Racing Sight - for racing insight

NEWS PAGES.

Archive dating from July 2008 to December 2007.

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.

31 July 2008.

Yeats Becomes A Millionaire.

When Yeats won his second Goodwood Cup this afternoon, he joined the very exclusive club of horses who have won over a million pounds in win and place prize money.

The seven year old son of Saddlers Wellls took it up two furlongs from home and easily saw off the front running Tungsten Strike, who stayed on gallantly for second place.

31 July 2008.

BHA Comment On Panorama Corruption Investigation.

At the same BHA Disciplinary hearing mentioned above, trainer Mark Johnston was cleared of any involvement relating to morphine being discovered in an after race sample taken from his winner Debonnaire at Great Yarmouth racecourse on 28 April 2008.

It was later discovered, the banned substance had inadvertantly contaminated a batch of Bailey's horse feed used by the trainer, and that Johnston was in no way to blame for the incident.

Royal Ascot winner Missoula is no great fan of the current firm going, so connections have decided to give their horse a rest before planning a late season campaign which will probably include the Cesarawitch.

28 July 2008.

Jockeys Criticise Stewards.

After a record number of suspensions which were handed out by racecourse stewards during the month of June, leading jockeys have criticised the officials for what they see as 'over zealous punishments'.

26 July 2008.

Duke Too Strong For Bull.

The connections of former Ballydoyle trained Yellowstone have decided to by-pass the Ebor Handicap at York, and will now run Yelllowstone in the Irish St Leger.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 the last eighteen months, he could face an extensive ban from riding if found in breach of the same rules once again.

08 May 2008.

Fantastic Support For Musselburgh Ladies Day.

Musselburgh racecourse is due to stage its sixth annual Ladies Day on Saturday 07 June 2008, and despite increasing the racecourse capacity by one thousand on 2007 levels, the racecourse have announced they only have eight hundred tickets left for sale out of a grand total of eight thousand two hundred.

The racecourse ticket department are therefore advising all interested parties to make urgent contact if they want to be sure of a ticket.

The best dressed lady at this year's meeting will be presented with a Suzuki Swift super mini car which is worth eight thousand pounds. The racecourse are naturally grateful to Belmont Suzuki for this valuable form of sponsorship on the racecourse's prestigious Ladies Day.

08 May 2008.

Impressive On Gallops.

Prior to his run in next week's Dante Stakes at York, Henry Cecil's Craven winner Twice Over was said to be very impressive in a full gallop over nine furlongs during yesterday morning's training session at Newmarket.

Godolphin's Rio de la Platta was also said to be impressive in a five furlong gallop prior to his trip to Longchamp on Sunday.

07 May 2008.

Ascot Royal Meeting To Pioneer Reserve Runners.

In a first for british racing, Ascot are to allow reserve entries into three of their major races during the Royal Meeting.

the Britannia, Buckingham Palace, and Duke of Edinburgh races will allow reserve horses to replace non runners up to eight thirtyon the morning of each race.

Dependant on the success of this experiment, it could become common practise for major race meetings which cater for large fields of entries, and where horses are handicapped out of their intended target races.

07 May 2008.

Henry Matches George.

Following this year's 2,000 Guineas, Henry the Navigator has been given exactly the same post race rating asprevious Bally Doyle winner George Washington.

07 May 2008.

Curlin May Tackle European Rivals.

Connections have indicated, American wonder horse Curlin may take on the best horses in Europe in this year's Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp in October.

07 May 2008.

Four Day Ebor Meeting May Stay.

Due to impending alterations to the racecourse this autumn, York are to run a four day Ebor meeting in August. The extra day will include some of the major races which would have been lost during the course's closure.

However, York officials are indicating the response to the four day meeting has been so positive, they will aim to turn the four day August meeting into a permanent feature of their annual racing calendar.

07 May 2008.

Successful Appeals!

Dominic Fox has been successful in his appeal against a three day riding ban imposed by the Haydock stewards for a weighing in infringement.

Following discussions with BHA officials, Wetherby racecourse management have decided to curtail any steeplechases for the meetings on 08, 22, 29 May, and 05 June. These fixtures will now feature all hurdle and national hunt flat races.

This decision has been brought about by a combination of circumstances. Due to widening of the A1, a large section of the steeplechase track had to be rebuilt for the 2007 2008 national hunt season. Now, a late spring and heavy rainfall have affected growth on the steeplechase track. As a result, it has been considered prudent to allow this section of the course a full summer of recovery, and the first steeplechases will now be run at the 15 October meeting.

02 May 2008.

Muthabara Injury Concerns.

It seems John Dunlop's filly Muthabara has bruised her foot during a training gallop, and connections are waiting anxiously to see if she will be fit to compete in the 1,000 Guineas.

02 May 2008.

Ryan Moore To Ride For Ballydoyle.

Aidan O'Brien has offered Ryan Moore the opportunity to ride Savethisdancefor me in the 1,000 Guineas.

02 May 2008.

Conditions Improving For Ravens Pass.

Drying weather conditions are improving the chances that trainer John Gosden will allow Ravens Pass to participate in the 2,000 Guineas.

02 May 2008.

Major News From Ayr Racecourse.

Following final approval from South Ayrshire Council, it has been announced today, a multi million pound development of Ayr racecourse will commence as early as this autumn.

Building plans include the construction of a conference centre, cinema, public bar, restaurant, retail and housing units. When completed, the new amenities will turn Ayr racecourse into a major leisure centre, and this will compliment ambitious plans for future racing developments.

On that very subject, Ayr have also announced, brewers, and major racing supporters, John Smith's are to be the new sponsors of the Ayr Gold Cup.

02 May 2008.

Sky Figures A Boost To ATR.

During the first quarter of 2008, Sky television have announced an expansion of its viewing figures. The new total of 8.88 million gives horse racing broadcaster At The Races a larger potential audience for its services.

02 May 2008.

Musselburgh Add Champagne Bar To Their Facilities.

As part of an on going upgrade of their hospitality facilities, Musselburgh racecourse have announced the opening of a permanent Pommery Champagne Bar. The new amenity will serve a selection of champagnes and champagne based cocktails.

02 May 2008.

Ascot Hold Second World Wine Event.

The racing at Ascot on 10 May includes the Totesport Victoria Cup, which is usually a good guide to the Royal Hunt Cup at the Royal meeting.

However, for race goers who like experiencing new wines, there is a double incentive to attend the above meeting. By purchasing a £5 ticket to enter the Second Annual World Wine Event, race goers can taste up to 5 different wines from the many diverse wine producing nations of the world.

01 May 2008.

McKeown And Blockley Charged With Race Fixing.

Following lengthy investigation of strange betting patterns in races staged during 2004 and 2005, jockey Dean McKeown, and trainer Paul Blockley, have bothe been charged with race fixing offences by the BHA.

Both men have been told to seek legal representation as they will have to face a forthcoming BHA Disciplinary Panel as an initial stage in answering the charges.

01 May 2008.

The BHA have indicated they are going to close the loophole where horses can have a totally different handicap mark over hurdles and fences. This has long been a bone of contention with many in racing, and many trainers have indicated their approval of the move.

29 April 2008.

Yorkshire Races Old And New.

Saturday sees the staging of the totesport.com Thirsk Hunt Cup, a one mile competition which has a pedigree stretching back over a hundred years. While on Wednesday 07 April, Beverley stages its newest race. The Graham and Rosen Handicap Stakes is to be run over an extended mile, and brings with it, a welcome twenty thousand pound prize fund.

29 April 2008.

Former Lionheart For Hamilton.

Vivien Kyles, a former member of the Lionheart group which salvaged Livingston Football Club from administration, is to become the new Chief Executive of Hamilton racecourse.

Twice Over Misses Two Thousand Guineas.

The Henry Cecil trained Craven Stakes winner, Twice Over, has been ruled out of this year's 2,000 Guineas on Saturday week.

It seems connections are convinced he will perform better over a longer trip, and he would now seem a certinty for a tilt at a Derby run.

24 April 2008.

Beef or Salmon Retires.

Although it is true to say, ten time Grade 1 winner Beef or Salmon was not the force of yester year during the current national hunt season, he put in a good display to finish sixth behind Neptune Collonge in yesterday's Guinness Gold Cup at Punchestown.

Trainer Michael Hourigan said he was, "proud of the performance, and it was a fitting finale for a great horse."

Having earned his connections a small fortune during his racing career, Beef or Salmon will now enjoy a comfortable, and hopefully, long retirement.

24 April 2008.

The Allure Of Royal Ascot.

In recent years, Royal Ascot has attracted many foreign raiders to its leading races, but for the first time, the current decleration stage sees international entries in all of the Group 1 races at the royal festival of racing.

24 April 2008.

Bowen Plans Another Long Distance Raid.

Having won the Boddington's Durham National at Sedgefield on three previous occasions, including last year, Welsh trainer Peter Bowen has four horses entered in this year's race, which takes place on Tuesday evening 29 April.

It takes the horse box seven hours to travel the 325 miles to the racecourse, so the Bowen raiders like to take something back with them on the long trip home.

Southwell Punter Loses Out As Jackpot Rolls Over.

When the favourite Graylyn Ruby was beaten on a bob of heads in the last race at Southwell, a single punter lost out on a record win of over five hundred and thirty five thousand pounds in the Tote Jackpot Pool.

A fund of over three quarters of a million now rolls over to tomorrow's card at Nottingham, and the eventual Jackpot is expected to top well over a million pounds for tomorrow's races.

So remember, you have to be in it to win it!

22 April 2008.

Large Tote Jackpot At Southwell Today.

After an unsuccessful day for punters at Pontefract yesterday, a large roll over fund means the expected Tote Jackpot Pool for Southwell today could be in the region of three quarters of a million pounds.

22 April 2008.

Changes to Betfair Million Competition.

The million pound prize offered by Betfair for winning certain races during the national hunt season, and won by Kauto Star during the 2006 2007 season is to be amended for the 2008 2009 national hunt season.

To win next season's prize, a horse will have to follow the 3 - 2 - 1 formula as follows:

1. Finish in the first three of the Betfair Chase at Haydock in November.

2. Finish in the first two at any race at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

3. Win the 2009 John Smith's Grand National.

22 April 2008.

Kelso Start New Season With Evening Meeting.

Just three days after the start of the new national hunt season for 2008 2009, Kelso stage their first evening race meeting with a card worth around sixty thousand pounds on 30 April.

21 April 2008.

Bet fair Wins Second Queens Award.

It has been announced today, Betfair, the on line betting organisation, have won the Queens Award for Enterprise.

Having grown their business to over a million users, including forty per cent from overseas, the organisation have won their award in the category of Overseas Trade.

This is Betfair's second Queens Award, as they won the first award in 2003 for Innovation.

21 April 2008.

Totesport Keep Reinvesting.

Despite uncertainty over their future ownership, officials at Totesport are remaining true to their ideals, and they are constantly reinvesting in racing. Indeed, five of the seven races at this Saturday's fixture at Ripon are sponsored by Totesport. The highlight being the twenty thousand pound 2 mile TotesportBetxtra Handicap.

21 April 2008.

Aidan O'Brien did say we would not see his better two year olds until the end of April, but even so, he must have breathed a sigh of relief when Peter Tchaikovsky became his first two year old winner of the season at Saturday's meeting at Naas.

21 April 2008.

Great Leighs Gets Thumbs Up.

After its first meeting, Great Leighs has received a tremendous vote of approval by trainers and jockeys alike.

Trainer John Gosden went as far as to say he thought the polytrack surface was, "probably the best in the country".

20 April 2008.

Good Vibes About Great Leighs.

Coral have this afternoon reported the betting turn over on the inaugural meeting at Great Leighs was comparable with the betting turn over at the other UK meetings at Stratford and Wincanton.

It is also worth noting, top trainers sent horses to the first meeting, and top jockeys like Jamie Spencer, Ryan Moore and Seb Sanders were happy to take rides at the new Essex venue.

20 April 2008.

Rumours Of Another New Racecourse.

Today, as the first meeting goes ahead at the new racecourse venue of Great Leighs, rumours are spreading of another new track to be sited at Ffoslass in South Wales. If the rumours are to be believed, the new track will open during the 2009 season.

20 April 2008.

Kauto Cash Boost.

Despite having a relatively disappointing end to the national hunt season, Kauto Star retained his order of merit crown. The only other contender for this year's two hundred thousand pound pay out, Lough Derg, was very disappointing in yesterday''s Scottish Champion Hurdle, and he failed to achieve the first four finish he required to wrest the crown from Kauto Star.

20 April 2008.

Kerry Lads Retired.

At the age of thirteen, and after finishing runner up in a contest at Ayr on Friday, the Lucinda Russell trained Kerry Lads has been retired.

