Friday 25th & Saturday 26th November 2022: Prosch to Bosh Them

This Saturday sees the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle take place at Newcastle, part of the hurdling Triple Crown and now featuring the exciting Constitution Hill.

He is long odds on for this and, as a word of caution; just about all modern winners of the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle who have remained over the smaller objects go backwards after winning that race. At least on the numbers and at least at first.

If he does that, the door could be open for Epatante who has done it all before including at Newcastle.

In any event, we begin our betting weekend on Friday at Newbury.

Friday 25th November 2022 

1.20 Newbury (Novices’ Hurdle) – RUSSIAN RULER

The official going description at Newbury is ‘good’ for Friday’s racing. Nobody has told Nicky Henderson that, clearly, as he still intends to run Russian Ruler among others.

In this novices’ hurdle the early favourite is Stay Away Fay. He won a point-to-point and has been sent to Paul Nicholls, but there’s very little to go on and what we have got doesn’t entitle him to be market leader.

That pushes Russian Ruler’s price out and he is the clear pick of those with experience over hurdles, so rates a bet on the grounds of value.

He is a winner and he was improving fast last season, being sent into Grade 2 company at one stage, and now he’s back after a break he may be tough to beat.

1.55 Newbury (Berkshire Novices’ Chase – Grade 2) – CAMPROND

When only glancing at this race you would, like many punters and the bookmakers, come to the conclusion that Stage Star is well clear and is not worth opposing. A closer look however reveals something a little different.

Paul Nicholls’ runner did win well on his chasing debut, beating West Cork by 13 lengths and he can go on from that too.

The level we expect him to reach is something around the 150-mark, which doesn’t make him unbeatable where rival Camprond is concerned.

Rated 147 over hurdles, he was second-favourite behind McFabulous on his chase debut, who won and is leaving his own 153 rating behind. He unshipped his rider at the first however. That’s not ideal, but he’s priced accordingly and it’s easy to see him getting to that 150 level or above, while his hurdle form also gives hope to him having superior pace around this track on good ground.

2.30 Newbury (Handicap Chase) – THE WIDOW MAKER

Market-wise this is a very tight handicap chase indeed and that’s something that also plays out in a lot of the numbers. Standing tall at the top of the rankings however for me is The Widow Maker and it may well be that he’s the outsider of the field.

The eight-year-old has a nice light weight to carry and is certainly better than his current handicap mark. Joe Tizzard’s horse wasn’t great on his seasonal debut, but that’s nothing to worry about at this stage.

At least he’s race fit now and before that he’d won at Exeter and finished third of six in a Grade 1 at Aintree no less. He has also shown the speed to win on good ground over two miles.

He gets the nod over Paint The Dream, Killer Clown, Caribean Boy and Beakstown though it is close in behind.

3.05 Newbury (Long Distance Hurdle – Grade 2) – PROSCHEMA 

This race could go a long way towards sorting out the pack in what looks like an open Stayers’ Hurdle race this season.

Champ is obviously quality and is second on my list, though I feel he is going ever so slightly backwards and at nearly eleven years old and making his seasonal debut, it may well be he really feels this.

Public horse Paisley Park is simply wonderful but is highly unlikely to reach his former heights on this ground, while a better bet for the forecast is perhaps Dashel Drasher.

Last year’s winner Thomas Darby is another to consider, but he was put in his place by Proschema in the West Yorkshire Hurdle last time and he shouldn’t be turning that form around.

I’ve always been a big believer in Proschema as a hurdler, and as a staying one he’s found his calling. He’s improving fast, has all the attributes needed for this event and can now announce himself as a real Stayers’ Hurdle contender with another Grade 2 win.

Saturday 27th November 2022

1.35 Newcastle (Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase) – SHANTOU LUCKY

A tight race, one that may take some getting if Newcastle do produce the proper jump racing ground that they’ve promised all week.

This is a three-miler for the novices’, one in which the Irish trained Shantou Lucky has travelled a good way to take part and he’s the best of them for me.

Based on his second at Perth behind Ubetya, allied with what was a sharp rate of progression at the time over fences, he could be pretty well handicapped in this sphere so gets the vote.

3.05 Newbury (Coral Gold Cup – Premier Handicap Chase) – REMASTERED

As always, the race formerly known as the Hennessy has attracted a very strong, very tight and very competitive field. There are all sorts of horses we could mention, but the focus should be on Remastered for betting purposes.

David Pipe’s nine-year-old, who is at a perfect stage of his career to take this on, ran in a hurdle race last year before falling when well placed to challenge in this race.

He was more impressive this time around in his hurdle prep, is a better animal now, and is very well in at the weights so can be backed at reasonable odds. Lord Accord, Le Milos and Threeunderthrufive were next on the list.

