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NEWS PAGES.

An archive of horse racing related news stories, with current stories at top of archive.

If you would like us to include your news items, please e mail your press releases to: admin@racingsight.co.uk

 

To access news stories from previous months, use the links below.

June 2008

May 2008

April 2008

March 2008

February 2008

January 2008

December 2007.

 

23 July 2008.

Death In Stalls At Catterick.

In today's 3.20 p m race at Catterick, Deserted Dane tragically collapsed and died in the starting stalls.

Our thoughts go out to all connections,and we commend Stan James and Betdirect who have both agreed to refund all bets on the tragic horse.

23 July 2008.

A West Country Crowd Pleaser.

Put together a competitive race card, cider, and the Wurzels, and you have an excuse for a mammoth crowd at Bath Races on 01 August. In fact, we are advised, if you do not want to miss the fun of Bath Racecourse's Cider Festival, you better order a few of the remaining tickets now!

22 July 2008.

Tote Jackpot Rolls Over To Leicester.

When the favourite failed to win the last race at today's Salisbury meeting, the remaining single bet left in the Tote Jackpot was nullified. This means there will be an estimated six hundred thousand pound Tote Jackpot on offer at tomorrow's Leicester meeting.

22 July 2008.

Treble Pleasure At Brighton In August.

By popular demand, Brighton's August Festival of Racing is back up to 3 days, commencing on Wednesday 06 August. John Smith's are sponsoring the first day of the meeting, which includes the course's richest race of the season, the Brighton Mile.

As a second bonus on the opening day, race goers who have purchased a ticket in advance, and who are interested in darts, can register with the racecourse's Commercial Manager, Stefan Hull, by telephoning 01273 603 580. All registered individuals will go into a draw, and the winning race goers will have the opportunity to have a game of darts against the legendary and charasmatic Bobby George.

As a third treat, the famous cockney duo, Chas and Dave, will provide the entertainment on the opening day of the festival.

22 July 2008.

First Two Year Old Group One This Weekend.

Just a reminder, as if it were needed, the Curragh stages the Independant Waterford Wedgewood Phoenix Stakes on Sunday. As most regular race goers will know, the race is the first Group One contest of the season for two year olds.

At the latest decleration stage, a fine crop of horses remain in contention, including: Coventry Stakes winner Art Connoisseur, Aidan O'Brien's unbeaten Mastercraftsman, Kevin Prendergast's also unbeaten Shimmah, and Anglesey Stakes winner Bush Ranger. In an attempt to win a remarkable fourteenth Group One race in a single season, Aidan O'Brien has also entered; Egypt, Gluteus Maximus, and Sea of Marmara.

22 July 2008.

Racing On Recession Alert.

With the latest news concerning a cut back of horses in training by Persimmon Chairman Duncan Davidson, many trainers are making plans to reduce the size of their operations if a full blown recession starts to affect the racing industry.

To be frank, the general economic messages are not disasterous at present, and the building cycle is often out of tune with the general economy, so this may prove to be a sympton of economic slowdown rather than a recession. But like all good businesspeople, trainers have to make all sorts of business plans if they are to protect their long term livelyhood.

22 July 2008.

Ascot May Water!

With the wether forecast for the remainder of the week looking mainly dry, warm and sunny, Ascot officials are making plans to water the racing surface, so as to ensure good going for this Saturday's King George Meeting.

22 July 2008.

Look Busy Prevents Fullandby Double.

As we reported the other day, Fullandby was attempting to win the Giles Insurance Heritage Handicap for the second year in a row at yesterday's Glasgow Fair meeting at Ayr. Many punters could have been forgiven for starting to count their winnings when Fullandby went clear in the closing stages, but a withering run from Alan Berry's Look Busy scuppered the double attempt close home.

22 July 2008.

Ladies Day Sell Out At Newcastle?

Newcastle racecourse officials have announced today, they have sold out of Premier Enclosure tickets for Saturday's Ladies Day Meeting. However, a limited number of hospitality packages, along with Grandstand and Paddock tickets are presently still available.

The track highlight for the 26 July meeting is the seven furlong Beeswing Stakes, a race which commemorates the most famous mare to have been trained in the north east of england. Not only did Beeswing win 50 races during her racing career, but she was also the dam and grand dam of many classic winners.

In the public areas, Marks and Spencer, who are the sponsors of the best dressed lady competition, will be giving out hundreds of goody bags to race goers, while the ten finalists in the best dressed lady competition will all receive prizes, with a super prize being presented to the eventual overall winner.

22 July 2008.

Clydesdale Bank Sponsor Musselburgh Mascot Race.

This year's famous Scottish Premier League Mascot Race takes place during Musselburgh's evening race meeting on 31 July. Sponsorship for the event, which raises much needed funds for charity, will this year be provided by Clydesdale Bank.

It is expected virtually all of the Scottish Premier League Clubs will be represented by their mascot in a race won last year by the Heart of Midlothian mascot Tiny Tiger.

On the evening, an array of football stars and football skills demonstrations will compliment a series of very competitive races.

21 July 2008.

BHA Take Positive Step To Prevent Future Controversy.

In an attempt to avoid any future examples of the same kind of controversy and innuendo which surrounded the drug regimes of the foreign competitors at this year's Royal Ascot Meeting, the BHA has today set down a hard and fast ruling concerning the use of non-therapeutic substances by overseas competitors in british racing.

In short, from 01 January 2009, overseas horses must match the substance standards expected from all british runners. All foreign horses who have already been treated with non-therapeutic substances will be barred from british races. Furthermore, all overseas trainers will have to make a decleration, in which they confirm their horses entered in british races are free of non-therapeutic substances, and that such substances have never been administered during the whole of their racing careers.

21 July 2008.

Badge Clamp Down Anticipated At Newmarket.

Newmarket racecourse officials are said to be very disappointed at the attitude shown by some owners and trainers towards the owners and trainers badge scheme.

In an effort to expose misuse of the current badge system, it seems officials deliberately purchased a badge off E bay which provided access to Friday night's meeting and the Girls Allowed Concert.

Although the source of the ticket has been withheld, it is believed officials are now considering the introduction of penalties for owners and trainers who flaunt the protocol relating to badge distribution.

21 July 2008.

Connections Delay A Decision.

Following her victory at Newbury on Saturday, connections of Passage of Time will wait and see how she comes out of the race before making a definite decision on her participation in the Group One Nassau Stakes at Goodwood later this month.

20 July 2008.

Fullandby Goes For Back To Back Wins.

Ayr racecourse stages its annual Glasgow Fair Meeting tomorrow, and in the major race on the card, the forty thousand pounds Giles Insurance Heritage Handicap, last year's winner Fullandby will try to defend his crown in what appears to be a very competitive five furlong contest.

20 July 2008.

McEvoy Considers Return To Australia.

It is believed Kieran McEvoy has been offered the top jockey position for Shiekh Mohammed's expanding Australian horse racing operation.

Since coming to Britain as Frankie Dettori's number two, McEvoy has enjoyed a great deal of success with the Godolphin organisation, and has also become a popular rider on the european circuit.

However, it is thought, a return to Australia as number one jockey may be too good an opportunity for McEvoy to turn it down.

20 July 2008.

Cashew King Put Down.

Former smart hurdler Cashew King, who included the 1988 County Hurdle amongst his victories, was recently, and sadly, put down due to the affirmaties of old age.

20 July 2008.

Upgrade For Paddy Power Sponsored Race.

The Paddy Power sponsored Future Champion Novices Hurdle, staged at Leopardstown's Christmas Meeting, has been upgraded to a Grade One contest by Horse Racing Ireland.

20 July 2008.

Long Convalescence For Injured Jockey.

Irish jockey, Adrian O'Shea, who suffered a serious back injury at Killarney last week, has been told, if his injury is to heal properly, he will have to take a long break from race riding.

18 July 2008.

Injury Jinx Hits Lee Again.

Graham Lee will once more miss a major race due to injury. Following concussion suffered after a fall at Worcester on Wednesday evening, he will miss his ride in tomorrow's Totesport Summer Plate at Market Rasen.

18 July 2008.

Red Rocks Moves To Hennig.

As it has been decided Red Rocks will continue his campaign in America this summer, connections have made the decision to move his training from Brian Meehan to stateside trainer Mark Hennig.

18 July 2008.

Ansar Reunited With O'Regan.

Dennis O'Regan, who rode Ansar to victory in the 2005 running of the Galway Plate, has been reunited with the twelve year old course specialist for the running of this year's race.

18 July 2008.

Joint Champion To Ride Tareek.

Connections of Tareek are said to be very pleased with securing the riding abilities of joint champion jockey Seb Saunders for Tareek's up coming run in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood.

18 July 2008.

Carberry Misses Galway.

It has been announced, following his recent fall, jockey Paul Carberry will not be fit in time to ride at the Galway Festival later this month.

18 July 2008.

Alterations To National Hunt Handicapping Procedure?

At present, only horses who have already won, or alternatively, who have competed in three unsuccessful national hunt races can qualify for a national hunt handicap mark.

In new proposals coming from the national hunt sub committee of the BHA, it is suggested horses who have finished in the first four places in their first two competitive national hunt races should also qualify for a handicap mark.

A final decision on the proposal will be made by a full meeting of the BHA executive.

18 July 2008.

Oh Yes! It's Denman Again!

Trainers beware! Paul Nicholls has announced, the even bigger and better Denman will turn out for the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury on 29 November.

Despite his awesome performances last season, some trainers might consider the only likely time to defeat Denman may be when he is carrying top weight in his first run of the season, and hopefully, this will attract a large crop of quality steeplechasers for this quality early season race.

18 July 2008.

Change Of Plans For Bankable.

Bankable, who was due to run in his first Group race in France this weekend, has been rerouted by trainer Luca Cumani. The lightly race colt will now take his chances over an extended trip of a mile and a quarter in the Listed Steventon Stakes at Newbury tomorrow.

18 July 2008.

Godolphin In No Hurry!

Two of last year's leading two year olds, Ibn Khaldun, and Fast Company, will not be rushed back into racing action during this season. Godolphin believe the two horses have to have time to grow into their racing frames, and it is possible, they will not return to track action until the Dubai Carnival early next year.

18 July 2008.

Bangor On Dee Family Day.

On Tuesday evening, 22 July, Bangor-on -dee racecourse is staging its annual family day. There will be lots of entertainment for the younger members of racing families, including; bouncy castles, bucking broncos, and face painting. In addition, there is a sound racing programme including the ten thousand pound Bangor-on-dee steeplechase.

15 July 2008.

Interesting Plans Come Out Of Man O'War Confrontation.

Saturday's running of the Man O'War Stakes not only saw Curlin beaten by Red Rocks, it has also thrown up some potentially interesting racing plans.

Connections of Red Rocks are seriously considering keeping him in America prior to another run in the Breeders Cup Turf, which he won last year.

Meanwhile, Curlin may make the trip to Ireland later in the season, with a potential tilt at the Irish Champion Stakes being planned for his second outing on grass.

15 July 2008.

No Mad Rush For Ebor?

It now seems likely Old Newton Cup winner Mad Rush will take his chance in a Pattern race during the Goodwood Festival. If he is successful, it is extremely unlikely he would take up his engagement in the Tote Ebor at York.

15 July 2008.

Harness Race At Kempton Tomorrow.

After the completion of the normal flat racing programme at Kempton Park tomorrow evening, the course will stage a fully competitive harness race.

For full details on the current betting, punters are advised to contact Coral, who are running an official book on the race.

14 July 2008.

Former Pupils Get Free Entry At Curragh Theme Day.

The Curragh meeting on 10 August celebrates the thirty fifth anniversary of Ireland's Race Academy and Centre of Education (RACE). During its history, the academy has been responsible for producing many leading jockeys, and its work in improving the skills of the individual has certainly brought benefis to the whole Irish racing industry.

All former pupils of RACE are entitled to two free tickets to the Theme Day, and these can be obtained by contacting the ticket office at the Curragh.

14 July 2008.

Ruby Setting The Pace.

Ruby Walsh seems determined to hold on to his Irish national hunt jockey's title, and this was evident from a determined series of rides which brought him a treble at Sligo on Sunday.

14 July 2008.

HRI Records Mainly Positive Results.

In its half year figures up to the end of June, Horse Racing Ireland has recorded positive results in virtually every catagory of racing.

