2021/22 Jumps Issue 8 - Punters catch winner variant!

Headlines

Epatante is a Kempton Christmas Cracker

Man is Brave again at Kempton

Sir Gerhard off the Mark at Leopardstown

Ferney puts Rivals in the Hollow

Shiskin lands Desert Orchid chase

Paddy Rewards Envoi Allen at Leopardstown

Eric chops Rivals to Bits in Ireland

River Swamps Rivals at Wetherby

Galvin takes Savill Chase

Galopin Des Champs Begins well at Leopardstown

Sharjah stars at Leopardstown, 

Journey could have Cheltenham as the Destination

Luna Rises at Newbury

Palais is a Grand winner of Mandarin Chase

Star takes Centre Stage at Newbury

Report

We start at Kempton on Boxing Day, where in the 3m grade 1 Kauto Star novice chase, Bravemansgame ( Peej, Steve), went to post, Chased leader, pecked on landing 14th, made challenge going easily before 2 out, led 2 out, shaken up and went clear approaching last, ridden out, winning by 7 ½ l. He gets 52.2 points.

In the 2m grade 1 Christmas hurdle Epatante ( Cliff, Steve), took her chance, Chased leader, not fluent 1st, pressed leader 3rd, led 3 out, going best before 2 out, shaken up and went clear approaching last, ridden run-in, winning comfortably by 2 ¼ l. She gets 51.8 points.

At Leopardstown in the 2m maiden hurdle, Sir Gerhard ( Cod), went to post, Made all, 1 length ahead 2 out, went clear going easily approaching last, cruising run-in, winning impressively by 8l. He gets 32.4 points. 

In the 2m 1f grade 1 Racing Post Novice Chase, Ferney Hollow  ( Peej), took his chance, Jumped right on occasions, took keen hold, made all, hard pressed after last (usual 2 out), ridden omitted last, kept on well, always doing enough, winning by 1 ½ l. He gets 78.4 points.

At Kempton in the 3m grade 1 King George V1 chase, Clan Des Obeaux ( Cod, Neil, Steve), took his chance, Held up in behind leaders, chased leader before 12th, made challenge on inner home turn, disputed lead 3 out, led before 2 out, not fluent and headed 2 out, weakened quickly and held approaching last, left in second last, no match for winner 2nd beaten 9l. He gets 13.6 points.

At Kempton on Monday in the 2m grade 2 chase, Shishkin ( Cliff, Martin, Neil, Steve, Peej), took his chance, Tracked leaders, headway and challenging 3 out, soon nudged along, led  and went clear, eased towards finish, winning  impressively by 10l. Cliff gets 42.9 points, Martin, Neil, Peej, Steve 21.45

At Leopardstown in the 2m 1f grade 1 chase, Envoi Allen ( Bob, Cliff, Martin, Peej, Steve), took his chance, Disputed lead on outer, led 2nd, joined 4th, slight lead before 6th, joined 4 out, not fluent and pecked on landing 2 out, soon ridden and faced sustained challenge, bumped when led narrowly home turn, went clear run-in, workmanlike, winning by 7 ½ l. He gets 26.2 points.

At Limerick in the 2m 7f grade 2 novice hurdle Eric Bloodaxe (Neil), went to post, Chased leaders, mistake and dropped to midfield 4 out, switched right and good headway on inner home turn, ridden to lead 2 out, clear approaching last, ridden out run-in, winning by 7 ½ l. He gets 44.6 points.

At Wetherby in the 2m 3f limited novice handicap chase, Midnight River (Martin), took his chance, Wandered at early obstacles, led, ridden after 4 out, faced challenge 3 out, headed last, rallied and led again final 110yds, just did enough, winning gamely by a neck. He gets 26 points.

On Tuesday at Leopardstown ion the 3m grade 1 Savill’s chase Galvin (Neil, Steve), went to post, Tracked leader, pressed leader when pushed along and bit short of room after 2 out, soon lost second when outpaced and switched right, jumped slightly left last, ridden and ran on towards near side run-in, led final strides, winning by a short head. Steve gets 89.8 points, Neil 57.4

In the 2m 5f beginners chase Galopin Des Champs, ( Cod, Peej), took his chance, Jumped well, prominent, led and made rest from 1st, went clear 6th, 5 lengths ahead halfway, soon went further clear, unchallenged, winning impressively by 22l. He gets 11.2 points. 

Yesterday at Leopardstown in the 2m 4f maiden hurdle Journey With Me ( Cod), went to post, Disputed lead, led before 2nd, shaken up under 2f out, ridden and kept on well final furlong, winning by 3 ½ l. He gets 28.4 points.

In the 2m Grade 1 Matheson Hurdle, Sharjah (Cod), took his chance, Held up in rear, headway and went fourth halfway, bit short of room and switched left 2 out (usual 3 out), niggled along after last (usual 2 out), raced wide home turn, smooth headway and made challenge run-in, ridden to lead towards finish, all out, winning by a neck. He gets 53 points.

At Newbury in the 2m handicap hurdle Gran Luna (Bob) went to post, Led, headed 2 out, soon ridden, 1 length down last, kept on well run-in, led final 110yds, ridden out winning by a head. He gets 28.68 points.

In the 3m 2f handicap chase, Saint Palais (Bob), went to post, Held up in rear, nudged along after 13th, headway 17th, close up 4 out, made strong challenge 2 out, led narrowly approaching last, ridden run-in, stayed on, winning by 1 ¼ l. He gets  25.5 points.

In the 2m 4f grade 1 Challow Hurdle Stage Star (Peej), took his chance, Held up in behind leaders, pushed along and switched right after 3 out, soon led, 4 lengths ahead last, winning  comfortably by 6 ½ l. He gets 54.5 points.

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy 

         December            Total

Peej      348.55             592.52

Steve           360.68    508.8

Cod            295  .2       408.25

Cliff          232.53        368.82 

Neil          196.93             295.13

Bob        199.37             282.58

Martin      170.29        221.69             

Grand Slam 

Leg 1 Neil  

Leg 2 Tony

Leg 3 Tony

Leg 4  Cliff

Leg 5 Neil

Leg 6 Peej

Leg 7 Tony

Leg 8 Steve

Leg 9 Steve

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell, Stratford, Thirsk, Worcester

In Ireland - Ballinrobe, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Bellewstown, Laytown, Downpatrick,  Listowel, Kilbeggan

News

Star novice chaser My Drogo, who had been a 7-1 shot for the Turners Novices' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March, has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Trainer Dan Skelton told The Punter on Monday morning: "Unfortunately My Drogo will miss the remainder of the season. We scanned him this morning after feeling heat in his near-fore tendon and whilst it is a very small lesion and will heal, it just requires time.

The eagerly anticipated clash between Shishkin and Energumene could yet happen before the Champion Chase in March after both horses appeared among the 11 entries for the SBK Clarence House Chase at Ascot next month.

Journey With Me surged to the head of the ante-post market for the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle after the highly touted youngster lived up to his billing in a top-class maiden hurdle at Leopardstown.

Paul Nicholls remains hopeful McFabulous can make his long-awaited return to action a triumphant one by successfully defending his Dornan Engineering Relkeel Hurdle crown at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day.The 12-times champion trainer believes the Grade Two contest is an “obvious” starting point for the son of Milan, who has not been sighted since April after meeting with a setback earlier in the campaign.

Weekend Entries

Cheltenham Saturday

2.00 Coole Cody

3.10 Mcfabulous

Exeter

12.40 Easy As That

3.35 Gran Luna

Fairyhouse 

12.20 Journey With Me

2.40 Put The Kettle On

Tramore 

2.20 Annamix

2021/22 Jumps Issue 7 - The Christmas Edition

Headlines

Jon in bonnie form at Ascot

Tri is the tonic at Ascot

Champ lives up to his name at Ascot

Dan Tips his Cap to Rivals at Naas

Report

We start at Naas last Thursday where in the 2m 3f Beginners chase, Capodano (Cod), went to post, Took keen hold, chased leaders, pecked on landing 1st, headway when switched left going easily before 2 out, close up when bad mistake and lost ground 2 out, soon pushed along, ridden and ran on well from last, led towards finish winning by 1 ¼ l. He gets 30 points.

At Ascot on Friday in the 2m grade 2 novice hurdle Jonbon (Bob, Steve), took his chance, Tracked leader, led 2nd, shaken up after 2 out, 3 lengths ahead last, ran on well run-in, eased towards finish, winning impressively by 2 ¾ l. He gets 22 points.

At Ascot on Saturday in the 3m grade 1 Long Walk Hurdle, Champ ( Cod, Martin),Thyme Hill (Martin)  went to post,  Champ, Held up in behind leaders, went second 8th, led going easily home turn, shaken up 2 out, soon ridden and hard pressed, 1 length ahead last, kept on well, winning by 1 ¾ l. He gets 55 points.

Thyme Hill, Took keen hold, held up in behind leaders, went third 3 out, ridden home turn, chased winner 2 out, 1 length down last, kept on but held towards finish, 2nd beaten 1 ¾ l. He gets 27.8 points.

