic, those extra whiskers could be the difference between winning and, well, being beaten by a whisker.
However, think of all the attention a distinctive facial trim would bring - lots of photos, strokings and maybe some women.
So, in conclusion to this scientific investigation, it would be extremly funny to see Frankie Dettori do a flying dismount with his handlebar moustache blowing in the breeze but, alas, I fear it will never happen. Why not do what England usually does in times of unhappiness - blame the Germans.
30 May 2008
EXCLUSIVE: Spirit to return to Feilden
One of last year's highest rated two-year-olds, Spirit of Sharjah, is set to return to his former trainer, Julia Feilden, subject to vetting.
The son of Invincible Spirit was one of the highlights of 2007, bringing success to Feilden's small Newmarket yard after he won his first two races, including a listed race at Goodwood, and then went on to put up a brave performance in the Norfolk Stakes to finish third behind the unbeaten Winker Watson.
Indeed, it was Winker Watson's trainer, Peter Chapple-Hyam, who was to benefit from this run, since after two disappointing runs in the July Stakes and the Molcombe, Spirit of Sharjah's owner, Alan Dee, decided to send his charge to the Derby winning trainer.
But the partnership never flourished and Spirit of Sharjah showed little in four runs since the move.
And so, Dee has decided to return his steed to Feilden in the hope that they can recapture some of the former glory.
"I'm having Spirit vetted to make sure he's physically alright," said 52 year-old Feilden. "He really put me on the map last year and I hope we can win some big races with him now."
The son of Invincible Spirit was one of the highlights of 2007, bringing success to Feilden's small Newmarket yard after he won his first two races, including a listed race at Goodwood, and then went on to put up a brave performance in the Norfolk Stakes to finish third behind the unbeaten Winker Watson.
Indeed, it was Winker Watson's trainer, Peter Chapple-Hyam, who was to benefit from this run, since after two disappointing runs in the July Stakes and the Molcombe, Spirit of Sharjah's owner, Alan Dee, decided to send his charge to the Derby winning trainer.
But the partnership never flourished and Spirit of Sharjah showed little in four runs since the move.
And so, Dee has decided to return his steed to Feilden in the hope that they can recapture some of the former glory.
"I'm having Spirit vetted to make sure he's physically alright," said 52 year-old Feilden. "He really put me on the map last year and I hope we can win some big races with him now."
25 May 2008
Book(ies)
I thought I'd bring a little culture to the blog and give a literary review of some of the best and worst horseracing books around.
Let's get the crap out of the way first and by far the worst book I have read is 'Arise Sir Frankie Dettori' by Marcus Stead. This book is so full of inaccuracies, it makes the author look like he doesn't have a clue about racing. Every horse, no matter what sex, is called 'her' and the horses 'ride' in races. What annoys me most though is how much Stead sucks up to Dettori like he is trying to earn brownie points; every time there is a controversial issue in the book, Stead either ignores the matter or comes to his subject's defense. If you want to read about Frankie's life, get the autobiography and ignore this rubbish. Another howler is Richard Johnson's autobiography 'Out of the Shadows'. He was still in his twenties when this was written and he hadn't really had much of a life - the book just goes on and on 'I rode this horse and then I rode this horse...' Boring. Also avoid the 5 book Jenny Pitman series which begins with 'On the Edge' which charts the troubles of woman trainer Jan Hardy. It is predictable and soppy rather like a the failure of a programme that was 'Rough Diamond'.
Cast these pieces of excrement aside and read some real literary gems. Top of the bunch is Dick Francis' 'Field of Thirteen' - a compilation of 13 short stories which always come with an unexpected twist. If you want to read a Francis novel, read 'Whip Hand'. Once you've read one of his books, you've read them all. Forget the film, 'Seabiscuit' the book by Laura Hillenbrand is a masterpiece. Winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year, the story is brilliantly and accurately told. Hillenbrand paints the picture of the time perfectly and puts you in the centre of the action. A couple of decent autobiographies are 'Obsessed' by Richard Dunwoody and 'The Wayward Lad' by Graham Bradley. Both talk with honesty and intimacy which in the end makes you respect the men themselves. And finally. another jockey (but not an autobiography). John Francome is starting to churn out some decent stories which are never the same. 'Stone Cold' - the struggle of a young lady jockey to become a success - is one of the best whilst 'Stalking Horse' is not far behind with it's tale of a top jockey coming to terms with retirement and a stalker.
Let's get the crap out of the way first and by far the worst book I have read is 'Arise Sir Frankie Dettori' by Marcus Stead. This book is so full of inaccuracies, it makes the author look like he doesn't have a clue about racing. Every horse, no matter what sex, is called 'her' and the horses 'ride' in races. What annoys me most though is how much Stead sucks up to Dettori like he is trying to earn brownie points; every time there is a controversial issue in the book, Stead either ignores the matter or comes to his subject's defense. If you want to read about Frankie's life, get the autobiography and ignore this rubbish. Another howler is Richard Johnson's autobiography 'Out of the Shadows'. He was still in his twenties when this was written and he hadn't really had much of a life - the book just goes on and on 'I rode this horse and then I rode this horse...' Boring. Also avoid the 5 book Jenny Pitman series which begins with 'On the Edge' which charts the troubles of woman trainer Jan Hardy. It is predictable and soppy rather like a the failure of a programme that was 'Rough Diamond'.
Cast these pieces of excrement aside and read some real literary gems. Top of the bunch is Dick Francis' 'Field of Thirteen' - a compilation of 13 short stories which always come with an unexpected twist. If you want to read a Francis novel, read 'Whip Hand'. Once you've read one of his books, you've read them all. Forget the film, 'Seabiscuit' the book by Laura Hillenbrand is a masterpiece. Winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year, the story is brilliantly and accurately told. Hillenbrand paints the picture of the time perfectly and puts you in the centre of the action. A couple of decent autobiographies are 'Obsessed' by Richard Dunwoody and 'The Wayward Lad' by Graham Bradley. Both talk with honesty and intimacy which in the end makes you respect the men themselves. And finally. another jockey (but not an autobiography). John Francome is starting to churn out some decent stories which are never the same. 'Stone Cold' - the struggle of a young lady jockey to become a success - is one of the best whilst 'Stalking Horse' is not far behind with it's tale of a top jockey coming to terms with retirement and a stalker.