Although only showing a marginal increase of 1,743, the overall number of people visiting race meetings did increase year on year. The number of race meetings, and horses in training also showed increases. Furthermore, despite an actual drop in the number of race sponsors, race prize money actually grew by six point six per cent, up to a new total of twenty seven million euros.

13 July 2008.

Moonstone Victory Rewrites Irish Records.

When Moonstone saw off her rivals in this afternoon's Irish Oaks, it created a piece of racing history. Trainer extrordinaire, Aidan O'Brien became the first inndividual in Irish horse racing history to train the winners of the first four Irish Classics in a single season.

Everyone at Racingsight wishes to pass on their congratulations to the Ballydoyle team, and in particular, the quiet genius at the helm of their world beating operations - Well done Aidan!

13 July 2008.

Ravens Pass A Runner Up Again!

In today's Group One Prix Jean Prat at Chantilly, the Freddy Head trained Tamayuz took the lead, and repelled the late challenges of Ravens Pass and the fast finishing Rio de la Plata.

Although a four year old, Tamayuz has been lightly raced, and certainly looks fresh enough to pick up further major prizes during the remainder of the flat season.

13 July 2008.

Red Roks Exposes Curlin Weakness.

Well, now we have an answer, Curlin does have a weakness! The American wonder horse attempted to turn his world dominance on dirt into total dominance on all types of racing surfaces. Unfortunately, the Man O'War Stakes proved on his first exposure to a grass track, he was no match for Britains Breeders Cup hero Red Rocks.

At no stage did Curlin look like winning, and this apparent failure on grass must now put serious doubts over Curlin's participation in the Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe.

13 July 2008.

Tote Give Windfall Despite Marginal Loss In Turnover.

Although the Tote suffered a one per cent loss in total turn over in the financial year ending 31 March, the gambling organisation has still presented an unexpected one million pound windfall donation to be shared by all the British racecourses.

12 July 2008.

Who Says Drifters Cannot Win?

Just a fortnight after Arc Bleu drifted alarmingly in the betting before winning the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle, the same thing happend to Archipenko in the Plymouth Gin Summer Mile at Ascot today.

Mike de Koch's charge drifted out on Betfair from five to one to sixteen to one, before settling back at fourteen to one.

Either way, these two concrete examples indicate the old adage of, "a drifter cannot win", is being thoroughly debunked in modern betting markets.

12 July 2008.

Zulu Held In High Regard.

Zulu Chief, who finished third in the Wood Ditton Stakes at Newmarket earlier in the season, and then followd up with a facile twenty length victory at Naas during the week, is a horse to watch.

The half brother to Hawk Wing, is held in high regard by both ballydoyle trainer Aidan O'Brien and stable jockey Johnnie Murtagh, and with a string of high quality entries for the rest of the season, he is a horse worth following.

12 July 2008.

Course Betting Drops In Ireland.

During the first six months of this year, on course betting in the Irish Republic dropped by fourteen per cent to around eighty two point seven million euros. Before any conclusions can be drawn concerning the affects of a worldwide economic slow down, it will be interesting to study the equivalent figures for telephone and on line gambling on horse racing for the corresponding six months.

12 July 2008.

Replacement Fixture For Gowran Park.

As rain and flooding caused the postponement of the Gowran Park fixture on 06 July, a revised fixture will be staged at the track on 05 August, thus creating a two day meeting over 05 and 06 August.

11 July 2008.

Fourteen Stand Their Ground In Irish Oaks.

In the Irish Classic which could see Aidan O'Brien set a record for four consecutive Irish Classic victories, fourteen fillies have stood their ground at the 48 hour decleration stage.

10 July 2008.

Third Highest Jackpot.

Today's Tote Jackpot reached its third highest figure of all time toppin out at a remarkable £1,695, 092.

Although there were several winners, one canny telephone punter in Kent won over a quarter of a million pounds for a sixteen pound stake.

10 July 2008.

Massive Tote Jackpot Today!

A difficult time for punters at the first day of Newmarket's July Cup Meeting means a massive roll over of £868,754 on the Tote Jackpot. It is now possible today's pot may reach one and a half million pounds.

10 July 2008.

Frankie To Ride Curtain Call.

Frankie Dettori will be teaming up with his old mentor Luca Cumani when he rides Curtain Call in Monday evening's Grand Prix de Paris at Longchamp.

10 July 2008.

Gold Award For Chester.

This weekend, Chester racecourse officials will receive the Racehorse Owners Association's highest accolade of its Gold Award. Hopefully, this will back up Chester's campaign to obtain more Pattern races in coming years.

10 July 2008.

Northern Racing To Manage New Racecourse.

Britain's second new racecourse at Ffoslas in South Wales, which is due to open for racing next year, will be managed by the Northern Racing Group.

10 July 2008.

Curlin Gets Go Ahead.

After a comprehensive work out on a grass surface, American wonder horse Curlin has been given the go ahead to run in this weekend's Man O'War race. Amongst his rivals will be british Breeders Cup hero Red Rocks.

If Curlin comes through this stiff test, and legal problems are overcome, he could well line up in this year's Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp.

09 July 2008.

Owners Enter Tote Debate.

The owners of race horses have now joined the remainder of the racing industry in open condemnation of the present government's plan to sell off the Tote.

It is now difficult to see how the government can progress with the plan without instigating open conflict with the whole racing industry.

09 July 2008.

Maguire Sidelined For Several Months.

Following his fall and multiple fractures sustained at Market Rasen on Sunday, jockey Jason Mcguire has been informed by his medical team, he will have to convalesce for several months before a return to race riding.

09 July 2008.

Possible Million Pound Jackpot At Newmarket.

The Tote Jackpot was not won at Pontefract yesterday. As a result, £521,541 rolls over to today's first day of the Newmarket July Meeting.

Dependant on the level of support, this means the Tote Jackpot for today's meeting could top the magic million pound mark.

08 July 2008.

Aidan O'Brien On Historic Brink.

Looking forward to this Saturday's Darley Irish Oaks at the Curragh, it is interesting to note, Ballydoyle maestro, Aidan O'Brien is on the brink of Irish training history. No other individual trainer has managed to saddle the winners of four consecutive Irish Classics, but O'Brien now has seven of the eighteen horses left in the race at the latest decleration stage.

His main challenge seems to be in the hands of Moonstone, the runner up in the Epsom Oaks, but as the Irish Derby proved, all of the Ballydoyle horses have a live chance of bringing O'Brien the unprecedented fourth consecutive Classic victory.

08 July 2008.

Frankie For The Jungle.

Based on the latest rumours, jockey Frankie Dettori is being lined up to appear in the hit television show, 'I'm a celebrity, get me out of here'.

On hearing the news, Coral bookmakers have already installed Frankie as the five to one favourite to come out on top.

08 July 2008.

Free Entry For Senior Citizens At Ayr.

At next Monday's Renault Vans Meeting at Ayr, the racecourse authorities are rewarding their regular senior citizen race goers by offering them free entry to the racecourse. To order tickets in advance, go to our Ayr racecourse page, and skip to the Contact section.

08 July 2008.

Curragh Going.

Despite the recent heavy rain, Curragh officials are indicating, the going for this weekend's meeting should be on the soft side of good.

08 July 2008.

Punishment Handed Out To Point To Point Ringers.

Following on from our news article of 26 June 2008. We can report on the punishment handed out to the four individuals involved in the Staintondale Point to Point Ringer scandal.

Robert Tierney, who was already serving a six year disqualification from horse racing for a similar incident, has had a concurrent disqualification of five years imposed for this breach of the rules of racing.

Roger Marley, the owner of the 'ringer' has been disqualified for two years, while the owners wife, Ruth Marley, and jockey, Charles Gundry have both recieved one year disqualifications.

08 July 2008.

New Facts About York.

Following a study undertaken by academics from York University, it has been concluded, in the last year, the Knavesmire generated over one thousand three hundred and fifty full time job years of work in the local economy, and was also responsible for an extra forty four million pounds of expenditure in the City of York.

One of the prime reasons for the economic success of the Knavesmire is its array of reknowned and popular races, and when York racecourse stages its early July fixture this weekend, the John Smith's Cup will be run for the forty ninth time, and this will make it the longest continuous sponsored race in the United Kingdom.

This year's race is worth over one hundred and fifty thousand pounds, and the winning owner will also collect the new specially designed Wedgewood Challenge Trophy.

07 July 2008.

Curragh Delay But Leopardstown Selected.

Horse Racing Ireland have delayed the start of the multi million pound redevelopment of the Curragh until the latter part of 2009. However, they have confirmed, Leopardstown will stage the Irish St Leger in 2009, and then all five of

the Irish Classics during the 2010 season.

07 July 2008.

Realistic Approach For Pipe Dreamer?

After failing to make the first two in Saturday's Coral Eclipse, trainer John Gosden has indicated Pipe Dreamer may be dropped a grade or two in an attempt to secure his first Pattern race victory.

07 July 2008.

Redford Will Move Up If Winning Again.

Having been made favourite for the Tote International Handicap at Ascot on 26 July, connections have indicated another win in handicap class will propel Redford into Pattern company.

07 July 2008.

Turbo Linn Retired.

The Lancashire Oaks, at Haydock on Saturday, has turned out to be Turbo Linn's swansong on the racecourse.

A prolific winner of quality races last season, although highly tried in her last two runs, she has not shown the spark of last season, and connections have made the sensible decision to retire her to the paddocks.

07 July 2008.

Six New Bank Holiday Fixtures.

The BHA have allocated six extra bank holiday fixtures for the 2009 season. This will include one fixture specifically ear marked for Scotland.

05 July 2008.

Mount Nelson Gives Bally Doyle Twelth Seasonal Group One.

Timing his run to perfection, jockey Johnnie Murtagh came on the outside of Henry Cecil's Phoenix Tower, and snatched the Coral Eclipse right on the line.

The victory represented Aidan O'Brien's twelth Group One training success during this season's flat campaign on either side of the Irish Sea.

05 July 2008.

Johnston Fortunes May Be Improving.

After a couple of months in the doldrums, trainer Mark Johnstone must have been very relieved when his Lovelace managed to win today's competitive Tote Swinger Handicap at Sandown.

The North Yorkshire trainer must now be hoping this victory marks a change in his fortunes, and his horses start to put in performances normally expected from this powerful yard.

05 July 2008.

Cumani Expects Mad Rush To Step Up.

Having kept faith with his Mad Rush during four successive second places, trainer Luca Cumani was delighted after his charge ran away with the Old Newton Cup at Haydock today.

After the race, Cumani indicated Mad Rush would now try his luck in Group races.

04 June 2008.

Pawan Gets His Head In Front At Last.

After two years of near misses, sprinter Pawan got his head in front of Phantom Whisper at Warwick last night. Ironically, it was exactly the same race where a year ago, he had been caught near the line, and relegated into his usual placed position.

04 July 2008.

Curlin Still Rated As World's Best.

Following the publishing of the World Racehorse Ratings for the period 01 January to 30 June, the International Federation of Horse Racing Authorities (IFHRA), still rate Curlin as the world's best horse.

In the younger generation, Big Brown (USA) and New Approach (Ireland) are jointly rated as the best three year old colts, while french trained Zarkava is rated as the top three year old filly.

04 July 2008.

Great Leighs Confirm InBev Deal.

InBev UK, the brewers of well known brands, such as Stella Artois, Bass, and Becks, have signed a three year deal with Great Leighs, the up and coming all weather track near Chelmsford in Essex.

The deal, believed to be worth nearly half a million pounds, gives InBev exclusive pouring and beer branding rights at the racecourse, but it is also a major financial boost to the racing programme.

In their first ten fixtures, Great Leighs have been able to offerthree hundred and ninety four thousand seven hundred pounds in prize money, and the InBev deal will greatly enhance the financial status of future racing - A situation which must please everyone in racing.

04 July 2008.

Lucky Seven For Stoute?

In a possible attempt to land the one UK Classic which he still has not won, Sir Michael Stoute has declared seven horses for the St Leger at Doncaster. Hiss challenge seems to be led by Patkai and Tartan Bearer, but it is probable he will have to overcome the massed ranks of the Bally Doyle racing machine.

03 July 2008.

Coral First To Offer Anti Post South African Market.

When opening betting on Saturday's Vodacom Durban at Greyville, Coral bookmakers today became the first UK based firm to offer an active anti post market on a South African Group One race.