In the 2m grade 3 handicap hurdle, Tritonic, (Steve), went to post, Towards rear of midfield, headway 4 out, tracked leaders home turn, challenging 2 out, shaken up and led last, ridden and kept on run-in winning by 2 ¾ l. He gets 48 points.

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy 

         December            Total

Peej      104.6              348.57

Cod            157.8       270.85    

Steve           106.23       254.35

Cliff          112.23         248.52 

Bob        118.99             202.2

Neil          59.88             158.08

Martin      96.64         148.04             

Apologies to Neil his single rights points have been added

Grand Slam 

Leg 1 Neil  

Leg 2 Tony

Leg 3 Tony

Leg 4  Cliff

Leg 5 Neil

Leg 6 Peej

Leg 7 Tony

Leg 8 Steve

Leg 9 Steve

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell, Stratford, Thirsk, Worcester

In Ireland - Ballinrobe, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Bellewstown, Laytown, Downpatrick,  Listowel, Kilbeggan

News

Asterion Forlonge is set to lead a two-pronged attack by Willie Mullins on the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton Park on Boxing Day. The Closutton handler feels the seven-year-old will be suited by the right-handed track and is hoping Bryan Cooper will take the ride.

Nicky Henderson was able to give a cautiously upbeat bulletin on Buzz on Saturday, a day on from the Cesarewitch winner suffering a serious injury in his final spin before the Long Walk Hurdle.

The Punter sadly reports the death of Silver Streak, a sound member of Neil’s string for a few seasons, 

The eight-year-old, who finally enjoyed his crowning glory when winning last year’s Christmas Hurdle at Kempton after a string of good efforts at the highest level, was being prepared to defend his title on Boxing Day. He finished third in the 2019 Champion Hurdle to Espoir D’Allen and also won the Welsh Champion Hurdle in 2018, as well as finishing placed in numerous other big races. Silver Streak ran 29 times over hurdles, winning eight and finishing second eight times also, earning almost £500,000 for his owner, Les Fell.

Ferny Hollow remains on course for the Grade 1 Racing Post Novice Chase (2.20) at Leopardstown on December 26, with Willie Mullins leaving the 2020 Champion Bumper winner in the race at the latest forfeit stage on Monday. His main market rival Riviere D'Etel, unbeaten in three starts over fences, has also been left in by Gordon Elliott.

Weekend winner Tritonic could be set for a quick turnaround after he was surprisingly named among the six entrants for the Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle (2.30) at Kempton on Boxing Day.The 2019 winner Epatante is a potential rival for the Alan King-trained Tritonic, who landed the Betfair Exchange Trophy at Ascot on Saturday, in the second of three Grade 1 races on the card. Soaring Glory also holds an entry.

Sharjah is all set to bid to equal Istabraq and Hurricane Fly’s record of four wins in the Matheson Hurdle at Leopardstown on December 29. Honeysuckle is also entered

Weekend Entries

Boxing Day 

Kempton

12.45 Knappers Hill

1.20 Patroclus

1.55 Bravemansgame, Threeunderthrufive, Tea Clipper

2.30 Epatante, Tritonic, Soaring Glory

3.05 Asterion Forlange, Clan Des Obeaux, Minella Indo , Frodon, Chantry House, Mister Fisher

Wetherby 

2.10 Mighty Thunder

Leopardstown 

12.35 Kilcruit

2.20 Ferney Hollow, Riviere D’Etel

Limerick

1.33 Eric Bloodaxe, Uhtred

2.40 Ferney Hollow,  Cape Gentleman

Monday 

Leopardstown

1.10 Energumene, Envoi Allen, 

1.45 Kilcruit

2.05 Eric Bloodaxe

Chepstow 

2.50 Kimberlite Candy, Mighty Thunder, Threeunderthrufive, 

Wetherby

1.00 Midnight River, Patroclus, 

Limerick

2.05  Eric Bloodaxe

Kempton

2.30 Greaneteen, Shishkin, Sky Pirate

3.40 Hacker Des Places

2021/22 Jumps Issue 6 - Coole for Cod

Headlines

Cody keeps His Coole round Cheltenham

Three is on Top

My Drogo gets round this time

Polished Silver wins at Newbury

Report

We start at Cheltenham on Saturday where in the 2m 4f novice chase My Drogo ( Bob, Cliff, Steve), took his chance, Took keen hold, chased clear leader, close up 7th, led 9th, mistake 10th, wandered on approach 4 out, pushed along and went clear from 2 out, wining easily by 7l. He gets 11.23 points.

In the 2m 4f Grade 3 handicap chase Coole Cody (Cod), went to post, Jumped well but jumped right on occasions, close up, led and made rest after 2nd, not fluent 6th, shaken up before 2 out, ridden after 2 out, hard pressed when jumped right and not fluent last, drifted right run-in, kept on well, winning gamely by 2l. He gets 72.8 points

At Doncaster in the 3m grade 2 novice chase Threeunderthrufive (Bob), went to post, Pressed leader, hit 3rd, mistake 8th (water), led 4 out, pushed along and went clear after 3 out, ridden briefly run-in, winning  comfortably by 7 ½ l. He gets 43.16 points.

On Wednesday at Newbury in the 2m 7f listed mares chase Silver Forever (Martin, Neil), went to post, Tracked leader, awkward jump 1st, lost second 13th, tracked leader 4 out, challenging when not fluent 3 out, led going easily after 2 out, 3 lengths ahead last, ran on well until eased towards finish, winning by 1 ¼ l. She gets 13.84 points.

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy 

         December            Total

Peej      104.6              348.57

Cliff          112.23         248.52 

Steve           36.23       186.35

Cod            72.8       185.85    

Bob        96.99             180.2

Neil          46.04             144.24

Martin      13.84          65.24              

Grand Slam 

Leg 1 Neil  

Leg 2 Tony

Leg 3 Tony

Leg 4  Cliff

Leg 5 Neil

Leg 6 Peej

Leg 7 Tony

Leg 8 Steve

Leg 9 Steve

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell, Stratford, Thirsk, Worcester

In Ireland - Ballinrobe, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Bellewstown, Laytown, Downpatrick,  Listowel, Kilbeggan

News

Jonbon will face the toughest test of his career to date so far on his second hurdles start when he clashes against fellow top-class novices I Like To Move It and Knappers Hill in the Howden Kennel Gate Novices' Hurdle (2.20) at Ascot on Friday. 

 

Henry De Bromhead has confirmed Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Minella Indo to be bang on course for the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. 

Asterion Forlonge is another leading Irish chaser being aimed at the Kempton race this year.

 

Henry De Bromhead has resisted the temptation to send Grade One-winning Hurdler Bob Olinger to Ascot for the Howden Noel Novices’ Chase on Friday. Henry told The Punter, He said: “He is not travelling to Ascot. We are not sure where he goes yet. We haven’t sorted out any plans. He is entered in both races (Leopardstown and Limerick) over Christmas, so we will see nearer the time. We just haven’t made any firm decision, but he is well. All is fine with him.”

Stablemates Buzz and Champ head 11 confirmations for the Howden Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday.

2021/22 Jumps Issue 5 - Peej Piles on the Pressure

Headlines

Greaneteen Sends a Tingle round Sandown

Allaho

No Clouds over Protektorat

Riviere D’Etel Shines at Navan

Energumene  lands Hilly Way Chase

Ferney Hollow

Report

We start at Aintree, where in the 3m 1f grade 2 chase, Protektorat (Peej, Steve), took his chance, Settled Midfield, chased leaders 8th, disputed lead 15th, led 4 out, went well clear from 3 out, nudged along run-in, winning impressively by 25l. He gets 25 points.

At Navan in the 2m 1f grade 3 novice chase Riviere D’Etel ( Neil), took her chance, Jumped right on occasions, made all, went clear approaching last, winning comfortably by 12l. She gets 32.2 points.

At Sandown in the 2m Grade 1 Tingle Creek Chase Greateteen ( Cliff), went to post, Towards rear, pecked on landing 3rd, not fluent 8th, close up 3 out, led just after 2 out, ridden clear approaching last, good jump last, hung left but ridden out and kept on strongly run-in, won going away by 5 ½ l. He gets 101 points. 

On Sunday at Cork in the 2m grade 2 chase Energumene ( Bob), went to post, Disputed lead, led narrowly before 2nd, 5 lengths ahead 3rd, headed after 6th, pressed leader until led going best before 3 out, clear from 2 out, kept on well run-in, winning easily by 8 ½ l. He gets 42.6 points.

At Punchestown in the 2m 4f grade 1 John Durkan memorial chase Allaho ( Peej), took his chance, Jumped left on occasions, led, not fluent 1st, pushed along after 4 out, joined until left clear 3 out, ridden and reduced lead and faced challenge when mistake 2 out, steadied last, stayed on, all out, winning by 2l. He gets 56.6 points.

In the 2m 1f Beginners chase, Ferney Hollow ( Peej), took his chance, Disputed lead early, led 1st, not fluent 2nd, jumped slightly left 4th, mistake 5th, faced challenge after 4 out, joined before 2 out, headed when pushed along from 2 out, soon ridden, led again from last, kept on well and went clear run-in , winning by 4l. He gets 23 points.

