lunes, 10 de octubre de 2011

KEEPAX TAKES SALISBURY OPENER


Keepax finished off his race to good effect to snatch a last-gasp victory in division one of the Bathwick Tyres Maiden Auction Stakes at Salisbury.

The 14-1 chance had been well beaten in a warm Newbury maiden on his racecourse introduction but found life easier stepped up to seven furlongs.

Dutch Master looked the likely winner once battling his way to the lead, but Chris Wall's Keepax really hit top gear in the closing stages, with Chris Catlin punching the juvenile out to the line to collect by a neck.

Medieval Bishop ran out a determined winner of division two in the hands of Nicky Mackay.

Making his first start for David Elsworth, the 16-1 chance looked booked for second when 2-1 favourite No Compromise came past him under Steve Drowne towards the stands' side rail.

Neither Drowne nor Mackay picked up their stick in the closing stages and Medieval Bishop came back in game fashion to get the verdict by a nose.

With the new whip rule having come into force today, meaning Flat jockeys are only allowed to hit their mounts seven times during the race and five times inside the final furlong, Mackay admitted he lost count.

"A furlong out, I wasn't sure how many times I'd hit him, so I only ended up hitting him four times. It actually probably did me a favour as he ran on towards the end," Mackay told Racing UK.

"My horse was off the bridle quite a bit out as he was quite green and it is quite windy out there.

"I gave him a flick to get him running and then I gave him another smack.

"Then I started rowing away and the furlong pole came so I gave him one more and then I lost count."

There was another surprise result in division one of the Bathwick Tyres Maiden Fillies' Stakes as 33-1 shot Afnoon emerged victorious.

John Dunlop's youngster was beaten out of sight on her course and distance debut but clearly derived plenty from the experience.

Tadhg O'Shea had to get to work well over a furlong out but his mount responded generously to score by a length and a quarter from Scarlet Belle.

Richard Hannon's Operettist got the better of stablemate Traveller's Tales in division two.

Richard Hughes settled the 3-1 favourite in the middle of the pack in the early stages, while Ryan Moore was slightly more positive on Traveller's Tales.

The stable companions had it between them heading inside the last half a furlong, but Hughes always looked confident, pushing his mount out towards the line to win by a head.

EXCELEBRATION TEAM READY FOR ACTION


Marco Botti hopes Excelebration can continue to close the gap on Frankel in Saturday's Queen Elizabeth II Stakes Sponsored by QIPCO at Ascot.

He finished second, beaten four lengths, to Sir Henry Cecil's star in the totesport.com Greenham Stakes over seven furlongs at Newbury and third to Frankel, beaten two and a quarter lengths, in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Excelebration has won his other three races this year, the German 2000 Guineas, CGA Hungerford Stakes and Qatar Prix du Moulin.

"We are hoping to close the gap with Frankel - whether we will be good enough to beat him, who knows. I am aware it is a difficult task, but that's racing," Botti saud.

"In another era without Frankel, we could have been the best miler in Europe. It is still nice to have the chance to take on the best horse in the world. For a young trainer, it is very important to have a good horse that can be part of a big meeting.

"I have heard good things about Frankel. He has had a break since Goodwood and is going to be difficult to beat. If Sir Henry Cecil says Frankel is the best horse he has had, then it's scary! I can't see any weaknesses in Frankel and it will be no disgrace to finish second to him again.

"It was a good run in the Greenham Stakes, considering our horse was lacking experience and having his first run of the year. We knew Frankel would beat us, but we just wanted to test our horse.

"The St James's Palace was a little bit of a rough race and he was beaten two lengths. Our horse has improved a lot since Ascot - he is physically stronger and has grown a bit too.

"I wouldn't say he was unlucky at Royal Ascot but the race just didn't pan out for him. He lost ground leaving the stalls and got hampered. He had to chase Frankel and had no chance to find his stride. That was the only time he has ever hung. I don't think we would have won, but I think we could have finished closer to Frankel.

"This will be the third time we meet Frankel - hopefully it will be third time lucky!"

Botti feels his stable star has plenty going for him in Berkshire.

"Frankel will have a pacemaker and so there should be a good, even pace which should suit everyone. The straight course should also help Excelebration and l am happy with the weather forecast as he wants good ground," he added.

Connections are focusing on Saturday's race and have no firm plans beyond that.

"We haven't decided what we will do after Ascot. He could maybe go to Hong Kong but the Breeders' Cup looks very unlikely as it would come too soon," the trainer added.

"I need to talk to the owners about whether he stays in training next year. I would love to have him back next year as he improved physically throughout the season and in my opinion should make up into a better four-year-old."

MURTAGH BACK ON DEACON BLUES


Johnny Murtagh will ride ride Deacon Blues in Saturday's QIPCO British Champion Sprint Stakes at Ascot.

The Irishman partnered James Fanshawe's charge to victory in the Wokingham but Frankie Dettori has been in the saddle for two of his last three races.

Stablemate Society Rock will be partnered, as usual, by Pat Cosgrave, but Fanshawe has concerns over the prospect of fast ground for Deacon Blues.

"Deacon Blues would appreciate some ease in the ground," said the Newmarket handler.

"I intend to run them both but we'll have to reassess if the ground gets very quick."

GODOLPHIN PAIR CHASE CHAMPION GLORY


Casamento and Dubai Price will both represent Godolphin in the QIPCO Champion Stakes.

The latter, an impressive winner at Newbury recently, has emerged as Godolphin's first string - although jockey bookings have yet to be finalised.

Racing manager Simon Crisford said: "Dubai Prince and Casamento will definitely run.

"The jockeys need to be discussed and Sheikh Mohammed will make that decision and obviously Frankie will be involved.

"Casamento is the highest on ratings but we think Dubai Prince is our best chance in the race. He's an exciting horse and he deserves his chance to be there.

"Poet's Voice has the two options and we'll decide nearer the time which is most suitable.

"He's been a bit disappointing but is looking a lot better at home."

ASCOT WATER AS GOING DRIES OUT


The going at Ascot dried out on Monday morning to good to firm, good in places and watering has started.

An odd light shower is forecast for Monday and Tuesday, with blustery winds until Wednesday. It is then expected to stay mainly dry during the week.

Watering is under way with four millimetres being applied to the straight and round courses.

Chris Stickels, Clerk of the Course at Ascot, said: "The strong breeze has dried up the course in the last 24 hours and this has prompted Monday's watering.

"I don't want to be putting on a lot of water on the course at this time of year but we will monitor the situation through the week as the forecast is for mainly dry weather.

"I am looking to offer ground which is a combination of good and good to firm on Saturday."

BUNTING COULD RACE ON



Dual Classic winner Blue Bunting is finished for the season, but may remain in training as a four-year-old.

The Mahmood Al Zarooni-trained filly was a surprise winner of the 1000 Guineas in May but was a beaten favourite in the Oaks at Epsom.

She returned to winning ways in the Irish Oaks, also defeating older horses at York, before disappointing in the St Leger, after which it transpired she was in season.

"It was the plan to run Blue Bunting in the Fillies' and Mares' but she didn't really sparkle at the weekend so she's finished for the year. It's quite possible she'll stay in training," said Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford.

Delegator is another of Godolphin's big guns who will not be in action at Ascot.

His season has not gone to plan since his winning return at York, and the idea is to have him at his best for Hong Kong.

"He does his best when he's super-fresh so we're going to wait for Hong Kong and hope he gets invited," added Crisford.

GODOLPHIN TRIO GUNNING FOR FAME


Godolphin could run Opinion Poll, Cavalryman and Darley Sun in Saturday's

Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot.

They face a tough test against Fame And Glory but racing manager Simon Crisford is particularly keen on the chances of Opinion Poll, second in the Doncaster Cup last time following wins at York and Goodwood.

"All of them could possibly run, but Opinion Poll is in tremendous form," he said.

"He is as good as he has been all year and, looking at the entries, I'd say he can win that race."

John Gosden feels Nehaam could make his presence felt in the same race, adding: "Nehaam will run and it would be lovely if he got a place."

THINK HEADS QUALITY CHAMPION FIELD


So You Think leads a three-pronged Ballydoyle entry in Saturday's QIPCO Champion Stakes at Ascot.

Aidan O'Brien's Antipodean import was last seen running on into fourth in the Arc, and could be joined by potential pacemaker Windsor Palace and Hardwicke Stakes winner Await The Dawn.

The last-named was beaten into third by Twice Over in the Juddmonte International at York, and Sir Henry Cecil's star is on target to lock horns once again.

The well-fancied Nathaniel, winner of the King George at Ascot, is set to represent John Gosden, whilst other leading three-year-old's engaged include the Godolphin duo Casamento and Dubai Prince, along with the French-trained Reliable Man and Jim Bolger's Banimpire.

Top-class older fillies Midday and Snow Fairy are also amongst the six-day entries, whilst other notable runners include the William Haggas-trained Green Destiny, prolific French raider Cirrus Des Aigles and Michael Bell's globetrotter Wigmore Hall.