Bearing in mind the success of South African trainer Mike de Koch, it is plainly a good move for punters who want to keep appraised of the performances of the top horses in world racing.

03 July 2008.

Free Entry At Musselburgh.

For the second year in a row, the bookmakers and on course caterers at Musselburgh racecourse are underwriting the early July racing fixture. This means all race goers can obtain free entry on Monday 07 July.

Sarah Montgomery, the Musselburgh Racecourse Commercial Manager is not only delighted with the generosity of the bookmakers and caterers, she is convinced this is the right kind of move if racing is to attract future generations to the sport.

03 July 2008.

Stratford Highlights.

On Sunday week, Stratford racecourse is staging its Birmingham Evening Mail Family Day, incorporating circus performances, an astr jet simulator, and a host of other family orientated entertainments. The following Sunday, 20 July, the course stages its annual Ladies Day, with over a thousand pounds up for grabs in best dressed competitions.

In addition, there is some excellent summer jump action featuring many of the top national hunt jockeys.

02 July 2008.

New Ten Million Sovereign Series For UK Flat Racing.

From 2010, and operating for an initial three year period, the leading racecourses in the United Kingdom are linking their prestigeous Group One flat races in a new Ten Million Pound Sovereign Series.

The competition will start with the Stan James 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket in May, and will conclude with the Emirates Airlines Champion Stakes also at Newmarket in October. The other races in the Sovereign Series are; The Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes at Newbury, the Derby at Epsom, the Prince of Wales Stakes at Royal Ascot, the Coral Eclipse at Sandown, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, the BGC Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, the Juddmonte International at York, and the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot.

In addition to the existing five million pounds of prize money for the above races, an additional five million will be added.

The most successful horse will be crowned as UK Champion, and will receive a bonus payment of two million pounds.

The underlying strategy behind the Sovereign Series is to revitalize enthusiasm amongst existing race goers, and to attract new converts to the excitement of top quality flat racing. To this end, a three million pound budget has been set aside for the marketing, promotion and production of the Sovereign Series both on and off the racecourses.

Racing UK have been selected to manage the broadcasting and multi media rights.

02 July 2008.

Ascot Pair Top Timeform List For Eclipse.

Based on their performances behind Duke of Marmalade in the Prince of Wales Stakes at Royal Ascot, Timeform have indicated Phoenix Tower, and Pipe Dreamer top the handicap for Saturday's running of the Coral Eclipse at Sandown Park.

02 July 2008.

Curlin Prepares Regardless.

Despite the legal doubts surrounding Curlin's participation in the Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe, the American wonderhorse is reported to have started his grass surface training in preparation for a run in Europe's mile and a half centrepiece.

02 July 2008.

Watergate Interest At Catterick.

For punters who like insight into future running plans, in the first race on today's card at Catterick, Watergate is an interesting runner, particularly as he has a Group One entry later in the season.

01 July 2008.

Winker Watson May Return At Chantilly.

After several delays, it is hoped Winker Watson, who was one of last year's top two year olds, will eventually make his seasonal debut in the Prix Jean Prat at Chantilly on Sunday 13 July.

01 July 2008.

Jump In National Hunt Fixtures.

After being in the doldrums just a few seasons ago, UK National Hunt racing seems to be going from strength to strength. This is reflected in the racing calendar for the coming winter jump programme, with yet another year on year increase, taking the figure up to a projected total of 566 scheduled fixtures.

01 July 2008.

Curtain Call Owners To Contest Irish Derby Placing.

After the unsatisfactory running of last weekend's Irish Derby, the owners of the Luca Cumani trained Curtain Call, are to make an official complaint about the result, with a view to requesting the Irish authorities to amend the placings achieved in the race.

At this stage, it is not certain as to whether this is a symbolic gesture, or a genuine attempt to force the Irish Racing Authority into a full investigation of the final placings in the race.

01 July 2008.

Channon Delighted With Youmzain.

After Sunday's victory in the Prix de St Cloud, Youmzain is reported by his trainer, Mick Channon, to be in top form, and he is expecting his five year old to improve even more as the season progresses.

01 July 2008.

Smith Makes It Four Top Jobs.

Having already held top jobs with William Hill, Ladbrokes, and Coral bookmakers, Mike Smith was yesterday appointed as the new Chairman of Totesport.

01 July 2008.

Blood Stock Companies Are Anxious But Hopeful.

As the Yearling Sales approach, many of the leading blood stock companies are hopeful they will not be adversely affected by the present economic slow down. We have a feeling, they may be right!

29 June 2008.

Frozen Fire Wins Unsatisfactory Irish Derby.

Although in the historic records, Aidan O'Brien will once more appear as the winning trainer of the Irish Derby, he must consider this to be a very unsatisfactory win by his Frozen Fire.

Most pundits will insist the best horse won on the day, but the way another Bally Doyle runner, Alessandro Volta, carried pre race favourite Tartan Bearer across the track in the final furlong, posed questions about the possible outcome of the race had this incident not occurred.

It seems likely, these questions will only be answered if the horses re-oppose each other in the St Leger later this year.

29 June 2008.

Legal Problems May Prevent Curlin Arc Bid.

At present in the USA, two of the minor owners of wonder horse Curlin are on trial for fraud. If convicted, this could produce legal problems which would prevent Curlin from competing in Europe, which would of course mean he would miss a chance to take on Europe's best in the Prix deL'Arc de Triomphe.

29 June 2008.

Cheltenham Racecourse Plan To Link Up With Cheltenham Town.

Cheltenham racecourse officials are to seek planning permission to build a ten thousand seater stadium on the racecourse, the stadium to be used by first division Cheltenham Town.

28 June 2008.

One Winner Of Scoop Six.

When Jamie Spencer steered Redford to victory in the Tote Swinger Handicap at Newcastle today, it ensured one punter secured the £711,831 prize pot of the Scoop Six.

It also gives the single winner a chance to top the million mark if he or she can select the bonus pot winner next Saturday.

28 June 2008.

New Approach Doubt For Irish Derby.

Trainer Jim Bolger last night admitted he is not entirely happy with New Approach's action. This potential injury scare creates doubts over New Approach's participation in tomorrow's Irish Derby.

The Epsom Derby winner does have an entry in the Coral Eclipse next Saturday at Sandown, so it is possible he could take up that engagement if injury prevents him from running tomorrow.

28 June 2008.

Scoop Six Predicted To Surpass One Million.

The Tote are expecting today's Scoop Six pot to surpass the magic million mark, and it could even reach record proportions.

28 June 2008.

Wild West Ffrench Wins On Sadeek.

Looking sure to win the last race on Sadeek at Doncaster last night, jockey Royston French suddenly felt his saddle slip. In wild west fashion he clung on to his mount's neck and still managed to pass the winning post in first place.

Apart from being a magnificent example of horsemanship, it brought a warm glow to all the punters who thought for a moment, their wager was slipping away.

28 June 2008.

Break For Legspinner.

Tony Martin has indicated his dual role horse, Legspinner, is to have a good break before reappearing at the Galway Festival later in the year.

28 June 2008.

Doncaster Stewards Hand Out Six Bans.

Yesterday's meeting at Doncaster wintnessed the racecourse stewards handing out riding bans for six jockeys. This included a twenty one day ban for Graham Gibbons.

27 June 2008.

Sublimity On The Move.

Former Cheltenham Champion Hurdle winner Sublimity is to leave John Carr's yard, and will now be trained by his owner's son, Robbie Hennessy.

27 June 2008.

Mine Nearly Worked Out.

Old campaigner, Mine, will try to win next month's Bunbury Cup for a record fourthe time, but regardless of his final position in the race, his connections have decided it will be his last race before a well earned retirement.

26 June 2008.

Mamlook Balloted Out Of Northumberland Plate.

David Pipe is probably feeling very disappointed tonight after his Ascot Stakes runner up Mamlook was balloted out of Saturday's running of the John Smith's Northumberland Plate at Newcastle.

David's father Martin had a good record with his runners in this long distance flat race, and David was probably very hopeful of a good run from Mamlook. Now he will have to wait for next year's race!

26 June 2008.

Point To Point Ring Confirmed As Corrupt.

After a four day hearing, the BHA Disciplinary Panel have confirmed, Robert Tierney, Roger Marley, Ruth Marley, and Charles Gundry have been confirmed as being responsible for a corrupt and fraudulent practise in relation to the rules of racing.

After the case was forwarded by the Staintondale Point to Point stewards, a thorough investigation has shown, the four conspired to run a 'ringer' in a race at the Staintondale meet. Further investigations have indicated this was not the first time the gang had run a 'ringer', and they must now await a suitable sentence from the BHA.

Editorial Note: There is no place in racing for this kind of practise, and we can only hope the four are warned off indefinitely.

26 June 2008.

Record Attendances For Ayr June Meeting.

Last Friday and Saturday's two day meeting at Ayr attracted a record June crowd of fourteen thousand four hundred race goers. In particular, the Friday Saints and Sinners Charity Night attracted a tremendous crowd of seven thousand eight hundred.

Ayr officials were delighted to announce, only the Ayr Gold Cup, and Scottish Grand National meetings surpassed this level of crowd support.

26 June 2008.

Worcester And Ayr Face BHA Investigation Of Blunders.

Having failed to correctly mark out the course for a race on 11 May, which caused two riders to stop racing, Worcester officials will have to face a BHA Disciplinary Panel.

Meanwhile, for failing to notify the Racing Department of the BHA about a training gallop by horses prior to the start of a race meeting, Ayr officials seem in breach of Rule 80, and will also have to face a BHA Disciplinary Panel.

25 June 2008.

Limerick Special Offer For July.

For every party of ten race goers who book a hospitality package in Limerick's Panoramic Restaurant for the two July fixtures, the racecourse are offering one of the places free of charge.

As demand is expected to be significant, early booking is recommended.

25 June 2008.

 

Curragh Expecting Record Audience.

Officials at the Curragh are hopeful of record crowds and television audiences for the three days of the Irish Derby Meeting. Certainly, the rematch of the first three horses home in the Epsom Derby is keenly anticipated, but the remainder of the card is also of the highest quality.

25 June 2008.

Take Over Target Campaign Halted.

Ladbrokes were obviously well advised when they withdrew Take Over Target from the July Cup betting, as it has been announced the Australian raider has suffered an injury, and this will prevent him taking his place in the highlight of Newmarket's July Meeting.

25 June 2008.

Spencer Bemused By Rift Rumours.

Jockey Jamie Spencer has stated he does not think there has been a break down in his relationship with trainer Luca Cumani, and he is bemused by press reports indicating such a rift has occurred.

25 June 2008.

York Hopeful Of New Lease.

York racecourse officials are hopeful there application for a new ninety nine year lease on the Knavesmire will be approved by a meeting of York Council next Monday.

 

24 June 2008.

Peeping Fawn Will Not Be Seen Yet.

Aidan O'Brien had planned to run multiple Group 1 winner Peeping Fawn in Sunday's Pretty Polly Stakes at the Curragh. Unfortunately, she is not as far forward as collection would like, and her seasonal reappearance has been delayed to a later meeting.

24 June 2008.

More Madness, This Time At Doncaster.

Seventies pop icons, Madness, are to continue their performances at race meetings, and they are due to perform after racing has been completed at Doncaster this coming Saturday evening. Tickets and full information are available from the racecourse.

24 June 2008.

Seb Saunders Keeps Ride.

After winning on Kings Gate Native in the Golden Jubilee at Ascot, jockey Seb Saunders is to be rewarded by keeping the ride on the talented three year old in the July Cup at Newmarket.

24 June 2008.

Cheltenham Plan Earliest Possible Commemoration.

Cheltenham racecourse officials have indicated very quickly, they plan to commemorate the life of bookmaker Fredy Williams at the earliest possible opportunity.

No Cheltenham Festival was complete without the ebullient Williams taking on the high rollers during the four days of the March meeting, and it is certain, Cheltenham will find a suitable way to commemorate his life and times.

24 June 2008.

Dettori Loses Appeal And Misses Curragh.

Jockey Frankie Dettori has lost his appeal against a riding ban, and as a result, he will miss this weekend's Irish Derby meeting at the Curragh.

23 June 2008.

Bookmaking Legend Freddy Williams Dies.

It is with great regret, we announce the passing of bookmaking legend Freddy Williams, who sadly died as a result of a heart attack on Saturday.

