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.

RITES OF SPRING:THE SPRING DOUBLE

Now that the dust has firmly settled from the fantastic spectacle that is The Cheltenham Festival, the next aspect of "The Rites Of Spring" fall squarely on the shoulders of The Lincoln and The Grand National.

To me The Lincoln, run at Doncaster marks the real start of the flat season and The Grand National marks the end of the jumps, a handover period if you like.

Being an old school punter I can never resist an ante-post poke on both, just for the fun of it.
Fresh from a wonderful Cheltenham punting, one I'm sure will not be repeated for a very long time.
Right from the minute the kind Carol from Racing Uk rang me to tell I'd won two club tickets, Stan James VIP badges and free car parking for the opening day of The Festival, in an online competition I couldn't remember entering, I knew there were strange things afoot.
The ante-post bets posted (http://randyrannracing.foliopic.com/) showed an amazing profit of 122.50 points to stakes asdvised.
The Thursday saw the punt shown on the slip landed, which paid for my week off, and I hope all three of those backed that day run again at the Aintree meeting, as I think they can all win again.
The real icing on the cake, however was landing the Olbg Cheltenham Festival Tipping Competition, with a level stakes profit of +£59.80p over the four days, not bad considering I tipped a horse in every race.
For free tips and the chance to win some prizes on the friendly Olbg site, wannabe tipsters should click on (http://www.online-betting-guide.co.uk/?tx126897)
Anyway, you can't rest on your laurels in this game and a fall normally follows such success so back to the matter in hand of trying to land The Spring Double.

First up is The William Hill Lincoln Handicap on Saturday 2nd April, run over the straight mile at Doncaster which is like a calvary charge from the off.

I like the look of GUNNER LINDLEY trained by Barry Hills, who likes to start the season with a few winners at the meeting. His string is in pretty good form and if this one gets in he must have a major chance off such a low weight. One of my favourite horses from last season he showed progressive form winning on his last start after a narrow defeat on his previous run in decent handicaps. He looks sure to improve as a 4 year old and though fitness has to be taken on trust, the form of the stable is a real positive. At the time of writing Gunner Lindley needs 5 to come out of the race to ensure he gets in and if he does, he rates a cracking ew bet at around 14-1. His trainer will always be linked with the Lincoln as this is the race that set him up with the proceeds of Frankincense's win in 1968.

A week after this we have The Grand National run over a gruelling four and a half miles at Aintree and you need a huge amount of luck just to get round in this race. A special type of horse wins the Grand National and lately classier types have won their fair share, the ability to jump and proven stamina are a must, as is a good level of form, even if you have to dig a bit to find it.

This year I do like the enigmatic TIDAL BAY at around 40-1. He is just the quirky type who could take to these unique fences and run a big race. He is likely to drop himself out and leave himself a lot to do, but with the really long run-in here, after the last, it might just suit him. He was classy enough to win an Arkle and has decent form around Aintree too, a bit of cut in the ground wouldn't go amiss either and if anywhere near the leaders approaching the last, he could reel them in late on. He ran pretty well in this year's Gold Cup again flying at the death, this extended trip, might just be what he's been looking for. Despite looking a dodgy jumper at times he has never fallen and if on a going day 40-1 looks too big a price.

Another one I like at a massive price is David Pipe's FAASEL @ 100-1. I just hope he gets into the race as he needs a few above him to come out. He ran a cracker at Cheltenham in the Kim Muir and that staying chase was always considered a good trial for The Grand National itself. He stayed on pretty well behind his well punted on stablemate Junior in that race and looks an out galloper to me. He is the right age at 10 years old and boasts some pretty good form around Aintree, he even managed to win a Grade 1 Novice

Hurdle in the past. Another one who has been questioned in the past but is a pretty safe ride and might surprise a few. Only had 2 runs this season and come here a fresh horse, I'm hoping he's been plotted up for this! 

The great AP McCoy(right) celebrating his historic win in the 2010 Grand National in the winner's enclosure onboard Don't Push It, who will follow in his footsteps this year?

Happy Punting and Good Luck

Randy.

Ashes Post Mortem.

AussieCorey said...
Randy another nice blog mate, but lets be fairdinkum here,last time you guys were here you were thumped 5-0.
Even your travelling fans were cheering for the Aussies by the end of it. My prediction for this series is 4-1 to our guys. The 1 being a token gesture because you blokes atually thought you could beat us on home soil and we will have felt sorry for you, it's the Australian Way! Plus we don't lose at home mate.
So far to say that if you guys win, I will fly over there and walk nude through Piccadilly Circus with the English Flag draped around my shoulders!
Let the battle begin
Quote AussieCorey:23 November 2010 12:58.

