There are certain stories that can give you a really nice feeling to be part of. One of those is when you see a horse thrive and get back to their best showing that they are enjoying their racing. Eeh Bah Gum had tumbled down the weights in recent years but is back, getting ever closer to his best. The 7yo secured his third win of the season when showing blistering speed in the 5f Oakmere Homes Handicap at Haydock.
Arriving at Hambleton Lodge at the start of 2022, Eeh Bah Gum was on a 3 1/2 year losing streak, dropping to a mark of 57. Obviously there had been issues and a lack of confidence from the gelding, so Kevin was tasked with trying to start a revival. Slowly but surely, Eeh Bah Gum began to find this confidence and his form reflected that. Once he gained his long overdue win in June, Eeh Bah Gum has really found a purple patch.
Oisin McSweeney has struck up a great relationship with the 7yo, partnering him for both his wins and maintained the partnership for Haydock. Despite winning last time out, the 7lb rise seemed to put off the punters for this competitive handicap and Eeh Bah Gum was around the 9/1 mark.
It is never easy to judge exactly where the pace will develop in these races as it is a calvary charge over this distance. Eeh Bah Gum was well away and as always Oisin just dropped his hands, allowing the gelding to find his own rhythm. It was the near side where the early pace came from and they quickly opened up a lead, stretching out the field. Eeh Bah Gum was stuck out on the wing down the far side, sitting in mid division through the first half of the race.
Something that has always been important to Eeh Bah Gum is ground and the very quick going was ideal for him. Travelling well throughout the first half of the race, he pulled himself to the fore with ease. There was no let up but as Eeh Bah Gum began to get involved, some of his rivals were more inclined to try and race nearer to him. They were spread across the track passing the 2f marker but it was Gum who looked to be going best of all.
Oisin offered himself the chance to look across to check his progress and he would have liked what he saw. Now he loosened the reins and his mount responded by quickening up. Eeh Bah Gum kicked clear on his side and it was the favourite who would give chase down the near side.
Holding around a length lead, Eeh Bah Gum entered the final furlong with eyes for the winning post. The leading pair pulled away from the rest and it looked as though the finish would be decided by these two. Eeh Bah Gum was skipping across the ground and was always holding the favourite. His rival would have one last go but would need a huge effort to quicken past. That never happened and Eeh Bah Gum matched his rival to stride out and gain a third success of the season by 1/2 length.
Eeh Bah Gum has really thrived in recent months and it is fantastic for him to repay the patience shown by owners Nick and Lena Rhodes. Ground is very important for the gelding and he will continue to run until the rain kicks in. Having won off 71, Eeh Bah Gum will be reassessed once more and it will be interesting to see how the handicapper sees this patch of form. Having shown a liking for Musselburgh, the 7yo may make a quick reappearance with the Scottish track offering a £25,000 handicap.
This season has seen quite a few, very short priced favourites, getting turned over. Proof that there is not such thing as a certainty, a 1-16 shot became one of the shortest priced favs to be beaten. Invisible Friend was only seeing the race track for the second time and she ensured that there were no blushes from connections as she bolted up in the 1m1f Welton Novice Stakes at Carlisle.
Having made a belated debut at Haydock, the daughter of Sea The Stars made a big impression finishing third. The form of that novice looked strong and has been boosted since. Invisible Friend had loomed up dangerously in that contest before getting a little tired and showing inexperience in the latter stages. She had run a race full of promise but also shaped as though a longer trip may be more beneficial.
Although the options were far from plentiful, Kevin managed to find a very good opportunity for the 3yo filly. With just three lining up for the contest, Invisible Friend would be sent off the 2-9 favourite. Kevin Stott took the ride and would keep things as simple as possible.
With just a trio of runners there was very little drama in the race. Having jumped well, Invisible Friend was sent to the front and barely saw her rivals. Confident the trip would be no issue, Kevin allowed his mount stride on and set an even gallop. Her two rivals would take a lead and let the favourite dictate.
The race would go pretty much as expected but there were areas of improvement for the filly. She ran very green still and would become unbalanced racing around the bend. Carlisle is not the most straight forward track and this can happen with inexperienced horses.
Kevin was trying to educate his filly throughout and gave her a shake up form the 3f pole. Again, Invisible Friend was unsure of what to do and Stott had to work to keep her moving forward. Everything was in hand and there was never any danger. Both Invisible Friend and her rival would wander around in the latter stages but it was the favourite who had plenty of running left. Despite not being 100% sure, Invisible Friend would stride out in the final furlong when the penny began to drop. Going clear, she would put 5 lengths between herself and the runner up.
Invisible Friend has a lovely pedigree and with her future breeding career, it was important to get the first win under her belt. Obviously she is a work in progress and will learn again for this experience. The best of Invisible Friend will be next year again when she has more time to fill out and mature. Going forward connections will have to check what options there are but the filly looks like she has plenty of talent. It may be a quiet enough campaign this season with next year being Invisible Friend’s main plan.