20 April 2008.

In these days when trainers and owners are complaining about the levels of prize money for Sunday racing, it is good to note, tomorrow's Totesport day at Stratford has two races with prize money in excess of ten thousand pounds.

18 April 2008.

Parade Of Champions At Sandown.

On the last day of the current national hunt season, 26 April, a parade of current champions will take place at Sandown Park before the start of the Gold Cup meeting.

Amongst the horses on parade will be; Catch It, Comply or Die, Denman, Kauto Star, and Neptune Colonge.

18 April 2008.

At Last!

Britain's first new racecourse for 81 years will stage its first meeting on Sunday 20 April.

At 9 o'clock this morning, the BHA safety officials gave the final go ahead to the first racecourse in the Northern Home Counties, and Great Leighs will now stage all weather racing on a polytrack surface for the first time this coming Sunday. Built on the old Essex Show Grounds, eventually, the course plans to stage around 60 fixtures a year, and there are even plans for a turf track in the coming years.

17 April 2008.

Great Leighs Has Provisional Go Ahead.

After a safety inspection by BHA officials this morning, Great Leighs can hold its first race meeting on Sunday, providing it can iron out five safety concerns by tomorrow morning.

Jockey Graham Lee, who broke his jaw in two places in early February, has been advised by the BHA medical examiner, he must wait until the start of the summer jumping season before he can recommence riding.

15 April 2008.

Chester Have A Point.

Once again, Chester racecourse officials have been unsuccessful in an attempt to gain more Pattern races for their season.

The course, which is nearly always full for its 14 days of racing, currently only has four Pattern races, and they all fall in the three days of the early May meeting.

It does seem to us at Racingsight, an odd situation where a well supported and financially secure racecourse is not allowed to stage more Pattern races, particularly when other venues with a greater number of Group races are not as financially secure and well supported.

15 April 2008.

Goodwood Has Responded To Criticism.

Last year, several jockeys stated their concern over the racecourse condition on the bend of the far loop at Goodwood.

During the last few months, the racecourse have responded by undertaking remedial ground works. They have now altered the camber of the bend, so it now slopes into the running rail, and this should improve the running and safety aspects of the far loop section of the racecourse.

15 April 2008.

Five Year Sponsorship Deal For Irish Derby.

During a press conference at the K Club today, it was announced airport retail organisation, Dubai Duty Free are to sponsor the Irish Derby for the next five years.

First run in 1866, for many years, the Irish Derby has attracted the top three year olds in europe. Previous winners include; Nijinsky, Shergar, Galileo, and Dylan Thomas.

14 April 2008.

Great Leighs Gets Go Ahead.

After full trials of the new all weather running surface yesterday morning, Great Leighs has been given the all clear by the BHA to begin racing.

This was a truly historic occasion, as it clears the way for the first brand new race track in Britain for over 80 years.

14 April 2008.

I am sure we speak for all our Racingsight regulars when we wish Mick a full and speedy recovery.

12 April 2008.

Fines Handed Out For Irregular Samples.

At the BHA Disciplinary Panel meeting last Thursday, two trainers were cleared of any serious mis-conduct, but they both received fines for mistakenly allowing their veterinary surgeons to administer banned substances to their horses.

Jeremy Noseda received a combined fine of one thousand two hundred and fifty pounds , and Amanda Perrett was fined seven hundred and fifty pounds.

Both trainers have been put on notice their horses may be subject to random testing during the next twelve months.

11 April 2008.

Floodlit Tracks To Fight Reduced Fixture List.

We reported earlier in the week, as part of its strategy to improve the quality of racing, the BHA has recommended a reduction of 14 evening fixtures for the coming winter.

However, the three floodlit tracks; Kempton, Wolverhampton, and the soon to open Great Leighs, object to the cut back, and intend to fight the recommendations by what ever means possible.

11 April 2008.

Record Breaking Punchestown Festival.

It has not even started yet, and already the Punchestown Festival is breaking all records for an Irish based national hunt meeting. The extended five day programme will feature 11 Grade One races, and over 3 million euros in prize money.

The quality of the racing is such, it has attracted top raiders from the UK and France, with the intention of taking on the cream of Irish racing on their own turf.

11 April 2008.

Lough Derg Attempt One Of The Ayr Highlights.

This year's two day Scottish Grand National meeting at Ayr will see record prize money of five hundred and sixty three thousand pounds,but the David Pipe trained Lough Derg will have his sights set on another prize.

If he can finish in the first two places in the Scottish Champion Hurdle, a race which procedes the Scottish Grand National, he will pip Kauto Star to the National Hunt Order of Merit title.

It is expected, Lough Derg's attempt, and of course the Scottish Grand National itself, will be watched by record crowds on and off the racecourse.

11 April 2008.

Compere Chosen For Bath Racecourse Miss Bath Contest.

Jamie Breese, of ITV's Everything Must Go programme is the lucky man chosen to compere the Miss Bath contest, which will take place in front of race goers at Bath's evening fixture on 22 April.

10 April 2008.

Hedge Hunter Is Retired!

After finishing once again in this year's race, former Grand National winner Hedge Hunter has been retired from racing.

10 April 2008.

Dobbin's Final Farewell.

As he bids farewell to the saddle at Carlisle this afternoon, it is fitting veteran jockey Tony Dobbin should ride his last races on a Northern track.

For so long on the northern racecourses, he has been the reliable jockey who helped punters to get out of trouble, and he will be missed by all of us!

09 April 2008.

Lee Still Hopeful.

After a visit to the BHA Medical Examiner, sidelined jockey, Graham Lee is hopeful of a return to race riding before the end of the current national hunt season.

09 April 2008.

Two Suspect Samples Will Generate BHA Enquiry.

After obtaining independant confirmation, the BHA have announced samples taken from two different race horses have proved positive for banned substances.

The samples were taken from; Night Crescendo, trained by Amanda Perrett, after the Bank of Scotland Investment Services Stakes at Goodwood, and Kafuu, trained by Jeremy Noseda, after the Turf TV Handicap Stakes at the Champions meeting at Newmarket in October 2007.

The circumstances behind these results will be investigated in a forthcoming meeting of the BHA Disciplinary Panel.

08 April 2008.

Mick Fitzgerald Could Be Moved.

It is reported jockey Mick Fitzgerald may have to undergo a further operation on his neck. This follows eight hourse of surgery on Sunday.

If all goes well, he could be moved from the Royal Liverpool to a hospital nearer to his home.

As of yet, no reports have indicated the long term effects of his fall from L'Ami in Saturday's Grand National.

08 April 2008.

Royal Ascot Innovations.

For the first time in its near three hundred year history, the first day of Royal Ascot, on 17 Jume, will see the meeting commence with three successive Group One races.

In the new running order, the Queen Anne Stakes will be followed by the King's Stand Stakes, and then the St James' Palace Stakes. The Coventry Stakes, which has started the meeting since 2003, will become the fourth race of the day.

In another innovation, much like the yellow jersey in cycling, the leading jockey at the Royal Meeting will wear a leader's armband. Each time a new leader appears at the top of the London Clubs International Charity Table, they will take over the wearing of the leader's armband.

08 April 2008.

Rock On At Ripon.

Ripon start their season with an afternoon fixture on Thursday 17 April, but for all those in search of a bargain, it is worth noting for all their evening, weekend, and bank holiday fixtures during 2008, race goers have the benefit of a free after racing rock concert.

08 April 2008.

Reward For Early Birds At Kelso Ladies Day.

The first one hundred and fifty ladies through the turnstiles on Kelso Ladies Day, Sunday 13 April, will receive a Goody Bag which includes shopping vouchers and a mini bottle of champagne.

A Best Dressed Lady competition will be held during the day's racing, and on the track, the race card includes the valuable Ashley Bank Investments Chase, worth over twenty five thousand pounds.

08 April 2008.

Punchestown Attract A New Generation.

On the final day of the Punchestown Festival, 26 April, the Punchestown racecourse management are running a fancy dress competition for any children attending the meeting. With some excellent prizes on offer, and a reduced price combined ticket available for two parents and a child of primary school age, the racecourse are certainly encouraging a new generation to sample the fun and excitement of horse racing.

08 April 2008.

BHA Plan For A Better Future.

In its long awaited plan for the future of british horse racing, the BHA have come up with a series of recommendations. In essence they fall into four main catagories.

They want to see a curtailment of evening racing during the winter months. This will primarily affect all weather floodlit fixtures.

In the second proposal, some Sunday's would be 'fixture free'.

Saturday fixtures are the flagship of british horse racing, and every attempt should be made to upgrade these fixtures to the highest level. In addition, the marketing and promoting of these fixtures should receive close scrutiny to ensure they attract the widest possible audience.

In the fourth proposal, horses rated under 40 in the current handicapping system should be excluded from flat racing by the start of the 2009 season.

Underlying these proposals will be an intention to improve the overall standard of horse racing, plus there will be an attempt to ensure a sensible geographical spread of racing fixtures in future years.

07 April 2008.

Rapid Lad Remembered.

Apart from the top billed York House Construction Handicap Stakes, a sprint over five furlongs, Beverley's first meeting of the season, on 16 April, also features a tribute to Rapid Lad.

Between 1983 and 1989, Rapid Lad won a phenomenal twelve races at Beverley, and the mile and a quarter Rapid Lad Handicap is a fine tribute to a wonderful horse.

07 April 2008.

Guest Keeps Working.

During the Aintree preliminaries last Saturday, former jockey and current trainer Richard Guest, could be seen helping to saddle his horses with the aid of crutches. It seems hard working Guest was continuing to function despite receiving a broken leg during a training ground accident last Thursday.

07 April 2008.

When Stan won at twenty five to one on yesterday's card at Aintree, the last ticket holders dropped out of the Tote Jackpot Pool. This means there is a roll over today of just over three hundred and seventy thousand pounds.

If there are no winners today, the Pool could be over a million pounds on Grand National day.

03 April 2008.

Paddy Power Offers Free Drinks For An Irish Win.

Irish bookmaking legend, Paddy Power, is basing his Liverpool headquarters in John Aldridge's bar, and he has been practising pulling pints, because he has promised, if an Irish horse wins this year's Grand National, he will buy everyone who enters Aldo's Bar a pint on Saturday night.

03 April 2008.

Philson Will Run!

With the defection of Ollie McGurn due to lameness, last year's Grand National fourth, Philson Run, will get the chance to compete in this year's race.

03 April 2008.

Kauto Set To Reassert.

Paul Nicholls believes Kauto Star is at full fitness, and should return to winning ways in today's Totesport Bowl at Aintree.

The only disappointment about the race is that the Cheltenham Gold Cup runner up will probably only face three other rivals.

03 April 2008.

After looking like he would miss out this year, last year's Grand National winning jockey, Robbie Power, has managed to secure the ride on outsider Nadover.

02 April 2008.

Ascot Host Countryside Race Day.

Friday 11 April is Countryside race day at Ascot, and apart from the twenty five thousand pound K Lift Veterans Chase, the Berkshire course is putting on a real show for parents and their holidaying children.

Highlights will include; a display of falconery , a pack of working hounds, an active chain saw sculpture display, ferret racing, and a display of sheep dogs at work.

02 April 2008.

Preventing Future Internet Conflict At Racecourses.

Several leading organisations in british horse racing have joined forces to look at ways of best ensuring the many internet wireless networks (wi fi) now operating on racecourses do not interfere with the smooth operation of established procedures.

In initial research, it was discovered, up to fifty different networks could be operating on a racecourse on any single race day. As they are potentially competing for the same band width, this could create complications for the successful functioning of essential race day services.

In a review set up by the BHA, and comprising delegates from; the Racecourse Association, the Tote, Jockey Club Racecourses, Arena Leisure, Ascot racecourse, and Wetherby's, has selected Redstone Converged Solutions to conduct a review of existing racecourse wi fi installations, and future service requirements.

01 April 2008.

Turko Now A Definite Runner.

Having secured the services of top jockey Richard Johnson, Paul Nicholls has confirmed Turko will run in Saturday's Grand National at Aintree.

01 April 2008.

This Time Retirement Awaits Beef Or Salmon.

Although changing their minds following his Irish Grand National flop, connections of ten time Grade One winner Beef or Salmon, have stated his run in the Guinness Gold Cup at Punchestown will definitely be his last run before retirement.

01 April 2008.

Next Tuesday's meeting at Sedgefield coincides with the north east school holidays, and to encourage parents to attend the 08 April meeting with their children, Sedgefield have laid on some fantastic entertainment.

The highlight must certainly be a Pig Race. Taking place in the middle of the racecourse, a selection of fine'porkers' from Joseph's Amazing Racing Pigs, will race over a hurdles style course towards the attraction of a trough full of food.

