Monday 3 August Previews : Nottingham 2.00 and 2.30

 Nottingham 2.00 – 6F Median Auction Maiden Stakes (Class 5)

ANDAR finished as runner up at Chepstow in a Class 6 median auction maiden race.  He led two furlongs out but was caught close home, beaten a short head and trading at 1.08 in running.  The winner was given an OR of 76 but could only finish ninth in a nursery at Goodwood on his next start.

THAT’LL HAPPEN has finished third on both of his starts to date and on the most recent was favourite and finished about three lengths behind LATHOM at Beverley.  The winner was making his debut but went on to win the Super Sprint (Class 2) at Newbury and has since earned an OR of 99.  However, that was back in May and THAT’LL HAPPEN has been off the track since then, having been gelded.

CELESTIAL LAD was only ninth at Newmarket in a Class 4 median auction maiden race on soft ground.  Sent off at 6/1 (third favourite), he was in touch until over a furlong out. Improvement can be expected from this 90000 euros purchase, the first foal of an unraced mare (Half sister to Listed race winners at 8F).

HYMN FOR THE DUDES finished just in front of CELESTIAL LAD at Newmarket but he had already had the benefit of a previous outing, in which he finished last of ten.

MURDANOVA finished third at York in a Class 3 maiden beaten over seven lengths. However, the winner of that race was given an OR of 95 and subsequently beaten a head in a Group 2 race in France.

PARKOUR is a 55000 guineas purchase but Jeremy Noseda has yet to have a 2yo winner this season and only one first time out 2yo winner last season.

Mark Johnston introduces a newcomer, IN KEN’S MEMORY.  She is owner bred and a half sister to a 6F Listed race winner in Germany (also a winner on debut).

BROUGHTONS MYSTERY was eleventh at Windsor and ZEEBEE was thirteenth at Ripon on their respective debuts.

Summary

ANDHAR looks to be short enough at 11/8 and it may be best to side with MURDANOVA (16/1) as an each way selection.

Nottingham 2.30 – 8F Nursery (Class 5)

ALABAALY makes his nursery debut off of top weight and is blinkered for the first time. Although finishing at least ten lengths behind the winner of each of his races, those winners have been KING OF ROOKS (Listed winner and third in a Group 3 race), BEAVERBROOK (Group 2 fourth) and PALAWAN (Group 2 third).  His full sister was paced at 8F in a group 3 race in Ireland.

GOODKNIGHT PERCY has been gelded since his last run.  On his penultimate start, he was beaten just over four lengths by a horse given an OR of 95.  Kevin Ryan has opted to take 7lb off of his back by using apprentice Patrick O’Donnell who has a record on turf this season of 11/43, LSP 33.25 (before he rode another winner at Chepstow today).

STARS N ANGELS ran to free on her nursery debut at Leicester when finishing last of six and has been dropped 3lb after that run.

MOONLIGHT GIRL finished seventh at Wetherby, beaten seven lengths on her most recent start.  She has been raised 4lb for that run (the winner was given an OR of 80).

QUEENSBURY ODYSSEY was beaten ten lengths last time out by a horse given an OR of 81.

BATHOS finished ¾ length behind THAT’LL HAPPEN at Beverley (see 2.00) and has since finished last of six in a 7F nursery at Chester, where he missed the break.

PIVOTAL DREAM finished fifth at Chester beaten over five lengths, the winner has since been given an OR of 76.  Back in May, Mark Brisbourne suggested that she should be up to winning a 7F nursery.

HARLEQUIN ROCK is another who has been gelded since his last run.  On his penultimate run, he finished sixth, about seven lengths behind a horse who has been given an OR of 80.

CLIDOHNA has been beaten in sellers in her last three starts.

Summary

Several of these have been given fair handicap marks and it may pay to keep an eye on three of these in particular.  Both ALABAALY (4/1) and GOODKNIGHT PERCY (4/1) fall into this category but have to prove that blinkers/gelding have a positive effect.  PIVOTAL DREAM (16/1) could also be on a handy mark but has been off for over a month.

Race Notes: Sunday 2 August Chepstow 2.00; Chester 2.10, 2.40 and 4.25

Chepstow 2.00 – 8F Maiden Auction Stakes (Class 6) Good

Eleven runners have been declared for this maiden auction stakes.  The field includes two fillies and two newcomers.  None of the runners have earned an official rating yet.

ALDAIR (Richard Hannon) – Made his debut in a 6F Class 4 maiden at Newmarket where he was supported in from 16/1 to 12/1.  Slowly away, he was never on terms.  A full brother won a 7F claimer in France.  Cam Hardie takes the ride (Pat Dobbs has gone to Chester).

CAY LOCATION (Ed de Giles) – Last of eleven at Lingfield (AW) over 7F on debut.  Slowly away and received reminders early on but appeared to make no difference.  First foal from a mare who remained a maiden after five starts (bred by The Queen and a half sister to a Listed race winner at 7F and 14F).

FLEETING VISIT (Eve Johnson Houghton) – Made his debut at Sandown in a 7F Class 5 maiden and was sent off at 15/2, having been available at double figure prices earlier in the day. Slowly away but was soon in mid division and stayed on well to finish third.  The fifth horse has since been placed in two maidens (beaten a neck conceding 8lb to a horse with an OR of 78). Should appreciate the extra distance (his dam won a Listed race in Italy at 8F).  A negative could be that Eve Johnson Houghton did not have a winner in July from 31 runners.

KNIGHT COMMANDER (William Knight) – Two runs to date, a promising third at Salisbury when finishing 2½ lengths behind the winner who then won a nursery off an OR of 74 and then finished runner up in another nursery off an OR of 80).  However, he disappointed next time out at Ascot when prominent and then weakening a long way from home.  He is a half brother to a winning hurdler.

MASTERSON (Mick Channon) – One run to date over 7F at Salisbury finishing tenth, in touch until halfway, (the winner has since finished third in a Group 2 race).  He is the first foal from a mare who won in Italy up to 7½F.

MIKMAK (William Muir) – Newcomer, both his dam and a half brother were winners up to 8F (highest winning OR of 75).

MONTAGUE WAY (Andrew Balding) – Last of eleven in the Sandown race in which FLEETING VISIT finished third.  A full brother has won twice at 10F (highest winning OR of 72).

OCHOS RIOS (David Evans) – Well beaten on both starts to date but finished just in front of MASTERSON on his most recent start.  Siblings have won up to 9F (highest winning OR of 64).

WYNFORD (Andrew Balding) – Newcomer who has already been gelded.  Siblings have won up to 8F, one on debut, (highest winning OR of 86).  Andrew Balding had a debutante 2yo winner earlier in the week.

LINCOLN ROCKS (Alan McCabe) – Never dangerous when tenth at Wetherby on debut.  She is the first foal from a mare who won a 6F maiden in Ireland.

MIRSAALAH (James Tate) – Finished fifth, beaten about five lengths in a Class 5 maiden at Newmarket.  A full brother has won over 12F (OR of 57).

Chester 2.10 – 7F Maiden Stakes (Class 4) Good

Six runners have been declared for this maiden.  The field includes five colts and one filly; one of the colts is making his debut.  None of the runners have earned an official rating yet.

ARCANADA (Tom Dascombe) – Stayed on late to take third place at Doncaster over 6F on debut.  Three of Tom Dascombe’s four 2yo winners this season have come in the last week.

BOTH SIDES (Andrew Balding) – Fifth at Sandown on debut, beaten about five lengths.  The winner of that race has been given an OR of 87; the sixth horse won a Class 4 maiden on his next start.  Owner bred, he is from a mare who won a 6F maiden and was placed  at Group level, including a Group 1 over 7F.  She has produced winning foals between 7F and 10F, including a Group 3 race at 8F.

DARK DEVIL (Richard Fahey) – Newcomer who cost 70000 guineas at a Breeze Up sale.  He is the first foal from a mare who won in Sweden.  Richard  Fahey has introduced over 30 newcomers since he was successful with a 2yo making their debut.

DOLLAR REWARD (Sir Michael Stoute) – Sixth at Newmarket on debut when it was reported he ran green.  He is the first foal from a mare who won at 7F, including a Listed race.

POWDERHORN (Mark Johnston) – Two starts to date, most recently at Doncaster over 7F. He was a drifter in the market from 12/1 to 20/1 but led from the start and, although passed over a furlong out, held on to finish in third place.

SPIRIT OF THE VALE (Tom Dascombe) – The second string for Tom Dascombe, based on jockey bookings.  Unplaced on both starts to date.  On the most recent of these, she finished about five lengths in front of LINCOLN ROCKS (see Chepstow 2.00).  She cost 25000 guineas as a yearling and is from an unraced Darley mare whose only other foal remains a maiden after five starts.

Chester 2.40 – 6F Condition Stakes (Class 2) Good

Five runners have been declared for this conditions race, consisting of four colts and one gelding.  Four of the runners are previous winners and four have been given official ratings, the highest rated being MADRINHO (OR 97).

MADRINHO OR 97 (Richard Hannon) – Holds a Group 1 entry in the future.  Won his maiden at Ascot on his second start before finishing runner up, beaten a neck, in a 6F Listed race at Newbury. The winner of that race had been given an OR of 85 going into that race and was raised to 98 after that victory.  He will be set for another rise after finishing second in a Group 2 race at Goodwood.

MR LUPTON OR 90 (Richard Fahey) – Second in the Super Sprint (Class 2) at Newbury on his most recent appearance and raised to OR 90 from 81 as a result of that run.  Returns to 6F today but has been beaten twice over this distance previously.

ROGUES’ GALLERY OR 95 (Mark Johnston) – Fifth in the 5F Norfolk Stakes (Group 2) before finishing a slightly unfortunate runner up here, the winner franked that form by winning a Group 2 race in France on his next start.  However, he was stepped up to 6F on his most recent start in a Group 3 race in Ireland but could only finish in fourth place.  Holds a Group 2 entry in the future.

KING ROBERT (Bryan Smart) –  Won a Class 5 maiden at Carlisle on debut but has been off the track since that victory at the beginning of June.  There have been three subsequent winners from that race but none have been given an OR of higher than 78.

KODIMOOR OR 72 (Danielle McCormick) – The only maiden in the field and plenty to find on official ratings.  All four starts to date have been at 5F but siblings have won at 6F and 7F (highest winning OR of 85).  He cost 55000 guineas at a Breeze Up sale and is from an unraced mare.

