2025/26 Jumps Issue 18 - First Cheltenham points and days 3 and 4 previewed

Headlines

Johhny the Ultima Cheltenham Star

Lossiemouth is crowned Champion Hurdler

Temps Times it Pefectly in Champion Chase

Report

We start at Cheltenham on Tuesday where in the 3m 1f premier handicap chase Johhnywho (Cod) took his chance, Midfield, not fluent 3 out, headway going easily before 2 out, pushed along and left in second after last, led final 110yds, ridden out, winning by ½ l. He gets 88.8 points.

In the 2m grade 1 Champion Hurdle Lossiemouth ( Neil), Brighterdaysahead (Bob), took their chances, 

Lossiemouth, Travelled strongly, soon raced in second, led on turn after 2 out, ridden and went clear final 110yds, won going away, winning impressively by 6 ½ l. She gets 79.8 points.

Brighterdaysahead, Prominent early, soon led, headed on turn after 2 out, jumped left last, no extra run-in, 2nd beaten 6 ½ l. She gets 26.8 points.

Yesterday in the 2m grade1 Champion Chase Il Etait Temps (Neil, Peej), went to post, Soon midfield, smooth headway from 3 out, led and jumped slightly left 2 out, clear when pecked on landing last, ridden briefly and went further clear run-in, winning readily by 10l. He gets 53.5 points

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy

              March    Total

Neil            133.3         772.05

Steve         00         633.79

Bob           26.8      536.11

Martin      00        356.16

Peej           53.5         415,54

Cliff          00        348.75

Cod        88.8         288.94

Cheltenham Grand Slam

Neil      133.3

Cod       88.8

Bob         26.8

Peej         53.5

Stats Per String

           Runs        Wins

Martin      46      14

Bob           42  18

Cliff           47   14

Neil          55 20

Peej           41 12

Cod           44 7

Steve          45   19

The Weeks Losers

We’re Red And Blue, Akimos, Jukebox King, Sober Glory, Mydaddypaddy, Lulamba, Jagwar, Brighterdaysahead, The New Lion, Anzadam, No Drama This End, Final Demand, Wendigo, Kateria, Iberico Lord, Stumptown, Majborough, Quilixios, L’Eau Du Sud, Jazzy Matty , Calico, Be Aware

Today at Cheltenham

1.20 Punter Entries, Bambino Fever, Kingston Queen

Bambino Fever was a good winner of a maiden hurdle last time but at 11/10 fav is there on an assumption of big improvement and she has a bit to find on a few of these on ratings. Kingston Queen won a grade 2 last time and at 25/1 is a decent ew player. The unbeaten Oldschool Outlaw at 9/2 will do for me.

2.00 Punter Entries  Regents Stroll, 

Regents Stroll is 11/2 jf and holds a decent chance but was beaten here last time. Unbeaten course and distance winner Sixmilebridge at 9/1 is the one for me.

2.40 Punter Entries Wodhoo

Unbeaten this season Wodhoo is 8/11 fav and this should be a match with Jade De Grugy who has been chasing this season but is a grade 1 winning hurdler and is 2 points better on hurdles ratings. At 7/2 she is worth a little interest against the fav.

3.20 Punter Enties Teauphoo, Ballyburn, , Hewick, Doddiethegreat, 

 It is hard to see Doddiethegreat or Hewick in the shake up, Ballyburn should go well, but has twice been behind Teauphoo, However the big danger could come from the improving Ma Shantou who is reported in great form and at 6/1 gets my vote.

4.00 Punter Entries Fact To File, Banbridge, Impaire Et Pasee, Jonbon.

The big surprise was Jonbon being declared along with Fact To File. 

Jonbon has improved with the step up in trip, but no 10 year old has ever won this. Fact To File is clear on ratings and if returning to last years form will win. Impaire Et Passe should follow him home

Friday

1.20 Punter Entries Macho Man, 

Willie Mullins has the first 3 in the betting and Macho Man was behind the fav for this last time. On ratings, 2nd in the betting Selma De Vary is best and with the 7lb mares allowance at 9/2 looks the bet.

2.40 Punter Entries Dino Blue, Diva Luna. 

Dino Blue won this last year and has done nothing wrong since, so is worth her place at the head of the market, but 13/8 against 21 Diva Lunar and Panic Attack looks short.

Diva Luna is highly regarded by Ben Pauling and is unbeaten over fences and looks a solid ew price at 9/1, Panic Attack has been very impressive and at 9/2 will do for me.

3.20  Punter Entries Doctor Du Mesnil

Doctor Du Mesnil is held by the Passing Wife and at 25/1 has a place claims at best. Thedeviluo is a solid shout at 9/2.

4.00 Punter Entries The Jukebox Man, Gaelic Warrior, Jango Baie, Inothewayurthinkin, Haiti Coleurs, Grey Dawning, 

The Punter horses fill the first 6 in the betting and it’s 4/1 joint favs. 

Inothewayurthinkin won this last year, but has a poor season to put behind him but has been backed as if a big run is expected, but it’s a leap of faith. Jango Baie needs to find a bit more and was ½ l behind the Improving The Jukeboxman at Kempton, and The Jukebox man is 4/1 co fav with Gaelic Warrior. And I like The Jukebox man and the improving Haiti Coleurs at 8/1

4.40 Wonderwall is a course and distance winner, tops the ratings and at 5/1 looks a standout, and you can sing it after .

5.20  Punter Entry Hot Fuss in a tricky race is difficult to weigh up. he won at Windsor but disappointed at Kelso last time, he has an outside place chance and at 40/1 is priced fairly

 

Weekend Runners

Friday 

Cheltenham

1.20 Macho Man

2.00 Celtic Dino, Hot Fuss

2.40 Dinoblue, Diva Luna

3.20 No Drama This End, Doctor Du Mesnil

4.00 Gaelic Warrior, The Jukebox man, Jango Baie, Inothewayurthinkin, Haiti Coleurs, Grey Dawning, Banbridge, 

5.20 Hot Fuss

Fakenham

1.35 Babyken

Saturday 

Uttoxeter

2.25 Juracon

News

Galopin Des Champs will not run in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup after suffering a setback, with his stablemate Gaelic Warrior now clear favourite with some firms. 

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2025/26 Jumps Issue 17 - Editor's Cheltenham preview (part one)

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy

              February     Total

Neil            128.21         638.75

Steve         154.61         633.79

Bob           172.21        509.31

Peej           108.88         362.04

Martin      66.6          356.16

Cliff          106.11        348.75

Cod        26.26          200.14

So Congratulations to Bob who was February trainer of the Month

Stats Per String

           Runs        Wins

Martin      40      13

Bob           35  18

Cliff           42   14

Neil          46 18

Peej           37 11

Cod           37   7

Steve          41    19

The Weeks Losers

Innamorato, Hot Fuss

Weekend Runners

Saturday 

Sandown

2.27 We’re Red And Blue

4.10 Akimos

Hereford

4.02 Akimos

Sunday 

Warwick

3.10 Jukebox King

Tuesday

Cheltenham 

1.20 Supreme Novice Hurdle

Punter Entries, Mydaddypaddy, Sober Glory, Baron Noir, Macho Man

Old Park Star is favourite for this, and is unbeaten over hurdles and has some wide winning margins to his name and has to be respected, Mydaddypaddy has a bit to find on form, and was a beaten fav last time, Baron Noir has done little wrong and is a decent ew price at 25/1 but I am going with Sober Glory, who also has 3 wide winning margins to his name, and I think is over priced at 14/1.

2.00 Arkle novice chase

Punter Entries, Lulamba, Salvator Mundi, Mambonumberfive, Be Aware

Be Aware has been 2nd 4 times including a 9 ½ l beating by Lulamba and others appeal more, Salvator Mundi had disappointed twice before a wide margin win last time out in a Beginners chase, a high class hurdler he is a big price at 16/1, Mambonumberfive is unlikely to run here, but if he does 50/1 is way to big, and Lulamba is 13 /8 f, which is short enough but has the best form by some way, though Steel Ally, unbeaten in 3 looks over priced at 16/1 and Kopek Des Borges, whilst lacking experience is classy but to short for me at 7/4. I think Lulamba will win but an ew saver on Steel Ally or Salvator Mundi are plays.

3.20 Ultima Premier Handicap Chase

Punter Entries, Jagwar, Handstands, Myretown, Wendigo, Johnnywho, Resplendent Grey, Henry’s Friend

Wendigo is due to run in the Brown’s Advisory, Handstands has been a bit disappointing and off 11-12 makes little appeal, Myretown ran a shocker last time but is a course and distance winner having won this last year, and off 10-13, has place claims at least at 12/1. Johnnywho has been moderate this season and makes little appeal, Henry’s Friend has similary been disappointing and is easily passed over, Resplendent Grey ran well behind Protektorat last time but has 11-10, and probably place claims at best at 25/1, which comes to Jagwar who is 11/2 fav off 11-9. He has done little wrong in 2 placed efforts but looks in the grip of the handicapper, so I think Lucinda Russel has the 2 best ew shouts with King Of Answers and Myretown both 12/1.