In total 17 horses have been entered for the Group One contest.

TIMEFORM: FRANKEL CLEAR OF RIVALS


Timeform have Frankel 12 pounds clear of his QIPCO Queen Elizabeth II Stakes rivals.

Winner of all eight starts at an average winning margin of more than five lengths, Frankel was rated 142 by Timeform after his runaway win in Newmarket's 2,000 Guineas in April, which makes him the highest-rated horse since the 1970s and the best horse in the world by seven pounds from Black Caviar.

He is also 12lb clear of his main form rival Immortal Verse at the weekend.

Simon Rowlands, Head of Handicapping at Timeform, said: "Frankel's lofty rating and remarkably dominant performances have invited comparisons with champions of yesteryear, such as the 144-rated Brigadier Gerard, who won the Guineas in 1971 and the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes in 1971 and 1972.

"While Frankel has proved impossible to beat so far, and has many pounds in hand of his rivals in Saturday's race , it is worth remembering that even the all-time greats usually get turned over once or twice in their careers.

"Brigadier Gerard was famously beaten once in 18 starts, at long odds-on by Roberto at York.

"And it would be a shock of similar proportions if Frankel were to come unstuck on Saturday at a distance and on a course at which he has been so superior to everything put up against him."

Timeform Queen Elizabeth II Stakes ratings (weight adjusted) :

152 Frankel, 140 Immortal Verse, 138 Excelebratio, Dick Turpin, 137 Cityscape, 133 Dubawi Gold, 132 Rio de la Plata, 128 Poet's Voice, 127 Side Glance, 124 Bullet Train.

FRANKEL TOPS ASCOT TEN


Frankel tops ten acceptors for Saturday's Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, sponsored by QIPCO, and as expected is joined by stablemate Bullet Train.

He will act as pacemaker for Sir Henry Cecil's brilliant miler who is unbeaten to date.

His main rivals on Saturday are star French filly Immortal Verse, winner of the Coronation Stakes and Prix Jacques Le Marois on her last two starts, and the exciting Excelebration.

Godolphin have left in Poet's Voice and Rio De La Plata while Richard Hannon has a strong hand with Dick Turpin and Dubawi Gold.

Cityscape and Side Glance complete the ten-strong field.

HOOF IT ABSENT FROM SPRINT ENTRIES


Hoof It is absent as Deacon Blues tops 18 entries for Saturday's QIPCO British Champion Sprint Stakes at Ascot.

Mick Easterby's star will swerve a clash with Roger Charlton's Bated Breath, who finished one place ahead of him in the Sprint Cup at Haydock.

Mick Easterby's four-year-old lost a shoe three weeks ago which prevented him from doing any serious work for a week.

Connections are still not satisfied with his progress.

David Easterby, the trainer's son and assistant, said: "It's still the same problem it was before, and we're working through it.

"The overseas races are still options but we haven't made any decisions yet, we're concentrating on getting the horse sound.

"All our efforts are going into doing what is right by the horse as there is always next year."

James Fanshawe has two runners engaged, with the wildly progressive ante-post favourite Deacon Blues set to be joined in the Group Two sprint by stablemate, and Ascot specialist, Society Rock.

Owner George Strawbridge could be doubly represented, with Freddie Head's filly Moonlight Cloud set to drop in trip and join Andrew Balding's Night Carnation in the race.

Other fillies entered at the six-day stage include Abbaye fifth Wizz Kid and Sir Mark Prescott's Hooray.

A battalion of older sprinters including Genki, Jimmy Style, Prime Defender and Royal Rock, as well as former Abbaye winner Total Gallery, are also amonst the 18-strong field.

FAME AND GLORY IN ASCOT RETURN


Ascot Gold Cup winner Fame And Glory is set to return to the Berkshire track on Saturday for the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup.

Aidan O'Brien's charge is looking to bounce back from a lacklustre run in the Irish St Leger last time and is joined in the field by stablemate Regent Street.

13 horses were left in at Monday's acceptance stage including the Godolphin trio of Cavalryman, Darley Sun and Opinion Poll.

Meeznah is set to step up in trip for the race while Chiberta King, Nehaam, Times Up, Motrice, Polly's Mark, Colour Vision and Eternal Heart complete the field.

DANCING RAIN HEADS QUALITY FIELD



Investec Oaks winner Dancing Rain features among the 14 acceptors for the QIPCO British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.

Johnny Murtagh will be reunited with William Haggas' charge and faces a quality field which includes Ribblesdale heroine Banimpire.

Sir Michael Stoute's Crystal Capella will be among the leading fancies while Jessica Harrington could run Bible Belt while Miss Crissy is a potential runner from France.

Sea Of Heartbreak holds an entry from the Roger Charlton stable though is likely to head to Canada for an engagement in the EP Taylor Stakes.

Meeznah also has the option of facing Fame And Glory in the big staying race on the card while Bolivia, Brushing, Ceilidh House, Cill Rialaig, Ferdoos, Gertrude Bell and Vita Nota complete the declarations.

PADY PRIMED FOR PUNCHESTOWN


Forpadydeplasterer is set to make his eagerly-anticipated return to action in the Star "Best For Racing Coverage" Chase at Punchestown on Thursday.

After winning the 2009 Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham, the nine-year-old filled the runner-up spot on his next seven starts, running with huge credit in races like the Queen Mother Champion Chase and the Melling Chase at Aintree.

He was pulled up on his first try at three miles in last season's King George VI Chase at Kempton and has not been seen since having returned to Ireland a sick horse.

He makes his seasonal reappearance over just a furlong shorter than three miles at Punchestown, but Cooper does not expect a lack of stamina to be a problem.

"Everything is fine with him and all going well he'll run on Thursday," said Cooper.

"We'll see how he gets on over the trip, but I think he'll be fine with it.

"He's in good form and while he'll improve for the run, I think he's fit enough to do himself justice - I wouldn't be running him otherwise.

"Hopefully he'll run well."

BIDDLECOMBE TAKEN ILL


Legendary National Hunt jockey Terry Biddlecombe has suffered a stroke this weekend.

The three-times champion jockey was taken ill on Saturday and is currenty undergoing treatment at the John Radcliffe Hospital at Oxford.

The 69-year-old was heavily involved in the development of three-times Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Best Mate, as assistant trainer to his wife, Henrietta Knight.

Speaking on her website, Henrietta Knight reported: " He is in the Stroke Ward - and looks like remaining there for a while until he can swallow and speak properly.

"Currently he is being fed by a drip and by a tube directly into his stomach. It looks very uncomfortable but he seems fairly peaceful."

TREE TARGETS CANADIAN REPEAT


Joshua Tree is in great heart as he leaves to defend his crown in the Pattison Canadian International at Woodbine.

Now trained by Marco Botti, he was prepared for the race 12 months ago by Aidan O'Brien.

The likes of the Charlie Hills-trained Redwood, third last year, and 2010 runner-up Mores Wells will be in opposition once more.

Since joining Botti, Joshua Tree has finished second at Newmarket and then third behind Arc winner Danedream in Germany.

With Adam Kirby having lost the ride on Botti's Excelebration in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, there is some compensation for him in that he will be in North America this weekend.

"He's leaving tonight and is running in Canada on Sunday and Adam Kirby will ride," said Botti.

"He did a nice piece of work at the weekend and is in very good order.

"We got him four months ago and we knew we had a good horse, but the run at Newmarket really brought him on.

"We'll see what happens but I think the owners would like him to go on to Dubai next year."

CHARLTON REVEALS KEYS EXCUSE


Roger Charlton has revealed Cesarewitch gamble Keys was struck into during last Saturday's Newmarket marathon.

Roger Charlton's four-year-old was backed from double figure prices into 6-1 favouritism for the handicap contest but never threatened to get involved at the business end and trailed home in 18th place.

Having already won three National Hunt Flat races, a season over hurdles would be a natural progression and Charlton is keen to see how he gets on in a schooling session with former jockey Marcus Foley.

"The Cesarewitch was a bit of a disappointment with Keys perhaps doing a little bit too much early on from his wide draw, he was also badly struck into on his near hind which will require a bit of treatment," Charlton told his website.

"There are no immediate plans for him but I would imagine that he would start schooling fairly soon with Marcus Foley to see whether he is going to be a decent hurdler or not."

Charlton has two of his best horses in action at Woodbine in Canada this weekend with classy sprinter Bated Breath running in the Nearctic Stakes instead of at Ascot while the filly Sea Of Heartbreak goes for the EP Taylor Stakes.

"The horses leave this morning via Amsterdam on their way to Woodbine," added Charlton.

"All being well they will arrive at Woodbine on Tuesday evening. Both Bated Breath and Sea of Heartbreak seem to be in good form, although I am not sure I like the forecast of rain over there later this week."

NEWBURY ON MUIRHEAD RADAR


Muirhead could be heading for the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury following his excellent display in the Munster National at Limerick on Sunday.