York is important to all northern trainers and the Ebor Festival brings top class racing to Yorkshire. Four days of superb action where a winner is hard to come by but is welcomed in with celebrations. Owners Peter Tingey and Angie Bailey have always looked to enjoy winners at York and 9 years on from Bogart winning the 5 1/2f Sky Bet and Symphony Group Handicap, Bergerac took the opener with a brave performance.
The 4yr old son of Kodi Bear had already shown a liking for the Knavesmire when he won a competitive 3yo handicap there last year. Having started this year in good form, where he finished placed on his opening 3 runs, Bergerac looked set for a big season. Unfortunately some poor draws, as well as underwhelming performances, saw some disappointing runs in the mid season. It was once the blinkers were fitted that Bergerac hit back and regained his form, gaining his first win of the year last time out. He is not an un-genuine horse but the headgear really helped him concentrate throughout the race.
Clearly the sprinter was going to be heading to York but the choice of race may have been a surprise. Connections opted for the 5 1/2f race rather than the 6f he has been running over for the majority of his career. Lining up against 21 rivals, some of whom are real speedball sprinters, it would be interesting to see how Bergerac would race. Tom Eaves has enjoyed great success in the yellow and purple silks, donning them once again at York as he took the leg up. Drawn on the far side, Bergerac shot out of the stalls, jumping that quickly he landed in front and held a length advantage from the off. Tom planned to keep it simple and it seemed as though he had a partner willing to do just that.
Although he has always been a quick horse, it was surprising to see him leading the 22 runners over this trip. Racing toward the far rail, the gelding was showing good speed and travelled full of enthusiasm. They were down past halfway in a flash and Tom was always happy letting his mount run nicely in his hands. Stamina was always going to be a positive for Bergerac so now he needed to show that he could quicken up from this pace. Baring down on the 2f marker, Bergerac was the last one to come off the bridle and
Reem Three has been a wonderful mare for owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum. Not only has she produced winners but the majority of her offspring have been mainstays in pattern company. Captain Winters followed his siblings by maintaining his dam’s winning stats when he got off the mark in the 7f Irish Stallion Farms EBF Novice Stakes at Thirsk.
Triple Time was one of last season’s stand out juveniles and 1/2 brother followed a very similar path to his first win. Captain Winters began his career over 6f, running respectably before then going on to be runner up when stepping up to 7f on his second start. Just like his brother, Captain Winters proved it was third time the charm but his win came over a furlong shorter.
Having run to a fair standard in his first two starts, Captain Winters would go off the 2/1 fav. Kevin Stott was in the saddle as the pair would take on 10 rivals at their local track. Chasing the leaders from the off, Captain Winters was settled around mid division as they quickly headed through the first furlong, taking the field into the bend. The sweeping bend saw the field through the first half of the race with the pace being a fair one. Captain Winters travelled smoothly just on the outer as they headed into the straight. Thirsk offers plenty of time to challenge so turning for home there was still over half the race left to run.
Angled out, Kevin had his mount in clear daylight passing the 3f marker as his colt moved up travelling well. The race heated up with the leaders trying to quicken and this saw Stott nudge his mount to get him lengthening. Just over 2f from home Captain Winters jinked to his left, subsequently bumping his rival but Kevin quickly adjusted the colt. Now he got into his drive to try and regain the momentum lost and the pair moved through to challenge for the lead.
Captain Winters shifted through the gears and was making good headway down the outer as he came through to vie for the lead. Sticking his nose to the fore, Captain Winters took the advantage but whilst doing so he began to edge left. He lugged into his rival which again gave Stott some readjustment work to do and the pair had the lead heading inside the final furlong. Despite his experience, Captain Winters was rolling around under pressure, which Kevin continually had to counter. His market rival was proving very tough and wasn’t being helped by Captain Winters. The final m1/2 furlong was a battle to the line but the closer they got, the stronger Captain Winters was proving to be. Edging the lead in the final strides he dived for the line, taking the win by a hard earned head victory.
Having improved with each run, it was great to see Captain Winters get his head in front. There was a lengthy stewards enquiry and it was a 50/50 call. Despite this being his third run, it was clear that Captain Winters still has a little bit to learn and there could be more to come from the colt. He is bred to get better with time and racing so a step up in grade could now be on the agenda. His brother, Triple Time, won the listed Ascendant stakes at Haydock and Captain Winters could follow the same path moving forward.
Starting the week and finishing the week with a treble has seen the season tally hit the half century. Eeh Bah Gum, Lady Raeburn and Bergerac all won in convincing fashion to notch a treble for the team.
Well handicapped horses can be great to follow but also quite dangerous as they become that for a reason. Eeh Bah Gum only joined the team at the start of the year but was without a win since 2018. Having got his confidence back Eeh Bah Gum made it two wins for the year when taking the 5f Madeline Cup Handicap with ease.