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy 

         December            Total

Peej      104.6              348.57

Cliff          101         237.29 

Steve           25         175.12

Neil          32.2             130.4

Bob        42.6               125.81

 Cod            00       113.05    

Martin      00           51.4              

Congratulations to Peej, who was November Trainer of the Month

Grand Slam 

Leg 1 Neil  

Leg 2 Tony

Leg 3 Tony

Leg 4  Cliff

Leg 5 Neil

Leg 6 Peej

Leg 7 Tony

Leg 8 Steve

Leg 9 Steve

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell, Stratford, Thirsk, Worcester

In Ireland - Ballinrobe, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Bellewstown, Laytown, Downpatrick,  Listowel, Kilbeggan

News

Nube Negra will not run again before the Queen Mother Champion Chase after failing to meet expectations at Sandown on Saturday. While Skelton is keen not to make any excuses for Nube Negra, he feels he will benefit from having a longer break ahead of his bid to bounce back at the Festival in March. He said: “He’s grand – nothing ventured, nothing gained. “Obviously he can be better than the result and we’ll just keep him fresh now until Cheltenham. “Clearly, he has to be fresh, so we’ll go straight for the Champion Chase.”

Coole Cody, a likely leading player in Saturday's Racing Post Gold Cup at Cheltenham, had his "unconventional" style of jumping backed fully on Tuesday when trainer Evan Williams defied anyone to find a tougher horse than his ten-year-old. "I'm never one of those to predict things and at the end of the day if you don't jump, you don't win – good luck to the winner is what I say," Williams said.

"I'm pretty keen to run this weekend and can't see any reason why we wouldn't. He'll have a school in the morning and that'll tell us where we are. He has his own technique of jumping and it's unconventional. There's no doubting that and he gets away with things, but didn't that day. "He normally works it out. He didn't work it out last time, but I'm sure he knows more about jumping than you or me. Not a lot bothers Coole Cody though. He's a tough, genuine horse – they don't come much tougher."

Weekend Entries

Doncaster Friday

2.15 Gran Luna

Cheltenham 

3.35 Sporting John

Saturday 

Doncaster

2.05 Threeunderthrufive

Cheltenham 

12.40 Bob Olinger, My Drogo

1.50 Coole Cody, 

3.00 Sceau Royal

Sunday,  Carlisle,

12.00  Roxyana

Southwell 

2.25 Gran Luna

2021/22 Jumps Issue 4 - Six more winners

Headlines

Aye Right old winner for Cod at Newcastle

Stage is Newbury Star

Jonbon kicks rivals aside

Elle Est Belle wins at Newbury

Epatante draws in Fighting Fifth

Honeysuckle is Sweet In Ireland

Report

We start at Newbury on Friday where in the 2m 4f novice hurdle, Stage Star ( Peej), took his chance, Made all, hit 2 out, soon shaken up, 3 lengths ahead last, pushed out and went further clear run-in, winning easily by 7 ½ l. He gets 22.58 points.

In the 2m novice hurdle, Jonbon (Bob, Steve), went to post, Midfield, headway and led after 3rd, going easily when 1 length ahead 2 out, soon shaken up and went further clear, good jump last, winning impressively by 6l. He  gets 11.91 points.

On Saturday in the 2m listed mares novice hurdle Elle Est Belle ( Martin), took her chance, Tracked leaders, led last, soon ridden, ran on well, winning comfortably by 8 ½ l. She gets 30 points.

At Newcastle in the 2m 7f listed handicap chase Aye Right (Cod), went to post, Tracked leader, led 4th, headed but every chance 8th, led again 14th, clear with one other after 3 out, pushed along after 2 out, 2 lengths ahead and ridden last, hard pressed inside final 110yds, just held on, winning gamely by a head. He gets 36 points.

In the 2m grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle Epatante (Cliff, Steve), took her chance, Took keen hold, in touch with leaders, headway going best 3 out, switched right before 2 out, pushed along and led last, ridden and hard pressed inside final 110yds, joined post , dead heat. She gets 50.09 points.

At Fairyhouse on Sunday in the 2m 4f grade 1 Hatton’s Grace hurdle Honeysuckle ( Cliff, Neil, Peej, Steve), went to post, Travelled strongly, chased leaders, not fluent 2nd, 11 lengths third when not fluent 4th, close up 4 out, disputed lead before 3 out, led going easily home turn, nudged along and went clear before 2 out, ridden briefly after 2 out, pushed out, winning  easily by 8l. She gets 51.20 points.

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy 

              November      Total

Peej      243.97           243.97      

Steve           150.12           150.12

 Cliff          136.29            136.29 

Cod            113.05       113.05    

Neil          98.2               98.2

Bob        83.21                83.21

Martin      51.4           51.4              

Grand Slam 

Leg 1 Neil  

Leg 2 Tony

Leg 3 Tony

Leg 4  Cliff

Leg 5 Neil

Leg 6 Peej

Leg 7 Tony

Leg 8 Steve

Leg 9 Steve

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell, Stratford, Thirsk, Worcester

In Ireland - Ballinrobe, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Bellewstown, Laytown, Downpatrick,  Listowel, Kilbeggan

News

Philip Hobbs says Defi Du Seuil will bid for a second victory in the Betfair Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown after not finding anything wrong with the seven-time Grade 1 winner following his disappointing comeback in the 1965 Chase last month. The JP McManus-owned eight-year-old was fourth of five at Ascot, beaten 35 lengths by Lostintranslation over two miles and five furlongs, but is now set to drop back to two miles for Saturday's Grade 1, a race he won by a neck from Un De Sceaux in 2019.

Henry de Bromhead has confirmed Envoi Allen on course to run in a top-quality Grade 1 John Durkan Chase at Punchestown on Sunday, when the trainer's Grand National hero Minella Times is also set to return. De Bromhead said: “Envoi Allen seems in great form, he’s really good. He’s fit and well. He’d been working really well before he won at Down Royal and we were delighted with him on the day. Everything has been good since then too.

Stage Star could take aim at the Grade One Challow Novices’ Hurdle after making a flawless start to his hurdling career this season. 

Dan Skelton admits Nube Negra faces a “big task” if he is to secure a first Grade One victory in the Betfair Tingle Creek at Sandown Park on Saturday. However, the trainer believes his rising star has improved again since his comeback success at in Grade Two company at Cheltenham earlier this month.

Fakir D'Oudairies could add further spice to a very tasty John Durkan Chase as Joseph O'Brien has said there is a "fair chance" he will show up at Punchestown on Sunday and potentially take on Allaho and Envoi Allen in what promises to be the race of the season so far. Envoi Allen has already been given the green light by Henry de Bromhead to contest the Grade 1 over 2m4½f, while Patrick Mullins said earlier this week that Allaho is more likely to run at Punchestown than in the Tingle Creek at Sandown on Saturday.

The green and gold hoops of JP McManus will be missing from two of Saturday's feature races, with Defi Du Seuil and Champ set to skip their respective engagements. The 2019 Tingle Creek winner Defi Du Seuil had been scheduled to aim for a repeat success in the Betfair-backed Grade 1 at Sandown but on Wednesday trainer Philip Hobbs announced he would be given a little longer to recover from his seasonal debut at Ascot, his first start since undergoing wind surgery. Hobbs told the Racing Post: "Defi Du Seuil won't be going to Sandown on Saturday now, for two reasons. Firstly we just feel it might be coming a bit quick after Ascot."

Nicky Henderson has also decided against running Champ in the Unibet Many Clouds Chase at Aintree on the same day, with a return to action over hurdles not ruled out. Champ has not been seen since being pulled up in the Gold Cup, after which he underwent surgery for kissing spines. Henderson told the Punter: "He's difficult to place. We thought about the Many Clouds but we're going to leave that alone for now and just see how things go. He's one that's just got a bit to find yet and he probably wants some easier ground as well."

Weekend Entries

Sandown Friday 

3.35 Fable

Saturday 

Aintree

2.05 Protektorat, 

2.40 Kimberlite Candy

3.15 Midnight River

Sandown 

12.40 Fable

1.50 Third Time Lucki

2.25 Allaho, Greaneteen, Nube Negra

3.35 Metier

Navan

12.00 Journey With Me

12.33 Eric Bloodaxe

1.43 Appreciate It, Ferney Hollow, Riviere D’etel

2.18 Capodanno

Huntingdon Sunday

1.52 Allmankind, Coole Cody

Cork

12.40 Kilcruit, Sir Gerhard

1.45 Riviere D’Etel

2.20 Energumene

Punchestown

2.00 Allaho,  Asterion Forlange, Envoi Allen, Fakir D’oudairies

2.35 Appreciate It, Ferney Hollow

 

2021/22 Jumps Issue 3 - Peej puts miserable flat season behind him

Headlines

Brave puts up a Manly Performance at Haydock

Buzz flies round Ascot

Bob Olinger stars at Gowran Park

Wild is The Call at Kempton

Report

We Start at Ascot on Saturday , where in the 2m grade 2 Ascot Hurdle Buzz (Peej)  went to post. Chased leaders, smooth headway before 2 out, cruising and disputed lead approaching last, ridden to lead run-in, went clear final 110yds, winning comfortably by 3 ¼ l. He gets 44 points.