I suspect the pigs will certainly be quicker than some of the horses I have backed in the past!

31 March 2008.

Hurdlers May Be Worth Following On The Flat.

With the current soft and heavy ground conditions, it may be worth following hurdlers in flat handicaps at present.

As an example, on the heavy going at yesterday's Curragh meeting, the Charlie Swan trained Cricket Throw won the Irish Lincolnshire, with the Jessica Harrington Vaqueras a close runner up. Even third placed Victram had recently run in the County Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

31 March 2008.

Eventus To Sponsor Punchestown Race.

Eventus, the company who can supply the amazing facilities of a two storey marquee, have today agreed to sponsor the Champion Four Year Old Hurdle on Saturday 26 April at the Punchestown Festival.

31 March 2008.

Guinness Galway Hurdle Winner Found Dead.

Farmer Brown, the winner of the 2007 Guinness Galway Hurdle, who also finished eighth behind Catch It in this year's Champion Hurdle, has been found dead in his box.

31 March 2008.

Uncertain Future For Ashley Brook.

Former smart chaser Ashley Brook, failed to impress in a recent training gallop, and the decision has been made by connections to rest him for the remainder of this season.

An assessment as to his long term racing future will be made when he returns to training.

31 March 2008.

225 Years And Still Creating History.

As Brighton racecourse enters its two hundred and twenty fifth year, it is about to create a new piece of racing history.

Due to the delay in the opening of Great Leighs racecourse, Brighton has obtained an additional fixture, which will take place on Sunday 13 April. For this additional meeting, the Brighton racecourse officials have decided to offer free entry to all the Members and Annual Members of the other 58 UK racecourses.

To obtain their free entry, all UK badge holders have to do is telephone Brighton racecourse in advance of the extra meeting, and place an order for a ticket.

This is the first time such a free offer has been made available to the members of all 58 UK racecourses at the same time.

The meeting on 13 April will have a single enclosure, and for non members there will be a reduced entry cost of only ten pounds.

30 March 2008.

Irish Lincolnshire Favourite Raised In Weight.

After making an unusual mistake, the Irish handicapper has overnight raised the weight of Irish Lincolnshire favourite, Estrela Brage by nine pounds.

Trainer John Hammond was tight lipped about the decision, but it could have repercussions on the on course market for today's race.

30 March 2008.

Simply The Best!

With his imperious seven length win, Curlin proved in yesterday's Dubai World Cup he is the best race horse in the world, and his victory now also makes him the most valuable race horse on the planet.

30 March 2008.

Jay Peg Comeback Delights Betfair Punter.

After looking like he was beaten with a furlong to go in yesterday's Dubai Duty Free, South African trained Jay Peg battled back to victory, and one lucky Betfair punter had a twenty eight pound gamble on such an outcome at the exchange's maximum odds of nine hundred and ninety nine to one.

30 March 2008.

Training Session Delights Nicholls.

Paul Nicholls watched his stable stars, Masterminded and Kauto Star, as they completed a thorough pre Aintree training Session, and afterwards, the Ditcheat trainer was said to be delighted with their fitness and well being.

30 March 2008.

A Win For Sick Note Sher Beau.

Sher Beau has to be isolated in a field away from his stable mates as he is so prone to contracting infections.

Newcomers Day At Market Rasen.

As part of its programme to attract new race goers to Lincolnshire's only course, Market Rasen are to hold a Newcomers race programme as part of their fixture on Sunday 06 April.

Amongst the many activities on display for New race goers, there will be the opportunity to visit the start and weighing room, they can watch a fence being built, they can obtain instruction in the art of betting, and they can even watch the making of jockey's silks.

27 March 2008.

Curragh Redevelopment Confirmed.

It has been officially announced, although some minor work will occur during this current season, the Curragh racecourse will become the subject of major redevelopment work soon after the final meeting on 30 September 2008.

The redevelopment will turn the Curragh into one of the leading sporting and leisure venues in Europe, the work being completed during the 2010 season.

27 March 2008.

The New Face Of Ascot!

During the Royal Meeting at Ascot in 2008, a search of the public enclosures will be made to identify the Face of Ascot for 2009.

Representatives from the racecourse authority will join forces with representatives from Model's 1, Europe's leading model agency, and the Sunday Express magazine, on 17 and 18 June. The combined scouting party will scour the public enclosures looking for a series of finalists to become the Face of Ascot for 2009.

The final will take place on Saturday 21 June, and the winner will present the prize for the last race of the day, and will become the model used in Ascot promotional material for 2009.

26 March 2008.

Aintree Going Predicted To Be Good.

In spite of the recent cold snap, course officials at Aintree say the course is in fine condition, and if the current weather forecasts are to be believed, then the going for the three day John Smith's Grand National meeting should be Good.

26 March 2008.

Murphy Goes To Ayr.

Timmy Murphy takes the long trip to Ayr tomorrow. At present he has three rides booked, the most interesting being for owner David Johnson on the Peter Montieth trained Field Roller.

26 March 2008.

Hexham Return For Lee.

After being sidelined for several weeks with a double fracture of the jaw, jockey Graham Lee has been passed as fit, and expects to ride during this Sunday's meeting at Hexham.

26 March 2008.

Natagora Pleases Bary.

French trainer Pascal Bary was said to be very happy with Natagora after she came through yesterday's full training session with flying colours.

It is believed the three year old filly will have one preparation run before taking on her rivals in the One Thousand Guineas at Newmarket.

26 March 2008.

Competitive Start To Curragh Season.

The Curragh stages its first meeting of the flat season this coming Sunday, and as usual the first fixture features two very competitive premier races.

The Group Three Lodge Park Stud - Park Express Stakes has sixteen entries, including Group Race winners, Lush Lashes, and Danehill Music.

Doncaster On Weather Watch.

With blizzard conditions a possibility for the East of England, Doncaster racecourse officials are hoping the worst of the weather will pass them by.

For up to date information on how the weather effects tomorrow's racing, visit Racingsight tomorrow morning.

21 March 2008.

Very Wise Happens To Be Unlucky.

Over the last few years, a high draw in the Lincoln Handicap has proved to be very unfavourable. Therefore, trainer William Haggas was naturally disappointed when his 2007 Lincoln winner, Very Wise was drawn in stall seventeen.

The trainer indicated his charge had it all to do if he is to achieve victory in this year's event.

21 March 2008.

Twenty Six Remain.

At today's decleration stage for the Powers Whisky Irish Grand National, twenty six horses have stood their ground, and there have been no defections from any of the leading fancies.

21 March 2008.

O'Regan To Ride Priest's Leap.

Denis O'Regan has been chosen to ride third favourite Priest's Leap in Monday's Powers Whisky Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse.

21 March 2008.

Material World Retires.

Smart long distance hurdler Material World ran her last race in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at Cheltenham.

The mare is now bound for the paddocks, where she is to meet up with Kayf Tara later this year.

21 March 2008.

Nicholls Holds A Strong Hand.

Following the initial decleration stage, Ditcheat trainer, Paul Nicholls has seven horses entered in this year's running of the Scottish Grand National at Ayr in April. Other interesting declerations are; the Willie Mullins trained Hedge Hunter, 2005 winner Joe's Edge, and 2007 Welsh Grand National winner, Miko de Beauchene.

21 March 2008.

Spacious Plan.

Trainer James Fanshawe has indicated if the cold weather continues, he plans to miss out on a preparation run, and take anti post favourite, Spacious, directly to the One Thousand Guineas at Newmarket.

21 March 2008.

Extensive Ban For Jockey Keiran Burke.

At yesterday's BHA Disciplinary Panel hearing, jockey Keiran Burke was being investigated for the second time in a month regarding his excessive use of the whip.

The hearing considered his actions while riding Present M'Lord at Chepstow on 08 March 2008. After viewing the evidence, the panel found Burke in breach of the rules of racing, and in view of the fact this was his second offence in a month, they banned him from riding for forty days.

However, fourteen of the days of the ban will be suspended until later in the year, providing Burke attends a full day of retraining at the National Riding School.

21 March 2008.

Ferdy Murphy Cleared!

Yesterday's BHA Disciplinary Panel accepted testimony which cleared trainer Ferdy Murphy of deliberately taking medical equipment into the stable area at Doncaster racecourse on 28 December 2007.

The panel accepted the box including syringes had been dropped off in error by Murphy's transport manager, and that on discovering the error, a member of the trainer's staff was actually en route to the security office with the box when being stopped by security staff.

In view of the testimony, Murphy was successful in his appeal against a one thousand pound fine which had been imposed by the Doncaster stewards.

21 March 2008.

Royal Ascot Ladies Day At Bath.

For the ladies of the South West who are unable to obtain tickets for Ladies Day at Royal Ascot on 19 June, Bath racecourse has an excellent alternative.

On the same day, Bath racecourse is opening its Executive Marquee to a select gathering of three hundred and fifty guests. The racing and fashion of Royal Ascot will be piped through multiple tv screens to make guests feel like they are actually at Royal Ascot. There will also be a hot and cold buffet, bar and bookmaker facilities, and individual Royal Ascot race cards for each guest.

To obtain full details on the event, prospective clients are advised to make contact with Bath racecourse.

20 March 2008.

Weather Causes Further Delay At Great Leighs.

The recent rain and wind has affected the progress of finishing work on the new racecourse at Great Leighs, and as a result, the commencement of racing has been rescheduled from 04 April to Sunday 20 April.

20 March 2008.

Martin Seeks Jockey For Powers Favourite.

Following the failure of an appeal by Robbie Colgan against his riding ban, trainer Tony Martin is now looking for a jockey to ride his Powers Whisky Irish Grand National anti post favourite, Royal County Star.

20 March 2008.

Betfair Support For Oaksey House.

Tieing in with its inaugural Lambourn Open Day, Betfair has today illustrated its broader Contribution to the area, and the racing industry as a whole, by announcing a three year committment to provide funding for the Injured Jockey's Fund Oaksey House Project.

Betfair's support of thirty thousand pounds a year will go directly to the provision of physiotherapy in Lambourn, a thing which is desperately needed, and will be of benefit to the entire racing community.

This new Betfair support is in addition to the current three year committment of one hundred ant twenty five thousan pounds, which funds a full time doctor for the Professional Jockey's Association.

19 March 2008.

Hayley Turner Deserves Captaincy.

After her top points tally for the Great Britain team in last year's Shergar Cup, Ascot head of public relations, Nick Smith, believes Hayley Turner has been awarded the captaincy of the Great Britain team for this year's event on merit.

The 2008 Shergar Cup takes place on Saturday 09 August, and in

this very popular team riding event, Hayley will have formidable adversaries, as Frankie Dettori will captain the team from Europe, Jamie Spencer will captain Ireland, and Yutaka Take is captaining the very strong team from the Rest of the World.

19 March 2008.

Tote Sponsor Easter Monday At Great Yarmouth.

This year, Totesport are sponsoring all six races of the traditional Easter Monday meeting at Great Yarmouth. After their enforced winter hiatus, track officials are delighted with the opportunity to stage one of the early flat meetings of the season, and they expect good crowds for some competitive racing.

19 March 2008.

First Saturday For Stratford.

Stratford racecourse is staging its first Saturday meeting of 2008 on 29 March. The six race card includes a competitive two mile four furlong steeplechase, and an extended two mile novice hurdle which is often supported by leading stables.

19 March 2008.

Apprentices Incur Steward's Wrath.

Lady apprentice jockey, Josephine Bruning obtained her first win during yesterday's meeting at Kempton Park.

However, the victory was achieved in contrevertial style, as her three opponents let her mount, Sol Rojo, obtain a soft lead, and this eventually extended up to thirty lengths before the other riders realised their mistake. When her rivals tried to close, they only managed to reduce the winning margin to sixteen lengths.

As a result of the incident, the three chasing apprentices incurred the wrath of the Kempton Stewards for their ineffectual riding tactics, and the three received bans totalling thirty four days.

19 March 2008.

Apprentice To Ride TTop Weight Blythe Knight.

Trainer John Quinn has employed seven pound claimer, Barry McHugh to ride his Lincoln Handicap top weight, Blythe Knight.

A previous winner of the race, and now rated in Group company, Blythe Knight has had an unsuccessful season over hurdles, and will need this weight reduction boost if he is to figure in the closing stages of this year's Lincoln.

19 March 2008.

Ayr Offering Express Coach Service For Scottish Grand National.

Ayr Racecourse and National Express Coaches are collaborating to provide race goers with an express coach ride to the Scottish Grand National. The service will pick up in Glasgow City Centre, Hamilton, East Kilbride, Kilmarnock and Irvine, and passengers can purchase a combined ticket to cover travel, entrance to the racecourse, and a racecard.