4.00 Champion Hurdle

Punter Entries, The New Lion, Brighterdaysahead, Lossiemouth, Anzadam, Ballyburn 

This is likely to be a poor renewal and the fact The New Lion is 9/4 fav says it all. Lossiemouth at 7/2 is priced as  runner in the mares hurdle instead, Anzadam has disappointed this season, Ballyburn has been racing over a lot further and is unlikely to run, so with Golden Ace continues to be under rated and at 7/1 is a great price, but it may lie  between Brighterdaysahead and The New Lion ,and at 7/2 I will be  siding with Brighterdaysahead.

4.40 Plate Premier Handicap Chase

Punter Entries, Handstands, Mambonumberfive

Mambonumberfive is not certain to run, Handstands off 12-0 makes little appeal and so I will go ew with Donnacha at 12/1

5.20 National Hunt Challenge Cup, Novice Handicap Chase

Punter Entries, The Jukebox Kid is not a certain runner as he may be kept for the Irish National but Ben Pauling says he is tempted here and feels he has a big chance. If he does go 16/1 is a decent ew play

Wednesday

1.20 Turners Novice Hurdle

Punter Entries, No Drama This End, Baron Noir, Doctor Du Mesnil

Baron Noir is improving and has won his last 2 but has abit to find on ratings, though he looks over priced at 40/1, Doctor Du Mesnil, has finished 2nd on his last 2 starts and has a bit more to find than Baron Noir, is a 50/1 shot. So No Drama This End is 4/1 fav, is a course and distance winner and looks good value at that price.

2.00 Brown Advisory Novice Chase

Punter Entries Final Demand, Wendigo

Final Demand is yet to win beyond 2m 5f, Wendigo has won his last 2 over 3m, so although Final Demand is 7/2 f, I will go with Wendigo, who at 8/1 looks good value and is very strongly fancied by Ben Pauling.

2.40 MGM Cup Handicap Hurdle

Punter Entries Kateria , Iberico Lord, Celtic Dino

Kateria has been disappointing this season, but has slipped down the handicap, but looks short enough at 14/1. Celtic Dino and Iberico Lord have similar chances, Sam Thomas says Celtic Dino is in very good form and gives him a strong chance, Nicky Henderson says stepping up in trip has helped Iberico Lord and whilst he has gone up 8lb for his last win holds solid ew claims at 16/1.

3.20 Cross Country Limited Handicap Chase 

No Punter Entries

Not Suprisingly course and distance winners Stumptown and Favori de Champdou, head both the weights and the market. Final Orders is another Course and distance winner and receives 15 lb from Stumptown and 10 lb from Favori Champdou, and Gavin Cromwell expects a big run and at 10/1 is a sound ew play. For big ew play Nicky Richards says Famous bridge has schooled really well over these types of obstacles and has loads of stamina, has a low weight if he gets in and could be a bit of fun off 40/1.

4.00 Queen Mother Champion Chase

Punter Entries, Calico, Il Etait Temps, Jonbon, L’Eau Du Sud, Majborough, Quilixios, Thistle Ask

This is all if, but’s maybe, as now Marine Nationale is a non runner options for a few these are under review, as Jonbon was initially going to the Ryan Air, Nicky Henderson is now undecided.  Quilixios has not been out yet so can’t be fancied even if he turns up, Calico is due to go in the Grand Annual, and that would still appear the sensible option, L’Eau Du Sud does run and Dan Skelton is pretty bullish about him and at 6/1 is a nice price. Thistle Ask doesn’t run but this is Majbrough’s target and he is 6/4 fav which looks way to short and I would stick with L’Eau du Sud ew.

4.40 Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase 

Punter Entries, Calico, Be Aware, Mambonumberfive 

Mambonumberfive has other entries but is a big player off 11-5 if going and 16/1 is a nice price. Be Aware heads the market at 8/1 and off 11-6 looks in the handicappers grip after 4 2nd’s. Calico is a course and distance winner but has 11-12 and no winner has carried any thing like that before. So the Improving Vanderpoel off 11-0 at 10/ looks the one to be on.

News

Last year's Champion Chase hero Marine Nationale has been ruled out of a defence of his crown next week by trainer Barry Connell after he was found to have a sore neck on Tuesday morning.

"He was very sore through his neck this morning," said Connell. "We had the vets in this morning and they put him on pain relief medication and we're just going to be out of time with withdrawal times."

Jonbon’s participation at the Cheltenham Festival hinges on whether Fact To File lines up in the Ryanair Chase or is supplemented for the Gold Cup, with Nicky Henderson revealing he will "in all probability" head to the Aintree Bowl at the Grand National meeting instead.

The Seven Barrows trainer has ruled out a tilt at the Champion Chase, in which Jonbon was beaten last year, leaving the Ryanair as the only option after he stepped up in trip to land the Ascot Chase over the same distance. However, with both horses owned by JP McManus, Henderson says it is more likely Jonbon skips Cheltenham and instead tackles three miles for the first time at Aintree, a meeting he has won the 2m4f Melling Chase at in each of the last two years.

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2024/25 Jumps Issue 18 - A dramatic first two days at The Festival

Headlines

Regents Has A Stroll Round Wincanton

Dante Goes in at Sandown

Peej gets Redemption at Naas

Editor Plays his Golden Ace in Champion Hurdle

Peej nails his couleurs to winning post

Jango Baie Lands Arkle Chase

Lion Roars Home in Turners Hurdle

Report

We start at Wincanton las Thursday where in the 2m 4f novice hurdle Regents Stroll (Bob, Martin, Steve), went to post, Took keen hold, made all, pestered from 5th, hung left on turn after 3 out, eased clear run-in,  winning readily by 2l. He gets 11.09 points.

At Sandown on Saturday in the 2m handicap hurdle Go Dante ( Cod, Martin), took his chance, In touch with leaders on outer, ridden and headway approaching last, went second last, kept on well and led towards finish, winning by ½ l. He gets 17 points.

On Sunday at Naas in the 2m 3f maiden hurdle Redemption Day (Peej), took his chance, Jumped right throughout, prominent, not fluent 3rd, disputed lead approaching last, ridden and led clearly then ran on well run-in, winning by 1 ¾ l. He gets 23. 08 points.

On Tuesday at Cheltenham in the 2m grade 1 Arkle novice chase Jango Baie (Steve), went to post, Set good pace, headed and prominent 3rd, towards rear before 7th, outpaced after 4 out, mistake 3 out, some headway when mistake 2 out, ridden and rallied approaching last, ran on well run-in, led towards finish winning by ¾ l. He gets 62 points.

In the 2m 4f grade 1 mares hurdle Lossiemouth  (Neil), went to post, Travelled strongly, raced in second, switched right and led going easily approaching last, nudged along and went clear run-in, winning readily by 7 ½ l. She Gets 53.34 points.

In the 2m grade 1 Champion Hurdle Golden Ace (Cliff0 took her chance, in touch with leaders, slightly hampered 4 out, soon outpaced, went third just after 3 out, went second but 5 lengths down when left in lead last, ridden out run-in, kept on well, winning by 9l. She gets 148.6 points

In the 3m 6f novice handicap chase Haiti Couleurs (Peej), took his chance, Prominent, joined leader 4th, led 3 out, jumped left 2 out, ridden and 5 lengths ahead last, stayed on, winning by 4 ½ l. He gets 29 points.

On Wednesday in the 2m 5f grade 1 Turners Novice hurdle The New Lion (Bob, Cliff, Cod), went to post, Towards rear, steady headway from 3 out, going easily 2 out, pushed along and switched sharply right approaching last, pressed leader last, ridden run-in, led final 110yds, kept on well, winning by ¾ l. He gets 29 points.

In the 2m grade 1 Queen Mother Champion Chase, Jonbon ( Steve), took his chance, n touch with leaders, bad mistake and dropped to last 9th, pushed along and no impression before 2 out, 14 lengths down last, stayed on run-in, went modest second towards finish 2nd beaten 18l He gets 26.4 points.