At Haydock in the 2m 5f graduation chase, Bravemansgame ( Peej, Steve), took his chance, Jumped well, made all, 3 lengths ahead 2 out, went further clear last, going easily run-in, winning comfortably by 2 ¾ l. He gets 11.62 points.

At Gowran Park in the 2m 4f Beginners Chase, Bob Olinger (Bob, Peej, Steve) went to post, Travelled strongly, tracked leader, 1 length second before 7th, joined leader after 4 out, led going easily on outer before 3 out, pecked on landing 3 out, went clear 2 out, jumped slightly left last, pushed along briefly run-in,  winning easily by 6 ½ l. Bob gets 22.4 points, Peej, Steve 11.2 

At Kempton on Monday in the 2m novice hurdle, Call of The Wild (Peej), took his chance, Jumped left on occasions, led at steady pace, not fluent 4 out, pushed along before 2 out, soon ridden and hard pressed, headed approaching last, rallied and led again run-in, hung left but kept on well towards finish, winning by 2 ¼ l. He gets 22.68 points.

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy 

              November      Total

Peej      170.19           170.19      

Cod            77.05        77.05    

Bob        71.3                71.3

Neil          47                47  

 Steve           36.92           36.92

 Cliff          35             35   

Martin      21.4           21.4              

Apologies for the points mix up between Peej and Martin last week, now corrected.

Grand Slam 

Leg 1 Neil  

Leg 2 Tony

Leg 3 Tony

Leg 4  Cliff

Leg 5 Neil

Leg 6 Peej

Leg 7 Tony

Leg 8 Steve

Leg 9 Steve

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell, Stratford, Thirsk, Worcester

In Ireland - Ballinrobe, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Bellewstown, Laytown, Downpatrick,  Listowel, Kilbeggan

News

Champion Chase heroine Put The Kettle On is not certain to attempt a follow-up in the two-mile highlight next March with trainer Henry de Bromhead eyeing a step up in trip. Having stayed on into a never-threatening third on her recent return in the Shloer Chase, beaten ten and a half lengths by Nube Negra, the tenacious mare is being aimed at the Grade 3 John & Chich Fowler Memorial Mares Chase over 2m5f at Fairyhouse on January 1.

Shishkin has been ruled out of next week’s Betfair Tingle Creek by trainer Nicky Henderson.

The unbeaten chaser was due to make his seasonal reappearance in the Sandown Grade One, but Henderson does not feel he is quite yet at concert pitch. As a result he will now head for the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton over Christmas instead.

“I’ve just spoken to (owner) Joe Donnelley and we’ve sadly and reluctantly decided that Shishkin is not going to run in the Tingle Creek,” said Henderson. “There’s nothing wrong with him, but I just haven’t got there. He worked this morning and he just isn’t sparky at the moment. I think I just got behind the ball a little bit."

Nicky Henderson is looking forward to taking the wraps off Epatante in the Betfair Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle on Saturday. The Seven Barrows trainer felt the 2020 Champion Hurdle winner was below her best after lifting this prize 12 months ago. However, the seven-year-old has been giving him the right signs since having back surgery during the summer. 

“We’re all set to go. We’ve been very happy. Her work’s been good, she had a nice away day at Newbury last week. She enjoyed it and worked very well,” Henderson told Sky Sports Racing. “I think she’s in good form but I’ve got to say she was impressive beating Sceau Royal last year and he was impressive at Wincanton the other day, so I don’t think it’s going to be as straight forward this time."

Weekend Entries

Newbury Friday

12.10 Stage Star

1.15 Jonbon

1.50 Tea Clipper

3.35 Fable

Saturday 

Newcastle

2.05 Aye Right

3.15 Epatante, Sceau Royal

Newbury

12.10 Elle Est Belle, Nina The Terrier

12.40 Tea Clipper

2.25 Soaring Glory, Metier, 

3.00 Eklat De Rire, Annamix, Mister Malarky

Sunday 

Fairyhouse

1.05 Eric Bloodaxe, Uhtred

1.35 Cape Gentleman, Riviere D’etel

2.40 Honeysuckle

2021/22 Jumps Issue 2 - Off to a flying start

Headlines

Lucki Lands Cheltenham Points

Sporting John lands Handicap Hurdle

Riviere D’etele scores at Punchestown

Threeunderthrufive lands novice chase

Nube Negra lands Shloer Chase

I like it Moves Quicker than Rivals

Sharjah Takes Morgiana hurdle

Report

We Start at Cheltenham on Saturday where in the 2m grade 2 novice chase Third Time Lucki ( Bob, Martin), went to post, Took keen hold, tracked leader, led just after 8th, good jump 4 out, soon went clear, jumped slightly right 3 out, pushed along and reduced lead after 2 out, ridden briefly run-in, winning comfortably by 4 ½ l. He gets 21.4 points.

In the 2m 4f grade 3 handicap chase, Protektorat ( Peej, Steve), took his chance, Jumped right on occasions, held up in midfield, mistake 5th, pushed along after 3 out, ridden and outpaced before 2 out, headway but hung left from 2 out, went second run-in, kept on well but just held, finishing 2nd beaten ¾ l . He gets 14.1 points.

In the 3m listed handicap hurdle Sporting John ( Cliff), went to post, Held up in midfield, headway 7th, tracked leaders 3 out, ridden home turn, disputed lead approaching last, soon led, kept on well towards finish, winning by 2 ½ l. He gets 31 points.

 

At Punchestown in the 2m 1f grade 2 novice chase Riviere D’etel   (Neil), went to post, Jumped well, disputed lead, led from 1st, increased tempo and went clear after 3 out, went further clear going easily approaching last, kept on well run-in, winning impressively by 21 l. He gets 47 points.

On Sunday in the 3 novice chase Threeunderthrufive (Bob), took his chance, Pressed leader, left in lead and made rest from 3rd, not fluent 5 out, pushed along before 2 out, ridden and kept on well run-in, winning by 4 ¼ l. He gets 27.5 points.

In the 2m grade 2 chase, Nube Negra (Cod, Peej), went to post, Held up in rear, chased leaders going easily before 3 out, led after 2 out, pushed along and not fluent last, ridden and went clear run-in, winning comfortably by 6l. He gets 23.25 points.

In the 2m grade 2 novice hurdle, I Like To Move It  (Peej) Made all, clear 1st, not fluent 3rd, pushed along and increased tempo after 2 out, good jump last, ridden and kept on well run-in, always doing enough, winning by 2l. He gets 43.34 points.

 

At Punchestown in the 2m grade 1 Morgiana hurdle Sharjah (Cod), took his chance, Tracked leader, pressed leader 3 out, led going easily last, edged right then ridden clear run-in, kept on well, winning by 3l. He gets 53. 8 points. 

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy 

              November      Total

Cod            77.05        77.05    

Martin      64.74           64.74              

Bob        48.9                48.9

Neil          47                47  

Peej      37.35             37.35            

Cliff          35             35    

Steve           14.1           14.1   

Grand Slam 

Leg 1 Neil  

Leg 2 Tony

Leg 3 Tony

Leg 4  Cliff

Leg 5 Neil

Leg 6 Peej

Leg 7 Tony

Leg 8 Steve

Leg 9 Steve

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell, Stratford, Thirsk, Worcester

In Ireland - Ballinrobe, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo, Bellewstown, Laytown, Downpatrick,  Listowel, Kilbeggan

News

Martin has replaced Cadzand with Midnight River

The Betfair Hurdle will be a major target for I Like To Move It with Nigel Twiston-Davies keen to test his credentials in the competitive Newbury handicap hurdle following his impressive success at Cheltenham's November meeting on Sunday.

Threeunderthrufive ignited a Grand National dream for the McNeill family after his staying power proved the difference in a dominant win in the 3m½f novice chase. The six-year-old could move out of novice company next, however, with the Coral Welsh Grand National one possibility.

"That was a nice jumping and staying performance," said trainer Paul Nicholls, whose last success in this race came with subsequent Grade 1 winner Black Corton. "I just said to Max [McNeill] he'd be superb for it [National Hunt Chase], and something like the Reynoldstown in the spring could suit."

Daryl Jacob and Nigel Twiston-Davies believe better ground will not hinder the chance of Bristol De Mai when he bids to equal the record of the mighty Kauto Star and win a fourth Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday.

My Drogo will bid to banish memories of his dramatic fencing bow when he returns to Cheltenham next month. Trainer Dan Skelton has set his sights on the Jockey Club Cheltenham and SW Syndicate Novices’ Chase on December 11, after My Drogo exited two out in what proved an extraordinary match race at Prestbury Park on Friday.

Nicky Henderson believes we may see Epatante return to her brilliant best this season with the trainer sounding very hopeful that back surgery over the summer has corrected the cause of last season's disappointment. The 2020 Champion Hurdle winner may once more be a force in the best two-mile races, if an operation to correct kissing spines has made a difference, and the signs were good as she pleased Henderson in the annual gallops morning organised to promote next week's Ladbrokes Winter Carnival.

