That was an eventful week-end of racing. Power won the Irish 2000 Guineas proving that he did not handle the sloppy conditions in the English version. The field was within a few lengths on the good ground which means that there isn't much of a gap between the milers of this generation. If they meet again, the standings might very well be different. But certainly the biggest satisfaction of this blog is to have pinpointed long-shot Reply, who came out 3rd at odds of 25/1. A fantastic each-way that was for those that had the same confidence on supposedly weakest string of the Ballydoyle contingent.
Trumpet Major flopped but like the rest, wasn't disgraced, which means that none of them should be discarded in their future races. The eye-catcher of the race was certainly Born To Sea, who looked lively in the closing stages and the son of Urban Sea looks set to be on the progressive path. Definitely something worthy of note for future reference.
The female equivalent went to Samitar, a first Classic for the Mick Channon stable, and a first Classic for her sire Rock of Gibraltar. The son of Danehill has shown renewed promised as a sire from the past year, and this vital win could be the turning point of his stud career.
On the same card, So You Think started his last European campaign by easily disposing of an average field to win the Tattersalls Gold Cup. He cantered easily on-the-bridle and seems to have none of his ability. The only other runner of note was Famous Name, who's a Group 2 horse really. I just hope O'Brien gets it right this year with the best son of High Chaparral so that he can truly gets to show his steel.
French racing was also the subject of some momentous races, highlighted by the winning return of Golden Lilac, the Galileo filly that took the 3-year old honours last year. She had been sidelined since her only defeat and she seems to have overcome the injury problems that made her miss the second half of last year. By beating Cirrus des Aigles and Planteur fair and square, she proved she could be the one to beat in the important middle-distance races in Europe this year. The Arc looks right up her alley at this point and Andre Fabre, her conditioner, is a master planner for that race.
Lastly, Deep Brillante won the Japanese Oaks by the touch of a short head. Yet another Classic winner for Deep Impact, whose daughters in particular are really rocking this year.
This week is all about the lead-up to the Derby; It seems impossible to oppose Camelot at this stage, the son of Montjeu looks to prolong the sublime winning record of his sire in England's most prestigious race.
Showing posts with label Born To Sea. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Born To Sea. Show all posts
Monday, May 28, 2012
Friday, May 25, 2012
Irish 2000 Guineas
All 11 entries stood their ground for the Irish 2000 Guineas on Saturday. I believe the winner will come from this pack, in no particular order of preference; Born To Sea, Hermival, Parish Hall, Power, Reply, Takar and Trumpet Major. The others are simply not of the same class as the above.
Born To Sea disappointed in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket. Connections can point to the soft ground but I think he's more of a sprinter-type, and his pedigree confirms that, being by Invincible Spirit. Over the course of the year, it could be that can get a mile against seasoned milers, but this race might possibly come a little too soon for him after his flop a few weeks back. I think he can run a Place at best.
Hermival sprang a surprise when coming home third at Newmarket. This son of Dubawi should have no concern regarding the distance, although he will not be getting his preferred soft ground at the Curragh. He can be involved in the placings again but I don't think he will win.
Winner of last year's Dewhurst, Parish Hall makes his seasonal appearance in the Classic. It remains to be seen in what kind of disposition he is, and how well he's progressed over the winter. Connections must be bullish because he's been the subject of major market support in the run-in to the race. It's impossible to gauge his chances against horses that have already had one or two important outings already, but if he wins this, he could turn out to be the top miler of his generation. It seems to be safer to have him in the frame than an outright win.
Power looks to be the No 1 representative from the Ballydoyle camp, despite having tailed off at Newmarket, seemingly because of the soft ground conditions. He's clearly got a lot of talent, but as a sprinter and not as an outright miler. A slow pace will play to his advantage, but it's hard to see him reverse form with the other contenders from the 2000 Guineas and take this.
If there is to be a huge upset, I would not be surprised if it came from Reply, again from the Aidan O'Brien camp. Unless he's already been tasked to take the role of the non-honourable pace-maker, he is making his seasonal appearance and has unexposed form. He has been placed third in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes last year, so his race history has to be respected. If he is to be given a proper chance to run his race, this might be a value pick for long punters.
Takar is the ride of Johnny Murtagh for the Aga Khan. He's clearly a smart sort who's won his last race at listed level very comfortably. That race should have brought the necessary improvement in him but he will feel the difference in class. He might have his say in elite company, but a place at this stage looks more of a possibility than a win.