John  Torpey Memorial Trophy

             March             Total

Bob         68.13                       644.54

Steve      127.17                      578.29                    

Neil        67.18                       503.84

Peej      52.08                        485.611

Cliff          177.6                     518.25

Martin      41.93                    351.45

Cod       46                          351.24

Stats Per String

        Runners           Winners

Bob,           44       21

Cliff           46    15

Cod,          43       13

Martin,      58     15

Neil           38     17

Peej          44     17

 Steve       39     20

The Weeks Losers

We’re Red And Blue, Bellocio, Salvator Mundi, Majborough, L’Eau Du Sud. Famous Bridge, Trelawne, Broadway Boy, Dysart Enos, Constitution Hill, Jonbon, State Man, Brighterdaysahead, Potters Charm, Ballyburn, Dancing City, Be Aware, Found A Fifty, Quilixios, Primoz

Cheltenham Grand Slam

Cliff     177.6

Steve   86.4

Neil     53.34

Peej     29

Cod    29

Bob    20

News

Nicky Henderson was dealt a blow on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival after he announced that Triumph Hurdle hope Palladium will miss the Grade 1 on Friday.

The four-year-old, who was a general 10-1 fourth favourite for the opener on the final day, became cast overnight and was experiencing some soreness in his box on Tuesday morning.

Flat Strings

Competition starts Saturday 3 May, so strings in by close of play Monday 28 April

Weekend Entries

Friday   

Cheltenham

1.20 Hello Neighbour, , Willy De Houelle, 

2.00 Go Dante, Norman Fletcher, We’re Red And Blue

3.20 Port Joulain

4.00 Galopin Des Champs, 

5.20 Norman Fletcher

Fakenham

4.15 Norman Fletcher

Saturday  

Kempton

3.57 Kingston Pride , Quebecois

Uttoxeter

4.10 Kingston Pride, Quebecois

Thurles

4.15 Hewick

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

Leg 10 Steve

Leg 11  Steve

Leg 12  Cliff

Leg 13  Neil

Leg 14 Cliff

Leg   15 Bob

Leg 16 Bob

Leg 17 Peej

Leg 18 Bob

Leg 19 Neil

Leg 20 Peej

First winner bonus available, In the UK - Brighton, Cartmel, Perth, Southwell,(Flat) , Worcester 

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2024/25 - The Editor's Cheltenham Preview (Tuesday-Thursday)

Tuesday 

1.20 Supreme Novice Hurdle

Punter Entries - Salvator Mundi, won a grade 2 las time out but stable mate and odds on favourite Kopek Des Bordes won a grade 1 ,impeseeively by 13 l last time and looks hard to beat. Tripoli Flyer (20/1  has won his last 2 including a grade 2 last time by 7 ½ land is  my each way tip) 

2.00 Arkle Novice chase

Punter Entries - Majborough, L’Eau Du Sud, Jango Baie, Ballyburn, Firefox, 

Majborough will take all the beating. Ballyburn runs elsewhere and L’Eau Du Sud has done nothing wrong but at 9/2 makes little appeal. Firefox was well behind Majborough last time. 

2.40 Ultima Handicap Chase

Punter Entries - Trelawne, Famous Bridge, Broadway Boy, Masaccio

Trelawne looks high in the weights, , Masaccio looks harshly treated and I am surprised he is shorter than lasy time out winner Famous Bridge who was 4th in this last year. He is still on a low mark and a 20/1 is value here.

3.20 Mares Hurdle

Punter Entries - Lossiemouth  Golden Ace, Dysart Enos 

I can’t see Golden Ace or Dysart Enos being better than around 3rd or 4th, Lossiemouth is 4/6 favourite and if she is none the worse for her crashing fall last time should win, although stable mate Jade De Grugy  could make life difficult and they are close on ratings.

4.00 Champion Hurdle

Punter Entries - Constitution Hill, Brighterdaysahead, Lossiemouth, State Man

With Lossiemouth likely to go in the mares now Brighterdaysahead goes here, this should be between State Man. Constituition Hill and Brighterdaysahead, State Man was well beaten by Constitution Hill in 2023, so the unknown is can Constitution Hill give 7lb to Brighterdaysahead. I think so, but It could be close.

4.40 Juvenile handicap hurdle

Punter Entries - Willy De Houelle

I am no handicap expert, but I think Willy De Houelle has a big task under top weight as he has not even won this season. Beyondyourdreams catches my eye at 10/1 though he needs to jump better than last time

5.20 Novice Handicap Chase

Punter Entries Haiti Couleurs 

Haiti Couleurs has had a good season and holds a solid chance off 11-4 and 5/1 seems fair.

Wednesday 

1.20 Turners Novice Hurdle

Punter Entries - The New Lion, Potters Charm, Port Joulain 

The New Lion has been impressive this season and hopefully he can win for the home team, the one I fear from across the water is the Yellow Clay

2.00 Brown Advisory novice chase

Punter Entries - Ballyburn, Dancing City, Haiti Couleurs 

Tis looks a Peej benefit, but which of Ballyburn or Dancing City wins? Ballyburn's grade 1 win tips it in his favour, but I think it will be close.

2.40 Coral Cup handicap hurdle

Punter Entries - Be Aware

Be Aware off 10 -7 has the look of a Skelton plot, 7/1 favourite could be good value

3.20 Cross Country Limited Handicap Chase

No Punter Entries. 

Don’t really care but Stumptown was a TV series I enjoyed so that will do

4.00 Champion Chase

Punter Entries - Jonbon, Gaelic Warrior, Il Est Francais , Found A Fifty, Quilixios 

Quilixios is held by Jonbon on Tingle Creek form, Gaelic Warrior is held by Solness, Il Est Francais goes in the RyanAir, Found A Fifty is interesting if you put a line through last time as he was just touched off by Solness previously. 20/1 could be good each way value. Jonbon is the obvious choice, but I think a 10/11 he is worth opposing with Solness each way at 9/1 

4.40 Grand Annual handicap Chase

Punter Entries - Primoz

Primoz had a confidence booster at Kelso las time, winning by 54l. Off just 10-2 he could sneak in to the frame at 33/1 but is not the most reliable. Stablemate Traprain Law off 10-8 at 66/1 is my each way play

5.20 Champion Bumper 

No Punter Entries

No idea other than Willie Mullins wins it with some thing !

Thursday 

1.20 Mares Novice Hurdle

Punter Entries Diva Luna, Maughreen

Favourite for this is Sixandahalf, who won a maiden hurdle by 12 l last time, but lacks experience as does Maughreen, who won a novice hurdle las time and is second favourite. Diva Luna was beaten last time and the form was let down recently. Paul Nicholls Jubilee Rose has won her last 2 , is a bit more experienced than some, and at 9/1 is the each way play for me

2.00 Novice Limited handicap chase

Punter Entries - Firefox, Caldwell Potter, Masaccio

Firefox has run consistently well in high class novice chases and off 11-8 at 9/1 is sound each way value.  Masaccio has been schooled in cheek pieces and gone well, and Alan King is keen to run over this trip. Off 11 –2  he is interesting at 16/1 Caldwell Potter, has not quite lived up to expectations but his placed efforts are behind decent sorts and again off 11-4 he is a player  at 16/1. However favourite is Jagwar, 3 time winner his season including a CD win, so off 10- 11 it’s easy to see why he heads the market and he is the selection

2.40 Pertemps Handicap Hurdle

No Punter Entries

No real idea but Harbour Lake is reportedly working well, off a weigh that is often a winning one and 25/1. That will do

3.20 RyanAir Chase

Punter Entries  - Fact To File, Il Est Francais, Gaelic Warrior, Protektorat, , Spillames Tower, El Fabiolo, Found A fifty, Ginny’s Destiny.

El Fabiolo is missing Cheltenham and I Doubt Ginny’s Destiny or Gaelic Warrior will run here, . Found a Fifty would probably need to find a chunk of that on ratings o win here, Spillanes Tower has some smart form around 2 ½ miles and is interesting if he runs, Proektorat would make them all go, and Fact to File and Il Est Francais are class acts.It is a much deeper race than the Gold Cup and hard to call, but I will go with Fact To File

4.00 Stayers Hurdle

Punter Entries - Hewick, Langer Dan, Mystical Power, Strong Leader Teauphoo

This is a weak division currently. Strong Leader has disappointed this season, as has Mystical Power, Hewick has also disappointed this season over fences, and is is hard to see him winning here. If he wins this I will buy Cod he biggest Cocktail we can get made in the Gluepot, should he choose to join us at some point. Langer Dan has again disappointed this season and whilst he generally comes good at this time of year, he is now in grade 1 company. So last years winner Teauphoo is ev Favourite almost by default, and will probably follow up.