Reknowned for taking on the high rollers at the major meetings, Freddy was fearless, and a major personality in his own right.

Tributes from racing personalities, like J P Macmanus, have poured in to Freddy's scottish home over the last couple of days, and they are indicative of the whole loss felt by all of us involved in the racing industry.

23 June 2008.

Bookmakers Not Happy With Reserve Programme.

The use of reserve horses in the Britannia, Buckingham Palace, and Duke of Edinburgh Handicaps at Ascot have not pleased the bookmakers.

Although generally welcomed by owners and trainers, the system, which allows replacement horses to be entered in big handicaps up until eight thirty on the morning of the race, has been criticised by the leading bookmaking firms. They claim, the system, being trialed by the BHA, leeds to confusion amongst punters, and causes a deferment of some anti post betting.

23 June 2008.

Tote Announce Success Of Swinger.

Having launched their Swinger bet during Royal Ascot, the Tote have announced they are very happy with the take up on the new wager, and they are now confident it will become part of their future betting portfolio.

22 June 2008.

Baker Slices Into Stan James Dough.

One lucky Stan James punter had an early Saturday morning anti post two pound each way Lucky 15 on four of jockey George Baker's mounts at yesterday's Newmarket meeting. As Baker was on top form, even beating hot favourite B44 on his mount Dubai Princess, the punter collected a cool one hundred and twenty five thousand pounds of the bookmaker's dough.

21 June 2008.

Her Majesty's First Winner Since 1999.

When Free Agent stormed through his field to win the Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot today, it provided Her Majesty the Queen with her first Royal Ascot winner since Blueprint won the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes in 1999.

Although it is early days, this impressive win may mean Her Majesty has a possible contender for this year's major two year old prizes.

20 June 2008.

Ladbrokes Punter Scoops Record Complimentary Win.

Having recently introduced their 'Odds On Loyalty Card', Ladbrokes have seen one Glasgow based punter use his loyalty bonus of two hundred pounds to win a massive twenty one thousand pounds yesterday.

 

This is believed to the biggest win ever paid out on a complimentary bet.

20 June 2008.

Foley Was Negligent!

At yesterday's meeting of the BHA Disciplinary Panel, jockey Marcus Foley, and trainer Miss Tor Sturgis, were cleared of a charge of non trying.

The riding of Dabaratsa in the Mares Only race at Exeter on 14 May appeared to show Foley failing to obtain the best possible position in the race, and the Exeter stewards had therefore referred the incident for closer scrutiny by the BHA Disciplinary Panel.

Although the Disciplinary Panel cleared Miss Sturgis of all charges, and cleared Foley of a charge of non trying, they did find the jockey's riding of the mare had been extremely negligent, and as a result, they suspended Foley from riding for fourteen days.

19 June 2008.

Yeats Reeks Poetic Revenge On Bookies.

The bookies tried to convince us, Coastel Path was the up and coming star, and we would all be wasting our money supporting Yeats for a third successive year in the Ascot Gold Cup.

Well, we did not listen, and Yeats was heavily supported, and duly obliged!

Paddy Power have admitted losses of over one million Pounds on Yeats's success. While Ladbrokes have indicated, Yeats's victory, along with wins for the first two favourites on the Ascot Thursday card, have left them licking their wounds.

Apart from bringing pain to the bookies, Yeats's triumph today brought a lump into the throat of most of the avid racing fans at Ascot, and his strength, determination and class will be remembered for a very long time!

19 June 2008.

Haradasun Retired To Stud.

After adding another Group 1 race to his impressive portfolio at Ascot earlier this week, Haradasun has been retired from racing, and is to return to his native Australia, where he will commence stud duties later this year.

18 June 2008.

Marmalade For The Punters, Jam For The Bookies.

When Duke of Marmalade gave the punters a major boost when easily seeing off his rivals in today's Prince of Wales Stakes, the leading bookmaking firms could be excused for quaking in their boots. Apart from huge single bets, many multiple bets were riding on Bankable in the Royal Hunt Cup. But true to form, when the bookies look ready to suffer a bllod bath, the 'sure thing' fails to deliver, and although Bankable was the first horse home on the far side of the Ascot straight course, the problem was, there were four ahead of him on the near side of the course.

So, although the punters enjoyed the Marmalade, the bookies got away with the jam.

18 June 2008.

Jockeys Take The High Road.

Ten of the leading northern jockeys taking part in racing at Musselburgh on Friday are to have a helicopter ride from the afternoon fixture at Musselburgh to the Saints and Sinners Charity race night at Ayr.

Lothian helicopters have been chartered by Musselburgh racecourse to ensure the jockeys miss the cross country mayhem of Friday night traffic, and arrive in plenty of time to put on top class racing at an important charity racing event.

17 June 2008.

Missoula A Thousand To One In Running.

Once the dust had settled on the Ascot Stakes, it seems four pounds was matched on Betfair on Missoula's in running maximum odds of one thousand to one.

Well done someone, and can we borrow your crystal ball for the rest of Royal Ascot?

17 June 2008.

Musselburgh Support For Macmillan Cancer Charity.

For every person who passes through the turnstiles at Musselburgh racecourse prior to the start of racing on 30 June, the racecourse management are donating one pound per head to the Lothian region of the Macmillan Cancer Charity.

Apart from six competitive races, the racecourse are also hosting a County Food Fair, featuring some of the superb fresh produce of the Lothian region. In addition, for punters who cannot get enough racing, a local Haddington farmer is also supplying the sheep to compete in a, 'Sheep Race'.

It is hoped the race goers of Scotland, and northern England, will flock to the meeting, and boost the final figure presented to the Macmillan Charity.

17 June 2008.

4 Reasons Why Bookies May Face Huge Losses.

There have always been well supported favourites at Royal Ascot, but this year there are four rock solid favourites, which if they all win, could signal huge losses for the leading bookmaking firms.

Bankable in the Royal Hunt Cup, Henry the Navigator in the St James's Palace Stakes, Fleeting Spirit in the Kings Stand Sttakes, and Duke of Marmalade in the Prince of Wales Stakes have already received huge anti post support. It is expected this support will be mirrored on course, and it will be a brave bookmaking firm who bucks the trend of a small starting price for any of the four horses.

If all the above named horses are successful, it could cost the bookmaking industry their biggest combined loss for any single UK race meeting.

16 June 2008.

Paddy Power Suggest White Is The Colour.

In their famous annual bet on the colour of Her Majesty the Queen's hat for Ladies Day at Royal Ascot, bookmakers Paddy Power make white their five to one favourite. The other apparent 'in colours' for this 'season', purple and silver, come in at six to one joint second favourites.

15 June 2008.

Premature Retirement For Queens Best.

Queens Best, a previous Group 3 winner, and an entrant for this year's Pretty Polly Stakes at the Curragh, has been forced into premature retirement by injury.

Trained by Sir Michael Stoute, the filly has suffered a long term injury, and the decision has been made to retire her to stud.

15 June 2008.

Kevin Lee, A Sad Loss To Racing.

One of the owners of Greenwich Meantime, the Chester Cup winner in 2007, Kevin Lee, has sadly passed away aged fifty five.

A popular figure on northern racecourses, and a real lover of horse racing, Kevin's untimely death represents a sad loss to the whole racing industry.

14 June 2008.

The Toteswinger Comes To Town.

For the first time since the Scoop Six in 1999, from the first day of Royal Ascot, the Tote are intriducing a new bet into the british market. Called the Toteswinger, from Tuesday 17 June, it will apply to all british horse races containing six horses or more.

The bet offers three prizes, and all punters have to do is select either the first and second, first and third, or second and third horses in a single race.

The bet is very popular in other parts of the world, particularly South Africa, and this will allow for worldwide link ups, and therefore, larger pots and increased liquidity during the early days of the bet.

Apart from all Tote facilities, punters will immediately be able to place the bet with Betfair, and all William Hill betting shops. A few days later, Coral betting shop punters will also be able to place the bet.

14 June 2008.

Market Rasen Debut Victory For Derby Winner.

Having been chosen to train 2005 Indian Derby winner Southern Regent, Alan King obtained an instant return for connections when his new charge got home in the last few strides to winn a two mile hurdle race at yesterday's Market Rasen meeting.

14 June 2008.

Last Night's Timeform Dinner.

At last night's Timeform dinner in York, Middleham stalwart Jock Bennet was named as Pride of Yorkshire for his contribution to racing. In addition, national hunt owner, Trevor Hemmings, was announced as Personality of 2008.

The annual auction and raffle at the dinner raised over one hundred and ten thousand pounds for charity.

14 June 2008.

ATR Website Coverage Of Ascot.

For punters who like to study the form on-line while they enjoy their racing, they will be glad to know, At The Races are to provide free coverage of all five days of Royal Ascot via their website.

14 June 2008.

Morris Suspended Under Totting Up Procedure.

Following an incident of careless riding aboard Lordship on 03 June, jockey Luke Morris had been referred to the BHA Disciplinary Panel as he had already served twenty four days of suspensions over the previous twelve months.

At the BHA Disciplinary Panel meeting, despite legal representation, Morris was suspended for one day for Careless Riding, and a further twelve days under the totting up procedure. Although two of the days of the suspension will be deferred, Morris will be sitting on the sidelines for eleven days at the end of this month.

13 June 2008.

No Common Factor At Sedgefield.

In today's BHA report on the tragic deaths of twelve horses at Sedgefield between March 2007 and March 2008, no common underlying factor could be found to explain the deaths.

Having considerd each case in detail, the BHA sub committee decided the track was safe, and that each fatality was due to differing events and, in some cases, underlying biological conditions.

The report tries to indicate in no uncertain terms, the investigation was thorough, and the conclusion was based entirely on the evidence available.

13 June 2008.

Sun Follows Saints And Sinners.

For the first time in forty two years, the Saints and Sinners Charity Night is being held at Ayr racecourse instead of Hamilton Park. The popular occasion amongst Scottish race goers will be held on Friday evening 20 June, and will form the first day of a two day meeting.

The Saturday 21 June meeting is sponsored by the Scottish Sun newspaper, and Channel 4 will feature the first two races on a strong racing card.

12 June 2008.

Slight Amendment To Finishing Distances Followin Trial.

As we reported earlier in the year, from 25 February, the BHA have been conducting a trial concerning official finishing distances based on the length of time between each horse passing the winning post. As we reported, the new system took into account the ground conditions, and using a precise formula, they were able to work out finishing distances more accurately.

However, having had several months of practical trials of the new system, the BHA have decided to fine tune some of the time to finishing distance results on certain types of going. This revised formula will be used for the first time on 15 June.

It is believed this fine tuning should make the new assessment of finishing distances extremely accurate for future races, regardless of the underfoot conditions.

11 June 2008.

Large Prize Money Boost For King George.

Ascot racecourse officials have announced a one hundred thousand pounds prize money boost for their mid summer centrepiece of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Now with total prize money in excess of eight hundred and fifty thousand pounds, it puts the race back on par with many of the world's leading Group One races.

It is hoped, the large cash reward will attract owners of the leading horses from both generations, and that the race will recover some of its former kudos.

11 June 2008.

Creachadoir Out For Season.

Godolphin have today announced, Lockinge winner Creachadoir, is to miss the rest of the season due to injury.

With Ramonti already missing from the Royal Ascot line up, this was another blow to Godolphin, just when their form in big races had started to improve.

11 June 2008.

BHA Tests On Foreign Raiders Prove Negative.

Like last year, the BHA undertook random substance tests on the Royal Ascot bound foreign raiders who are currently stabled at Newmarket. The tests, which took place on Monday, all proved negative.

With rules on permitted substances varying from country to country, the BHA were just ensuring a level playing field for all runners at next week's flag ship event.

11 June 2008.

New Trophy, But The Same Runners.

For this year's running of the newly sponsored Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, in addition to the one point five million euros in prize money, the winning connections will pick up a magnificent new trophy. Designed by Waterford Crystal, the twenty two inch symbol of victory will be engraved with celtic symbols plus platignum paint, which is applied using a revolutionary new production technique.

It also seems, race goers will be treated to the first three home in the Epsom Derby, New Approach, Tartan Bearer, and Casual Conquest, reopposing over the Curragh's less eccentric mile and a half course.

11 June 2008.

Bath Ladies Evening.

The ladies of the west country should note, the annual Bath racecourse Ladies Day takes place on 25 June, with prizes being on offer for the best outfit an the best hat.

