ROYAL ASCOT: SATURDAY 23rd JUNE 2012. IT'S AUSTRALIA DAY TODAY,FOR SURE

The Aussies are raiding Royal Ascot and it is going to their day today, for sure.

The 'Wonder Mare from Down Under' BLACK CAVIAR is the star attraction today and it will be a very different atmosphere, than usual.

Those lads(and lasses) know how to have a good time and I expect there will be the odd one like my little mate above, sleeping it off, to be found somewhere.

The interest that the unbeaten Black Caviar has generated has been amazing and after Frankel got the meeting off to a flying start it's her turn to take centre stage.

She runs in the 3.45 Diamond Jubilee Stakes and will surely pick this lot up at any stage she likes, winning in a hack canter. Under three lengths is my guess, but that won't hide her superiority.

The place will erupt and I should imagine it will be a long time in subsiding.

We will see something special on a day where not just the supermare brings an antipodean feel to it.

The 3.05 Hardwicke Stakes contains the 1-2 from last year's Melbourne Cup and they will prove popular with the travelling hordes. The winner that day Dunaden will go close, but I fancy the second RED CADEAUX more. He was just touched off in that race and with this shorter distance in his favour, I think he may just prevail. He caught my eye staying on behind easy winner St. Nicholas Abbey at Epsom last time and this stiffer track will suit. He could be still improving and on a line through St Nick, has just as good a chance as favourite Sea Moon, yet is three times the price. Had a bit on at 9's each way with Ladbrokes and he will go well.

The 4.25 Wokingham Stakes is a massive field dash and the one I really like is MEDICEAN MAN. This one is trained by, would you believe, an Australian Jeremy Gask and those chaps know how to handle a sprinter. This one ran a blinder in Tuesday's Group 1 King's Stand finishing a close up fourth. A quick reappearance and an extra furlong could even bring about improvement, he will run well at around 14-1. His form with the highly progressive Mirza looks exceptional and I am sure the Aussies will be having a go at this one too.

His stablemate High Standing wouldn't be a total rag either and can go well for Mr Gask.

I really like the chances of those two above and I'm sure it's just a pure coincidence there are Aussie connections, but if you read an old blog of mine CHOISIR, SIR BOB & PLANT POTS you'll see it does work in mysterious ways.

The reception Black Caviar will receive if and when she wins will be something else, and it's going to be a long day for some of the Aussie boys. They had an early start with the Rugby and are going to be partying long into the night.

I have had a couple of each ways with The Cheka and Es Que Love who are both huge prices and should go well, but in all reality I just want to see Black Caviar put up an imperious display. She Will.

There will be plenty of caviar eaten by the toffs at Ascot today, but like those down to earth Aussie blokes I'm more of a cod roe man myself.

Happy late Australia Day.

Randy

ROYAL ASCOT: FRIDAY 22nd JUNE 2012. YOU NEED ASTROLOGY IN THIS GAME

Yesterday was a case of nearly so, firstly I put Wednesday instead of Thursday in the title, always proof read your blog, the lesson learned.

I fancied Godolphin to win a race they have a great record in, sadly I picked the race before they actually did it.

I fancied a Frankie flying leap at some stage, he duly obliged on the biggest stage, unbacked!

The final kick in teeth came when I fancied a William Haggas horse in the Hunt Cup, who had good form on Kempton's polytrack and would go close. He did, finishing 6th, however the winner was a William Haggas horse who had good form on Kempton's polytrack and bolted up, again unbacked.

Crystal ball was definitely a bit misty yesterday.

Anyway looking in the stars today ASTROLOGY must be worth a good bet. He was a gallant third in the Epsom Derby behind brilliant stablemate Camelot, and on that form looks sure to run well in the 3.05 King Edward VII Stakes.

He has to prove he stays this distance, but his performance on soft ground in Chester's Dee Stakes over a furlong and half shorter looked as if it would be no problem. If jockey Ryan Moore can hold onto him a bit longer and commit later I am sure he will win this. He looked the second best horse in the Derby and though this stiffer test will suit Derby fourth Thought Worthy better, he was readily brushed aside that day.

Shantaram could surprise as he is proven on soft ground and over the distance. He was just touched off by Derby third Main Sequence in the Lingfield Derby trial and can give Astrology most to do.

GATEWOOD really caught the eye last time at Epsom, travelling and winning as if he is potentially top class. If handling today's softer ground he can go really close in the 4.25 Wolferton Handicap.

With the Germans taking on Greece in the second Euro Quarter Final tonight and the winner awaiting England if they can get past the Italians, I am sure most people will be honorary Greeks tonight.

Athens would be a nice coincidence bet in the 5.00 Queen's Vase and should go close on the soft ground, however he was disappointing last time.

The clue for this race is in the title, and the one I like is Sir Michael Stoute's ESTIMATE. She is owned by The Queen and I am sure the trainer would like to give the old girl her own vase back, she did afterall give him a knighthood!

ESTIMATE though does have a really good chance, she won really well at Sandown last time on softish ground. That track is stiff enough and she looks as if this step up to two miles will really suit. Soft ground won't be a problem either as she is by Monsun and I can see her going really well, especially as she gets an nice 3lb allowance.

A nice treble today, will hopefully cheer me up before we see something really special tomorrow.