4.40 Premier Handicap Chase

Punter Entries - Firefox, Masaccio, Ginny’s Destiny

As previously stated, Ginny’s Deatiny is hard to fancy after a poor season, Firefox and Masaccio have solid place claims at double figure prices, and Jagwar again heads this Market and would be the selection

5.20 Amateur Jockeys handicap chase. 

No Punter Entries 

This is something of a lottery until the riders are announced, however Mr Vango unbeaten this season catches the eye, runs in nice red and blue colours, is a 16/1 shot, so he will do

2023/24 - Jumps Issue 19 - Five-way fight to avoid the Spoon

Headlines

Dawn Breaks rivals at Cheltenham

Protektorat  takes off in Ryan Air

Tea time in stayers hurdle

Pin Galops to Golden Glory

Policeman In Charge at Thurles

Report

At Cheltenham on Thursday in the 2m 4f grade 1 Turners novice chase, Grey Dawning ( Steve), went to post, In touch with leaders, going easily when challenging before 3 out, jumped slightly left and led 2 out, edged left approaching last, ridden run-in, soon idled, kept on towards finish, winning by 2l. He gets 57 points.

In the 2m 4f grade 1 Ryan Air Chase  Protektorat ( Peej), went to post, Travelled strongly, in touch with leaders, headway and challenging 2 out, disputed lead approaching last, led run-in, soon ridden, kept on well inside final 110yds, won going away  by 4l. He gets 95.2 points.

In the 3m grade 1 stayers hurdle Teahupoo (Peej), took his chance, Raced wide, in touch with leaders, not fluent 7th, pressed leaders on outer when mistake 2 out, went second then switched left before last, soon led and edged right, ridden and kept on well run-in, winning by 3 ¾ l. He gets 54.5 points.

On Friday in the 3m 2f grade 1 Gold Cup Galopin Des Champs (Cod , Neil, Peej), Gerri Colombe (Bob, Cliff, Martin, Neil), took their chances. Galopin Des Champs, Prominent, disputing second going easily 3 out, pushed along to lead 2 out, 3 lengths ahead last, ridden run-in, kept on well, winning by 3 ½ l. He gets 51.91 points. Gerri Colombe, In touch with leaders, jumped left 1st, headway and prominent 5th, pushed along 4 out, bit short of room home turn, pressed winner and ridden 2 out, 3 lengths down last, no impression run-in 2nd 3 ½ l. He gets 14.1 points.

On Saturday at Thurles Mister Policeman ( Martin Steve), went to post in the 2m 2f grade 3 chase, Raced in second, led narrowly after 4 out, going best approaching last, pushed out and kept on well towards finish, winning comfortably by 1 ½ l. He gets 16.1 points. 

John Torpey Memorial Trophy

        March   Total

Peej    365.01          1045.31

Steve   99.72         762.15         

Bob   95.1               606.49

Cliff    92.34           600.21

Neil    167.43               545.34

Martin    104.6            541.99

Cod   114.41             541.01

Apologies to Neil who should have got double points for Irish Point, now amended.

Cheltenham Grand Slam

Peej    365.01

Neil 167.43

Bob   95.1

Cliff   92.34

Martin 88.5

Cod 86.91

Steve 83.62

So Peej takes the 20 points.

News

The weights for next month's Randox Grand National are set for a sharp rise as Shark Hanlon has all but ruled top-weight Hewick out of the world's most famous jumps race and will instead aim the King George winner at the Aintree Bowl. Hewick missed last week's Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup because of soft ground, although he did watch the action unfold from his stable in Fenniscourt in a social media clip that has attracted well over five million views. 

Important Dates

The jump season finishes Saturday 27 April.

Flat Competition starts  Saturday 4th May.

The Editor will be away for the Flat start, so Peej will be doing the admin so please watch for his e mails on when he wants your strings in

Weekend Entries

Can’t find any!

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

Leg 10 Steve

Leg 11  Steve

Leg 12  Cliff

Leg 13  Neil

Leg 14 Cliff

Leg   15 Bob

Leg 16 Bob

Leg 17 Peej

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

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

2023/24 Jumps Issue 18 - Plenty of Cheltenham winners

Headlines

Cody Hunts Down Rivals at Leicester

Classico Chianti wins the Ultiima

Lossiemouth lands Mares Hurdle 

Man leaves Rivals in a State

Warrior beats off Rivals in Arkle

Bally Burns off Rivals in Gallagher hurdle

Fact Files Points away in Brown Chase

Dan’s The Man in Coral Cup

Party is Unexpected Winner

Report

We start at Leicester on Friday where in the 2m 4f handicap chase William Cody (Cod), took his chance, In touch with leaders on outer, left in lead 3 out, faced challenge 2 out, went clear approaching last, went further clear run-in, winning easily by 28l. He gets 27.5 points.

On Tuesday at Cheltenham in the 2m grade 1 Arkle Novice chase Gaelic Warrior ( Bob), took his chance, Travelled strongly, prominent, switched right and pressed leaders going easily 2 out, led approaching last, pushed along and went clear run-in, winning  impressively by 8 ½ l. He gets 81 points

In the 3m 1f Premier handicap chase Chianti Classico ( Peej), went to post, Travelled strongly, prominent early, in touch with leaders from 3rd, hit 6th, went second 15th, led before 3 out, soon faced challenge, pushed along and 2 lengths ahead when pecked on landing last, went clear inside final 110yds, winning by 4 ½ l. He gets 34 points.

In the 2m grade 1 Champion Hurdle, State Man (Peej, Martin), Irish Point( Neil), took their chances. 

State Man, Prominent on inner, not fluent 3 out, switched right and pressed leaders going easily home turn, led approaching last, ridden and kept on run-in winning by 1 ¼ l. Peej gets 76.4 points, Martin 51.4

Irish Point, Prominent, pressed leader going easily after 3 out, led narrowly home turn, soon faced challenge, headed approaching last, kept on run-in, 2nd 1 ¼ l. He gets 13.4 points.

In the 2m 4f grade 1 mares hurdle Lossiemouth ( Neil, Steve), took her chance, Travelled strongly, in rear, headway before 3 out, prominent 2 out, smooth headway and led approaching last, ridden final 110yds, winning  readily by 3l. Neil gets 51.62 points Steve 26.62

On Wednesday in the 2m 5f Grade 1 Gallagher novice hurdle Ballyburn ( Peej) went to post, Took keen hold, raced in second, led after 2 out, shaken up and 6 lengths ahead last, winning  easily by 13l. He gets 53 points.

In the 3m grade 1 Brown Advisory novice chase, Fact to File ( Cliff), took his chance, Jumped right on occasions, took keen hold, towards rear, in touch with leaders 10th, headway 3 out, soon pressed leaders going easily, led 2 out, good jump last, ridden briefly and went clear run-in, winning  readily by 3 ¾ l. He gets 78.24 points.

In the 2m 5f Premier handicap hurdle Langer Dan ( Cod), went to post, Travelled strongly, midfield, headway 2 out, led narrowly before last, ridden clear final 110yds, winning  readily by 3 ½ l. He gets 35 points.

In the 2m premier handicap chase Unexpected Party (Martin, Neil), went to post, Prominent on outer, went second 6th, briefly disputed lead 4 out, led 3 out, faced challenges before 2 out, edged right run-in, ridden out winning by 2 ¼ l. He gets 23 points.

John Torpey Memorial Trophy

        March   Total

Peej    163.4             823.7

Steve   26.62         689.05         

Bob   81                 592.39

Cliff    78.24           586.11

Martin    74.4            511.79

Cod   62.5                489.1

Neil    88.02               465.93

Apologies to Bob who should have got 12 points for Fast or Slow in the Irish Gold Cup, now amended

Cheltenham Grand Slam

Peej    163.4

Neil 88.02

Bob   81

Cliff   78.24

Martin 74.4

Cod 35 

Steve 26.62

News

After the Mares Hurdle, Willie Mullins told the Punter, "I'll chat to Rich, but I imagine she'll (Lossiemouth) be trained for the Champion Hurdle next season," "I'm hoping she'll go to Punchestown next but we'll see."

A late setback has ruled Dysart Enos out of the Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle on day three of the Cheltenham Festival. O’Brien said: “It’s a huge blow, she’s got an overreach unfortunately.

“It’s not serious, it’s just horrendous timing. If it had happened earlier we might have been able to do something about it, but that’s where we are. We’ll get her right before we make any plans.”

Weekend Entries

Friday 

Cheltenham

2.50 Captain Teague

3.30 Galopin Des Champs, Fast Or Slow, Gerri Colombe,  L’Homme Presse, Hewick, Bravemansgame, Gentlemansgame, 

Saturday  

Uttoxeter

1.15 Masaccio

2.25 Masaccio

3.00 Iron Bridge

4.45 Captain Bellamy

Kempton

2.45 Le Patron

Thurles

2.30 Mister Policeman

Sunday  

Down Royal 

2.52Maimie’s Magic

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

Leg 10 Steve

Leg 11  Steve

Leg 12  Cliff

Leg 13  Neil

Leg 14 Cliff

Leg 15 Bob

Leg 16 Bob

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

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

2023/24 Jumps - Cheltenham Grand Slam picks

Peej - Liari

Bob - Embassy Gardens

Cliff - Fact To File

Steve - Sir Gino

Neil - Il Etait Temps

Cod - Quilixious

2023/24 Jumps - Ed's Cheltenham Chances (Alphabetical)

Ballyburn has entries the Supreme and Baring Bingham novice hurdles and is a 5 * in both.