The service will arrive two hours before the first race, and to allow passengers to enjoy the after race entertainment, it will not leave until two hours after racing has finished.

18 March 2008.

Zaahid Could Miss Lincoln.

Unless some of the higher weighted horses declared for Saturday's Lincoln Handicap at Doncaster drop out of contention, anti post favourite, Zaahid, could miss the cut for the race.

18 March 2008.

Nicholls Considers Masterminded Punchestown Raid.

Paul Nicholls is considering the possibility of running his Queen Mother Champion Chase winner, Masterminded, in the Keerygold Champion Chase. The race is one of the blue ribbon races of the Punchestown Festival, and Masterminded's participation would certainly draw in massive crowds on the twenty second of April.

18 March 2008.

Channel 4 Cut Back On McCririck Participation.

After being advised he will not be required for eighteen weeks of the year, John McCririck, the long standing betting jungle adviser of Channel 4, fears he is being marginalized by the tv station, as they would now prefer high tech betting gurus.

18 March 2008.

Ayr Property Day Race Meeting.

Prior to its Scottish Grand National meeting in April, Ayr racecourse will stage its annual Property Day Meeting on 27 March. The day includes three steeplechases, three hurdle races, and a national hunt flat race.

The novice events at this meeting are worth watching, as they usually produce a progressive type, who will go on to win at one of the senior meetings.

17 March 2008.

Improved Prize Fund For Lincoln.

The turf flat racing season starts at Doncaster on Saturday with a seven race card commencing at two o five p m. The day is sponsored by William Hill, and with a total prize fund of one hundred and twenty five thousand pounds, the leading bookmaking firm have made this the richest ever running of the long established Lincoln Handicap.

The stable staff of this year's winning horse will certainly have the sweet taste of victory, as they will be presented with easter eggs equivalent to the weight of the winning jockey.

17 March 2008.

Yorkshire At The Forefront.

Following closely behind the Lincoln meeting at Doncaster, Redcar and Pontefract stage early flat meetings this year.

Carlisle Abandoned.

Following an inspection at nine o'clock yesterday morning, and with parts of the course still waterlogged, the decision was made to abandon today's Carlisle race meeting.

16 March 2008.

Smith Stable On The Right Trail.

Sue Smith's Yorkshire stables are enjoying good times at present. Following up quickly on the win of Mister McGoldrick at Cheltenham, her lightly weighted Himalayan Trail devastated his field in the John Smith's Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter.

Carrying only nine stone nine pounds, the gelding stormed away from his rivals in the home straight, and left the big anti post favourite, Badgers Law, with the concellation of a distant second place.

15 March 2008.

Another High Quality Mares Only Race.

The David Nicholson Mares Only contest at Cheltenham produced one of the closest and most exciting finishes of the week.

Limerick racecourse officials are hopeful their Sunday staging of the Grade Three Bank of Ireland EBF Mares Only Novice Chase will produce a similar close finish.

15 March 2008.

Now Looking Forward To Fairyhouse.

For race goers who are still high on adrenalin from Cheltenham, you only have to last out one week before you can get your next instalment of high quality national hunt racing action.

The four days of the Easter Fairyhouse Festival start next Saturday 22 March, and the prize money for this year's races is over one and a quarter million euros.

The Powers Whisky Irish Grand National is the highlight of the Easter Monday race card, and this year the three mile five furlong Grade Three race is worth two hundred and fifty thousand euros in prize money.

14 March 2008.

Brilliant Denman Eclipses Star.

Paul Nicholls has a new Cheltenham Gold Cup champion. Denman took the race by the scruff of the neck at the start of the second circuit, and his brilliant jumping and relentless pace ran the fight out of defending champion Kauto Star.

Denman eventually ran out a seven length winner, and Kauto Star had to fight to hold on to second place from the Paul Nicholls third string, Neptune Collonges.

All the bookmaking firms confirmed after the race, they had seen record turnover and were looking forward to next year's rematch.

14 March 2008.

Records Expected To Tumble.

With a nine race card, including the expected titanic struggle between Kauto Star and Denman in today's Gold Cup, officials at Cheltenham feel today's racing could generate record breaking activity.

It is estimated by the major bookmaking firms, over three hundred million pounds could be wagered on today's racing. The Cheltenham Gold Cup should break its previous betting record, and the public's interest in the race could pull in the biggest radio and tv audiences in years.

14 March 2008.

Praise For Chris Deuters.

We are sad to report, the former President of the Racehorse Owners Association, Chris Deuters, died last night after a long illness.

Paying tribute today, National Trainers Federation chief executive, Rupert Arnold was quoted as saying, "It is with great sadness and an enormous sense of loss that we learnt today of Chris's untimely death.

Not only was he a wonderful man and great company, he also brought a calm and balanced approach to racing's many contentious problems."

14 March 2008.

Saw Doctors At Scottish Grand National Meeting.

It has been announced today, the opening of the new four and a half million pound Grandstand Bar will take place on the first day of the two day Scottish Grand National meeting.

Twenty minutes after the last race on Friday 18 April, the new bar will stage a concert by Irish folk rock band, The Saw Doctors.

To ensure entry to what will be a well attended function, race goers are advised to go to the new Grandstand Bar immediately after racing.

14 March 2008.

Bet Nets Punter A Large Profit.

Yesterday, a Stan James punter staked seven thousand pounds on three races at the Cheltenham Festival. His Patent multiple bet was placed on Finger on the Pulse at twelve to one, Masterminded at three to one, And Inglis Drever at six to four. His successful bet netted him just over two hundred and thirty five thousand pounds.

Nice one!

14 March 2008.

Catch It Misses Aintree.

Alan King has reported his Champion Hurdle winner, Catch It, will not be entered in any races at the Aintree Festival.

14 March 2008.

Shearer Scores Against Bookmakers.

In his second charity bet for Sport Relief, Alan Shearer scored again against Ladbrokes. Having selected Tidal Bay on Tuesday, Shearer selected Inglis Drever for Thursday's meeting.

Further to this morning's announcement of the cancellation of racing at Cheltenham due to strong winds, all six races have been reallocated. There is now an expanded card of ten races on Thursday 13 March, with a nine race card taking place on Friday 14 March.

It is estimated by some bookmaking firms, with the incredible interest in this year's Cheltenham Gold Cup, Friday could see one of the biggest betting days in British racing history.

12 March 2008.

Although his driving finishes gave jockey Robert Thornton a Cheltenham first day double on Captain Cee Bee and Catch It, on both occasions he was in breach of BHA whip legislation, and for the two offences, he has been banned from riding for a total of one week.

11 March 2008.

Bookmakers Gleeful As Ashkazar Gamble Just Fails.

Saturday's Imperial Cup winner Ashkazar was the subject of a huge gamble in the last race of day one at Cheltenham, but his top weight proved too much, and he finished second in the Fred Winter Hurdle to the Emma Levell trained Crack Away Jack.

After the last race, David Williams of Ladbrokes is quoted as saying, "Punters have had a hard time of it today, and we go into day two with the wind in our sails".

11 March 2008.

Bolger Maintains Unbelievable Record.

When Garde Champetre won today's fifth race at Cheltenham, it meant Irish trainer Enda Bolger had achieved the remarkable record of training nine of the twelve winners on the Cheltenham Cross Country Course.

11 March 2008.

Tough Finish In BGC Chase.

The BGC Chase was the fourth race on the first day of the Cheltenham Festival, and Anaccordion stayed on to thwart the late challenges of New Alco and favourite L'Aime.

11 March 2008.

First Two Home For J P McManus.

In today's first race at Cheltenham, the J P McManus owned pair of horses, Captain Cee Bee and Binocular, took the first two places in the Supreme Novices Hurdle.

The four year old Binocular seemed to have the race won at the last flight, but the seven year old Captain Cee Bee powered past his rival on the run in up the Cheltenham hill.

11 March 2008.

Tidal Bay Too Good For Rivals.

In the second race on the Cheltenham card, the Arkle Chase, Tidal Bay left his rivals in his wake over the final stages, and won the race by twelve lengths. Thwe well backed favourite, Noland, found little off the final turn, and had to settle for third place.

11 March 2008.

Tenacious Catch It Captures Champion Hurdle.

The Alan King trained Catch It became the first horse since Persian War to win the Cheltenham Triumph Hurdle as a four year old, before going on to land the Champion Hurdle as a five year old.

Catch It loves Cheltenham, and he battled up the hill to fight off a late revived challenge from the race's original front runner, the David Pipe trained Osana.

Favourite Sizing Europe folded in the latter stages of the race, and was virtually pulled up.

11 March 2008.

Some Damage, But No Major Problems.

The gales of the last twenty four hours caused a few problems amongst the temporary canvas facilities at Cheltenham racecourse, but it is expected all will be in order for today's racing.

The heavy rain which was forecast also failed to materialize, and the going for the first day of the Festival remains good to soft.

11 March 2008.

Winter Derby Attracts Good Entry.

Twenty eight horses have been declared for this Saturday's running of the Bet Direct Winter Derby at Lingfield Park.

Having been laid out for the race, the Gerard Butler trained Silver Pivotel has attracted much support, and is currently eleven to four anti post favourite for the all weather crown.

10 March 2008.

Fifty Entrants For Midlands Grand National.

At today's decleration stage, the John Smith's Midlands Grand National has attracted fifty entrants. The four mile two furlong race is one of the longest in the national hunt season, and this year has prize money of around one hundred thousand pounds.

At this stage, declared horses include previous Welsh Grand National winners, Miko de Beauchene and L'Aventure.

08 March 2008.

Scoop Six Roll Over.

Punters are reminded, there was no winner of the Scoop Six last week, so this week's prize is an estimated four hundred thousand pounds, which could be a very good thing to win in the week before Cheltenham.

07 March 2008.

Boost For Devalira Hopes.

In yesterday's article, we suggested the Michael O'Brien trained Devalira is strongly fancied for the Champion Hurdle. The outsiders hopes have been boosted by today's news, he is to be ridden by leading jockey Ruby Walsh.

07 March 2008.

Pipe Could Scupper Legspinner Gamble.

David Pipe has indicated he may decide to run Lough Derg in the Coral Cup rather than the Ladbrokes World Hurdle. If he decides on this course of action, current anti post favourite, Legspinner, could be amongst fifteen horses left out of the weights for the Coral sponsored hurdle race.

07 March 2008.

McCoy Aiming To Return Tomorrow.

To give his back injury the best chance of repair, champion jockey Tony McCoy has put off race riding for as long as possible, but he is expected to return to the saddle tomorrow after being passed fit by Doctorr Michael Turner, the BHA medical examiner.

07 March 2008.

Jockeys Incur Ban For Misuse Of Whip.

At yesterday's BHA Disciplinary Panel meeting, three jockeys were suspended from race riding for misuse of the whip.

Under the totting up procedure, Dane O'Neill received a twenty eight day ban. Keiran Burke was suspended for twelve days, and amateur rider Miss Jodie Hughes received a sixteen day ban.

All the suspensions will start on 14 March

06 March 2008.

Nick Mitchell, who is currently assistant trainer to Robert and Sally Alner, is hoping to obtain his own training license later this year, and is expected to take possession of a small purpose built stables in Dorchester.

06 March 2008.

Rippling Ring Pleases Nicholls.

One of the anti post favourites for this year's Supreme Novices Hurdle, Rippling Ring, has been pleasing trainer Paul Nicholls in his preparation work. Based on the form of the Ditcheat stable this season, this could be a serious recommendation to undecided punters.

06 March 2008.

Huntingdon Stages Lady Riders Champion Hurdle.

On the day following the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, Huntingdon racecourse is staging a lady riders equivalent during its seven race card on Wednesday 12 March.

06 March 2008.

Stable Confidence in Devalira.

With only a fourth place behind Catch Me, and a twenty five to one betting price, it is suprising to learn trainer Michael O'Brien is supremely confident Devalira can win Tuesday's Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham.

However, speaking yesterday, O'Brien was adamant his lightly raced competitor would beat both Catch Me, and current anti post favourite, Sizing Europe.

05 March 2008.

No Racecourse Gallap For Inglis Drever.

Due to complaints of potential favouritism from other northern based trainers, Hexham racecourse have had to deny a racecourse gallop to the J Howard Johnson yard. This means stable stars, like Inglis Drever, will have to prepare for the Cheltenham Festival on their home gallops.

Happening hard on the heels of the recent virus in the Howard Johnson racing team, this is another set back to Cheltenham Festival preparations.

05 March 2008.

Tote Bid Rejected.

It is believed, the government are to reject the latest bid by the Racing Industry to purchase the Tote. The bid of three hundred and twenty million pounds, which was formulated in conjunction with the current Tote management, falls short of the government's valuation of the business.

