Well, well, well! We pulled that one out of the fire. Each way money on Rajdhani Express at 20’s was looking like all it was going to be on a very black Thursday at Prestbury Park. However, Robbie McNamara Esq with balls the size of the Naas Time Capsule was very handy on Spring Heeled in the lucky last and won by 1& 3/4 lengths. P Mullins also stayed on into fourth on Balnaslow for some more each way shekels. What was looking like being a nightmare of a day turned out to be a very pleasant surprise.

So now we turn our attention to the final day of the festival and hopefully can find a few tasty ones to end the week on a high!

JCB Triumph Hurdle 13:30 – It’s a well known trend that Irish horses have a poor record in the juvenile depart and Our Conor ended an 11 year Triumph drought for the Irish. With that in mind, there are still a number of horses that can have cases made on their behalf. Credit to Tim O’Mahony   (otherwise known as number 2) here who talked me into having a look at Pearl Castle. I have my suspicions about the Royal Irish Hussar/Guitar Pete form etc. Quinns horse is potentially being disrespected in the market because he only emerged on the jumps scene in January. You could do worse than back this fella each way. Thanks Tim!

Vincent O’Brien County Handicap Hurdle 14:05 – Important to note PP are paying 5 places. Two for an each way chance in a wide open renewal here. The first is Never Enough Time with the talented Ger Fox claiming weight. Coming into the race on an upward trend and could be still ahead of the handicapper. The other each way squeak lies with Flaxen Flare who carries a lot of weight but is extremely talented and, perhaps more importantly, consistent. He’ll run his race. 18/1 currently.

Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle 14:40 – The Mullins novices seem to be firing on all cylinders and Briar Hill (nap) is thought to be the best of the bunch. Moss Park is a huge price for a live place chance – my each way saver.

Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase 15:20 – Im stupid enough to take on Bobs Worth here, but I just think he could be beatable. Silviniaco Conti travelled strongly when falling in last years race and was a good winner of this seasons King George at Kempton Park. If he can stand up he should put Bobs Worth to the pin of his collar.

Cga Foxhunter Chase Challenge Cup 16:00 – I love this race so much. A shame we don’t get to see Slasify attempt the hat trick but I’m sure the Sweeney family will try and have him back next term. Tammys Hill at his price is superb value to get the better of On the Fringe. Oscar Delta will attempt to right the wrongs of last year but this years form is very weak with the Mangan charge. Im on the Lennon horse each way.

Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle 16:40 – Two for each way chances here again. Don Poli has been progressive and beat a good horse in Goonyella last time. Hopefully the ground suits. Im also a big fan of  The Sky Farmer who should go close for the Hobbs yard with James Best claiming 3 lbs. 16/1 for him is big.

Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase Challenge Cup 17:15 – Mr. Mole has a solid chance here for the Nicholls team. Very consistent and has a good chance. Each way claims lie with Changing The Guard trained by one of the shrewdest trainers in the UK, Dr. Richard Newland.

So thats it for Day 4 and for the festival! Heres hoping we come out on top!

And for those of you who thought we were under pressure at one point today, never fear – Turf Talk’s here. Pressure’s for tyres!

Slán tamaillín,

T

As Matt Chapman would say; “Yeehaa!”. Today was a really lovely days punting and we made a decent few quid, and probably should have made more. 2 wins and 3/4 places depending on where you did you’re betting was a really nice pocket filler and confidence booster after what was a poor day 1. We hit the crossbar today with a few, notably, Orgilgo Bay who could have gone a lot closer had he not raced so keen, but we won’t shy away from the each way shillings at all!

Now we are back in profit, a word of warning before tomorrow. Thursday at the festival, as a rule, is a notoriously difficult day for punters to do well. The crux of what Im trying to say is basically if you’re up a few quid don’t go mad tomorrow. Go small/ each way on bigger prices. Thursday is the day for the freak results. Keep the powder dry for Friday or for a few pints at the weekend! It’s always nice feeling to walk away from Cheltenham up, so box clever.

Let’s have a gander at the card!

JLT Novices’ Chase 13:30 – An interesting encounter with several different angles to make a logical argument from. The word is Felix Yonger is in tip top form and the drying ground should suit. However, there field are fairly generously priced, reflecting the open nature of the race. An each way bet on stablemate Djackadam however tickles my fancy. He really was spectacular when jumping like a buck at Leopardstown. 10’s is very generous.