Having started the year on the all-weather, Eeh Bah Gum made gentle steps forward to rebuild his confidence. It wasn’t until he hit the turf that he began to really put runs together and managed to gain a well deserved win at Mussleburgh. He continued to build on that with a couple of fine second placed efforts before finding himself on the wrong side of the draw at York for the Jump Jockeys Nunthorpe.
Returning to Musselburgh with Oisin McSweeney back on board, Eeh Bah Gum would only face 3 rivals. Conditions were in his favour and having the plum draw this time around, Oisin looked to be positive from the outset. Sitting handily on the rail, Eeh Bah Gum was just on the leader’s girths from the off. The pace was fair which saw the four runners well bunched up in a diamond formation.
Halfway the track kicks out with a little kink in the rail. Being sat up against it allowed Oisin to just follow it around without getting pushed off it. Eeh Bah Gum travelled supremely well and was hard on the bridle passing the 2f marker. Pulling his way to the fore he edged his nose alongside the leader which put the pressure on his rivals. As the others cam e under a drive, Oisin was sat motionless.
It was pretty clear heading to the final furlong that if Eeh Bah Gum quickened up it was game over. As Oisin loosened the reins his mount scooted clear and put the race to bed. It was a victory procession as Eeh Bah Gum poured it on under minimal pressure. Drawing further away he took the contest comfortably, under a hands and heels ride, stretching to a 2 3/4 length winning margin.
Eeh Bah Gum has thrived over the past few months and it great to see him not just winning but maintaining his form. He loves quicker ground and is taking his racing well so he should be out again soon. With a good record at Musselburgh, Eeh Bah Gum may be heading back across the border to build on his course form.
The Callan/Ryan combination was a winning machine before the jockey departed for Hong Kong. Friday eying at Newmarket was a throw back to those days when they teamed up for a double. Lady Raeburn had knocked on the door a few occasions this year but she finally got her head in front once more when taking the 7f Follow @racingtv On Instagram Fillies Handicap.
Lady Raeburn had stepped up in trip to 6f this season but recently she had been staying on strong over the trip. This led to the entry over 7f which looked likely to suit but was an unknown. Her 4 rivals had all contested races over this trip or even further so it was difficult to assess her chances before the race.
Sluggish from the stalls, Lady Raeburn recovered to chase the leader towards the centre of the track. This all changed after the first furlong with a pair of rivals towards the near side charging through to take over at the head of affairs. The race was completely split with the five runners forming two distinct groups.
Although they had raced on the near side, the group of two were the outsiders of the field. It became clear around 3f that they may be on the wrong part of the track. The field began to get racing as they raced into the dip and towards the rising ground. There was a change of leaders with the centre group now taking over and basically ending the chances of the two on the near side. Lady Raeburn had followed the leader throughout and Callan began to work away to get his filly lengthening and she maintained her challenge on the leader’s coat tails.
As they raced up the hill and into the final furlong, Lady Raeburn was going into the unknown but Neil hadn’t yet gone for everything. The front two had the race at their mercy and sensing the win, Callan now switched out and took the lead. It was here that he asked for full tilt and Lady Raeburn delivered, quickening up and moving away from her rival. Stamina proved to be no issue and Lady Raeburn stretched clear to record a first win of the season by an easy 2 lengths.
It was fantastic to see the filly gain another win and there could well be more to come from her now. Always travelling smoothly she quickened up nicely and the trip proved no issue at all. Unexposed at the trip she could easily go on from this and gain more success through the rest of the season.
The day’s racing was wrapped up just 30 mins later and ended with the treble being confirmed courtesy of Bergerac. Again a small field lined up but it was task completed for Bergerac as he easily took the 6f Follow @racingtv on Twitter Handicap on Newmarket’s July Course.
It has been a frustrating year with Bergerac as he has gone close in some big handicaps and been dealt some poor draws on other occasions. Early season positivity led to thoughts of the big meetings but unfortunately Bergerac went the opposite way. He got back on track last time when Neil was in the saddle, finishing runner up and returned to Newmarket to make up of the narrow defeats this season.
Blinkers were fitted for the first time, having previously tried cheek pieces. Although Bergerac is not un-genuine, there are parts of the race where he can be a little lazy. With just a trio lined up, Neil took control and rousted his mount to the lead. All three of the runners had shown potential to move up in grade but recently had been slightly disappointing.
There was no other thought than to keep the wheels turning as Neil poured it on from he front. Bergerac was being forced all the way with his rival proving quite free before jinking over 4f out. Straight as a gun barrel, Bergerac charged down the centre of the track.
Very little changed throughout the contes and Neil kept the revs up. Moving into the final 2f, Bergerac had his leading margin cut. Pressed he maintained the pace whilst Neil began to ease him on. It was as close as anyone would get to him and closing on the final furlong, Callan kicked into gear and went into his drive. The response was not immediate but Neil wasn’t giving his mount time to think and drove him on. Bergerac knew what he had to do and changed his legs, pulling clear. The race was over as Bergerac strode out to secure the win by 3 lengths.