Chester 4.25 – 6F Nursery (Class 4) Good

Ten runners have been declared for this nursery handicap.  Six of the runners are previous winners and POWERALLIED (OR 78) is set to carry top weight (ignoring his apprentice allowance).   FOUR’S COMPANY is set to carry a 6lb penalty for a win at Wolverhampton on Tuesday in a 7F maiden.  She is one of two representatives of Tom Dascombe, who has won this race for the last three years.  David Evans is responsible for three of the runners.

POWERALLIED OR 78 (Richard Fahey) – A winner back in April at Musselburgh and was then not seen out until the Super Sprint (Class 2) at Newbury where he finished eighteenth.  A non runner at Goodwood on Friday becaues of the going (Good to Firm).  Stepped up to 6F for the first time.  His dam was a winner at 7F.

MR CHUCKLES OR 77 (Philip Kirby) – A 25/1 winner of a 5F maiden at Hamilton before being beaten in a 6F nursery off of 76.

ROARING FORTIES OR 76 (Charlie Appleby) – Remains a maiden after four starts and has apparently been gelded since his last run.  Drops back to 6F having finished third in a 7F nursery at Leicester on his last start.

TOTAL POWER OR 72 (Brian Ellison) – A winner of a 5F claimer at Catterick on his penultimate start but was then beaten on his first run for his new trainer in a Class 3 nursery over 5F at York.  He has been dropped 3lb since that run but has already been well beaten on his only previous start at 6F.

FOUR’S COMPANY OR 64+6 (Tom Dascombe) – Before her Wolverhampton win, she had been beaten in a 6F nursery at Doncaster.

DAVID’S BEAUTY OR 69 (David Evans) – A winner of a 6F claimer at Lingfield (AW) when making all.  Likely to be prominent again today and is drawn in stall 3 and has Franny Norton on board.

BAHAMIAN SUNSHINE OR 68 (Richard Fahey) – Staying on when third at Beverley over 5F on his most recent start, having dropped in class after only beating one rival in two starts in Class 3 maidens.  Less exposed than most and probably the most likely improver for his handicap debut.

ROMAN TIMES OR 67 (Tom Dascombe) – The second string for Tom Dascombe, based on jockey bookings.  Returns to 6F having finished fourth in a 5F nursery a week ago at Carlisle off the same mark as today.

KUMANAVSUMFUN OR 65 (David Evans) – Previously a winner of a seller at 6F but has since been beaten twice about three lengths on both outings in nurseries.

ADDICTED TO LUCK OR 64 (David Evans) – Had been off for two months before making her nursery debut over 5F at Southwell.  She was backed from 20/1 to 17/2 on that occasion.  She had previously finished fourth in a Class 3 maiden here and was about four lengths behind ROGUE’S GALLERY (OR 95 – see 2.40).

Wednesday 29 July Summaries: Redcar, Goodwood, Leicester and Sandown

Redcar 1.50 – 6F Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Soft

Ten runners, including three fillies and three newcomers.  None of the runners had earned an official rating.  KINGTHISTLE had been gelded since his debut in a Class 2 race at Beverley.

Favourite: KINGTHISTLE 11/4, from 15/2 in the morning.

Market Movers: RANTAN 5/1, from 12/1 in the morning, DANCE ALONE 14/1 from 20/1

1st – RANTAN (David Barron) Ridden to lead two furlongs out and went clear inside the last furlong.  Previously fifth at Thirsk over 5F, beaten about ten lengths on debut.  He cost £65000 as a yearling and is the first foal from an unraced Darley mare.

2nd – HOPE COVE (Ed Walker) Previously raced twice, most recently third at Doncaster.

3rd – DANCE ALONE (Kevin Ryan) Already gelded newcomer.  Owner bred, he is the first foal from a mare who won at 6F (highest winning OR of 75).

Distances: 2¾ lengths, ¾ length

It was reported that OUTRANK bolted before the start.

The Stewards considered the running of KINGTHISTLE, ridden by Paul Mulrennan and trained by Michael Easterby, beaten favourite which finished eighth.  They noted the trainer’s representative could offer no explanation for the gelding’s performance.  The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of KINGTHISTLE during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Silvestre De Sousa, the rider of OUTRANK, unplaced, reported that the colt slipped on leaving the stalls.

Redcar 2.20 – 6F Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Soft

Nine runners, including three fillies and five newcomers.  None of the runners had earned an official rating.

Non Runner: SUNNYSIDE BOY

Favourite: HALEY BOP 2/1, opened at 13/8.

Market Movers: MISTER MISCHIEF 17/2, from 20/1

1st – HALEY BOP (Mark Johnston) Led two furlongs out and kept on.  Previously, third at Haydock on debut before finishing ninth when stepping up to 7F in a maiden at Newmarket.

2nd – EXTORTION (Bryan Smart) Hung left in the final furlong.  Debutante who is owner bred.   Her dam remained a maiden after nine starts (half sister to Listed race winners between 6F and 12F).

3rd – MISTER MISCHIEF (Paul Midgley) Newcomer who was purchased for 16000 guineas as a foal but only made 11000 euros when resold as a yearling.  His dam remained a maiden after fourteen races and she has produce a winning foal in Greece.

Distances: 2¼ lengths, neck

Goodwood 3.45 – 5F Molecomb Stakes (Group 3) Good

Ten runners and and the field included eight previous winners.  Eight of the runners had earned official ratings, the highest being KING OF ROOKS (OR 110).

Non Runners: WASHINGTON DC (other)

Favourite: KING OF ROOKS Evens (from 6/5)

1st – KACHY (Tom Dascombe) Led inside the final furlong on the stands rail.  A winner at Chester on debut, finishing just over two lengths in front of MUHADATHAT.  Today he finished about three lengths in front of MUHADATHAT (fourth) despite being 5lb worse off.

2nd – KING OF ROOKS OR 110 (Richard Hannon) Third in the Norfolk Stakes (Group 2) on his most recent appearance.

3rd – ROULEAU OR 95 (Charlie Appleby) Led until headed inside the final furlong.  Dropped to 5F for the first time.  Last time out, he won a nursery at Ascot

Distances: ¾ lengths, 2 lengths.

The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference approaching the furlong marker. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that ROULEAU, placed third, ridden by William Buick, had shifted right handed into the whip sending MUHADATHAT, placed fourth, on to LATHOM, placed fifth, causing the colt to have to ease off the heels of KING OF ROOKS, placed second, ridden by Frankie Dettori.  They found the interference was accidental in that Buick had put both hands back on the reins to straighten ROULEAU.  They were further satisfied that Dettori had straightened KING OF ROOKS, which had initially drifted left handed before the interference occurred.

https://twitter.com/Channel4Racing/status/626404910746202113

Richard Kingscote on KACHY: ‘We’ve always liked him as we said before the race.  I got there too soon really but you get a lot of hard luck stories on the straight course at Goodwood so I was keen to take the gap when it came.  He kept finding when Frankie [Dettori on King Of Rooks] came to him.’

Tom Dascombe: ‘We knew Kachy was good.  I thought he would win and I told anyone who would listen that he would.  The race didn’t unfold as we had planned because when he jumped out of the stalls he gave them a chance.  But Richard gave him a lovely ride and he´s got there. He’s a very exciting horse.  We’ll see how he comes out of this before deciding what next.’

Charlie Appleby: ‘I was very pleased with Rouleau’s performance.  We knew that dropping to five furlongs was slightly out of his comfort zone but William was very complimentary about him.  He said to put Rouleau on a flat track with quick ground over six furlongs and he will be competitive at a higher level.  We will take the positives out of this run and go for something like the Gimcrack.’ William Buick: ‘He has run very well – he is really a six-furlong horse but he showed up over a furlong shorter and finished behind two smart types.  He will be more comfortable going back to six furlongs.’

Goodwood 4.20 – 6F Maiden Fillies Stakes (Class 2) Good

Twelve runners including five debutantes.  Only LADY NAYEF had earned an official rating (OR 65).  LOVE ON THE ROCKS was hooded for the first time.

Non Runners: DAWEYRA (Lame)

Favourite: PROMISING RUN 9/4 (from 3/1).

1st – ALAMODE (Marcus Tregoning) Got up to win close home.  Fourth on debut at Newbury; the ninth won a Class 5 maiden next time out.  Owner bred, she is from a mare who remained a maiden after four starts (half sister to a 10F Listed race winner).

2nd – WINTER ROSE (Richard Hannon) Third at Newmarket on debut; the ninth horse won a Class 4 maiden next time out.

3rd – PROMISING RUN (Charlie Appleby) Godolphin debutante.  Darley bred, she is from a mare who won Grade 1 races in Brazil between 7F and 10F.  She has produced a full sister who won a 7F maiden; other siblings have won between 8F and 12F, and hurdles (highest winning OR of 86).

Distances: Head, 3 lengths

Marcus Tregoning: ‘Alamode was a little bit green and was actually hanging away from the noise, and Martin [Dwyer] thought she would have won easier otherwise.  We were very pleased with her work and thought she would run well.  Sir Percy is flying as a stallion and we are very pleased.  There are places like the Rockfel Stakes she could go next.’

Leicester 6.15 – 6F Median Auction Maiden Fillies Stakes (Class 5) Good to Soft

Fourteen runners, including seven debutantes.  AL DALLAH (OR 78) and MRS BOJANGLES (OR 68) were the only two runners to have earned an official rating.

Non Runners: BEST NEW SHOW (going), LADY TURPIN (withdrawn).

Favourite: STYLISH MINERVA 11/4 (opened at 7/2).

Market Movers: CONTINENTAL LADY 10/3 (from 4/1), AMBER MYSTIQUE 11/1  (from 14/1), MYSTERIOUS LOOK 28/1 (from 40/1), SIXTIES PILGRIM 28/1 (from 50/1), AL DALLAH 7/2 (from 5/2).

1st – CONTINENTAL LADY (David Brown) Led over a furlong out.  Debutante, her dam won between 8F and 10F (highest winning OR 84).  She has produced one previous winning foal at 6F (OR of 58).

2nd – AMBER MYSTIQUE (Richard Fahey) Another debutante.  Her dam won between 5F and 8F (highest winning OR of 87).  She has produced winning foals between 7F and 11F (highest winning OR of 76).

3rd – AL DALLAH OR 78 (Jassim Al Ghazi) First run for new trainer, having previoosly been with Charlie Fellowes).  Placed on her last two stars, most recently at Brighton; the third and seventh (last) have both won since.