The eight-year-old was a Grade One winner during his novice hurdle campaign and has performed well at the highest level over the smaller obstacles on a number of occasions since, placing second in an Irish Champion Hurdle and fifth in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham.

Meade has successfully turned the talented gelding into a potent staying chaser judged on Sunday's performance and he could travel over to England next month.

"It was a good performance as he jumped and travelled well and the step up to three miles obviously suited him," said Meade.

"We'll see what sort of penalty he gets now before we make any plans for him, but I'll give him an entry in the Hennessy and we'll have a look at that.

"There is also a good handicap chase at Ascot (United House Gold Cup) but that's at the end of the month and might come a bit soon for him.

"He hasn't really had any problems. He pulled a muscle behind a little while ago but other than that, he's been sound.

"He's just been running in very good races."

WILLIAMS PLANS WEST AGENDA


Evan Williams believes there are plenty of big prizes to be won with West With The Wind following a superb display at Limerick on Sunday.

The six-year-old touched down on Irish soil having won six of his last nine starts, but looked to have plenty to do against proven Graded-race performer Loosen My Load.

But West With The Wind was barely troubled under Paul Moloney, making all of the running and winning as he liked on rain-softened ground.

Williams is keen to avoid testing conditions with his charge when possible and feels he could be a force to be reckoned with in the spring.

"I was absolutely delighted with him. We were worried about the ground beforehand but it was one of those experiments you try and thankfully it worked out," said Williams.

"He was very impressive on his handicap return at Ffos Las and we did think he'd improved since, but you never really know what to expect when you're stepping up into Graded company.

"It was a tough test for him but he actually did it in really good style and he's obviously a horse who is still improving all the time.

"The ground was yielding to soft on Sunday but I wouldn't want to take a chance with him on really soft ground.

"You'd like to think that if we kept him nice and fresh for the spring, there are plenty of Graded races to be won with him.

"We'll take small steps and you never know what the ground is going to be like over the next month or so.

"We'll probably keep him in training until the end of November, you won't see him in December or January and then hopefully he'll be back ready to go in the spring.

"We'll try to win a Grade Two with him next and see how we go."

CASPAR STILL PROGRESSING


Alan McCabe feels Caspar Netscher is still progressing despite his defeat in the Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

The two-year-old made significant headway having been in the rear throughout the early stages and he fairly flew home to claim fifth under Robert Winston, beaten just over a length by the winner, Crusade.

He remains on course for the Breeders' Cup.

"He's fine, he's in good order and all seems well. All roads lead to America now," said McCabe.

"It was arguably his best effort because it was his first run in a Group One and he was an unlucky loser.

"It's a tricky track and a unique course. He got shuffled back but it was amazing his run after that, a few more strides and he'd have been in front.

"What's worse is the fact that the horses who finished second and third we have already beaten and beaten them well (in the Gimcrack).

"But that's racing, he's survived to go on to Kentucky. On that run he's still progressing.

"Robert's initial reaction when he came in was that he should have won."

viernes, 7 de octubre de 2011

TATTERSALLS OCTOBER BOOK ONE UPDATES




1557: John Hills spends 58,000 for the only Sixties Icon at the sales, a half-brother to Fillies Mile runner-up Samitar.

1550: Lot 431, a Shamardal colt consigned by Mount Coote Stud, impresses and is eventually knocked down to Stuart Boman for 350,000, with John Ferguson the underbidder. The distaff side of the colt's pedigree goes deep and he'll be an interesting one to follow.

"He is a lovely colt, the best Shamardal in the sale," Boman told www.tattersalls.com . "He was well grown, and very forward. He will stay in the UK, but a trainer has yet to be decided.

"I have been underbidder a couple of times to John this week so it was nice to reverse things!"

1534: Having missed out on the Galileo filly, Charlie Gordon-Watson refuses to sulk and picks up an Invincible Spirit colt, from the family of Mick Channon's Saamidd, for a round 200,000.

1529: A slight lull as those in attendance get their breath back, and it's an Authorized colt who gets things going again.

Lot 429, a half-brother to proven Group horses Zipping and Zelding, from the family of Fire Lily, is bought back by John Ferguson, bloodstock advisor to Sheikh Mohammed, for 180,000. The horse was consigned by Darley's Kilfrush Stud.

1510: Disappointingly the sole representative of the first crop by American Horse of the Year Curlin catalogued in Europe this year fails to sell at 48,000gns.

1503: Almost out of nowhere, the ring springs into life as yet another Galileo filly takes centre stage. She's a sister to the Group Three winner Cabaret, and she fetches a book-busting 850,000 guineas.

She's knocked down to Sir Robert Ogden, making his first major purchase of these sales. He had to see off stern challenges from John Magnier and Charlie Gordon-Watson and it appears that he was serious when he decided to trim his NH interests in preference for the Flat.

"I knew we'd have a battle," Ogden told www.tattersalls.com. "She was the pick of the sale, a very nice filly. I knew there was a lot of interest in her, I knew Coolmore were interested.

"The brief to my people was that I did not want any horses by first-season sires or first foals - I wanted proven and top pedigrees.

"It's not been easy, we've been waiting on the sidelines for the right horse."

Sir Robert's racing manager Barry Simpson said: "She is a fantastic individual with a wonderful pedigree. Sir Robert loved her the minute he saw her. We've had to wait all week - we've been very patient.

"There is no trainer decided as yet and she will go from here to Sir Robert's stud. I think I'll go for a large brandy now!" he joked.

She was consigned by Croom House Stud, who have also produced Maybe and Zoffany in recent years.

1459: A good-walking Montjeu colt out of a sister to Westphalia goes through the ring. You don't have to be Mystic Meg to guess that there's interest from a Coolmore connection, and this time it's Alex Cole, racing manager to Fitri Hay who wins the bid at 190,000 guineas.

The Hays bought into Cape Blanco and Fame And Glory last season.

1430: Lot 406, consigned by Ballyhimikin Stud, is a Dalakhani colt who makes 140,000. Tom Goff of Blandford Bloodstock has been active today and he picks up the cheque for this son of Group Three winner Venturi.

1427: Bloodstock agent Liam Norris goes to 160,000 for a Teofilo filly who is out of a mare who has won with all five of her previous foals. That's Lot 405 of 508.

1413: At the other end of the scale a Teofilo filly out of a sister to Purple Moon fetches just 30,000 guineas, with Rabbah Bloodstock, responsible for friends and colleagues of Shekih Mohammed, coming out on top. Second dam Vanishing Prairie has done exceedingly well as a broodmare and this looks a good deal for her new owners.

1406: Wesley Ward, with Cromwell Bloodstock, buys Lot 394, the US-bred Ghostzapper colt for 65,000gns.

1400: A Kyllachy filly is bought by owner Saleh Al Homaizi, who was with his advisor Tony Nerses, for 210,000gns.

"She is very strong for a filly," Al Homaizi told www.tattersalls.com. "We like to buy the horses, get them home to the stud and then decide about a trainer."

Al Homaizi owned the filly's brother Nasri, who was Listed placed - and believes the younger sister compares well with him. "This filly is nicer than her brother was at the same age," said Al Homaizi.

1351: The average on day three is 110,853, which is lower than the first two days. Whether people have been a tad scared by the numbers on day one is debatable, as the big boys are still going for it, but we're yet to break 400,000 today. It will happen at some point though.

1325: Bidding reaches 270,000 for Lot 282, after the auctioneer pleads for the bidder to "show courage". I hope he wasn't talking to winning bidder John Magnier, who sees off Roger Varian, and the son of Montjeu heads back to Coolmore. The proven sire has not been represented at this sale by many but they always sell well.

This colt comes from a fine family, as his dam Time Over is a three-quarters sister to Time Away, who was third in the Nassau Stakes and is a grand-daughter of Time Charter, the five-time Group 1 winner and champion older mare in England in 1983.

1305: After a quiet half an hour, the ring springs into life for a Danehill Dancer colt. After plenty of competition, a swift move by Tom Goff of Blandford Bloodstock, their only one of the negotiation, seals the deal at 340,000 guineas.

That's the leading sale on day three of this book, and it's easy to see why. The full brother to Prix Daniel Wildenstein winner Tamazirte was consigned by Churchtown House Stud and is from the family of Cheveley Park winner Wannabe Grand.

Goff saw off underbidders Dr Jim Hay, and the HKJC to buy the colt for city trader Lawrie Inman. Inman is away in London today, but the horse's future trainer Michael Bell was present.

"He was not cheap!" joked Goff to www.tattersalls.com. "I thought he was an absolutely belting model for a Danehill Dancer. He was an exceptionally high quality horse and is a brother to a very high class filly. He filled the eye and has a good page."

1235: Next up is William Haggas, who has picked up a few at the sales but not always signing the cheque himself, looks determined to get Lot 360 and is successful with a bid of 135,000.

He's a Peintre Celebre colt consigned by Kirtlington Stud and is from a US family who have plenty of substance.

1233: A New Approach colt, out of the successful racemare Spotlight, goes to John Warren for 135,000 whilst Peter Doyle goes to 100,000 for a Duke Of Marmalade filly from the family of Staraway.