This race looked the perfect opportunity for Bergerac and it was nice to see him go through and win. The blinkers looked to have kept his mind open the job and it could be that they stay on for the next few runs. He is a good horse and could certainly step up into the top handicaps. York may be the next port of call for him, having there last season and it would be great to see him get build on this win.
August is an important month for the team with York’s Ebor meeting just weeks away. It is a big meeting so to go into the week in good form is always a boost. Dubai Jemila, Aleezdancer and Spiritofthenorth racked up a treble to kickstart the month and continue the good form of the yard.
This year saw the introduction of the Dubai World Cup Breeze up sales hosted by Goffs. With 72 lots up for sale, the selected lots offered progeny to suit worldwide racing with an array of stallions. Dubai Jemila made history as she became the first winner from the sale when taking the 7f British Stallion Studs EBF Fillies Novice Stakes at Ayr.
Starting her career at Beverley, Dubai Jemila began over 5f. Very green from the start and showing her inexperience, she stayed on towards the end of the race, being strongest at the line. Although she had shown plenty of speed in her home work, it seemed as though a sterner stamina test was needed following her debut.
Only five runners would line up at Ayr but it looked an interesting novice race. Dubai Jemila was taking a fair step up in trip, adding 2f on to her debut run. Despite going up against a previous winner, who would be carrying a penalty for that success, the filly was vying for favouritism but ultimately would be 11/8 second fav.
Tom Eaves took the ride and was positive from the start. Having jumped well, Dubai Jemila led through the early stages. There was no competition for the lead so Tom was able to dictate a steady pace. Racing through the first couple of furlongs the field headed into the left handed bend with very little separating the 5 strong field.
There was very little change in the race until Tom decided to increase the tempo. Nobody committed too early and the five runners travelled well into the home straight. Dubai Jemila could try and kick from the front but it was all about timing. With no pressure Tom just allowed his filly to travel where she was happy.
Increasing the tempo at the 2f marker, Dubai Jemila looked to stretch her legs and quicken. This created a domino effect as all her rivals matched this move. The sprint was on for the finish and all five runners had their chance. Dubai Jemila was lengthening under a drive and continued to hold the advantage along the rail.
Moving into the final furlong Dubai Jemila looked under big pressure from a couple of rivals. This trio began to move away from the others as they battled it out for the lead. Although she continued to find more, Dubai Jemila lost the lead and was headed. Tom was still getting a tune from his filly and she dug deep for him. Changing her legs, Dubai Jemila rallied and went again. Looking to overcome the head deficit she quickened up once more. The lead changed hands once more with 100 yards to run as the chestnut came back at her rivals. Grabbing the lead back, Dubai Jemila now started to stride out and was getting on top the further they went. Hitting the line well, she secured a first win by 1/2 length.
Dubai Jemila showed a great attitude to win and looks like a filly who has a bright future. Although she made the running, there were signs of inexperience still and she will continue to improve with racing. The step up in trip really suited and it even looks as though Dubai Jemila could get a touch further in time.
Three year olds can be a difficult age group to place. They are young horses coming on from their juvenile season and are maturing all the time. Aleezdancer had proven himself a smart enough 2yo when conditions suited and he was back to winning ways when taking the feature 6f Wilmot-Smith Memorial Handicap at Ripon.
Aleezdancer began the year off a mark of 91, which would see him competing in some tough handicaps. Connections always knew he would require ease in the ground so it would be a case of waiting for conditions to suit. Last year he had shaped as though 7f would be his trip and that is what Aleezdancer started over this season. Having run well over the trip it looked as though a win was waiting to come although it may be an autumn campaign when the gelding would be likely to get his preferred going.
Unfortunately when everyone else was enjoying a hot summer, Aleezdancer was praying for rain. He went up to Newcastle for a 7f handicap as the Tapeta offers lower going when the heat has the opposite effect. Running well for a long way, Aleezdancer just weakened late on and suggested that a drop back to sprinting may be the key to getting back to winning ways. Although there would be plenty of options, it was Mother Nature who would decide when Aleezdancer would tackle 6f once again.
The feature race attracted just 5 runners but they were a quality bunch, sown by Aleezdancer being the lowest rated off 89. Good to soft going was perfect but it was interesting to see the 3yo back sprinting. Kevin Stott has been enjoying a good run of form recently and was back on board. Jumping on terms, Aleezdancer tagged on to the leader, sat just behind as they charged through the first furlong. With the small field size, they race towards the near side as the leader took the rail and blazed a trail.
Dropping in trip can be tricky with the race having a different tempo but Aleezdancer showed good early speed and travelled well. The early pace had been strong but it soon steadied up as they raced down towards halfway. It was at this point that Kevin just had to nudge his mount along to maintain his position. The lead had changed hands as Dakota Gold moved to the front and this was exactly who Aleezdancer had tracked from the start.