3.25 Newcastle (Rehearsal Handicap Chase – Premier Handicap) – INTO OVERDRIVE 

Representing last year’s form are Aye Right and Dingo Dollar, both horses also being race fit and in form.

Much of the talk will be about Grade 1 Cheltenham Festival winner L’Homme Presse, who missed his last engagement and comes here for better ground.

We’ve already seen Bravemansgame win the Charlie Hall and Protektorat win the Betfair, now it’s this fella’s chance to make a mark on the Cheltenham Gold Cup market.

At the weights however, I reckon Mark Walford’s Into Overdrive could be the one. The big improver in the race, the seven-year-old stays well and has won his last four chases. He may still be ahead of the handicapper.

Saturday 19th November 2022: Pro to Give It a Go in Betfair Chase

Constitution Hill makes his comeback this weekend in the Coral Hurdle which will be a fascinating watch, but watch is all we should do at the odds given.

Other Cheltenham hopefuls are also running, including returning heroes A Plus Tard and Edwardstone, with Haydock and Ascot sharing Saturday’s limelight.

As a sidenote; watch out for the betting and subsequent performances of Tagabawa and Isle Of Jura on Saturday evening at Wolverhampton, two New Approach colts making their debuts for Charlie Appleby.

12.10 Haydock (Newton Novices’ Hurdle – Listed Race) – SIZING POTTSIE

With Paul Nicholls in such rare form his Tahmuras may take centre stage in the betting, at least we hope he will. Harry Cobden’s ride won easily last time for sure, but his form isn’t exactly head and shoulders above.

Twinjets is interesting as is Snake Roll, but Sizing Potties is the most interesting runner in the field.

As an eight-year-old he has more experience than the others and he’s back in this sphere (and country) having gone chasing with Jessica Harrington.

On his return he was a very easy winner at Ayr which should have primed him to get back to his best form, a level that would be too good for the others if he can achieve it.

1.10 Lingfield (Fillies’ Handicap) – KIRILENKO

The bulk of this field is very hard to separate; Queen Of Burgundy, Granary Queen, Victoria Grove, Lady Eros, Night Battle and Thebeautifulgame all being in with place chances.

The standout is most definitely Kirilenko however, who appears to have been rather leniently treated by the handicapper.

As well as having a mark we think is a little light, Sir Michael Stoute’s filly has superior speed to the others, is well draw and has handled both quick turf and a Polytrack surface well. One last thing in her favour is the booking William Buick who flies straight back from Bahrain on Friday.

1.30 Ascot (Mares’ Handicap Hurdle) – TERRESITA

Four of the six runners in this field are relatively close together on form, something that is reflected in the overnight odds.

Coquelicot, Victoria’s Peak, Glimpse Of Gala and Terresita will all be on bet slips in a race that will knock out many a placepot coupon.

The mare that just sticks her head above the parapet however is Terresita. Aidan Coleman rides for Lucy Wadham on a mare who’s won three from seven on varying ground and who has the capacity to remain ahead of the handicapper.

2.05 Ascot (1965 Chase – Grade 2) – HITMAN

This race often proves to be very informative with chases of varying distances in the spring in mind; Wayward Lad, Red Marauder, Albertas Run, Master Minded, Al Ferof, Politologue and Cyrname having all won it.

This time around, we have a long odds-on favourite in the shape of L’Homme Presse and he has been very impressive to date.

His biggest rival is Paul Nicholls’ Hitman who is better than what he’s shown so far, and at the weights is about on a par with L’Homme Presse in these conditions.

The crucial factor is speed and I reckon he has more of it than L’Homme Presse, something that will be crucial in this race.

Hitman is entered at Haydock as well and that was to be his first preference, however there is a strong chance he will be rerouted here due to the weather and that could be a smart move.

2.25 Haydock (Stayers’ Handicap Hurdle – Premier Handicap) – COMPLETE UNKNOWN

This fourteen-runner handicap field is a close one at first glance, just as you’d expect for one of the bigger betting races of the month.

Both Wholestone and Good Risk It All are high on the list after their race at Carlisle late last month, while Brinkley can also go well. Most of the money has been for Might I who also has a place chance.

The one to be on at the odds however is Complete Unknown. Paul Nicholls is in great form and his terrific season can continue in this valuable race.

Complete Unknown has low mileage and is improving. He is ready to head back up to this three-mile trip, but the most crucial point is that he has shown the most toe in genuinely soft ground which will count for a lot with the forecast the way it is.

3.00 Haydock (Betfair Chase – Grade 1) – PROTEKTORAT

Backing anything in this field against last year’s winner and Gold Cup hero A Plus Tard requires Henry De Bromhead’s star to underperform.

That remains entirely possible however and he is still long odds-on at the time of writing, creating opportunities elsewhere.

It was thought during the week that he may not run if the ground gets too soft and the rain has in fact arrived. His performance may yet still be good enough, but it’s likely to be some way behind his Gold Cup winning level which opens the door for Protektorat who should love underfoot conditions.