Happy punting

Randy

ROYAL ASCOT; WEDNESDAY 20th JUNE 2012. FRANKIE'S TURN

Well Frankel delivered in some style yesterday and all the superlatives heaped on him are truly justified. The highest rating given to a flat horse and we did indeed something special. A true champion, and he will go on to be one of the legends of the sport, mentioned in the same breath as all the greats.

Another legend though has been finding it tough recently and folllowing yesterday's special happenings he will be determined to get his name back up in lights.

Frankie Dettori and Royal Ascot go together like peaches and cream and the thought of him having no winners does seem unbelievable. His nose has been put out of joint by his boss, Sheikh Mohammed using the younger jockeys more frequently and he will be determined to show everyone that famous flying leap once more.

Today he rides FARHH in the 3.45 Prince of Wales Stakes and I think he's got a lively chance. He has to improve massively on what he's shown so far as he was only winning handicaps up to now, but I think there is improvement to come. He has the top notch So You Think and The Queen's Carlton House to beat, but looks worth a decent each way punt.

Frankie reeled in So You Think in last year's race onboard the sadly departed Rewilding and I think he'll be trying to execute the same thing today. Carlton House seems a bit fragile to me and may not back up his recent win, though he is top class.

A lot of the others prefer softer ground and this unbeaten 4 year old may shock a few here today. I know he's fancied as he's around 8-1 and has been nibbled at.

After yestrday's poor punting day today's races look twice as hard and the big fields look unfathomable.

JOVIALITY however in the 3.05 Windsor Forest caught my eye at Epsom last time where she ran 2nd to Clinical despite hating that rollercoater track. Expect her to turn that form around today and is a good each way price. She ran 6th in last year's Group 1 Coronation Stakes not beaten far. The drying gound will suit and I can see her  running a big race.

The Royal Hunt Cup at 4.25 is a mile long cavalry charge and is devilishly hard, but one at 18-1 at Corals catches the eye. MULL OF KILLOUGH was just touched off in the Lincoln at Doncaster and proved a big field straight mile suits. He was disappointing last time on soft ground, but back on better ground and after a little break can go well here. Another each way poke.

An each way patent on the above three looks a good shout. Thats three each way singles, three each way doubles and an each way treble if your not sure.

Hopefully we can recoup yesterday's losses.

As for the Euro's, you have to start believing, England CAN win this tournament. My 15-1 Betfred voucher keeps telling me so.

Happy punting

Randy.

ROYAL ASCOT; TUESDAY 19th JUNE 2012. GET READY TO WITNESS SOMETHING SPECIAL!

I managed to snare this picture back in 2010 of a young two-year-old colt who simply demolished his rivals in The Royal Lodge at Ascot. I knew then he was a decent animal, but little did I realise what I had seen that day. Fast forward nearly two years and that magnificent beast finishing his race in splendid isolation is the mighty and undefeated Frankel.

The greatest five days of flat racing anywhere in the world kicks off with The Queen Anne Stakes and what better way to launch the high class action with a top notch Group 1 race featuring the best horse in the world. All the words bandied about in the press, on-line, on the news and everywhere else cannot do this horse any real justice.

Sadly due to other less interesting commitments I cannot make it to Royal Ascot today to soak up the atmosphere, anticipation and then sheer joy to watch a real champion. Everyone lucky enough to be at the course WILL witness something special as Frankel will surely win with great authority.

He is "The Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of The World" and will blast away his opponents and land his 11th straight victory, but at deserved ridiculously short odds is a no bet. The problem with trying to find an each way bet is you may be interested in other events instead of just enjoying a master at work. I would rather watch Frankel put in an awesome performance than be casting my eye back to the rest of the field fighting for scraps and trying to nick a place.

His nearest rival Excelebration is a top class Group 1 winning animal in his own right and in any other era would probably be the best horse around, but he has been firmly put in his place no less than four times by "The Champ". He has been beaten by a combined total of over fifteen lengths, including last time in the Lockinge at Newbury by an easy looking five. It is frightening to think that Frankel will come on for that run.

What made that performance even more impressive was the fact Frankel had an injury scare prior to the race, had missed some work and was meeting his rival who had the benefit of a previous run. He handed him a thorough beating and Aidan O'Brien's colt must be sick of the sight of his nemesis. His heart will sink once he eye-balls the mighty one in the parade ring, at the start or even in the race. He looks booked for second and is the safe and predictable each way punt, but the value is drying up. If he doesn't fancy it there could be a bit of value elsewhere if you have to have a punt.

Strong Suit is a two time Royal Ascot winner but is making his seasonal debut here. He also has to prove he stays a mile and on softish ground on this stiff track it may be just asking a bit too much. He will run well, but will surely come on for the run. His class though will probably see him into third place.

Worthadd likes to run up near the pace, but will get swallowed up once the big guns get going late on.

Side Glance has decent Ascot form, but doesn't look good enough.

Bullet Train and Windsor Castle are the pacemakers and will give way once their jobs are done.