Finally, Trumpet Major represents the Richard Hannon stable, and comes from a honourable fourth place at Newmarket. He looked the winner two furlongs out and while connections point to the soft ground for his downfall, I think he just might not have been suited to the dip of the Rowley track. The firmer track might be to his advantage, and the fact that he stayed on in the 2000 Guineas means that the distance will suit well. I think he's sitting on a big race.
All said and done, I like Trumpet Major as an each-way. The Hannon camp won this race with Canford Cliffs a couple of years back, and they look set to strike again, or at least play a major role again. I think Takar and Parish Hall look poised to run well and complete the placings.
Each-way: Trumpet Major
Born To Sea disappointed in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket. Connections can point to the soft ground but I think he's more of a sprinter-type, and his pedigree confirms that, being by Invincible Spirit. Over the course of the year, it could be that can get a mile against seasoned milers, but this race might possibly come a little too soon for him after his flop a few weeks back. I think he can run a Place at best.
Hermival sprang a surprise when coming home third at Newmarket. This son of Dubawi should have no concern regarding the distance, although he will not be getting his preferred soft ground at the Curragh. He can be involved in the placings again but I don't think he will win.
Winner of last year's Dewhurst, Parish Hall makes his seasonal appearance in the Classic. It remains to be seen in what kind of disposition he is, and how well he's progressed over the winter. Connections must be bullish because he's been the subject of major market support in the run-in to the race. It's impossible to gauge his chances against horses that have already had one or two important outings already, but if he wins this, he could turn out to be the top miler of his generation. It seems to be safer to have him in the frame than an outright win.
Power looks to be the No 1 representative from the Ballydoyle camp, despite having tailed off at Newmarket, seemingly because of the soft ground conditions. He's clearly got a lot of talent, but as a sprinter and not as an outright miler. A slow pace will play to his advantage, but it's hard to see him reverse form with the other contenders from the 2000 Guineas and take this.
If there is to be a huge upset, I would not be surprised if it came from Reply, again from the Aidan O'Brien camp. Unless he's already been tasked to take the role of the non-honourable pace-maker, he is making his seasonal appearance and has unexposed form. He has been placed third in the Group 1 Middle Park Stakes last year, so his race history has to be respected. If he is to be given a proper chance to run his race, this might be a value pick for long punters.
Takar is the ride of Johnny Murtagh for the Aga Khan. He's clearly a smart sort who's won his last race at listed level very comfortably. That race should have brought the necessary improvement in him but he will feel the difference in class. He might have his say in elite company, but a place at this stage looks more of a possibility than a win.
Finally, Trumpet Major represents the Richard Hannon stable, and comes from a honourable fourth place at Newmarket. He looked the winner two furlongs out and while connections point to the soft ground for his downfall, I think he just might not have been suited to the dip of the Rowley track. The firmer track might be to his advantage, and the fact that he stayed on in the 2000 Guineas means that the distance will suit well. I think he's sitting on a big race.
All said and done, I like Trumpet Major as an each-way. The Hannon camp won this race with Canford Cliffs a couple of years back, and they look set to strike again, or at least play a major role again. I think Takar and Parish Hall look poised to run well and complete the placings.
Each-way: Trumpet Major
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Delivery time
Great last week-end with the Lockinge and Preakness delivering the 1-2 punch as expected.
What else to say about Frankel that hasn't yet been said? He's not as imposing as Sea The Stars but his mechanics are just unbelievable. In full flight, he's an unstoppable machine in motion. At this point, there seems nothing to stop him in the Prince of Wales stakes at Ascot, possibly his next stop. Excelebration ran the race expected of him but again had to settle for second place. Unfortunately for him, it looks like there are more runner-up spots in the offing for him each time he locks horns with the Galileo colt.
State-side, I'll Have Another outran Bodemeister in the final strides to complete the Derby-Preakness double, opening the possibility of achieving the Triple Crown. Can he do it? It's a little early to say but I believe much of it will depend on the disposition of Dullahan and Union Rags. Both horses will be fresher for the Belmont showpiece as they skipped Pimlico. The Triple Crown is far from a certainty for I'll Have Another, but he's proved to have lots of ability, and certainly is among the best of his generation.
In football, Chelsea finally won the Champions League after coming close in recent years. Their success had looked so improbable in their encounters with Barcelona and in the final against Bayern, but it seems that it was written somewhere that they would win it. Di Matteo showed all his savviness and when you look at his short managerial career, he's never really showed he was a bad manager. He did well at West Brom and looked unlucky to be sacked there. Whether he stays at the helm of Chelsea of not, he looks destined to be wanted by other top clubs in Europe.