Weekend Entries

Ascot Friday 

1.30 Go Dante, Jonbon

Haydock Saturday

12.10 Go Dante

1.50 Bravemansgame

3.00 Bristol De Mai

Ascot 

1.30 Fable

2.05 Defi Du Seuil

2.40 Buzz

3.15 Sky Pirate

Navan Sunday

12.50 Journey With Me

2021/22 Jumps - The points scorers

Could Shishkin make it back-to-back wins in this category?

176.96 - Allaho (56.6 + 42.2 + 78.16)

169.59 - Epatante (50.09 + 51.8 + 14.7 + 53)

160.8 - Coole Cody (72.8 + 88)

160.32 - Fakir D'Oudairies (81.5 + 78.82)

155.76 - Greaneteen (101 + 54.76)

154.03 - Honeysuckle (51.2 + 51.1 + 51.73)

148.6 - Energumene (42.6 + 24 + 82)

138.66 - Sir Gerhard (32.4 + 52.8 + 53.46)

121.58 - Shishkin (42.9 + 78.68)

113.46 - Threeunderthrufive (27.5 + 43.16 + 42.8)

109.6 - Bob Olinger (22.4 + 32.8 + 54.4)

106.8 - Sharjah (53.8 + 53)

101.4 - Ferny Hollow (23 + 78.4)

89.8 - Galvin

82.31 - Jonbon (11.91 + 22 + 21.4 + 27)

79.2 - Riviere D'etel (47 + 32.2)

75.55 - Bravemansgame (11.62 + 52.2 + 11.73)

73.5 - Elimay (27 + 46.5)

71.4 - Clan Des Obeaux (13.6 + 57.8)

68.0 - Hacker Des Places (26 + 42)

67.08 - Stage Star (22.58 + 54.5)

63.5 - Galopin Des Champs (11.2 + 26.2 + 26.1)

59.76 - Elle Est Belle (30 + 29.76)

58.0 - Sporting John (31 + 27)

57.0 - Edwardstone

55 - Champ

54.5 - Saint Palais (29 + 25.5)

52.28 - Gran Luna (28.68+ 23.6)

51.8 - Thyme Hill (27.8 + 24)

51.1 - Knappers Hill (22.9 + 28.2)

50.8 - Journey With Me (28.4 + 22.4)

50.0 - McFabulous

49.16 - Skytastic (24.76 +24.4)

48.0 - Paint The Dream

48.0 - Tritonic

47.94 - Call of the Wild (22.68 + 25.26)

45.2 - Mister Fisher

44.6 - Eric Bloodaxe

44.0 - Buzz

43.68 - Chantry House

43.34 - I Like To Move It

42.94 - Third Time Lucki (21.4 + 21.54)

40.0 - Langer Dan

39.1 - Protektorat (14.1 + 25)

36.0 - Aye Right

35.58 - Dusart (11.29 + 11.29 + 13)

30.0 - Capodano

28.6 - Minella Indo (13.9 + 14.7)

27.68 - Silver Forever

27.5 - Metier

27.5 - Patroclus

26.2 - Envoi Allen

26.0 - Midnight River

23.25 - Nube Negra

11.5 - Kilcruit

11.23 - My Drogo

2021/22 Jumps Issue 1 - News before the off

News

Cheltenham Festival hero Bob Olinger could make his eagerly anticipated debut over fences on Saturday after being entered for a 2m3½f beginners’ chase at Punchestown.

Weekend Entries

Friday

Cheltenham 

2.20 My Drogo

Saturday 

Punchestown

12.00 Bob Olinger

12.38 Cape Gentlman, Riviere D’etel

Cheltenham 

1.40 Third Time Lucki

2.15 Protektorat, Coole Cody

2.50 Sporting John

3.25 Dusart

Sunday

Punchestown

1.30 Elimay

2.05 Echoes In Rain, Sharjah, Zanahiyr

2.40 Journey With Me

Cheltenham

1.10 Threeunderthrufive

2.20 Nube Negra,  Put The Kettle On, Sky Pirate

2.55 Tritonic, 

3.30 I like to move it

2021/22 Jumps - The single picks

Martin (14), Brave Kingdom,  Elle Est Belle,  Fable ,  Get in the Queue,  Main Fact, Metier, Midnight River, Nina the Terrier , Paint the dream,  Sky Pirate,   Silver Forever ,  Star Gate,  Striking a Pose,  Thyme Hill                  

    

Steve (4),  Defi du Seuil,  Sceau Royal, Shan Blue,  Tritonic

Cod (13), Aye Right,  Capodano,  Coole Cody,  Go Dante, Journey With Me, Langer Dan,  Mister Malarkey, Mister Fisher, Sir Gerhard, Sharjah, Theo, Theocrat, The Ogle Gogle Man, 

Cliff (12), Castle Rushen, Easy As That,  Greaneteen,  Kimberlite Candy, Knappers Hill, Mcfabulous, Patroclus  , Petrossian, Put The Kettle On, Soaring Glory, Sporting John, Tea Clipper

Peej (10), Allaho,  Buzz, Call of the Wild, Cape Gentleman,  Fakir D'Oudairies, Ferny Hollow,  I Like To Move It, Mon Frere, Stage Star, Will Carver

Bob (10),  Copperless,   Energumene,  Gran Luna,  Mighty Thunder,  Queens Brook, Saint Palais, Skytastic,  Threeunderthrufive,  Uhtred,  Zanahiyr

 

Neil (12), Annamix, Asterion Forlonge, Bristol De Mai, Elimay, Eric Bloodaxe, Flying Demon, Gaillard Du Mesnil, Hacker Des Places, Ocean Of Mercy, Riviere D'etel, Roxanya,  The Carpenter

In addition,  the following are horses where the Punter named has retained single pick rights on a multiple-picked selection.

Bob - Bob Olinger

Cliff - Roksana, Shishkin

Neil - Silver Forever

Steve - Dusart, Galvin

2021/22 Jumps - The Alphabetical List

Those in Red have retained double points rights

Allaho                    Peej

Allmankind          Martin, Steve

Annamix                 Neil

Appreciate It            Bob, Cod, Neil

Asterion Forlange     Neil

Aye Right                   Cod

Bob Olinger              Bob, Peej, Steve

Brave Kingdom        Martin

Bravemansgame        Peej ,Steve

Bristol De Mai           Neil

Buzz                            Peej

Call of The Wild        Peej

Cape Gentleman           Peej

Capodano                  Cod

Castle Rushen           Cliff

Champ                     Cod,    Martin, 

Chantry House           Cliff , Peej, Steve

Clan Des Obeaux     Cod, Neil, Steve

Copperless                   Bob

Coole Cody              Cod

Defi Du Seuil           Steve

Dusart                       Bob, Steve

Easy As That           Cliff

Echoes In Rain         Bob,  Cliff

Eklat De Rire               Bob, Peej

Elimay                       Neil

Energumene               Bob

Epatante                   Cliff, Steve, 

Elle Est Belle                Martin

Envoi Allen              Bob, Cliff, Martin, Peej Steve, 

Eric Bloodaxe          Neil

Fable                        Martin

Fakir D’Oudaries      Peej, 

Ferney Hollow            Peej

Flying Demon               Neil

Frodon                       Cod, Neil,  Steve

Galliard Du Mensil         Neil

Galopin Des Champs    Cod, Peej

Galvin                         Neil,  Steve

Get In The Queue      Martin

Go Dante                   Cod

Greaneteen               Cliff

Gran Luna                Bob

Hacker Des Places    Neil

Honeysuckle            Cliff,  Neil, Peej, Steve

I like To Move It        Peej

Jonbon                      Bob,  Steve

Journey With Me      Cod

Kilcruit                        Bob, Neil

Kimberlite Candy    Cliff, 

Knappers Hill            Cliff

Langer Dan              Cod

Main Fact                Martin

McFabulous             Cliff

Metier                      Martin

Midnight River         Martin

Mighty Thunder           Bob

Minella Indo             Cod, Steve

Mister Fisher              Cod

Mister Malarkey           Cod

Mon Frere                     Peej

My Drogo                  Bob, Cliff, Steve

Nina The Terrier           Martin

Nube  Negra                   Cod, Peej

Ocean of Mercy          Neil

Paint The Dream       Martin

Patroclus,                  Cliff

Petrossian,                Cliff

Protektorat                Peej,  Steve

Put The Kettle On,    Cliff

Queens Brook             Bob

Riviere D’etel               Neil

Roksana                     Cliff , Martin  

Roxyana                        Neil

Saint Palais                    Bob

Sceau Royal                  Steve

Shan Blue                    Steve

Sharjah                         Cod

Shishkin                      Cliff, Martin, Neil,  Peej, Steve

Sky Pirate                  Martin

Skytastic                    Bob

Silver Forever               Martin Neil

Sir Gerhard                  Cod

Soaring Glory              Cliff

Sporting John              Cliff

Stage Star                     Peej

Star Gate                      Martin

Striking a Pose            Martin

Tea Clipper                 Cliff

The Carpenter              Neil

Theo                             Cod

Theocrat                      Cod

The Ogle Gogle Man     Cod

Thyme Hill                  Martin

Third Time Lucki      Bob,  Martin

Threeunderthrufive      Bob

Tritonic                        Steve

Uhtred                          Bob

Will Carver                    Peej

Zanahiyr                         Bob

2021/22 Jumps - The Strings

Martin, Allmankind , Brave Kingdom, Champ ,  Elle Est Belle, Envoi  Al-len ,   Fable ,  Get in the Queue,  Main Fact, Metier, Midnight River, Nina the Terrier ,Paint the dream,    Roksana , Shishkin  Sky Pirate,   Silver Forever ,  Star Gate,  Striking a Pose,  Third time Lucki ,  Thyme Hill                  