Will AussieCorey deliver on his pledge?

The problem with predictions are that they have a nasty habit of turning round and biting you right on the arse.
Back in November I posted my predictions on the forthcoming Ashes series and my hope to make £500.00.
Sadly I failed in that quest, however I still made a profit, a tidy +£52.50 pts to be precise.
The selections that delivered were the 1st test draw(25pts @ 14/5) and the England series win(30pts @ 7/4).
My fancy of Jonathan Trott as top England bat, went close finishing a respectable second to run machine Cookie Monster, who amazingly had the series of a lifetime with his 766 runs.
Seems somewhat incredible now that some so called experts were calling for his head before this tour!
Top Man and future Captain Cook, I applaud you.
My fancy of Broad or Swann for top England bowler went west with Broad's injury, but Swanny went well with 15 wickets however the ever more reliable Jimmy Anderson, a man who couldn't bowl in Aussie conditions,took the honours with a very impressive haul of 24. A certain ghost has been firmly laid to rest.
Top Aussie Bat prediction of Captain Ricky Ponting was way off the mark as sadly Punter was never ever at the races!
My 2-1 England series prediction was close but sadly no cigar. Even on the final, final day, I had a glimmer of a result, hoping beyond hope that some Aussie may do a Cook or Trott and bat for hours. Failing that it would piss down all day and wash out the final day's play.
To be truthful, either scenario would have been a true injustice, such was England's dominance and I think even 3-1 flattered Australia.
My great Aussie mate, posted his comments in response to that November blog and his blind faith has to be admired, however making statements, such as "If you guys win, I will walk nude in Piccadilly Circus with an English flag draped around my shouders!" are just pure quality and will lead to a lifetime of ribbing.
I have sent him a nice memento so he will never forget his bold statements, hopefully it won't be filed in the bin!
All in all it was a great Ashes series and the fact England were so far ahead makes it even sweeter, however it wasn't long ago when English cricket was as dire as the Aussies are now.
So whilst we revel in the glory, lets not too carried away, it's the English way!
Enjoy
Randy.

ASHES BANTER.....& MAKING A MONKEY! Tues 23rd November,2010.

Three Wise Men, Messrs Gatting, Hughes & Emburey.

After a stellar cricketing week, I am all fired up for the forthcoming Ashes battle and the banter that comes from having great mates in the land of Oz. Also I love punting on the series and the aim is to make a monkey, £500.00 to you, if you're not too familiar with South London chat!
With the Brisbane Test fast approaching I have finalised my punts and have put my money down. Hopefully a few of these can hit the jackpot.
Back to last week first though, a late invite from fellow Seveno cricketer, Clive Kirk, to attend a dinner in the historic Lord's Long Room was too good a one to turn down, despite the missus rolling her eyes! Another night on p**s, were here exact remarks.
A great evening was had, chaired by Simon "The Analyst" Hughes and with cricket legends Mike Gatting & John Emburey as guest speakers.
We got a great insight into the last successful tour, Down Under, from ex-skipper Mike Gatting and last man to lead a victorious England Ashes team there. It was even suggested he was thinking of food when Shane Warne's wonder ball did for him.
The following night was Seveno Cricket Club's awards night. It wasn't quite as prestigious an affair as the Lord's do, but the upstairs of The Phoenix in Denmark Hill was still a pleasant enough setting and no less enjoyable.
No cricketing awards for yours truly, but the book "The Art Of Captaincy," by Mike Brearley for quote of the year was gratefully accepted.
All of this, though was just warm up to the main event, The Ashes.
The banter with my Australian pals, has been a bit one-sided at the moment, there's not much coming back, telling me their confidence is very low.
The best I've had so far is,"We don't lose at home to you bums!"thanks Corey, for that bit of insight.
I am looking forward to the forthcoming, battle on the Internet, nearly as much as being awake at silly hours watching the action live.
Anyway, back to making some money.
The following predictions and reasons are a great way of making watching the matches more enjoyable, or painful depending how they are going. However, as the ads go, "It matters more when you've got money on it."