22 May 2008
To be honest, I didn't really care who won the Champions' League Final. I don't have a preference for either Man Utd or Chelsea and all I wanted to see was an entertaining match. The first 120 minutes of the game were alright but lacked any real drama and could have done with some more goals. Rooney never got a mention whilst Tevez missed some easy chances. Drogba didn't deserve to be sent off but I'm glad he was - the arrogant twat. What really annoys me about top-flite football nowadays is all the diving; as soon as a player is touched, he goes to ground in excrutiating agony which disappears all of a sudden when the free kick is awarded. Those football players sure do heal bloody fast. Then we went to a good old penalty shootout and you can rely on a decent English player missing his penalty. John Terry may have slipped but this miss was just a sad reflection on the England side in general.
Like Southgate, Waddle and Beckham, racecourses made some gaffes this week. How Ayr and Sandown could water the course but manage to make parts of the track too soft to race on beats me. The only reason I can think of is that there is a hole in the hose which water leaks out of and soaks that part of the track. It just wastes people's time as they travel to the races only to find out that racing is abandoned because someone kept the taps on for too long.
Another man who looked like an idiot this week was Sam Thomas at Fakenham, when he finished the race a circuit too soon. Ok, it is hard to count how many circuits you should do around the small Norfolk course but isn't it obvious that the race isn't over when none of the other jockeys are pushing their mounts and your horse is travelling so comfortably? A ban was the only suitable punishment. Live and learn folks, live and learn.
I don't really back two year olds because you never know what to suspect from them but the vibes are good for BARWELL BRIDGE to run well in the 2.15 at Goodwood today.
Like Southgate, Waddle and Beckham, racecourses made some gaffes this week. How Ayr and Sandown could water the course but manage to make parts of the track too soft to race on beats me. The only reason I can think of is that there is a hole in the hose which water leaks out of and soaks that part of the track. It just wastes people's time as they travel to the races only to find out that racing is abandoned because someone kept the taps on for too long.
Another man who looked like an idiot this week was Sam Thomas at Fakenham, when he finished the race a circuit too soon. Ok, it is hard to count how many circuits you should do around the small Norfolk course but isn't it obvious that the race isn't over when none of the other jockeys are pushing their mounts and your horse is travelling so comfortably? A ban was the only suitable punishment. Live and learn folks, live and learn.
I don't really back two year olds because you never know what to suspect from them but the vibes are good for BARWELL BRIDGE to run well in the 2.15 at Goodwood today.
16 May 2008
Stowstowquickquickstow
It's with great sadness that I bring the news to you of the closure of Walthamstow greyhound racetrack in August. I've been to the 'Stow a few times before and it was a good night out - comfortable viewing, great banter and pretty local to most of south-east England. But if a business is losing money, as the north London racetrack was, there is only one inevitability - closure. The land the track is on will probably be converted to housing and I feel this may be a signal for things to come in the greyhound racing world. Crowds are dwindling and the dogs simply aren't reliable enough betting fodder for punters. Don't be surprised if a few more tracks announce closure in months to come.
On another matter, the 'Tote Flat Ten to Follow 2008' deadline is fast approaching and I've picked out a few that might be worth putting faith in:
RAVENS PASS - disappointed many in the Craven but now he is dropped back to sprinting he should be victorious.
NEW APPROACH - he may have been beaten in the guineas but he is still a machine nonetheless.
RAMONTI - come Royal Ascot he will hose up and collect you some points.
YEATS - doesn't run much but when he does, he wins.
PEEPING FAWN - as tough as old boots and is a sure thing in the fillies' races. Expect a lot of points from her.
SEPTIMUS - might have to play second fiddle to Yeats but if the big guy lets people down then expect Septimus to take his place.
SAKHEES SECRET - improved extraordinarily last season and will no doubt be the top sprinter this one.
RED ROCKS - goes for all the big races and is always thereabouts. He'll keep a steady supply of points coming in.
FAT BOY - won't win big races but will keep winning the ones that count.
WINKER WATSON - unbeatable last season and will be this one aswell.
On another matter, the 'Tote Flat Ten to Follow 2008' deadline is fast approaching and I've picked out a few that might be worth putting faith in:
RAVENS PASS - disappointed many in the Craven but now he is dropped back to sprinting he should be victorious.
NEW APPROACH - he may have been beaten in the guineas but he is still a machine nonetheless.
RAMONTI - come Royal Ascot he will hose up and collect you some points.
YEATS - doesn't run much but when he does, he wins.
PEEPING FAWN - as tough as old boots and is a sure thing in the fillies' races. Expect a lot of points from her.
SEPTIMUS - might have to play second fiddle to Yeats but if the big guy lets people down then expect Septimus to take his place.
SAKHEES SECRET - improved extraordinarily last season and will no doubt be the top sprinter this one.
RED ROCKS - goes for all the big races and is always thereabouts. He'll keep a steady supply of points coming in.
FAT BOY - won't win big races but will keep winning the ones that count.
WINKER WATSON - unbeatable last season and will be this one aswell.
12 May 2008
All's well that ends well
That's that done until August then.
The Premier League was wrapped up this weekend and, to say the least, it didn't really capture my imagination. Kevin Keegan spoke this week of finding it impossible for his club to break into the top four of the league (Everton are the only side to have done this in the last six years) but I think the Premiership is all about two clubs. Chelsea have been given enough money to mount a challenge whilst Man Utd have earned enough money to win the title. Soon enough, these two will get bored of their English counterparts and form a new league consisting of the top clubs in Europe. I think the 'Euro Super League' is a nice name Seb Blatter.