Distances: 2 lengths, 1¼ lengths

SIXTIES PILGRIM finished in seventh place.

The Stewards noted that MYSTERIOUS LOOK, ninth, edged very slightly to the right approaching the two furlong marker resulting in TOTZO, unplaced, having to ease for a couple of strides, but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence.

The representative of Richard Hannon, the trainer of STYLISH MINERVA, reported that the filly was unsuited by the Good to Soft ground.

The Stewards held an enquiry under Rule (B)11.6 into the start and the possible withdrawal of THIEF OF HEARTS, ridden by Ryan While.  They interviewed the rider and the Starter. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the start the Stewards found that the filly froze in the stalls as the gates opened.  They therefore deemed THIEF OF HEARTS to have started.

The Stewards held an enquiry to consider why Graham Gibbons, who was declared to ride CONTINENTAL LADY, had failed to arrive in time to weigh out. Having heard his evidence they found him in breach of Rule (D)41.1 and fined him £140.  Permission was given for Oisin Murphy to be substituted.

The Stewards withdrew LADY TURPIN, ridden by Samantha Bell, and trained by Richard Fahey, after she had bolted and unseated her rider on the way to post.

Leicester 7.50 – 6F Maiden Stakes (Class 4) Good to Soft

Nine runners, including one filly and three newcomers.  Only JUSTICE ROCK (OR 67) had earned an official rating.

Favourite: ZAPPED 3/1

Market Movers: JUSTICE ROCK 13/2 (from 8/1).

JUSTICE ROCK led until headed over a furlong out and GALESBURG and MUSICAL TASTE went on to fight out the finish, in which Mark Johnston’s colt got the upper hand close home.

1st – GALESBURG (Mark Johnston) Third on debut before finishing ninth at Ayr.  Darley bred, he is from a mare who won Listed races at 8F in France.  She has previously produced winning foals of maidens at 6F and 12F.

2nd – MUSICAL TASTE (Philip McBride) Third at Chelmsford on debut, four lengths behind the winner who has since been given an OR of 85.  Finished seventh at Newmarket on her most recent appearance.

3rd – JUSTICE ROCK (David Elsworth) Third at Windsor on his most recent appearance.

Distances: Neck, 3¾ lengths.

ZAPPED finished in fourth place.

Sandown 7.00 – 7F Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Good

Thirteen runners including eleven colts and two geldings and seven of the runners were newcomers.  None of the runners had earned an official rating.  Richard Hannon supplied three of the runners

Favourite: CARTAGO 15/8 (from 5/2)

Market Movers: MORE TO COME 2/1 (from 9/2 in the morning), PARIS PROTOCOL 8/1 (from 11/1).

1st – CHIEF WHIP (Richard Hannon) Newcomer, always travelled well but was waiting for a gap.  When it appeared, he quickened and took the lead inside the final furlong.  He cost 250000 dollars as a foal from an unraced mare (half sister to a Group 3 winner in Ireland over 10F).  She has produced winning foals between 6F and 10F (including a Group 1 winner at 8F and other multiple Group winners).

2nd – CARTAGO (Richard Hannon) Led from early and looked a likely winner until passed inside the last (traded at 1.20 in running).  Third on both starts to date, most recently over course and distance when beaten just over three lengths; the winner has been given an OR of 84.

3rd – PARIS PROTOCOL (Richard Hannon) Another newcomer, he made late progress to take third place close home.  He cost 55000 guineas as a yearling and is the first foal to race from a mare who won a 10F maiden.

Distances: ¾ length, 1½ lengths.

The Stewards noted that on the run to the line James Doyle, the rider of MORE TO COME, unplaced, had to momentarily stop riding and take off the heels of the weakening DU MOTO, unplaced, but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence.

John Fahy, the rider of SENZA UNA DONNA, unplaced, reported that the colt was denied a clear run in the final furlong.

John Egan, the rider of GANDVIK (IRE), unplaced, reported that the gelding ran too freely.

Sean Levey: ‘Chief Whip is a nice type.  We went slow and I was always where I wanted to be, not too far from the favourite.  He was straightforward and picked up well, although he was just a little bit green in front.’

News Update

Connections quotes ahead of tomorrow’s 6F Richmond Stakes (Goodwood 2.45):

SHALAA, winner of the Group 2 July Stakes, Harry Herbert, racing manager for owners Al Shaqab Racing: ‘Despite looking incredibly green, and that he’d never been on a racecourse before, he has managed to win his last two races, including the July Stakes. The hope is with each run he sharpens up mentally each time.  He was very impressive at Newmarket and hopefully he can overcome the penalty.  He seems in great form now.  I personally view him as the type for the Middle Park towards the end of the season as John [Gosden] has always spoken of how much natural speed he possesses.  The Prix Morny could be an option, but we’ve also got Gutaifan for that so it would come down to ground and various factors.’

Saeed bin Suroor: ‘STEADY PACE ran well to finish second at Newmarket [July Stakes] last time and came out of that race in good form.  His latest piece of work went very well and this trip suits him. He is ready to go.’

Richard Hannon: ‘LOG OUT ISLAND did not reproduce his excellent run from Royal Ascot when we took him to Ireland for the Railway Stakes, but the race probably came a bit quick and he is definitely better than that.  On his Norfolk form, he would have a strong chance here, although it looks a hot race with the July Stakes winner and the Coventry runner-up in there.’

News Update: Tuesday 28 July

Wednesday Goodwood 3.45 – 5F Molecomb Stakes (Group 3)

Connections quotes:

Richard Hannon: ‘This fast five furlongs looks tailor-made for KING OF ROOKS, who has lightning speed as you saw in the Norfolk at Royal Ascot.  He paid the penalty that day for getting in a duel with Log Out Island, but we have freshened him up and remember he had previously beaten Buratino five lengths in the National Stakes at Sandown, and that one went on to win both the Woodcote at Epsom and the Coventry at Royal Ascot, so King of Rooks has outstanding form claims.’

Tom Dascombe: ‘KACHY won well at Chester.  We expected him to win and he did and we’ll learn a lot more about him tomorrow.  We knew he was a nice horse and it’s not easy to win at Chester first time, so he’s bound to improve from that, but he needs to improve to be competitive in a race like this.  The horse he beat at Chester of Mark Johnston’s [MUHADATHAT] is taking us on again and has won since, so it looks reasonably good form.  The ground was pretty quick at Chester, but I don’t think he necessarily needs quick ground, so we’ll see what happens.’

Charlie Appleby: ‘ROULEAU has progressed with each run.  He would prefer a sounder surface and we are hoping that the ground might have dried out a bit by Wednesday.  He is dropping back to five furlongs but there is a lot of speed in the pedigree and he is a half-brother to Amadeus Wolf. I am looking forward to seeing him run.’

Wednesday Goodwood 4.20 – 6F Maiden Fillies Stakes (Class 2)

Richard Hannon: ‘We have two in the fillies maiden.  WINTER ROSE has thrived physically through the summer and ran a very promising race when finishing third on her debut at Newmarket, and she has a solid chance on that form as we know she’ll have come on for that first run, while newcomer FORGOTTEN WISH, a Lilbourne Lad filly, is ready to roll.’

Robert Cowell after ROCKING RUDOLPH’s win at Southwell yesterday:

‘ROCKING RUDOLPH became our first debut winner this year amongst our youngsters. She is a tall, rangy filly who looked a class above her company yesterday on the all weather track at Southwell.  We have no doubt she will go on to bigger and better things.’

Kevin Ryan after DUTCH MIST completed a hat trick at Thirsk last week:

Dutch Mist is now three wins from her first four runs and each one has been more impressive than the last. Having shed her maiden tag at Thirsk she went on to secure a nursery at Catterick in decisive fashion. Although it was won with great ease there were a few question marks as it was only a three runner race but any doubters were swiftly dealt with when Dutch Mist came from last to first and take the Sailun Tyres Nursery at Thirsk.

It is always difficult to gauge where you stand in nurseries at this time of year with the 2 year old handicaps only just getting into gear. Could you be bumping into horses that are fast improving and carrying no weight or possible a very smart early type who has been handed a relatively fair mark. There didn’t seem to be any problems with the Sailun Nursery as all the runners had shown their credentials and it looked to be a very competitive race. Dutch Mist has always shown plenty at home and has been on an upward curve since her debut run at Nottingham. With the well backed and highly thought of Dark Defender (K.Dalgleish/P.Makin), fresh from his York success, lining up she was going to have to be at her very best.

Shane Gray has been taking the eye of many racing experts this season but unfortunately the winners just dried up in the last couple of weeks. Undeterred, Shane has continued to showcase his talent and was the one called up to take the ride on Kevin’s filly. The decision to run was last minute but after watching the first couple of races, Kevin was happy that the ground was suitable for his filly.

Dutch Mist has shown plenty of early speed in her races so far but after breaking a little slowly she had a new experience to handle. Sat last of the seven runners she was now going to have to pass the entire field to win. Shane used his head though and rather than sticking to plan A and rushing the filly up he sat, reverted to plan B and allowed his mount to find her feet. The pace was strong early on, exactly what is expected at Thirsk and the field were stretched out enough for a sprint. The ground was a little loose on top top, but lovely underneath, and this just caught Dutch Mist out a little as she tried to find her rhythm. With the field all filtering towards the stands side rail, which generally is the place to be, Kevin’s filly was going to have to find a different route when challenging. The strong pace soon found the field motoring past halfway but despite this there were no obvious signs of anyone struggling just yet. Shane was using his head and still sat at the back, in no hurry to make a move or force his filly to go any quicker than she needed to.

As the 2f marker loomed the pace quickened and the horses on the front end tried to steal a march. Dark Defender, the well backed favourite was one of the first to crack and made no headway under pressure. Dutch Mist was still travelling strongly and now Shane had a decision to make, be brave and try to find the gaps or be sensible and sweep round the outside. He chose the latter, the longer but safer route. Inside the 2f pole he switched Dutch Mist left and delivered his challenge down the centre of the track. Dutch Mist responded and quickened with the urgings, swiftly moving up to the just behind the leaders. He pulled his stick through to his left hand to ensure a straight run and with a couple of flicks the filly found another gear. As they moved past the 1f pole the pair had a slender lead but then as the race went on they began to dominate. As Dutch Mist crossed the line she held a 1 1/4 length advantage although she was going away from the second.