3.15 Ascot (Hurst Park Handicap Chase) – THYME HILL

Thyme Hill is properly on track in his chasing career now after winning a good race over course and distance three weeks ago.

He won that with more authority than the distance suggests, his overall profile being sufficiently upward in its trajectory for punters to be able to go in with confidence again.

His main rival is probably Boothill, though Thyme Hill has more speed, while Third Time Lucki, So Scottish and Arkle winner Edwardstone were all considered too.

3.35 Haydock (Handicap Chase) – FONTAINE COLLONGES

At around 5/1 at the time of writing, Venetia Williams’ seven-year-old Fontaine Collonges looks good value in these tough conditions to continue what was some sharp progression and win her seasonal debut.

She’s been off the track a while but should be OK to go now, she gets through this sort of ground very well and there’s lots in her profile to suggest she is very well handicapped.

She can get the better of Houston Texas who is another moving up the ranks, while in behind Lord Du Mesnil and JP McManus’s Easysland and Musical Slave may be battling on.

Saturday 12th November 2022 - Boilshoi Ballet to Dance All Over Them

The main focus this weekend is Cheltenham’s November Meeting and there some nice opportunities there. It’s Paddy Power Gold Cup Day which is huge business, but here we concentrate on matters elsewhere round the country.

Lingfield hosts a good Flat card featuring a valuable handicap and two Listed races, all of which we’re involved in, while up at Wetherby over the jumps there is also some fine action.

We have three selections from each track on Saturday beginning with a novice event in Yorkshire.

12.43 Wetherby (Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase) – MORIKO DE VASSY 

Having been considered a potential graded horse over hurdles not long ago, should Moriko De Vassy jump well enough on his chasing debut then it would seem he’d have a little in hand on the handicap.

Daryl Jacob’s mount will be loving conditions at the Yorkshire track and is very good value in what is a small field, with Notlingtillmay also capable while Zacony Rebel and Minella Plus may vie for favouritism.

1.18 Wetherby (Handicap Hurdle) – ONAGATHERINGSTORM

Cheltenham trainer Fergal O’Brien has sent Onagatheringstorm to Wetherby and he was also quick to book top man Brian Hughes for the ride. The combination may well be very popular but at the time of writing are surprisingly not favourites to win this event.

On his return after a wind op and a break (off since February), Onagatheringstorm should have finished second at Cheltenham in October but ran out of steam and dropped to third going up the hill. That still represents good form in truth.

He will be all the better for that run now and can beat not only that finish, but his past performances too which makes him a strong prospect in this event.

Rafferty’s Return provides some good opposition if he’s fit enough first time up this season, while young hurdler Iroko is of course of interest but at the moment he doesn’t look that well handicapped coming out of juvenile races, although time will naturally tell on that score.

2.00 Lingfield (Handicap) – MONTATHAM

Although it could be close between the three-year-old Tacarib Bay, Hafeet Alain, Excel Power and Montatham, the speed that the last-named horse is capable of could be the deciding factor on this track.

Already taken into account is the slight regression that is possible overall for Montatham’s form given his age, though it speaks volumes that during an era in which Shadwell have sold so many horses they chose to keep this one on at six years old and as a gelding too.

After a year off the track, William Haggas’ runner returned last month on softer than ideal ground and ran well enough, putting him spot-on for this task. He has the speed and the class to take this down and is value to do so.

2.28 Wetherby (Introductory Hurdle) – MATATA

This race is all about possibilities, progress and untapped potential so it would be unwise to try to base your selections too much on recent form of any kind.

Fruit N Nut’s form is best for what it’s worth, but he’s been away for over 400 days and won’t necessarily be better than some of the younger hurdlers he now comes up against.

One of those is four-year-old Matata and we have no idea what level he can reach. Bought by top connections after a taking point-to-point win, he led all the way on his hurdling debut four weeks ago and was never troubled at all.

The numbers tell us that it was a 7½-length win and we can guess at what handicap mark he’d be given but in reality, it was a light training session for him as we was never challenged at all and he’s capable of very much better.

He’s the one with the most potential so gets the vote at reasonable odds, ahead of the aforementioned Fruit N Nut.

2.35 Lingfield (Golden Rose Stakes – Listed Race) – LOGO HUNTER 

This isn’t the most valuable race you’ll see on the Flat, but it is a Listed event and also a fast-track qualifier for the very valuable All Weather Championships Finals at Newcastle next April.

Some of the main contenders here are rock-solid, but they are somewhat old timers now. There may not be a whole lot to choose from nowadays between Harry’s Bar, Summerghand and Judicial in fact but they’ll all have their supporters which should balance the betting market nicely.

The four-year-old Logo Hunter on the other hand is just getting going. One of his better performances was when he chased home the very good Manaccan last time over five furlongs at Dundalk and he’s on the up.