The Mahmood Al Zarooni trained ex-Aussie Helmet looks interesting at a huge price and though he hasn't shown much this year, is a three time Group 1 winner back in his native homeland.Any ground seems to suit as does the mile trip and he may surprise a few as his owner Sheik Mohammed has landed this race many times in the past. Even Aidan O'Brien has collected this prize in the past with an Australian import Haradasun. He can't win, but may be a bit of value especially if Excelebration or Strong Suit underperform, highly unlikely, but worth a second glance.

The rest surely don't look good enough and to be honest, just watch the race and take in a once in a lifetime peformer, who is rightly being lauded as the best in the world by some distance. The perfect curtain raiser to some of the finest horseracing you will want to see.

There is however some value to be had in the other races and I like the look of SPIRIT QUARTZ in the Group 1 King's Stand at 2.30. This race is going to be a total lottery as there will be over 20 runners going lickety-spit over the minimum distance of 5 furlongs. My selection will need luck in running, but is a Group 3 winner in Italy over 6 furlongs on ground with cut. He seems a consistent sort and travels well in his races. He has caught the eye a couple of times this season including last time when just touched off at Haydock carrying a big weight.

He also ran well in the Temple Stakes at Haydock when a few lengths behind the well fancied Bated Breath. He has ground to make up on that one, but can surely get closer to him on this stiffer track. He is also nearly five times the price too and the booking of Frankie Dettori, who rides Ascot better than most is another positive. Looks cracking value at around 25-1. His trainer Robert Cowell won this race last year with Prohibit and that one one can go well too, he could be worth a saver at around 16-1.

The next race is the St. James Palace Stakes and there is another one who really grabs my attention. BORN TO SEA is hardly an original choice, but I can't believe he is still trading at around the 10-1 mark. Frankel has taken over the mantle, but Born to Sea's older half brother Sea The Stars was just as exciting, winning all the top races from the 2000 Guineas to The Arc, via The Epsom Derby in a vintage year back in 2009.

Now Born To Sea is nowhere in that league, but he is slowly getting the hang of things and looks as if this race will finally see him land a big pot. He looked above average as a juvenile, before disappointing on his last run as a 2-year-old. He was found to be lame and is surely being nursed along this year for a second half of the season campaign.

His first run this year in the 2000 Guineas was disappointing but he did finish well clear of today's favourite Power in that contest. Power turned the form around in the Irish 2000 guineas, but Born To Sea's run was very eyecatching. He had first time headgear on that day and seemed to be travelling sweetly before coming home in fine fashion to be a never dangerous fifth.

He was ridden by Kevin Manning then, but is re-united with the excellent Johnny Murtagh, who has ridden the colt in all his other runs and knows him well. It is interesting John Oxx his trainer sends him over for this and there aren't many better riders of Ascot than Mr.Murtagh. I really like his chances of improving again from that run and finishing in front of Power this time. He is certainly a value each way punt and I reckon his price will shorten all day.

The rest of the card doesn't really interest me for betting purposes but from my Epsom eyecatchers

http://horseracingtavern.com/2012/06/epsom-derby-2012-review-eyecatchers-tips/

HEAVY METAL in the 4.25 Coventry Stakes is worth a second look at a massive price. He was somewhat unlucky at Epsom and this is a huge step up in grade. He is a hardened and tough type though, from the Mark Johnston yard and will be battling on when a few have cried enough. He might lack the class of the O'Brien, Bolger and Hannon horses, but will run well.

Hopefully once we have witnessed the Frankel procession we can settle down, enjoy the races and make a profit.

Good luck and Happy Punting.

Randy.

AMAZING GREYS

With the spectacle that is the all encompassing Cheltenham Festival less than two months away, and festival  fever gripping everyone who is involved or in love with horse racing, I thought it was time to have a review  of  my ante-post portfolio.In addition, I have gone through a lot of the races to try and unearth a few gems as there is nothing better than going into the battle that is Cheltenham with a few favourable vouchers burning a hole in your pocket. What struck me this year is the number of grey horses with outstanding chances in tons of the races. Whilst this may not be unusual, I really can't believe there have been so many of the housewife's favourites featuring so prominently at the top of so many markets. The sight of those grey ghosts charging up the hill a la One Man, Desert Orchid, Rooster Booster,Detroit City et al is a joy to see. Here we go through a seemingly endless list of great white hopes.

           AL FEROF.(Trained by Paul Nicholls, a 7-y-o gelding.) 

This novice is so well thought off he is set to take on more experienced rivals in today's Victor Chandler Chase and will surely go very close. The Arkle against fellow novices looks the safest option but if he bolts up in Ascot's big race, then connections will surely think of going for The Queen Mother Champion Chase. Has blinding festival form as was 2nd in the Bumper, two years ago before going on to land last year's Supreme. I'd rather see him go for the Arkle as he'll surely have a better chance in that, but the stable obviously think they have something special here.Whether he can beat the likes of Finians's Rainbow today remains to be seen, but this is a very smart horse. 

GRANDS CRUS(Martin Pipe 7yo gelding) Here's another novice who may take on the big boys in this years Gold Cup. Is a most progressive sort who has taken to jumping fences well and looks sure to run well at the festival. Would rather see him run in the RSA Chase this year, where he would be the likely favourite, but with not much strength in depth in the Gold Cup its understandable connections are thinking of a crack at the big one. Was a good 2nd in last year's World Hurdle behind the legendary Big Bucks and at one stage was travelling so well I thought he may even win. This one is high class. We'll see him next week at Cheltenham and that will tell us more.