It was an impressive display and one that shows the progression of Dutch Mist is by no means over. She had to show a different running style and she did in decisive fashion. By conceding almost a stone in weight to the second and third horses it shows just how good a performance it was. Shane again proved to everyone he has a great maturity for his youth and continues to develop as a jockey. Dutch Mist has now earned a crack at pattern company. There is a very good nursery at Newmarket next week or Kevin may take the decision to step her up to Listed company. The one thing that is certain is that Dutch Mist is a very nice filly and she looks to have plenty to aim at for the rest of the season.

Racing Post Juvenile Judge’s latest recommendations:

DANEHILL KODIAC, 4th, Newbury, July 17

With the third coming out and winning, this is beginning to look like fair form, and the Richard Hannon-trained colt shaped well. Having been prominent throughout, he was unable to quicken initially, but then got the hang of things to finish off well. The experience should not be lost on him and he can give his trainer another juvenile winner.

HUMPHREY BOGART, 3rd, Chelmsford, July 21

This was a pleasing debut from a colt who will be seen to better effect over further. Outpaced rounding the final turn, the son of Tagula then kept on steadily to the line, beaten two and a half lengths. With a stamina-laden pedigree, he looked in need of an extra furlong having tackled 6f on the Polytrack.

UNDER ATTACK, 6th, Sandown, July 22

On the face of it this was a disappointing effort after a promising debut, but the colt did become unruly before the start, unshipping his rider. He was never a factor in the race from off the pace, and also looked a bit green still when let down for an effort. If forgiven that effort he still remains of interest, but may need to see a lot further as he is bred for middle distances.

FAWAAREQ, 4th, Ascot, July 24

This looks a maiden worth following, with the winner, Wall Of Fire, impressing along with some of those in behind. The soft ground may have blunted this colt’s turn of foot and he was also not in the best of positions as the race reached a climax. However he was sent off favourite and could go close when next seen.

 

Tuesday 28 July Summaries: Wolverhampton, Goodwood and Beverley

Wolverhampton 1.50 – 7F Maiden Auction Stakes (Class 6) Standard

Nine runners, including five fillies.  All had run previously and four have been given official ratings, the highest being shared by LIVELLA FELLA and THREEBAGSUE with ORs of 69. BEAUCHAMP MONARK was wearing cheekpieces for the first time.

Favourite: BRESLIN 7/4 (had been 9/1 in the morning).

1st – FOUR’S COMPANY OR 64 (Tom Dascombe) Led over a furlong out and ran on well.  Third on previous two outings, over 5F at Windsor and then in a 6F nursery at Doncaster.

2nd – LIVELLA FELLA OR 69 (Keith Dalgleish) Outpaced three furlongs out but kept on to take second inside the last.  Has now been placed on her last four starts (most recent run at Musselburgh).  On her previous run, she had finished runner up to WELFORD (now OR 93) beaten just over two lengths, receiving 5lbs.

Dead Heat 3rd – INVIGORATE (Harry Dunlop) Runner up over 6F, beaten a neck, on most recent outing also here.

Dead Heat 3rd – BEAUCHAMP MONARK (Paul Fitzsimons).  Led until headed over a furlong out.  Last time out finished third at Lingfield when he also tried to make all.

Distances: 2½ lengths, 1½ lengths

The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference approaching the three furlong marker. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that BRESLIN, sixth, ridden by John Egan, had interfered with THREEBAGSUE, unplaced, ridden by Liam Jones, who in turn interfered with SILHOUETTE, unplaced, ridden by Steve Drowne.  The Stewards found Egan in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding in that he manoeuvred to his right causing THREEBAGSUE to check, consequently causing SILHOUETTE to be moved wide.  They suspended him for 3 days as follows: Tuesday 11, Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 August 2015

John Egan, the rider of BRESLIN, reported that the colt hung badly left in the home straight. The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of the colt during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.

Tom Dascombe: ‘Four’s Company has been running well without winning and the step up in trip really helped.  She got a dream run up the inside and she’ll probably go to Chester on Sunday now.’

Goodwood 2.35 – 7F Vintage Stakes (Group 2) Good to Soft

A preview of this race can be read here.

Non Runner: AIR VICE MARSHALL (going).

Favourite: BIRCHWOOD 10/3

The first five were all held up early and GALILEO GOLD took over in front over a furlong out and ran on well under pressure to win.  PALAWAN, at the rear with two furlongs to go, drifted over and finished on the stands side rail.  BIRCHWOOD was most affected by the interference detailed below and had to be switched and probably did well to finish in fifth.

1st – GALILEO GOLD (Hugo Palmer)

2nd – IBN MALIK (Charlie Hills)

3rd – PALAWAN (Richard Hannon)

4th – TWIN SAILS (Dean Ivory)

5th – BIRCHWOOD (Richard Fahey)

Distances: ¾ length, nose, nose, 1¼ lengths

The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference approaching the furlong marker. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that BEAVERBROOK, placed sixth, ridden by Franny Norton, had interfered with BIRCHWOOD, placed fifth, which in turn interfered with the winner, GALILEO GOLD, ridden by Frankie Dettori.  The Stewards found Norton in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding in that he had allowed his colt to shift right handed away from the whip and failed to take corrective action before causing interference. They suspended him for three days as follows: Tuesday 11, Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 August 2015.

https://twitter.com/Channel4Racing/status/626024989360263168

Harry Herbert, representing Al Shaqab Racing: ‘Galileo Gold is a lovely horse in the making and I think he’ll get further than a mile next year. He´s got the size and scope to go on – he´s not just a two-year-old.’

Frankie Dettori: ‘It was an eventful race and I got the splits at the right time, but he dug deep and he won well.  He showed a good attitude and I was very impressed.’

Goodwood 4.55 – 6F Maiden Stakes (Class 2) Good to Soft

Fourteen colts, including three newcomers.  Richard Hannon supplied five of the runners. Only PAPA LUIGI (OR 79) had been given an official rating.

Favourite: INLAND SEA 4/1 (from 11/2)

The winner was always prominent and led a furlong out, keeping on.  OPERATIVE made late headway to finish fourth.

1st – INLAND SEA (Richard Hannon)  Holds a Derby entry.  Fourth at Windsor on debut; the winner was given an OR of 80 after that race and has since been beaten three lengths in a Listed race (the winner had an OR of 97).  He is out of a mare who won in USA and she has produced a full brother who won a Group 2 race  at 5F and a Group 1 race at 6F.

2nd – PAPA LUIGI (Richard Hannon) Third at York on his most recent appearance.  Previously finished about five lengths behind TWIN SAILS (fourth in the Group 2 earlier today).

3rd – SCARLET DRAGON (Eve Johnson Houghton) Newcomer.  Purchased for 38000 guineas as a foal and was then resold as a yearling for 32000 guineas.  He is from an unraced mare (half sister to a Listed race winner at 8F) and her only foal to race has been well beaten in three starts.

Distances: ½ length, ¾ length

William Twiston-Davies, the rider of OPERATIVE, placed fourth, reported that the colt was unbalanced throughout.

Graham Gibbons, the rider of SIR ROGER MOORE, unplaced, reported that the colt was denied a clear run.

Adam Kirby, the rider of GOODWOOD ZODIAC, unplaced, reported that the colt had no more to give. The Stewards ordered GOODWOOD ZODIAC to be routine tested.

Richard Hannon: ‘Inland Sea is a half-brother to No Nay Never so has a very good pedigree.  I haven’t given him any fancy entries because he’s come along quite late, but he´s got lots of ability and the Mill Reef could be a race for him. 6F or 7F won´t be a problem.’

Beverley 2.45 – 7½F Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Soft

Six runners, including two fillies.  Two colts and one gelding were making their debuts.  None of the runners had received an official rating.

Non Runners: SIMPLE ATTACK (going) and RIVER THAMES (lame).

Favourite: JORDAN SPIRIT 11/8 (from 2/1).

Market Movers: MOI AUSSIE 8/1 (from 14/1 in the morning), SILVER STREAK 14/1 (from 9/1)

MOI AUSSIE led until a furlong out and was passed by the first three.  JORDAN SPIRIT looked to be travelling comfortably (traded at a low of 1.19 in running) but was one paced inside the final furlong.

1st – TOBOGGAN’S FIRE (Ann Duffield) Previously finished third at Ayr, beaten 2½ lengths (the winner has been given an OR of 72).

2nd – SILVER STREAK (Ann Duffield) Already gelded and a newcomer today.  He cost 45000 euros as a yearling and is from a mare who won a 10F maiden in Ireland.  She has produced a full sister who won at 6F (OR of 71).  Other siblings have won up to 12F.

Distance: Neck

The Stewards noted that on leaving the stalls JORDAN SPORT, placed third, had to be checked when crowded for room by HEIR TO A THRONE, unplaced, which jumped right-handed, and MOI AUSSIE, placed fourth, which jumped left-handed, but after viewing a recording of the incident they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence.

Ann Duffield: ‘I was chuffed with her debut at Ayr and with that experience under her belt and this extra half-furlong, Toboggan’s Fire has done well.  I couldn’t be more pleased with my other horse [Silver Streak].  He got locked away, otherwise he might have won.’

Beverley 3.20 – 5F Maiden Auction Stakes (Class 5) Soft

Seven runners including five fillies, one of whom was a debutante.  Two of the runners had received official ratings, CROMBAY (OR 70) and ROARING RORY (OR 67).

Non Runner: NAZIBA (going)

Favourite: CROMBAY 6/5 (from 10/11)

Market Movers: SUNNYHILLS BELFORD 13/2 (from 9/1), GARDEN WORLD 7/1 (from 9/1).

CROMBAY led early and two furlongs from home, she raced more towards the centre of the track, rather than the inside rail.  GARDEN WORLD challenged even wider and led inside the final furlong.

1st – GARDEN WORLD (Nigel Tinkler) Finished sixth on debut over course and distance, just behind TWENTYSVNTHLANCERS who she beat today by just over three lengths.  She cost 22000 euros as a yearling and is from a mare who won a 7F maiden.  She has produced one winning foal. a 5F maiden.

2nd – CROMBAY (Tim Easterby) Also finished runner up at Ripon on her most recent start

Distance: ½ length

Ollie Pears, the trainer of ROARING RORY, placed fourth, reported that the gelding was unsuited by the Soft ground.