It seems on that and other evidence that he’ll stretch out much better over this extra furlong, so with the trip seen as ideal and the fact he is proven on Polytrack he has an obvious winning chance.

3.10 Lingfield (Churchill Stakes – Listed Race) – BOLSHOI BALLET

Another Listed race and another fast-track qualifier, this time over a mile and a quarter.

Of the two John & Thady Gosden horses I like Forest Of Dean more than Harrovian now he’s not penalised on the all-weather which has been his undoing before.

Algiers was impressive at York but he’s been good so far on dirt and on softer ground so this may prove to be a bit quick. Missed The Cut is capable of winning this, but I’m not convinced by Quality Road progeny on this surface, especially with Sea The Stars in his pedigree.

Aidan O’Brien’s Bolshoi Ballet could be the one. Famed for going off 11/8 favourite for the 2021 Derby, he is still a colt at four and could be seen as valuable by Coolmore.

He’s had his problems but he’s also put in some big performances, especially abroad in group/grade races and he wants it quick so this could be the perfect scenario for him.

Friday 4th & Saturday 5th November 2022: Breeders’ Cup Special

Though there’s Flat and jumping domestic action, the main focus for us is the 2022 Breeders’ Cup at Keeneland, one of the homes of horse racing.

Friday 4th November 2022

7.00 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint – Grade 1) – MISCHIEF MAGIC

Home runners American Apple, Lady Hollywood, Tyler’s Tribe and Speed Boat Beach could be competitive, while Wesley Ward’s Love Reigns is probably the best of them and has experience against UK runners.

The Platinum Queen has been admirable but isn’t much better than her fellow British runners and is drawn out wide, while Persian Force is consistent but not massively progressive.

Dramatised can be feared for the Karl Burke team from the 4 gate, but way overpriced next door in five is Charlie Appleby’s Mischief Magic.

He’s been really impressive at times this season and was fancied to win the Group 1 Middle Park only for the race not to suit.

7.40 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies – Grade 1) – CHOP CHOP

Raging Sea, Leave No Trace and Grand Love are drawn wide and it appears the form of the Alcibiades Stakes over course and distance is the line to concentrate on.

In that race, the consistent Wonder Wheel made all but only just held on from the fast-improving Chop Chop who had to come from the back. She can continue her sharp upward trajectory and land this race for Brad Cox.

8.20 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf – Grade 1) – MEDITATE

With form, speed and breeding all taken into account this does look like a good opportunity for Aidan O’Brien’s filly Meditate to score despite being parked in gate 10.

She’s already stayed seven furlongs at the Curragh so I’ve no issue with going an extended mile around these bends, while she also possesses the pace needed to kick on when necessary.

Her form is simply better than that of the others and she can win ahead of Spirit Gal and Midnight Mile.

9.40 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf – Grade 1) – SILVER KNOTT

Charlie Appleby has an excellent record in this race, winning it with Modern Games last year who we’ll see in the Mile.

His Silver Knott is a proper type. This year’s impressive Solario winner got the better of a very strong Autumn Stakes field last time out and if not receiving bad luck, should take care of this bunch no problem. Victoria Road is next on the list.

Saturday 5th November 2022

12.50 Doncaster (Wentworth Stakes – Listed Race) – ART POWER

At five and as a full horse, Art Power is still getting better. He doesn’t put his very best in every single time, but he’s saved it for this sort of ground including when demolishing a good Group 3 field at the Curragh.

Some haven’t taken that at face value, the official handicapper certainly hasn’t, and this horse is penalised too, but using certain metrics and on a line through the horses he beat, that was a Group 1 performance. He may be too good for Commanche Falls, Rhythm Master and Chipstead.

1.30 Doncaster (Gillies Fillies’ Stakes – Listed Race) – LIFE OF DREAMS

A good number of these may appreciate the very wet ground, but it should also present no problems for Charlie Appleby’s Life Of Dreams who is heading the right way and should be a sound middle-distance Group filly. Sweet Believer and Moon De Vega are next best.

3.13 Doncaster (November Handicap) – ISRAR

This is a very competitive race. With all things taken into consideration, Nathaniel Greene, Metier, Cemhaan and First Officer are pretty hard to split. Israr however stands taller.

The London Gold Cup produces so many future Group winners and I still think Israr will be one of them.

Not only is he of that ability and certainly better than his current mark of 106, but he actually won ever so easily over this course and distance two weeks ago and in heavy ground too, so there’s nothing not to like.

3.50 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint – Grade 1) – GOODNIGHT OLIVE

As a three-year-old Echo Zulu remains capable while Slammed, Obligatory and Ce Ce have all shown terrific ability.

The selection however is Chad Brown’s Goodnight Olive. She’s unbeaten in five now, has reached a level good enough to be competitive and crucially is still improving unlike many others.