The most interesting and competitive part of the top flight is the relegation dog fight. Derby were relegated in about December (on another matter - why did Paul Jewell go there?) but the tussle that was left proved fascinating to observe.
Fulham showed great determination to avoid the drop and Danny Murphy is a bald legend who was a favourite of mine at Liverpool but he does good deeds for the lesser clubs now.
Racing at Chester was competitive but with respect to the classic trials, I don't think there will be any winners to come from them.
Channel 4's racing coverage is top notch and their piece with Michael Owen was fascinating. The footballer really has put in a lot of time, money and effort to build one of the best training centres in Britain. However, I think many people are misled into thinking that Nicky Vaughn is a private trainer for Owen but the Toon striker was keen to suggest that this is not the case and the facilities which he has built for owners reinterates this sentiment.
If you fancy a flutter, try RAPID CITY today in the 4.00 at Yarmouth.
The Premier League was wrapped up this weekend and, to say the least, it didn't really capture my imagination. Kevin Keegan spoke this week of finding it impossible for his club to break into the top four of the league (Everton are the only side to have done this in the last six years) but I think the Premiership is all about two clubs. Chelsea have been given enough money to mount a challenge whilst Man Utd have earned enough money to win the title. Soon enough, these two will get bored of their English counterparts and form a new league consisting of the top clubs in Europe. I think the 'Euro Super League' is a nice name Seb Blatter.
The most interesting and competitive part of the top flight is the relegation dog fight. Derby were relegated in about December (on another matter - why did Paul Jewell go there?) but the tussle that was left proved fascinating to observe.
Fulham showed great determination to avoid the drop and Danny Murphy is a bald legend who was a favourite of mine at Liverpool but he does good deeds for the lesser clubs now.
Racing at Chester was competitive but with respect to the classic trials, I don't think there will be any winners to come from them.
Channel 4's racing coverage is top notch and their piece with Michael Owen was fascinating. The footballer really has put in a lot of time, money and effort to build one of the best training centres in Britain. However, I think many people are misled into thinking that Nicky Vaughn is a private trainer for Owen but the Toon striker was keen to suggest that this is not the case and the facilities which he has built for owners reinterates this sentiment.
If you fancy a flutter, try RAPID CITY today in the 4.00 at Yarmouth.
7 May 2008
Chester this week then and with the weather we're experiencing, it would be a joy to be there. I've ridden at the Roodeye a couple of times and it is some experience: because it is a track small in size, the place is always crammed full of scousers. When going to the start of a race, there are people everywhere; either side of you, up above you on the city wall and even below you in the tunnel under the track. To ride, the track is just one big bend - I don't even think the home stretch is straight. But be warned, if you're drawn wide, you might as well give up because the course exagerates the fact that the wider you go, the more ground you lose.
So, with this in mind, remember to back horses drawn low and look out for the Hollyoaks girls who occassionally frequent the Chesire track.
I know I said I shouldn't give any more tips but may I redeem myself? On Friday, NUMIDE is in the Ormonde stakes (2.45) at Chester and I think he'll be in with a squeek. On his best form, he is the best horse in the race and although this still maybe the case, he isn't guaranteed to try as hard as he should. Just look at his hurdles form; he won his first two races and then disappointed afterwards as soon as he figured out what it was all about. Hopefully, the return to the flat will spark him up and the oddity that is Chester racecourse will surprise him into running well.
Have a bit each-way at 6/1.
So, with this in mind, remember to back horses drawn low and look out for the Hollyoaks girls who occassionally frequent the Chesire track.
I know I said I shouldn't give any more tips but may I redeem myself? On Friday, NUMIDE is in the Ormonde stakes (2.45) at Chester and I think he'll be in with a squeek. On his best form, he is the best horse in the race and although this still maybe the case, he isn't guaranteed to try as hard as he should. Just look at his hurdles form; he won his first two races and then disappointed afterwards as soon as he figured out what it was all about. Hopefully, the return to the flat will spark him up and the oddity that is Chester racecourse will surprise him into running well.
Have a bit each-way at 6/1.
5 May 2008
Guineas/Guinness
I guess you want a little review of the big races over the weekend.
I was at the Rowley Mile on Saturday and it was absolutely packed full of people. The big races really do pull the spectators in.
I think the runner-up New Approach was the best horse in the 2000 Guineas and he only got beat because he had to do all the donkey work in front. Nevertheless, Henrythenavigator put up an exceptional performance to win but he may not be of the right calibre to win the Derby.
These first two were well clear of the rest and the only one to follow from them is Ravens Pass who didn't stay the trip and will run better when dropped to 6/7 furlongs.
The 1000 Guineas on Sunday was a bit of a strange race and Natagora was in the best place in front where she could avoid all the trouble in behind. One who did suffer interference was Nahoodh and Richard Hughes was adamant that he would have won with a clear run. I don't. Saoirsie Abu is the one to take out of the race; the firmer the ground, the better and I can see her winning at Royal Ascot or Glorious Goodwood this year.
The Guineas may have been the big race on Saturday, but the strangest must have been the 5.45. Henry Cecil's Anjaan was extremely immature and in the final furlong he drifted across the course to smash into another runner, nearly knocking both of them over. Despite this, Anjaan managed to rally in the last strides and win the race. How connections managed to keep the race in the stewards' room, I will never know.
But the highlight of the sporting weekend was the Championship matches on Sunday. I think Stoke won't last a minute in the Premier League but they seem to be happy anyway. Southampton put up a mammouth display to win their game and stay up but Leceister weren't so lucky. They've never been relegated to the third tier of football before and the current squad is a far cry from the one of the 90s I remember of Casey Keller, Robbie Savage, Muzzy Izzet etc.
I was at the Rowley Mile on Saturday and it was absolutely packed full of people. The big races really do pull the spectators in.