Pertemps Network Final 14:05 – This race is a prime example of why Thursday at the Cheltenham festival is a bitch of a day to make money. Josies Orders comes in off two wins on the bounce, a light weight and Maurice Linehan claiming 5. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if this is a McManus plunge horse tomorrow. Each way claims. An each way chance also lies with Seefood who has gone close a number of times this term. Interesting to see who takes the ride with Bryan Cooper injured.

Ryanair Chase 14:40 – Benefficient is a proper horse and has a good chance. Tony Martins haven’t run too well this week but Im hopeful. Rajdhani Express is overpriced and doesn’t have to improve too much to make the frame. Each way claims at a big price.

Ladbrokes World Hurdle 15:20 – A fascinating contest. Big Bucks is back to reclaim his title. In my opinion, after seeing older horses left in the wake of youthful exuberance over the last two days, he may be up against it. Annie Power seems to be bombproof, but hasn’t actually beaten too much on her way here. Her first real test is tomorrow. Connections say they haven’t really gotten to the bottom of her and don’t know how good she really is. Her mares allowance is vital and is the main reason Ive sided with her. Medinas is a very interesting outsider and is still open to improvement for a place chance.

Byrne Group Plate 16:00 –  Each way is the name of the game here me thinks. Sew On Target got 6 lbs for a great win at Sandown last time and was a good 4th at this track over a furlong farther back in January. Third Intention could also go well after finishing 3rd behind the RSA winner O’Faolains Boy at Ascot last time. Both each way.

Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap Chase 16:40 – A tricky one again. Balnaslow put in a good shift when running 4th in a fiercely run Thyestes at Gowran Park on heavyish ground. The quicker stuff tomorrow should improve his each way chance. An each way squeak also goes to Spring Heeled who I would imagine connections are expecting a big run from at some point this season looking at his campaign route aiming at some big handicaps. Tomorrow could be the day.

So thats it for Day 3! Hopefully there are few more winners in there for us!

The very best of luck with your own selections! Hopefully you made a few quid today! Onward to tomorrow. For the love of racing! (and money!)

Slán tamaillín,

T

I think it goes without saying that today was a bookies dream. Apart from Vautour romping home in the fastest ever supreme, Champagne Fever getting chinned and Hurricane Fly a victim of younger legs on quicker than ideal ground were definitely results for the layers.

They say the golden rule of betting is to never chase your loses. I may have slightly breached that when I got stuck into Quevega, who helped stem the flow. An each way place on Vaniteux and Ataglance (should have won) also helped. Champagne Fever being beaten was a really bitter pill to swallow for me. He made the rest look average and was just beaten by a freak run from an rank outsider. Thats the game.

Sorry if you lost money at my fault today, but I can’t get it all right unfortunately!

They say the measure of a man is his resilience in the face of great adversity. With that in mind, I’m going to try and absolutely annihilate the bookies tomorrow.

Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle 13:30 – My nap of the festival is Faugheen. I’ve fancied him for a good long while now. Josses Hill was second in the Supreme today. This lad beat him by 22l back in May. Stays well. Won over 3m last time. I’m very sweet on him. Red Sherlock is obviously the danger. Shanahan’s Turn is over priced in my opinion.

RSA Chase 14:05 – I have gone for Morning Assembly here. I think the fav is vulnerable and he is the best of the rest. It’s a poor grade 1 to be honest about it. Fahy’s charge was only a length and a half of Carlingford Lough the last day when well fancied. I think he should go well. Le Bec is a course and distance winner and is potentially over priced for an each way nibble.

Coral Cup 14:40 – A tricky race. I think Dell’ Arca has a solid each way shout in this. A close second in the Betfair hurdle at Newbury last time suggests that this fella has potential. Meister Eckhart also has a nice each way squeak.

BetVictor Queen Mother Champion Chase 15:20 – Although he is 12, it is very hard for me to see Sizing Europe outside the top three and would appeal to me as epic each way value. I can’t warm to the favourite at all. An open race in my opinion. Baily Green also goes with solid place claims.

Glenfarclas Handicap Chase 16:00 – Balthazar King really caught my eye when winning over this course and distance on goodish ground earlier this term. I’d give an each way shout to Love Rory who had a good win over the banks at Punchestown in November. To any Monkey members reading, you’d have given Immediate an auld each way squeak here too, for sure.

Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle 16:40 – I think it’s fair to say that this is a minefield. I’ve gone for two each way shots here. The first is Orgilgo Bay off a feather weight. He was second to Battle of Marengo on the flat in the Beresford stakes once upon a time. He’ll love the drying ground surely. The other is Gordon Elliot’s Clarcam who has gotten close to some decent juveniles this term, whilst not being hugely impressive.

Weatherbys Champion Bumper 17:05 – Black Hercules heads up an embarrassingly good Mullins Bumper squad this year. He is my choice. It very easily could be a Graham Wylie 1,2. Getting them in the right order could be tricky but Im sticking with the son of Heron Island.

So thats it for for Day 2! Hopefully our luck improves!

When your lying in your bed tonight, lads, thinking about all the the money that you should have won on Champagne Fever today, remember that there is a long week ahead. Calculated bravery is required. And when the going gets tough and you feel like having a little weep to yourself, remember what The Cure said; “Boys Don’t Cry”.

Slán tamaillín,

T

 

Greetings one and all, from a sun bathed Kilkenny city, on this beautiful spring evening. To the regulars : “Whats the craic?”, to the infrequent visitors : “This is kind of like a booty call isn’t it?” and to the newbies : “Welcome to Turf Talk!”.

I can’t believe it’s been a whole year since the week of weeks that we had last year. If we can do half of what we did last year I will be a very very happy bunny.

It has arrived. The Cheltenham roller coaster is back to take us on another one of it’s notorious rides. It can go up, it can down, it can go round, it can even derail, but hopefully we can make the most of the spin and make a bean or two along the way.

I’m sure the high stool pontificators in the pubs up and down the country have made their feelings very clear as they drool into your ear over their umpteenth pint and there are endless numbers of professional opinion givers out there in the media, so thanks for taking my opinion into consideration too! I stress it’s only my opinion and not fact. Unfortunately, I can’t tell the future, although some may say that I can!

Hopefully we can find a few winners over the week and have a bit of craic along the way!

There is some fascinating racing on the cards, so even if you are a once-a-year punter or a genuine know it all, you will be enthralled by the action at Prestbury Park over the next four days!

Tomorrow is an absolute HUMDINGER of a day, with some top class equine tussles taking place as horses, jockeys, trainers and owners all vie for their place in the history books. And all of this is on show for your punting pleasure. Mmmmmmm, pleasure.

Lets cut the bull, I’m going in…

Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 13:30 – A middling renewal compared to last years race. I thought Irving looked very sharp at the beginning of the season when winning at Taunton. However, favourites rarely do themselves justice in the supreme so I’ve looked elsewhere. I feel it would be foolish of me not to mention that Paddy Power are offering money back if you’re horse is 2nd, 3rd or 4th. Even if you have an each way bet your horse is placed, you get your place winnings and your losing win stake back (up to €50). Crazy. I’ve gone for two each way shots here. Gilgamboa, trained by Enda Bolger, really impressed when winning the Boylesports Hurdle at Leopardstown. I wasn’t the only one impressed as the handicapper gave him 12lbs for that win. He also won over 2 and a half at Punchestown, which is something I love to see. You probably need to stay a little further than the trip to win the Supreme and this lad does it well. I also have had a nibble at Nicky Henderson’s Vaniteux. Impressive when winning over an extended 2m 3f at Doncaster. He hasn’t really beaten much, but I suspect is improving sharply and has a right each way shout.

Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase 14:05 – As most of you know, course form at Cheltenham is an excellent pointer for finding winners at the festival. I tipped him for the Champion Bumper, I tipped him for the Supreme, Champagne Fever has won me more money than any horse ever in my entire life. I love the sire. All his stock seem to have a high cruising speed as this lad has. He hasn’t got the form in the book over the bigger obstacles, I know, but he won one of the best Supreme Novice’s of the modern era. He ran well, when thumping the second last at Leopardstown last time. It may be my heart getting the better of my head, but if he travels well he should have the measure of these tomorrow. Rock on Ruby is his main danger in my opinion. Grandouet  is overpriced for an each way place at 10’s.