4.29 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint – Grade 1) – CREATIVE FORCE

Despite the level of attention placed upon the wonderful Highfield Princess and likely favourite Golden Pal, this is actually a very competitive sprint race.

Flotus still remains capable of landing a big one while Wesley Ward’s Campanelle is also a contender. Charlie Appleby’s Creative Force and Naval Crown have been hard to split over the past couple of years, both when you take a close look continue to improve in fast conditions and both are capable in this race.

With Naval Crown stuck out wide, William Buick riding Creative Force and him still being a double-figure price, he is the one to be with.

5.10 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile – Grade 1) – LAUREL RIVER

Bill Mott and Godolphin’s Cody’s Wish is well fancied, but although his trainer may not be the most popular winner here, Laurel River looks top class and may edge this one. Bob Baffert’s four-year-old Juddmonte colt has been outstanding out in California and may just be too good for them.

6.30 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Sprint – Grade 1) – ALOHA WEST

Connections of Jackie’s Warrior will be looking for him to go out on a high, but the odds-on favourite was well beaten in this race last year, is arguably regressing and is drawn a little wide.

Wesley Ward’s runners are often overrated by British bookies and I think that’s been the case again with Kimari, while American Theorem has excellent form with Laurel River and this is his trip.

Strangely last year’s winner at Del Mar, Aloha West, has been overlooked and is very good value to win it again having recovered his form with a Listed win at Churchill Downs.

7.10 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Mile – Grade 1) – MODERN GAMES

Kinross is admirable but the mile and his wide draw are against him. Annapolis can be very good so is a danger, but Modern Games is head and shoulders above this bunch as long as he hasn’t had too challenging a season.

What he did in the French Guineas, the French Derby and the QEII are all bonuses. This is really his territory. He was a classy winner of the Juvenile Turf at last year’s meeting and was scintillating in the Woodbine Mile in September.

7.55 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Distaff – Grade 1) – MALATHAAT

The last two fillies to have won the Kentucky Oaks for us, Malathaat and Secret Oath, are in the line-up and both can go well.

Malathaat wasn’t ready for this race last year as a three-year-old but she sure is now. She’s less flashy than Nest, but gets the job done and is still improving. Nest is a danger, as is old rival Clairiere.

8.40 Keeneland (Breeders’ Cup Turf – Grade 1) – NATIONS PRIDE

This race marks the end of a fantastic and high-earning career for Mishriff. Aidan O’Brien sends Broome and Stone Age while War Like Gossess is the best of the Americans. Despite having no Adayar, Yibir or Hurricane Lane, Charlie Appleby still has the top two in the market!

Don’t underestimate Rebel’s Romance, but Nations Pride is a genuine Group 1 horse and can win this under William Buick. He was my fancy for the Derby at home and has gone from strength to strength in North America.

Friday 28th & Saturday 28th October 2022: Conquest the King at Newmarket

It’s Charlie Hall Chase weekend at Wetherby, with Bravemansgame fancied to win the big one although he is too short a price to do so.

With the jumps season getting into full swing now, Ascot also hosts the Bateaux London Gold Cup, but there are still plenty of betting opportunities on the Flat, especially at headquarters where we are betting across Friday and Saturday.

Friday 28th October 2022

1.30 Newmarket (Novice Stakes) – MAJESTIC PRIDE

This is a field full of mostly newcomers, so strong money for any runner should be noted.

Having handled heavy ground and 6½ furlongs well on debut, Physique is rightly well fancied to go one better, but the seven furlongs of the Rowley Mile is a different proposition to Newbury and that run was only seven days ago.

On breeding Burdett Road may fancy this first time up, but even more likely is Charlie Appleby’s Majestic Pride who can be backed to small stakes if there is encouragement and if a price of more than 3/1 holds.

He should relish this test and his trainer so consistently sends these types out to perform to a good level on debut. With William Buick in Australia, James Doyle is left to take over.

2.40 Newmarket (Bosra Sham Fillies’ Stakes – Listed Race) – MATILDA PICOTTE

At this stage of their respective careers, it’s impossible to know exactly what level these two-year-old fillies can reach before the end of the year.

Some don’t have form on rain-softened ground though, some don’t look comfortable on it and some aren’t bred for it either.

None of those things are true of the Irish-trained Matilda Picotte who for me has the best form and is fine in the conditions so is a sound bet to take this race, perhaps ahead of Diamond Vega.

3.35 Saint-Cloud (Prix Solitude – Listed Race) – GOLDEN LYRA

William Haggas is sending one horse over to France on Friday and in fact his Golden Lyra could be very good value to pinch the win.

Tres Queen, Daisy Maisy and Queen Trezy have all shown ability, but only to the level Golden Lyra showed on only her second run and seasonal debut at Newbury back in June. She was favourite for the Listed race won by Haskoy in August, and has been no doubt sent here to get the softer ground she craves. 