Bill Baxter is in the Plate and Fulke Walwyn handicap chases, he has been disappointing but will be off a dropping handicap mark 2*

Botox Has is in the stayers hurdle, he struggles at grade 1 level 2 *

Bravemansgame is in the Gold Cup, he has had some hard races this season, and is yet to win, and whilst Paul Nicholls is confident, I think a place is the best he can do 3*

Brighterdaysahead  is in the Supreme, Mares Hurdle, Baring Bingham and Mares novice hurdle. She has rather gone under the radar with the attention on Ballyburn and recently Tullyhill. She gets 7lb in the open novice events, and will have a first class chance 5* in the mare’s events against Lossiemouth 4*

Captain Teague is in the Baring Bingham and Albert Bartlett novice hurdles, he has been kept for Cheltenham and should run a big race in either 4*

Chianti Classico, is due to go in the Ultima nd holds a decent chance, 4*

Dr Eggman is in the Baring Bingham and Albert Bartlett novice hurdles, he has run well in 2nd on his last 2 runs and has place claims again 3*

Dysart Eynos Still unbeaten and in the Supreme and Mare’s novice hurdle, she should go well in which ever turns up in 4*

Edwardstone is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air. Whilst he didn’t beat a great deal last time his 40 l romp had Alan King purring after. 7/1 for the Champion Chase is a good bet 5*\

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the bset jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Famous Bridge is in the Ultima and Fulke Walwyn chases, he has disappointed recently 3*

Fastorslow is in the Ryan Air and Gold Cup. He would 5* in the Ryan Air 4* in the Gold Cup

Favour and  Fortune, is in the Supreme and County hurdle. He is useful and off10-10 in the County hurdle would be a 4* Alan King reports him in excellent form,In the Supreme 3*

Gaelic Warrior, unsated last time but is high class and holds entries the 3 novice chases. 4*

Galopin Des Champs is the Gold Cup Favourite, this is a deep Gold Cup and he is probably justified as market leader but is no shoe in 4*

Gentlemansgame is in the Gold Cup, he won the Charlie hall in November but has not been out since . He is reported in good form but the absence is a worry 3*

Gerri Colombe, is going to the Gold Cup fresher than a few, I like his chance 4*

Giovinco, is in the Ultima, Brown Adviosry novice and Turners novice chase. His jumping has not filled me with confidence 3*

Grey Dawning is in the Turners and Brown’s Advisory Novice Chase, has looked progressive and is a live 5*in the Turners which looks his ideal distance

Hewick is in the Gold Cup, he won the King George last time out and whilst he may have been a bit fortunate, would not have been far away. He fell last year but a clear round could take him close 4*

Irish Point, is in the Champion and Stayers Hurdle, Unbeaten this season, he holds a serious chance in both 4*

Iroko is in the Turners novice chase, he is potentially very smart and won easily on his chasing debut in November. His absence since is the concern so 3* but could run a big race

Iron Bridge , is in the Ultima off 10-9 and holds a decent chance 4*

Jeriko Du Reponet is in the Supreme and whilst still unbeaten will probably find one or two better 4*

Jonbon is in the Champion Chase, his last 2 runs have not been great 3*

Kitty’s Light is sin the Ultima off 11-1, this will be a sharpner for the National if he goes 3*

L’Homme Presse, another live Gold Cup contender, he has perhaps been rather over looked, but I expect him to make the frame 4*

Langer Dan is in the County and Martin Pipe hurdles. He has shown nothing so far this season and to see him as 2nd favourite in the County, even though he runs well at Cheltenham is a surprise 3*

Le Patron is in the Turners novice chase, Gary Moore was not keen on going here but other targets have been washed out, he was disappointing last time but had looked decent previously 3*

Letsbeclearaboutit is in the Plate handicap chase, has been consistent without winning, as a result is probably in the handicappers grip 3*but could well make the frame

Lookaway is in the Supreme and Baring Bingham, he has rather lost his way lately 2 *

Lossiemouth is in the Champion and Mares Hurdle. She would get 7lb from State Man in thee Champion and could go close, 4* in the Mares she is 5*

Love Envoi, is in the Champion and mares hurdle and will find some to good in both 3*

Luccia, is in the Champion and County Hurdles, She won an Ascot Handicap last time and off 11-3 in the County is an ew play 4* In the Champion 2*

Marie’s Rock, is in the Mares Hurdle, she is tough and will go well but hard to see her beating Lossiemouth 4*

Noble Yeats is in the stayers hurdle, he won at Cheltenham in January, has class and stamina 4*

Nemean Lion, goes for the Champion hurdle on the back of his grade 2 win at Wincanton, he is improving and could well make the frame at a big price 3*

Protektorat is in the Ryan Air and Gold Cup, he always runs his race but struggles to win at grade 1 level 2*

Shishkin is in the Gold Cup, he may have won the King George if he hadn’t tripped up, but 3m 2 worries me and I think he would have been better in the Ryan Air 3*

Sire Du Berlais, is in the stayers hurdle, won it last year but only 1 disappointing outing this season, 2*

Stage Star is in the Ryan Air, he had looked progressive but was pulled up at Cheltenham in January so has only completed once this season, 3*

State Man ,Champion Hurdle now long odds on and hard to see him being beaten 5*

Stay Away Fay, is in the Brown Advisory novice chase and has solid claims 4*

Teauphoo is favourite for the stayers hurdle, has only been seen once this season winning over 2m 4f at Fairyhouse, he doesn’t strike me as favourite 3*

Trelawne, is in the Ultima, Fulke Walwyn and Browns nvice chase, He has run ok this season but I expected better, solid place claims 3*

Under Control is in the Champion, Mares and County hurdle. She shaped ok at Doncaster last time and in the County off 11-3 is a 4* In the Mares 3* and Champion 2 *

Unexpected Party is in the Grand Annual, Turner’s Novice and Plate Handicap chase and it will be just that if he wins after a disappointing Season, 2*

Youwearitwell, is in the mares hurdle, she has not really fired this season 3*

2023/24 Jumps - The Ed's Five and Four Star Cheltenham chances

Five Star

Ballyburn has entries the Supreme and Baring Bingham novice hurdles and is a 5 * in both.

Brighterdaysahead  is in the Supreme, Mares Hurdle, Baring Bingham and Mares novice hurdle. She has rather gone under the radar with the attention on Ballyburn and recently Tullyhill. She gets 7lb in the open novice events, and will have a first class chance 5*

Edwardstone is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air. Whilst he didn’t beat a great deal last time his 40 l romp had Alan King purring after. 7/1 for the Champion Chase is a good bet 5*

Fastorslow is in the Ryan Air and Gold Cup. He would 5* in the Ryan Air

Grey Dawning is in the Turners and Brown’s Advisory Novice Chase, has looked progressive and is a live 5*in the Turners which looks his ideal distance

Lossiemouth is in the Champion and Mares Hurdle. In the Mares she is 5*

State Man ,Champion Hurdle now long odds on and hard to see him being beaten 5*

Four Star

Brighterdaysahead  is in the Supreme, Mares Hurdle, Baring Bingham and Mares novice hurdle. She has rather gone under the radar with the attention on Ballyburn and recently Tullyhill. Against Lossiemouth 4*

Captain Teague is in the Baring Bingham and Albert Bartlett novice hurdles, he has been kept for Cheltenham and should run a big race in either 4*

Chianti Classico, is due to go in the Ultima and holds a decent chance, 4*

Dysart Eynos Still unbeaten and in the Supreme and Mare’s novice hurdle, she should go well in which ever turns up in 4*

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the bset jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Fast or Slow is in the Ryan Air and Gold Cup.  4* in the Gold Cup

Favour and  Fortune, is in the Supreme and County hurdle. He is useful and off10-10 in the County hurdle would be a 4*

Gaelic Warrior, unseated last time but is high class and holds entries the 3 novice chases. 4*

Galopin Des Champs is the Gold Cup Favourite, this is a deep Gold Cup and he is probably justified as market leader but is no shoe in 4*

Gerri Colombe, is going to the Gold Cup fresher than a few, I like his chance 4*

Hewick is in the Gold Cup, he won the King George last time out and whilst he may have been a bit fortunate, would not have been far away. He fell last year but a clear round could take him close 4*

Irish Point, is in the Champion and Stayers Hurdle, Unbeaten this season, he holds a serious chance in both 4*

Iron Bridge , is in the Ultima off 10-9 and holds a decent chance 4*

Jeriko Du Reponet is in the Supreme and whilst still unbeaten will probably find one or two better 4*

L’Homme Presse, another live Gold Cup contender, he has perhaps been rather over looked, but I expect him to make the frame 4*

Lossiemouth is in the Champion and Mares Hurdle. She would get 7lb from State Man in thee Champion and could go close, 4*

Luccia, is in the Champion and County Hurdles, She won an Ascot Handicap last time and off 11-3 in the County is an ew play 4*

Marie’s Rock, is in the Mares Hurdle, she is tough and will go well but hard to see her beating Lossiemouth 4*

Noble Yeats is in the stayers hurdle, he won at Cheltenham in January, has class and stamina 4*

Stay Away Fay, is in the Brown Advisory novice chase and has solid claims 4*

Under Control is in the Champion, Mares and County hurdle. She shaped ok at Doncaster last time and in the County off 11-3 is a 4* 

2023/24 Jumps Issue 17 - The Ed's Festival preview

Strings Cheltenham Chances

Peej

Ballyburn has entries the Supreme and Baring Bingham novice hurdles and is a 5 * in both.