1227: "I need Willie Carson's box to see you", chastises the auctioneer as another bidder evades his gaze.

1222: A flurryof activity as the betting starts low for a half-sister to 1000 Guineas winner Speciosa but eventually ends up at 150k. It's Badgers Bloodstock who write the cheque for the daughter of Mount Nelson.

1217: An Exceed And Excel filly, consigned by Manor Farm Stud, is picked up by Angus Gold for Shadwell at a cost of 130,000.

It's a speedy pedigree and this half-sister to Mood Music is likely to be a more precocious type than most who have gone through the ring at this book.

1205: Crispin De Moubray leaps into action to get a Hurricane Run half-brother to Cavalryman for 180,000. I thought he might head to Europe where his siblings have done really well, but he's staying closer to home.

"He is going to be trained by Henry Cecil," de Moubray told www.tattersalls.com. "I thought he was a wonderful horse, I bred Hurricane Run and love his stock anyway - he is getting some good results.

"This colt has a page to be a Classic winner," he added.

1158: Another consigned by Newsells Park Stud, Lot 346, is a Dansili colt who fetches 260,000. His dam was a three-time winner, including at Listed level, and as a result he attracted the biggest sale of the day so far. He was bought by Charlie Gordon-Watson.

1148: A Duke Of Marmalade colt goes for the same price, this time to bloodstock agent Anthony Stroud.

1139: An early strike for Galileo, as Lot 340, is knocked down for 230,000 guineas.

Consigned by Newsells Park Stud, she's bought back by Gary Hadden.

She's a filly whose second dam Saganeca was Champion older mare in Italy in 1992, and out of a two time winner, this January foal wouldn't need to do much, if anything at all, on the racetrack to enhance her value further.

1130: Welcome along to the third and final day of the Tattersalls October Yearling Sale.

So far Galileo has dominated Book One, but will that trend continue today?

Who will have their cheque book out as the sales reaches its conclusion? Find out all of the latest news right here throughout the whole day.

RED RULES FOR EDDERY


First-season trainer Robert Eddery enjoyed a first winner at York when Red Quartet came out on top in a competitive race for the TSG Nursery Stakes.

The brother of former champion jockey Pat Eddery has now had five winners from a string of just 10 horses since taking out a licence in April.

Red Quartet (28-1) got home by a length from the 5-2 favourite Radio Gaga, with Deepsand third and Jessie's Spirit fourth.

"I thought he did well to win at Brighton as he was growing a bit," said Eddery.

"I wanted to bring him here as you have to win at these places to get noticed.

"I don't think he's got anything to prove this season and I need a good horse for next year."

Radio Gaga's jockey Graham Gibbons was banned two days (October 21 and 24) for careless riding.

Jet Away looked a different class to his rivals as he took off to win the Garbutt & Elliott Conditions Stakes.

He could be named the winner a long way as Tom Queally oozed confidence and allowed him to cruise into the lead.

The 9-4 favourite, trained by Henry Cecil, went on to score by nine lengths from the pace-setting Rasmy, with Treasury Devil third.

"We thought he might be a proper horse at the beginning of the year, but having started off very well when wining impressively at Lingfield he just lost his way a bit in the summer for whatever reason," said Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager to owner Khalid Abdullah.

"Prince Khalid has always had tremendous faith in this horse and he's been proved right.

"It's hard to say what the value of the form is.

"What we were pleased with was that he settled very well, travelled very well and stretched when he needed to - you can ask no more than that.

"He'll probably run again as he's had a fairly light season.

"We'll step him up to Listed or Group Three class."

Vainglory (9-1) got up in the dying strides to deny Extraterrestrial in the Acorn Web Offset Handicap.

The runners were strung out in the early stages as Snow Bay and Clockmaker set a furious gallop but the field started to bunch in the straight.

Laura Pike, who claims 5lb, made stealthy progress on David Simcock's seven-year-old to snatch the spoils by a neck, with Hot Rod Mamma a length and three-quarters away in third and Circumvent fourth.

Pike, 27, is apprenticed to the Simcock stable in her second stint as a jockey and was having her fifth winner of the year.

"I took three and a half years off. I got a bit heavy and wasn't as dedicated as I am now," she said.

"I got a job in an office which looked good on my CV. Then I went to Dubai for a holiday, I got the racing bug again and started riding again in 2009."

FAHEY: BATTLE ON FOR TOP SPOT AT YORK


It's been a busy week at the Tattersalls Sales and the trade is unbelievably strong. At the time of writing we've got four bought and I hope to add to that but it will be tough.

It's a big weekend for me with the final meeting of the season at York. That's my track and there's a real tussle on to finish top trainer for 2011 there. It's going to be tight but we'll be doing our best! Here's my guide to the Saturday team:

We run two in the opening Bet On Your Mobile With Coral E.B.F. 'Sakhee' Maiden Stakes with Paul (Hanagan) on Mickdaam. He's a horse we like but he disappointed at Goodwood last time when he didn't really handle the track. He's a nice horse and will be a better three-year-old but we'll run him again and see what happens. He'll spend the winter in Dubai before the owner decides whether he comes back to us or is campaigned by Mike De Kock next year.

Northern Jewel is another who will be better at three but we need to get another run into her. She ran better at Beverley the last day so we'll hope for the best.

Baldemar goes in the coral.co.uk Handicap and while it might be sharp enough for him over five furlongs, there aren't many races for these horses. We're ending up running them over the wrong trip to get races into them but he's in good order and we're happy with him. I hope he gets away with it but if I'd had a choice he'd have been running over six.

Robert The Painter is running into a bit of form ahead of the Green Tick For Better Odds At coral.co.uk Handicap. He's two pounds out of the handicap but is another suffering from a lack of opportunities. On his best form he'd have a chance.

We run three in the Coral Sprint Trophy including Castles In The Air. He was balloted out at Ascot last week and that's the race I wanted to go for as he likes the track.

He's been struggling to find top form but the handicapper has dropped him a few pounds. Six furlongs could be sharp enough for him but he's in good form at home and we'd be hopeful of a good run.

Paul is on Kaldoun Kingdom who was a little disappointing in the Ayr Gold Cup and then ran a little flat in a conditions race at Hamilton but is fresh which is always an advantage at this time of year. If the ground's not too quick he could run well.

Sioux Rising is at her limit off 96 and if she was placed we'd be delighted with her. It's a very open handicap and you could run it every week and get a different result. You just hope you get the rub of the green and win it with one of yours.

I think Paul has probably got it right in siding with Kaldoum Kingdom, he's the freshest horse, but it wouldn't have been an easy call.

Antigua Sunrise ran a good race at Haydock the other day but the handicapper has her to a T going into the Coldstream Guards Association Cup Handicap. Laura Barry did nothing wrong on her the other day so will take seven pounds off her and this mare is five or six pounds better at York than anywhere else. Hopefully she'll step up and run well.

Finally Flashman makes his debut in the 32Red Casino Median Auction Maiden Stakes at Wolverhampton. He's a big, backward horse who's going to make a three-year-old. He's a bit raw and needs the run to teach him what the job's about.

It's a tough day to find a nap so I'm going to switch to Friday and put up Ingleby Spirit who makes his debut over timber in the Edinburgh Woollen Mill Novices' Hurdle at Carlisle.

HANNON STRONG SUIT AT NEWMARKET


Newmarket 14:05 Burj Khalifa Challenge Stakes (Group 2)

STRONG SUIT had a breathing operation after being well beaten behind Frankel in the Greenham and has returned in great style, landing the Jersey Stakes and Lennox Stakes over this trip. He's probably capable of making further progress and this should be within his capabilities. Chachamaidee is another making great strides and produced her best run to date when just a length behind Sahpresa in the Group 1 Sun Chariot Stakes over a mile here a fortnight ago. Sir Henry Cecil's filly is probably even better at this trip and looks certain to go well. She holds both Rimth and Maqaasid on their run in the Oak Tree Stakes at Goodwood in July though the latter, who started favourite that day, had a poor run and can do better. Across The Rhine and Giant Sandman are penalised for Group 3 victories and will need to improve to get involved.

York 14:20 coral.co.uk Handicap

Haajes won this cavalry charge last year with Strike Up The Band behind and though he has plenty in his favour today, he won't want the ground to get any faster. He won at Doncaster last month, however, and is closely matched with the re-opposing Eland Ally, Lujeanie and Indian Trial, who filled the places on that occasion and can be given a chance here. The speedy Taurus Twins and Bronze Beau are others to consider, but a chance is taken on LIVING IT LARGE. Twice a winner already this season, all ground comes alike to Ed de Giles' sprinter and he's dropping in class and is only 1lb higher than his win at Epsom in July.