    

Steve, Allmankind, Bob Olinger,  Bravemansgame, Chantry House, Clan des Obeaux, Defi du Seoul, Dusart, Epatante, Envoi Allen,   Frodon, Galvin, Honeysuckle, Jonbon, Minella Indo My Drogo, Protektorat,  Sceau Royal, Shan Blue, Shiskin, Tritonic

Cod, Appreciate It, Aye Right,  Capodano, Clan Des Obeaux, Champ, Coole Cody, Frodon, Galopin Des Champs, Go Dante, Journey With Me, Langer Dan, Minella Indo, Mister Malar-key, Mister Fisher, Nube Negra, Sir Gerhard, Sharjah, Theo, Theocrat, The Ogle Gogle Man, 

Cliff, Castle Rushen, Chantry House, Easy As That , Echoes in Rain, Epatante, Envoi Allen, Greaneteen, Honeysuckle, Kimberlite Candy Knappers Hill, Mcfabulous, My Drogo, Patroclus  , Petrossian, Put The Kettle On, Roksana,  Shiskin, Soaring Glory, Sporting John, Tea Clipper

Peej Allaho, Bob Olinger, Bravemansgame, Buzz, Call of the Wild, Cape Gentleman, Chantry House, Eklat De Rire, Envoi Allen , Fakir D'Oudairies, Ferny Hollow, Galopin Des Champs, Honeysuckle, I Like To Move It, Mon Frere, Nube Negra, Protektorat, Shishkin, Stage Star, Will Carver

Bob,  Appreciate It,.  Bob Olinger,  Copperless,   Dusart,.  Echoes In Rain,  Energumene,  Eklat De Rire,  Envoi Allen, Gran Luna, Jonbon,  Kilcruit, Mighty Thunder, My Drogo, Queens Brook, Saint Palais, Skytastic, Third Time Lucki,  Threeunderthrufive,  Uhtred,  Zanahiyr

 

Neil, Annamix, Appreciate It, Asterion Forlonge, Bristol De Mai, Clan Des Obeaux, Elimay, Eric Bloodaxe, Frodon, Flying Demon, Gaillard Du Mesnil, Galvin, Hacker Des Places, Honeysuckle, Kilcruit, Ocean Of Mercy, Riviere D'etel, Roxanya, Shishkin, Silver Forever, The Carpenter

2021/22 Jumps Profile - One that didn't make it

Quilixios   

4 y bg Maxios – Quilita

Still lightly raced he should be making his mark in top level races this season, presumably still over hurdles at this stage.

He made his debut at Compiegne in March last year, winning a 3year old conditions hurdle by 12l from Yes Indeed. He then moved to Gordon Elliott, and won first time out at Punchestown in October last year, taking a 2m 3 year old hurdle by 13l from Scholastic, then followed up in a similar event at Down Royal at the end of October beating Varna Gold 20l. In February this year he took a 2m grade 1  4 year old hurdle by 5 ½ l from Saint Sam,  then changed trainers and moved to Harry De Bromhead. In March at Cheltenham he won the 2m 1f Triumph hurdle by 3 ¼ l from Adagio, and then disappointed at Punchestown in May in the 2m grade 1 four year old Champion hurdle finishing 7th beaten 30 ¼ l behind Jeff Kidder. 

Trainer H. De Bromhead

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Skytastic

5y bg Way of Light – Verzasca   (Bob)

Another of the dark horse brigade, he made his debut at Newbury last November, winning a 2m bumper by 1 ¼ l from Orbys Legend, then in February this year, won another bumper at Doncaster, beating Conceroe (received 3lb ) by 1 ¼ l.  He will go novice hurdling and looks a smart prospect.

Trainer S.Thomas

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Saint Palais

4 y bg Saint Des Saints – Ladies Choice  (Bob)

Very interesting pick from a new trainer to the competition, he made his debut at Compiegene last March, finishing 8th in a 2m 3 year old conditions hurdle, beaten 62 l behind Quilixios. In October last year he finished 2nd in a 2m 3f 3 year old chase at Maure De Bretagne, then in January this year joined Richard Bandey. He made his UK debut at Hereford in February this year , finishing 3rd in a 2m 3 year old maiden hurdle, beaten 7 ¾ l behind Herbiers, then in March at Newbury in a 2m 4 year old juvenile hurdle, was 2nd beaten 2l by Siroco Jo (gave 5lb). In April he was 2nd at Ffos Las in a 2m 4f 4 year old handicap hurdle, beaten ½ l by Winged Isle (gave 5lb), and then reappeared at Worcester recently, winning a 2m 7f novice handicap chase by 3 ¾ l from Velasco (gave 4lb. ) He looks capable of winning more novice chases, and could be a fun horse this season.

Trainer Richard rode as an amateur jockey for ten seasons, then deciding to hang up his boots and concentrate on the training of the racehorses. He was a successful point-to-point trainer for many years, with notable successes including a 4-timer at Larkhill racecourse and consecutive winners of the Redmills Intermediate Final at Cheltenham’s hunterchase evening in 2

Trainer R.Bandey

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Stage Star

5 y bg  Fame And Glory – Sparky May (Peej)

Useful bumper performer last season he is held in quite high regard at Ditcheat  and should do well in novice hurdles this season, he made his debut at Chepstow in October last year, winning a 2m bumper by 7l from Aviewtosea, then in December at Ascot in a 2m listed bumper, finished 1l 2nd to Stablemate Knappers Hill.  He finished the season at Aintree, finishing 3rd, beaten 1 ¾ l again by stablemate Knappers Hill. He reappeared at Chepstow recently winning a 2m 3f maiden hurdle by 6l from Deeper Blue, and should win more 2 ½ m novice hurdles.

Trainer P.Nicholls

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Roxanya

5 y ch m Leading  Light – Afaraka (Neil

Neil is a part owner of this mare who has shaped with considerable promise so far and should win a race or two this season. She made her debut in March last year at Down Royal in a mares bumper finishing 8th, beaten 83 l behind Delvino, then in November was 7th at Mussleburgh in another mares bumper, finishing 11 ¾ l behind Blue Hawaii. In December at Sedgefield she finished 2nd in an open bumper, 2 ¾ l behind Not What It Seems (gave 7lb). Given a break she came back at Mussleburgh in March this year finishing 3rd in another open bumper 16 ½ l behind Bella Bluesky, then made her hurdles debut at Limerick in April, where she looked the likely winner before falling 2 out. 

She finished the season with a third place at Limerick in a 2m 3f mares maiden hurdle, beaten 6 ½ l behind The Getaway Star. Neil tells me she is due to contest the Go North hurdle series, some trips up the M6 are on Neil’s agenda I suspect.

Trainer S.Crawford

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Riviere D’etel

4 y gr f Martaline – Angesse   (Neil)

Another of the feared grey brigade, she made her debut at Clairefontaine in July last year, finishing 5th in a 1m 4f fillies maiden, beaten 6 ¼ l behind rankles Magic, then in September at Auteuil, finished 2nd in a 2m 2f listed 3y fillies hurdle, beaten 1 ½ l by Obeone. She then moved to Gordon Elliott, and reappeared at Punchestown at the end of December last year, winning a 3m maiden hurdle by 12 l from Coventry (gave 7lb). At the ned of January she finished 3rd in a 2m 1f novice hurdle at Navan, beaten 3 ½ l behind Thedevilscoachman( gave 11lb), then moved to Denise Foster during Elliott’s suspension, and finished 7th at Cheltenham in the 2m Juvenile handicap hurdle, beaten 6 ¼ l behind Jeff Kidder. 

Moved back to Gordon Elliott, she reappeared at Fairyhouse this October winning a 2m mares beginners chase by 11l from Jeremys Flame (gave 9lb), and with her 4 year old allowance, could reach a high level as a novice chaser this season.

Trainer G.Elliott.

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Petrossian

5 y br g Sageburg – Inisfree Dawn      (Cliff)

The Editor keeps faith with this one after just one disappointing effort last season. He made his debut at Newbury last season on 5 November, winning a 2m bumper by an eye catching 7 ½ l from Highland Park. Niggling issues then kept him off the track until 27 march where he disappointed in another bumper at Newbury, finishing 6th beaten 17 behind Jonbon. Reported to have summered well, he will hopefully turn in to a high class novice hurdler this season.