Joey Haynes, the rider of SUNNYHILLS BELFORD, last of the seven runners, reported that the filly fly-leapt leaving the stalls, causing it to be slowly away.

Nigel Tinkler: ‘Garden World is lovely, very chilled, very laid-back and with a great attitude.  I would have been disappointed if she’d been beaten today.  She was a bit timid first time out, and was a bit like that today, but she’s learning all the time.’

Monday 27 July Summaries: Ayr, Southwell and Windsor

Race summaries for Ayr 2.00 and Southwell 5.35 have been added to the previously published Race Notes

Windsor 5.55 – 5F Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Good to Soft

All five declared runners contested this maiden.  The field included two fillies and one of the colts was making his debut.  None of the runners had achieved an official rating.

Favourite: NISSER 3/10

Market Movers: DREAM DESTINATION 11/2 to 9/2

1st – NISSER (Richard Hannon) Led over a furlong out and pushed clear.  Fourth at Ascot on his most recent start but previously NISSER had been made favourite at Newmarket on his debut but finished third, 3½ lengths behind a subsequent Group 2 winner.

2nd – DREAM DESTINATION (Sylvester Kirk) Newcomer.  Stayed on late to take second place inside the final furlong.  Purchased for 15000 guineas as a foal and was resold as a yearling for 100000 guineas.  He is the first foal from a mare who remained a maiden after racing in France (half sister to a Group 1 winner at 12F in Australia).

Distances: 3¼ lengths, 1½ lengths

Richard Hannon: ‘We thought Nisser was our Coventry horse and we still think he´s very good.  He’ll have a break now and come back later on in a conditions race or maybe something like the Horris Hill.’

Windsor 6.30 – 6F Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Good to Soft

Fifteen runners contested this maiden. The field consisted of thirteen colts and two geldings. Five of the runners were newcomers.  None of the runners had achieved an official rating.

Non Runners: WINGED DANCER (going)

Favourite: FAST AND HOT 7/2 (from 4/1)

Market Movers: IRISH ECLARE 6/1 to 4/1, INHERENT VICE 9/2 to 6/1, SHAKERATTLENROLL 12/1 to 16/1, KENSTONE 14/1 to 20/1.

1st – SHAKERATTLENROLL (Paul Cole) Tracked leader on the stands side rail, waiting for a gap which (may have) appeared a furlong out.  Stayed on well to win.  Previously third on debut at Brighton before finishing sixth at Wolverhampton, when favourite.

2nd – MAMILLIUS (George Baker) Newcomer, ran on well to finish second.  Purchased for 16000 euros as a foal and then resold at a Breeze Up sale for 70000 guineas.  He is the first foal from an unraced Godolphin mare.

3rd –  FAST AND HOT (Richard Hannon) Newcomer, stayed on well to finish third.  Cost 100000 guineas as a yearling.  He is out of a mare who won at 7F and was placed in Group 1 races at 7F and 8F.  She has produced winning foals between 6F and 12F (also hurdles), including a winner of two Group 1 races at 8F.

Distances: ½ length, 1 length

IRISH ECLARE finished in twelfth place, INHERENT VICE seventh and KENSTONE was eighth.

The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference at the furlong marker.  Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that SHAKERATTLENROLL, ridden by Cam Hardie, had interfered with XCELERATION, unplaced, ridden by Frederik Tylicki.  The Stewards found Hardie in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding, in that he had pushed his mount into a tight gap causing XCELERATION, on the rail, to take a check.  They suspended Hardie for 2 days as follows: Monday 10 and Tuesday 11 August 2015.

Cam Hardie: ‘It got a bit tight, but Shakerattlenroll was very game.’

Southwell 6.05 – 5F Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Standard

Six runners went to post for this maiden.  There were two fillies and two newcomers in the field.  None of the runners had achieved an official rating.  SEA OF UNCERTAINTY was visored for the first time.

Non Runners: MONT KIARA (declared in error).

Favourite: COMPARINKA 9/4 (opened 6/5)

Market Movers: ROCKING RUDOLPH 7/2 to 5/2, STRICTLY CARTER 4/1 to 11/4, TAN ARABIQ 9/1 to 7/1 and SEA OF UNCERTAINTY 12/1 to 10/1.

1st – ROCKING RUDOLPH (Robert Cowell) Debutante, led over one furlong out and eased down near the finish.  She cost 40000 dollars as a yearling and is the first foal from a mare who won in USA at 8F.

2nd – SEA OF UNCERTAINTY (Alan McCabe) Led on stands rail until passed; one paced thereafter.  Well beaten at Haydock over 6F on debut.  He is the first foal from an unraced mare (half sister to Group 3 winner in France at 9F)

Distances: 3 lengths, 2¼ lengths.

COMPARINKA finished in third place and TAN ARABIQ was fifth.

Martin Harley, the rider of STRICTLY CARTER, placed fourth, reported that the colt hung right throughout.

Greg Chung, trainer´s representative: ‘Rocking Rudolph won nicely.  She’d been working like a nice filly and we’d have been surprised if she hadn’t been in the shake-up.  She´s a lovely looking filly.’

News Update

Connections comments have been added to the Vintage Stakes preview.

Daniel Kubler on the chances of SILHOUETTE in the 1.50 at Wolverhampton on Tuesday:

‘Silhouette heads to Wolverhampton for the 1.50 tomorrow (Tuesday, July 28th).  Steve Drowne maintains his partnership with the colt in the seven furlong maiden.  Silhouette was very green on his first day at the races and got bumped just as the race was developing and ended up detached over an inadequate trip and wasn’t therefore able to get very involved.  He probably didn’t therefore learn as much as one would like that day.  He isn’t the fastest learner at the best of times.  He is quite a stuff colt who puts on weight easily so there is also room for improvement on the fitness front.  Tomorrow is very much another step in his education and hopefully he will get more involved.

Silhouette faces some experienced rivals for a maiden who know their job at this stage and set a reasonable if not insurmountable standard.  There is little to pick between Livella Fella and Invigorate in terms of form, but it is perhaps Breslin that will overtake them both after a reasonable showing at Ascot first time out.’

Following GUTAIFAN’s success in France on Sunday, a return trip may be on the cards. Richard Hannon:

‘The G1 Prix Morny looks the ideal race for Gutaifan.  Sheikh Joaan won the Morny last year with The Wow Signal, and the French have only managed to keep the prize at home once in the last 10 years, so, hopefully, we can relieve them of the trophy once again. Gutaifan has plenty of speed and looked to relish that rain-softened ground, and now that he has progressed to win a G2 it makes sense to aim for the top floor.  He was very brave in front and is improving all the time, while six furlongs at Deauville would suit him well.’

Richard Hannon’s website also includes comments about Friday’s Ascot winners MARENKO and WALL OF FIRE: ‘

Richard Hannon said: I was very disappointed with Marenko on her debut at the July meeting, but she did everything wrong there, blew the start and then ran green.  It was a different story at Ascot, where she hit the gates smartly and never looked like being beaten.  She looks a pretty decent filly, certainly above-average, and I would think we might well take a shot at black type with the Prix du Calvados at Deauville a possibility.’

Richard Hughes was impressed with Marenko and said: ‘She was drawn on the wing at Newmarket and lost eight lengths when veering at the start, but I cruised up there at half-way and felt we might be in business, only for the filly to fall in a hole.  However, the experience was not lost on her and she won well at Ascot.’

Richard Hughes on Wall of Fire: ‘He was a bit lazy in front, but I gave him a couple of slaps and he put his head down and went again.  Like all ours, he can only improve, but we have quickly discovered that while the first crop of Canford Cliffs are pretty smart, they are not all precocious, so we have given this one plenty of time.  I was always taught that a river doesn’t need pushing, so you have to be patient with horses and let them come along in their own time.  Wall of Fire is still a bit weak, but he is strengthening all the time, though I recommended Richard not throw in him the deep end just yet.’

SALVO who finished fifth in Saturday’s 6F Princess Margaret Stakes (Group 3) at Ascot may now be aimed at the 6F Dick Poole Stakes (Group 3) at Salisbury in September.  Charlie Fellowes:

‘It was the ground. I knew that the writing was on the wall within the first furlong when she changed legs a couple of times.  We will give her a break and maybe go for the Dick Poole Stakes at Salisbury.’

Hugo Palmer’s 2yo update (25 July):

‘PASS THE MOON was sixth at Nottingham last Friday. She hit one undulation and downed tools. She’s proving to be a really frustrating filly.  Early in the year, when we started galloping the two-year-olds, we had earmarked as our Queen Mary filly. It’s looking now like she’ll take some persuading to win a 0-65 nursery.  I think we’ll probably come back to the all-weather with her – the even surface is where she’s shown her best form and we’ll see how we get on with that.’

‘NIDNOD won at Lingfield on Saturday.  I love Nidnod.  She was my sharpest and earliest two-year-old filly and she got struck into at Newmarket first time out and nearly fell over. She completely lost her action and nearly finished last.  That took time to heal and then she got a cough and then she got a bit of ringworm and then she got a sore shin, and so for various reasons we’ve had a really stop-start time with Nidnod.  But we’ve had a good clear run with her now and that really paid because she won very well.  I thought she was really brave to go through that gap and we might run her either at Newmarket or at Goodwood at the end of the week.  I think 73 is a workable mark for her and I think there’s more progress to come.  New Providence was rated 73 this time last year.  I’m not sure Nidnod will ever get to 107 but we can but dream and we’ll certainly try and win off 73.’

 

Preview: Tuesday 28 July – Vintage Stakes (Group 2)

Goodwood 2.35 7F Vintage Stakes (Group 2)  

NOTE I HAD DRAFTED THIS PREVIEW BEFORE THE NEWS THAT AIR VICE MARSHAL APPEARS TO BE A NON RUNNER.  RATHER THAN REWRITE THE PREVIEW, I HAVE PUBLISHED IT AS INTENDED.

At the time of publication, the current going is ‘Straight: Soft, Good to Soft in places, Round course: Good to Soft’ and the weather forecast suggests no more than a shower so the ground should not deteriorate further and may improve to good.

Nine colts have been declared for this Group 2 race and all are previous winners.  Five of the runners have been given official ratings; BIRCHWOOD is the highest of these at 108.  All of the runners are set to carry 9-1, except for BIRCHWOOD who has a 3lb penalty for winning a Group 2 race.