Moving towards the 2f marker Kevin felt his mount come good underneath him as Aleezdancer cruised through on the bridle. Suddenly he loomed up alongside the leader but Stott wanted to take a bit more time. The leading pair began to edge away from the others as they took each other on. Aleezdancer looked to be going the better but he was up against a talented veteran.
Having the race between them the leading duo would fight it out for the final furlong. Kevin asked his mount to go and win the race which Aleezdancer obliged. Quickening up he edged his rival and began to find more. His rival was brave once headed and tried to rally. It was neck and neck with 1/2f to run but it was at this point where Aleezdancer found a bit more. He had plenty more to give and started to power on, moving away from his challenger. Hitting the line well, Aleezdancer earned his first win of the season by 3/4 length and arguably a career best performance.
It was fantastic to see Aleezdancer get his head in front and he confirmed that 6f is his trip. Having travelled well he quickened up nicely and was strong at the line. It suggests that a bigger field could be ideal for the gelding where they go a really strong gallop. He travels very well and this could benefit him far more. Ground is key but there are plenty of options in the Autumn and the plan would be to head to Ayr now, with the Silver Cup a likely target.
A good day turned into a great day with the treble completed in Ripon’s finale. Spiritofthenorth has been one of the most consistent performers but not always been the easiest to win with. That all changed with a brave performance in the 1m4f Goodbyeflys Ripon Racecourse Stable Staff Championships Handicap.
From 22 career efforts Spiritofthenorth had finished in the first three on 16 occasions. That sort of consistency is hard to come by and especially when he also transferred it to the NH sphere. Having had a nice break since running over hurdles, Spiritofthenorth had returned to the flat with a good run over 1m2f. The way he stayed on that day suggested that trying 1m4f for the first time could be beneficial.
Kevin Stott was in the saddle again and felt he had figured out the 5yo. His tactics were clear from the off as he drove his mount into the lead. There was a challenge for the early lead but Kevin was determined to dictate and ensured Spiritofthenorth was the one to take control. Despite winning the early battle he was continually challenged which meant there was a strong gallop up front.
Although it took a while down the back straight, the field eventually settled into their positions as Stott let his mount stride on. Now that everything calmed down, he could give Spiritofthenorth a bit of a breather and let him find a sensible rhythm. The five runners galloped down the far straight and almost in single file, heading into the home bend.
Swinging around the bend allowed Kevin to fill the tank up, giving Spiritofthenorth another breather. It was a waiting game in front, trying to perfect the time to kick on and stretch the field. Entering the home straight they still had 4f to go, a long way to run. Kevin loosened the reins to allow his mount to lengthen and increase the tempo. His nearest pursuer couldn’t match this and weakened away to leave other rivals the chance to have a go at Spiritofthenorth.
From 3f out Kevin got into his drive. Spiritofthenorth responded but lengthening his stride in front. He had a bullseye on his back from the off and was under pressure. As they raced on to the final 2f the race split up with Spiritofthenorth pulling away with one other. The leading pair were taking each other along which saw the rest toils in their wake.
All the way down the straight Spiritofthenorth had looked like a sitting duck but they didn’t know how much he had in the tank. Every time his rival got close, Spiritofthenorth would go again. Kevin was asking and his mount was answering. It was when they passed the 1f marker that Spiritofthenorth looked on top. He had been holding his rival at bay and now he began to power on. There were no further challenges coming and Spiritofthenorth pulled away, galloping out to a 3/4 length victory.
Horse and jockey both deserve huge credit for this win. Kevin Stott perfected his tactics but he had a very willing partner with Spiritofthenorth. The trip was a first but he saw out every yard and looks sure to stick to this stamina test. He showed a great attitude all the way down the straight and was well on top at the line. Spiritofthenorth is consistent but also very versatile so the options open to him are countless.
Getting on a run and unlocking the winning feeling can really help horses fine a new level of form. It took Shaladar a good number of runs, a new trip and a course he has seemingly taken a liking to, to capture winning form. Having shed his maiden and finished second at Hamilton, Shaladar earned is second win in impressive fashion taking the 1m 1/2f German Done Kebab Handicap.
Although it didn’t feel like it last year, Shaladar has proven to be a a bit of a slow burner. He had gone close a few times but it took until June this season to find out what his ideal conditions were. Once the 3yo was stepped up to an extended mile, he really put his best foot forward to secure a first career win. What was even better, Shaladar then backed that run up with a couple of second placed finishes, maintaining his form for three races on the spin.
Despite showing good recent form, Shaladar had only been raised 4lb since his win and remained on a mark of 73 after his runner up efforts. Although well beaten in second last time out at Leicester, it was a career best effort. Dropping back down in grade to visit Hamilton once again, Shaladar would be partnered by Tom Eaves who had guided him to his sole victory.