Baylis & Harding Affordable Luxury Handicap Chase 14:40 – A competitive handicap. I’ve gone for two each way shots again. Alfie Sherrin won the JLT Handicap chase at the festival in ’12 and has shown he is pretty sharp around Cheltenham more than once. Hopefully he can handle his weight. Wrong Turn has an each way shout too. Ultra progressive, and still ahead of the handicapper I would imagine. A solid chance.

Champion Hurdle 15:20 –

 My Tent or Yours – needs a flat track.

The New One – shite bag.

Jezki – fiddles his hurdles when the pressure is on.

Our Conor – potentially excellent. Still young. Won what has turned out to be a below average Triumph – hasn’t won since. Main threat.

Hurricane Fly – The champ. 3/1 is insulting. Bravest horse in the race by some way which counts for a lot in the Champion.

If Our Conor improves a stone, like Hughes thinks he will, he should win by a mile. If not the Fly will remain the Champion Hurdler.

OLBG Mares’ Hurdle 16:00 – Quevega will pull off an amazing achievement when she wins her 6th consecutive mares hurdle. Sirene D’Anay is a nice each way price to chase home the Mullins horse.

Terry Biddlecombe National Hunt Chase 16:40 – Nina takes the ride on Shutthefrontdoor who has a nice bit of form in the book and goes well on the track. 7/2 is a little skinny though. Each way play on Living Next Door. Tony Marin has booked top Irish point to point jock Jamie Codd. Interesting that they think he’ll get 4m. He’s lost his way a little but he can find a bit of form he should be there, thereabouts swinging for home.

Rewards4Racing Novices’ Handicap Chase 17:15 – Art Of Logistics gets the nod here, each way. Credible effort in a grade 1 at Christmas and well able over the big obstacles. First time visor should sharpen him up a touch. Each way chance also lies with Attaglance. A good 4th behind an impeccable John’s Spirit at the track in the Paddy Power Gold Cup earlier this season is what leads me to believe this lad has potential for a big run.

So that’s it for Day 1. Hopefully there are a few winners in there somewhere! 

The very best of luck with your selections!

Slán tamaillín,

T

 

 

 

 

 

Good evening Folks, from a wet and dreary Kilkenny city. With a little more than a fortnight to Cheltenham there is hope on the horizon, but in the mean time I have a little competition to warm the cockles of your heart.

So, for those of you who haven’t already heard the amazing news, Leopardstown Racecourse have gone full on crazy by offering under 25’s track membership with the following benefits: 

• Members get admission to 23 racedays (this excludes summer membership, as they get access to 10 racedays)
• Access to the exclusive Members Bar and Circle Lounge on the third floor
• 23 reciprocal days in Ireland and the UK, two yard visits to Coolmore and Tony Martins yard
•  An overseas trip to Cartmel in the UK
• Four complimentary guest passes which includes admission and access to the members bar (these complimentary passes are not valid for Hennessy Gold Cup Day, Champion Stakes Day or the Christmas Festival)
• Two members social evenings, taking place in January and in July during one of our Bulmer’s Live at Leopardstown Summer evenings
• Parade ring presentations made by our members.
• 10% discount in our Restaurant
• 20% off the Irish Field digital edition
• 30% off Racing Post Photos
  
• 20% off clothing at McGuirks Golf Centre, Leopardstown
• Golf deals from Leopardstown Golf Centre

Now a lot  of people find racecourse membership very expensive. However, Leopardstown have seen the light, and are offering people under the age of 25 this membership package for €90.

HANG ON WHAT??

Yes, €90. Thats €3.91 entry per meeting…COME ON! Crazy value. Not to mention all the other bonus deals!

To get the ball rolling on this incredible initiative the lovely people of Leopardstown have given me one Club25 membership to giveaway for nout, nada, zip, zero.

So how can you give yourself a chance at a free membership to Leopardstown? Listen up!

• You must be under 25
• You must have a Twitter Account
• You can enter the draw one of two ways: 

(1) You can retweet any of my tweets (@turftalktom) that contain the hashtag “#Club25”

(2) You can tweet directly “I want to join #Club25 with @turftalktom @LeopardstownRC”

 

I will select the winner, lucky dip style, by 8pm on Sunday evening. Get involved!

It is a fantastic offer!

Slán tamaillín,

T

Good evening, good morning, whatever way you want to put it. I’ve overlooked my duties slightly, and I apologise obtusely for that. One thing led to another, one pint led to another and here I am on a very early Sunday morning typing away. However, never fear, all ye Turf Talk faithful. Luckily, I have already made my selections and they are not drunken stabs in the dark, let me assure you. Although, if they all get beat I may claim such!