There have been several previous meetings of the runners, notably:

11 July Newmarket – 7F Superlative Stakes (Group 2) Good to Firm  

1st – BIRCHWOOD

2nd – AIR VICE MARSHAL (beaten one length)

5th  – BEAVERBROOK (beaten just over four lengths)

16 May Newbury – 6F Conditions Stakes (Class 2) Good

1st – BIRCHWOOD

2nd – BEAVERBROOK (beaten 1½ lengths)

18 July Chester – 7F Conditions Stakes (Class 2) Good

1st – WELFORD

3rd – PALAWAN (beaten 3½ lengths)

BIRCHWOOD OR 108 (Richard Fahey) – Three wins from his four starts to date; the only blot coming on Good to Yielding ground in a Listed race at Naas.  After his last win at Newmarket, Richard Fahey offered this possible explanation: ’I don’t think his mind was on the job at Naas, he was flighty and on his toes beforehand and he just didn’t run his race.  I knew he was better than that but he had to come here and prove it, so I´m delighted.’

AIR VICE MARSHAL (A P O´Brien) – Prior to his run in the Superlative Stakes, he had won a 7F maiden but had encountered Good to Yielding ground over 6F at The Curragh on his debut when he finished third.

BEAVERBROOK OR 101 (Mark Johnston) – Prior to his run in the Superlative Stakes, he had finished fourth in the 6F Group 2 Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot.  Before the Newmarket race, Mark Johnston said: ‘‘I hope we have made the right decision taking Beaverbrook up to seven furlongs in what looks a very hot Superlative Stakes.’  Having weakened inside the final furlong, it remains to be seen whether 7F is his best trip at the moment.

GALILEO GOLD OR 92 (Hugo Palmer) – A winner of his last start at Haydock at 7F on Good to Soft ground.  After that win, Hugo Palmer said: ‘I don’t think he needs an ease in the ground.  It was pretty fast when he ran the first twice and it had rained on fast ground at Haydock, so it wasn’t genuinely soft.  I think he’s versatile.  He is a well-balanced horse and moves too well to want really soft ground.’

IBN MALIK  (Charles Hills) – A winner of a 7F Class 4 maiden at Newmarket on debut and the second and third have both won maidens on their next starts.  After his win, Charlie Hills said: ‘We were delighted with Ibn Malik’s win, who had been working well at home so we were hopeful he would put up a good show.  He was very nervous when he came in and the team at home did a great job settling him down.  He was still a bit fractious in the paddock but racing experience should improve that side of things.’

PALAWAN OR 90 (Richard Hannon) – Prior to his run at Chester, he had finished fourth in the 7F Chesham Stakes (Listed) before winning a 7F maiden at Salisbury.  After the Salisbury run, Richard Hannon senior said:  ‘I was quite impressed with PALAWAN in the Chesham and think he’s a very nice horse.  I very nearly didn’t run him as it’s quite quick.  He’ll be better with a bit of ease and he probably needs a little further.  We’ll see what the handicapper does, and if he gets a reasonable mark he´ll go down the nursery route.’

STRONG CHALLENGE (Saeed bin Suroor) – Two runs to date finishing second at Lingfield on debut, beaten 1¾ lengths by a subsequent Listed race winner who has been given an OR of 101.  His next outing was at Goodwood where he won a 6F maiden.  GUTAIFAN (OR 92), the runner up on that day  won a Group 2 race in France on Sunday.  On face value, it appears that this may have been a relatively weak for the grade.  It may be a negative that STRONG CHALLENGE has been off for nearly two months.

TWIN SAILS (Dean Ivory) – A 28/1 winner on debut before following up in a 6F Class 3 race at Salisbury.  After the Salisbury win, Dean Ivory said: ‘He had three things against him at Salisbury in that we probably ran him a week too soon after his other run, while the slight drop back in trip worked against him as you can see that he wants further than six furlongs.  It was also on a more undulating track which was a bit of a disadvantage, but if he goes to Goodwood he will have to learn how to handle them.  All in all it was a good run, but I am not going to excited about things just yet.’

WELFORD OR 93 (Mark Johnston) – After beating PALAWAN at Chester when he had an OR of 80, Charlie Johnston had said ‘If he is in a nursery this week he would look well in off just 86.’ As a result of that win, the handicapper has raised him to a mark of 93.  He was due to contest a nursery at Newbury last Thursday with his previous rating but was a non runner because of the going (Good to Firm).  Perhaps, Mark Johnston’s hand has been forced by the handicapper’s action as this race didn’t appear to be on the agenda a week or so ago.

Connections comments

Richard Fahey: ‘It won’t be easy tomorrow, he’s giving everything 3lb.  I wouldn’t know what happened to him when we took him to Ireland.  He played up in the preliminaries, he didn’t go down to the start that well and just wasn’t himself.  It was a filthy day – maybe that was it – it was just off the cuff.  When it rained over there I thought he’d love that, so we won’t be using the ground as an excuse tomorrow.  I’m happy with him, though, he’s done everything we’ve asked since Newmarket.’

Dean Ivory: ‘Twins Sails is well and we are excited.  Obviously, we are stepping him up quite a bit – maybe a little bit too high but we won’t know until we run him.  The Vintage Stakes looks a stiff race.  He should handle Goodwood.  The course is a little bit up and down but he has handled the gallops here at home very well and also won at Salisbury, so that should help him. The step up to seven furlongs should be fine for him.  As I say, it is a tough race and he has to improve.  If he gets in the frame, I would be delighted.  My father Ken, who has a part share in Twin Sails, will be attendance.  He had many great days and loves Goodwood.  Everyone loves Goodwood.’

Charlie Hills: ‘Paul Hanagan rode him on Saturday morning and was happy with him.  He’s one of the most inexperienced in the field but is a horse we like.’

Angus Gold (on IBN MALIK): ‘The form of his maiden has worked out with the second and third winning, but it’s the usual case of we’ll know a lot more after this.  He’s only run one race so I wouldn’t want to sound clever saying what ground he’d like.  If anything the rain might have helped him as I wouldn’t have thought he’d be suited to very quick ground coming down the hill.’

Saeed bin Suroor said: ‘STRONG CHALLENGE is doing well.  He won his last race nicely and the form of that race looks very strong, with the runner-up winning a big race in France over the weekend.  He is in good form and seven furlongs is a nice trip for him.’

Richard Hannon; ‘PALAWAN would need to improve to win the Vintage, but his fourth in the Chesham now looks smart form following the subsequent successes of Ballydoyle (second) and Sixth Sense (third), and he will be staying on when some of the others have cried enough.’

Hugo Palmer: ‘Galileo Gold is in great form and obviously it’s a big step-up in class to the Vintage Stakes on Tuesday.  There’s going to be quite a lot of rain in the area and he’s got form on soft ground.  I know that the favourite Birchwood doesn’t like soft ground so that puts him in a good place.  It’s obviously important for his new owners Al Shaqab to have runners at the meeting with Qatar putting vast amounts of very welcome money into it.  I hope he can do himself justice and give them a cheer in the race but he’s jumping straight into Group Two class from a novice.  That said, that’s something that two-year-olds do quite a lot.  I’ve always liked him and fingers crossed that he run a nice race.  I think he’ll handle the track and he’s versatile as far as ground is concerned.’

News Update: Sunday 26 July

Three British runners crossed the Channel to contest the Prix Robert Papin (Group 2) at Maisons-laffitte over 5½F and succeeded in filling all three places:

1st – GUTAIFAN OR 93 (Richard Hannon) 6/1.  A winner of a Class 2 Conditions race at Chester on his last start.

2nd – AJAYA OR 95 (William Haggas) 6/1.  A comfortable winner of a Class 3 maiden at York by 4½ lengths on his last start.

3rd – AREEN OR 104 (Kevin Ryan) 17/2.  Sixth at Newmarket in the July Stakes (Group 2) on his most recent appearance.

Distances: Head, 2 lengths

8 runners

Reaction to GUTAIFAN’s success:

Frankie Dettori: ‘It’s my first Papin.  It’s a massive race and I am delighted to win it.  He has improved a lot, he’s got speed and he likes this ground  (good to soft).  He is one of Richard Hannon’s nice progressive two-year-olds.’

Harry Herbert, racing manager to Al-Shaqab: ‘I was delighted with the way Frankie rode him because this is really his minimum trip and he is more of a six furlong horse.  We wanted him to be up with the pace.’

Martyn Meade has revealed the latest plans for KURLAND, seventh in the 6F Duchess of Cambridge Stakes Group 2) at Newmarket:

‘We are dropping Kurland back in trip as she just failed to settle over six furlongs.  The plan is to hopefully run her in the St Hugh’s Stakes at Newbury, which is back over five furlongs.’

Mark Johnson has confirmed that Coventry Stakes winner BURATINO is on course for the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes over 6F next month:

‘Buratino’s next run will be in the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes, all being well.  Everything’s gone absolutely according to plan – he’s spot-on, just ticking over.  The Keeneland Phoenix Stakes was always going to be the next run, nothing before that.’  

BURATINO could re-oppose the Coventry runner up, AIR FORCE BLUE at The Curragh. Aidan O’Brien:

‘At the moment, Air Force Blue, Painted Cliffs and Washington DC are in our calculations for the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh next month.  The three of them have plenty of solid form there and seem to have come out of their last races well.  Painted Cliffs won the Railway Stakes at the Curragh on Derby weekend, Washington DC won the Windsor Castle Stakes at Royal Ascot and the step up to six furlongs should be no problem for him.  At the moment they are the three being aimed at the race and we’ll take another look closer to the time.’

Race Notes for Monday 27 July: Ayr 2.00 and Southwell 5.35

Ayr 2.00 – 6F Median Auction Maiden Stakes (Class 5) Good

There are ten declared runners for this maiden, including two fillies.  There are three newcomers and none of the runners has yet been given an official rating.

CELEBRATION (Richard Fahey) – Third at Newcastle on debut before finishing fifth in a Class 4 maiden, beaten seven lengths. The winner of that race (received 5lbs) has been given an OR of 79; the runner up won a Class 5 maiden next time out.

CROFT RANGER (Michael Dods) – Already gelded newcomer.  Sold for £7500 as a yearling, from a mare who won at 7F in Ireland (highest winning OR of 72).  She has produced winning foals between 5F and 6F (highest winning OR of 74).

DOMINEENO (Richard Guest) – Seventh of eight last week over course and distance.