The 8 strong field that lined up promised to set a fair gallop and that was immediately true as the gates opened. Shaladar had shown a liking to patient tactics and Tom adopted them, settling the gelding at the rear of the field. With a couple of rivals wanting to push on, the pace was a good tempo which would continue around the top of the loop and into the home straight.
Entering the top of the home straight the ground begins to run away from the horses, as they begin a downhill run. The leaders had tried to steady things up but now the field could free wheel down towards the stiff finish. Tom was watching on from the back of the field and could react to his rivals moves. Increasing the pace stride by stride, the field ran down past the 3f marker almost hitting top speed. This was the point that the leaders tried to kick from the front and stretch the rest.
Obviously Shaladar had the entire field to pass if he were to win so Tom angled him out around 2 1/f out. As he did so the gelding began to pick up and moved up smoothly down the outside. Moving into the final 2f the leaders were already beginning to wain and those who had raced towards the rear were looking to come home the strongest.
Between the 2f and 1f marker, Shaladar and eventual runner up Under Fox began to pull away from the rest of the field. It seemed as though the race was between this pair as they hit the rising ground. Although Shaladar had come under pressure before his rival, it was him who was getting stronger as the stamina kicked in. Tom went for full throttle moving into he final furlong and he got the response required. Lengthening and quickening, the bay gelding moved to the front and had all the momentum. Sweeping past his rival, Shaladar stayed every yard of the trip well and ran out a ready winner, securing his second C&D win by 1 1/4 lengths.
Shaladar has really strung together a nice run of form and looks like he could be quite progressive at this trip. He looks to enjoy coming off a strong gallop which bodes well as he steps up through the grades. An end to end gallop looks ideal for him but he went away from the runner up this time and won with a bit in hand. Hambleton Racing have enjoyed another fine season and they may just have a 3yo who could keep racking up the wins.
The horses are in fine form at present and the winners are flowing. Saturday provided some fantastic racing throughout Britain and it is always the hardest day to get on to the scoresheet. Thankfully Catch The Paddy and Cotai West provided the team with a nice double.
Catch The Paddy may be a work in progress but he has made a bright start to his racing career. The son of No Nay Never has not only proved quality on the track but a legend to deal with. Strong and laid back, Catch The Paddy took another impressive step forward in his career when winning the 6f Sky bet In Running Nursery Handicap at York.
Having made his debut over C&D, when catching the eye finishing runner up, Catch The Paddy has done nothing but improve. Filling the same berth second time out, he made no mistake when on the third try at Hamilton. With his two conquerors both going on to be placed at Gr2 level, it was interesting to see what the handicapper might do. An opening mark of 82 seemed fair and so Catch The Paddy was aimed at York for his nursery bow.
It was a small field of 6 that would line up and looking through you could possibly say most could be improving off their mark. Catch The Paddy looked potentially the one who could be well in and the punters would send him off the 5/4 fav. Kevin Stott has already bonded well with the colt and took the leg up on him once more.
The pace came from the one contender yet to ever try 6f. It was a good gallop set and this allowed Kevin just take on to the pace and settle in behind the leaders. The field raced towards the far side of the track as they flew through the early stages.
Due to the small field and strong pace, the race would heat up a long way from home. By halfway they began to spread out as the jockeys manoeuvred into their challenging positions. Catch The Paddy was moving sweetly and pulled his way closer to the front. As the leaders started to come under pressure, Catch The Paddy moved up and was challenging for the lead. Kevin hadn’t moved a muscle but his mount had taken him all the way there. His nearest market rival immediately looked to cover the move and switched out from behind Paddy.
Passing the 2f marker and now Kevin pressed the button. Lengthening, Paddy moved clear and pulled Dare to Hope along with him. The leading pair quickly moved away from the rest and looked to have it between them. Catch The Paddy was not into top gear yet and was under pressure from his rival. Lengthening all the time, Paddy started to edge ahead as they moved into the final furlong. Now he had momentum and was starting to hit top gear. Holding 1/2 length advantage, Catch The Paddy could now power on, pulling further away the further they went. His last 1/2f was his best and by the line he had kicked clear by 2 lengths, with the rest well spread out.
Catch The Paddy is a lovely prospect and has done nothing wrong so far. He bumped into a couple of smart juveniles themselves and he looks like a really nice colt in the making. Far from the end product, Catch The Paddy will be better with racing and you may not see the best of him until next year. He does hold an entry in the Gimcrack Stakes back at the Ebor meeting. Catch The Paddy has certainly shown he deserves a crack at a race like that but if it comes too soon there is also the big nursery at the same meeting.
Unlucky is a hard word to use in racing sometimes because you never know what might have happened if it did all go right. Cotai West looked like she was full of running when no gaps opened up for her last time and could be seen as an unlucky loser. Whether or not that would have happened, nobody knows but she made no mistake when winning the 5f Brain Tumour Charity Handicap at Newmarket.