There is no available betting at the time of writing, though one forecast has her as a 9/2 shot while on another she is 10/1. I expect her to be shorter than that come the off.

3.50 Newmarket (Handicap) – ALLMANKIND

Running on the Flat for the first time since 2019 is the now Dan Skelton-trained Allmankind.

Based on all the information available, most notably how he has improved jumping, we can expect him to be at least 6lbs, maybe many more, ahead of the handicap mark of 86 he has been dropped to on the level. In fact, he reached 90 when running in the Dee Stakes for Michael Bell.

He will be staying on when others are running out of puff in this two-mile contest, while that potential for being well ahead of his mark is not something the others can boast, including second choice Novel Legend.

Saturday 29th October 2022

2.48 Newmarket (Nursery Handicap) – DARTMAN

In this nine-furlong nursery there are a number of seemingly reliable indicators which show is that Forceful Speed, Sir Laurance Graff, Shahbaz, Orchestra and Dawn Vega may be very close at the weights. The one who may yet prove to be the standout however is Dartman.

Brian Meehan’s runner was gelded before his debut and just maybe took his time to get going. After a pretty average debut, he put up a very reasonable performance when third behind Classic over ton the July Course on soft ground back in August.

That run would have earned him a mark in the early 80’s and he will have improved some since then. He gets in here off only 77 having been well beaten on the all-weather last, a run easy to forgive. Back on turf, he could prove to be well handicapped.

3.00 Wetherby (West Yorkshire Hurdle – Grade 2) – PROSCHEMA

Proschema was behind Indefatigable in this race last year but has a big weight turnaround now, while he also has age on his side in that battle.

He also had every chance of beating favourite Sporting John at Cheltenham last season before falling. He’s fit, improving and really should prove to be the best of this bunch.

3.23 Newmarket (Handicap) – KING OF CONQUEST

Godolphin’s six-year-old Ghaly (Saeed bin Suroor) may still be well handicapped, while back on softer ground a good run can be expected from Lawful Command.

The one who may, just may, have tons in hand however is Godolphin’s other runner, the Charlie Appleby-trained King Of Conquest.

After making a very nice debut last August he was sent off favourite to beat the likes of Zechariah and Westover. He wasn’t at his best in the end, finishing third, while things also went wrong in Dubai but he has now been gelded and waited with.

He’s ready to go again and no doubt a minimum target for him will be to reach triple figures, which he’s very capable of, so coming in off 88 is more than a little tempting.

3.58 Newmarket (Montrose Fillies’ Stakes – Listed Race) – DREAM OF LOVE

This could be another winner for the powerful Charlie Appleby yard courtesy of their Shamardal/Galileo cross Dream Of Love.

She made a very pleasing debut when winning here three weeks ago over seven furlongs, this extra 220 yards looking like being right up her street.

She looked a little green that day yet got the job done against some pretty decent yardsticks, reaching a level just a couple of pounds below Dermot Weld’s Keep In Touch and Clive Cox’s Conservationist with clearly more to come.

Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd October 2022: Gosden Colt to be Stoic in Futurity

Cheltenham begins its season with the Showcase Meeting on Friday, while Aintree hosts the Old Roan Chase on Sunday. There is still plenty of business to do on the Flat however on what is another Group 1 weekend.

The Vertem Futurity is the big race of the weekend, while it seems that John and Thady Gosden could be in for a very profitable time too.

Friday 21st October 2022

2.35 Newbury (Fillies’ Handicap) – KING’S JOY 

Any money for hat-trick seekers Misty Dancer and Miss Down Under is understandable, however the strongest of this bunch may well be the Gosdens’ King’s Joy.

The Kingman filly has been getting there slowly but surely, showing up well behind Grande Dame earlier in the season as well as at Ascot in the summer, but she reached a new level last time when behind Al Husn at Newmarket.

The ground should be fine for her and she may outclass Picual and the aforementioned last-time-out winners.

3.10 Newbury (Handicap) – FRANTASTIC

Could there be a quick Gosden, Dettori, Oppenheimer, topweight handicap double? I reckon there just might.

Frantastic looked very decent when winning at Newcastle last back end, handling the Tapeta very well and scooting away close home.

He was sent to the Classic Trial in the spring and in August over 1m2f at Newbury, he beat subsequent hurdle winner Admiralty House and the now 84-rated winner Cave Diver.

This 1m5½f trip should be ideal for Cracksman’s full brother and he may be able to stretch away from Tathbeet and Juan Bermudez.

4.05 Doncaster (Handicap) – ALMUHIT

An interesting race over the St Leger trip of 1m6½f, one in which the most likely winners are David Simcock’s four-year-old Traila and theGosdens’ Almuhit.

Their form is very similar and they are rated only 1lb apart, however Almuhit has a year on his rival and was slowly away last time on his first run after a gelding operation. He’ll be much straighter this time no doubt and has plenty more improvement to come over the trip.