DIVERS (Ferdy Murphy, 8yo gelding) Is obviously a spring horse with a preference for good ground.Should get those conditions in March. Won the Centenary at last year's festival and will run well wherever he goes this year. Ran a cracker in the Paddy Power Chase on ground softer than ideal before disappointingly unseating in the Spinal Research Handicap back at Cheltenham. Will be freshened up and may go for the Byrne Plate or Ryanair over a course and distance that will suit.Having Graham Lee back in the saddle will be a bonus. 

BABY MIX (Tom George 4yo gelding) Have backed this one at 8-1 for the Triumph Hurdle on the strength of his win back in December where he beat the well regarded Hinterland very easily. What impressed that day was the way he travelled and jumped, he looks the one to beat. Will hopefully run in the JCB Triumph Hurdle trial race at Cheltenham next week and if he wins that nicely, 8s will look value.

BARBATOS (Ian Williams 5yo gelding) was very impressed with this ones win last time where he came away very strongly from a decent enough field at Cheltenham on New Year's Day. Has ground to make up on the very smart Fingal Bay, but has a lot of scope and can improve back on good ground. Around 16-1 for the Neptune Hurdle is cracking each way value, as long as he turns up for that race. Trainer rates this horse highly.

SIMONSIG ( Nicky Henderson, 5yo gelding.) Was 2nd to Fingal Bay on bad ground at Sandown last time not beaten far and was in turn, miles clear of Barbatos, back in 3rd. Has good form on good ground and is a point to point winner so looks to have plenty of stamina, a trait that is often required to land the Supreme Novice Hurdle. Around 14s for that and hopefully he'll take up that option, as I have backed it! Been a bit of talking horse and will be good each way value wherever he goes.

The Pertemps Hurdle is often won by a progressive staying type and the two who catch my eye so far are OUR FATHER (David Pipe 6yo gelding) and SIVOLA DE SIVOLA (Tom George 6yo gelding). Our Father hasn't finished out of the first two in all four outings and has some nice bits of form carrying big weights. Looks sure to run well, as will Sivola de Sivola who is also improving at a rapid rate of knots.

 Apparently been working well and wasn't beaten too far at last years festival behind Bob's Worth. 

GREAT ENDEAVOUR (David Pipe 8yo gelding) Won the Paddy Power Chase very impressively this season, before disappointing the next two times. However both of those could be excused as he probably didn't stay in the Hennessy and then was hampered next time at Cheltenham. Has good festival form as won the Byrne Plate gamely in 2010 and would have been placed last year but for a late fall in the Spinal Research. A fast run 2m5f on goodish ground looks ideal and the Ryanair could be his target for which he is around 14s. Like his chances if freshened up for a spring campaign. 

THOUSAND STARS (Willie Mullins 7yo gelding) This one ran a cracker to be 4th behind classy stablemate Hurricane Fly in last season's Champion Hurdle, getting a bit outpaced before staying on late. won the County Hurdle in 2010 so is another who likes the festival in March. Stays further and is very consistent and I would like to see him run in the World Hurdle, where reigning champ Big Bucks can't be opposed, but at 10-1 with William Hills is blinding each way value.

ZAYNAR (Nick Williams 7yo gelding) This one has been called a few names in the past, but a change of scenery seems to rejuvenated him and Nick Williams has done wonders with this horse. Won the Triumph Hurdle really impressively and was placed in a Champion Hurdle too, so likes the festival in March.Cut no ice in last season's World Hurdle, but the switch to fences seems to have improved him. Won a good novice chase at Ascot last time and the 3rd and 4th in that race have won races since. Part owner Victor Chandler would surely like him to win on his big day at Ascot and if he goes well could be a lively one for Cheltenham.

A couple of others out today at Ascot who have caught my eye are KENTFORD GREY LADY(Emma Lavelle 6yo Mare) and SMAD PLACE (Alan King 5yo gelding) and both have great chances today. The mare has been mightily impressive in two wins this season and is a short priced favourite to enhance her reputation today. A win will see her shorten up for the Mare's race at the festival , she's around 16s at the moment and she could be the best of the English against the Irish hotpots. Smad Place has massive potential as a chaser and will probably need the run, but keep an eye on this one as he is still young enough to develop into a top notcher. Hasn't run since last season's festival but looks sure to run well in an open race today especially as the step up in trip looks sure to suit.

The final one is a bit of a dark one, or a more ghostly white to be precise but I have to include him on this list. Many will scoff but NACARAT (Tom George 11yo gelding) is a rather interesting entry in the Queen Mother Champion Chase. I fancied him for last year's Ryanair but he bypassed Cheltenham as the track doesn't play to his strengths, however a fast run 2 mile championship race will be the more exhilerating if this bold jumping grey is bowling along in front. He will probably run at Kempton first in the old Racing Post Chase, but I would love to see him run at Cheltenham on ground that is likely to suit. Hoping he may hold on for a place is wishful thinking, but who can forget One Man taking the Queen Mum after disappointing in the Gold Cup or the great Desert Orchid battling to Gold Cup success on a track that didn't play to his strengths. The ghosts of Cheltenham's past may well be re-lived through some of these and I'm sure a few bob each way on these will return a profit.