10 June 2008.

Emirates Airlines To Sponsor Breeders Cup Turf.

It has been announced today, the Dubai based airline, Emirates, has agreed with Breeders Cup Limited to become the title sponsor of the three million dollar Breeders Cup Turf. The deal will commence from this year's running of the race.

10 June 2008.

Listener In Shock Move.

In a shock announcement, top steeplechaser, The Listener, is to be moved from the Robert and Sally Alner stable, and will now be trained by Nick Mitchell.

10 June 2008.

Sarah Montgomery Moves To Musselburgh.

Sarah Montgomery, who was formally the Commercial Manager at Hamilton Park, has moved to Musselburgh, where she has replaced Claire Shepherd, who is now Chief Executive of Plumpton racecourse in Suxxex.

10 June 2008.

Ayr Secure Extra Fixture For One Hundred Pounds.

Following on from our recent news article, in which we indicated the BHA were auctioning three national hunt fixtures to Northern racecourses.

Ayr have secured an extra fixture on 03 January 2009 for a bid of around one hundred pounds in prize money. This is ideal for Ayr, as it now gives them a two day fixture on January second and third, which ties in with the Scottish New Year holidays.

10 June 2008.

Nahoodh Moves To Johnston Stable.

Nahoodh, who was fifth in the 1,000 Guineas, and a disappointing favourite in the Irish 1,000 Guineas, has been moved from Mich Channon, and has now joined the yard of Yorkshire trainer, Mark Johnston.

10 June 2008.

Fashion In The Garden.

Known to all regular race goers as Yorkshire's Garden Course, Ripon is to stage its annual Ladies Day on Thursday 19 June. As part of the festivities, the racecourse is staging a fashion show in a Marquee prior to racing, and of course, there will be a best dressed lady competition throughout the meeting.

To round off prceedings, tribute band Badness will play a set of Two Tone and Scar classics after the completion of racing.

09 June 2008.

Three 2009 National Hunt Fixtures Open To Bidders.

The BHA is looking for bidders from racecourses north of a line from North Wales to the Wash for three national hunt fixtures for the 2009 season.

This is the first time a bidding competition of this type has been attempted on racing fixtures, and it will be very interesting to gauge the response of potential bidders.

09 June 2008.

Kinsella Joins Jefferson.

Trainer Malcolm Jefferson has appointed Paul Kinsella as his new stable jockey, the appointment to begin with immediate effect.

09 June 2008.

This Year's Royal Ascot Presenters List.

In line with tradition, Her Majesty the Queen will present the prizes for the Ascot Gold Cup and Golden Jubilee Stakes, with the Prince of Wales presenting the prize for the race run in his name.

However, other members of the Royal Family and leading figures from the racing industry, will be joined on the presentation platform by many leading personalities from film, television, and sport, including; Richie Benaud, Dame Judy Dench, Sir Donald Sindon, Sir David Frost, Cilla Black, Dame Helen Mirren, Michael Owen, and former leading athlete Edwin Moses.

09 June 2008.

Timeform Rating On New Approach.

After Saturday's Derby, Timeform have rated New Approach at 131. Taking into account the weight to age ratio, this makes him level with impressive Coronation Cup winner Soldier of Fortune.

09 June 2008.

Timeform Charity Day At York.

Since its inception, the Timeform Charity Day, organised jointly between Halifax based Timeform, and York Racecourse, has raised over 4 million pounds for charities.

This coming Saturday's meeting is extremely well supported, with a new record of over two hundred thousand pounds in win and place prize money. This includes the one hundred thousand Betfair 3 Year Old Sprint, which is the most valuable Uk based sprint race staged during the season for three year olds.

09 June 2008.

New Zealand Stud For Red Clubs.

Former top sprinter Red Clubs is to undertake stud duties in New Zealand for at least the next six months.

09 June 2008.

Decision On New Approach Stud Career Delayed.

Sheikh Mohammed has decided not to decide at present. He will put off his options on New Approach until the end of the season, and only then will he decide if the Derby winner will continue racing as a four year old, or whether he will start an early stud career.

09 June 2008.

Cumani Blames Epson Undulations.

Luca Cumani believes Curtain Call did not handle Epsom's undulating course, and as a result, his colt did his best in impossible circumstances.

It will remain to be seen if he puts in better performances on flat courses later in the year, or whether he is just not up to Group One standards.

09 June 2008.

Cecil Says Multidimensional Was Sore.

Henry Cecil explained, the poor performance put in by Multidimensional at Epsom was due to sore shins, and he believes after a rest, his colt will put in better performances later in the season.

07 June 2008.

Paddy Power Admit Big Loss On Derby.

Paddy Power, who is one of the most frank bookmakers, has announced this afternoon, New Approach winning the Derby has cost his firm around four million euros in pay outs to happy punters. This loss seems to be confined to the leading independant Irish bookmaker.

Although he says, "I will have to sleep in a tent tonight", we expect he will recover his losses in a short period of time.

07 May 2008.

Canny Betfair Customers Net 209 to 1.

It seems some canny Betfair customers had a wager on New Approach at a fantastic 209 to 1 last weekend. At that time, it was thought New Approach would not run in the Epsom Classic, so the punters deserve their winnings for their endeavour and risk taking.

07 June 2008.

Blythe Knight Earns National Hunt Retirement.

After winning the Diadem Stakes at Epsom for the second year in succession,trainer John Quinn has indicated, he will now retire his Blythe Knight from hurdling, will concentrate his nine year olds efforts on picking up some additional flat racing prizes.and will

07 June 2008.

Ramonti To Miss Ascot.

Godolphin officials have announced, their star miler, Ramonti, will not compete at this year's Royal Ascot Festival.

However, they are hopeful he will compete at Goodwood and York later in the year.

07 June 2008.

Sporting Index Persue Court Action.

Sporting Index are to take billionaire Dermot Desmond to court next month in an attempt to recover what they claim is a gambling debt of over seven hundred thousand pounds.

07 Ayr 2008.

Ayr Officials To Face Another Enquiry.

In addition to the ongoing enquiry over the abandonment of the early May fixture, Ayr officials are now to face a BHA enquiry into why a gallop was allowed to take place on the racing circuit prior to the start of racing on 29 May.

06 June 2008.

Global Trifecta Available On Oaks And Derby.

For the major races at last year's Royal Ascot meeting, Totesport offered the Trifecta bet on a global scale, and as a result, prize money for the bet increased by three hundred and eighty per cent.

The same global trifecta will be available on today's Oaks, and tomorrow's Derby. Full information is available from any division of Totesport.

06 June 2008.

Last Chance For Bus Transport To Musselburgh Tomorrow.

For tomorrow's sell out Ladies Day at Musselburgh, the racecourse management are laying on Express buses to transport race goers from Edinburgh Waverley Station to the racecourse. Buses leave the station at 12 noon, and return at 7 p m. The return fare is seven pounds, and tickets can be ordered on line up to midnight tonight.

06 June 2008.

This Bizzarre Season Continues!

We have already had wrong course, wrong jump, stalls, and in running calamities this season, but none as bizarre as the first race at Hamilton yesterday.

With the race seemingly at his mercy, the leader, Verinco, veered so sharply near the finishing line, he unshipped jockey Tom Eaves. As if that were not enough, he swerved so sharply, he also caused the inappropriately named Lucky Dan, to unship his jockey Andrew Heffernan, and thereby stopped him from winning the race.

Betfair later reported, the bizzarre incident caused a bllod bath amongst their 'in running' punters

05 June 2008.

Tajaaweed Seems Fine.

After suffering a set back in training earlier this week, Sir Michael Stoute's Tajaaweed was reported as coming through yesterday's training session with flying colours, and there seems no reason why he should not put up a good showing in the Derby on Saturday.

05 June 2008.

Power Have Inside Track On Curtain Call.

Bookmaker Paddy Power has reported this morning, he has had a good conversation with Bill Oppenheim, one of the co-owners of Curtain Call, and he has been informed connections are very bullish about their colt's chances in this Saturday's Derby. Oppenheim is quoted as saying, "at the very least, Curtain Call should beat all of the other british colts in the race!"

05 June 2008.

Enjoy The Fun Of Themed Nights In Yorkshire.

For race goers who enjoy the fun of a themed evening at the races, Yorkshire courses give you two opportunities in the next four days. Starting with a 1950's night at tomorrow's Doncaster meeting, and continuing with an Irish theme at Pontefract on Monday.

The racing is good too. Indeed, Monday's Pipalong listed contest at Pontefract has produced some outstanding fillies in the last few years.

04 June 2008.

Two Bookings For Dettori.

Frankie Dettori has picked up two very useful rides on both sides of the English Channel. He has been chosen to replace Steve Drowne on Clowance in the Juddmonte Oaks, and he will also partner Starlet for Royer du Pre in the Prix Diane.

04 June 2008.

Stewards Decide On a Maximum Of Three.

Following an internal report from the Panel of British Stewards, it has been decided to accept the recommendation for there to be a maximum of three stewards in attendance for any future on course Stewards Enquiries.

04 June 2008.

Indigestion Lands Worcester Sponsorship.

Famous race horse owner Jim Lewis was on holiday in Tenerife earlier this year, and as a result of a bad case of indigestion, he had popped into a local pharmacy. Quite miraculously, Tony Calvin of Betfair, who was on holiday with his family, came into the pharmacy at the same time.

Never one to miss an opportunity, Jim Lewis went into a full sales pitch as to why Betfair should renew their sponsorship of the Worcester card which featured a race supporting St Richard's Hospice, who gave such dignity and comfort to Jim's late wife Valerie.

Having been won over, Tony Calvin returned home and after twisting a few arms at Betfair, they are once again acting as sponsors for Saturday's fixture at Worcester.

04 June 2008.

Major Fashion Prize At Chester Ladies Evening.

Cheshire ladies never need an excuse to dress well, but during the Ladies Evening at Chester on 10 June, they will have a double incentive, as the racecourse is staging its annual Best Dressed Lady Competition.

As if encouragement were needed for the ladies to look fantastic, there is a first prize of a four thousand pound Almond Resort's Caribbean Holiday, plus runners up prizes.

04 June 2008.

Race Card Prize For Go Racing in Yorkshire Festival.

The Go Racing in Yorkshire Festival starts at Ripon on 19 July, and ends at Pontefract on 27 July. Race goers attending the nine meetings will now have a double incentive to purchase a race card. Each card will have a serial number, and at the end of the Festival, a winning number will be drawn, with the lucky number holder winning a luxury two day break to Fairyhouse racecourse in Ireland.

03 June 2008.

Heavy Rain Forecast For Epsom.

The british weather could now throw another twist into the markets for the Epsom Classics. With heavy rain today, and a forecast for more downpours later in the week, we may see the late withdrawal of entrants with stamina doubts.

Whatever the news, you will find it first on Racingsight.

03 June 2008.

BHA Seek Tote Clarification.

Following on from a recent meeting of leading racing groups, the frustration over the lack of disclosure, and also the indecision surrounding the proposed sale of the Tote has spurred the chairman of the BHA into action.

Nick Coward has now made it known, he has written to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and has asked them to explain their plans regarding the proposed sale of the Tote.

From an editorial point of view, Racingsight shares the frustration over the lack of government policy on this matter, for a strong Tote, with a definite direction can only be good for racing.

03 June 2008.

Good News About Power.

It has been reported, jockey Ian Power, who suffered serious head injuries during a fall at last week's Tramore fixture, is responding to treatment, and is happily on the long road to recovery.

03 June 2008.

McCarthy Deserved Ten Day Ban.

For clearly failing to ride out during a race on yesterday's Leicester card, jockey Adrian McCarthy has fully deserved the ten day ban imposed by the Leicester stewards.

In view of the intense scrutiny which is applied to modern racing, it seems such an action is not only disrespectful to punters, it is plainly stupidity on the part of the jockey.

03 June 2008.

Pivotel Scores A Treble.

Fifteen year old sire, Pivotel, has just completed a most unique treble. Three of his offspring, Falco - French 2,000 Guineas, Halfway to Heaven - Irish 1,000 Guineas, and now Briseidas - German 1,000 Guineas, have completed a European Guineas treble.

02 June 2008.

Huge Tote Placepot.

After some very long priced horses were placed in the latter races at today's Carlisle meeting, a sixty five pence stake picked up forty two thousand one hundred and ninety one pounds eighty pence, which represents the fifth biggest pay out on the Tote Placepot.