4.38 Doncaster (Handicap) – FIRST OFFICER

Last October, a fine maiden at Newmarket was won by Al Mubhir, a winner for last Friday’s column. Beaten only 2¼ lengths that day on debut after a slow start was First Officer who was unfortunately campaigned almost exclusively on fast ground since.

Al Mubhir needed the rain last week and First Officer needed it when bolting up last time out on his first start for Jane Chapple-Hyam.

On private ratings, I made First Officer a 92 horse, while Al Mubhir is now officially rated 97. Either way, it seems First Officer’s current mark of 87 still underestimates his talents greatly and the son of Galileo should enjoy himself in this race.

Saturday 22nd October 2022

1.33 Saint-Cloud (Criterium de Saint-Cloud – Group 1) – ARREST 

Juddmonte are very keen on Arrest, as are John and Thady Gosden, and while the Vertem Futurity was under consideration for him this race is more winnable and they have another colt for the Doncaster race.

Arrest is a big baby and will have improved plenty from his last race, he has strong form and looks as though these conditions will be fine form him as the Frankel’s tend to stay very well.

1.50 Newbury (Horris Hill Stakes – Group 3) – STRIKING STAR

Charlie Appleby’s Striking Star won his maiden at Sandown last month very much despite the soft ground and not because of it. He was blocked in his run that day too and should have been a much more impressive winner visually.

Having been off for over five weeks he will have improved markedly as the yard’s juveniles do, and now the Dubawi/Shamardal cross can show his class and perhaps put himself in the Classic frame for next spring.

Ancestral Land, Grey’s Monument, Lord Of Biscay and Knight may all be very useful.

2.30 Doncaster (Handicap) – ISRAR

It was commented on these pages that the only horse who fit the bill of being that potential Group horse in the London Gold Cup back in May, the type that usually wins the race, was Israr.

He duly did win, and while it hasn’t gone exactly to plan for the John and Thady Gosden runner since, he remains a horse of some promise at this mile-and-a-half trip and he is taken to prove how well handicapped he truly is for the end of the season.

In behind there is more to come from Wandering Rocks no doubt, while Moktasaab remains solid as an each-way proposition.

3.35 Doncaster (Vertem Futurity – Group 1) – EPICTETUS

This could be yet another big race victory on what has turned out to be an important weekend for the Gosden yard.

This year, the Gosdens have had to watch on as Charlie Appleby and William Haggas have truly taken over in the training ranks, while their very public spat with Frankie Dettori was also a low point. Their Epictetus though is a proper Group 1 type and can take this.

On debut the Kingman colt beat Flying Honours by 4½ lengths and he is now rated 110. We knew he’d be a top challenger in the Autumn Stakes but plumped for Silver Knott, which was the correct call just about, and that horse can be another real top-notcher. He’s now rated 115 and is off to the Breeders’ Cup.

That’s the level Epictetus can now achieve, if not more, and his yard must be full of confidence. He does have Auguste Rodin to beat who is second-favourite for the 2000 Guineas and the Derby, but beat him he can.

4.15 Newbury (Handicap) – NATURAL WORLD

While Magisterial could yet be up to much better things and we know the quality of the likes of Mujtaba, Natural World remains of major interest.

Back in the spring he beat stablemate Ottoman Fleet and Lion on debut, two horses now rated 109. He was sent straight to the Derby Trial at Lingfield after that but most likely wants this softer ground and has needed time to truly come to himself. He may now be well handicapped and overpriced.

Friday 7th & Saturday 8th October 2022: Naval to Power to Dewhurst Success

You might want to call this the start of the jumps season proper, Chepstow hosting some excellent National Hunt events over the weekend.

We are far from done with the Flat however, with Newmarket’s Future Champions Weekend taking precedence here.

We may be about to see a substandard Fillies’ Mile, at least in behind Commissioning who could be the real deal, while Flying Honours should be too good in the Zetland but is not a backable price.

Friday 7th October 2022

1.50 Newmarket (Cornwallis Stakes – Group 3) – CRISPY CAT

Clearpoint can be forgiven his latest run, while there could be a major return to form for the filly Maylandsea at a nice price.

Keith Dalgleish’s Prince Of Pillo is a strong favourite after his demolition job at Ayr, but going up the Rowley Mile hill it would be no surprise to see unlucky Norfolk Stakes third Crispy Cat come out on top.

The son of Ardad should perhaps have won that day and he’s had very valid excuses in three runs since. His experience could play a big part in this race and the excellent Ryan Moore takes the ride.

4.10 Newmarket (Old Rowley Cup – Heritage Handicap) – FIRST RULER 

Based on current rate of progression Simply Sondheim, who is on an incredible seven-timer, can run well but a lot depends on how he handles faster ground.