All comments gladly received.

Yours grey-tfully

Randy. 

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MONDAY 23rd JANUARY 2011, Weekend's Report

What a nice weekend. The greys didn't let us down with Smad Place the highlight with a 7-1 win. Al Ferof ran as well as expected in the Victor Chandler and now heads to Cheltenham a major player for the Arkle. Kentford Grey Lady I thought was a bit unlucky in 2nd and is still a nice each way poke for the festival wherever she turns up. Zaynar ran well for a long way before finishing 4th and is another who could still go well at the festival.

Yet another grey to add to the list is CHAMPAGNE FEVER (Willie Mullins 5yo gelding) who was very impressive in winning the flat race at Fairyhouse yesterday. Whether he is ready for the hurly burly of the Cheltenham Bumper yet is one thing, but if he turns up there should run well as has massive potential. 

A couple more to mention are both from Alan King's yard. MEDERMIT (8yo gelding) & WALKON (7yo gelding) as both of these have excellent Cheltenham form. Medermit might need a step up in trip to 3 miles and not sure what race he could go for but maybe the Ryanair over 2m5f will suit as it takes some getting. Walkon was disappointing last time but back on good ground at the festival will definitely run a big race. Was 2nd to Zaynar in a Truimph Hurdle once.

One thing for sure is I'm looking forward to Cheltenham in March and am counting down the days.

Randy 

ROYAL ASCOT 2011.GOLD CUP DAY

Gold Cup Day always envokes memories of the great Yeats, who won four Gold Cups and has been immortalised with a statue in the hallowed winner's enclosure.Luckily I was there to witness the great horse's fourth triumph and the reception he got that day was quite something. Today his stable's Fame And Glory bids to take over the mantle from his illustrious predecessor.It has to be taken on trust that this one will stay the gruelling two and a half mile trip.I think he will but if he does then the six-year old mare Fictional Account must finsh close up.This horse doesn't have much to find on her two efforts behind Fame And Glory and though obviously not as classy, the fact that her connections have entered her up here, must mean she has an outside chance.She promises to stay this trip, has won over Two miles at the course and won't mind any rain, so even though she has loads to find, a slog around here might just what she wants.Have backed her at 20's each way. I think either way The Gold cup will remain in Ireland.

What a Royal Ascot it has been so far, the first day it was a case of what might have been. My fancies on the opening day, Goldikova and Zigato, were close, but not close enough.Goldikova's jockey Olivier Peslier carried 2lbs extra, but was only beaten a length and Zigato was held up so far back, staying on strongly in the end to grab a fast finishing fourth. a case of one jockey overweight and one jockey over waits! Never mind, watch out for Zigato, well bred, proven at Ascot a definite Gold Cup horse in the making. Frankel though was the highlight and though only just holding on, is still unbeaten and rates a monster. 

So You Think on Wednesday being reeled in late by Frankie Dettori  on Rewilding, was a great race to watch, but Frankie's use of the whip, won him the prize, but earnt him a ban. its hard to weigh up whats right, the win will go down in history, but the ban won't worry the multi-millionnaire jockey. A case of winning is all that matters.

My Day Three fancies

2.30 Bannoch

3.05 Rumh

3.45 Fame And Glory 

  Fictional Account EW  

Good Luck & Happy Punting.

ROYAL ASCOT 2011.LET BATTLE COMMENCE.

The highlight of the flat season is nearly upon us and I for one, can not remember a more eagerly awaited festival. This year's meeting has all the hallmarks of being one of the best ever, there seems something for everyone. The opening day, with three Group 1's as the opening three races, whets the appetite in tremendous fashion, especially the very first race of the whole meeting, The Queen Anne Stakes over a mile.
There are some great punting oppurtunities and with a bit of discipline, hopefully a profit to boot. With any luck we can get day one off to a flyer.

My best bets for tomorrow are;

2.30 Queen Anne Stakes(Group 1)1 Mile Straight.

What a battle royal this promises to be. The more I look at the race, the more I think the French super-mare GOLDIKOVA will take the world of beating. Her win on her seasonal debut in the Prix d'Ispahan shows she remains extremely tough to beat.The form of that race has been boosted by the victories of Byword & Cirrus Des Aigles over the last two days and if any rain gets into the ground, I think it will inconvenience her less  than chief rival Canford Cliffs.
Some experts are pointing out that Canford Cliffs is better than Paco Boy, from the same stable, and that one ran Goldikova so close in this race last year, but the form of that race looked far stronger than Canford Cliff's victory in the St James's Palace Stakes on the same day over the same course and distance.
The way Goldikova quickened and took lengths out of a genuine Group 1 field was mightily impressive and this was backed up by the clock, as the time was much faster too.
I can see Cape Blanco taking this field along early and if Goldikova can get first run can nail that one close home, leaving Canford Cliff's just a bit too much to do.The 3lb she gets from her main market rival might just be enough for her to hold on for a narrow victory.
13-8 with Hills looks value for a 5pts Win Nap.