As the winning stake was below one pound, there will be a roll over, with tomorrow's Placepot starting with twenty thousand two hundred and twenty eight pounds already in the kitty.

02 June 2008.

New Approach Takes His Chance At Epsom!

Since the twenty first of April, connections of New Approach have been indicating the colt would not run at Epsom in the Derby. In fact, he had been pushed out on the Betfair betting exchange to two hundred and nine to one.

So, at today's five day decleration stage, it was a great suprise to learn from trainer Jim Bolger, the runner up in the british and irish 2,000 Guineas will probably take his chance in Saturday's race.

At the start of the season, many punters had surmized from his glittering two year old career, New Approach would make a perfect Derby horse, and many held good betting price vouchers for a run in the Derby. The same punters are now rushing around trying to find their original slips.

For those who have not yet had a wager on the Derby, you can find the latest anti post prices for New Approach in our 'Lastest Betting Section'.

02 June 2008.

Prix de Jockey Club.

Yesterday witnessed an unexpected victory forVision D'Etat in the French Derby. Famous Name was a close second, and this performance is a boost for the chances of Casual Conquest if he eventually runs in the Epsom Derby.

The Newmarket 1,000 Guineas winner Natagora put up a good performance to finish third in a race were she was competing against some smart colts.

The favourite, High Rock, was a disappointing fourth.

01 June 2008.

Colt To Be Supplemented For Epsom Derby.

The owner of River Proud has announced he will supplement the colt for the Epsom Derby at tomorrow's five day decleration stage.

Having had a good two year old campaign, and then a fast finishing third on his three year old re-appearance in the French 2,000 Guineas, the Paul Cole trained colt must have each way possibilities in what appears to be a below par Derby field.

01 June 2008.

Cecil Declares He Is Very Satisfied.

Although many pundits believe Kandahar Run is Henry Cecil's substitute runner in this year's Derby field, the trainer seems quite bullish, and has indicated he is very satisfied with the colt's preparation for the mile and a half Group One.

01 June 2008.

Injured Jockey In Stable Condition.

Following the serious head injury he suffered during a fall at Tramore on Friday, jockey Ian Power is reported to be in a stable condition in an ICU.

021 June 2008.

Dobbs Fail Breath Test.

After failing a routine breath test, jockey Pat Dobbs was stood down for his rides at yesterday's Goodwood meeting.

01 June 2008.

Fahey Blames Administration Error For Wrong Horse.

After it was discovered Optical Illusion had been sent to the Haydock meeting last Friday evening instead of the intended Thunder Bay, internal investigations by trainer Richard Fahey and his staff have discovered a simple administration error had caused what could have been a very serious mistake. Luckily, pre race checks picked up the error before the wrong horse actually competed in the intended race.

01 June 2008.

Halabek Could Return This Week.

After two years absence from a race track, the once useful Halabeck could make his racing return in a listed contest at Goodwood on Friday evening.

01 June 2008.

'Odds On' Loyalty Card Launched By Ladbrokes.

Ladbrokes are the first bookmaking firm to launch a loyalty card through their betting shops. The 'Odds On' card can be obtained from any Ladbrokes shop, and regular Ladbrokes punters are in line to pick up lots of bonuses.

As soon as they register for the scheme, participants receive 200 points on their card. Then for every one pound spent over a Ladbrokes counter, they receive one bonus point. When they reach 250 points, participants can obtain a five per cent bonus voucher on their winnings. At 600 points a ten per cent voucher becomes available. At 1,000 points the voucher is fifteen per cent. At 1,500 points the voucher is worth twenty per cent, and at 2,000 points, participants receive a free twenty pound bet.

The 'Odds On Card' can also be used as an account, so participants can deposit funds on to the card, and then use it on Ladbrokes' access ports through the internet, phone, text, and interactive television on KY Active, and Virgin Media.

Ladbrokes believe, in its first year of operations, the 'Odds On Scheme' will give punters around six million pounds in additional benefits. Spokesman David Williams said, "We are delighted to be the first british bookmaker to offer a loyalty card, and we feel just prior to Derby weekend is the perfect time to launch this new beneficial scheme."

31 May 2008.

Listowel Ladies Day.

As part of its two day Irish Bank Holiday meeting, Listowel stages its annual Ladies Day tomorrow, 01 June. For full details on availability of remaining entrance tickets, contact the racecourse.

31 May 2008.

Tote Jackpot Defies Economic Climate.

Thursday's roll over Tote Jackpot at Great Yarmouth was the ninth biggest ever recorded by Totesport. Nearly five hundred and sixty five thousand pounds was wagered on Thursday alone, and the total pool was well in excess of a million pounds.

It may well be, the UK is in the middle of an economic slow down, but on this evidence, the betting industry is still booming.

31 May 2008.

No Blame Or Punishment For Sandown.

After considering reports from Sandown officials and stewards, and from Peter Hobbs, the British Horseracing Authority's Inspector of Racecourses, the BHA have decided no blame, and therefore, no punishment can be given to Sandown for the abandonment of racing after the third race on 21 May.

The racecourse has an exempilary record of maintenance of its turf track, and the BHA decided every possible action had been taken to ensure a sound racing surface for the twenty first of May. Unfortunately, prevailing weather conditions on the day of racing were atrocious, and for safety reasons, the racing officials at Sandown had no alternative but to stop racing after the third race.

31 May 2008.

Casual Conquest Decision On Monday.

Racingsight has learnt, a decision on Casual Conquest's participation in the Epsom Derby will be made this coming Monday. Apparently, the decision is a genuine 50 50, but we are sure most of the leading bookmaking firms will open a book on the decision. Indded, Betfair have indicated Casual Conquest is no longer Derby favourite on their exchange, which indicates Betfair punters do not think Casual Conquest will not be supplemented for the Epsom Classic.

31 May 2008.

Oxx Concerned About Katiyra Experience.

Trainer John Oxx has been honest enough to admit, he is not sure whether Katiyra has enough racing experience to cope with the Epsom track, but as the man said, "there is only one way to find out!"

31 May 2008.

We Were Right!

At Racingsight, it is not our usual practise to blow our own trumpet, but our straw poll of race goers, undertaken at the beginning of the week, proved correct in relation to the proposed changes to the Rule 4 deductions.

It now seems the proposition was so unpalatable to punters and bookmakers alike, it has been dropped, and the authorities have gone away for a rethink.

31 May 2008.

Dettori To Ride Natagora.

After searching all week for a top jockey, the connections of Natagora have secured the best possible partner for their filly. Frankie Dettori has now been booked to ride the three year old in tomorrow's Prix de Jockey Club (French Derby) at Chantilly.

31 May 2008.

Cape Amber Impresses!

In a pre Oaks work out yesterday, Jamie Spencer was impressed by Cape Amber, and expects her to put in a good showing in next weekend's Oaks Stakes.

30 May 2008.

Casual Conquest A Likely Epsom Runner.

Dermot Weld has let it be known, he will encourage connections to supplement Casual Conquest for the Epsom Derby. In response, the leading bookmaking firms have tightened the colt into worthy short priced favouritism for the Classic race.

30 May 2008.

Bankable Puts Reputation On The Line.

The short priced Royal Hunt Cup favourite, Bankable , is to put his tall reputation on the line at Goodwood tomorrow afternoon. If he is a good winner, the current five to one could look a long price by tea time tomorrow.

29 May 2008.

Epsom Doubts About Henry The Navigator.

With the current going at Epsom being very soft, Aidan O'Brien has indicated this morning, he is unlikely to run Henry the Navigator in the Derby unless there is a dramatic drying out of current under foot conditions.

Being a son of King Mambo, the three year old will be pushing his stamina to get a mile and a half under good going conditions, but soft going could scupper his chances of staying the trip.

In response to the news, Totesport have immediately removed Henry the Navigator from their Derby market.

29 May 2008.

Chinese White Impresses.

In a gallop at Leopardstown last night, Dermot Weld's Chinese White was said to be very impressive in her work outa major gamble for the Oaks., and as a result, she has been the subject of

29 May 2008.

Massive Tote Jackpot At Great Yarmouth Today.

A one hundred to one winner in the fifth race at yesterday's Great Yarmouth meeting put an end to all interest in yesterday's Tote Jackpot.

However, with a compound roll over fund of four hundred and fifty nine thousand pounds for today's card at Great Yarmouth, it is possible the eventual figure for today's winners could be near the magic million.

28 May 2008.

Coral Offer Early Concession.

In an attempt to get the stagnant Derby and Oaks betting markets on the move, Coral have taken the unusual step of offering a money back guarantee on non runners as from 5 p m this afternoon. This concession is being instigated well in advance of normal starting dates for such concessions, but Coral feel the market has to be stimulated, and they feel this is the right way to do so.

28 May 2008.

Tote Sale Could Be Delayed.

With cold financial winds swirling around the UK economy, it is rumoured the government is thinking of delaying the proposed sale of the Totesport organisation until such time as there is an improvement in the current economic climate.

28 May 2008.

Bookmakers Unenthusiastic About New Rule 4 Deductions.

Following on from yesterday's news article, where we indicated our straw poll pointed to unhappiness amongst punters over the new Rule 4 deductions. It now seems, the bookmaking firms ar also unhappy with the new formula, and they believe it could effect their off course turn over.

28 May 2008.

Epsom Experience For Curtain Call.

One of the leading fancies for the Derby, Curtain Call, has had a training gallop on the Epsom track. Connections believe experience of the quirky course could be invaluable to his chances in the big race.

28 May 2008.

Big Tote Jackpot At Yarmouth Today.

Interest in yesterday's Tote Jackpot at Chepstow only lasted until the fourth race, so a pot of a quarter of a million pounds rolls over to today's card at Great Yarmouth. As the races appear a little easier to predict, it is probable the interest will be substantial, and the final jackpot should top three hundred thousand pounds.

28 May 2008.

Great Leighs Card Could Be Cancelled.

On 20 April, when the British Horseracing Authority gave the go ahead to racing at Great Leighs, they did so on the understanding there would be completion of certain outstanding on course works by today 28 May.

Two of these outstanding projects, namely; the access road for emergency vehicles, and the Judges tower, still remain uncompleted.

After an inspection yesterday by Nicky Carlisle, the BHA's Inspector of Courses, it was decided to give the racecourse until nine o'clock this morning to ensure the outstanding work is completed. If it remains unfinished, the BHA will have no alternative but to cancel today's fixture.

Racingsight will keep you informed of all the latest news on the possible cancellation.

27 May 2008.

Northumberland Plate Premier Tickets Near Sell Out.

Newcastle racecourse officials are advising potential race goers, there are only a limited number of Premier Enclosure Tickets still available for Northumberland Plate Day on 21 June, and to be sure of securing a ticket, potential clients are advised to make urgent connection with the racecourse ticket

office.

It is expected fifty thousand spectators will attend the three day festival, and for race goers who may be unlucky in their efforts to secure a Premier ticket, they should note, Grandstand and Paddock tickets for all three days are still available, and they may be purchased in advance or on each of the three days of racing.

27 May 2008.

Thirsk Promote Stubbs Exhibition In York.

The premier race on Thirsk's evening card on 02 June is the Stubbs in York Exhibition Handicap Stakes. The race not only offers owners and trainers some useful prize money, it also brings attention to the current exhibition of paintings by the famous equine artist, George Stubbs, which is currently on display at York Museum.

The exhibition contains many of Stubbs's equine masterpieces, including probably his most well known painting, Whistlejacket.

27 May 2008.

Punters Not Happy With New Rule 4 Deductions!

In a straw poll conducted by Racingsight, which asked if punters were happy with the new sliding scale of Rule 4 Deductions, punters have indicated dissatisfaction with the premise that, on average, they are going to lose an extra four pence on every pound wagered when a fancied horse is withdrawn.

27 May 2008.

Slippery Ground Causes Last Race Abandonment.

In the interests of safety, Leicester had to abandon their last race on yesterday's card. The ground on the home turn had become so slippery, it was deemed unfit to race, and on this occasion, full commendation must be given to racecourse officials for making the correct and safety first call.

27 May 2008.

Connections To Appeal Tuscan Evening Demotion.

Following the decision by the Curragh stewards to demote Tuscan Evening in the Irish 1,000 Guineas finishing order, connections have indicated they are ready to appeal the decision to the Irish Turf Club.