There really is a fantastic card on offer at Leopardstown and if you have the opportunity I would encourage each and every one of you to go. There will be a good few Cheltenham pointers.

I’m going to drive on into the card of thats alright?! Tis Late!

13:15 – Gala Retail Spring Juvenile Hurdle – Ivan Grozny is the Mullins-Walsh hot pot here. The common place of Willlie and Ruby at the top of the market is becoming slightly monotonous and is, in my eyes, calling into question the constitution of odds compilers across the industry. The horses they have are not always that good, lads! Grow a pair. Whilst Ivan Grozny does seem sharp I feel Plinth may have the measure of him, and at the prices is most certainly my selection.

13:45 – Irish Stallion Farms E.B.F. Mares Handicap Hurdle – The only way to describe this race, in print, is “pffffff” i.e. your guess is as good as mine. However, I feel Lughnasa, after a good run at Thurles last time and with a 7 lb claimer should be competitive enough for an each way chance. At a bigger price, I also think Keiths Delight could make the frame.

14:15 – Deloitte Novice Hurdle – I’m becoming more and more besotted by The Tullow Tank with every passing day. He is game, which for me is a pre-requisite for any top two mile novice hurdler. He steps up to 2m 2f here, but I’m still confident in him. One to watch, but not back, is Quickpick Vic. He could be aimed for Cheltenham after winning with his head in his chest at this track recently. Interesting to see how he goes/is ridden.

14:45 – Dr. P.J. Moriarty Novice Chase – It really is a travesty that this race is so poorly attended this year. Three runners is not what Irish Grade 1 Novice chasing is about. The premise of Novice Chasing in recent years, on both sides of the water, is based on what the Irish produce. Three runners is a disappointment. Don Cossack to win, but I won’t be betting.

15:15 – Download The New Paddy Power iPad App Handicap Hurdle – Hmmmm. I’m perplexed by this but yet have a hunch. The Doorman, in his first handicap had a live each way chance. I reckon the McManus camp believe there’s a win in this lad this season yet. Dul ar an Ol also catches the “each way eye”.

15:50 – Hennessy Gold Cup – My views on this are fairly succinct. Lyreen Legend apparently has a stone to find on First Lieutenant. I fancy his 5/1 chance.

16:20 – Raymond Smith Memorial Hunters Chase  – It saddens me greatly that Salsify will miss the business end of the Hunter Chase season. It will please me greatly when Quel Esprit wins at 3/1 tomorrow.

16:50 – kieranoconnellracing.com (Pro/Am) Flat Race – Let me shed a little bit of wisdom on you here kids. A good rule to abide by when looking at bumpers on heavyish ground is to look to horses with experience. Often times I’ve found the “first-time-outers” do not enjoy the heavier going. However, in this instance, I am going to break this golden rule. The “vibes” I’ve been getting about Lockstockandbarrell are very, very groovy vibes folks. Very groovy indeed.

So that’s that. Tá tuirseach orm anois. Oíche mhaith agaibh, mo chairde.

Slán Tamaillín,

T

Racing has been very good to me in the relatively short period of time I have been involved in it. I have developed this blog that has hopefully gotten people interested in horse racing and also earned them a few extra shillings along the way. I have bred my first foal from my first mare and got him away for a tidy profit. I have helped to found and grow the Trinity College Horse Racing society which is now one of the most successful societies in the country, let alone Trinity.

They say racing is a game of ups and downs, of euphoric highs and depressing lows. Yesterday I got my first real experience of the lows.

This season I became involved in a syndicate with a group of friends and friends of friends. A group of young people genuinely enthused by national hunt racing. Luckily, we all were mutual friends of P.W. Mullins and when an opportunity arose “The Monkeys” were formed.

The syndicate, now in it’s third season, had a single runner to bear its striped blue colours. The mighty Immediate Response.

In 2003 a Robellino mare by the name of Rosies All the Way gave birth to a Strategic Choice colt foal bred by Mrs. Claire Keegan. This foal would turn out to be Strategic Choice’s second best track performing offspring. Second only to the 2013 World Hurdle fancy Bog Warrior. He was originally bought for €22,000 and named Immediate Response.