DREAMING OF RIO (Tom Dascombe) – Newcomer who cost 48000 euros as a yearling from a mare who won at 5F in Ireland (highest winning OR of 93).  She has produced one winning foal at 6F (OR of 77).

FARKLE MINKUS (Keith Dalgleish) – Runner up at Hamilton over 5F on debut, beaten five lengths by a filly who holds a Group 2 entry.

MAGICAL SPRING (David Barron) – Fourth at Beverley on debut, beaten over seven lengths. Purchased as a foal for 37000 euros but only made £18000 when resold as a yearling.  His dam won at 8F in Ireland (highest winning OR of 60) and she has produced one winning foal at 6F (OR of 64).

OUR PLACE IN LOULE (Noel Wilson) – Already gelded newcomer.  Purchased for 14000 guineas as a foal but only made 10000 guineas when resold as a yearling.  His dam remained a maiden after four starts (half sister to Listed race winner at 5F).  Amongst her winning foals, she has produced a full brother who won at 5F and 6F (highest winning OR of 82).

STRUMMER (Kevin Ryan) – Backed from 14/1 to 10/1 at Carlisle on debut in a similar event but although slowly away, was keeping on at the end and finished in sixth place.  Sold first as a foal for 5500 guineas, then as a yearling for 17000 guineas, he was most recently purchased for 50000 guineas at a Breeze Up sale.  His dam remained a maiden after three starts and she has produced one winning foal, a 6½F maiden in France.

COOL CRESCENDO (Rebecca Menzies) – Beaten twenty lengths at Thirsk on debut. Purchased at a Breeze Up sale for £15000, she is the first foal to race from an unraced mare.

TEEPEE TIME (Ann Duffield) – Unplaced on both starts to date (finished nearly five lengths in front of DOMINEENO previously).  Purchased as a foal for 20000 guineas and then resold as a yearling for £30000, she was due to be offered at a sale earlier this month but was later withdrawn.  Her dam was well beaten on her only start but is a half sister to a Group 1 winner at 6F but she has yet to produce a winning foal.

Pre-race comments

Nothing stands out as an obvious selection but at Carlisle, STRUMMER was not given a hard race after being slowly away.  Support on that day and the fact that he was sold for nearly three times his yearling price suggests he should be up to winning a race of this nature and this may well be that winning opportunity. After four winners on Saturday, we know there is not much wrong with the Ryan stable at present.

Summary

The going had changed to Good to Soft and as a consequence, there were two non runners on account of the going, MAGICAL SPRING and DOMINEENO.

FARKLE MINKUS was sent off the 6/4 favourite and there was support for STRUMMER (8/1 from 10/1).

1st – FARKLE MINKUS Made all and shaken up a furlong out to win easily.

2nd – STRUMMER Kept on but had no chance with the winner.

3rd – CROFT RANGER Described as green in the preliminaries, kept on but never in with a chance of challenging

Distances: 5 lengths and 3¾ lengths

Pleasing first run @ayrracecourse today for Our Place in Loule, just got tired in the closing stages, very promising! 👍

— Noel wilson (@NoelNlwilson69) July 27, 2015

Southwell 5.35 – 5F Nursery (Class 6) Standard

Nine runners have been declared for this nursery handicap which is being sponsored by Mick Appleby Racing (he trains SECRET CLAUSE in this race).  There is one previous winner in the field (MISU MONEYPENNY) and top weight is set to be carried by RAMPERS (OR 71). TEVERSHAM is due to be blinkered for the first time.

RAMPERS OR 71 (Jamie Osborne) – Finished third at Wolverhampton on his first appearance since being gelded.  Had previously finished runner up to MISU MONEYPENNY beaten 1½ lengths but conceding 11lb.  He is 7lb better off today.

TEVERSHAM OR 70 (Chris Dwyer) – Not been seen since the beginning of June (although a non runner earlier this month – not eaten up) when a beaten favourite in a three runner novice race.  Previously he had finished fourth, beaten about seven lengths by a horse who went on to win a Listed race and has been given an OR of 101.  His dam won at 6F (highest winning OR of 76) and she has produced winning foals between 7F and 10F (highest winning OR of 80).

MISU MONEYPENNY OR 67 (Scott Dixon) – Not been seen out since beating RAMPERS over course and distance in May.

COOL SILK BOY OR 65 (James Given) – Half brother to Tiggy Wiggy but yet to show anything like her ability.  Fourth last time out in a Class 4 maiden finishing just over two lengths, receiving 3lb, in front of CELEBRATION (see Ayr above).

ADDICTED TO LUCK OR 64 (David Evans) – Been off since the end of May.  1lb worse off with HIGH SPEED after finishing a neck behind that horse at Chester

HIGH SPEED OR 63 (Charles Hills) – His best placing came on his most recent appearance (fifth start) when second at Windsor in a Class 5 maiden, beaten nearly four lengths.

SECRET CLAUSE OR 56 (Michael Appleby) – Has only beaten one rival in three starts. However in that race he finished nearly nine lengths behind the winner who later won a nursery handicap off of 89 (raised to 95 afterwards).

BUSHWISE OR 55 (Milton Bradley) – Well beaten on her first two starts before finishing seventh, beaten nearly five lengths in a Class 6 maiden.

WICKED WOO OR 53 (Jo Hughes) – Beaten nearly two lengths when third in a nursery at Bath from 10lb out of the handicap.

Summary

All nine runners stood their ground for this nursery.  

MISU MONEYPENNY was sent off the 9/4 favourite (opened at 2/1).  There was support for RAMPERS (9/2 to 7/2), COOL SILK BOY  (7/1 to 5/1) and ADDICTED TO LUCK (20/1 to 17/2).  HIGH SPEED drifted from 5/1 to 7/1 and TEVERSHAM from 11/2 to 8/1.

1st – COOL SILK BOY Made most and ridden clear a furlong out to win

2nd – RAMPERS

3rd – SECRET CLAUSE

Distances: 3 lengths, 1¼ lengths

ADDICTED TO LUCK finished in fifth place, HIGH SPEED was fourth and TEVERSHAM was last of the nine runners.

The Stewards considered the running of MISU MONEYPENNY, ridden by Luke Morris and trained by Scott Dixon, which finished sixth.  They noted the trainer could offer no explanation for the filly’s performance.  The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race examination of MISU MONEYPENNY during routine testing failed to reveal any abnormalities.

James Given: ‘It has taken Cool Silk Boy a little bit of time to get the hang of things.  He was very green in his first two races and at Chester last time he was drawn seven of seven.’

Saturday 25 July Summaries: Ascot, Newmarket, Newcastle, York, Lingfield and Salisbury

Ascot 1.30 – 7F Winkfield Stakes (Listed) Soft

All four colts declared to run contested this Listed race.  They were all previous winners and two of the runners had been given official ratings.

Favourite: SIXTH SENSE 7/4

1st – SIXTH SENSE OR 97 (Mark Johnston) Made all but had to be driven out to win.  Holds entries in five Group 2 and one Group 1 race before the end of September.  Previously third in the Chesham Stakes over course and distance.  Finished seventh in the 6F July Stakes (Group 2) on his most recent start.

2nd – PLATITUDE (Sir Michael Stoute) Previously a winner at Doncaster of his only race, a Class 5 maiden.

3rd – MANAAFIDH (Richard Hannon) Won at Newmarket on debut in a Class 4 maiden.

4th – ESSENAITCH OR 80 (David Evans) A winner of a Class 5 maiden at Windsor on his most recent start.

Distances: 1¼ lengths, 1¼ lengths, ½ length

Mark Johnston: ‘He deserves a decent win.  You can see from that similar run in the Chesham that coming back in trip last time out was a mistake.  The Chesham form is working out well. He has come back to Listed class and won and the next stage would be to step him back up again.  I would have thought, long term, he would be one for the Royal Lodge but I have not really thought much beyond this.’

Ascot 2.05 – 6F Princess Margaret Stakes (Fillies Group 3) Soft

CHIRINGUITA was a non runner (going) leaving six fillies to contest this Group 3 race.  All were previous winners and all, apart from SALVO had been given an official rating, the highest being BESHARAH at 107.

Favourite: BESHARAH 15/8 (from 2/1)

Market Movers: RAH RAH OR 102 (5/1 to 4/1), GREAT PAGE OR 104 (6/1 to 5/1)

1st –  BESHARAH (William Haggas) Tracked leaders and took over a furlong out and soon clear.  Last time out, she had finished second, beaten a nose, in the Duchess of Cambridge Stakes 6F (Group 2) at Newmarket.  Two runs previously, she had beaten WHATDOIWANTTHATFOR by two lengths, conceding 7lbs (the latter was making her debut in that race).

2nd – GREAT PAGE (Richard Hannon) A previous Listed race winner in Ireland and later fourth in a Group 3, also in Ireland.

3rd – WHATDOIWANTTHATFOR OR 87 (Richard Hannon) Won a Class 5 maiden and a Class 2 Race at Windsor, since her earlier defeat by BESHARAH

RAH RAH finished in fourth place.

Distances: 3 lengths, ½ length.

Quotes on BESHARAH:

Pat Cosgrave: ‘She’s done it well as it was a bit of an unknown on this ground.  She’s relaxing more in her races, which is good.’

Maureen Haggas: ‘She’s a real two-year-old.  She’s strong and she loves racing.  She’s done nothing but improve. There’s nothing better than having a good two-year-old – they seem to just sail through.  She’s not going to be a big, scopey three-year-old – this is probably her year.’

Bruce Raymond, racing manager for Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum: ‘We were obviously a bit concerned about the ground because she had never raced on it before and we didn’t know if she would go through it.  I imagine we will go to York for the Lowther then on to the Cheveley Park.’

Richard Hannon: ‘Great Page ran very well and she looks like she wants further, so we’ll go seven furlongs with her next.  Whatdoiwantthatfor might go back to five furlongs.  Something like the Roses Stakes at York could be for her.’

Newmarket 1.55 – 7F Maiden Stakes (Class 4) Soft

Eight colts contested this maiden after JUSTICE LAW was declared a non runner (going). There were five newcomers in the field and the three runners with experience had raced once each.

Favourite: MUNTAZAH 11/8 (from 13/8).

1st – RECORDER (William Haggas) Always prominent, challenged and driven a furlong out and kept on well. Previously had finished third in a Class 4 maiden at Newbury

2nd – CULTURATI (Charlie Appleby) Godolphin newcomer who holds Group 2 entries in September.  From a mare who won a Group 3 in Italy at 8F and a Listed race at 7F.  She has produced winning foals between 8F and 10F (highest winning OR 86); also place in a Listed race in France at 11F.