3.05 King's Stand Stakes(Group 1)5f

This race looks as open as any race at the whole meeting and is devilishly hard to predict.Any number of horses can take this and how the race will pan out is anyone's guess, however one that catches my eye at a ridiculous price is STONE OF FOLCA. This one ran twice at last year's Royal Ascot finishing a close 4th as a 2yo in both races. Trainer John Best really does know the time of day with his sprinters and will surely have this one primed to run a big race tomorrow. Stone Of Folca, won an egg and spoon race on his seasonal debut at Folkestone and followed that up with a decent effort in the Temple Stakes at Haydock, when finishing 9th behind the well fancied Sole Power. He finished well that day after missing the break and the return to this much stiffer track will surely suit and he can finish a lot closer to Sole power this time. Theres no way he's a 50-1 shot and 3-y-o's have a pretty decent record in this race from not a lot of runners.Hopefully this one can hit the frame, staying on late.
1pt ew on STONE OF FOLCA at 50-1, with a little saver on GROUP THERAPY, who was a staying on 5th in that Temple Stakes and is a course & distance winner too.

3.45 ST.JAMES'S PALACE STAKES(GROUP 1)1 Mile Round

This is all about one horse FRANKEL, who is head and shoulders above this field. A course and distance winner when smashing the oppo in last season's Royal Lodge, he should have no problem beating this field up.The form of all his races have been boosted, including that Royal Lodge, where Treasure Beach who was beaten miles, nearly won this year's Epsom Derby. This year's efforts were boosted too, by Greenham 2nd Excelebration, winning the German 2000 Guineas and the English 2000 Guineas vanquished finishing 1st and 2nd in the Irish version. That performance by Frankel in the 2000 Guineas was simply awesome and with proven track form can break the hearts of these, Dubawi Gold and Excelebration should fill the places.
We're not going to get rich backing this on at long odds on, but just watching should be exciting enough.
2pts double with Goldikova looks a good bet.

5.00 ASCOT STAKES (Handicap) 2 Miles 4f

ZIGATO looks a great bet here.Already a course winner over 2 miles on his 2nd run this season when all he looked like was a progressive stayer in the making. Has been kept relatively fresh for this and as a close relative to the smart filly Sariska could be potentially a top notch prospect himself. Looks a cracking bet at around 5-1 as should hit the frame at least and rates a bet to nothing. 1 pt ew.

Hopefully there are a couple of nice winners in these and let the battle commence.

Happy Punting.

Randy.

2011:POTENTIALLY BEST FLAT SEASON EVER -MY TEN TO FOLLOW

To me the 2011 Flat season, really has the makings of one of the best ever and the Qipco 2000 Guineas marks the start of the quality stuff.
With some seriously good three-year-olds, from last season kept in training as older horses, taking on some potentially top notch ones this year, there should be some magical clashes later in the season when the young pretenders take on the older brigade.
With the 2011 Flat Totesport Ten To Follow Competition about to start this weekend with the Guineas meeting at Newmarket, its time to air my own particurlar fancies. Every year I have a pop at this comp and the value for money, for a season's long entertainment you will find very hard to beat. I have also set up our own version of the competition, which will give some of South London's finest bar stool tipsters a bit of fun throughout the season and ultimate bragging rights.

So here goes, my ten to go to war with and with all my hopes and dreams pinned on, are as follows;

1.FRANKEL(pictured above) a 3-y-o colt trained by Henry Cecil.
Not original but was top class last season as a 2-y-o and wrapped up a stellar season by taking the Dewhurst in convincing style.This followed his demolition job at Ascot at the QEII meeting, which marked him down as something special. There have been many of these spectacular 2-y-o's that have flattered to deceive and not delivered the goods at three, but I definitely think that this horse is not one of those.He has come out and won the Greenham this season, despite still looking green, in need of the race and having his pacemaker fail to set a strong enough pace for him to settle. The fact he still won marks him down as the real deal, he will come on stacks for that run and surely looks head and shoulders above his rivals for the 2000 Guineas. Trained by the master Henry Cecil, who rates him one of his best ever, he can mop up some top races before he clashes with his elders later in the season. I am not sure that he is an Epsom Derby horse, but that won't stop him winning some big pots this season.

2.WORKFORCE(left) a 4-y-o colt trained by Sir Michael Stoute.

A Derby and Arc winner, kept in training as a 4-y-o by a trainer who has a magic touch of improving horses as they get older is a must have selection. Shown here bravely battling on to win the Prix De L'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp, he can only get better as he ages and given his physical scope for improvement can win some top races this season. Though in the same ownership as Frankel I hope they meet in races like the Eclipse or King George later in the season. That would be a sight to behold.Will be trained to defend his Arc crown in the Autumn.  

3.MISTY FOR ME(below) a 3-y-o filly trained by A.O'Brien 

Was twice a Group 1 winner last season in the Moyglare on quick ground and the Prix Marcel Boussac on very soft ground, showing herself as very adaptable. Definitely one to watch this season and should run very well in the 1000 Guineas this weekend.Whether she will be ready first time up, is one thing, but she should go close as all she did was improve last backend. Beat the smart Helleborine on her final start last year and with her normally slow starting stable in good form early this season has got a real chance in the fillies classic. Could develop into an Oaks filly, either here or in Ireland.