Coming up over the week-end are the Irish Guineas Classics and both colts and fillies races look competitive. With Camelot certain to step up in trip from now on, this year's 3-year old top miler could be making a statement at the Curragh. It will be interesting to see if the returning Parish Hall can confirm all the promise of last season, or if one of the flops at the Newmarket Classic, such as Born To Sea and Power, can redeem himself and take a leading role in the division. There certainly will be no more room for excuses and ability or non-ability will be there for all to see.
What else to say about Frankel that hasn't yet been said? He's not as imposing as Sea The Stars but his mechanics are just unbelievable. In full flight, he's an unstoppable machine in motion. At this point, there seems nothing to stop him in the Prince of Wales stakes at Ascot, possibly his next stop. Excelebration ran the race expected of him but again had to settle for second place. Unfortunately for him, it looks like there are more runner-up spots in the offing for him each time he locks horns with the Galileo colt.
State-side, I'll Have Another outran Bodemeister in the final strides to complete the Derby-Preakness double, opening the possibility of achieving the Triple Crown. Can he do it? It's a little early to say but I believe much of it will depend on the disposition of Dullahan and Union Rags. Both horses will be fresher for the Belmont showpiece as they skipped Pimlico. The Triple Crown is far from a certainty for I'll Have Another, but he's proved to have lots of ability, and certainly is among the best of his generation.
In football, Chelsea finally won the Champions League after coming close in recent years. Their success had looked so improbable in their encounters with Barcelona and in the final against Bayern, but it seems that it was written somewhere that they would win it. Di Matteo showed all his savviness and when you look at his short managerial career, he's never really showed he was a bad manager. He did well at West Brom and looked unlucky to be sacked there. Whether he stays at the helm of Chelsea of not, he looks destined to be wanted by other top clubs in Europe.
Coming up over the week-end are the Irish Guineas Classics and both colts and fillies races look competitive. With Camelot certain to step up in trip from now on, this year's 3-year old top miler could be making a statement at the Curragh. It will be interesting to see if the returning Parish Hall can confirm all the promise of last season, or if one of the flops at the Newmarket Classic, such as Born To Sea and Power, can redeem himself and take a leading role in the division. There certainly will be no more room for excuses and ability or non-ability will be there for all to see.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Classic after-math
Man Utd won, most possibly in a futile fashion, Bodemeister was a good-placed second while Born To Sea flopped in the Guineas.
The Classics came by and produced some interesting thoughts regarding the 3-year old generation. Let's start with the 2000 Guineas where Camelot was up to the monumental task that was bestowed on him all over the winter and met all the expectations with a thundering roar. He's the real deal and for a Montjeu colt to dominate his contemporaries at a mile shows that he's truly in a class of his own. I hope his next stops will be the Derby and St Leger, for a crack at the British Triple Crown. I however think that his owners Coolmore will go on a more commercial path for his stallion career and go for the Champion Stake races instead. Let's hope that the romance of the Triple Crown wins them over, but I wouldn't punt on it.
What to make of Born To Sea? The excuse from connections looks to have been the very soft ground and the fact that he didn't settle from the on-set. I still think he's got the talent and will keep close tabs on him on his future races.
The 1000 Guineas went to un-fancied but progressive Homecoming Queen giving his sire Holy Roman Emperor a first Classic. Her win is most amazing given that it took her 8 races to break her maiden tag. You never know with those Aidan O'Brien horses, they can spring up when you least expect them. Maybe, the favourite, lost her unbeaten tag, but I wouldn't discount her out yet.
Stateside, I'll Have Another won the Kentucky Derby and this horse shouldn't be taken lightly from now on. If his win over fancied Creative Cause in the Santa Anita Derby did not make him a household name, this win will do it. He was well-placed all the way and ran down Bodemeister because of his superior stamina. Both must certainly be leading players going to the next Classic, the Preakness Stakes in 2 weeks.
There are lots of good racing going on in the UK at the moment but most of it is getting wrecked by the wet weather. Long studies of form can be easily wrecked by the soggy and heavy conditions prevailing at the tracks. As can be seen in the past days, long-shots and outsiders rule the roost in such circumstances, and it looks best to stay away unless there's a clear shout in a race. Long punters should be enjoying this but I cannot find any good-value certainties in the cards worthy of mention.
The Classics came by and produced some interesting thoughts regarding the 3-year old generation. Let's start with the 2000 Guineas where Camelot was up to the monumental task that was bestowed on him all over the winter and met all the expectations with a thundering roar. He's the real deal and for a Montjeu colt to dominate his contemporaries at a mile shows that he's truly in a class of his own. I hope his next stops will be the Derby and St Leger, for a crack at the British Triple Crown. I however think that his owners Coolmore will go on a more commercial path for his stallion career and go for the Champion Stake races instead. Let's hope that the romance of the Triple Crown wins them over, but I wouldn't punt on it.