Chianti Classico, is due to go in the Ultima nd holds a decent chance, 4*

State Man ,Champion Hurdle now long odds on and hard to see him being beaten 5*

Love Envoi, is in the Champion and mares hurdle and will find some to good in both 3*

Dr Eggman is in the Baring Bingham and Albert Bartlett novice hurdles, he has run well in 2nd on his last 2 runs and has place claims again 3*

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the bset jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Iroko is in the Turners novice chase, he is potentially very smart and won easily on his chasing debut in November. His absence since is the concern so 3* but could run a big race

Stage Star is in the Ryan Air, he had looked progressive but was pulled up at Cheltenham in January so has only completed once this season, 3*

Protektorat is in the Ryan Air and Gold Cup, he always runs his race but struggles to win at grade 1 level 2*

Teauphoo is favourite for the stayers hurdle, has only been seen once this season winning over 2m 4f at Fairyhouse, he doesn’t strike me as favourite 3*

Galopin Des Champs is the Gold Cup Favourite, this is a deep Gold Cup and he is probably justified as market leader but is no shoe in 4*

Steve

Jeriko Du Reponet is in the Supreme and whilst still unbeaten will probably find one or two better 4*

Trelawne, is in the Ultima, Fulke Walwyn and Browns nvice chase, He has run ok this season but I expected better, solid place claims 3*

Under Control is in the Champion, Mares and County hurdle. She shaped ok at Doncaster last time and in the County off 11-3 is a 4* In the Mares 3* and Champion 2 *

Marie’s Rock, is in the Mares Hurdle, she is tough and will go well but hard to see her beating Lossiemouth 4*

Captain Teague is in the Baring Bingham and Albert Bartlett novice hurdles, he has been kept for Cheltenham and should run a big race in either 4*

Stay Away Fay, is in the Brown Advisory novice chase and has solid claims 4*

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the bset jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Jonbon is in the Champion Chase, his last 2 runs have not been great 3*

Grey Dawning is in the Turners and Brown’s Advisory Novice Chase, has looked progressive and is a live 5*in the Turners which looks his ideal distance

Stage Star is in the Ryan Air, he had looked progressive but was pulled up at Cheltenham in January so has only completed once this season, 3*

Shishkin is in the Gold Cup, he may have won the King George if he hadn’t tripped up, but 3m 2 worries me and I think he would have been better in the Ryan Air 3*

Bravemansgame is in the Gold Cup, he has had some hard races this season, and is yet to win, and whilst Paul Nicholls is confident, I think a place is the best he can do 3*

Bob

Brighterdaysahead  is in the Supreme, Mares Hurdle, Baring Bingham and Mares novice hurdle. She has rather gone under the radar with the attention on Ballyburn and recently Tullyhill. She gets 7lb in the open novice events, and will have a first class chance 5* in the mare’s events against Lossiemouth 4*

Gaelic Warrior, unsated last time but is high class and holds entries the 3 novice chases. 4*

Lookaway is in the Supreme and Baring Bingham, he has rather lost his way lately 2 *

Giovinco, is in the Ultima, Brown Adviosry novice and Turners novice chase. His jumping has not filled me with confidence 3*

Nemean Lion, goes for the Champion hurdle on the back of his grade 2 win at Wincanton, he is improving and could well make the frame at a big price 3*

Captain Teague is in the Baring Bingham and Albert Bartlett novice hurdles, he has been kept for Cheltenham and should run a big race in either 4*

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the bset jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Iroko is in the Turners novice chase, he is potentially very smart and won easily on his chasing debut in November. His absence since is the concern so 3* but could run a big race

Fast or Slow is in the Ryan Air and Gold Cup. He would 5* in the Ryan Air 4* in the Gold Cup

Gerri Colombe, is going to the Gold Cup fresher than a few, I like his chance 4*

Gentlemansgame is in the Gold Cup, he won the Charlie hall in November but has not been out since . He is reported in good form but the absence is a worry 3*

Martin

 Dysart Eynos Still unbeaten and in the Supreme and Mare’s novice hurdle, she should go well in which ever turns up in 4*

Favour and  Fortune, is in the Supreme and County hurdle. He is useful and off10-10 in the County hurdle would be a 4* Alan King reports him in excellent form,In the Supreme 3*

State Man ,Champion Hurdle now long odds on and hard to see him being beaten 5*

Luccia, is in the Champion and County Hurdles, She won an Ascot Handicap last time and off 11-3 in the County is an ew play 4* In the Champion 2*

Youwearitwell, is in the mares hurdle, she has not really fired this season 3*

Stay Away Fay, is in the Brown Advisory novice chase and has solid claims 4*

Jonbon is in the Champion Chase, his last 2 runs have not been great 3*

Edwardstone is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air. Whilst he didn’t beat a great deal last time his 40 l romp had Alan King purring after. 7/1 for the Champion Chase is a good bet 5*

Unexpected Party is in the Grand Annual, Turner’s Novice and Plate Handicap chase and it will be just that if he wins after a disappointing Season, 2*

Letsbeclearaboutit is in the Plate handicap chase, has been consistent without winning, as a result is probably in the handicappers grip 3*but could well make the frame

Gerri Colombe, is going to the Gold Cup fresher than a few, I like his chance 4*

L’Homme Presse, another live Gold Cup contender, he has perhaps been rather over looked, but I expect him to make the frame 4*

Cod

Kitty’s Light is sin the Ultima off 11-1, this will be a sharpner for the National if he goes 3*

Langer Dan is in the County and Martin Pipe hurdles. He has shown nothing so far this season and to see him as 2nd favourite in the County, even though he runs well at Cheltenham is a surprise 3*

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the best jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Noble Yeats is in the stayers hurdle, he won at Cheltenham in January, has class and stamina 4*

Sire Du Berlais, is in the stayers hurdle, won it last year but only 1 disappointing outing this season, 2*

Galopin Des Champs is the Gold Cup Favourite, this is a deep Gold Cup and he is probably justified as market leader but is no shoe in 4*

Hewick is in the Gold Cup, he won the King George last time out and whilst he may have been a bit fortunate, would not have been far away. He fell last year but a clear round could take him close 4*

Neil

Irish Point, is in the Champion and Stayers Hurdle, Unbeaten this season, he holds a serious chance in both 4*

Lossiemouth is in the Champion and Mares Hurdle. She would get 7lb from State Man in thee Champion and could go close, 4* in the Mares she is 5*

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the beet jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Unexpected Party is in the Grand Annual, Turner’s Novice and Plate Handicap chase and it will be just that if he wins after a disappointing Season, 2*

Bill Baxter is in the Plate and Fulke Walwyn handicap chases, he has been disappointing but will be off a dropping handicap mark 2*

Galopin Des Champs is the Gold Cup Favourite, this is a deep Gold Cup and he is probably justified as market leader but is no shoe in 4*

Shishkin is in the Gold Cup, he may have won the King George if he hadn’t tripped up, but 3m 2 worries me and I think he would have been better in the Ryan Air 3*

Gerri Colombe, is going to the Gold Cup fresher than a few, I like his chance 4*

Bravemansgame is in the Gold Cup, he has had some hard races this season, and is yet to win, and whilst Paul Nicholls is confident, I think a place is the best he can do 3*

Cliff

Giovinco, is in the Ultima, Brown Adviosry novice and Turners novice chase. His jumping has not filled me with confidence 3*

Famous Bridge is in the Ultima and Fulke Walwyn chases, he has disappointed recently 3*

Iron Bridge , is in the Ultima off 10-9 and holds a decent chance 4*

Youwearitwell, is in the mares hurdle, she has not really fired this season 3*

Captain Teague is in the Baring Bingham and Albert Bartlett novice hurdles, he has been kept for Cheltenham and should run a big race in either 4*

El Fabiolo, is in the Champion Chase and Ryan Air, he is likely to go Champion Chase, but is not the best jumper and at odds on is a swerve for me 4*

Le Patron is in the Turners novice chase, Gary Moore was not keen on going here but other targets have been washed out, he was disappointing last time but had looked decent previously 3*

Botox Has is in the stayers hurdle, he struggles at grade 1 level 2 *

Shishkin is in the Gold Cup, he may have won the King George if he hadn’t tripped up, but 3m 2 worries me and I think he would have been better in the Ryan Air 3*

Gerri Colombe, is going to the Gold Cup fresher than a few, I like his chance 4*

L’Homme Presse, another live Gold Cup contender, he has perhaps been rather over looked, but I expect him to make the frame 4*

John Torpey Memorial Trophy

        March   Total

Steve   00             662.43         

Peej    00               660.3

Cliff    00             507.87

Bob   00                 499.39

Martin    00              460.39

Cod   00                  426.6

Neil    00                 377.91

News

Cheltenham Grand Slam

1 horse not currently in a string, entries to me by close Sunday 10 March

Constitution Hill was ruled out of the Champion Hurdle by his trainer Nicky Henderson on Maonday. 