I think the runner-up New Approach was the best horse in the 2000 Guineas and he only got beat because he had to do all the donkey work in front. Nevertheless, Henrythenavigator put up an exceptional performance to win but he may not be of the right calibre to win the Derby.
These first two were well clear of the rest and the only one to follow from them is Ravens Pass who didn't stay the trip and will run better when dropped to 6/7 furlongs.
The 1000 Guineas on Sunday was a bit of a strange race and Natagora was in the best place in front where she could avoid all the trouble in behind. One who did suffer interference was Nahoodh and Richard Hughes was adamant that he would have won with a clear run. I don't. Saoirsie Abu is the one to take out of the race; the firmer the ground, the better and I can see her winning at Royal Ascot or Glorious Goodwood this year.
The Guineas may have been the big race on Saturday, but the strangest must have been the 5.45. Henry Cecil's Anjaan was extremely immature and in the final furlong he drifted across the course to smash into another runner, nearly knocking both of them over. Despite this, Anjaan managed to rally in the last strides and win the race. How connections managed to keep the race in the stewards' room, I will never know.
But the highlight of the sporting weekend was the Championship matches on Sunday. I think Stoke won't last a minute in the Premier League but they seem to be happy anyway. Southampton put up a mammouth display to win their game and stay up but Leceister weren't so lucky. They've never been relegated to the third tier of football before and the current squad is a far cry from the one of the 90s I remember of Casey Keller, Robbie Savage, Muzzy Izzet etc.
1 May 2008
Still got your health
I suppose it could have been worse. I mean, it's probably more demoralising to lose in the final to Man Utd than in the semi to Chelsea.
The Reds were simply outplayed in the opening half and Drogba's first goal was a blinder - he managed to place the ball into the smallest gap in the goal face. It was fortunate that Chelsea had missed a few chances and Liverpool went into the second half still with a chance.
Fernando Torres took his chance after 64 mnutes and put the score level. At this moment, we recollected moments like this in the past; a draw in a crucial Champions League match. They all had a common ending - Liverpool won and penalties decided it.
Indeed, penalties did decide the game, but there was only one. Hyypia clumsily brought down Ballack in the box and Lampard needed no excuse (but he gave one: his late mother) to send Reina the wrong way and put the Blues back in front.
Then the scousers crumbled.
It all happened so quickly. One minute we're drawing, the next we're 3-1 down. I don't think I even saw Drogba's second goal because tears were obscuring my vision. It just was not right - Liverpool are the ones who pull out the special performance in these kind of games but Chelsea humiliated us. There was one Blues fan in the pub who was screaming his head off when his team's third goal went in. To be honest, I just felt like ripping his head off.
Babel's goal in the dying minutes of the game was a consolation and if it had been the winner, we would all be reliving the moment in our heads and describing it as the goal of the season. But it wasn't and Liverpool lost, so it was just a another goal.
Ah well, as they say, 'It's only a game'. At least we've still got our health.
The Reds were simply outplayed in the opening half and Drogba's first goal was a blinder - he managed to place the ball into the smallest gap in the goal face. It was fortunate that Chelsea had missed a few chances and Liverpool went into the second half still with a chance.
Fernando Torres took his chance after 64 mnutes and put the score level. At this moment, we recollected moments like this in the past; a draw in a crucial Champions League match. They all had a common ending - Liverpool won and penalties decided it.
Indeed, penalties did decide the game, but there was only one. Hyypia clumsily brought down Ballack in the box and Lampard needed no excuse (but he gave one: his late mother) to send Reina the wrong way and put the Blues back in front.
Then the scousers crumbled.
It all happened so quickly. One minute we're drawing, the next we're 3-1 down. I don't think I even saw Drogba's second goal because tears were obscuring my vision. It just was not right - Liverpool are the ones who pull out the special performance in these kind of games but Chelsea humiliated us. There was one Blues fan in the pub who was screaming his head off when his team's third goal went in. To be honest, I just felt like ripping his head off.
Babel's goal in the dying minutes of the game was a consolation and if it had been the winner, we would all be reliving the moment in our heads and describing it as the goal of the season. But it wasn't and Liverpool lost, so it was just a another goal.
Ah well, as they say, 'It's only a game'. At least we've still got our health.
28 April 2008
Never Mind
It's just as well that this blog isn't set up primarily to give tips because since the Grand National winner, I havn't given any. However, my mate has got a tipping blog going (http://jimmypugh.blogspot.com/) and he tipped 6 winners last week. I'll leave it to him.
Anyway, this is a big sporting week, what with the Champions' League Semis and the Guineas at Newmarket. I shall be making a trip to HQ on Saturday to see the 2000 Guineas and it should be a great race.
On the football front, as a Reds fan, I hope Liverpool can get a few goals at Stamford Bridge and sail through to the final in Moscow. With the other semi, I hope Barcelona can win just to see the look on the Man Utd fans' faces - a lot of them have already bought Russian visas at £60 a go. The arrogance!
With the Premier League though, I think it will be a tough call. Man U probably have the easier two games with West Ham and Wigan whereas Chelsea play a resurgent Newcastle and Bolton. It will be a close encounter whatever the results.
I've heard it on the grape vine that if Leeds win their appeal to get back the 15 points they were deducted at the beginning of the season, something radical might happen to League One. The FA could allow 3 automatic promotion places into the Championship while keeping the 4 play-off places, in effect meaning that 4 teams will get promoted from League One. This would make a 25 team Championship next year. That would be some league!
Anyway, this is a big sporting week, what with the Champions' League Semis and the Guineas at Newmarket. I shall be making a trip to HQ on Saturday to see the 2000 Guineas and it should be a great race.
On the football front, as a Reds fan, I hope Liverpool can get a few goals at Stamford Bridge and sail through to the final in Moscow. With the other semi, I hope Barcelona can win just to see the look on the Man Utd fans' faces - a lot of them have already bought Russian visas at £60 a go. The arrogance!