So here goes

First Test
Neither team is going to fancy getting off to a loss and a very tight affair is the forecast. Whoever wins the toss will probably bat first and try and rack up a big score, putting their opponents under huge pressure, thus forcing a rearguard action.
I fancy the draw at 14-5 with William Hills.
Stake 25pts

Correct Score
I fancy a couple of draws in this closely fought series, especially as there may even be a few wet days. This means three results to share and I can't see either team winning 3-0, so a 2-1 looks the right call. I think that this England team is the most prepared team to head south in recent times and look a well oiled machine to me. Even the peripheral players have been putting in decent performances. So for me its England, just.
England 2-1 at 10-1 with Corals.
Stake 20pts

Top Aussie Bat
Ricky Ponting is not going to want to go down in history, as losing three Ashes series. I fancy him to bat as if his life depends on it. With so many injuries and selection issues, he looks like the only top order batsman who will definitely play all five tests.
7-2 with william Hills looks fair.
Stake 30pts

Top England Bat
Ian Bell looks good value, but with Jonathan Trott coming in at three and very apt at batting for long periods of time, I like his odds of 9-2 with Ladbrokes.
He has shown great grit & determination in making some big scores in Test Cricket and is even respected by the Aussies, no mean feat in itself.
Stake 20pts

Top England Bowler
I like Stuart Broad's odds of 7-2 generally (4-1 with Victor Chandler's). He has wound the Aussies up and will probably play in all five tests as the main strike bowler and can take his wickets in clusters. Graeme Swann is worth a saver at 5-4 too, as you can get your stake back from your Broad bet, if he takes bundles of wickets.
Stake 10pts each Broad/Swann.

Series Betting
England at a best priced 7-4, looks a good call, as you'll still make a profit on the series bet if they win the series but not 2-1.
Stake 30pts.

So there you have it, hopefully some of these calls can hit the mark and make a profit, or more likely, they'll make a monkey out of me.

Let Battle Commence.

Yours

Randy.

TOTESPORT;TEN TO FOLLOW

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls marks our card!

2010 Champion Hurdle Winner Binocular,would like to see him in that rug again in 2011. Here he's telling Channel 4's Alice Plunkett, how he did it!

Long Run, hopefully connections will be happier this season.

MY TEN TO FOLLOW:NH SEASON 2010-11

Friday 12th November 2010.

With the Totesport: Ten To Follow about to blast off today & lists of horses flying around everywhere, I thought, everyone has an opinion, so why not share mine. Entries are all in and no-one can steal my list, thus halving my winnings!! For what its worth the following ten horses are the ones all my dreams and hopes are pinned to. I have been entering this competition since the very first one and hope, like every other single person, believe, that THIS year is finally my turn. Half a millioin quid will do very nicely! Seriously though, the way I have been tipping recently, punters may want to lay, lay, lay the lot of them!

Hopefully though, the following ten will do me justice and score loads of points. I am hoping for a shift in power away from the established stars and am pinning my hopes that a lot of lists that contain them will all go west. I will probably end up with egg on my face when Denman wins the Hennessy, Kauto the King George etc, etc..... but sometimes you have to take a risk and think outside the box.

The competition is strongly in favour towards the chasers with 10 of the 14 bonus races chase races. I reckon that 3 hurdlers and 7 chasers, was the way to go, with selections specifically targeted at as many of those bonus races as possible.

So here goes, here are my ten to go to war with, at the very least I will be logging their progress to see if a profit in punting them can be achieved.

1.LONG RUN(5yo)N.Henderson

This one could be the real deal, ran a cracker to finish 3rd, for such a young horse in the RSA at The Cheltenham Festival. Raced keenly that day and didn't quite home, but another year on will no doubt mean he's more the finished article. Looks a must have, as has early bonus race,The Paddy Power Gold Cup as his target and could even develop into a serious player in The King George at Kempton in December. Nice big scopey type who looks a top notch stayer in the making. Surely will go close in the Paddy Power Gold Cup and is a long term star in the making.

2.BINOCULAR(6yo)N.Henderson

Started season poorly last year, but really delivered when landing The Champion Hurdle last season. He could not have won that more impressively and his slick jumping was a joy to watch.if starting this season in the same form, could pick up some nice prizes on the way to defending his crown. Only a 6yo and Champion Hurdlers come back year on, year in, so there must be more to come.

3.BIG ZEB(9yo)C.Murphy

Classy and finally put his jumping in place to land The Queen Mother last season. Winners of that race come back and run well again, so looks a good bet to go close again, reminds me of Moscow Flyer,who improved with age and can pick up some nice prizes on the way back to defending his title. Not sure there is much in the way of 2 mile chasers to trouble him and Big Zeb can clean up. Won nicely on return, from an unlucky Golden silver who could be a threat, but the defending champ can only improve from that run as well.

4.GREAT ENDEAVOUR(6yo)D.PIPE

Won the Byrne Plate at last season's Cheltenham Festival in a time that was a lot faster than the Jewson & Ryanair run over the same distance on the same day. Obviously this one had a lot less weight than the winners of those races but looks a seriously progressive young chaser. Was very game that day and I liked his attitude when challenged, sticking his neck out and charging up the Cheltenham hill. Has the bonus races of The Paddy Power (looks laid out for this prize) & possibly the Hennessy as early season targets. A must have, who can hopefully develop into a very smart horse.I fancy he is one who could become a Ryanair horse himself, another bonus race.