What to make of Born To Sea? The excuse from connections looks to have been the very soft ground and the fact that he didn't settle from the on-set. I still think he's got the talent and will keep close tabs on him on his future races.
The 1000 Guineas went to un-fancied but progressive Homecoming Queen giving his sire Holy Roman Emperor a first Classic. Her win is most amazing given that it took her 8 races to break her maiden tag. You never know with those Aidan O'Brien horses, they can spring up when you least expect them. Maybe, the favourite, lost her unbeaten tag, but I wouldn't discount her out yet.
Stateside, I'll Have Another won the Kentucky Derby and this horse shouldn't be taken lightly from now on. If his win over fancied Creative Cause in the Santa Anita Derby did not make him a household name, this win will do it. He was well-placed all the way and ran down Bodemeister because of his superior stamina. Both must certainly be leading players going to the next Classic, the Preakness Stakes in 2 weeks.
There are lots of good racing going on in the UK at the moment but most of it is getting wrecked by the wet weather. Long studies of form can be easily wrecked by the soggy and heavy conditions prevailing at the tracks. As can be seen in the past days, long-shots and outsiders rule the roost in such circumstances, and it looks best to stay away unless there's a clear shout in a race. Long punters should be enjoying this but I cannot find any good-value certainties in the cards worthy of mention.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Crowning moment
This week-end will determine the eventual winner of the EPL. If Man City win at Newcastle, they'll win it. Anything else will lead to a Man Utd win, I believe. Man City holds the cards here and have their destiny in their hands. Can they win it at St James park where Newcastle has proved so difficult to overcome this season? I have a feeling they won't and will have to settle for 1 point at most.
Man Utd will beat Swansea at home, no doubt. There should be many goals in that one. Man Utd is a recommended as a straight win.
The 2000 Guineas will be the center of attention for racegoers. I persist in thinking that Camelot is not tailor-made for the mile and will be much better over longer distances as his pedigree suggests. He's a very good horse no doubt, but I think he's vulnerable at the distance and he is definitely way too short at his current price. He's a lay in my books. I believe his stablemate Power and John Oxx's Born To Sea are the value punts of the race. There are stamina doubts regarding Power, particularly if the grounds gets worse than soft. But if the conditions dry on race day, this battle-hardened colt has shown enough potential in his 2-year old season to be among the contenders. For punters looking for value, he looks like a good Place punt.
Born To Sea looks destined for great things like his half-brothers Galileo and Sea The Stars. His pedigree suggests that he will have more speed than these two, and a mile should be right up his alley. Like Power, he should be more convenienced with drier track conditions. At his current price, he looks worthy of a Place punt and this is the recommendation.
There are quite a few dark horses in the race such as french raiders Abtaal and French Fifteen. They could very well emulate Makfi and trump them all. But I think that Trumpet Major and Caspar Netscher have been over-cooked in their trial wins and are lays at the same level as Camelot.
This year's Kentucky Derby looks the most competitive it's been for years. I don't think Daddy Long Legs, the Coolmore representative has much of a chance here, unless he's turned out to be a superstar. First post and having flopped on his only start on dirt, do not provide confidence to the son of Scat Daddy. I think Bodemeister and Union Rags are sitting on big races here. Bodemeister was by far the most impressive in the prep races and although he's only had 4 races to date, he's been battle-hardened this year. Union Rags was mighty impressive before his disappointing run in the Florida Derby. I don't subscribe to the majority notion that his awful trip was the cause of his defeat. I think his trip wasn't as bad as perceived and that he was well-beaten on the day. Maybe he was under-cooked on the day, but he looks in prime condition for Saturday's race. Bodemeister looks the least vulnerable of the lot and he is a Place selection.
Man Utd will beat Swansea at home, no doubt. There should be many goals in that one. Man Utd is a recommended as a straight win.
The 2000 Guineas will be the center of attention for racegoers. I persist in thinking that Camelot is not tailor-made for the mile and will be much better over longer distances as his pedigree suggests. He's a very good horse no doubt, but I think he's vulnerable at the distance and he is definitely way too short at his current price. He's a lay in my books. I believe his stablemate Power and John Oxx's Born To Sea are the value punts of the race. There are stamina doubts regarding Power, particularly if the grounds gets worse than soft. But if the conditions dry on race day, this battle-hardened colt has shown enough potential in his 2-year old season to be among the contenders. For punters looking for value, he looks like a good Place punt.