05 March 2008.

Chepstow To Set The Scene For Cheltenham.

This weekend will see the normalinflux of knowledgable Irish race goers prior to the start of the Cheltenham Festival. As an added bonus for racing visitors Chepstow racecourse is staging its Irish Day meeting on Saturday 08 March. The fixture, sponsored by Guinness, has a good card of quality national hunt racing, and once racing is over,a live U2 tribute band will entertain the crowds for a further one and a half hours.

05 March 2008.

Lanark Silver Bell To Be Revived At Hamilton.

Following a vote organised by Lanark Council, one of the oldest races in the UK, The Lanark Silver Bell, is to be revived at Hamilton Park racecourse.

The race has not been run since the demise of Lanark racecourse, and there had been speculation the race would be revived at Ayr, but following a vote, Hamilton Park was the unanimous choice to become the new venue.

In 2008, the revived Lanark Silver Bell will be the feature race of the Cash For Kids charity night on 11 June.

05 March 2008.

Another Retirement After Veterans Race.

We reported earlier in the week, Sir Rembrandt had been retired after the Veterans Race at Newbury on Saturday.

A BHA Disciplinary Panel have found trainer Michael Wigham, and jockey Jamie Mackay are in breach of the non trier rules relating to horse racing. This decision was reached after reviewing the running of the Michael Wigham trained mare, Glenakey at both Wolverhampton and Kempton.

Decision on a final punishment for both individuals has been deferred to a later date, but it is likely the trainer and jockey are in line for a severe sanction.

03 March 2008.

Harrington Unhappy After Novice Fatality.

Jessica Harrington was said to be very unhappy with the hurdle course layout at yesterday's Leopardstown meeting. She partly blamed the track for the fatal leg injury suffered by her Irish Cesarawitch winner, Sandymount Earl, who was having his first spin over hurdles in yesterday's initial race on the Leopardstown card.

However, the Harrington camp obtained a little concellation when there well regarded Zarinava forged to victory in the concluding Bumper National Hunt Flat Race.

03 March 2008.

Superb Prizes For Best Dressed At Punchestown Festival.

During the 2008 Punchestown Festival, which is due to be staged between April 22 and 26, there will be a hundred thousand euros on offer in two best dressed competitions.

Amongst the judges for the annual Newbridge Silverwear Best Dressed Lady competition will be Eighties tv icons, Larry Hagman, and Linda Gray.

On the Ballymor Properties sponsored Saturday meeting, representatives of Ballymore Properties will mingle amongst the race crowds, and then select a, 'Hottest Dressed Couple', who will receive a fabulous holiday prize worth aroung thirty thousand euros.

03 March 2008.

Workouts Go Well For Cheltenham Bound Horses.

Jonjo O'Neill has indicated Exotic Dancer is in fine fettle after his Saturday workout, and barring any last minute problems, he is now a definite runner in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Meanwhile, both Legspinner, and Hardy Eustace, came through their gallops after yesterday's card at Leopardstown, and are on track to take part in the Coral Cup, and Ladbrokes World Hurdle respectively.

02 March 2008.

Punters Flock To Cloudy Lane.

After three consecutive wins, including an impressive display in yesterday's Grimthorpe Chase at Doncaster, the Donald McCain trained Cloudy Lane has been well supported by hopeful anti post punters, and the eight year old has now been made clear favourite for this year's Grand National.

With a comparatively low weight in the big race, and a proven ability to go on any going, it would seem, in the minds of most punters, the only remaining obstacle to a winning run comes in the form of the thirty Aintree fences.

Pontefract racecourse officials have announced, in the coming flat season, the Listed Flying Fillies Stakes which takes place at Pontefract on Sunday 17 August will now be sponsored by Highfield Farm Stud.

In addition, the annual Ladies Day fixture has been switched to 06 August, and the meeting will feature a new Veterans Handicap for six year old horses and above.

01 March 2008.

Eighties Night To Follow Shergar Cup Meeting.

Ascot racecourse have announced, following this year's Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup meeting on 09 August, there will be a two hour show featuring some of the top original acts of the nineteen eighties.

Trainer Alan Swinbank made an honest mistake over the start date of the suspension imposed on his maiden hurdler, Ignotus. As a result he ran the horse a day early in a maiden hurdle at Newcastle on 12 February.

At a meeting of the BHA Disciplinary Panel, Swinbank was fined five hundred pounds for making the mistake, and Ignotus was disqualified from first place in the race, the win in the event now being credited to runner up, Best Prospect.

28 February 2008.

Cheltenham Course News.

Final alterations to the shape of the notorious second last fence on the Old Course at Cheltenham have now been completed. It is believed the remodelling will prevent the high number of falls which have occurred at the fence in past meetings.

If some rain is not forthcoming in the next couple of days, there are also plans to water the Cheltenham courses to maintain the good to soft conditions ideal for top class jumping.

27 February 2008.

McCoy To Return Next Wednesday.

Subject to BHA final medical clearance, champion jockey, Tony McCoy plans to return to race riding next Wednesday 05 March.

27 February 2008.

Gales Cause Catterick Cancellation.

Seventy mile an hour winds caused the cancellation of yesterday's race card at Catterick.

The Yorkshire course will be hoping their last national hunt meeting of the season, due to be held next Wednesday 05 March, will not be threatened by any other form of adverse weather conditions.

27 February 2008.

Last Battle For Inglis?

It seems this year's Ladbrokes World Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival is to see the last track appearance of Inglis Drever. Having won the race for the last two years, the J Howard Johnson trained long distance champion is attempting to equal the three wins posted by the French raider, Barricuda.

If successful, Inglis Drever can be sure of the kind of Cheltenham reception which is only reserved for true champions.

27 February 2008.

Gallops Determine Muirhead Participation.

Trainer Noel Meade has indicated his unbeaten novice hurdler, Muirhead, is to have two gallops over the next week, and his paarticipation in the Cheltenham Supreme Novices Hurdle will be dependant upon his performance in these training exercises.

27 February 2008.

Friday Wine, Saturday Ireland.

The two day national hunt meeting at Ayr on 07 and 08 March has two new major sponsors.

The Friday card is supported by La Barrique, the fine wine division of leading independant wholesaler, Wallace's. While the Saturday card is sponsored by Allied Irish Bank.

Several of the races in this March meeting are worth noting for pointers to potential winners at the Scottish Grand National meeting in April.

26 February 2008.

Stratford Improvements Suffer Short Delay.

At Stratford's first meeting of the season on 03 March, the Centre Course Picnic Enclosure will not be open to spectators. This is due to a weather generated short delay in the completion of a one million pound overhaul of racecourse facilities.

In addition, the lift in the Warwickshire Grandstand is still awaiting important replacement parts, and it will be out of action for the first fixture. As the racecourse is an active supporter of accessibility, alternative viewing facilities will be made available to disabled race goers.

When all the work is completed, the racecourse will be able to offer its patrons greatly improved facilities, including, new flooring, mew bars, decor, and air conditioning in the racecourse restaurant.

26 February 2008.

Additional Meeting At Market Rasen.

This coming Sunday, 02 March, Market Rasen racecourse is staging an additional meeting to its published fixtures.

The additional day of racing has been arranged due to the number of recent fixtures which were lost to bad weather during the early part of February.

However, as this additional meeting occurs on Mothering Sunday, it provides a good opportunity for people in the Market Rasen area to treat their mothers to an unexpected racing occasion.

26 February 2008.

Kelso Stage Their Richest Day Of Racing.

The Kelso Countryside Day, which takes place this coming Saturday, 01 March, combines Countryside events, such as dog and hound displays, and dog races, with Kelso's richest day of horse racing in 2008.

With over one hundred thousand pounds in prize money on offer, the racing programme includes Kelso's only pattern race, the Grade Two Totepool Premier Kelso Hurdle, a race which is well supported by leading stables, and is always won by a very capable horse.

26 February 2008.

McCoy To Have BHA Test.

Although Tony McCoy will start riding out today, he will have to pass a hurdling test in front of the BHA's medical examiner before he can recommence race riding. It is not yet known when the test will take place.

26 February 2008.

Grimthorpe Boost.

Further to yesterday's article on Saturday's Grimthorpe Chase at Doncaster. The race has been boosted by the probable participation of leading Grand National fancies, Cloudy Lane and Mister Pointment.

26 February 2008.

Jack The Giant Sidelined.

Nicky Henderson has announced, Jack the Giant has had a setback in training, and will now miss the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.

26 February 2008.

See A Fistful Of Dollars At Aintree.

Irish trainer Noel Meade is admitting, he regrets not entering his Fairyhouse winner, A Fistful of Dollars, in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

It now seems the ten year old will be aimed at the Totesport Bowl at Aintree.

26 February 2008.

Thornton Aims For Return At Aintree.

As we reported yesterday, jockey Andrew Thornton had to see a specialist about the dislocated shoulder he received in Saturday's fall from Solard.

As a result of the examination, Thornton has been advised he will definitely miss the Cheltenham Festival, but he may be fit enough to partner Simon in the Aintree Grand National.

26 February 2008.

Harchibald Prepares At Dundalk.

Leading Champion Hurdle fancy, Harchibald, is to use a flat race at Dundalk on Friday as his preparation for his Cheltenham bid.

Although the Dundalk meeting represents the start of the Irish Flat Racing Season, safety disagreements may still make the meetingsubject to a potential boycott by leading Irish flat jockeys.

25 February 2008.

McCoy Passed Fit.

Further to our earlier news story. Racingsight has learnt champion jockey, Tony McCoy has passed today's medical, and will be fit to ride at the Cheltenham Festival.

25 February 2008.

Doncaster Pointer To Scottish Grand National.

Ruby Rides Through The Pain Barrier.

Despite taking a freak kick in the back from a tumbling horse at the second last fence, Ruby Walsh ignored the pain, and the fact he could hardley breathe and managed to drive out his mount, Oslot to victory over the last fence and run in of the Pendle Chase at yesterday's Kempton meeting.

Based on the dent in his body protector, Ruby will have a huge bruise on his back to remind him of the incident.

It is believed Michael Hourigan is giving serious consideration to the permanent retirement of his old warrior, Beef or Salmon.

Although the multiple Grade One winner would be a sad loss to the national hunt ranks, it is true to say, he has not shown his old sparkle during the current season.

21 February 2008.

Parr Successful Despite Mernagh Absence.

The long running appeal concerning the running of Black Opal was heard today by the BHA Disciplinary Panel and despite the continued absence of jockey Dean Mernagh, the result of the hearing confirmed that trainer Stewart Parr was successful in his appeal against his five thousand pound fine.

Due to his second unexplained absence, Dean Mernagh had his original suspension of twenty eight days increased to thirty five days.

The reasons behind the panels decisions will be released at a later date.

21 February 2008.

Changes To Finishing Distances And Calculations.

From Monday 25 February, the BHA is to change the method of calculating finishing distances, and they will also introduce some new finishing measurements.

At present the photo finish computer is calibrated to allow four lengths for every second which passes at the end of a national hunt race, and five lenghts for every second which passes at the end of a flat race.

However, this simplistic approach has never taken account of the under hoof conditions. The new system will take going into account.

From Monday, in national hunt races where the going is good to soft or worse, the photo finish computer will be calibrated to four lengths per second, but if the going is good or better, it will be calibrated to five lengths per second.

For the finish of flat races, on Fibresand, or if the going is soft or worse, the photo finish computer will be calibrated to five lengths per second, but on Polytrack or turf going which is good to soft or better, the computer will be calibrated to six lenghts per second.

The new finishing distances which will be introduced are; A Nose, which will come between a dead heat and a short head, two and three quarter lengths, three and a quarter lengths, three and three quarter lengths, and four and a half lengths.

All of these changes are being introduced to make the handicappers assessments more accurate.

21 February 2008.

A Few Gold Cup Tickets Still Available.

For punters who want to witness the titanic battle promised in this year's Cheltenham Gold Cup, it is worth noting Cheltenham racecourse still have a handful of Club Enclosure tickets available for the Friday of the Festival meeting.

If you want to obtain contact details for the racecourse, visit the Cheltenham listing in our Racecourses section.

21 February 2008.

Catterick racecourse officials would like to remind their national hunt supporters, the last two jump cards of the spring campaign take place in quick succession on 26 February, and 05 March.

20 February 2008.

McCoy Raring To Go.

Tony McCoy is apparently feeling great after his enforced injury break, and he is planning to return to the saddle the week before the Cheltenham Festival.

20 February 2008.

Eider Doubts Over Arnold Lane.