Trainer P.Nicholls

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Patroclus

5 y bg Shirrocco – Kings’andQueen’s  (Cliff

A winner for the editor over hurdles last season, he goes novice chasing and will hopefully pick up plenty of points. 

Nicky Henderson told The Punter: “He’ll definitely go chasing, he’s purely a chaser. I’d be very disappointed if he doesn’t turn out to be ten times better than he was over hurdles. I think he’s a lovely horse. He’s only just came back in this week but he’s very big and very strong.”

Trainer N.Henderson

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Ocean of Mercy

5 y gr g Ask- Dalkey Pride (Neil)

One of the grey brigade, he made his debut at Navan in a 2m bumper in September finishing a nose second to One Last Tango when trained by Paul Hennessey, then came across the water to Paul Henderson, and finished 3rd in a 2m Cheltenham bumper in October, beaten ¾ l behind Bonttay. He should certainly win a bumper, and looks as if 2m 4f over hurdles would suit.

Trainer P.Henderson

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Nina The Terrier

5 y bm Milan- Shees A Dante (Martin)

Useful mare, she made her debut at Doncaster in November last year, winning a 2m bumper by 2 ¼ l from Schalke, then was 4th in a listed bumper at Huntingdon, beaten 12 ¾ l behind Rainyday Woman. In February this year she finished 5th in a 2m bumper at Kempton, beaten 29 ½ l by Balco Coastal, then in March at Southwell, finished 4th in a 2m mares bumper, beaten 3 ¾ l by Marsh Wren (gave 3lb). In May at Warwick she won a 2m mares maiden hurdle by 3l from Subway Surf, then after a break, reappeared at Chepstow in early October, winning a 2m 3f mares novice hurdle by 4 ¼ l from Runwiththetide (received 9lb), then followed up at Newbury in early November, winning a 2m mares novice hurdle by 2 3/4l from Ahorsewithnoname (received 8lb) . Alan King says she is a sweet filly who will be better over 2 ½ m. She sticks to hurdles, and should win more races.

Trainer A King

2021/22 Jumps Profile - My Drogo

6 y bg Milan – My Petra (Bob, Cliff, Steve)

One of the best novice hurdlers last season, he is an exciting prospect for novice chases this season. He made his debut at Cheltenham in a 2m bumper last October, finishing 2nd, beaten 1 ¾ l by I am Maximus, then in November, at Newbury won a 2m novice hurdle by 1 ¼ l from Saggazza, and followed up at Ascot in December in a grade 2 novice hurdle, beating Llandinabo Lad (gave 5lb), 2 ¾ l. He went to Kelso in March this year winning a grade 2 novice hurdle by 9 ½ l from Do Your Job, and finished the season with victory at Aintree, winning  the 2m 4g grade 1 Mersey novice hurdle by 9 ½ l from Minella Drama. Rated as “exceptional” by his trainer he should be among the top 2 ½ mile novice chasers this season

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Minella Indo

I am sure that even watching Cheltenham on the TV last year, the action seemed rather underwhelming, probably due to the lack of crowds. The Editor was not overly impressed with last season’s Gold Cup and as already mentioned, I am hoping this season Chantry House will step up. That said, you can only beat what is up against you and Minella Indo did just that last season.

He made his debut at Dromahane in March 2018, winning a 3m 5y maiden point by 6l from Big Debates. He made his debut under rules at Thurles in April finishing 3rd in a 2m bumper, beaten 5 ¼ l behind Passageway. He reappeared in December that year, finishing 3rd in a 2m 4f maiden hurdle at Limerick, beaten 9 ¼ l behind Small Farm, then in February 2019, was 2nd in a 3m grade 3 hurdle, beaten 4l by Allaho(received 4lb). He then came over to Cheltenham in March, and recorded his first win under rules taking the 3m grade 1 Albert Bartlett novice hurdle by   2l from Commander of Fleet at odds of 50/1 ! He finished the season at Punchestown winning the 3m grade 1 novice hurdle by 2l from Allaho. 

Reappearing at Gowran Park in November 2019, he was 2nd in a 2m 4f beginners chase, beaten 8l by Laurina (received 7lb), then in January last year, won a 3m Beginners chase at Navan by 1 ½ l from Captain Cj. He then came over to Cheltenham again and finished 1l 2nd to Champ in the 3m grade 1 RSA novice chase. 

Reappearing at Wexford in October last year he won a 2m 7f grade 3 chase by 25 l from Milan Native (received 5lb), then followed up in a 3m grade 2 chase at Navan in November beating Braham Bull 7 ½ l. He then fell at Leopardstown in December in the 3m grade 1 Saviils chase, and then in February was 4th at Leopardstown in the 3m grade 1 Irish Gold Cup, beaten 6 ¾ l behind Kemboy, before coming over to Cheltenham again and winning the 3m 2f grade 1 Gold Cup by 1 ¼ l from A Plus Tard. 

He reappeared at Down Royal recently in the 3m grade 1 Champion Chase, finishing 2nd beaten ¾ l by Frodon. He is obviously high class, and will win more races this season.

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Journey With Me

5 y ch g Mahler – Kilbarry Demon (Cod)

Considered a top class prospect at Knockeen, he is expected to take high rank in the staying novice hurdle division and is already 25/1 for the Albert Bartlett in March. He made a winning debut at Ballindenisk in November last year wining a 3m 4y maiden point by 12 l from Gentleman De Mai. He then joined Henry De Bromhead and won on his rules debut at Gowran Park in March this year taking a 2m 2f bumper by 13l from Galudon. 

It will be interesting to track his progress

Trainer H De Bromhead

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Jonbon

5 y bg Walk In The Park – Star Face  (  Bob, Steve)

One of the could be anything category he made his debut at Dromahane last November, winning a 3m 4 year old point by 15l from Lavorante, then, having moved across the water to Nicky Henderson, reappeared at Newbury in March this year, winning a 2m bumper by 4 ¼ l from Flying Demon.  Nicky Henderson told the Punter: "I hope he will lose this price tag thing sooner rather than later in life, because every time he runs everyone starts saying what he cost. That is a tag he has got to live with, it is not his fault.

"He has grown into a magnificent horse through the summer. He has got everything – he is a full brother to Douvan, he has got speed, he has got jumping ability, he goes on any ground, although I am not going to run him on fast ground. He has done plenty, we have had no hiccups, but I have not been in any great rush because of the weather. You can imagine where he is going to start, in one of those Newbury type novice hurdles that we have used for most of them."

Trainer N.Henderson

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Go Dante

5 y bg Kayf Tara – Whoops A Daisy  (Cod)

Smart looking novice hurdler, highly rated by his trainer. He made his debut at Wincanton in a 2m bumper in April this year beating Kahina Rules received 7lb)  7 ½ l, and reappeared at Bangor at the end of October, winning a 2m novice hurdle by 18 l from Green Planet (received 1lb).  Olly Murphy told The Punter “ I think an awful of of this horse, He could be the best of our novice hurdlers this season."

Trainer O.Murphy

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Galvin

7 y bg Gold Well – Burren Moonshine (Neil, Steve)

High class performer, and possibly still on the upgrade, he made his debut at Roscommon in July 2018 in a 2m colts and geldings (4-7 years) flat race, winning by 7 ½ l from Gateway To Europe, then in July won a 2m bumper at Limerick by 16 l from Ranger P (received 10 lb), and then in August at Perth won a 2m maiden hurdle by 1 ¾ l from An Fear Ciuin. He reappeared at Navan in January 20 19, winning a 2m novice hurdle by 5l from Whoshotthesherrif, (received 7lb), then in February at Ayr, took another 2m novice hurdle by1 ¼ l from Elvis Mail (received 6lb). He then ran in the 2m 5f grade 1 Ballymore novice hurdle at Cheltenham, finishing  6th, 15 l behind City Island, and finished the season at Ayr in a 2m novice hurdle, finishing 2nd beaten 6l by Getaway Trump. Reappearing at Galway in October he fell on his chasing debut at Galway, then In November at Fairyhouse, finished 5th in a 2m 5f Beginners Chase, 10 ½ l behind Ronald Pump (received 3lb). He aws then 2nd at Punchestown in a 2m 3f novice chase, beaten 8l by Salsaretta, then in March 2020, at Cheltenham, finished 2nd in 2m 4f listed handicap chase, beaten 3 ¼ l by Imperial Aura (gave 1 lb). 

In July 2020 he got off the mark over fences, winning a 2m 5f chase by 22l from Make My Heart Fly (received 1lb), followed up at Killarney in another 2m 5f novice chase , beating Waitnsee 1 ½, l (received 7 lb), then in October at Tipperary, beat Waitnsee again, 3 ½ l in a grade 3 2m 4f novice chase, giving 10 lb on this occasion. 3 weeks later he followed up at Cheltenham in a 3m novice chase beating Soldier of Love 7l, then moved trainers from Gordon Elliott to Ian Ferguson. Reappearing in March this year at the Cheltenham Festival he beat Next Destination 1 ½ l in the 3m 6f grade 2 National Hunt Challenge cup novice chase. 