Educator will have been put right by his second last week for the King and, based on what he achieved in the spring ahead of the likes of London Gold Cup winner Israr, he should be right in the mix now. Stablemate La Yakel can go well again, but on this ground may have it to do against old rival First Ruler.

First Ruler is the clear standout of Charlie Appleby’s four with Wild Crusade, Al Nafir and Cosmic Desert all admittedly solid, and on faster ground can continue his progress.

5.50 Newmarket (Pride Stakes – Group 3) – CREATIVE FLAIR

Godolphin’s Creative Flair runs her last race in the one and a quarter-mile Pride Stakes. Not only will her team have prepared her a send-off to remember, but this has been her long-term target all year anyway.

Trainer Charlie Appleby said she was basically “punch drunk” having had to chase a suicidal early pace on firm ground in America back in July. She’s much better than that.

On balance, there may not be that much between Ville De Grace and three-year-olds Peripatetic and Shaara who can all challenge for places.

10.16 Keeneland (Alcibiades Stakes – Grade 1) – RAGING SEA

The excellent Chad Brown scratched his once-raced filly Raging Sea from her previous Grade 1 appointment and rerouted her here.

A sloppy, quick track was not thought to be ideal but going over an extended mile at Keeneland looks ideal for the ‘Win and You’re In’ race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies on November 4. This is only her second run, but she’s well drawn, has lots of talent and may stay on best of all.

Saturday 8th October 2022

2.25 Newmarket (Autumn Stakes – Group 3) – SILVER KNOTT

A most fascinating juvenile race and a high class one for sure. Exoplanet could be a big improver as a debut winner for Roger Varian while Holloway Boy has experience at a good level.

The Gosdens’ Epictetus was impressive when winning his sole race to date, though I don’t know why he has been off since then. He is the obvious danger, but he may not be good enough to beat the talented improving Silver Knott.

The easy Solario winner got stuck in the mud when losing out at Doncaster last time, but has otherwise been exemplary and can add this race to his CV before perhaps heading to the Breeders’ Cup.

3.00 Newmarket (Dewhurst Stakes – Group 1) – NAVAL POWER

Ante-post favourite Sakheer had to pull out after scoping dirty on Friday morning but while I love the horse, for what it’s worth I don’t think he’d have won it over seven furlongs.

Juddmonte have a strong hand here with Chaldean and especially Nostrum who now assumes favouritism.

Incredibly, Sir Michael Stoute hasn’t won the Dewhurst since 1986 but Nostrum gives him a terrific chance now after a most taking debut win, as well as his classy yet hard-fought Tattersalls Stakes win over this track and trip.

In Naval Power however, Godolphin and Charlie Appleby may have yet another Dewhurst star. Their 2019 and 2021 winners Pinatubo and Native Trail were obvious two-year-old types, whereas this horse according to the trainer has always looked like a three-year-old.

Being unbeaten so far in four has felt like a bonus to his team and he has never been asked for too much. Apparently, he is ready to put it all together now and a usually circumspect and modest Appleby reckons that nothing will get him off the bridle easily.

He can emulate his sire Teofilo at this stage, but will hopefully go on to have a fine Classic career too. As Appleby says; he will not be wanting for stamina when they hit the rising ground.

4.25 York (Handicap) – WHITEHAVEN

We went for Hughie Morrison’s Whitehaven last week, though he was taken out before racing began. He’s back this week over two miles at a very fair track in York, one that should see the four-year-old return to his best which is something he’s been doing gradually since the summer.

Atacama Desert is an obvious danger, improving all the time, while the likes of Duke Of Verona, Praiano, Carrigillihy and It’s Good To Laugh will all have backers.

5.20 Newmarket (Darley Stakes – Group 3) – ROYAL FLEET

Royal Fleet won ever so easily last time and is still a work in progress. His form to date entitles him to go close anyway, but unlike a number of others in this race we expect him to now run a new career best.

His team already have an eye on a big-money race in Bahrain for him, one for which this event gives him automatic entry so he will be prepped to perfection to get the job done.

Alflaila is classy but may lack the turn of foot Royal Fleet has, while Cadillac, Ottoman Fleet and Finest Sound can all show up well.

10.14 Keeneland (Breeders’ Futurity – Grade 1) – LOGGINS 

This top-notch two-year-old race has been very good in recent times, producing such horses as Essential Quality. The added dimension this year is that, while being a ‘Win and You’re In’ for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, it is also run over the very same course and distance.

This year’s renewal is a belter with 16 lining up. Forte is at the top of the market while Lost Ark, Carmel Road and Newgate are all to be watched, but the standout for me is the once-raced Loggins.

Brax Cox’s colt won on debut by a yawning 8½ lengths at Churchill Downs over six and a half furlongs. He is by Ghostzapper, a proper Grade I stallion whose progeny always do better as they get older, he’s well drawn and he looks the potential class in the race.