The anti post market for the Totesport Eider Chase at Newcastle on Saturday, could be thrown into confusion at any moment. This is because trainer, Caroline Bailey, has indicated Arnold Lane may by pass the Eider, in favour of a run at Warwick on Friday.

20 February 2008.

Cheltenham May Start Watering.

Cheltenham Clerk of the Course, Simon Claisse, has indicated, unless there is considerable rain fall in the next few days, he will start a watering programme to ensure good going on the Cheltenham Festival courses.

20 February 2008.

Sedgefield Inspect Tomorrow Morning.

Tomorrow's racing at Sedgefield will be dependant on a thorough course inspection at elevan a m. Full details will be available on this website.

18 February 2008.

Navada Royale Out Of Sun Alliance.

Nevada Royale, the anti post favourite for the Royal and Sun Alliance Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, will not compete in the race.

Trainer Paul Nicholls has indicated the promising chaser will, for the time being, continue his racing career in hurdle races.

18 February 2008.

Acambo Out For Season.

David Pipe has informed the media, his Cheltenham Arkle Chase hope, Acambo, will be sidelined for the rest of the season due to a stress fracture of the pelvis.

18 February 2008.

Carlisle Cancelled.

Due to heavy frost penetration of the running surface, today's racing at Carlisle has been cancelled.

18 February 2008.

Vodafone Renew Sponsorship Of Derby For 2008.

Although no longer sponsoring the whole of the two day Derby meeting at Epsom, Vodafone have agreed to renew their sponsorship of the actual Derby race for the 2008 season.

17 February 2008.

Towcester Off!

After an an eleven thirty inspection, today's Towcester races have been cancelled due to frost patches making parts of the course unsafe for racing..

17 February 2008.

Kauto Fears Dispelled.

Overnight rumours stating Kauto Star would be unable to defend his Cheltenham Gold Cup title due to a sprained fetlock have proved to be unfounded.

The equine superstar's trainer, Paul Nicholls, has indicated Kauto Star only has a localised infection in a small cut, and all systems are go for a return to Cheltenham in March.

16 February 2008.

Situation Normal - Met Office Over React.

Wincanton and Uttoxeter are soon to hold precautionary inspections, but it seems the weather men over reacted as usual, and it appears last nights frost was not as bad as predicted, so racing is expected to go ahead at all today's proposed racing venues.

16 February 2008.

Can Aitmatov Signal Meade Return To Form.

It is believed some form of stable virus has been behind the terrible run of form of horses coming from the Noel Meade yard. However, some recent placings may indicate things are improving, and it will be interesting to se if Aitmatov can return to his early season form in tomorrows ladbrokes.com Boyne Hurdle.

The outcome of the race is very important, for a win in the Grade Two contest would put Aitmatov back amongst the leading fancies for the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle.

15 February 2008.

Old Favourites Return At Gowran Park.

It now seems very likely De Valira will compete in the Red Mills Centenary Trial Hurdle at Gowran Park tomorrow. His performance, after a long break, could have a major effect on Champion Hurdle betting, for on the three occasions the Michael O'Brien charge has met Sizing Europe, he has beaten him.

A good result tomorrow could propel him up the betting for the Champion Hurdle.

On the same Gowran card, Kicking King continues his rehabilitation in the Red Mills Chase. Once again, a good effort could have a considerable effect on the betting for the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

15 February 2008.

Weather May Scuttle Kauto Perfect Scenario.

The going for tomorrows Commercial First Chase at Ascot is reported by trainer Paul Nicholls as being ideal for his stable number one, Kauto Star.

However, plunging overnight temperatures may still put the meeting in jeopardy, and punters are advised to take note of possible racecourse inspections tomorrow morning.

15 February 2008.

Simon Switched To Kempton.

Simon, the joint Anti Post favourite for tomorrows Red Square Vodka Gold Cup at Haydockis to miss the race in favour of an attempt to win the Racing Post Chase at Kempton on 23 February.

If the switch is successful, Simon will achieve back to back wins in the Kempton race.

15 February 2008.

Butler Double Handed For Lingfield Trial.

Gerard Butler has indicated he intends to run both Silver Pivotel and Dansant in the Winter Derby Trial at Lingfield Park on 23 February.

14 February 2008.

Mernagh Absence Postpones Enquiry.

The BHA Disciplinary Panel Appeal due to be held today on behalf of Stewart Parr and Dean Mernagh had to be postponed due to the unavailablity of Dean Mernagh. The Appeal will now be held at a later date.

14 February 2008.

Father And Son Warned Off.

Following a BHA Disciplinary Panel Meeting over three days, Robert Tierney and Richard Tierney have been warned off from racing.

This decision was reached after it was proved the two had been guilty of running a 'ringer' in two point to point meetings in February 2006. The horse entered by Robert Tierney, and Ridden by his son Richard Tierney, was Green Admiral, but in fact the actual winner of both races was a better quality horse named King's Crest.

As a result of the decision, Robert Tierney was disqualified from racing for six years, and his son, Richard Tierney, was disqualified for two years.

14 February 2008.

Parr Rescinds His Decision.

Prior to todays BHA Disciplinary Panel hearing, Stewart Parr has decided to rescind his decision to quit racing if his appeal is unsuccessful. In fact, Parr has agreed to become salaried trainer to football agent Willie Mackay.

14 February 2008.

Llewellyn May Take Final Bow In Grand National.

In order to bring down the final curtain on a long and illustrious riding career, it is believed Carl Lllewellyn is considering an offer to ride for Nigel Twiston Davies in this years Grand National.

Although now a successful trainer in his own right, Llewellyn is known to love the hustle and bustle of the world's greatest steeplechase, and would probably relish the opportunity to gain another winner in this years event.

14 February 2008.

Munro Placed At Toulouse.

In his first couple of rides back after a long illness related break, jockey Alan Munro reiterated his ability wwhen achieving second and third placings with his first couple of rides at the race meeting at Toulouse.

14 February 2008.

Chapple Hyam Renews Link With Coolmore.

Having trained some excellent horses for Coolmore Stud in the past, Peter Chapple Hyam is to be entrusted with the training of around four Coolmore two year olds for the coming flat season.

14 February 2008.

Nine de Sivola Out For Rest Of Season.

Trainer Ferdy Murphy has suffered another setback, as a knee problem has now ruled out last years Scottish Grand National runner up, Nine de Sivola, for the remainder of this national hunt season.

14 February 2008.

Coral Renew Eclipse Sponsorship.

Following on from their very long association with the Sandown centrepiece, Coral bookmakers have renewed their sponsorship of the Group One Eclipse Stakes, which will be run this year on Saturday 05 July.

13 February 2008.

BHA Reconvenes Appeal.

The long awaited appeal by trainer Stewart Parr, and Jockey Dean Mernagh, concerning the running of Black Opal in January 2007, will be heard tomorrow morning by the BHA Disciplinary Panel.

Stewart Parr has already announced publicly, if he loses the appeal, he will quit racing, so there is much resting on the hearing, and Racingsight will bring you the result as soon as it is announced.

13 February 2008.

Sedgefiield First.

Sedgefield is well known for staging the other national hunt meeting on the first day of the Cheltenham Festival, but for the first time, the County Durham course is to stage a Cheltenham Preview Evening on Wednesday 05 March.

These preview evenings are held in various regional locations, and are very popular with punters, as they do give some insight into potential winners on the four days of racing at Cheltenham.

Tickets are available from the racecourse, and the five pound admission charge includes a meal, and free William Hill betting vouchers.

13 February 2008.

Fallon To Make Final Appeal.

It appears ex champion jockey, Kieran Fallon is to make a final appeal against the length of his eighteen month riding ban. If the action goes forward, it will be heard by a senior panel of French racing officials, and will be heard sometime in the next couple of months.

13 February 2008.

Todays Racing.

After early morning inspections, we can confirm todays race cards at Musselburgh and Leicester go ahead.

12 February 2008.

Valentines Day Highlights At Kelso.

During this Thursdays Valentines Day at Kelso, trainer Len Lungo is giving Brooklyn Breeze his pre Grand National run in the highlight Wetherbys Bloodstock Insurance Handicap Chase.

David Pipe may send Bathwick Shannon a long way for her jumping debut, and the seven race card also hosts the first Hunter Chase of the season.

All of which, gives northern punters the opportunity to spoil someone they love with an enjoyable afternoon at Kelso races.

12 February 2008.

Veterans Race Again At Doncaster.

After a successful introduction at Wincanton, the Veterans Series, which is for national hunt horses of ten years of age and above, continues at Doncaster on Wednesday 20 February. The three mile chase, worth twenty five thousand pounds in prize money, is the highlight on a seven race national hunt card.

12 February 2008.

Final Decleration Boost For Haydock.

Haydock Park were delighted to report this morning, at the final decleration stage, the one hundred and twenty five thousand pound Red Square Vodka Gold Cup is a who's who of quality long distance stayers. The field includes; 2007 and 2005 Welsh Grand National winners, Miko de Beauchene and L'Aventure, the 2005 Midlands Grand National winner Philson Run, and trying to retain his title the 2007 Red Square Vodka Gold Cup winner Ossmoses.

This quality field should provide some excellent pointers to the Grand National at Aintree in April.

Chairman of Horse Racing Ireland, Denis Brosnan, today welcomed Seamus Brennan, the republic's Minister for Arts Sports and Tourism, as the Minister officially opened the new H R I headquarters at Ballymany, The Curragh, County Kildare.

The new building will be home to around one hundred and ten people, and will spearhead the activities of the pro active Irish racing industry as it continues its expansion and modernisation programmes.

11 February 2008.

Unlucky Williams Misses Cheltenham.

After ploughing through the wing of a fence in the last race at Warwick on Saturday, jockey Christian Williams was later given the bad news, he had broken his leg. Needless to say, he will therefore miss the whole of the Cheltenham Festival, and will be sidelined for several weeks.

11 February 2008.

Magic May Be Losing Its Appeal.

There are rumours, as yet unconfirmed, Ruby Walsh may be about to turn his back on Twiist Magic, in favour of riding stable companion, and Saturday Newbury winner, Masterminded, in next months Queen Mother Champion Chase.

11 February 2008.

Forster Concerned About Ossmoses.

Last year's winner of the Red Square Vodka Gold Cup at Haydock, Ossmoses, is only just achieving fitness after a long injury problem, and owner trainer Don Forster has indicated, Saturday's defence of his title will be decided after a long delayed full gallop, which is due to take place tomorrow.

11 February 2008.

Munro Restarts Career.

After a long break due to health problems, jockey Alan Munro will recommence race riding in France next week. He is also said to be looking forward to renewing his links with trainer Peter Chapple Hyam.

11 February 2008.

Ascot Planning To Water.

To ensure good jumping ground for this coming Saturday, Ascot plan to water if conditions dictate.

This is good news for Paul Nicholls, as providing their is a suitable surface at Ascot, the Somerset based trainer intends to run Kauto Star as part of the preperation prior to the defence of the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

11 February 2008.

Snowy Morning Now Clear Favourite For Grand National.

After his excellent equally weighted third in the Grade One Irish Cognac Gold Cup, all the major bookmaking firms have cut Snowy Morning into as short as seven to one anti post favourite for this years Grand National.

11 February 2008.

Sedgefield Attract Tomorrows Race Goers.

During the school half term holiday, Sedgefield racecourse are to hold a family day on Tuesday 19 February. Children and accompanying adults will have free access to the racecourse, and highlights will include a belated Pancake Race, and a chance to obtain autographs from , and photographs with, the multi prize winning Newcastle Eagles Basketball Team. Oh, and of course, there is a competitive race card to excite a future generation of race goers.

11 February 2008.

Davy Russell Century.

When he rode the Arthur Moore trained Lenry to victory at Naas on Saturday, jockey Davy Russell recorded his one hundredth race win in the current Irish national hunt season. Not a man to sit on his laurels, Davy completed a double on the Naas card, and made an early impression on an attempt to complete a double century.

11 February 2008.

Lord Gyllene At Uttoxeter.

1997 Grand National winner, Lord Gyllene, will oversee the proceedings surrounding the running of the Totesport Lord Gyllene Handicap Chase at his home track of Uttoxeter this coming Saturday.

The twenty year old is the guest of honour for the twenty five thousand pound contest named in his honour.

A bumper crowd is expected, and they will be able to watch a very competitive racecard which is sponsored by Totesport.

10 February 2008.

The Listener Goes One Better.

After being collared on the run in during the closing stages of last years Irish Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, The Listener made full amends in the 2008 event.

09 February 2008.

Graham Lee Hopeful.

Despite a double fracture to his jaw, jockey Graham Lee is said to be determined to recover in time to ride a good crop of rides at the Cheltenham Festival.

09 February 2008.

Money To Go To Aintree.