Newmarket 14:35 Emaar Middle Park Stakes (Group 1)

Family One, runner-up to the outstanding Dabirsim in the Prix Morny, had Frederick Engels around three lengths behind that day so the form looks very useful. The latter is a good yardstick as he finished a couple of lengths behind Lilbourne Lad and Reply in the Phoenix Stakes and neither of that pair could handle CASPAR NETSCHER in the Gimcrack. Alan McCabe's youngster probably didn't need to match that level of form in the Mill Reef at Newbury subsequently but confirmed his quality and is thriving with racing. Bapak Chinta would have been a strong fancy at York but had a slight setback. His debut victory over Frederick Engels and Norfolk Stakes success over Boomerang Bob stamped him as one to follow and today's extra furlong looks just what he requires so he's a big threat.

York 14:50 Green Tick For Better Odds At coral.co.uk Handicap

Sadeek's Song and Dick Doughtywylie have plenty of scope and will be of interest on their handicap debuts. The former makes more appeal than the other Godolphin representatives Roayh and Janood, while the latter made all to win at Chester a fortnight ago. However, ELECTRA STAR has the form in the book having already won a couple of handicaps and was far from disgraced in Listed company at Newmarket last time. Willie Haggas' filly can continue to progress back in this grade. Weapon Of Choice is another with a couple of wins under his belt and looks more worthy of trust than the inconsistent Oceanway.

Newmarket 15:10 Dubai Dewhurst Stakes (Group 1)

Aidan O'Brien had a very strong hand at the entry stage but POWER was always likely to be his representative as he's top of the pecking order among the Ballydoyle colts. The son of Oasis Dream never does things easily but his battling qualities and turn of foot should prove too much for these rivals though there are a couple of relatively unknowns in the contest. Bronterre easily outpointed the useful Justineo in a Listed contest at Goodwood and could be well up to this exalted level and, though Ektihaam will need to make further progress, he impressed at Doncaster and is worth his place in this line-up. Parish Hall was behind Power when the latter was surprisingly beaten in the Phoenix Stakes but that wasn't his running and he did much better when runner-up to Dragon Pulse in the Futurity. Spiritual Star landed his maiden in a hack canter, as did Most Improved, but much more is needed as they step up to the highest level.

York 15:25 coral.co.uk Rockingham Stakes (Listed)

Bannock was big disappointment in last week's Two-Year-Old Trophy at Redcar though he'd reportedly missed some work and has the best proven form if back on song. Roger Sez had Miss Lahar and Luv U Forever well behind when winning a Group 3 at Ayr three weeks ago, but that was such an improvement on her previous form that it could be she needs testing ground to show her best. A chance is taken on SWISS SPIRIT, who won his maiden over C&D in June and looked in need of the outing in the Mill Reef at Newbury last time on his return from a three-month break. Desert Gazelle and Semayyel both have a bit to find on their return to sprinting.

Newmarket 15:50 Betfred Cesarewitch (Heritage Handicap)

Despite a massive 14lb rise for his latest success, Rainforest Magic is a potential blot on the handicap and the only doubt is the going as it was good ground when he scored twice at the Galway Festival. If the rains arrive, he's the one to be on but with the ground currently fast is taken on with COSIMO DE MEDICI, whose connections were delighted he picked up a penalty for landing the trial for this last month as it got him into the handicap. He looks on the upgrade and, though this is a stiffer task, should be in the firing-line at the finish. Never Can Tell, Kazbow and Colour Vision are all very closely matched on recent Chester form though that track bears absolutely no resemblance to this. La Estrella did her winning on Fibresand but like many of these is well weighted with Veiled on their run in the Ascot Stakes and any one of half-a-dozen could reverse the form with the winner, especially runner-up Ermyn Lodge on the revised terms. Keys is another progressive stayer with a real chance while Beyond looks as though he's been laid out for this by the Pipe yard who are no strangers to success in the event.

York 16:05 Coral Sprint Trophy Handicap

Nocturnal Affair beat the re-opposing Ancient Cross less than a length at Doncaster last month and that pair are closely matched here, while the revitalised Internationaldebut landed a hat-trick last month, though he's now 10lb higher than his latest win in a handicap. Son Of The Cat came out just ahead of Colonel Mak when third in the Ayr Gold Cup three weeks ago and will appreciate today's faster ground, but the tentative vote in such a competitive sprint goes to the progressive SIRIUS PROSPECT. He landed a double last month, beating Lutine Bell and Castles In The Air in the process, and Dean Ivory's gelding is taken to go in again despite a 7lb higher mark. Addictive Dream anda Racy are others to consider.

EKTIHAAM READY FOR DEWHURST TEST


Roger Varian's Ektihaam bids to show he is as good as his home reputation suggests when he takes a big step up in class in the Dubai Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket.

The youngster certainly looked the real deal when winning a typically warm Newbury maiden on his racecourse debut and he then ran away with the same conditions race at Doncaster that the mighty Frankel had won 12 months earlier.

He will face a far sterner test this weekend with proven Group One winner Power in the line-up but Angus Gold, racing manager for owner Hamdan Al Maktoum, believes the colt is ready to test his powers at the highest level.

"He's done very well so far and we'll see whether he's good enough. It's the same situation for a lot of them and there is no better race to find out," said Gold.

"He's potentially a very nice horse and a big, scopey individual who is very much one for next year.

"But he's got plenty of talent and if he could run well in a Dewhurst it would be a bonus.

"Power is a Group One winner and an established horse and Bronterre has won a Listed race.

"They are all potentially nice horses and we'll see who makes the leap forward.

"Ektihaam is a great big horse and I'm sure if we got some rain overnight that is not going to inconvenience him.

"I'm not saying he needs it easy but he is a big galloping horse and probably wouldn't want it too firm."

Brian Meehan believes Most Improved is of a similar ilk to his other classy juveniles of recent years as he puts his credentials on the line in tomorrow's Dubai Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket.

Meehan has been lucky enough to handle some speedy youngsters like 2008 Racing Post Trophy first and third Crowded House and Skanky Biscuit and 2007 Dewhurst runner-up Fast Company.

With those performances not too long ago, Meehan should have a good idea of what it takes to win the big two-year-old races at the end of the season.

Having just been touched off on his debut at Newmarket, Most Improved then bolted up by five lengths back at Headquarters and the runner-up has since won by a yawning 10-length margin.

"He was so much more effective the second day, and we got a real good look at him," Meehan told the Independent.

"He's a lovely, progressive colt with a wonderful temperament and takes everything in his stride.

"The form is working out great, his work since has been very good, and he reminds me a lot of other good horses we've taken the same kind of route - the likes of Fast Company and Crowded House."

A big two-year-old race would not be the same without a representative from the Richard Hannon yard and he runs two, Bronterre and Trumpet Major.

Bronterre is unbeaten after winning a Salisbury maiden and a Listed event at Goodwood while Trumpet Major landed the Champagne Stakes at Doncaster, beating the reopposing Red Duke.

"We run Bronterre (Richard Hughes) and Trumpet Major (Johnny Murtagh) in the Dewhurst Stakes and, though it looks a hot renewal, I could not be happier with them," said Hannon.

"Sure, this is a big jump up in class for Bronterre, but he could not have been more impressive when winning his Listed race at Goodwood by five lengths and though he is just starting to go in his coat, he moved beautifully for Hughesie in a spin up the all-weather at Herridge on Tuesday and seems at the top of his game.

"Trumpet Major showed that his Sandown form was all wrong when he won the Group Two Champagne Stakes at Doncaster and while we had him entered in what looked a soft Group One in Italy on Sunday, his owner, John Manley, was keen to run here.

"With the 'Major' rated a pound above Bronterre, he is fully entitled to take his chance," he told his website.

HIGH HOPES FOR BAPAK CHINTA


Kevin Ryan returns to the scene of his first major victory as he unleashes Bapak Chinta in Saturday's Emaar Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket.

It was in this race in 2005 that Amadeus Wolf gave the Hambleton-based trainer a breakthrough Group One, which was quickly followed in the same season by Palace Episode in the Racing Post Trophy.

Bapak Chinta started his career in what could have appeared a moderate maiden at Hamilton but it turned out to be an outstanding one, as he beat subsequent Royal Ascot winner Frederick Engels by three lengths.

Ryan's colt went on to Royal success in the Norfolk Stakes but has not been seen since, having knocked himself during light exercise when being prepared for the Nunthorpe at York.

"He's very well and will love the ground. He didn't miss too much time out and he goes into the race in great form," said Ryan.

Caspar Netscher and Alan McCabe attempt to continue what has already been an unforgettable season.

The juvenile has run eight times so far, but broke what was becoming a frustrating run of placed efforts when capturing the Gimcrack Stakes at York.

Newbury's Mill Reef Stakes followed and now the final leap to Group One level awaits.

"He looks well, he's been keeping to his old routine, and there's no difference now from when he won the Gimcrack and Mill Reef," said McCabe.

"We were concerned about the rain before the Gimcrack but Robert (Winston) said he did it very easy that day and he held his form in the Mill Reef.

"We haven't changed anything, we keep him to his routine and he's the same, if not better than he has been all year."

Family One, trained by former jockey Yann Barberot, has won four times this season including the Prix Robert Papin at Maisons-Laffitte.