Born To Sea looks destined for great things like his half-brothers Galileo and Sea The Stars. His pedigree suggests that he will have more speed than these two, and a mile should be right up his alley. Like Power, he should be more convenienced with drier track conditions. At his current price, he looks worthy of a Place punt and this is the recommendation.
There are quite a few dark horses in the race such as french raiders Abtaal and French Fifteen. They could very well emulate Makfi and trump them all. But I think that Trumpet Major and Caspar Netscher have been over-cooked in their trial wins and are lays at the same level as Camelot.
This year's Kentucky Derby looks the most competitive it's been for years. I don't think Daddy Long Legs, the Coolmore representative has much of a chance here, unless he's turned out to be a superstar. First post and having flopped on his only start on dirt, do not provide confidence to the son of Scat Daddy. I think Bodemeister and Union Rags are sitting on big races here. Bodemeister was by far the most impressive in the prep races and although he's only had 4 races to date, he's been battle-hardened this year. Union Rags was mighty impressive before his disappointing run in the Florida Derby. I don't subscribe to the majority notion that his awful trip was the cause of his defeat. I think his trip wasn't as bad as perceived and that he was well-beaten on the day. Maybe he was under-cooked on the day, but he looks in prime condition for Saturday's race. Bodemeister looks the least vulnerable of the lot and he is a Place selection.
Win: Man Utd.
Place: Born To Sea, BodemeisterThursday, May 3, 2012
Classic Countdown
It is a case of "one down, one more to go" as Real Madrid won La Liga, the Los Blancos being heavily tipped to land the title in these pages for a long time. The other one, Man City for the EPL, currently looks a good shout as well, although it is by no means a certainty as their next travel to Newcastle will certainly determine the destiny of the title.
The first Saturday of May one of the most exciting of any year as one side of the Atlantic holds the Kentucky Derby and the other one the 2000 Guineas. Just last year, Frankel gave a scintillating display for the ages in trouncing his contemporaries in the Newmarket classic. The focus this year has been on Camelot who's not put a foot wrong in his 2-year old campaign, not least winning the Racing Post Trophy in a canter. Will he do a St Nicholas Abbey and flop? That is the main question.
The other question is how good is Born To Sea, the half-brother to superstar Sea The Stars? His trainer John Oxx would not send him across the Irish Sea if he thought he'd be going to the wolves. One thing is certain, his pedigree suggests that Born To Sea will have been born with speedier genes than his half-brother and if a mile on soft ground is within his realm, he will be a major player on Saturday.
Stateside, it's the countdown to the Triple Crown race they all want to win, the Kentucky Derby. This looks a very close affair as well with at least 5 main protagonists in my cards; Bodemeister, Union Rags, Gemologist, Creative Cause and Alpha. I think the winner will come from this group, unless there is an extreme outsider out there that is destined for a good day. Powerhouses Godolphin and Coolmore are represented in this year's race, it would be something if one of them were to land this.
Track and weather conditions are bound to play a big role in these Classics come Saturday; I'll be more confident on my selections as we get close to race-day.
The first Saturday of May one of the most exciting of any year as one side of the Atlantic holds the Kentucky Derby and the other one the 2000 Guineas. Just last year, Frankel gave a scintillating display for the ages in trouncing his contemporaries in the Newmarket classic. The focus this year has been on Camelot who's not put a foot wrong in his 2-year old campaign, not least winning the Racing Post Trophy in a canter. Will he do a St Nicholas Abbey and flop? That is the main question.
The other question is how good is Born To Sea, the half-brother to superstar Sea The Stars? His trainer John Oxx would not send him across the Irish Sea if he thought he'd be going to the wolves. One thing is certain, his pedigree suggests that Born To Sea will have been born with speedier genes than his half-brother and if a mile on soft ground is within his realm, he will be a major player on Saturday.
Stateside, it's the countdown to the Triple Crown race they all want to win, the Kentucky Derby. This looks a very close affair as well with at least 5 main protagonists in my cards; Bodemeister, Union Rags, Gemologist, Creative Cause and Alpha. I think the winner will come from this group, unless there is an extreme outsider out there that is destined for a good day. Powerhouses Godolphin and Coolmore are represented in this year's race, it would be something if one of them were to land this.
Track and weather conditions are bound to play a big role in these Classics come Saturday; I'll be more confident on my selections as we get close to race-day.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
A Strong Lay
Bayern, Man Utd won as expected while Benfica drew with Basle for a voided punt.