The participation of last year's emphatic winner has been in serious doubt since mucus was found in his scope after he trailed home well behind two stablemates in his final serious bit of work before the defence of his Champion Hurdle title at Kempton last Tuesday. 

A subsequent blood test showed a "significant degree of inflammation" last week suggesting he was "definitely under the weather" in his trainer's words. Constitution Hill was scoped again after light exercise on Friday and showed no signs of mucus and a reduction in neutrophil [a type of white blood cell] levels but Henderson warned Michael Buckley's star hurdler would need to show "miraculous" improvement in his repeat blood test on Monday if he were to run at the festival.

While showing some signs of improvement, the results highlighted that he had yet to fully recover and Henderson was forced to rule him out of the festival. "Very sadly, we are going to have to admit defeat in the battle to get Constitution Hill ready for the Champion Hurdle and therefore have to declare that he will not be running there this year," said Henderson in a statement on Monday.  

Marine Nationale is also out with an injury

Gentlemansgame may have become the forgotten horse of the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup but rider Darragh O'Keeffe said it is worth remembering the unexposed grey is trained by a master in Mouse Morris, who will have him primed to perfection for the biggest test of his career next week. 

O'Keeffe will be riding in the Gold Cup for the first time and although Gentlemansgame hasn't been seen since he won the Charlie Hall on the first Saturday of November, his preparation could not be going any better according to the 24-year-old jockey. 

Weekend Entries

Friday 

Exeter

3.10 General Medrano, DR T J Eckleburg

Saturday  

Sandown

3.35 Nickle Back, Dr T J Eckleburg

Ayr 

1.58 Maimie’s Magic

Sunday  

Naas

2.17 Mirazur West

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

Leg 10 Steve

Leg 11  Steve

Leg 12  Cliff

Leg 13  Neil

Leg 14 Cliff

Leg   15 Bob

Leg 16 Bob

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

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

2022/23 Jumps Issue 18 - Festival preview

Headline

Night shows Plenty of Life at Doncaster

Report

We start at Doncaster on Friday where in the 2m 3f mares novice hurdle Ilovethenightlife (Cliff), took her chance, Prominent, pushed along when carried left before 2 out, soon went second, challenging last, ridden to lead run-in, stayed on , winning by ¾ l . She gets 26 points

The John Torpey Memorial Trophy

          March       Total

Peej      00              873.66

Steve      00                 740.39

Neil        00              688.05

Martin     00               516.79      

Bob          00               493.25

Cod       00            362.8

Cliff        26            318.16

Congratulations to Peej who was February trainer of the month

The Punter View Cheltenham 2023

Day 1

Supreme Novice Hurdle  

The last 5 running’s have gone to Ireland, and each winner had won on its last outing.

Punter Entries - American Mike, Facile Vega, High Definition 

Facile Vega heads the market but his 5th at Leopardstown last time out beaten 20 l, leaves him with a question to answer, High Definition unseated in the race and American Mike has been very disappointing this season. Il Etait Temps comes out best on ratings for Willie Mullins and he certainly sees him as a big player and at 6/1 makes most appeal as the winner. Tahmuras, a 10/1 shot has solid claims. Unbeaten in his last 3 runs, and won a grade 1 at Sandown last time, is a solid each way bet.

Arkle Novice Chase 

Punter Entries - Jonbon

Jonbon  remains unbeaten over fences, and holds a major chance. Having won his first 2 novice chases, 

However El Fabiolo, who has won his 2 chasers by a total of 29l looks a big player and it is hard to choose between him and Jonbon. I just lean towards  Jonbon, whose win last time at Warwick was boosted by Calico’s win at the weekend

Ultima Handicap Chase

A rarity these days, the British have won the last 5 runings.

Punter Entries - Happygolucky

Happygolucky has ran well on his reappearance , finishing 4l behind L’Homme Presse (gave 13 lb ) in a 3m handicap. 2m 4f was to short for him last time at Cheltenham, and 11-7 is not unreasonable and gives him an each way chance.Corach Rambler won this last year and looks to have been laid out for this again, but is a fair bit higher in the weights and as 7/1 favourite, others appeal more.

A little each way play on Happygolucky 12/1

Champion Hurdle 

Punter Entries - Constitution Hill, State Man, Vauban, Honeysuckle, Iliketomoveit, Epatante, First Street, Pied Piper.

It is hard to oppose Constitution Hill, and in what is likely to end up a small field there is little value elsewhere, but Iliketomoveit was impressive at Wincanton, and could be one for the forecast.

Vauban is held by State Man, having finished behind him twice this season. State Man holds Honeysuckle on latest run, Epatante won a weak event last time out, and is well held by Constitution Hill.  

First Street is hard to fancy and needs to improve a few streets, and Pied Piper is well held by State man on last 2 outings.

Mares Hurdle 

Punter Entries - Honeysuckle, Maries Rock, Epatante

Whilst Honeysuckle has not quite hit the heights of previous seasons, she has not run that badly in grade 1’s and still sets the bar here. However Maries Rock is a big player, She has won her last 4 starts, last time over course and distance, beating Dashel Drasher 9gave 1 lb) 6l in a grade 2 hurdle.  Epatante will also be a player if taking her chance, but has never beaten Honeysuckle and was beaten by Maries Rock over 2m 3f at Punchestown last April. Others to Consider are Love Envoi, who has only been beaten once in 8 starts, that was a 2nd at Fairyhouse when 8l behind Brandy Love in a 2m 4f grade 1. However she has not run since January . Queens Brook at 9/1 is the one that makes each way appeal, but I would just stay with Honeysuckle to win.

National Hunt Challenge Cup Novice Chase 

Punter Entries - Galliard Du Mesnil, 

Galliard Du Mesnil has won a grade 1 and finished 3rd in another last time out, and that is stronger form than most in here. Also he has won over 3m 5f so the distance is not an issue.  He is a worthy favourite, though even money is not exactly tempting. 

Day 2

Ballymore Novice Hurdle 

The last 5 running’s have been won by the Irish, each winner had won it’s previous outing

Punter Entries - Facile Vega , Champ Kiely, American Mike

 

American Mike has been very disappointing and can be overlooked., Facile Vega is Supreme bound, so Champ Kiely is the only likely runner, and at 8/1 he looks cracking each way value. Course and distance winner and Hermes Allen gives the Bits a great chance and I will side with him to win it.

Brown Advisory Novice Chase 

Punter Entries - Sir Gerhard, Thyme Hill, Galliard du Mensil, Stage Star

Sir Gerhard has yet to run beyond 2m 5f so is unlikely to run here, Galliard du Mesnil, has only 1 win from 7 over fences, that was at Leopardstown in December, a weak grade 1 novice chase , and others make more appeal. Stage Star , all wins over 2m4f over fences. The market is headed by Gerri Colombe, who won well at Sandown last time, and Mighty Potter, who is unbeaten over fences, but both have yet to go beyond 2m 5f.  Thyme Hill is the forgotten horse, but is 2/3 over fences and his defeat was a 6 ½ l 2nd to McFabulous at Newbury where he gave 3lb. He is a serious player here and at the prices would be my choice.