07 February 2008.

Visit Disqualified From Last Years Lowther.

At todays BHA Disciplinary Panel meeting, Sir Michael Stoute accepted he had inadvertantly breached two rules with regard to medical treatments given to his filly, Visit.

The matter had been brought in front of the panel following analysis of a sample taken from Visit after her second placing in the 2007 running of the Jaguar Cars Lowther Stakes at York.

Sir Michael was fined a total of one thousand three hundred pounds for his technical breaches, and Visit was disqualified from the race, with Fleeting Spirit being promoted into second place.

07 February 2008.

Ladbrokes Acquire Eastwood Bookmakers.

Ladbrokes have today completed their acquisition of the Northern Ireland based Eastwood Bookmakers. The purchase of this long established family firm gives Ladbrokes an extra fifty four outlets in Northern Ireland, and they also obtain the facilities of the Eastwood Telephone Betting Centre in Belfast.

By maintaining his riding skills, Fallon also keeps alive the possibility he could eventually return to race riding.

07 February 2008.

2007 Grand National Starter Replaced.

Peter Haines, the starter involved in last years eight minute hold up at the beginning of the Grand National will this year be replaced by Sean McDonald.

Following the publication of the findings of the BHA convened Grand National Review Panel, their three suggestions to improve the start of the Grand National have been fully implemented by the BHA.

At this years Grand National the senior starter will oversee proceedings, and thereafter, the duty will alternate between the senior starter and his assistant.

The marker poles, which were originally two yards behind the starting tape for the Grand National, will be moved back to twenty yards from the starting tape. Furthermore, a straight line of sand will run across the course between the two marker posts, and jockeys will be expected to keep their mounts behind the sand line prior to the release of the starting tape.

Jockeys guilty of starting area infringements will receive increased fines.

The BHA are confident the implementation of these new procedures will prevent the embaressing scenes witnessed during the 2007 start of their national hunt flagship race.

06 February 2008.

BHA Investigate Visit Sample Tomorrow.

At tomorrows BHA Disciplinary Panel meeting, the main area of interest will be the investigation into the banned substance found in a sample taken from the Sir Michael Stoute trained filly, Visit, after her run in last years Jaguar Cars Lowther Stakes at York.

Subject to a final conclusion being reached at the meeting, we will publish full details of the findings in tomorrows news report.

06 February 2008.

Fallon May Become Assistant To Stoute.

Turnell Has Confidence In Blue Bajan.

As the ground continues to dry out at Newbury, trainer Andy Turnell has growing confidence in his entry for the Totesport Trophy. He was already expecting a good performance from his lightly weighted novice Blue Bajan, but Turnell believes the drying ground will favour the chances of his ten to one chance.

06 February 2008.

Connections Believe The Listener Can Go One Better.

After his good second to Beef or Salmon in last years Irish Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, there is increasing confidence amongst connections that The Listener can go one better in Sundays Leopardstown contest.

05 February 2008.

Winning Most Jockeys Sign Up For Ascot.

With a format of four teams of three jockeys from; Britain, Ireland, Europe and The Rest of the World, the Ascot hosted Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup is already regarded as the major competition for race goers to witness the worlds best jockeys battling it out for team and individual honours.

Ascot officials have today announced, this years Shergar Cup on August ninth, has been boosted by the news, the worlds two winning most jockeys will be riding for the Rest of the World team.

Brazilian born, Jorge Ricardo, aged forty six, rode his ten thousandth winner on the ninth of January this year. While American, Russell Baze, aged forty nine, passed the same milestone last Friday, first of February. The two world record breaking jockeys will continue their personal battle when they ride in the three man squad representing the Rest of the World in this years Shergar Cup.

It is hoped, their team captain will be top Japanese rider, Yutaka Take, who rode his first Shergar Cup winner last year, when he gave Legspinner an ultra cool ride to run out winner of the two mile heat.

05 February 2008.

Snowy Morning New Grand National Anti Post Favourite.

After todays weights announcement for this years Grand National, The Willie Mullins trained Snowy Morning has been promoted to ten to one anti post favourite for the Aintree centrepiece.

The original anti post favourite, the Paul Nicholls trained Mister Pointment, has now drifted out to fourteen to one.

05 February 2008.

Mark Johnston Unaware Of Record Breaking Achievement.

It seems the straight talking trainer, Mark Johnston, did not realise yesterdays Southwell winner, Leamington, made him the fastest trainer to reach two thousand british winners. He surpassed the previous quickest haul, which had been set up some years ago by Newmarket legend Henry Cecil.

05 February 2008.

Craven For Ravens?

It is believed, John Gosden is contemplating a run in the Newmarket Craven Stakes as the initial target for his smart three year old prospect, Ravens Pass.

04 February 2008.

BHA Heading For Clash With UK Racecourses.

Based on the contents of a current report, the British Horse Racing Authority are planning to cut the number of racing fixtures for the 2009 season. This proposal has already drawn criticism from the Racecourses Association, and a clash seems inevitable.

Trainer Ferdy Murphy expressed his frustration with BHA rules after he was fined a thousand pounds for bringing some remedial medical equipment into the stable boxes at Doncaster.

This is a very interesting situation, for it is understandable for the BHA to prevent the use of potential stimulants or doping agents in the racecourse boxes. However, Ferdy Murphy makes the argument, many racecourse stable boxes are not very hygienic, and he wants to ensure his horses receive immediate treatment if they have cuts or abrasions.

Perhaps some discussion on the points raised by this incident could be beneficial to the relationship between trainers and the BHA.

03 February 2008.

Saturday Punters Saved By Nicholls Treble.

Saturday afternoon started very badly for punters. The odds on Tidal Bay, made a bad mistake at the sixth fence from homein the Novice Chase at Doncaster, and when he seemed to have recovered and looked sure to win, he made another mistake at the last fence, and lost out in the run in to Les Lingtaylor.

Then at Doncaster and Sandown, trainer Nicky Henderson sent out Sentry Duty and Afsoun to beat the odds on shots, Celestial Halo, and Straw Bear.

Just when the punters were about to raise a white flag, and despite the defeat for his highly regarded Celestial Halo, Paul Nicholls performed his usual Saturday rescue act. The extremely well backed, The Tother One started the ball rolling at Sandown when cruising home in the Grade 3 Totescoopsix Heros Handicap. Then in spite of some erratic behaviour, and probably helped by the absence of anti post favourite Hobbs Hill, Silver Burn kept the Nicholls bandwagon rolling, and the treble at Sandown was completed by the well supported Gunga Du.

Earlier, the Ditcheat trainer had obtained an excellent debutant performance from his South African import, Rippling Ring, who was very impressive in winning division one of the novice hurdle at Doncaster.

03 February 2008.

Meanwhile in the William Hill Lincoln Handicap, Zaahid is now eight to one from ten to one.

31 January 2008.

Five Dream Popular But Jack Is Absent.

As we suggested earlier in the week, the Nicky Henderson trained, Jack the Giant will miss the Totesport Trophy on Saturday week. Todays withdrawal due to injury, now sees Five Dream installed as five to one favourite with Corals and Stan James In the same race Stan James have also reduced Caracciola to twelve to one from sixteen to one, and Dancers Serenade is down to twenty to one from twenty eights.

31 January 2008.

Todays Wincanton Card Hosts First Veterans Race.

The first steeplechase open specifically to horses over ten years of age will take place on todays Wincanton card. The eleven strong field are headed in the weights by last years Ascot United House Gold Cup winner, See You Sometime.

31 January 2008.

David Chapman Retires Today.

After a racing career spanning forty years, Yorkshire trainer, David Chapman, sends out his last two runners at todays Southwell meeting. Reknowned for his sprinters, including peoples favourite, Quito, the trainer is passing on control of his yard to his grand daughter, Ruth Clark.

31 January 2008.

Musselburgh Hoping For Short Artic Blast.

This coming Sunday, 03 February, Musselburgh racecourse is due to stage one of the richest days in Scottish national hunt racing. As a result, officials at the course are hoping the forecast artic blast will be short lived.

If the card goes ahead, the excellent programme will include; The John Smiths County Hurdle, worth thirty thousand pounds, and the John Smiths Triumph Hurdle Trial, worth twenty thousand pounds. Both races are over two miles and a furlong, and the races have attracted top entrants from the UK and Ireland.

31 January 2008.

Runner Up Prepares To Go One Better.

McKelvey, runner up in last years Grand National is to have a preparation race over hurdles before going on to Aintree.

31 January 2008.

Giganticus By Passes Lincoln.

30 January 2008.

Murtagh Becomes Number One At Ballydoyle.

Following his recent french drugs ban, Kieran Fallon has had to make way from his position of main stable jockey at Ballydoyle, and he has been replaced by the irrepressible Johnny Murtagh.

30 January 2008.

Captain Cee Bee Goes To Punchestown.

The unbeaten and J P McManus owned, Captain Cee Bee, is to have his Cheltenham prep race in the Grade Two Byrne Group Novice Hurdle at Punchestown on Sunday. Interestingly, Ladbrokes have today trimmed him from twelve to one to ten to one for the Supreme Novices Hurdle at the festival.

30 January 2008.

Ringaroses Returns.

After nearly a fourteen month absence from the track, the Henrietta Knight trained, Ringaroses will return in a two mile three and a half furlong hurdle at Doncaster on Saturday.

30 January 2008.

Cheltenham For Theatre Girl.

Following her good second to Chomba Womba at Doncaster on Saturday, the Alan King trained Theatre Girl will try to win the Cheltenham prize named in honour of her trainers former boss.

The mare will step up to two miles and four furlongs,and will then attempt to see off her rivals in the Grade Two David Nicholson Mares Only Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

30 January 2008.

Exotic Dancer May Return In Racing Post.

Jonjo O'Neill is considering running Exotic Dancer in the Racing Post Trophy at Kempton Park on 23 February.

30 January 2008.

Noland May Race At Warwick.

Connections of Noland have indicated he may by pass this weekends fixtures, and instead, compete in the Grade Two Kingmaker Chase at Warwick on Saturday week.

30 January 2008.

Sizing Europe Tops Hurdlers List.

29 January 2008.

Meade Halts Operations.

28 January 2008.

On Saturday evening, the eight various annual awards for Irish stable staff were presented by dignitaries from Horse Racing Ireland, and the I S A. Each of the recipients were warmly applauded by the young enthusiastic capacity crowd packed into the Keadeen Hotel at Newbridge.

Tazbar Triumphs As Kyber Kim Flops.

Nicky Henderson must be regreting putting Kyber Kims reputation on the line in the rearranged Grade 2 Rossington Main Hurdle at Doncaster. His charge was sweating freely before the race, and was very disappointing in running. Whereas, Keith Reveleys Tazbar lived up to his Newcastle form, and just held off a determined challenge from Donald McCains Whiteoak.

26 January 2008.

Double Compensation For Henderson.

Although Kyber Kim flopped at Doncaster, trainer Nicky Henderson could take compensation from wins for Chomba Womba in the Grade 2 Mares Hurdle at Doncaster, and from Aig le d'or in the Grade 2 Ballymore Properties Hurdle at Cheltenham.

26 January 2008.

Maljimar Wins Grade 3 betchronicle.com Handicap

Maljimar obviously likes Cheltenham, and put in an excellent performance to win the two mile five furlong chase from Preacher Boy, and last years Coral Cup winner, Burnt Oak Boy. Trainer Nick Williams must be minded to enter his charge in one of the handicap events at the Cheltenham Festival.

26 January 2008.

Nowhere is Something.

Nigel Twiston Davies had a great day. His Cheltenham loving, Nowhere, proved the David Pipe trained Our Vic does not have the stamina to win a Cheltenham Gold Cup, as Nowhere powered past the King George runner up in the final stages of the Grade One Letheby and Christopher Chase at Cheltenham.

This victory must give Nowhere an outside chance in the March running of the Gold Cup.

Later, in the Albert Bartlett Novices Hurdle at Doncaster, Battle Cry worried favourite, Hennessey, out of having his own way in the race, and then stayed on well to hold off a late challenge from Coe.

26 January 2008.

26 January 2008.

Last Ride For Ollie McPhail.

Following his ride in the juvenile hurdle at his local track of Cheltenham, jockey Ollie McPhail will hang up his silks for the last time, and will then take up a new rewarding career talking to school children about every aspect of horse racing.

26 January 2008.

Exotic Dancer Out of Letheby and Christopher.

Further to yesterdays rumour, Jonjo O'Neill has admitted Exotic Dancer will miss Saturdays Letheby and Christopher Chase at Cheltenham. This absence must cast doubts over the participation of Exotic Dancer in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

25 January 2008.

Step Up In Trip For Nickname?