With the Premier League though, I think it will be a tough call. Man U probably have the easier two games with West Ham and Wigan whereas Chelsea play a resurgent Newcastle and Bolton. It will be a close encounter whatever the results.
I've heard it on the grape vine that if Leeds win their appeal to get back the 15 points they were deducted at the beginning of the season, something radical might happen to League One. The FA could allow 3 automatic promotion places into the Championship while keeping the 4 play-off places, in effect meaning that 4 teams will get promoted from League One. This would make a 25 team Championship next year. That would be some league!
27 April 2008
Easy Money
Just a quick tip today; Bavarika (6.25 Southwell) on Monday should win. There may only be four runners in the race, but the filly will be a generous price (6/1). Most pundits will think that she will need the race, although work-watchers in Newmarket tell me that Bavarika is absolutely flying. She has a low weight and should not get too much kickback due to the small field.
24 April 2008
If he had meant it, it was a bloody good goal.
But unfortunately, John Arne Riise didn't want to see the ball in the back of his own net. I just could not believe what he did; it was the last play of the match, all he had to do was kick the ball into touch, it fell to his knees, why did he header it? The general feeling amongst Liverpool fans is that it was a freak accident and Riise is a popular enough player to live it down. The Reds now face a hard task in trying to win at Stamford Bridge next week to qualify for the Champion's League final, but I hope they can do it. After all, Chelsea will have to put out a strong team this weekend to play Manchester United in what is effectively the Premier League decider. Liverpool on the other hand, do not have much pressure on their weekend game, so it would be no surprise if Rafa Benitez rested the key players for the second leg whereas Chelsea's key men might be tired from playing so much intense football.
The Manchester United V Barcelona semi final was a bit of a bore. After Ronaldo missed his early penalty, you knew his team were going to struggle. Barcelon outplayed their rivals and were unlucky not to score. Edwin Van Der Sar was United's saviour. I can see the spanish side winning the second leg 1-0.
For those of you wondering why I study the mystery that is Barney Curley, I will provide you with a little snippet of the enigma:
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=3zONsajoJi0
It's definitely worth a watch.
But unfortunately, John Arne Riise didn't want to see the ball in the back of his own net. I just could not believe what he did; it was the last play of the match, all he had to do was kick the ball into touch, it fell to his knees, why did he header it? The general feeling amongst Liverpool fans is that it was a freak accident and Riise is a popular enough player to live it down. The Reds now face a hard task in trying to win at Stamford Bridge next week to qualify for the Champion's League final, but I hope they can do it. After all, Chelsea will have to put out a strong team this weekend to play Manchester United in what is effectively the Premier League decider. Liverpool on the other hand, do not have much pressure on their weekend game, so it would be no surprise if Rafa Benitez rested the key players for the second leg whereas Chelsea's key men might be tired from playing so much intense football.
The Manchester United V Barcelona semi final was a bit of a bore. After Ronaldo missed his early penalty, you knew his team were going to struggle. Barcelon outplayed their rivals and were unlucky not to score. Edwin Van Der Sar was United's saviour. I can see the spanish side winning the second leg 1-0.
For those of you wondering why I study the mystery that is Barney Curley, I will provide you with a little snippet of the enigma:
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=3zONsajoJi0
It's definitely worth a watch.
20 April 2008
The handicapper's the fool
It made the handicapping system look like a joke; Iris De Balme won the Scottish National from 26lb out of the handicap. For those of you who don't understand the handicapping of racehorses, this feat is the equivalent of Charlton Athletic giving Arsenal a three goal lead and then coming back to win the game. In theory, it should be impossible. But this is horseracing where nothing is impossible and Charlie Huxley proved it by steering his mount to a 14 length victory. Charlie has made a remarkable start to his career, he narrowly beat me to the amateur title during the summer, he is an excellent rider and the horses just seem to run for him. No doubt he will turn professional next year and become one of the top jocks around.
The first day of racing seemed to go very well at Great Leighs today and sources tell me that everyone there received free food and drink to make up for the fact that most of the infrastructure at the course is not complete yet. The track seemed to be riding fair and the bends looked long and sweeping so there should be no bias to front running horses as there is at Lingfield.
My champion I Have Dreamed runs at Plumpton tomorrow (2.20) and it is hoped that he can get back to winning ways after running poorly at Kempton last time when it was later found that he had a flu virus.
The first day of racing seemed to go very well at Great Leighs today and sources tell me that everyone there received free food and drink to make up for the fact that most of the infrastructure at the course is not complete yet. The track seemed to be riding fair and the bends looked long and sweeping so there should be no bias to front running horses as there is at Lingfield.
My champion I Have Dreamed runs at Plumpton tomorrow (2.20) and it is hoped that he can get back to winning ways after running poorly at Kempton last time when it was later found that he had a flu virus.
18 April 2008
Hello muckers,
I've been in Newmarket for the Craven meeting and also at the horse sales at Tattersalls. Unsurprisingly, I have a few points to make.
Firstly, I thought Twice Over's victory in the Craven Stakes was very impressive and he will be a tough nut to crack if he goes for the Derby in June.
Secondly, at Tattersalls I was amazed by the prices the horses were selling for. With over £11 million being traded over the two days of the sale, it is hard to believe that the country is under a 'credit crunch'. The average price for each horse at the sale was £102000 and this is incredible when you think that the horses being sold were unraced two year olds. What could the buyers be hoping for? Yes, their steed could become a champion and go on to earn millions of pounds as a stallion, but out of the 180 horses that were sold, there could probably be one (if any) of this calibre. Some of the horses will just be moderate performers who will never justify what the owners paid for them while many will not even be good enough to make the racecourse and will later be sold for £1000 as a riding horse. That only makes a loss of £101000, good work.