In the early days he was trained by the Gowran based Michael Joseph Fitzgerald and ridden by the owner’s son, and latterly Monkeys syndicate member, David Thomas who rode his first winner on him in a bumper at Gowran Park in 2008.

Immediate first ran for The Monkeys in February 2012 after an 830 day lay off due to injury. Now in the hands of W.P.and P.W. Mullins. He won that handicap hurdle off 92 and won again 7 days later at Thurles. He looked to have a a little more in the bag, and did, when he came out and completed the hat trick at Limerick winning off his new mark of 116, which jumped to 132 as a result. He went chasing  in 2013 and won 2 from 3 starts over the bigger obstacles to get a handicap mark of 130.

This season has been a series of unfortunate events for the Response. First time out he ran in a Cross Country race at Punchestown and we were hopeful of a good run. He travelled super and was up on the pace for most of it until he unseated at the 24th obstacle, better known as Ruby’s Double. We then went to Limerick at Christmas for the Tim Duggan Memorial Chase. We were quietly confident to at least pick up some nice prize money here. After slightly missing the start Jamie Codd got him back up on the pace and turning for home he had every chance. Jumping the second last I thought we were going the best and hit the front but were headed coming to the last. The ground was very testing and our lad was wrecked. He clouted the last and couldn’t find a leg. We were probably beaten anyway but we would have taken second place happily. The handicapper gave us three pounds for what really was a great run.

We then went to Leopardstown yesterday for the big Leopardstown Chase. We knew we were very exposed but thought that we had a good place chance, especially at a price of 25/1. The plan was to be handy, which we were. Travelled ok, perhaps a touch keen passing the stands the first time and definitely he wasn’t as fluent jumping down the back as he can be. However, turning for home two to jump he had a right chance. He headed the leader on the bend and took the lead between the last two. They were stacked up behind and we were probably beaten, but a good jump left us with an odds on place chance in running. “GO ON THE RESPONSE”. We were all willing him over the last, but he came into the wings and tried to shorten up by the look of the replay. He hit the top of it and came down on his shoulder. Paul Townend got up straight away. Immediate tried to get up but couldn’t take his weight on his front leg and fell back down. Jesus. Paddy Mullins and Dave Thomas sprinted off into the driving rain. Myself and a few others ran down to the railing at the last.

The excited commentary of the closing stages was our background music. At either end of the furlong between the last fence and the finish line there were two very different situations. I looked back up at the big screen to see happy faces and smiles all round in the parade ring as the winner was welcomed in. Meanwhile, a screen of our own was being put up as the vet approached Immediate, still on  the ground at the back of the last. The euphoric highs and depressing lows of racing.

“Maybe he’s winded”. “He’s only down a minute sure”. We were going through Denial, the first stage of grief.

Through the rain I could see Paddy walking back towards us. “What’s that in his hand?”. A bridle. Fuck. He’d broken a bone towards the top of his leg. We walked back inside together. The tannoy echoed “Winner alright, winner alright”. Who cares? Do you realise what just happened? Cue stage two: Anger.

We sat around the table together for a while with very little being said. The mood was low, as you can imagine. The poor fella. If only he had just found a leg. If only he had fallen differently. If only this, if only that. Stage three: Bargaining.

Stage four is depression. Now, I can only speak for myself in this instance, and I’m not sure if what I’m experiencing could be described as such but it definitely is a strong feeling of guilt and sadness. He ran for us. He died running for us. There is a knot in the stomach. Acceptance, the fifth and final stage, has yet to arrive.

Immediate response ran for The Monkeys eleven times and won five. Thats a 45.45 % strike rate. He owes us absolutely nothing and has given the syndicate so many great days. We owe him. That’s why I wrote about him. The one, the only, the Response.

Yesterday’s race was won by He’llberemembered. He will indeed.

Slán tamaillín,

T

Well, well, well. It’s tough to fathom the magnitude of what has happened in the last 24 hours, but in gambling terms, history has been made.

For those of you who have been under a rock today, Timeform radio described the proceedings as “a nationwide gamble”. Four horses across Catterick, Lingfield and Kempton were subject to monumental gambles which all landed. Not since the Barney Curley coup of 2010 has the likes of today been seen. To suggest the Fermanagh punting virtuoso was directly involved is still, at this point, merely speculation. However, strong links can be made between the four horses and the architect of the legendary Yellow Sam coup of 1975.