A few developments in horse racing that of worthy of note in the past days. First, the news that Born To Sea had torn a muscle in his surprise defeat to Nephrite last Sunday. If that injury hampered the son of Urban Sea in any way, then there's hope that his defeat wasn't due to a lack of talent; he might still be able to give justice to the high opinion of him by the racing world, primarily due to his regal pedigree. After Sunday, his stock had taken a beating and his ante-post odds for next year's Guineas shot up from 6's to the current 14's. While I am not a fan of such markets, serious ante-post punters would be hard-pressed to find better value and might want a crack; if he stays healthy, this horse can become a serious miler next year, in my opinion.
The Breeders Cup starts on Friday with a very competitive card, but the main races of interest are really run on Saturday. At this point, I am at a loss as to why there is a such a strong interest in Strong Suit in the BC Mile. He's got the poorest of draws, he's far from a proven Group 1 winner, he's unproven on the 2-turn track, and he's going to encounter mighty Goldikova. To top it all, he was unable to train properly today along with some other English raiders, resulting in the top-headline drama between the track officials and some English trainers. To me, Strong Suit is a big lay for the Win. Goldikova will certainly beat him in any match-bet, in my opinion. I will wait for tomorrow's events to draw confirmation on all this, but I really think opposing the Hannon star would be rewarding on Saturday.
A few developments in horse racing that of worthy of note in the past days. First, the news that Born To Sea had torn a muscle in his surprise defeat to Nephrite last Sunday. If that injury hampered the son of Urban Sea in any way, then there's hope that his defeat wasn't due to a lack of talent; he might still be able to give justice to the high opinion of him by the racing world, primarily due to his regal pedigree. After Sunday, his stock had taken a beating and his ante-post odds for next year's Guineas shot up from 6's to the current 14's. While I am not a fan of such markets, serious ante-post punters would be hard-pressed to find better value and might want a crack; if he stays healthy, this horse can become a serious miler next year, in my opinion.
The Breeders Cup starts on Friday with a very competitive card, but the main races of interest are really run on Saturday. At this point, I am at a loss as to why there is a such a strong interest in Strong Suit in the BC Mile. He's got the poorest of draws, he's far from a proven Group 1 winner, he's unproven on the 2-turn track, and he's going to encounter mighty Goldikova. To top it all, he was unable to train properly today along with some other English raiders, resulting in the top-headline drama between the track officials and some English trainers. To me, Strong Suit is a big lay for the Win. Goldikova will certainly beat him in any match-bet, in my opinion. I will wait for tomorrow's events to draw confirmation on all this, but I really think opposing the Hannon star would be rewarding on Saturday.
Monday, October 31, 2011
November thrill
Glorious week-end with all 7 recommendations delivering; Man City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Man Utd, Tottenham and Real Madrid all won, and Born To Sea was placed second.
Hardly anything changed atop the major league standings as the leading teams ensured the statu quo by overcoming inferior opposition; Man Utd had arguably the toughest assignment away to Everton and managed to squeeze a win.
In racing, Born To Sea suffered defeat in what would have been a little shocking to some. But it must be said that winner Nephrite looks every bit a horse to take seriously from now on, having racked 2 wins in as many races. This bodes very well for next year. It is obviously premature to have any good inkling on how next year's 2000 Guineas is going to pan out; horses change considerably during the winter and some progress more than the rest. So despite Born To Sea's comprehensive defeat on Sunday, it would be folly to dismiss him for next spring's Classic showpiece. The form certainly gets reset for all at the start of next season.
This week in racing looks tremendous with the Melbourne Cup and the countdown to the Breeders Cup taking major attention. I had the most thrilling time as a punter in the Melbourne Cup 2004 when Zazzman came out 3rd; I had it Placed at 45/1, one minute before the gates opened! The great thing about this race is that even the lesser-fancied horses at 25/1 cannot be dismissed when analyzing the field; they can easily be prominent at the finish. The race that stops a nation looks wide open this year. Obviously, Americain could easily retain his crown if he repeats last year's form. Maybe Godolphin can finally remove a hurdle from their resume by winning one of the races they covet the most. I'll be watching as a pure racing spectacle.
Then, there's the lead-up to the Breeders Cup, the designated world championship of horse racing. Hopefully, there won't be any last-minute drama and preparations go smoothly for all. All eyes will be on Goldikova, who at this point looks to me a great Win prospect. But I will get to it in due time. In the Classic, So You Think will try the unknown in hope, while Uncle Mo carries the expectations of the American crowd.
In football, it's another interesting round of the Champions League, where there is bound to be some good value recommendations on the table. A great and busy week in sports, no complaints!
Hardly anything changed atop the major league standings as the leading teams ensured the statu quo by overcoming inferior opposition; Man Utd had arguably the toughest assignment away to Everton and managed to squeeze a win.