Anyway, Great Leighs becomes the first English racetrack in 80 years to be built and it will be interesting to see if there are any draw bias and what type of running style is most successful. But to make it a profitable opening for you, I suggest backing RAPID CITY(3.50). He looked like a machine when notching a series of wins until he was injured last spring. Reports say he was unlucky last time at Kempton and everything is in position for a big run.
I've been in Newmarket for the Craven meeting and also at the horse sales at Tattersalls. Unsurprisingly, I have a few points to make.
Firstly, I thought Twice Over's victory in the Craven Stakes was very impressive and he will be a tough nut to crack if he goes for the Derby in June.
Secondly, at Tattersalls I was amazed by the prices the horses were selling for. With over £11 million being traded over the two days of the sale, it is hard to believe that the country is under a 'credit crunch'. The average price for each horse at the sale was £102000 and this is incredible when you think that the horses being sold were unraced two year olds. What could the buyers be hoping for? Yes, their steed could become a champion and go on to earn millions of pounds as a stallion, but out of the 180 horses that were sold, there could probably be one (if any) of this calibre. Some of the horses will just be moderate performers who will never justify what the owners paid for them while many will not even be good enough to make the racecourse and will later be sold for £1000 as a riding horse. That only makes a loss of £101000, good work.
Anyway, Great Leighs becomes the first English racetrack in 80 years to be built and it will be interesting to see if there are any draw bias and what type of running style is most successful. But to make it a profitable opening for you, I suggest backing RAPID CITY(3.50). He looked like a machine when notching a series of wins until he was injured last spring. Reports say he was unlucky last time at Kempton and everything is in position for a big run.
14 April 2008
Me and Mrs Jones
If you didn't read it, go here: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=559221&in_page_id=1770
Just to get this clear, usually I am quite a placid fellow; I enjoy golf and sometimes partake in walking activities but when I read this article, man was I infuriated.
Liz Jones went to Aintree to watch the Grand National. Firstly, she must have done a quick survey, seen that most people (10 at most) around her were drinking alcohol and thus deduced that 100% of the 70,000 spectators at the racecourse were ‘barely conscious’. Having discovered this, she then heroically fights her way to the bar and asks for some water. (WATER?).
Following this, Jones adds to her secret agent credidentials by saying she was ‘closely watched throughout the day’ by Merseyside Police because she was believed to be an animal activist. She was probably watched because she looked suspicious, like some sort of bomber, with her dark clothes, lack of make up and dull expression.
Then she continues by explaining that the 25 horses who didn’t complete the National all fell, ‘turning cartwheels, crashing onto its neck’. Hang on deary, if you actually look at the results, you will find that of the 25 who didn’t complete the course, 11 fell, 8 unseated the rider and 6 were pulled up.
Then, the horse that the article hangs on, McKelvey is described. Jones says that after unseating his rider, the horse reared over and broke his back. Where did she get this information from? All sources have said that the horse ran into a post. This could have happened at any racecourse in the country.
And then Jones whips me into a frenzy by claiming that horse people do not have the animal’s best interests at heart. The horses were born to race, their lives would be meaningless if all they were allowed to do was stay in their stables.
Apparently, ‘thoroughbreds are intelligent animals’ and only follow others when riderless because they are ‘frightened’. What? If the horses were so clever, they would think ‘mmm, this racing game is rather cruel, I think I’ll go and munch on some grass’. They carry on with the others because they enjoy the thrill of the chase.
Finally, why ask of Simon Earle’s opinion? He has had 14 winners in the last five years, his horses are infamous for slipping over in races because they have no shoes on and to be honest, he is struggling for success.
Well, let us just leave Liz Jones to her vegetarian ways and come and enjoy some racing!
Just to get this clear, usually I am quite a placid fellow; I enjoy golf and sometimes partake in walking activities but when I read this article, man was I infuriated.
Liz Jones went to Aintree to watch the Grand National. Firstly, she must have done a quick survey, seen that most people (10 at most) around her were drinking alcohol and thus deduced that 100% of the 70,000 spectators at the racecourse were ‘barely conscious’. Having discovered this, she then heroically fights her way to the bar and asks for some water. (WATER?).
Following this, Jones adds to her secret agent credidentials by saying she was ‘closely watched throughout the day’ by Merseyside Police because she was believed to be an animal activist. She was probably watched because she looked suspicious, like some sort of bomber, with her dark clothes, lack of make up and dull expression.
Then she continues by explaining that the 25 horses who didn’t complete the National all fell, ‘turning cartwheels, crashing onto its neck’. Hang on deary, if you actually look at the results, you will find that of the 25 who didn’t complete the course, 11 fell, 8 unseated the rider and 6 were pulled up.
Then, the horse that the article hangs on, McKelvey is described. Jones says that after unseating his rider, the horse reared over and broke his back. Where did she get this information from? All sources have said that the horse ran into a post. This could have happened at any racecourse in the country.
And then Jones whips me into a frenzy by claiming that horse people do not have the animal’s best interests at heart. The horses were born to race, their lives would be meaningless if all they were allowed to do was stay in their stables.
Apparently, ‘thoroughbreds are intelligent animals’ and only follow others when riderless because they are ‘frightened’. What? If the horses were so clever, they would think ‘mmm, this racing game is rather cruel, I think I’ll go and munch on some grass’. They carry on with the others because they enjoy the thrill of the chase.
Finally, why ask of Simon Earle’s opinion? He has had 14 winners in the last five years, his horses are infamous for slipping over in races because they have no shoes on and to be honest, he is struggling for success.
Well, let us just leave Liz Jones to her vegetarian ways and come and enjoy some racing!
11 April 2008
Another one?
After the resounding success of last week’s tip in the Grand National, I feel obliged to make it a regular feature of this blog to give you a winner for the weekend’s big race.
And this Saturday we focus on the Doncaster Mile (3.35). It may have less than a quarter of the number of horses participating than in the National but it is still a tricky contest.
These are the ones you need to know about (current price in brackets):
Don’t Panic (7/4) - hacked up in the Spring Mile at this course last time out and goes on any ground. Should win but it will be at a short price.