He was beaten three lengths into second by Dabirsim last time in the Prix Morny, with the winner going on to take the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp last weekend.

Champion trainer Richard Hannon goes for more glory with Lilbourne Lad, who finished just over two lengths behind Caspar Netscher at York.

"We have supplemented Lilbourne Lad for the Middle Park, and he is such a tough horse that it would be no surprise if he finished in the three," the trainer told www.richardhannonracing.tv.

"He is actually rated 111, so is officially our second best two-year-old colt at the moment, behind only Harbour Watch, and, though Caspar Netscher beat us fair and square in the Gimcrack, we have a 3lb pull, so he deserves another shot at a Group One."

Ed Dunlop's Burwaaz was fourth to Bapak Chinta in the Norfolk Stakes, third in the Gimcrack and second to Requinto in both the Flying Childers and Molecomb Stakes.

Angus Gold, racing manager to owner Hamdan Al Maktoum, said: "He's been knocking on the door and my own feeling is that we've probably made a bit of a mistake with the horse running him over five furlongs because he has plenty of speed.

"I personally think now that he's a horse who would be better given a bit of a chance and finishing over six furlongs.

"He's the sort of horse who one day is going to win a big race - whether it's tomorrow, I don't know."

George Margarson runs Rebellious Guest, the mount of Tom Queally.

"He's won two of his three starts, the only blip coming in the Coventry Stakes, which I think came a bit too soon for him, and we did think there was a risk of that," the jockey told his Racing UK blog.

"He won his last race at Windsor decisively and, while this is a massive jump in class, we think he is ready for the challenge.

"He's a colt who is highly rated by George and I've ridden him in his work recently and he feels like a good sort to me, but we'll all be wiser after the event."

QUEALLY LOOKING TO ROCK ON ALSINDI


Tom Queally believes Alsindi has every chance of keeping her unbeaten record intact in the vision.ae Rockfel Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

Clive Brittain's daughter of Acclamation overcame a tardy start to make a winning debut at Yarmouth in August and Queally took over in the saddle to guide her to victory in the Oh So Sharp Stakes over course and distance last time out.

"I'm hopeful of a bold show from Alsindi. I'm getting quite a few rides from Clive now Philip Robinson has retired and he is a lovely man to ride for with a wealth of experience," the jockey said in his column on www.racinguk.com.

"Alsindi won the Oh So Sharp Stakes at Newmarket last time in good style and stuck to her guns well coming up the hill.

"Clive rates her, her course and distance winning form will help and she has as good a chance as any."

CASPAR CAN GHOST HOME IN MIDDLE PARK


- Four of the last 10 favourites have been successful.
- All of the last 10 winners won their preceding start.
- Five of the last 10 winners were unbeaten, only one had been beaten more than twice.
- All of the last 10 winners had won over six furlongs.
- Seven of the last 10 winners made their debut no earlier than June.
- Seven of the last 10 winners were successful on debut.
- Nine of the last 10 winners had won in Listed company or higher.

Summary

The Prix Morny in which Family One was second to Dabirsim has proved the best guide to the race with four recent winners completing the double whilst there have been two apiece from each of the Mill Reef Stakes and the Gimcrack (both won by Caspar Netscher). In the absence of the Morny winner, Family One is the clear favourite but all of the last 10 winners were successful on their previous outing which only a quarter of the field can boast. In keeping with most recent winners Rebellious Guest didn't debut until June whereas Reply was out in April and Bapak Chinta and Caspar Netscher in May. Neither Rebellious Guest nor Reply have any black type winning form to their name and only Oasis Dream in the last decade has defied that statistic. Bapak Chinta's two wins have been over five whereas all of the previous 10 winners have had winning form over six furlongs which leaves CASPAR NETSCHER who has had more starts than any recent winner with only Dark Angel coming close with seven and the similarities with Barry Hills' winner don't stop there as Dark Angel had been beaten on four occasions prior to winning here.

PIPE BIDS TO EMULATE HIS FATHER



David Pipe has three chances to enjoy a major boost ahead of the imminent arrival of the National Hunt season in Saturday's Betfred Cesarewitch at Newmarket.

Jump trainers regularly have success over the two and a quarter miles of this famous handicap, with Nicky Henderson as well as Pipe's father Martin striking on several occasions in the not too distant past.

Big Occasion was a winner for Aidan O'Brien last year and Pipe has made the interesting decision to book O'Brien's son Joseph for the mount.

William Buick is aboard the Robin Geffen-owned Beyond, seemingly the leading hope for the yard after making a winning debut for the stable at Sandown in July.

While Tasheba, a former Henderson inmate who has run over hurdles for Pipe, is the mount of Kieran O'Neill.

"Big Occasion ran an OK race (at Newmarket on his first run for the stable) and I think he'll improve for the run," said Pipe.

"We go on Saturday with a lot of weight and we would appreciate some more rain really - the softer the better for him.

"It's not going to be ideal for him but it's a big race and we've got Joseph O'Brien on board, who has won on him before. It's worth taking our chance.

"He's an out and out galloper and the quicker they go on Saturday the better.

"Beyond is still at the right end of the handicap and he won nicely for us at Sandown over a mile and six (furlongs).

"This has always been the long-term plan, he'll love the ground and he's in good form at home. Hopefully he has a good chance."

Cosimo de Medici has taken trainer Hughie Morrison by surprise but has managed to become a major contender after taking last month's Cesarewitch Trial in comfortable fashion over the course and distance.

He carries a 4lb penalty for the win.

"Everything is fine with him, he worked well on Tuesday and he's a horse who has done nothing but improve all season," said Morrison.

"We put him in the race thinking he would never get in, but then he won at Newmarket in August.

"We then thought we'd better have a go at the Cesarewitch Trial and he's somehow managed to win again.

"He's had a fantastic year already and I suppose he's got to stop improving some time. It would probably be too much to ask for him to win again, but we'll have a go and see what happens.

"He's won on soft ground and he's won on fast ground, so that shouldn't be an issue."

Tony Martin, successful with Leg Spinner in 2007, is always treated with respect by the bookmakers when he sends runners across the Irish Sea.

Buy Back Bob, formerly trained by Ger Lyons, was third on his first start for the yard over hurdles at Cork and had a pipe-opener over a mile at Gowran last month.

"Hopefully he's going there with a chance. He ran a nice race over at Cork in the summer and we gave him a spin at Gowran the other day," said Martin.

"He should come on for that run and we'll see if he gets the trip on the day. He should handle the ground all right."

Martin's compatriot Pat Phelan, who is based in Epsom, has high hopes for his runner Ermyn Lodge.

All his outings have been at Ascot this season and he was fourth at the Shergar Cup last time.

"He has had two targets all year - Royal Ascot and this race," said Phelan.

"He ran very well at Ascot (Ascot Stakes). He was second to Veiled who is favourite for Saturday and when you consider we're 25-1, I think that's value for money.

"He had a racecourse gallop at Kempton the other morning which went very well and thankfully the weights have gone up enough to allow Ian Mongan to ride.

"We haven't run since August but I was fairly confident the mark he had would get him so I kept him fresh and he's ready to go.

"It's always difficult to win a race like the Cesarewitch from the front but he nearly did it at Royal Ascot and this is two furlongs shorter, so we'll see.

"He loves fast ground - the faster the better."

Some of the community's other smaller trainers are also looking for a major prize on the Rowley Mile.

Don Cantillon has been monitoring the ground at his local course for La Estrella, who won six times in a row in low-grade contests at Southwell and was sixth at Goodwood on September 21.

"His run at Goodwood last time is best forgotten because the ground was too soft," explained Cantillon.

"The plan had been to bounce him out and sit handy but the going went against us and I didn't want to risk him being up with the pace and getting tired, so we held him up instead.

"Everything is crossed regarding the ground, because we wouldn't want it too fast. I rode the whole course on my bike with a stick and a dog - they have done their best with the watering and there is a nice grass covering."

Worcestershire trainer James Evans is represented by Ascot Stakes third Phoenix Flight.

"He has been drawn in 31 which means he will be racing wide until the right hand turn into the straight. He will have to drop in from there and hopefully get a clear run when the race hots up," he told www.hjamesevans.co.uk.

"The forecast favourite is Veiled, who beat Phoenix Flight by just under three lengths at Royal Ascot, and we now have a 5lb pull in the weights so it should be close between the two.

"However I am slightly concerned that Phoenix Flight did not run that well when last at HQ (in 2009).

"All his wins have been on flat tracks such as Newbury, Market Rasen and on the all weather at Kempton."

GOLD FORESEES BIG MAQ RUN


Connections of Maqaasid are confident the filly is ready to bounce back in the Burj Khalifa Challenge Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

John Gosden's three-year-old was among the top rank of juvenile fillies last year and she returned with highly creditable efforts in the Nell Gwyn Stakes and the 1000 Guineas at this track.

She has been largely disappointing in three starts since but Angus Gold, racing manager for owner Hamdan Al Maktoum, reports confidence from the camp.