4.RODERIC O'CONNOR a 3-y-o colt trained by A.O'Brien
There was no shame in finishing 2nd to Frankel in last season's Dewhurst as he did pull clear of the third that day and wasn't beaten too far. Went on to win a Group 1 in France after that run, despite hanging all the way to the line.Can only improve this year and though should run well in the 2000 Guineas where he should finish in the first three, I think 1m2f plus will be his trip. Like his chance in the Epsom Derby as looks more likely than Frankel to be suited by that course as he is not overly big.

5.SEVILLE a 3-y-o colt trained by A.O'Brien
Ran a cracker to finish 2nd to Casamento in last season's Racing Post, where he stayed on really well over the mile trip that day. Bred to stay middle distances, I think this one can go really well in either the English or Irish Derby's, but actually fancy him to develop into a serious St Leger horse later in the season.

6.CANFORD CLIFFS a 4-y-o colt trained by R.Hannon
What a top notch miler this one was last season and added to the way jockey Richard Hughes rides him, is as good a traveller in a race, that I can remember.Will surely win a decent prize this season and races like the Lockinge and the Sussex Stakes are his for the taking.

7.GOLDIKOVA a 6-y-o mare trained by F.Head
Admirable French mare who won some really top races last season, this year will be geared up much the same, with all roads leading to another Breeder's Cup bid. Can shine at Royal Ascot and Longchamp in what could be her final season before heading off to the paddocks to stud.

8.LILY OF THE VALLEY a 4-y-o filly trained by J.C.Rouget
Top class French filly last season which included a stylish win in the Group 1 Prix De l'Opera getting up late to win easier than the winning margin showed. Her style of running tells me she should stay 1m4f and this one can land some nice races in her native France before coming over for Royal Ascot. Can clean up against her own sex.

9.SO YOU THINK a 5-y-o colt trained by A.O'Brien
Aussie superstar who ran an absolute cracker to finish 3rd in the Melbourne Cup last year over the 2 mile trip. However his best trip could be 1m2f, a distance he hasn't been beaten over yet. Bought by connections out of Australian legend Bart Cummings' stable to run in Europe, he must be a strong fancy to win some top class Group 1 races. Trainer Aidan O'Brien has excelled with Aussie imports in the past such as Haradasun and Starspangledbanner.

10.WIGMORE HALL a 4-y-o gelding trained by M.Bell
A real definite improver and can progress into an established Group 1 performer. Started this season in great fashion winning a Group 2 in Meydan and even though the 3rd that day Presvis has turned the form around in a Group 1 since, I think Wigmore Hall was unlucky in running that day.Due to run in Sha Tin in a Group 1 on Sunday and can hopefully run well before running in some top class races in Europe this summer.Can see this one catching out a few of the established stars and get better and better as he gets older.

RESERVE: SNOW FAIRY a 4-y-o filly trained by E.Dunlop
Would have made the original ten but has suffered an injury which will keep her out until Royal Ascot at least in June. A tough filly who won four Group 1's in four different countries last season,she is likely to improve with age and will be one to keep on the right side later in the season. Her performances last year mark her down as an exceptional talent and she can follow in the hoofprints of the great Ouija Board who was also trained by Ed Dunlop. We can sub her in in July.

So there you have it, a finer team I doubt you will see! Well thats what I always feel before the comp starts,anyway! I am sure these will pay their way and hope to make a profit out of them, but whatever happens, it will be interesting to see how they perform. This is surely my year.
You can follow my tips on the great Olbg tipping site, where there are real cash prizes on offer for free, as well as a great community feel to the website. Just google Olbg and sign up.
Also if you like the photos, please check them out on my website Randy Rann's Racing Images (http://randyrannracing.foliopic.com/).

Good luck and enjoy the races.

Randy Rann.

CHOISIR, SIR BOB & PLANT POTS.

With the World Cup 2010 now underway and with Royal Ascot on the horizon, I feel now is the right time to tell the following story about a day out at the Royal meeting a few years back. The memories still make me smile and I feel like sharing it so others hopefully may enjoy it too.

It was back in 2003, when the Cannons Gym I was a member at organised a day out on the opening day of the Royal Ascot meeting. The deal was meet up at the club for a bucks fizz breakie, coach trip to Ascot, ticket included, party in the the coach park, more food & drink and a coach ride home, now who could ask for more for £100?

The wife was angling for a ticket, but I'd already made other arrangements.

I didn't really know many people at the gym so thought it would be a good way of getting to know some of the other members.

I went down one day to book the tickets and the girl behind the desk took my money and that of my guest.

"You're going to enjoy yourself, plenty of champagne and fit single women" I was told.

"I'm not into that sort of thing." I told her, meaning I was a happily married, father of two.

"Who are you bringing?"I was asked.

"My friend Corey." I told her.

"Corey & Randy?" she questioned me, giggled and gave her mate a knowing glance.

As I walked away, I thought to myself, they think I'm bloody gay! But to be fair to them, Corey & Randy, not the butchest of names!

Corey was a workmate, over from Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia on a working holiday and seemed pretty stoked(as they say in Oz) to be my guest. He had been a young Joey Socceroo, which is an Australian equivalent of an England Youth team footballer. He even played in the same team as a few of the Aussie boys who made it in the Premiership, including ex-Liverpool player Harry Kewell.
The big day arrived and we met up at the club, champagne breakfast, intros and team photo out of the way we boarded the coach.