Tell (7/2) - I don’t really fancy this horse; he has been found out in this class before and I think the others will be simply too good for him.
Medicine Path (4/1) - trainer thinks he will need the race to get fully fit and I can see him struggling.
Blythe Knight (6/1) - a grand old horse and ran a cracker last time in the Lincoln but he has to give weight away to all his rivals and he surely cannot improve at the age of eight.
Re Barolo (18/1) - In a competitive race, I think it will be best to back this one each-way. He needed his first few runs to get fit but then won a good race at Wolverhampton. He handles the turf and should run into a place at a big price.
Spirkett’s prediction: 1st - Don’t Panic
2nd - Re Barolo
3rd - Blythe Knight
And this Saturday we focus on the Doncaster Mile (3.35). It may have less than a quarter of the number of horses participating than in the National but it is still a tricky contest.
These are the ones you need to know about (current price in brackets):
Don’t Panic (7/4) - hacked up in the Spring Mile at this course last time out and goes on any ground. Should win but it will be at a short price.
Tell (7/2) - I don’t really fancy this horse; he has been found out in this class before and I think the others will be simply too good for him.
Medicine Path (4/1) - trainer thinks he will need the race to get fully fit and I can see him struggling.
Blythe Knight (6/1) - a grand old horse and ran a cracker last time in the Lincoln but he has to give weight away to all his rivals and he surely cannot improve at the age of eight.
Re Barolo (18/1) - In a competitive race, I think it will be best to back this one each-way. He needed his first few runs to get fit but then won a good race at Wolverhampton. He handles the turf and should run into a place at a big price.
Spirkett’s prediction: 1st - Don’t Panic
2nd - Re Barolo
3rd - Blythe Knight
9 April 2008
As an unbiased journalist, it was a spectacle to savour.
As a Liverpool fan, it was the stuff of dreams.
Yes, I'm talking about the game last night in which Liverpool beat Arsenal 4-2 to get through to the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Arsene Wenger may have bemoaned the 'dodgy decisions' but at the end of the day, Liverpool beat Wenger's side by two goals. It was not an easy game for the Reds. Arsenal played magnificent football which climaxed in Theo Walcott's amazing run over almost the whole length of the pitch to set Adebayor up for the Gunner's equaliser. Had that goal been the last of the game, Walcott would surely now be talked about as England's most promising player.
Unfortunately for Walcott and his team-mates, it was not the last goal. The penalty which Babel created for Liverpool was debatable and in contrast to the decision that occured when the teams met at the weekend, the decision looks inconsistent. The goal which put the result to bed five minutes later was definite. Arsenal were caught sulking at having conceded a goal and as a result they let standards drop.
Steven Gerrard said it was his worst performance in a Liverpool shirt but with a result like that, nobody took him seriously.
So, we'll leave Wenger to his complaints and just realise the fact that Liverpool are a different class in Europe.
As a Liverpool fan, it was the stuff of dreams.
Yes, I'm talking about the game last night in which Liverpool beat Arsenal 4-2 to get through to the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Arsene Wenger may have bemoaned the 'dodgy decisions' but at the end of the day, Liverpool beat Wenger's side by two goals. It was not an easy game for the Reds. Arsenal played magnificent football which climaxed in Theo Walcott's amazing run over almost the whole length of the pitch to set Adebayor up for the Gunner's equaliser. Had that goal been the last of the game, Walcott would surely now be talked about as England's most promising player.
Unfortunately for Walcott and his team-mates, it was not the last goal. The penalty which Babel created for Liverpool was debatable and in contrast to the decision that occured when the teams met at the weekend, the decision looks inconsistent. The goal which put the result to bed five minutes later was definite. Arsenal were caught sulking at having conceded a goal and as a result they let standards drop.
Steven Gerrard said it was his worst performance in a Liverpool shirt but with a result like that, nobody took him seriously.
So, we'll leave Wenger to his complaints and just realise the fact that Liverpool are a different class in Europe.
7 April 2008
Come on baby light my fire.
The Olympic Torch relay took place through London yesterday and what a calamity it was. (See a video at http://www.guardian.co.uk/ uk/video/2008/apr/07/torch.protests.london)
The torch was lit at Wembley stadium in front of about ten people but as it left the arena, some mad campaigners tried to jump through the closed doors of the bus which the torch was to enter. What nutters! Whenever I get a bus, I wait at a bus stop and stick my arm out at the bus which then stops and the doors open so I can board. Maybe they should try this technique next time.
And then, as the torch is being held by a runner who is surrounded by security, a man who is just merely waving a flag of his favourite football team (Arsenal?) to the camera, is savagely dump tackled to the ground by a police officer who must have been a Tottenham fan.
The moment when a protester sprayed a fire extinquisher at the torch made me laugh. The policemen went mad as they probably thought it was some gaseous form of anthrax whereas in reality, the protester was just sticking to the strict health and safety restrictions of London which state that no fires should be lit in the street.
I'm not politically biased or anything but just for a laugh, if I had been selected to carry the torch, I would have lobbed the torch off Tower Bridge and seen how everyone would react. It's a shame Trevor Macdonald never thought of doing it.
And why in Grenwhich did the Chairman of the Beijing Olympic Comittee give his speech in Chinease? Last time I watched, the characters of Eastenders all spoke English. I suppose no one wanted to stop the bloke as he looked pretty happy with himself.
The torch was lit at Wembley stadium in front of about ten people but as it left the arena, some mad campaigners tried to jump through the closed doors of the bus which the torch was to enter. What nutters! Whenever I get a bus, I wait at a bus stop and stick my arm out at the bus which then stops and the doors open so I can board. Maybe they should try this technique next time.
And then, as the torch is being held by a runner who is surrounded by security, a man who is just merely waving a flag of his favourite football team (Arsenal?) to the camera, is savagely dump tackled to the ground by a police officer who must have been a Tottenham fan.