"I haven't seen her for a long time but John Gosden tells me that from what he is seeing at home, she has come right back to her best," said Gold.

"She obviously lost her way a bit in the middle of the summer and, for whatever reason, she wasn't quite bouncing.

"She seemed to be fine but ran a couple of very dull races.

"As long as that's not in her mind, John says physically and mentally she seems to be really good at the moment.

"Let's hope that she comes back and shows her best form."

Gosden added: "She has been working very nicely at home and I think seven furlongs is her optimum trip.

"She had a good spring, things went off a bit in the summer, but hopefully she will have a good autumn."

Lennox Stakes winner Strong Suit heads the betting and Richard Hannon is optimistic he can come out on top.

"Strong Suit is a worthy favourite for the Challenge Stakes," he told his website, www.richardhannonracing.tv.

"He seems a different horse since that wind operation and worked very well at Everleigh on Sunday.

"There is not a lot of rain forecast, so we should get our favoured fast ground, and this seven furlongs is his ideal trip.

"He has the penalty for winning the Lennox Stakes at Goodwood, but he has thrived for his break and his new owners (Pearl Bloodstock) are keen to take him to the Breeders' Cup, so he would need to be winning this to justify the trip."

(reopens) Tom Queally rides Chachamaidee for his boss Sir Henry Cecil and is full of confidence following the filly's fine second in the Sun Chariot Stakes a fortnight ago.

"I would give Chachamaidee a big chance," Queally said in his column on www.racinguk.com.

"She ran another fantastic race to come second in the Sun Chariot Stakes, and drops in grade here as well as distance, and I think the seven furlongs will suit.

"Strong Suit looks the one to beat, but I wouldn't swap mine for him or any other horse in the race."

PUTRA TAKES AIM AT DARLEY STAKES


Roger Varian is confident Sri Putra can record a deserved first success of the campaign in the Darley Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

The five-year-old finished third behind Rewilding and So You Think in the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot, and occupied the same position in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.

He was disappointing in lesser company at Newbury last time, but Varian is expecting a better performance this weekend.

"Sri Putra is in great form. The ground was a bit sticky for him at Newbury last time and he perhaps needed the run as he'd been off the track a while," said the Newmarket handler.

"The fast ground will suit and we're very hopeful of a good run."

Sri Putra's rivals include classy Italian raider Bubble Chic and Chris Wall's stable stalwart Premio Loco.

NOCTURNAL READY FOR YORK AFFAIR


Portland winner Nocturnal Affair goes for a second sprint handicap win in Yorkshire when he lines up for the Coral Sprint Trophy at York on Saturday.

The Irish raider delivered the goods in style at Doncaster last month and County Tipperary trainer David Marnane has high hopes of another successful mission on the Knavesmire.

The South African import was only having his second run since joining Marnane via a spell in Dubai, so his new handler is hoping there is still more to come from the five-year-old.

"We had planned to keep him for a Listed race a Dundalk, but it's a good pot so it's worth going for," said Marnane.

"He only went up 4lb and I thought he idled a little bit in front at Doncaster that day.

"He's in great form, he travelled over really well.

"He's got a good enough draw (seven) - the speed horses seem to be around us - so we've got our fingers crossed.

"Hopefully he's still got some improvement in him. It was only his second race for us at Doncaster and he's still pretty unexposed at this sort of trip."

The in-form Internationaldebut bids to complete a four-timer within the space of five weeks.

Since striking over this course and distance, Paul Midgley's six-year-old stalwart has gone on to win at Doncaster and Beverley.

"He's in good form and everything has gone to plan since he ran at Beverley," said the North Yorkshire trainer.

"He's in good order so it's a case of fingers crossed."

Brian Gubby is delighted Silvestre de Sousa is aboard Son Of A Cat again after steering the five-year-old into a creditable third place in the Ayr Gold Cup when the going was too testing.

"The ground was just a little bit too heavy for him at Ayr but he ran a blinder," said the Surrey owner-trainer.

"Silvestre rode him in Scotland and is on him again. He liked him when he finished second behind him at Goodwood.

"He said there was no way he was going to catch him that day (on Confessional) so his agent rang for the ride at Ayr.

"He's well, but it is a worry this time of year as you never know if they've gone over the top until they get there.

"He's gone up there the day before as he's not the best of travellers and we're looking forward to a good run."

Trainer Jonathan Portman is hoping Joe Packet will show no ill effects from his good effort last Saturday when he was fifth to Pastoral Player in a valuable handicap over seven furlongs.

"He seems to have come out of his race last weekend well. I know it's a bit soon but his season is coming to an end, so we thought we'd give it a go," said the Berkshire trainer.

"He has a lot of weight to carry and I think six and a half furlongs is probably his best trip on the ground he's going to get.

"He probably would have got the seven at Ascot if we'd been able to cover him up a bit more, but he was always just a bit too handy to get that trip.

"He still ran a cracker."

VARIAN LAUNCHES DUAL RAID


Roger Varian launches a dual assault on Dubai Future Champions Day at Newmarket on Saturday with both Ektihaam and Sri Putra aiming to continue their handler's excellent first season as a trainer.

Ektihaam lines up in the £317,000 Group One Dubai Dewhurst Stakes and takes a step up in class after winning his two starts to date.

Varian commented: "Ektihaam has done nothing wrong on the track so far. "He's a horse we like and he has been working well at home, but on official ratings he has a big jump to make."

Sri Putra, who contests the Group Three £50,000 Darley Stakes, was third in the Group One Prince Of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot in June and the Group One Coral-Eclipse at Sandown the following month.

The five-year-old, a Group Two winner over 10 furlongs at Deauville in 2009, bids to bounce back to his best after coming home fifth in the Arc trial at Newbury last time.

Varian continued: "Sri Putra is in great form. The ground was a bit sticky for him at Newbury last time and he perhaps needed the run as he'd been off the track a while. The fast ground will suit and we're very hopeful of a good run."

CUE LINED UP FOR CHASING BOW


Joe Tizzard can hardly wait to partner Cue Card as he makes his fencing debut in a fascinating Bet At bluesq.com On Your Mobile Novices' Chase at Chepstow.

The brilliant 2010 Champion Bumper winner won twice from five starts over hurdles and ran with plenty of credit when second behind Menorah in the International Hurdle at Cheltenham.

He was again far from disgraced on his final two starts in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle and in a Grade One at Aintree.

Among his three rivals this weekend is the Paul Nicholls-trained Silviniaco Conti, just one place behind Cue Card in the International.

Tizzard is looking forward to renewing rivalry.

"He's in cracking form and this is what we've been looking forward to doing with him right from the first day we had him," said Tizzard.

"He's schooled ever so well at home. There's only four runners but it's a competitive little race.

"We've beaten Silviniaco Conti before and we're looking forward to taking him on again tomorrow."

DEWHURST TRENDS POINT TO RED DUKE


- Nine of the last 10 winners finished in the first three on their preceding start; seven were succesful.
- Five of the last 10 winners were unbeaten.
- Seven of the last 10 winners had already won a race at Group Three or above (three had won a Group One) and two of the exceptions had been placed in a Group One.
- Eight of the last 10 winners had won over seven furlongs or beyond.
- Three favourites have been successful but four winners have been returned between 20-1 & 33s.
- Eight of the last 10 winners made their debut after April.
- Nine of the last 10 winners had raced at least three times.
- Nine of the last 10 winners ran in a Group race on their preceding start, the exception ran in a sales race.
- Seven of the last 10 winners made a successful debut, those that were beaten made their debuts in April and May over 5 and 6 furlongs.

Summary

A couple of surprise results over the years and this year's field has a slightly unusual look to it in that very few of the runners are by sires renowned for imparting stamina; sons of Galileo have provided three of the last five winners but he has no representative in the nine runners. Beethoven (33-1) and Intense Focus (20-1) were both placed in Group One company and had had eight and nine starts whilst Group Three winner Milk It Mick (33-1) had had 11 starts.

Exciting pair Bronterre and Ektihaam fall down on a number of key trends as do Spiritual Star and Most Improved whilst Parish Hall has yet to win over seven furlongs although neither had Jim Bolger's Intense Focus nor Beethoven but both had been placed at the highest level unlike the Teofilo colt.

That just leaves National Stakes winner Power and the one-two from the Champagne Stakes and there's nothing to choose between the three of them on the stats whilst both races have provided two winners apiece, with New Approach and Teofilo successful at the Curragh and Rock Of Gibraltar and Milk It Mick beaten on Town Moor. Power is the clear form pick but it may be worth taking a chance that RED DUKE can emulate the latter pair.

Little has gone right for John Quinn's colt on his last two starts and he may be able to prove himself better than the bare form whilst the progeny of first season sire Hard Spun (top-class between 7 & 10f) appear to stay well which brings us back to where we came in.

Oasis Dream (Power's sire) has of course sired winners at all distances but those that stay well are often from stouter distaff families than the National Stakes winner so Power could just be worth taking on whilst it's also worth noting that the four winning favourites were all sent off at 6-4 or shorter.