3rd – VENTURA STORM (Richard Hannon) Purchased for 50000 euros as a yearling and was then resold at a Breeze Up sale for 110000 guineas.  He is from a mare who remained a maiden after four starts (half sister to a Listed race winner at 12F).  She has produced one winning foal at 12F (OR of 65).

Distances: Neck, 1½ lengths.

MUNTAZAH finished in fifth place.

Stevie Donohoe, the rider of DOLLAR REWARD, unplaced, reported that the colt ran green.

William Haggas ‘RECORDER has done it nicely and will have learned a lot. We’ll now look to stepping up a grade and may consider the Acomb Stakes at York next month.’

Newmarket 4.15 – 7F Conditions Stakes (Class 4) Soft

All four declared colts contested this conditions race.  All four were previous winners but only ORVAR had been given an official rating (OR 101).

Favourite: ORVAR 11/8 (from 15/8)

Market Movers: RAUCOUS 9/2 from 5/1, ACADEMY HOUSE 7/1 from 5/1

ORVAR made the running and looked the likeliest winner but having initially drifted left towards the centre of the track in the final furlong and then veered sharply right.  In running, ORVAR and EQLEEM traded at lows of 1.10 and 1.50 and RAUCOUS traded at a high of 640.

1st – RAUCOUS (William Haggas) A winner of a two horse race at Sandown on his only previous start.  His rival on that day won a Class 5 maiden next time out.

2nd – ORVAR (Richard Hannon)  A winner of a Class 4 maiden at 5F before finishing sixth in a Listed race and then fifth in the 6F July Stakes (Group 2) here.

3rd – EQLEEM (Mark Johnston) A winner of a Class 5 maiden at Haydock on debut.

Distances: Neck, ¾ length.

The Stewards held an enquiry under Rule (B)11.6 into possible interference on the run to the line. Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that ORVAR (IRE), ridden by Sean Levey, had drifted right for several strides without correction causing interference to EQLEEM, ridden by Dane O’Neill, which had to take a check.  They considered the interference had not improved ORVAR’s placing as he appeared to be always maintaining his advantage to the line.  They ordered the placings to remain unaltered.  The Stewards found Levey in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding in that he had allowed his horse to drift right-handed without sufficient correction.  They suspended him for 2 days as follows: Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August 2015.

William Haggas: ‘RAUCOUS is a very nice colt, but is still a bit raw.  He´s got some fancy entries, including the Gimcrack, but I wouldn’t want to overdo him this year, so we’ll have to see.’

Newcastle 2.10 – 7F Maiden Auction Stakes (Class 4) Good to Firm

Six colts and two geldings contested this maiden stakes and there were two newcomers in the field.  None of the runners had achieved an official rating.  LORD MCGUFFY was wearing cheekpieces for the first time.

Favourite: STREET DUEL 9/4 (from 5/2)

STYLISH BOY led until two furlongs out when STREET DUEL took over. He idled in front which allowed GOOD INTENT to lead close home and he held on well to win.

1st –  GOOD INTENT (Kevin Ryan)  Newcomer; he was still several lengths down at the furlong pole and it was reported that his rider dropped his whip a furlong out.  He cost 37000 dollars as a yearling and is from a mare who won at between 5F and 7F in USA and has previously produced a 7F winner, also in USA.

2nd – STREET DUEL (Mark Johnston) Last time out, he was sent off as the 1/4 favourite in a Class 5 maiden at Brighton but could only finish in second.

3rd – STYLISH BOY (Richard Fahey) Second at Ayr on his most recent start.  On debut he had been beaten three lengths by a horse who has since been given an OR of 92.

Distances: Short head, ½ length

The Stewards noted that approximately one and a half furlongs out, Paul Mulrennan, the rider of STYLISH BOY, had struck BE KOOL, unplaced, ridden by Dale Swift, once with his whip, but after viewing a recording of the incident they were satisfied that it was accidental and neither involved a riding offence nor improved STYLISH BOY’s placing.

Royston Ffrench, the rider of LORD MCGUFFY, unplaced, reported that the gelding was never travelling.

Brian Ellison, the trainer of BE KOOL, reported that the colt was unsuited by the going which was good to firm.

Shane Gray: ‘GOOD INTENT got upset in the stalls, he was in a long time, and he missed the break, but his class got him through today.  There is loads of improvement in him, he is a big horse.’

York 4.05 – 6F  Median Auction Maiden Stakes (Class 4) Good to Firm

MISTER MISCHIEF was declared a non runner (going) leaving eight runners, seven colts and one gelding.  Two of the runners were having their first race and of those with experience, only BACK TO BOND had achieved an official rating (OR 71).

Favourite: POINT OF WOODS 15/8 (from 2/1)

POINT OF WOODS and REPUTATION had met previously over course and distance finishing fourth and sixth respectively, three lengths separating the pair. That was the debut run for REPUTATION and the second run for POINT OF WOODS.  They met on the same terms today.  POINT OF WOODS was prominent throughout, leading with a furlong to go but REPUTATION stayed on well to grab the victory on the line.

1st – REPUTATION (John Quinn) Cost £70000 as a yearling and is from an unraced mare who has produced winning foals between 6F and 10F (highest winning OR of 83) and a place in a Group 3 race at 7F.

2nd – POINT OF WOODS (Ralph Beckett) Cost 110000 guineas as a yearling and is from a mare who won at 5F, including a Group 3 race.  She has produced winning foals including between 5F and 8F (highest winning OR of 75).

3rd – BACK TO BOND (Richard Fahey) Finished down the field in the 5F Super Sprint (Class 2) but before that, had finished third at Thirsk in a 6F Class 5 maiden.

Distances: Head, 1¼ lengths.

John Quinn: ‘REPUTATION is still a bit ‘goony’ and he’ll improve again on that.  He´s in the sales races so he’ll probably go for one of those, maybe the Doncaster one here next month.’

York 5.10 – 5F Nursery (Class 3) Good to Firm

All nine declared runners stood their ground for this nursery handicap.  There were five previous winners in the field and top weight was carried by RAVENHOE (OR 85), who was sent off the 5/2 favourite.  ASTLEY HALL appears to have been gelded since his last run.

AYRESOME ANGEL (OR 79)  had led on three of her four previous starts and did so again today until inside the final furlong.  She has now traded lower in running in all of her runs to date.  ASTLEY HALL took over in front but was collared on the line by BINT ALDAR, who had been at least three lengths down as they entered the final furlong.  ROSINA also finished fast in third place.

1st – BINT ALDAR OR 71 (Kevin Ryan) Had won her maiden over 6F and last time out finished fourth in a 6F nursery here.  She finished a length behind the third horse (she was in receipt of 8lb) who has since been put up to an OR of 90.

2nd – ASTLEY HALL OR 77 (Richard Fahey) Had won his maiden at Pontefract on debut over 5F.

3rd – ROSINA OR 73 (Ann Duffield) A winner of a Class 3 maiden here on her only previous start.  Has been entered in the 5F Molecomb Stakes (Group 3) at Goodwood on Wednesday.

Distances: Nose, ¾ length

Lingfield 5.30 – 5F Maiden Auction Stakes (Class 5) Good to Soft

Seven runners: contested this maiden.  The field included three fillies and there was one newcomer among the runners.  Three of the runners had been given official ratings, the highest of which was ARAGON KNIGHT (OR 87).  He appears to have been gelded since his last run and was sent off the 6/4 favourite (opened at 13/8).

Market Movers: FLORENCIO, William Muir’s newcomer 7/1 to 6/1.

1st – JAKABY JADE (Jim Boyle) Slowly away but settled in behind the leaders on the stands side rail.  Challenged a furlong out and quickly went clear for an easy win.  Seventh at Windsor on debut; the fifth horse has since won a Class 5 maiden.  Her dam won in Sweden, including at 6F, and she has produced winning foals between 5F and 16F (highest winning OR of 73) and over hurdles.

2nd – BALLYLARE (John Best) Third last time out here over 6F.

Distances: 4 lengths

FLORENCIO finished in fourth place and ARAGON KNIGHT was sixth, eased when beaten.

The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference one and a half furlongs out.  Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that HEPWORTH MARBLE, placed third, ridden by Shane Kelly, had manoeuvred left briefly hampering DEER SONG, unplaced, ridden by William Carson.  The Stewards found Kelly in breach of Rule (B)54.1 and guilty of careless riding in that he had switched left when not sufficiently clear.  They cautioned him as to his future conduct in races.

They further noted that at around a furlong out HEPWORTH MARBLE had edged quickly left taking BALLYLARE off its intended line but after viewing a recording of the race they were satisfied that it did not involve a riding offence

Salisbury 6.45 – 6F Maiden Stakes (Class 4) Good

There were ten runners for this maiden, including two fillies and six newcomers.  None of the runners had an official rating.

Favourite: JAYJINSKI (Richard Hannon) 8/13 from 4/5

1st – STEEL OF MADRID (Richard Hannon) Newcomer.  Stable second string, got up on the line to win.  Cost 120000 guineas as a yearling and is the first foal to race from a mare who won a 7F maiden in Ireland.

2nd – VIBRANT CHORDS (Henry Candy) Another newcomer, led two furlongs out and caught close home.  Cost £75000 as a yearling and is from a mare who won at 6F and 7F (highest winning OR of 75) and was placed in a Listed race at 6F.  She has produced one winning foal at 5F (highest winning OR of 96).

3rd – POETS BEAUTY (Ismail Mohammed) Came from a fair way back to finish well.  Was still in the final pair with two furlongs to run, at least four lengths back, but ran on well.  Fifth on debut, just over three lengths behind a horse who now has an OR of 79.  Presumably something was amiss when last of twelve next time out as he had been given a six week break since.  His dam won at 6F and 7F (highest winning OR of 85) and she has produced winning foals between 6F and 8F (highest winning OR of 76).

Distances: Short head, ¾ length.

JAYJINSKI finished fourth, losing two places close to home.

The Stewards held an enquiry into possible interference approximately 2 furlongs out.  Having heard their evidence and viewed recordings of the race they found that POET’S BEAUTY, ridden by Thomas Brown, had hung left-handed despite the rider’s best efforts to correct it, taking DREAM OF SUMMER, unplaced, ridden by David Probert, off its intended line.  They found that the interference was accidental.