The moment when a protester sprayed a fire extinquisher at the torch made me laugh. The policemen went mad as they probably thought it was some gaseous form of anthrax whereas in reality, the protester was just sticking to the strict health and safety restrictions of London which state that no fires should be lit in the street.
I'm not politically biased or anything but just for a laugh, if I had been selected to carry the torch, I would have lobbed the torch off Tower Bridge and seen how everyone would react. It's a shame Trevor Macdonald never thought of doing it.
And why in Grenwhich did the Chairman of the Beijing Olympic Comittee give his speech in Chinease? Last time I watched, the characters of Eastenders all spoke English. I suppose no one wanted to stop the bloke as he looked pretty happy with himself.
6 April 2008
Your Starter at Tens...
Well, the blog is only 4 days old but has already tipped the winner of the Grand National! Comply or Die did the business for us at 7/1 but I hope you were on at my advised 10/1.
Turning into the straight, you just knew Timmy Murphy had the race in the bag as his mount had proven stamina and he galloped all the way to the line.
I thought I might have pulled off the 1-2 but Bewleys Berry just lacked that extra bit of speed in the end but still finished a creditable fifth.
The National is always a great race to watch even if you have no financial interest involved. Here are some of my highlights: (view the race again at http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/horse_racing/7332863.stm)
Tumbling Dice firing his jockey into the turf at the 3rd fence,
J Barry's craziness in going right up the inner (where the jump is bigger) at Becher's Brook and inevitably falling,
The first words Tony McCoy said after falling at Becher's Brook (they obviously cannot be published on a website for all ages such as this).
So, does this signal the future of this blog? Will you followers prosper by taking my advice? Only time will tell, and that, my dear, is all your getting today.
Turning into the straight, you just knew Timmy Murphy had the race in the bag as his mount had proven stamina and he galloped all the way to the line.
I thought I might have pulled off the 1-2 but Bewleys Berry just lacked that extra bit of speed in the end but still finished a creditable fifth.
The National is always a great race to watch even if you have no financial interest involved. Here are some of my highlights: (view the race again at http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/horse_racing/7332863.stm)
Tumbling Dice firing his jockey into the turf at the 3rd fence,
J Barry's craziness in going right up the inner (where the jump is bigger) at Becher's Brook and inevitably falling,
The first words Tony McCoy said after falling at Becher's Brook (they obviously cannot be published on a website for all ages such as this).
So, does this signal the future of this blog? Will you followers prosper by taking my advice? Only time will tell, and that, my dear, is all your getting today.
4 April 2008
The Start of a Revolution?
Well, thanks for visiting.
I set this blog up just to unite the people who have an interest in a wide range of sports and especially horseracing.
Feel free to disagree and remember (as the Guardian say) 'Comment is free'.
I set this blog up just to unite the people who have an interest in a wide range of sports and especially horseracing.
Feel free to disagree and remember (as the Guardian say) 'Comment is free'.
3 April 2008
A Wild Stab in the Dark?
You could pick a nice name or even try and consume the vast amount of tips the Racing Post gives you. But in all honesty, there is only one guide to the 2008 Grand National - AND IT'S HERE!
These are the horses that you need to know about for the big race (current price in brackets):
Cloudy Lane: Comes into the reace in terrific form and has been thrown in at the weights but he needs the ground to be softer than it currently is. Plus, do you really want to be backing a horse at this short a price in a race as unpredictable as the National? (11/2)
Comply or Die: This is my selection for the race. He won well last time and has proven stamina as well as being better in the weights than when being beaten by Cloudy Lane at Haydock. The only concern is that he can run the odd stinker. (10/1)
Slim Pickings: I can't believe people fancy this horse; he has no real form and has too much weight on his back. I think people just consider Tom Taaffe to be a shrewd trainer and that this horse has been lined up to win. HE WON'T. (10/1)
Simon: It would be a fairytale result if this horse won for owner Mercy Rimmell but I just think the horse is too small to be winning with over 11 stone on its back around Aintree. (12/1)
Bewleys Berry: Ran a poor race last time but has form arouns the big fences and hails from the shrewd Howard Johnson yard. Each-way possibility. (14/1)
...And finally,
Joes Edge: This is the big each-way bet. He has not ran well since his Cheltenham triumph lasy year but he usually comes good this time of year, jumps really well and the big fences should perk him up. (40/1)
Spirkett's prediction:
1st - Comply Or Die
2nd - Bewleys Berry
3rd - Joes Edge
Hope this advic s fortuous for you and feel free to disagree.
These are the horses that you need to know about for the big race (current price in brackets):
Cloudy Lane: Comes into the reace in terrific form and has been thrown in at the weights but he needs the ground to be softer than it currently is. Plus, do you really want to be backing a horse at this short a price in a race as unpredictable as the National? (11/2)
Comply or Die: This is my selection for the race. He won well last time and has proven stamina as well as being better in the weights than when being beaten by Cloudy Lane at Haydock. The only concern is that he can run the odd stinker. (10/1)
Slim Pickings: I can't believe people fancy this horse; he has no real form and has too much weight on his back. I think people just consider Tom Taaffe to be a shrewd trainer and that this horse has been lined up to win. HE WON'T. (10/1)
Simon: It would be a fairytale result if this horse won for owner Mercy Rimmell but I just think the horse is too small to be winning with over 11 stone on its back around Aintree. (12/1)
Bewleys Berry: Ran a poor race last time but has form arouns the big fences and hails from the shrewd Howard Johnson yard. Each-way possibility. (14/1)
...And finally,
Joes Edge: This is the big each-way bet. He has not ran well since his Cheltenham triumph lasy year but he usually comes good this time of year, jumps really well and the big fences should perk him up. (40/1)
Spirkett's prediction:
1st - Comply Or Die
2nd - Bewleys Berry
3rd - Joes Edge
Hope this advic s fortuous for you and feel free to disagree.
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