Coral Handicap Hurdle 

Punter Entries - American Mike, Langer Dan,  Will Carver, Pull Again Green Sporting John

American Mike has been very disappointing this season and is hard to make a case for. Sporting John has also disappointed this season and off 11-13 is hard to fancy. Langer Dan has also been disappointing, but he comes good at this time of year and off 11-3 could well make the frame.  Will Carver is some thing of an unknown, but comes from a stable that can capitalise with this sort. He made a decent come back after a lengthy absence when finishing 3rd at Kempton recently, giving 5 and 10 lb to the first 2. He only has 10-4, which probably means he won’t get in, but would be very interesting if he gets a run. Pull Again Green, has had 2 runs over fences this season, but won his last hurdle race by 4 ½ l over 2m 5, and off just 10-10 at 25/1 is a good each way play. The one I like is Irish Hill, having won 3 on the bounce he gets in off 10-10 looks a great each way bet at 14/1..

Queen Mother Champion Chase 

Punter Entries - Energumene, Edwardstone, Greaneteen, Gentlemen De Mee

Gentlemen De Mee has a lot to find with Edwardstone on Sandown running, Energumene is not totally reliable, Greaneteen tends to better at Sandown, so I side with Edwardstone here.

Cross Country Chase 

Punter Entries - Galvin

I can’t see Galvin running in this, whilst he would be the classiest on current form, he has no experience in these races, and has yet to go beyond 3 miles, but he has been left in at the 5 day stage. Delta Work is my selection to win again here, and then take the Grand National. 

Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup 

Punter Entries - Third Time Lucki

Third Time Lucki is a decent sort and showed the benefit of a wind op when winning at Sandown last time out, he is a major player, a course and distance winner and should make the frame at least, and I think 11/1 is good value. Another old favourite Elixir De Nutz should also go well at 16/1. 

Day 3

Turners novice chase 

Punter Entries - Appreciate It, Sir Gerhard, Stage Star, Datsalrightgino, McFabulous

Sir Gerhard has a victory over 2m 5f at Cheltenham last season in a hurdle, so will stay, inexperience over fences is a bit of an issue, but he is classy enough to win this with a clear round. Stage Star has winning course and distance form last time out, and with more experience, would be my choice, as he has beaten Datsalrightgino already. McFabulous is very unreliable, but very good on his day. He should make the frame if he  has a good day.

RyanAir Chase 

Punter Entries - Shiskin, Conflated, Fakir D’Oudairies, Hitman

With Allaho out, Shishkin is even money favourite for this on the back of his 16l win from  Pic D’Orhy  at Ascot recently, with Fakir D’Oudairies back in 3rd. Conflated is till something of a unknown quantity, but his Leopardstown grade 1 win has been franked by Kemboy, and if he did turn up here, would be a major player. Fakir D’Oudairies had no obviuous excuse at Ascot, but I feel he is a bit better than that and still holds solid place claims. Hitman hits a lot of fences, and has a lot to find.

Stayers Hurdle  

Punter Entries - Blazing Khal, Maries Rock, Flooring Porter, Sir Gerhard, Buzz, Hewick, Langer Dan

Blazing Khal, last years Albert Bartlett winner was not seen out until 12 February, when he won a 2m 5f grade 2 hurdle by 3l. He is favourite on the back of that , but sustained an injury, and is a doubt for this and with doubts over Flooring Porter , the race is wide open.  Maries Rock has yet to run over 3m but does get the mares allowance, Sir Gerhard was a point winner over 3miles, and is probably the classiest in here, but I doubt him tasking this option. Buzz is not running, Hewick is interesting as he won a 2m 5f grade 1 in Far Hills (USA), last time out, and at 33/1 is a great each way bet. Langer Dan looks out classed here, and I think the most sensible bet is Paisley Park each way at 14/1.

Plate Handicap Chase 

Punter Entries - Stage Star, Datsalrightgino, Hitman, Coole Cody, Two For Gold

Hitman has 12-0, and that alone probably rules him out of winning this. However he is remarkably consistent for one who does not jump brilliantly but always seems to get round and generally make the frame. Course and distance winner Stage Star is still improving, 11-7 is enough but he is classy and should go well, solid place claims. Datsalrightgino is a solid performer and off 11-0 is a player for the frame at least.  Coole Cody has disappointed this season, but off just 10-12 on decent ground, if returning to his best could run these ragged. At 20/1 he is a great each way shout. Two for Gold is classy and 11-11 shows that. He has only a 5th in a Aintree handicap this season, beaten 21 l and is hard to fancy.

Kim Muir Challenge Cup Handicap 

Punter Entries - Iron Bridge

not certain to take up any of his entries according to Jon Jo, but if he took this one up he would be a player. A sound jumper and stayer he would hold solid place claims at least off 11-6.

Day 4 

Triumph Hurdle  

Punter Entries - Bo Zenith, Lossiemouth, Scriptwriter

Scriptwriter jumped so poorly at Kempton last time it is hard to see him coping with the hurly burly of this. Lossiemouth , was a bit unlucky at Leopardstown when 2nd last time out. She had previously won her 2 starts impressively and was put up by Rich Ricci at the start of the season as a very exciting novice. She gets the 5lb mares allowance and will be hard to beat. Bo Zenith, also highly regarded by Gary Moore, has done nothing wrong, winning last time out at Haydock by  3 ½ l.  He is a solid alternative to the favourite, and certainly has solid place claims

County Handicap Hurdle 

Punter Entries - Pied Piper, First Street, Hacker Des Places, Jungle Jack, Soaring Glory

Hacker Des Places has the sort of profile for this, still very much on the upgrade, and his win at Cheltenham last time is another tick. 10-12 is a nice mark, and has strong each way claims.

Soaring Glory ran ok when 5th at Newbury in a handicap, giving at least a stone to the field, and would have place claims off 11-0. Pied Piper has run in grade 1’s the last twice, last time was just 6 ½ l behind State Man. That probably ruined his handicap mark, he has 11-11 and I can’t see him calling the tune here.

First Street has 2 solid placed efforts to his credit, but 11-9 looks to much for what he has achieved. 

Jungle Jack was disappointing last time , and is hard to fancy in this class and off just 10- 3 is unlikely to get in any way.

Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle 

Punter Entries - American Mike, Saint Palais

We have a significant number of disappointing horses across the Punter strings this season and these are two of them, and it is hard to see either making any impression here. Hermes Allen has been impressive in winning 3 on the bounce and is probably Paul Nicholls best chance of a winner this week, and gets the punter nod.

Gold Cup 

Punter Entries - Galopin Des Champs, A Plus Tard, Bravemansgame,  Noble Yeats,  Conflated, Hewick, Capodano, Eldorado Allen, Coole Cody

Galopin Des Champs and Bravemansgame head the market, and I find it hard to chose between them. 

Stamina may be the tipping point and Galopin Des champs has yet to race beyond 3 miles whilst Bravemansgame has won over 3m 1 f so I edge that way. A Plus Tard is an unknown quantity this time round, but if any where near his best, will go close. Noble Yeats has had a solid season and could sneak in to the frame. Hewick has not been seen since winning the Grand National Hurdle stakes in Far Hills, USA in October and is hard to fancy.Conflated also holds solid claims , his win over Kemboy in the Savill’s chase  having been franked by the runner up recently, and at the prices, he will be where the Editors money goes. Protektorat looks out classed by a few of these, as does Capodano

Martin Pipe handicap hurdle

Punter Entries - American Mike, Langer Dan , Hacker  Des Places, Pull Again Green, Will Carver

 

Jockey bookings will be crucial in this, but at initial time of writing are unknown.

Langer Dan and Hacker Des Places both have 11-8. I would favour Hacker as he probably is still on the upgrade but Langer Dan runs well at this time of year and should not be discounted. Will Carver as previously mentioned is fascinating in this type of race 10-9 is very attractive and if he gets in would be a big fancy. Pull again Green is interesting off 11-1, and reverts to hurdles after 2 solid placed efforts over fences. He does have  a course and distance win over hurdles, and is one who could out run his odds.

News

Blazing Khal needs to come through a key piece of work on Friday to line up at Cheltenham.

The seven-year-old, a top-priced 11-4 on Monday for the Stayers’ Hurdle on March 16, has headed the market since winning the Boyne Hurdle at Navan last month, his first start in 14 months.However, he sustained a cut to the back of a fetlock during the success and was only recently able to return to full work having been on a course of antibiotics. 

Speaking on Monday, Byrnes said: "Unfortunately he got a bad cut in his Boyne Hurdle win and he was on antibiotics after. We couldn’t do much with him since and we're after stepping his work up now in the last week. We gave him a small bit of work at the Curragh this morning. It’s gone late in the day now so we'll see how he works on Friday and make a final decision.

 

Weekend Entries

Friday

Ayr 

2.00 Maimie’s Magic

Saturday 

Sandown

1.50 Crambo

2.25 Nickle Back, Soaring Glory

3.35 Skytastic

Ayr

1.35 Maimie’s Magic

2.10 Maimie’s Magic

3.20 Maimie’s Magic

Navan 

3.25 Capodano

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

Leg 10 Steve

Leg 11  Steve

Leg 12  Cliff