After yesterdays success in the Normans Grove Chase at Gowran Park, connections are considering running Nickname over the extra trip of the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on 10 February.

24 January 2008.

Nickname Holds Off Kicking King.

Further to our earlier report. Although 2005 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Kicking King put in an excellent performance after such a long absence from racing action, he had to play second fiddle to Nickname in todays Grade Two Normans Grove Chase at Gowran Park.

However, connections of Kicking King will take great heart from this creditable performance.

24 January 2008.

Only Three But Real Quality.

On his return to action after a long break, the former Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Kicking King, only has two opponents in todays Normans Grove Chase at Gowran Park. With the defection of Central House the race will consist of Kicking King, star two mile chaser, Nickname, and 2006 Queen Mother Champion Chase winner, New Mill.

24 January 2008.

BHA Disciplinary Panel Cancelled.

Todays Disciplinary Panel, which included the case of jockey Michael Wigham, has been adjourned. This decision was reached as British Horseracing Authority Council Graeme McPherson was unavailable due to illness.

22 January 2008.

Cheltenham Confident for Saturday Fixture.

Cheltenham racecourse have announced, despite the recent inclement weather, they are confident of holding racing on Saturday, and that the going should not be too soft.

22 January 2008.

Noland Success Prompts Rethink.

Despite pouring rain, wind, and heavy going, Noland pulled off a stylish win in yesterdays novice chase at Folkestone. The victory may make owner John Hales have a rethink over his apparent decision to bypass the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham.

22 January 2008.

Aitmatov for AIG Champion Hurdle.

Noel Meade has confirmed Aitmatov will run in Sundays AIG Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown.

22 January 2008.

Neptune Collognes Return Confirmed.

After a nine month absencce from racing, it has been confirmed Neptune Collognes will line up in Saturdays Letheby and Christopher Chase at Cheltenham. It is believed a good performance will frank his chances of participating in the Cheltenham Gold Cup during the March festival.

22 January 2008.

Fairyhouse Off Again.

Saturdays rescheduled Fairyhouse meeting, which was due to take place tomorrow, has been postponed due to the state of the track.

However, the Grade 2 Normans Grove Chase has been transferred to an extended eight race card at Gowran Park on Thursday. The race should see former Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Kicking King, competing against top two miler, Nickname.

22 January 2008.

Kyber Kim to Compete at Doncaster.

Nicky Henderson is to run his Supreme Novices Hurdle anti post favourite, Kyber Kim at Doncaster on Saturday. His charge will compete in the Grade Two Rossington Main Hurdle which has been transferred to Doncaster after the abandonment of last Saturdays card at Haydock Park.

22 January 2008.

Opera Mundi Also At Doncaster.

Following the abandonment of Saturdays fixture at Haydock Park, Opera Mundi was rerouted to Doncaster, and he has been installed as five to one favourite for the Sky Bet Chase on Saturday.

22 January 2008.

Fairyhouse postponed.

Prolonged and excessive rain caused the waterlogging of the course at Fairyhouse, and the fixture has now been rescheduled for Wednesday 23 January, weather permitting.

20 January 2008.

New Body to Promote Racing.

The Race Horse Association and the BHA are to create a new body which will examine ways of raising the profile and public awareness of horse racing in the United Kingdom. The organisation will be headed by the current chairman of the Race Horse Association, David Thorpe. The first objective of the new body is to increase the involvement of all owners, media, race goers, and punters.

20 January 2008.

Asiatic Boy to have Sprint Warm Up.

Dubai World Cup hope Asiatic Boy is to take the unusual step of having a warm up in a Nad al Sheba six furlong sprint this coming Thursdaay.

20 January 2008.

Betting Amongst Friends.

A new betting exchange is currently undergoing test operations. Called, Mates Odds, the platform will allow friends to bet against each other, with financial transactions happening purely between participants.

19 January 2008.

Plans for Permanent Four Day August Meeting.

It was already public knowledge that due to planned groundwork, the York racing programme would end in 2008 with an extended four day Ebor meeting which would take place between the nineteenth and twenty second of August. It now seems the York management committee are planning to turn this four day meeting into a permanent alteration to their annual racing programme.

19 January 2008.

Blue Day for Magic.

The David Pipe trained Tamarind Blue proved to have far too much stamina for Twist Magic in the rain sodden ground at Ascot. The eight year old set a cracking pace in the Grade 1 Victor Chandler Chase, and although Twist Magic was in touch as they turned for home, the six year old soon came off the bridle, and lost any chance when he ploughed through the second last fence.

To be fair to trainer Paul Nicholls, he did advise caution before the off, as he told the BBC he was worried the ground could prove too heavy for his Queen Mother Champion Chase anti post favourite.

Despite the defeat, connections are still confident Twist Magic will show much better form if the going at Cheltenham is favourable.

19 January 2008.

Wee Robbie Snatches Prize.

For three quarters of the Montpelier Group Lightning Novices Chase at Ascot, the two favourites Marodima and Mahogany Blaze, fought each other for supremacy of the race. Having beaten off the challenge from Marodima, turning for home Mahogany Blaze seemed certain to prevail, but his early excertions on the rain sodden ground caught up with hime in the final stages, and enabled Wee Robbie to snatch the race with a well timed late challenge.

19 January 2008.

Label Thou Bounces Back.

After her horrendous fall in a novice chase at Haydock, the gallant mare Label Thou returned to hurdling with a vengeance. Always in the vanguard of the Oilexco Mares Only Grade 2 Hurdle, she stormed clear in the home straight, and kept enough in reserve to see off a late challenge from the smart Refinement.

19 January 2008.

18 January 2008.

Sanders Ban.

Joint champion flat jockey Seb Sanders has been banned from racing for twelve days by the BHA Disciplinary Panel for passing the trigger point of twenty four days for whip violations.

17 January 2008.

Mc Coy Injured.

Champion jockey Tony McCoy suffered a crashing fall from Arnold Lane at the fourteenth fence of the Warwick Classic Chase. After being carefully attended by ambulance men, he was fitted with a neck brace and taken directly to Coventry hospital for x rays and assessment.

The race was eventually won by the sixteen to one outsider D'Argent.

12 January 2008.

Carruthers boosts Lodge Lane Form.

The win by Carruthers in the Grade 2 Leamington Novice Hurdle at Warwick paid a major compliment to his Exeter conqueror Lodge Lane, and the latter must come into the reckoning for some of the novice hurdle prizes during the spring racing festivals.

12 January 2008.

Niktios Lands the Lanzarote Odds.

The Paul Nicholls trained Niktios backed up his seven to four favouritism for the Lanzarote Hurdle at Kempton Park, and duly landed the odds for delighted punters.

11 January 2008.

William Hill Sign with Turf TV.

William Hill became the latest bookmaking company to sign up for Turf TV race coverage in their betting shops.

The Paul Nicholls trained Breeds Breeze was a very comfortable winner of the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle at Sandown Park, and seems certain to be challenging for favouritism in his preferred Cheltenham Festival target.

05 January 2008.

Smith Knight Relationship Ending?

Owner Jim Smith seems to be severing his ties with trainer Henrietta Knight. The owner of the legendary Best Mate has removed all but one of his horses from the West Lockinge Farm stables. Only the injured Impec still remains at the Knight training establishment.

05 January 2008.

Briareus Out for Season.

Trainer Andrew Balding has reported his 2007 Kingwell Hurdle winner Briareus will be sidelined for the rest of the current national hunt season.

05 January 2008.

Second Blow for Llewellyn.

Following close on the recent season long sidelining of Dempsey, trainer Carl Llewellyn has announced his 2007 runner up to Denman, Snake Bite, is also out for the current season.

03 January 2008.

Quinn Given All Clear.

After ten weeks sidelined with a back injury, jockey Jimmy Quinn has been given the all clear to recommence riding.

03 January 2008.

William Hill Sponsorship for Doncaster.

Bookmakers William Hill have announced their intention to sponsor a new £100,000 steeplechase on the 02 February card at Doncaster.

01 January 2008.

Tramore Farce.

Tramore became the venue for a real new years day farce. In the two mile five furlong Newtown Handicap Chase, all fourteen runners stopped racing with a full circuit still to run. Upon realising their mistake, only five jockeys set off on the final circuit. The stewards later banned the remaining nine jockeys for five days a piece.

01 January 2008.

Turf TV Turn on.

The newly formed Turf Tv today started its feed to subscribing betting shops. The company hopes to sign up several large bookmaking organisations over the next few days.

01 January 2008.

New Channel 4 Racing Sponsor.

In a new two year deal, Dubai Holdings today took over from the Tote as official sponsors of Channel 4 Racing.

01 January 2008.

Hot Weld and Dempsey Probably Both Out for Season.

Ferdie Murphy has reported his 2007 Scottish Grand National winner Hot Weld has suffered a haematoma, and will not run in the Grand National.

Meanwhile, Trainer Carl Llewellyn has reported his charge Dempsey has a recurring problem on the knee of his left fore, and will be sidelined for the rest of the national hunt season.

31 December 2007.

Lost in Action.

2007 proved to be a year in which many top flight horses were sadly lost while in racing action. The list has to be headed by the enigmatic George Washington, who broke a leg during the rain soaked proceedings at the Breeders Cup. Other major losses were, Take a bow, Macs Joy, Detroit City, Iktitaf, and Granite Jack.

30 December 2007.

Tote Chairman Retires

After over twelve years of service to the Tote, Peter Jones has retired from his position as Chairman of the organisation. He took over from Lord Wyatt on 01 August 1997, and has helped to steer the Tote through many changes, and is happy to be leaving the business in a healthy position.

29 December 2007.

Hardy Eustace Becomes a Millionaire.

Despite his one length defeat by Al Eile in Leopardstowns Grade 1 bewleyshotel.com December Festival Hurdle, by taking second place Hardy Eustace joined a very exclusive group of national hunt horses who have won over a million pounds in prize money.

29 December 2007.

Bargain Buy Souffleur Wins Challow.

Bought for a mere 5,000 guineas, and part owned by the trainers wife, Souffleur enjoyed the Newbury course and saw off the remainder of the Challow Hurdle field by six lengths. Suprisingly, the victory gave welsh based trainer Peter Bowen his first Grade 1 winner over hurdles.

28 December 2007.

Denman Wins Lexus.

Like stable companion Kauto Star, Denman duly won his Christmas holiday target of the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown, and although he was barely troubled and won by four lengths, the performance would be best described as workmanlike rather than outstanding.

27 December 2007

Miko de Beauchene Boosts Robert Alner.

Seriously injured trainer Robert Alner received the best possible boost when his tough charge, Miko de Beauchene battled past 2006 winner Halcon Genelardais, in the tight finish of the 2007 Welsh Grand National at Chepstow.

27 December 2007.

Franchoek Wins Finale.

On the same Chepstow card, Alan Kings up and coming hurdler, Franchoek, bounced back from his defeat to Irish hurdler Harper Valley, and won the well contested Grade One Coral Finale Juvenile Hurdle.

26 December 2007

Kauto Outshines Rivals in King George.

During the running of the Boxing Day King George Steeplechase at Kempton Park, in an attempt to take the sting out of Kauto Star, champion jockey Tony McCoy tried front running tactics on his mount Exotic Dancer. Unfortunately for Exotic Dancer and McCoy, the new tactics failed. Kauto Star was at his brilliant best, and swept past his old advesary in imperious style, eventually winning the Grade One event by eleven lengths from the rallying Our Vic. The tiring Exotic Dancer had to settle for third after holding off Racing Demon over the run in.

23 December 2007.

USA - Dale Baird Dies in Accident.

The winningmost trainer in American racing history, Dale Baird, died in a tragic car accident on Sunday 23 December. The seventy two year old trainer saddled a staggering 9,445 winners during a long and illustrious racing career.

November 2007.

Detroit City Fatality.

Former Cesarawitch winner, and smart young hurdler,Detroit City, appeared to suffer a fatal fall at the second flight in the Coral Ascot Hurdle on Saturday 24 November. However, a subsequent post mortem indicated the five year old died of a heart condition.

November 2007.

Kevin Darley Retires.

After a riding career covering thirty one years, former champion jockey Kevin Darley has announced his retirement.

September 2007.

Tralee to close.

At an extraordinary general meeting of the directors and shareholders of the Ballybeggan Park Race Company Limited, it was decided to sell the current Tralee racecourse site to a development company led by John J Casey and Seamus O Halloran.

Over the last five years, the racecourse company tried various methods to boost racing at the Ballybeggan Park course, but after careful consideration of the future economic viability of the racecourse, the decision to make the sale was supported by eighty per cent of the shareholders.

It is believed racing will still take place in 2008, and possibly 2009. Thereafter, any future racing activity in Tralee will be dependnt on the establishment of a new racing company.