SENTRY READY FOR CES DUTY


- Winners have been aged 3, 4 (two), 5, 6 (three), 7, 8 and 11.
- Winners have carried between 7-13 and 9-8 with five between 7-13 and 8-8.
- Winners have been rated between 83 and 104 with five between 92 and 98.
- Seven winners had been drawn between 1 & 10 with five between 1 & 4.
- Nine winners were returned between 9-2 and 16-1 with two favourites successful.
- Seven winners finished in the first four on their previous outing under either code.
- Seven winners had won a class 3 handicap or above over 1m 6f - the last four had all won a class 2 handicap over 2 miles.
- Nine winners had raced between 2 and 7 times during the current season; none had raced more.
- Six winners had failed to win a race during the current season.
- Nine winners had won a race with a field of 14 runners or more (under either code).

Miscellaneous

Five renewals have gone to trainer's more readily associated with NH racing including all three winners that hadn't previously scored over two miles on the Flat whilst three winners have been apprentice ridden.

Two of the last three winners had previously run in the Cesarewitch (finishing 2nd and 7th) whilst all of the last three winners had contested the Brown Jack Stakes at Ascot (won by Keys) earlier in the season where they finished 2/1/5.

Three winners had run in the Ascot Stakes and four in the Northumberland Plate.

Summary

An emerging trend has been winning form in a class two handicap over two miles with five of the last six having done so and the exception, Detroit City, was placed in a Listed race over a mile seven before being sold to go hurdling. He was also the only winner not to have raced during the current Flat season having been absent since winning a Grade One hurdle at Aintree in April.

A more constant trend has been the benefit of a low (previously high) draw although the Cambridgeshire proved how quickly a herd-like mentality can erode any advantage on that front.

Only eight runners in the field boast winning form at the requisite level and, of those, five (Cosimo De Medici, Dayia, Dazinski, Keys, Veiled) have an historically bad draw to overcome.

Fortune has favoured SENTRY DUTY, Palomar and Bernie The Bolt on that score whilst the first two named also ran in the race 12 months ago as had two of the three previous winners including the 11 year old Caracciola who was trained, like Sentry Duty, by Nicky Henderson. As well as being well drawn, the nine year old hails from the most successful rating band and has winning form in a large field unlike Andrew Balding's runner whilst he looks certain to be sent off at around the same price as a 'typical' Ces winner unlike the other pair although none of the three can boast a top-four finish on their latest start.

Keys has form in a large field and comes straight from the Ascot handicap that all of the last three winners have contested (Colour Vision, L Frank Baum and Dayia were behind) but he has to overcome a lack of experience as well as his high draw. The trends-busting Darley Sun besides, the other nine winners had raced at least 13 times and Roger Charlton's gelding has had just the eight starts under both codes and that's two fewer than David Simcock's charge.

WINTERS WARMED BY BILL FORM


Michael Winters is confident For Bill will run her usual game race under top weight in the ladbrokes.com Munster National at Limerick on Sunday.

The eight-year-old has won nine of her 15 starts under Rules, emerging triumphant at Grade Three level over both hurdles and fences.

She returned from a five-month break to finish second to Finger Onthe Pulse at Listowel last month and Winters does not expect the step up to three miles to be a problem.

"We're delighted to have a runner in such a nice race at this stage of the year and I think the weather has come right for her," said Winters.

"It might not be her favourite track as she might be slightly better going left-handed, but she looks in great form and I'd say we'll get a great run from her.

"We were delighted with her last run in Listowel. She made a mistake at the second fence and Paul (Carberry) did a great job of looking after her after that.

"We were delighted with the way she came home and she has been very sound since.

"She hasn't run over three miles before under Rules, but she has won a point-to-point and you would think it will suit.

"I hope she can run very well but the main thing is she comes home in one piece."

Eric McNamara's Faltering Fullback returned from well over a year on the sidelines with a fine second over hurdles at Listowel recently, giving the trainer confidence ahead of Sunday's valuable prize.

"He has given us plenty of problems in the past, but he seems to be over all of them and he's in particularly good form at the moment," said McNamara.

"He ran very well at Listowel and seems to have come out of it well.

"That was his first run in a long time and you'd like to think he'll improve on that.

"He's a decent horse who will like the trip and love the ground, so we're giving him a good each-way chance."

Other major contenders include the Charles Byrnes-trained Kerry National runner-up Bideford Legend, Grade One-winning hurdler Muirhead and Uncle Junior from the Willie Mullins yard.

BENNY HEADS TO CHELTENHAM


Benny Be Good is set to bid to complete a four-timer in the £25,000 Cheltenhamcollection.co.uk Handicap Chase on Saturday week.

The extended three-mile contest is one of the highlights of Cheltenham's opening two-day meeting of the 2011/2012 season, which commences on Friday, October 14th.

Keith Reveley's charge posted the biggest win of his career when forging clear of his rivals for a two-length success over an extended two and three quarter miles at Market Rasen on September 24th.

The eight-year-old had previously posted a pair of comfortable victories at Sedgefield in April, including a seven-length victory over Grade One winning-hurdler Hollo Ladies in a two and a half mile handicap chase.

Reveley revealed: "The plan is for Benny Be Good to run in the Cheltenhamcollection.co.uk Handicap Chase. He has the option of the ZEturf.com Handicap Chase (2m 4f) on the same card but he galloped right the way to the line at Market Rasen and that trip might be a bit sharp for him.

"He's rated 150 now but he has looked like an improving horse on his latest three starts - he has travelled well and jumped well. "I thought that Nicky Richards' horse (Noble Alan) would have probably won at Market Rasen but Benny Be Good galloped strongly all the way to the line and you would have to hope that he might improve a bit more.

"He ran on soft ground right the way through the winter, which is why he probably wasn't at his best, but we have always thought of him as a good ground horse. He's going to have top-weight but hopefully he can find a good rhythm and run well."

A seven-race card on the second day of The Showcase also includes the £25,000 ZEturf.com Handicap Chase (2.40pm), the £25,000 Masterson Holdings Hurdle (3.15pm), run over an extended two miles, and the £20,000 Royal Gloucestershire Hussars Novices' Chase (4.55pm).

Friday's action is headed by the extended three-mile £17,000 Cheltenham Racecourse iPhone App Novices' Chase (3.55pm), while the £14,000 Neptune Investment Management Novices' Hurdle (2.10pm), over two miles and five furlongs, and the the three-mile £14,000 Pertemps Handicap Hurdle (3.20pm) also feature among the seven races.

PENROSE CALLS FOR GREATER UNITY


John Penrose, Minister for horse racing and betting, urged "racing and gambling to be facing in the same direction" to secure the future of the sport with a revised or abolished levy on bets.

Speaking at the inaugural Leaders in Racing conference, held alongside the Leaders in Football event at Chelsea Football Club, he warned: "Racing is a wonderful product at the heart of our sporting and cultural heritage and an important part of our economy - but its underpinnings are fraying at the ends, and it's causing a great deal of concern.

"Racing and gambling should be symbiotic in its discussions to redesign the levy system, or an alternative, for the 21st century, and even for the 22nd and 23rd centuries.

"A large amount of betting has moved off-shore, which is a logical and commercial reaction from bookmakers, but from racing's point of view it is a disaster.

"Racing and gambling need to negotiate like two suppliers, such as Proctor and Gamble negotiate with Tesco.

"When politicians get involved it can be a kiss of death, so it's up to racing and gambling to work together, with a little bit of prodding and pushing from me."

The conference attracted 200 senior leaders of the racing industry from over 20 countries around the globe to debate the business of horseracing.

British Horseracing Authority chairman Paul Roy echoed Penrose's views and said he was "hopeful" of a proper commercial arrangement between the two parties and that a "pre-consultation group had already held a handful of meetings".

International speakers from the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Singapore Turf Club, Australia's Tabcorp, South Africa's Phumelela, and the US's Philadelphia Park and Parx Casino debated racing's declining market share of global gambling and the different business and betting models around the globe.

Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, chief executive of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, raised four issues of concern - competition, brand perception, product supply and customer experience - and how racing jurisdictions need to be "vertically integrated" like Hong Kong.

Kim Heng Teo, of the Singapore Turf Club, echoed many speakers' views, by stressing the need to "bring out the emotive connection between the customer and the sport itself", rather than just betting.

Tabcorp's Paul Cross, in the session, Racing for the Punter, said that packaging all the UK and Irish races for international distribution through GBI Racing "was one of the best things UK racing has done."

UK Jockey Club Group CEO Simon Bazalgette painted an optimistic future for the sport in the UK, saying: "We've been doing some great things such as Racing for Change and the British Champions Series. Looking ahead to British Champions Day, it looks like we are going to have the best race day in the world.

"TV audiences are up 30% and 40%, attendances are up 5% and 6%. We are making progress and people want to get involved with racing more. You will see Channel 4 wanting to do more, and ITV, Channel 5 and other broadcasters are wanting to get involved as we have a great story to tell."

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