27 May 2008.

Oxx Happy With Katiyra.

John Oxx is said to be very happy with the preparation work undertaken by the Aga Khan's Katiyra in her training programme prior to the Epsom Oaks.

Some of us are old enough to remember similar comments about Jet Ski Lady, who was a fifty to one winner of the Classic for Oxx nearly twenty years ago.

27 May 2008.

Chapple Hyam And Chandler Fall Out!

For unspecified reasons, bookmaker Victor Chandler has fallen out with trainer Peter Chapple Hyam, and as a result, three year old colt, Fireside, and an unraced two year old, have been moved to the yard of Michael Jarvis.

26 May 2008.

Ayr Given The Go Ahead.

Last week's abandonment fiasco at Ayr was put firmly in the past, as the track was today given the green light to race this coming Thursday, 29 May.

The BHA track inspectorate walked the course with Ayr officials this morning, and there was confirmation, the unsafe patch of ground, which had caused last week's abandonment, had been fully rectified.

If the current weather forecast holds true, Ayr officials expect the course to ride good to firm.

26 May 2008.

Bolger Records His Two Thousandth Winner.

when his bottom weight, Teacht An Earreig won the premier handicap at yesterday's Curragh meeting, training maestro, Jim Bolger recorded his Two Thousandth Winner under rules.

26 May 2008.

Fallon Rides Preparation Gallop On Papal Bull.

Papal Bull is currently being trained for a possible run in Epsom's Coronation Cup, and because of his sound knowledge of the horse's quirky character, Kieran Fallon is the work rider chosen to complete the horse's preparations on the Newmarket gallops.

26 May 2008.

Great Leighs Comprimise Over Jockey Concerns.

Showing a great deal of common sense, officials at Great Leighs have listened to the concerns expressed by jockeys about maximum field sizes in five furlong sprints at the Essex track. As a result, the maximum number of runners in such races has now been set at fourteen for all future contests.

25 May 2008.

Everton F C Aid Dwyer Fast Recovery.

With the help of physiotherapists at Everton Football Club, jockey Martin Dwyer is making a fast recovery from the ankle ligament damage he suffered during a gallops accident at Lambourn. If he continues to respond to current treatments, Dwyer is hopeful of returning to race riding this coming Saturday, 31 May.

25 May 2008.

Derby News From The Stoute Camp.

Sir Michael Stoute has indicated he is happy with Tartan Bearer's training regime, and he expects the colt to go to Epsom in top form.

It has also been announced, jockey Kieran Mcevoy will ride the supplemented Doctor Fremantle in the Epsom Classic.

25 May 2008.

Australian Sprinter Makes History.

Apachee Cat became the first horse in 50 years to win five successive Australian Group One sprint races. He completed this historic milestone when winning the Doom Ben 10,000 Sprint during yesterday's meeting at Brisban racecourse.

24 May 2008.

Epsom Next For Henry?

After completing the Newmarket and Curragh 2,000 Guineas double, the Aidan O'Brien trained Henry the Navigator has already booked a future stud career. So connections seem to think they have nothing to lose from letting the horse take his chance in the Epsom Derby.

Based on the current reaction from the bookmaking firms, it seems his participation in the Epsom Classic is a foregone conclusion.

24 May 2008.

Silly Season Continues!

In a week of unbelievable racing mishaps, the trend continued when Ruby Walsh took the wrong course during the closing stages of a race at last night's Stratford meeting.

It had all started so well for Ruby. He had ridden a winner for Paul Nicholls in an earlier race, but when driving home Gallic Dawn, he was riding with his head down, and failed to avoid the newly positioned water jump during the run in to the winning post. His mount negotiated the jump, and although they finished second in the race, they were disqualified for taking the wrong course. In addition, Ruby picked up a fourteen day ban from the racecourse stewards.

Although Ruby was not riding for his stable, trainer Paul Nicholls was furious after the incident, saying he had warned the Clerk of the Course, "the new positioning of the water jump was an accident waiting to happen".

Having lost both of his retained jockeys to wrong course incidents in the last six days, Nicholls could be accused of sour grapes, but once again we come back to the role of officials. When ever these type of incidents occur, they tarnish the image of racing, and the officials must ask themselves, 'Could we be partly to blame for these occurrences?

23 May 2008.

Racing Silly Season Continues.

After Sam Thomas's wrong course antics at Fakenham, and the strange abandonment of the meetings at Ayr and Sandown, racing's silly season continued at Salisbury last night.

Much to the consternation of punters, having loaded the horses too early in the Bathwick Tyres qualifier, the starter was forced to let the horses go three minutes before official post time.

 

It must be said, if this catalogue of errors continues, some investigation of the role of racing officials must take place!

23 May 2008.

Sir Gerry Mystery.

After a pre race training session, the connections of sprinter Sir Gerry were said to be very happy with his form, and they expected a strong run in this weekend's Temple Stakes at Haydock. Then on Friday afternoon he was withdrawn from the line up, and most anti post punters are bewildered by the unexpected decision.

23 May 2008.

Doubts About Famous Name.

The participation of Famous Name in tomorrow's Irish 2,000 Guineas will depend entirely on the state of the ground. Connections have indicated the colt will be withdrawn if the going becomes too quick.

23 May 2008.

Sixties Icon Earns Ascot Run.

After coming through his confidence booster at Goodwood with flying colourse, former Group One winner, Sixties Icon has booked his passage to a Pattern race at Ascot's Royal Meeting next month.

22 May 2008.

 

 

Madness At Aintree.

Following racing at Aintree's pre summer break meeting on 13 June, iconic pop group Madness are to give a ninety minute live performance. Naturally, this combined programme has proved very popular, but apparently, there are still a few tickets left for those who have some cash in their baggy trousers.

22 May 2008.

A Weird And Wonderful Race At Bath.

The first race on Bath's fixture on 01 June will certainly bring a smile to the faces of all race goers. Twenty pantomime horses will compete over a special course at the Lansdown track.

Now, we cannot offer any tips for this event, but we are sure it will raise lots of much needed cash for the Ashley Brixey Horse World Fund.

22 May 2008.

Technical Glitch Delays Tote Payout.

Due to technical difficulties, the Tote were unable to provide the winning dividends on the Tote Placepot, and Tote Quadpot, at last night's Sedgefield meeting.

The problem has since been rectified, and winning punters who placed their bet through a bookmaking firm can now claim. For winning on course punters who could not claim last night, they should follow the instructions on the back of their winning tickets.

22 May 2008.

Major Boost For Pattern Race Prize Money.

The Betting Levy Board has responded positively to the recent BHA report on the future of racing. They have allocated an additional six point seven million pounds as prize money for the remainder of the 2008 racing season.

Due to the way prize money for major races in the United Kingdom has become dwarfed in comparison with similar races in France and Ireland, the bulk of this new investment will be directed at Pattern races. The sound thinking behind this move is to ensure the prize money for the top races should be commensurate with the ability of the competing horses.

The additional investment will mean the following in practical terms:

Listed race prize money will rise by 54% to an average of forty thousand pounds, Group 3 prize money will rise by 38% to an average of sixty five thousand pounds, and Group 2 prize money will rise by 25% up to an average of one hundred thousand pounds.

There will also be additional funding for national hunt races, with average prize money for each race rising by 17% over the remainder of 2008.

22 May 2008.

Polo At Chester.

After a successful introduction last year, Chester racecourse is once more hosting the Coutts Bank sponsored two day International Polo Competition.

Due to its ampitheatre attributes, Chester racecourse is ideally suited to holding the competition in its in field area, as all spectators are assured of excellent views.

The competition will feature many leading national and international riders, with two semi finals taking place on Friday 30 May, and the final on Saturday 31 May. Tickets for each day are only ten pounds, and youngsters under fifteen obtain free entry. For full details, you are advised to contact Chester racecourse.

22 May 2008.

Mid Life Crisis At Ripon.

Following their attractive racing programme on Friday evening 04 June, as part of their Rock at the Racecourse policy, Ripon racecourse are featuring an after race concert by the band, Mid Life Crisis.

21 May 2008.

Condon To Replace Dobbin.

Trainer Nicky Richards has selected Davy Condon to replace the retired Tony Dobbin as his stable jockey.

21 May 2008.

American Import Star To Debut At Curragh.

Last year's Breeders Cup Juvenile Champion, Now Now Now, is to have his european debut for trainer David Watchman in this Saturday's Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh.

21 May 2008.

Thundering Star Starts South African Raid.

Top South African trainer, Mike de Koch, is to start his raids on this summer's european races with a visit to Sandown.

Thundering Star has been supplemented for the Henry the Second Stakes at Sandown on Saturday week, and he will be the first of several raiders attempting to take european plunder back to South Africa.

21 May 2008.

King Plans Raid On France.

After taking some of the major races at the British and Irish racing festivals, trainer Alan King has now set his sights on French prizes, and on Sunday, his Cheltenham winner, Nenu Phar Collonges, will be the stable's first runner in France.

20 May 2008.

A New Go Racing In Yorkshire Summer Festival.

As part of a new summer festival, between the nineteenth and the twenty seventh of July, the eight Yorkshire based racecourses will stage a total of nine race meetings. Race goers making an advance booking for a County ticket or its equivalent, will receive vouchers for reduced admission to many of Yorkshire's prime tourist attractions, including; Lightwater Valley Theme Park, Jorvik Viking Centre, Harewood House near Leeds, and The Deep in Hull.

By combining racing with reduced admission to other Yorkshire tourist attractions, it is hoped the new Festival will encourage families throughout the UK to try a Yorkshire summer vacation.

20 May 2008.

Ayr Start Flat Season Tomorrow.

In a well supported seven race card, Ayr racecourse stages its first 2008 flat meeting tomorrow afternoon, 21 May. The feature race is the D M Hall Handicap, which gives the sprinters an early outing over the five furlong straight course.

20 May 2008.

Two Supplemented For Irish Guineas.

Newmarket 2,000 Guineas third, Stubbs Art, and Godolphin's Ibn Khaldun, have both been supplemented for the Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh.

20 May 2008.

Evening Debut At Pontefract.

Pontefract stages the first of its three evening meetings this Friday, 23 May, and the racing highlight is the Youngsters Condition Stakes. In the past, this contest has seen the debut of some very useful types, and it is certainly a race which should be viewed, and then recorded in racing notebooks.

19 May 2008.

Fakenham To Discuss Circuit.

After Sam Thomas incurred a seventeen day ban for taking the wrong circuit at Fakenham, racecourse officials will investigate the instructions given to visiting jockeys, as they want to prevent this kind of incident from happening again.

19 May 2008.

No Blame For Johnston.

It appears Mark Johnston's Debonair, who was disqualified from his Great Yarmouth maiden win, after morphine was found in his blood sample, may have been the victim of contaminated feed. BHA officials have already stated, if this is the case, Mark Johnston will be cleared of all responsibility.

19 May 2008.

Betdirect Support Alan Ball Memorial Day.

This coming Wednesday, 21 May, Goodwood racecourse is staging the Alan Ball Memorial Day. As most people will know, Alan Ball was not only a great footballer, he was also a great supporter of horse racing. He would, no doubt, be very happy at the way his horse racing memorial day will help one of his favourite charities.

Bookmaking firm Betdirect are offering Alan's son Jimmy, a free two thousand pound bet on any race on Wednesday's Goodwood card. Any winnings he may make will be donated to the Sir Bobby Moore Cancer Appeal. Even if Jimmy is unsuccessful with his selection, Betdirect will cover the two thousand pounds, so this sum at least will be presented to the appeal.

The 5.10 p m race, which is named Evertonian Supporters Remember Alan Ball Maiden Fillies Stakes, incorporates one thousand pounds in added prize money presented by Everton Football Club, and a further five hundred pounds donated by two of Alan Ball's friends.

18 May 2008.

Epsom New Grandstand On Schedule.

Epsom racecourse officials have announced, the construction of the new grandstand facilities is right on schedule, and the building work should be completed in time for the start of next year's proposed racing programme.

18 May 2008.

Possible Excuses For Twice Over.

After admitting the ground and distance of the Dante Stakes were probably incorrect for Twice Over, the stable and connections have also learnt, the colt's blood work was also unsatisfactory following the York race.

Although he was a disappointing odds on favourite in the Dante, in the circumstances, punters may be prepared to give the Henry Cecil trained three year old another chance when he eventually makes his reappearance on a racecourse.