Given a break and a move back to Gordon Elliott, he reappeared at Punchestown in October this year, winning a 3m grade 3 chase by ½ l from Annamix (received 8lb), and then at Down Royal, in the 3m grade 1 Champion Chase finished 2nd to Frodon, beaten  ¾ l. He should make his mark in the staying chase division this season.

Trainer G.ELLIOTT

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Fable

6 y bm Coastal Path – Toscane es Fleurs (Martin)

Martin has a share in this mare who made her debut at Oldcastle in a 3m mares maiden point in September last year, winning by 12l from Cloneyhurke Maid. She moved across the water to Seven Barrows and reappeared at Wincanton in February this year, in a 2m 5f mares novice hurdle, beaten a neck by Rose of Arcadia, then won at Huntingdon 3 weeks later taking a 2m 4f mares maiden hurdle by 1 ¼ l from Juniper, and followed up at Haydock in March, in a 3m mares novice hurdle beating Mrs Barnes (received 3lb) 8 ½ l. 

Nicky Henderson told the punter  “She’s a fascinating mare. She came over in the Spring and I have to say I thought she was the slowest horse I’ve ever seen! I could watch her start galloping, go for breakfast and come back to watch her finish. Anyway, we gave her a run first time out and she was second. I was really pleased and then she won twice, really nicely.

"She’s not badly handicapped, so I’d be interested to see how much further she could go over hurdles and see if she is at least a Listed mare. To get her some black type would be a priority, but she could jump fences tomorrow. I’d quite like to give her one run over hurdles anyway, just to see if she belongs in that category because she might just be quite high (in the handicap). If so, we’ll just go chasing."

I am sure Martin will enjoy this season with this mare.

Trainer N.Henderson

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Eklat De Rire

7 y bg Saddex – Rochdale (Bob, Peej)

An interesting pick he is lightly raced for a 7 year old, but has a high success rate when he has run. He made his debut at Dromahane in November 2019, in a 3m5 year old  geldings maiden point, beating Carrig Copper ½ l. Moving to Henry De Bromhead, he made his rules debut in February 2020, finishing 2nd in a 2m 4f maiden hurdle, 1 ¾ l behind Foxy Jacks, then in March at Thurles, won a 2m 7f maiden hurdle by 6l from All About Joe. 

He Reappeared in December last year at Punchestown, winning a 3m 1f beginners chase by 3 ½ l from School Boy Hours, then, after a long absence, won at Naas in January this year, taking a 3m 1f grade 3 novice chase by 1 ¾ l from Escaria Ten. He then ran in the 3m  grade 1  Brown Advisory novice chase at Cheltenham, still when in contention when unseating 3 out Monkfish won the race. He reappeared recently at Wexford, winning a 2m 7f listed chase by 4 ½ l from Conflated, and looks sure to win more staying chases, especially if conditions are testing.

Trainer H. De Bromhead.

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Eric Bloodaxe

6y bl g Saint Des Saints  (Neil)

Interesting pick, he has some smart form to his name, notably his debut at Fairyhouse in December 2019, where he beat Ferney Hollow 2 ½ l in a 2m bumper. He then followed up at Leopardstown at the end of December beating Wide Receiver (received 4 lb), 2 ½ l. In February last year he then disappointed at Leopardstown in a 2m bumper, finishing 7th, beaten 20 ¼ l behind Appreciate It, but was reported lame afterwards. Following an absence of 452 days he reappeared in a 2m grade 1 bumper at Leopardstown in April this year, finishing 4th beaten 13 ½ l behind Kilcruit. He will presumably go hurdling and should win novice events if re-finding the form of his first 2 starts.

Trainer J P O’Brien

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Chantry House

7 y br g Yeats – The Last Bank (Cliff, Peej, Steve)

This horse made a big impression on the editor last season, and I was not overly impressed with last year’s Gold Cup, so I am hoping this one can step up and take the Gold Cup this year.  He made his debut at Stowlin in April 2018, in a 4 year old 3m point, and was leading Monkfish when unseating his rider 3 out. Reappearing in December at Tattersalls Farm, he won a 4 year maiden 3m point by ¾ l from Envol Pierjiand moved to Nicky Henderson after that. His English debut was at Warwick in March 2019, where he won a 2m bumper by 3 ½ l from Edwardstone, then after a break, reappeared at Cheltenham in December, winning a 2m 1f novice hurdle by 1 ¾ l from Stolen Silver, then followed up at Newbury in February 2020, winning a 2m novice hurdle by 4 ½ l from Manvers House (received 6lb). He then went Cheltenham and finished 3rd in the 2m Supreme novice hurdle, beaten 11 ¼  l behind stablemate Shiskin.

He reappeared at Ascot last November winning a 2m 3f novice chase by 26 l from Up The Straight, then at December at Cheltenham was third in a 2m 4f novice chase, beaten 13 ¾ l behind stablemate Fusil Raffles (gave 3lb. He then went to Wetherby in February this year, winning a 2m 5f novice chase by 3 ¼ l from Coconut Splash (received 6lb), then at Cheltenham in March, won the 2m 4f Grade 1 Marsh novice chase by 3l from Fusil Raffles. He finished the season at Aintree, winning the 3m 1f grade 1 Mildmay novice chase by 32 l from Shan Blue, and will hopefully be among the best 3m chasers this season.

He reappeared at Sandown recently, winning a 3m listed chase by 27 l from The Big Breakaway, (received 6lb).

Trainer N.Henderson

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Capodanno

5 y ch g Manduro – Day Gets Up (Cod)

Gelding who made his debut at Compiegne in November 2019, he was 2l 2nd in a 2m 1f 3year old conditions hurdle, behind Fire Dancer. He then moved to Willie Mullins and reappeared at Clonmel last December, finishing 3rd in a 2m 3f maiden hurdle beaten 3 ½ l by Pepite De Belle. In January this year at Clonmel he won a 2m maiden hurdle by 7l from Dunboyne (gave 2lb), then was 3rd in a 2m 4f rated hurdle at Thurles in February, beaten 8l by Velvet Elvis (received 5lb). He was then 4th in a novice handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse, beaten 2l by stablemate Lady Brefnni (received 1 1lb), and finished the season at Punchestown, winning a 3m grade B handicap hurdle by 12l from Capilano Bridge (received 4lb). 

Willie Mullins told The Punter “He was impressive he’s a fine big horse, a chaser in the making He’s one I will be looking forward to over fences, he should be a force in staying novice chases."

Trainer W.Mullins

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Call Of The Wild

4y bg Fame and Glory- Glory Days (Peej)

One of the dark hoses, could be anything brigade, he made his debut at Huntingdon in May this year, winning a 2m bumper by 8 ½ l from Urban Grit,(received 3lb), then reappeared recently at Stratford in a 2m novice hurdle, finishing 2nd, beaten ½ l by Onemorefortheroad (gave 11lb). Alan King told the Punter “He is a horse I have always liked, he has plenty of speed and is an exciting prospect."

Trainer A. King

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Buzz

7 y gr g Motivator – Tiysha (Peej)

Versatile performer on flat and over hurdles, he is also a very decent sort at both codes. Nicky Henderson told The Punter, "It was the Stafford family’s idea, in the middle of the summer when the horse was out in the field, to run in the Cesarewitch. I thought it was crazy. First of all, he wants soft ground, and you won’t get that at Newmarket. Second, how am I going to get him ready? I would need to give him a prep run. I thought it was a pretty crackers idea.

"He came in on July 12, which was 12 weeks before the race. He had one racecourse gallop on one weekend when it rained. We took him to Newbury for a gallop on his own, and he had a nice time which helped him a lot. We had a very clean run, having to be pretty hard on him. He was having to gallop twice a week to get there.

"The improvement throughout last season was dramatic and the important bit was that he proved his stamina at Aintree. So now it’s a question of how far he can go. We may try him straight over 3m since he now has a run under his belt. He could be anything, particularly when the ground is soft."

His best efforts Last Season were as follows, he won at Ascot in November taking a 2m handicap hurdle by 7l from Rosie and Millie (received 7lb), then in December over same course and distance was 2nd in a grade 3 limited handicap hurdle, beaten 1 ¾ l behind Not So Sleepy (received 6lb). He was 5th at Newbury in the Tote Gold Trophy handicap hurdle over 2m , finish-ng 5 ¾ l behind Soaring Glory (received 14lb), and finished at Aintree with a 2nd behind Abracadabras beaten 1 ¼ l in the 2m 4f grade 1 Aintree hurdle. Stepping up in trip , if he gets 3m, as it looks as though he will , he could be a player in the stayers in March

Trainer N.Henderson

2021/22 Jumps Profile - Brave Kingdom

5 y bg  Mansonnien –New Foundation (Martin)

One of the dark horse brigade, he made his debut at Cragmore in a 2m 4f, 4 year old maiden point in February2020, finishing 3rd beaten 9 ½ l behind Brandy Love (received 5 lb), then after a year off, he reappeared for Harry Whittington at Fontwell in February this year winning a 2m 1f bumper by 4 ¼ l from Storm Dennis. He then moved to Paul Nicholls and in early November won a 2m 3f maiden hurdle by 9 ½ l from Camdonian, and looks a useful prospect.

Trainer P.Nicholls