On the coach, looking through the card, Corey noticed CHOISIR, Trainer Paul Perry, Australia. A horse running in The King's Stand, from his bloody hometown, how bizarre was that. we told anyone who would listen on the coach, we had inside info due to Corey being from Oz and Choisir was fancied.

Once at the track we were left to our own devices and went off to have a mingle in the crowds and have a drink. We went down to the paddock to have a look at the field for The King's Stand and check out Choisir. What we saw was amazing, the horse was a huge specimen, a real bruiser and he looked head and shoulders above the rest. But I had a doubt. Choisir had a lot of weight to carry and had come from the other side of the planet. I really fancied Oasis Dream, who I thought was the class horse.

Anyway the race went off and Johnny Murtagh cut across to the rail and booted Choisir into the lead, soon clear I said to Corey, he's won this! Powering along he just kept going and was still clear approaching the last. The rest of the field could not land a blow, Choisir stayed on strongly and won as he liked. Oasis Dream only third. I could not believe what I had just witnessed. All the signs were there, the coincidences, the fact he was the daddy in the paddock and I still never backed it! What a wally. Corey on the other hand was ecstatic, not only had he backed, it had won at 25-1, he was delighted. Whilst I was chuffed for him, I was also gutted, I had looked this gift horse straight in the mouth, took a photo of it and still believed it was to good to be true. My angry feeling was further fuelled when I noticed Choisir paid 37-1 on the tote. Nice one.

The day carried on like that, I never backed a winner, Corey nailed another one and was well up for the day.

We were having a drink and reflecting on the day, when I noticed a fella staring at us menacingly. He came over with the right hump and told Corey that his girlfriend could not keep her eyes off him and he was obviously getting agitated. We made a swift exit, but at least Corey's ego had a rub.

After a brief sing-song at The Bandstand we were walking back to the coach when we noticed a bit of a throng, as we neared we could clearly see it was the great Sir Bobby Robson, ex-England Manager, Newcastle( no not the NSW one!) United FC legend and all round good egg signing autographs for a group of young kids.

"Hello Sir Bob, can I grab a photo?" I asked.

"No problem." He said.

Corey jumped in and I got a snap, then handed the camera to a girl to take one of the three of us. But Sir Bob wasn't having any of it.

"You had your photo, cheeky". He said.

"But I wasn't in it, come on Sir Bob." I replied.

"You only asked for A photo!"He told me.

I couldn't believe it, but he was technically right and who was I to argue with the legend that is Sir Bob. I am not sure if he was joking, but didn't press it and we left, with me rueing another missed opurtunity, at least Corey was laughing.

Back at the coach we were hailed as heroes tipping up a 25-1 winner, I didn't let on I never had a bean on it and revelled in the glory instead.

By the time we got back on the coach, I was in a right state, tired and emotional is what they call it.

The coach dropped us of in Sutton and we decided to have a nightcap in the pub by the station before Corey went back up to North London. We said our goodbyes and I decided to walk/stagger home, big mistake. Thats when it went blank.

My next memory was being dropped off at home by someone in a pick-up type 4x4 with the wife giving me verbal.

The gentleman had found me knocked out in his front garden amongst the plant pots. I'd apparently fell over his front garden wall and hit my head on a garden ornament, the racket I made disturbed him and his wife. They went through my mobile phone, found the home number and rang the wife to tell them what had happened and brought me home. I got some homecoming I can tell you, that night. To this day I have never seen, heard or spoken to that gentleman, but all I vaguely remember is his grey hair. all I can say is thanks, he was my guardian angel that night.

Corey called the next day to see if I'd got home okay and thank me for taking him to the races, giving him one of the most enjoyable days he'd ever had. I can still here him laughing after I'd told him about my little adventure.

I was rough for days and was only just getting back to normal, when on the Saturday me, the wife, the kids and I were invited to a close family friend's wedding. It was in deepest, darkest Sussex and miles from anywhere. It was an early start, church do in London and then coach down to the castle for the reception. I was a little peeved I was missing the last day's racing at Ascot and didn't have a bet, as I like to watch the race if I have had a punt. I was enjoying the wedding and spending time with the family and was definitely building bridges after the Ascot day out shenanigans.

Well, I was enjoying the wedding, until my mobile phone beeped and there was a text from Corey.

"GO GO CHOISIR, YA GOOD THING! Were you on?"

No I bloody wasn't! I snuck off and rang him, The Mighty Choisir, the Aussie speedball had only gone and doubled up by winning The Golden Jubilee at 13-2. He'd won again, just four days later, I couldn't believe it. Corey was chuffed and he couldn't believe that I hadn't backed it again. What a wally. I was gutted another missed opportunity. The feeling a punter gets when he misses a winner is hard to explain to people who don't bet, but I just wanted to scream and I was inside. Well, at least Corey was laughing again, as he does every time he looks at the blown up photo that I gave him, as seen above.

Its always just before Royal Ascot starts that invokes the memories of Choisir, Sir Bob and plant pots. I know Corey is grateful, that I took him and not the wife and for him all the memories are all good. Me though, I still grimace when I think about my tales of woe.

Still, they do say its better to give than to receive.

I'll take their word on that one.

Yours

Randy.