In racing, Born To Sea suffered defeat in what would have been a little shocking to some. But it must be said that winner Nephrite looks every bit a horse to take seriously from now on, having racked 2 wins in as many races. This bodes very well for next year. It is obviously premature to have any good inkling on how next year's 2000 Guineas is going to pan out; horses change considerably during the winter and some progress more than the rest. So despite Born To Sea's comprehensive defeat on Sunday, it would be folly to dismiss him for next spring's Classic showpiece. The form certainly gets reset for all at the start of next season.
This week in racing looks tremendous with the Melbourne Cup and the countdown to the Breeders Cup taking major attention. I had the most thrilling time as a punter in the Melbourne Cup 2004 when Zazzman came out 3rd; I had it Placed at 45/1, one minute before the gates opened! The great thing about this race is that even the lesser-fancied horses at 25/1 cannot be dismissed when analyzing the field; they can easily be prominent at the finish. The race that stops a nation looks wide open this year. Obviously, Americain could easily retain his crown if he repeats last year's form. Maybe Godolphin can finally remove a hurdle from their resume by winning one of the races they covet the most. I'll be watching as a pure racing spectacle.
Then, there's the lead-up to the Breeders Cup, the designated world championship of horse racing. Hopefully, there won't be any last-minute drama and preparations go smoothly for all. All eyes will be on Goldikova, who at this point looks to me a great Win prospect. But I will get to it in due time. In the Classic, So You Think will try the unknown in hope, while Uncle Mo carries the expectations of the American crowd.
In football, it's another interesting round of the Champions League, where there is bound to be some good value recommendations on the table. A great and busy week in sports, no complaints!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Week-end preview
Fa'iz placed third but Zabeel Park seemed to have suffered a setback on her return and was eased two furlongs from home. Frustrating to lose on Zabeel Park as she seemed to be right in the mix of things until her problem. There's no denying there's an element of risk when backing horses returning from such a long layoff.
The week-end's racing is polarized by the possible outing of Born To Sea in the Killavullan Group 3 race in Leopardstown. The three-parts brother to Sea The Stars was mightily impressive when winning on his debut in a listed race. The talent from the family blue blood is clearly there. The vibes from trainer John Oxx are very good, so if the more-than-softish ground does not prevent him from running, it's hard to see him finishing out of the places. I recommend him as a strong each-way punt.
In football, Man City are set to keep on their wining ways as they host Wolves, who they happen to have beaten in the Carling Cup in mid-week. The main guns like Silva and Aguero look set to start and pile more misery on Mc Carthy's men. It's hard to see anything other than a Win for City, and it is the recommendation.
Man Utd face a tougher task going to Everton and Goodison Park is always a tough place to grab 3 points. Everton have injury problems and had a tough long game in midweek against Chelsea. I don't expect the Red Devils to lose this game, but they might not win it either. I recommend them as a draw-no-bet.
Tottenham host QPR in a London derby and I can't see Neil Warnock's men repeating last week's victory against Chelsea. Spurs are solid at home while QPR's main points have also been garnered in the comforts of home. Tottenham are a strong draw-no-bet candidate and this punt is my recommendation.
In Spain, Barcelona host Mallorca in what should be a straightforward contest. Expect Messi to score a bundle to attone for last week-end's penalty miss, in my opinion. Barcelona is a straight Win recommendation. Real Madrid travel to Real Sociedad with full of confidence and all guns blazing. It would be shocking if The Los Blancos were to lose this game. They should win it and in case they misfire, should at least come up with a point. A draw-no-bet on Mourinho's men is recommended.
In Germany, Bayern Munich are hosts to Nurnberg and will clearly look for 3 points. The gulf in class between the 2 teams is clearly evident and Munich should clearly win this. A Win on the hosts is recommended.
The week-end's racing is polarized by the possible outing of Born To Sea in the Killavullan Group 3 race in Leopardstown. The three-parts brother to Sea The Stars was mightily impressive when winning on his debut in a listed race. The talent from the family blue blood is clearly there. The vibes from trainer John Oxx are very good, so if the more-than-softish ground does not prevent him from running, it's hard to see him finishing out of the places. I recommend him as a strong each-way punt.
In football, Man City are set to keep on their wining ways as they host Wolves, who they happen to have beaten in the Carling Cup in mid-week. The main guns like Silva and Aguero look set to start and pile more misery on Mc Carthy's men. It's hard to see anything other than a Win for City, and it is the recommendation.
Man Utd face a tougher task going to Everton and Goodison Park is always a tough place to grab 3 points. Everton have injury problems and had a tough long game in midweek against Chelsea. I don't expect the Red Devils to lose this game, but they might not win it either. I recommend them as a draw-no-bet.