17 May 2008.

Johnston Eyeing Ayr Maiden Race.

Ayr stages its first flat racing of the current season on Wednesday 21 May. Middleham trainer Mark Johnston has three of his two year olds entered in the first race on the card, and it is believed this race could mark the unleashing of his smart junior performers for the 2008 season.

16 May 2008.

Unwelcome News For Mick Fitzgerald.

Mick Fitzgerald was hoping he would avoid any further surgery on his various injuries suffered during this year's Grand National. Unfortunately, he has recently learned he must undergo another operation on the ligaments in his knee.

16 May 2008.

Meehan Signs For A Further 3 Years.

Trainer Brian Meehan has renewed his contract on the famous Sangster family Manton stables, and will now operate out of his present yard for at least another three years.

16 May 2008.

Interesting Indications From Casual Conquest Owner.

A spokesman for the owner of Casual Conquest has indicated the supplemental fee for the Epsom Derby is not a problem, and that connections are keeping their options open.

Many may construe this to be some form of positive statement, but we will have to wait and see.

16 May 2008.

Hospitality Packages Still Available For Irish Derby Meeting.

Race goers who fancy a trip to the Irish Derby meeting between 27 and 29 June, still have time to book restaurant and hospitality packages for each of the three days of racing.

For those wanting to save a few euros, Curragh admission tickets for each of the three days of racing are ten per cent cheaper if you book on line, or use your mobile phone to contact, www.ticket-text.com

16 May 2008.

Musselburgh Sprint Trophy Travels To York.

Aisling Friel, the former Miss Scotland, is the glamarous companion accompanying the National Express East Coast Sprint Cup on its journey from Edinburgh to York on Sunday 18 May. The trophy, which is normally awarded for a race at Musselburgh, is moving to its temporary home at York's Knavesmire racecourse. The five furlong sprint, which is worth fifty thousand pounds in prize money, is the highlight of York'snew May Spring Weekend Festival on 31 May.

This Sunday's promotion highlights the expansion of sponsorship by rail carrier National Express East Coast. From this season, the carrier will be sponsering race meetingsat York, Newcastle, Doncaster, and of course Musselburgh.

As a point of interest, the rail company are offering some fantastic deals to race goers on the east coast mainline, including a first class return from Edinburgh to York for as little as fifty two pounds.

15 May 2008.

Tartan Bearer Upsets Derby Market.

The win by Sir Michael Stoute's Tartan Bearer in today's Dante Stakes at York has caused a major upset in the anti post market for the Epsom Derby. Prior to the race, Henry Cecil's Twice Over was a warm order favourite for the Derby, but unless the prevailing ground conditions at York are used as an excuse for the poor performance by Twice Over, it seems certain he will be removed from the Derby betting market.

15 May 2008.

Musselburgh Now Sold Out.

Further to our news article yesterday. We must now inform potential race goers, Musselburgh's Ladies Day meeting , on 07 June, is sold out. this is the second year in a row the racecourse have been faced with this most pleasant dilemna.

15 May 2008.

Review Endorses Sport's Regulators Actions.

Following the January 2008 collapse of the prosecution brought by the City of London police into race fixing, the racing authorities commissioned a report into their role in the ill fated prosecution.

The Neville Review into the integrity of racing has concluded, "the approach

adopted by racing is a model for the effective investigation of corruption in sport".

The report also endorsed the sports regulators actions since 2003, and then went on to make sixteen recommendations to ensure continual evolution and development of the regulators role.

15 May 2008.

Magnificent Milestone For Stratford.

The forthcoming two day meeting at Stratford on 23 and 24 May, will witness the Fiftieth annual running of the Pertemps People Development Group Cup Champion Hunter Steeplechase for the Horse and Hound Cup.

The race continues to rank alongside the Aintree and Cheltenham Foxhunter events as one of the three major prizes available to the trainers of Foxhunter Chasers. Indeed,prize money on offer this year is a fantastic forty thousand pounds.

15 May 2008.

Superb Prize Fund At Curragh.

Apart from the fascinating rematch between New Approach and Henry the Navigator, the two day Irish Guineas meeting at the Curragh on 24 and 25 May, will have a superb total prize fund of one point six million euros. Taking into account the world wide economic climate, it shows the confidence which still exists in Irish horse racing.

15 May 2008.

Epsom Unlikely For Lush Lashes!

Based on information coming out of the Lush Lashes camp, it is more probable yesterday's Musidora Stakes winner will take her chance in the Irish Oaks rather than the Epsom contest.

15 May 2008.

Phoenix Tower Impresses.

In his final preparation gallop for Saturday's Lockinge Stakes at Newbury, it is reported Phoenix Tower was very impressive, and Henry Cecil is quietly confident the colt can maintain his unbeaten record.

15 May 2008.

Weld Delays Final Decision.

Dermot Weld has indicated he will not make a final decision on the Epsom Derby participation of Casual Conquest until after the Irish Guineas meeting at the Curragh on 24 and 25 May.

This delay is likely to force the leading bookmaking firms to create two books for the race - one including Casual Conquest, and one without his participation.

15 May 2008.

Stud Farewell For Storm Cat.

At the ripe old age of 25, leading USA sire Storm Cat has been retired from stud duties. Although he won over half a million dollars during his racing career, it is remarkable stud career which will mark him down as one of the best breeding sires in modern racing history.

14 May 2008.

Murphy And Lavelle Not Punished.

After long deliberation the BHA Disciplinary Panel have decided to take no further action over Timmy Murphy's riding of the Emma Lavelle trained Regal Quote at Sandown on 22 February 2008.

After a full investigation of the facts, the Panel decided the pair were not in breach of the rules relating to non triers. However, they did point out Timmy Murphy's quiet style of riding was potentially a case of, "walking a tightrope".

14 May 2008.

Charity Launches New Website.

The Retraining of Racehorses Charity has today launched its new website. For all those interested in the work undertaken with horses who have finished their racing careers, you can find out about the charity's work on; www.ror.org.uk

14 May 2008.

Ground Must Be Suitable For Twice Over.

Connections of Craven Stakes winner Twice Over, have indicated his participation in tomorrow's Dante Stakes is dependant on there being no jar in the York underfoot conditions.

14 May 2008.

Saddlers Wells Still Making His Mark.

It is worth noting, modern sire extrordinaire, Saddlers Wells, is still responsible for three of the leading fancies in this year's Epsom Derby.

When the history of horse racing is eventually written about the last twenty years, Saddlers Wells will stand out as one of the leading sires of all time.

14 May 2008.

Stratford Racing Highlight.

Potential race goers are advised to make contact with Stratford racecourse if they want to ensure tickets for the two evenings of the Pertemps People race meetings on 23 and 24 May. The meeting represents the highlight of the Stratford racing programme, and with one hundred and seventy thousand pounds of prize money on offer, it is sure to attract top runners from both sides of the Irish Sea.

13 May 2008.

Denman And Masterminded Top Awards.

At yesterday's Anglo Irish national hunt Racing Awards in Central London, the top award for Horse of the Year deservedly went to Denman.

The ceremony, which is jointly organised by the British Horseracing Authority, and the Irish Turf Club, coincides with the publication of the joint official ratings given to all national hunt horses in both countries. In the nine years the joint ratings have been operating, both Masterminded on 186, and Denman on 182, surpassed the previous best rating of 180, which was given to Moscow Flyer in the 2004 2005 season.

The ceremony also saw the presentation of the Order of Merit Award. After a titanic struggle between Kauto Star and Lough Derg, for the second year in a row, this was collected by owner Clive Smith for the over all efforts of his Kauto Star.

The other prizes were destributed as follows:

Best Chaser over 3 miles - Denman.

Best chaser over 2 miles- Masterminded.

Best chaser over 2 miles 4 furlongs - Kauto Star.

Best Novice Chaser - Tidal Bay.

Best Hurdler over 2 miles 4 furlongs - Inglis Drever.

Best Hurdler over 2 miles - Sizing Europe.

Best Novice Hurdler - Jared.

13 May 2008.

Old Timer Has Last Race At Kelso.

One of the old stalwarts of the northern national hunt scene, Harlov, is to have his last ever run at Kelso's final meeting before the summer break. At next Wednesday's meeting, 21 May, the thirteen year old will say his goodbyes by competing in the Charlie Brown United Order Foxhunters Steeplechase.

13 May 2008.

Fine and Disqualification.

In today's belated disclosure of the BHA Disciplinary Panel meeting from 02 May, it was revealed trainer Tony Carroll had been fined one thousand pounds for allowing one of his horses to run while still affected by a banned substance.

As a result of the finding, his runner, Bold Diva, was disqualified from her winning positions at Kempton on 09 January, and Southwell on 14 January 2008.

12 May 2008.

Musselburgh Near A Sell Out!

Further to our news article about Musselburgh racecourse's Ladies Day on 06 June. It appears there are only three hundred tickets left available out of a total allocation of eight thousand two hundred. So race goers aiming to attend this

meeting are advised to make urgent contact with the Musselburgh ticket office.

12 May 2008.

Australian Night At Bath Racecourse.

As the highlight of their Australian beach party night on Friday 06 June, Bath racecourse have secured the participation of australian tv icon, Rolf Harris. So after a great evening of horse racing, grab a few tinnies, and settle down for some proper antipodean entertainment!

12 May 2008.

Last Meeting Before Summer Break.

Race goers are reminded Fakenham stage their last spring meeting this coming Sunday, 18 May, before they take their summer recess from racing.

However, the course is no longer quiet in the summer months. In fact, on 31 May, Fakenham will host a Rock at the Races event. Full details are available from the racecourse offices.

12 May 2008.

Reminder To Wetherby Patrons.

Further to our earlier news announcement, race goers attending Wetherby on 22 May are reminded, due to the closure of the steeplechase track for the summer months, this fixture will feature hurdle races.

12 May 2008.

Sprinters Take Top Billing At Thirsk.

This coming Saturday, 17 May, Thirsk is featuring two handicap sprints, including the usually well contested five furlong Scarborough Handicap.

11 May 2008.

Anglo Irish Jump Awards.

Tomorrow evening, 12 May, at a London venue, the Anglo Irish Jump Awards for the 2007 2008 national hunt season will be presented to the various catagory winners.

Organised jointly by the British Horse Racing Authority and the Irish Turf Club, the award ceremony will be hosted by BBC racing commentator Claire Balding in front of an audience of two hundred leading owners and trainers.

The full results of the awards ceremony will be published on Tuesday morning.

11 May 2008.

Floods Still Having Repercussions.

Last year's flooding of the River Severn is still having an effect on racing at Worcester. Due to safety concerns about areas of the track, fields at today's fixture are limited to a maximum of twelve runners.

11 May 2008.

Longchamp Report Perfect Going.

Officials at Longchamp have reported the going for today's French Guineas races will be on the perfect side of good.

11 May 2008.

Curtain Call Goes Directly To Derby.

After opting out of a run at Lingfield yesterday, Curtain Call will now go straight to Epsom.

10 May 2008.

Record Crowds For Chester May Meeting.

Having posted two Full House signs on two of the three days of the meeting, Chester have announced a record crowd of 64,534 for the three days of their May meeting.

The above figure is an eight per cent increase on the 2007 figure, and once more it gives credence to Chester's request to stage more Pattern races during the flat season.

09 May 2008.

Cape Amber Decision Today.

A final decision on Cape Amber's participation in next week's Musadora Stakes at York will be taken after she undergoes a thorough workout today.

09 May 2008.

Unbelievable Fitzgerald Plots Return.

Mick Fitzgerald has indicated the horrific injuries he suffered during this year's Grand National will not deter him from race riding, and he is currently planning to get back in the saddle by October of this year.

09 May 2008.

Limerick Stages First Seasonal Race And Rock Night.

Next Thursday evening, 15 May, Limerick racecourse will stage the first of its five race and rock nights. After the full evening race card, race goers can stay on to enjoy a concert by Don Baker.

08 May 2008.

Murphy Could Face Lengthy Ban.

Over the next two days, jockey Timmy Murphy, and trainer Miss Emma Lavelle, face a BHA Disciplinary Panel concerning the running of Royal Quote at Sandown on 22 February. The enquiry will investigate possible breaches of the rules concerning non triers.

As Timmy Murphy has already been found in breach of these rules on two previous occasions in t