Having made one start as a juvenile last year, Cotai West proved to be ultra consistent in novice/maiden company. Having finished placed on her first four starts, Cotai West broke her duck on the fourth attempt. She earned a fair mark of 71 when stepping into handicaps for the first time. At Beverley she got no run at all, locked up behind horses for 4 1/2f of the 5f contest. It did seem as though she was unlucky so connections were hopeful she could put that right before long.
Shane Gray travelled down for the ride as 6 runners would line up. In the race was a filly who had finished only a neck ahead of her last time out but who had since won. This meant that Cotai West had a 9lb pull from last time, which felt like a big plus for her.
The pace was strong from the off as the field converged together and aimed for the centre of the track. Shane looked to get his filly settled early on and she tucked just off the leader. They blasted through the first half of the race as the favourite led the field a merry dance. Cotai West has certainly matured through racing and travelled smoothly for Shane.
They got racing by halfway as the strong gallop forced them to challenge the leader. With the small field, there was plenty of daylight for Shane to aim for and he rousted his filly along moving into the final couple of furlongs. They were 3-4 spread across the track and all looking like they had chances as the field hit the rising ground. The leader was proving very game and very hard to pass as they repelled the challenges.
Passing the 1f marker and Cotai West had just about pulled alongside the leader. Her known rival Vaunted was also making late headway and it would be a thrilling finish. They went at it hammer and tongs, with a late flourish looking to join in. Cotai West hit the front with 100 yards to go but couldn’t quite pull clear. She was viewable to one last surge but the filly had enough left in the tank, holding on to a neck advantage.
After the misfortune last time out it was nice to gain a bit of redemption here. Cotai West has done nothing wrong since her debut and looks to have a bit more to give. It did look as though she was only going enough in front, so could have been keeping a little to herself. Cotai West can travel well and pick up so she may be better suited to a higher grade or bigger field and she certainly looks likely to be winning again soon.
Queen Kindly’s career highlight came at York when she took the Lowther stakes. It may not be on the same level but her daughter, Alia Choice put in a career best at the same venue. Having had a few differing trips and tracks, it looked as though the Knavesmire provided the perfect solution as Alia Choice bolted up in the 5 1/2f Sky Bet Go-Racing-In-Yorkshire Summer Festival Handicap.
Although bred to be sharp, Alia Choice didn’t make the track until late last year. She certainly made up for lost time when she improved on a debut fourth to then win at the second attempt at Chelmsford. Returning to the same venue for her third start, Alia Choice managed to finish runner up and secure an opening mark of 80.
Since stepping into handicap company, it has been quite tricky to figure out just what trip Alia Choice wants. Trying 6f and 5f, she had put some good efforts up but not really progressing like she had threatened to do. Staying on late over 5f but then looking like she didn’t get home over 6f, the next run would be key to the filly. There could not have been a better race coming up than the 5 1/2f trip at York. It looked tailor-made for Alia Choice as she lined up against 14 others.
Kevin Stott had only missed the ride on Alia Choice once, unfortunately when she won. As she left the stalls the early pace, which was expected, was frantic leaving her settled in mid division. Through the first furlong the leader had the field stretched out showing blistering pace. As they separated out the field chased the leader down the centre of the track and there was a good 8-9 lengths from first to last.
Blink and you miss it as they charged past halfway. Already there were some of the field coming under a drive. The leader was not for stopping and looked to kick off the front end. Kevin gave Alia Choice a little squeeze to get closer and she edged around rivals to inch closer. Having latched onto the tails of the leaders, Kevin just had to manoeuvre to get a clear run. Passing the 2f pole Alia Choice came back onto the bridle and moved out from behind the leaders to challenge.
Alia Choice was absolutely cantering as her rivals struggled to match her move. Kevin held his filly together until 1 1/2f out and when he loosened his grip she took off. Easily opening up a length lead, Alia Choice now went for home with just a furlong to run. Initially there was one rival to come and give chase and whilst it looked like a big danger, it was immediately quashed. Changing her legs, Alia Choice went again and scooted clear. The final 1/2f was a victory lap as she put more and more distance between herself and the rest. Alia Choice bolted up by 3 3/4 lengths and could easily have been more.
Before the race it did feel as though 5 1/2f could be perfect for Alia Choice and it certainly looked true here. Throughout the race there was very little worry as the 3yo filly cruised into contention and then quickened up when asked. The way she put distance between herself and rivals was a sign of a talented filly and it looks like she could now be really coming to herself. She always looked a nice filly and with every race she is hitting her potential. The handicapper will be looking to stop her now so it will be interesting to see what plans lie ahead. Hopefully this beautifully bred filly could pick up some black type in time.
The horses are in fine form of late and it was the older brigade who provided the team with another double. Consistency may not be their strength but on their day they are talented. Rathbone took the feature at Hamilton whilst the tough Ventura Rascal followed suit just 17 minutes later at Pontefract.