Tottenham host QPR in a London derby and I can't see Neil Warnock's men repeating last week's victory against Chelsea. Spurs are solid at home while QPR's main points have also been garnered in the comforts of home. Tottenham are a strong draw-no-bet candidate and this punt is my recommendation.
In Spain, Barcelona host Mallorca in what should be a straightforward contest. Expect Messi to score a bundle to attone for last week-end's penalty miss, in my opinion. Barcelona is a straight Win recommendation. Real Madrid travel to Real Sociedad with full of confidence and all guns blazing. It would be shocking if The Los Blancos were to lose this game. They should win it and in case they misfire, should at least come up with a point. A draw-no-bet on Mourinho's men is recommended.
In Germany, Bayern Munich are hosts to Nurnberg and will clearly look for 3 points. The gulf in class between the 2 teams is clearly evident and Munich should clearly win this. A Win on the hosts is recommended.
Win: Man City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich
Draw-no-bet: Man Utd, Tottenham, Real Madrid
Each-way: Born To Sea
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Kings of bloodstock
I am no pedigree expert but I certainly keep a keen eye on the bloodstock scene. After all, pedigree is one of the 3 most important ingredients when analyzing a race card, in my opinion. Most experts would concur that the best stallion in the world today is Galileo. I believe he is the only stallion with a "private" fee, which gives an indication of the special treatment and regard he is given. His impact as a sire has been very immediate with high-flyers like Soldier of Fortune, Sixties Icon, Age of Aquarius, Red Rocks, Rip Van Winkle etc; very much a lot from the Ballydoyle contingent.
What amazes me with Galileo is that this year, he seems to have reached even new heights with star performers like Treasure Beach, Roderic O'connor and more importantly, the unbeaten trio of Frankel, Maybe and South African-based Igugu.
The exploits of Frankel have been well documented. He's the wonder horse that most believe is unbeatable. Everyone is waiting for his next start. Then there's Maybe, who's added the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes to her resume last week-end. She's unbeaten in five and is favourite for next year's 1000 Guineas. Then, there's Igugu who won South Africa's Golden Tiara, the country's Triple Crown, and whose trainer, Mike de Kock, rates as the equal of Ipi Tombe. Quite a reference to be associated with the wonder filly.
All 3 are worthy champions and are the dominating figures among their peers. Galileo can have his stock win at the highest level from 8 to 14 furlongs, which says a lot of his versatility as a sire. If his great sire Sadler's Wells was known mainly for producing high-class colts and fillies primed for Classic distances, Galileo looks to be able to produce equally-good speedier types.
If Galileo is that good, then one can only dream on the promise of his half-brother, Sea The Stars. There is no doubt that the racing world is awaiting with baited breath the introduction of the sons and daughters of the wonder horse in a couple of years. These are really exciting times for the bloodstock industry.
And talking of sons of Urban Sea, the press has it that Galileo's and Sea The Star's half-brother Born To Sea will be making his debut for John Oxx in a few weeks. His sire is Invincible spirit, so on paper, he should be a very precocious type. Certainly watch for the name on the future race cards.
What amazes me with Galileo is that this year, he seems to have reached even new heights with star performers like Treasure Beach, Roderic O'connor and more importantly, the unbeaten trio of Frankel, Maybe and South African-based Igugu.
The exploits of Frankel have been well documented. He's the wonder horse that most believe is unbeatable. Everyone is waiting for his next start. Then there's Maybe, who's added the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes to her resume last week-end. She's unbeaten in five and is favourite for next year's 1000 Guineas. Then, there's Igugu who won South Africa's Golden Tiara, the country's Triple Crown, and whose trainer, Mike de Kock, rates as the equal of Ipi Tombe. Quite a reference to be associated with the wonder filly.
All 3 are worthy champions and are the dominating figures among their peers. Galileo can have his stock win at the highest level from 8 to 14 furlongs, which says a lot of his versatility as a sire. If his great sire Sadler's Wells was known mainly for producing high-class colts and fillies primed for Classic distances, Galileo looks to be able to produce equally-good speedier types.
If Galileo is that good, then one can only dream on the promise of his half-brother, Sea The Stars. There is no doubt that the racing world is awaiting with baited breath the introduction of the sons and daughters of the wonder horse in a couple of years. These are really exciting times for the bloodstock industry.
And talking of sons of Urban Sea, the press has it that Galileo's and Sea The Star's half-brother Born To Sea will be making his debut for John Oxx in a few weeks. His sire is Invincible spirit, so on paper, he should be a very precocious type. Certainly watch for the name on the future race cards.
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