I could go on forever about this but, for what it’s worth, here are my abridged two cents. The choreographed gamble landed today, regardless of Curley’s involvement or not, is, in fact, an act of heroism and, in my opinion, a win for the punting public. The mastermind behind today worked the system without breaking any rules in the eyes of the stewards.  The horses were ridden to the best of their ability in the eyes of the law. To lay one horse out is difficult, but to lay four out in a manner such as today is, without a doubt, heroic. If anyone has a problem, it should be with the handicapper.

So I tip my cap to you Sir, whoever you are! You really have brightened up what could have been just another Wednesday.

Gowran Park takes centre stage on what is so much more than just another Thursday! The feature meeting of the year kicks off 2014 at the Kilkenny track. With big crowds expected and a pretty sharp card on offer, it’s going to be a cracker!

Thyestes Day in one of my favourite meetings of the year! The atmospheric parade ring can be described as a slightly more rustic version of its Longchamp contemporary. The sunlight dapples the crowd below, through the ancient trees, as an air of expectation builds before the start. Single toll of the bell. Last instructions. Leg up. Magic.

I will be there tomorrow so if I can find a few winners you’ll find me in Connolly’s of Dunbell enjoying a pint of plain and a hang sandwich. It’s not just a great day’s racing, but a great day to meet old friends that perhaps only meet up on the second last Thursday in January every year.

Enough of that auld jabber, lets have a look at the card!

13:15 Nugent Spirit 25 Horsebox Hurdle – This is a two mile contest for juveniles and would appear to be a bit of a penalty kick for the owner of the great Florida Pearl, Mrs. Violet O’Leary. Abyssial looks to be the one here even though he doesn’t seem to be a Triumph type, more a stayer in the making. The value here is in the forecast. I feel Arzembouy Premier will be the best of the rest and chase home the fav.

13:45 Four Star Langton House Hotel Maiden Hurdle – An interesting maiden. I’m going to go for two here. The Doorman was subject to a “late injection of money” as opposed to a gamble on debut at Naas but was beaten. He has a decent bit of point form with a close second behind Minella Foru who has won a grade 3 hurdle. Mouse is also a man to not have them 100% first time up. I’m hoping he has him buzzed for this. I also may have an each way nibble at The Winkler trained by Eoin Doyle. I backed him on his bumper win and was impressed by his attitude. I think Gowran could suit.

14:15 John Mulhern Galmoy Hurdle – Again, I’m of the opinion that this could be reasonably straight forward for Zaidpour. He has mixed it with and beaten some of the best and just has too much class. The forecast is the value here again (potentially revers forecast if you fell so inclined). I expect Robbie Colgan to be pushing and shoving  in second on Mala Beach. Thats the 1,2.

14:45 Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Hurdle – A race for pro riders who not yet lost the right to claim under rule 52, but I doubt you’ll be too worried about that. Plenty of unpleasant form figures here but the one I’ve gone for is Cassels Rock who runs off a feather weight. Ran a good second from a not very tactical ride at Limerick last time. I fancy the Rock of Gibraltar gelding to at least place.

15:15 Goffs Thyestes Handicap Chase – The big one. If the handicapper has done his job I should be able to make a case for every single horse in the race. However, I am not. I fancy two strongly and one less so. Panther Claw and Hunting Party are my preferences. The Gigginstown horse in particular. Third in this last year, loves the ground, carries 5lb more this time but still has a chance. The latter has track form and potentially has a big handicap win in him at some point. The third I may or not have a small bet on. Rich Revival if he is right can be a sharp customer. The question is: is he right?! All each way.

15:45 PMF Accountants Beginners Chase – Not really one I’m excited about but I’ll have a stab at it. Dogora will be fancied but is obviously vulnerable and the one I’ve gone with is Ring Ben. Connections have tried very hard to get his head in front in maiden and handicap hurdles but alas the Beneficial gelding has not obliged so this move to chasing may be viewed as more of a last resort rather than a progression. However, the champion jockey is booked and his agent, Frostie Kelly, is trying very hard to get winners for his man after the recent cabinet reshuffle at Gigginstown. There must be ability there and Davy is riding well of late.