When he is on a going day, Rathbone is very talented. It isn’t the easiest job trying to figure out when that might be but he has earned plenty of prize money throughout his career and always pops in with a couple of big wins. This time last year he had thrown away his chance in the race but this time around he made up for it by taking the 6f G4 Claims Not At Fault Claims Made Easy Scottish Stewards Cup.
Hamilton has not really been too kind to Rathbone in his previous attempts. Whether it was the track or his own ideas but the sprinter has never really performed as he can. Always slowly away when running at the track, he has looked unlucky at times and possibly a bit uninterested at others. Characters like Rathbone do frustrate but they are easy to love, especially when they have an engine. The only issue is trying to find the keys to start it.
The field was made up of 10 crack sprinters and Oisin McSweeney took the leg up, aiming to continue a purple patch of his own. When the stalls flew open it did have a feeling of deja vu as Rathbone found himself shuffled backwards to sit towards the rear. Oisin didn’t panic though and knowing the horse he just left him alone to find his own rhythm. With only the favourite behind him, Rathbone would need to pass the majority of the field if he were to win.
It was a strong gallop through the first half of the race and the leaders had stretched the 10 runners out. Rathbone had lost a little bit of ground to the field but Oisin still didn’t rush and just nudged his mount along along to get him rolling around 3f out. Last year the pair had been in the same position but made up a lot of ground very quickly and weakened late on. Learning from this, Oisin was patient and allowed the race to develop before him.
Switching to the far side of the group, Rathbone made up ground with relative ease. Whilst his rivals were under a drive moving into the last 2f, Rathbone came through strongly, picking off rivals one by one. Oisin was just nudging away as they came into contention and waited until the rising ground to kick for home. With 1 1/2f to run they laid down their challenge and Rathbone joined the leaders.
Having made up ground relatively easily, Rathbone had the final furlong to go and win the race. He would only do enough and up against some very willing rivals, the final furlong would prove a real battle. There would be a trio battling for the win as they managed to pull away from the rest. Rathbone just nicked the lead but he was to be rallied against. As he stuck his neck in front his nearest rivals would find again to give it one last shot. Oisin was asking for everything and getting it from a very brave Rathbone. Just as his rivals came to him with 50 yards to run, Rathbone dug deep and found a little extra. The trio flashed past the line and although it was close, it did look as though Rathbone had held on. The result would prove that as he took the feature by a head, with the second place being a dead heat.
There is always a “good un” in Rathbone every season and it was fantastic to see him take the Scottish Stewards cup. He is a very talented sprinter when he wants to be but this season he has been the most consistent of his career. This win will see a rise in the weights but it may not be high enough for the Stewards Cup at Goodwood, which would be the next option. If it isn’t then he may still go for the consolation race and some of the top handicaps following that. He is certainly good enough to take one of these heritage handicaps and hopefully Rathbone will have an opportunity to do just that.
The team didn’t have to wait long to complete the double, merely 17 minutes later Ventura Rascal gained his first win of the season. There aren’t many who could match the 5yo’s attitude and this was on full show when he took the 1m Caygill Family Optional Claiming Handicap at Pontefract.
Generally he has always been a very consistent horse and last year saw Ventura Rascal notch 3 wins in a fruitful season. The start of this season didn’t begin as expected and after a couple of below par efforts, Ventura Rascal had a small wind op. It did look to have benefitted the gelding with two solid efforts following. When he received a terrible draw at Chester last time out, a line was put through that as Ventura Rascal looked likely to be winning again soon.
The optional claimer saw 9 runners lining up with a variety of handicap marks owing to the race conditions. Sam James has enjoyed a successful season so far and took the spare ride on offer. Tactically it was straight forward, be as positive as possible although the draw may dictate just where he could sit. Jumping smartly, Ventura Rascal was quickly into stride and his rivals didn’t look too interested in taking the lead. Sam happily tracked over to dictate the pace and held the lead.
It was a nice, even gallop throughout as Ventura Rascal was allowed to stride out. Moving past halfway the field began to climb as they bared down on the left handed bend. Sam started to turn to the screw at this point and increased the tempo out in front. Ventura Rascal edged further away from the field and entering the home bend he held a couple of lengths lead. Sam was continually winding it up as they swung around the bend and as the pair past the 2f they kicked for home.
Ventura Rascal had committed and caught many of the field flat footed. Although his nearest pursuer was trying hard, he also began to hang left under pressure, giving Ventura Rascal a little more breathing space. With a furlong to run he still held sway and he is a very tough horse to get past. Despite the rising ground and fast finishing favourite, Ventura Rascal was always finding for pressure. He had kept a little bit to himself and when the lead closed, the game 5yo stuck his head out once more to earn a 1/2 length win.
Ventura Rascal is cracking horse who always tries. He had shown that he was beginning to really come to form and he earned this win the hard way. Once he gets his head to the lead it will take a hell of a battle to take it away from him. Moving forward he will likely be in similar contests to last year and ultimately the race he won at Ayr during the Gold Cup meeting would be a nice one to aim for again.