16:15 P.J. Foley Memorial Flat Race – Black Hercules is the market leader and has been very well touted by the Closutton team. Too well touted perhaps. I haven’t seen enough to warrant even money or odds on. I think he may win but I can’t have him at the prices. I may keep the money in the pocket here. If I am having a bet I will tweet it at the track so keep an eye on twitter (@turftalktom).

So that’s that folks! Best of luck with your selections and see you at the races!!

Slán tamaillín,

T

A lovely lovely day today with a juicy 14/1 each way bet on the Charlie Swan trained winner Courage and a win on the 5/2 shot Silver Concorde. I got the Lexus fairly wrong though!

It is quite late so with your permission I am going to plough on.

12:25 Martinstown Opportunity Handicap Chase – A tricky handicap. I think Baily Dusk could go well for the Mouse Morris team. He’s off a new mark now up to 106 from 99 for a recent win. It remains to be seen whether he is still competitive off his new mark but the 4 pound claim from Chris Timmons should help. Each way chance with Emperor Concerto who came to Elliot’s this season from the UK. May need better ground however.

12:55 Mongey Communications Novice Handicap Hurdle – Looks like Sea Light is going again but while he has a great chance, he will be too short for me. You can do worse than have an each way flutter on Noah Webster. Hopefully his jumping is better.

13:30 Ryanair Maiden Hurdle – Rockdown won a bumper on heavy by a head last March. Not enough for me to justify backing him at 11/10. I prefer the look of Shanahans Turn with the added bonus of race fitness.

14:00 Ryanair Hurdle – I would be untrue to myself if I didn’t go with the Fly. Still the class horse on the category on both sides of the Irish sea. Hurricane Fly, that is all.

14:35 Ifg E.B.F. Mares Hurdle – Upsie is without doubt high class. However, I feel Urticaire could be decent and is still relatively unexposed.  At 3/1 she is my preference. Cant afford to back too many odds on shots these days!

15:05 Topaz Novice Chase – Very interesting. Both the top two in the market have taken to chasing quite well. I’m not really sure why, but I’m going to take on the favourite here again with Bright New Dawn. I think he should go well.

15:35 Ryanair Flat Race – Think the fav Value at Risk, the son of Kayf Tara (sire I’m becoming fond of) should justify his market attention here.

So that’s it for Day 4 folks! Hopefully we can find a few winners again!

Slán tamaillín,

T

Rockyaboya, owned by PWM, trained by WPM, takes the Paddy Power Chase!

When Immediate Response fell at the last in Limerick I shed a tear. Thankfully my tears of sorrow were turned to tears of joy as Rockyaboya rocked my world and held on to clinch the Paddy Power and Victrix Gale ran on into 4th. Other than that things were bleak. The Mullins horses, especially the bigger names, do not seem to be firing.

Next up is Lexus Chase day. Let’s have a quick run through the card.

12:20 Madigans Maiden Hurdle – Riverside City appeals to me from a bang in form Elliott yard. Form doesn’t read fantastic but has an each way chance (depending on the price).

12:50 Pertemps Handicap Hurdle – Empire of Dirt chased home what I think to be a sharp horse in Faugheen last time. I think he should feature here. Also in with an each way shout is Courage who steps up for the first time to 3m.

13:20 Star Best For Racing Christmas Rated Hurdle – A trappy little race. Pires catches my eye. Ground a possible concern.

13:50 Woodiesdiy.com Christmas Hurdle – On ratings it has to be Solwhit. Zaidpour will enjoy the ground but will be bridesmaid again I imagine. Solwhit a non runner. Zaidpour is too short. Small bet on Mala Beach.

14:20 Ballymaloe Country Relish Beginners Chase – I’m a Si C’Etait Vrai fan. Hopefully he can continue to progress over the larger obstacles and holds race fitness over the Mullins horse.

14:55 Lexus Chase – The main event. Last year’s Gold Cup seemed to have emptied its contestants and for that reason I’m willing to take on Bobs Worth. Sir des Champs has a pretty horrific fall last time. I’ll also be taking him on with Unioniste who, after winning a listed contest at this trip at Aintree this month, makes the trip from Ditcheat.

15:30 Thornton’s Recycling Flat Race – Derek O’Connor takes the
ride on the highly thought of son of Dansilli Silver Concorde. The
one.

So that’s it for Day 3! Hopefully there are few winners in there somewhere!

Slán tamaillín,

T