5.TIME FOR RUPERT(6yo)P.Webber.

Developed into a smart stayer over hurdles last season and was the only horse who came anywhere near Big Bucks in the World Hurdle at Cheltenham last season, was well clear of the third that day. Will go over fences this year and has the size and scope to take to the bigger obstacles. Has no problem with stamina and will be just the right age to develop into a RSA type.

Makes fencing debut today at Cheltenham, which hopefully will be very informative.

6.NACARAT(8yo)T.GEORGE

Ran an absolute cracker when landing this season's Charlie Hall on return to action. Looks a stronger horse and bearing in mind two of the bonus races are run at Kempton, a course this horse loves, he must be included. Ran a stormer in last season's King George trying to burn off the opposition after setting a relentless gallop in that contest. Also is a past winner of The Racing Post Chase, another bonus race, means he will probably be targeted at those races again. Sound jumper and if not committed too early can make them all go in this year's King George again. Can't help thinking the best is yet to come from this dashing grey, a la Monets Garden & Desert Orchid.

7.FORPADYDEPLASTERER(8yo)T.Cooper

Suffers seconditis but is far from ungenuine and ran a cracker to finish 2nd in this year's Queen Mother considering he had an interrupted preparation. This season could step up in trip and could finally land another big pot to add to his Arkle win in 2009. Could develop into a King George horse if he can prove his stamina but also has options at shorter, must have good ground.

Runs on Sunday at Cheltenham and hopefully can make a winning start.

8.BURTON PORT(6yo)N.Henderson

Did brilliantly over fences last season. Ran a stormer,staying on strongly to finish 2nd to Weapon's Amnesty in last season's RSA(long Run in 3rd) then came out and won at Aintree, to prove he is as tough as teak. Not overly big but is as game as they come, could ruffle a few of the big guns feathers this year. Hopefully he can be this years Alberta's Run and rack up some big points. Good chance in the Hennessy if he goes there as the galloping track and stiff test of stamina will suit this strong stayer.

9.JONCOL(7yo)P.Nolan

Skipped Cheltenham last year, but has the size and scope to develop into major player in the top staying chases this year. Looks to need cut & a trip and looks the most likely for the Irish Hennessy where he will probably get both of those. That is another bonus race and this one can rack up a fair few points this season. Might make up into an outside Gold Cup horse, but whichever way he goes is an exciting prospect. Wasn't impressive on seasonal debut, but 2m trip nowhere near enough of a stamina test so entitled to improve for that.

10.ZAYNAR(5yo)N.Henderson

Ran a cracker to finish 3rd in last season's Champion Hurdle behind stablemate Binocular. It must be noted that Henderson's Punjabi and Binocular finished 3rd in The Champion the year before they came back to win the big one itself.However this one looks more of a staying type and though he has to improve massively to beat Big Bucks in the 3mile events, he can rack up a fair few points on the way to a crack at The World Hurdle. Big Bucks will be on everyone's list and will be hard to beat, but not sure he will run much and may even go chasing if Paul Nicholls' stable stars do not fire. Can always sub-in Big Bucks in the transfer window. Ascot will suit Zaynar when he makes his return and I like this one a lot.

Well there you go, my ten to follow can hopefully pay their way and give me an interest all season, where like every year, all roads lead to Cheltenham.

Good Luck & Happy Punting

Yours

Randy.

For more pics please go to Randy Rann's Racing Images( http://randyrannracing.foliopic.com/)

For all things Cheltenham check out JP Festival Flyer (http.//www.jpfestival.com)

Justin, Paddy, El Tel & all, updates of our mini-league will appear here regularly.

Carry On De Campaeo

I was saddened to read in the Racing Post yesterday, that one of my favourite horses has had his racing career cut short due to an injury. Sadly Gloria de Campeao has suffered a tendon injury and will race no more. This sad day though, brings back much happier memories of the horse and a nice couple of touches.

It was back in January earlier this year when I first came across this brave old warrior. The wife and I were going to a fancy restaraunt in West Byfleet, booked up by some friends who are well in with the owners at Trevi's.

The main attraction on that particular night was that celebrity chef and I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here, winner Gino D'Acampo was the guest chef and was putting in an appearance. All the women were falling over themselves to be there and I even had to bring the Number 1 Gino groupie, my mother-in-law.

It was a Thursday night and clashed with the grand opening of the new ultra modern, state of the art Meydan racetrack in Dubai. I wasn't planning a bet, as I knew I'd be in the restaurant with all the women agog with jungle camp winner Gino and wouldn't get to see it.

But this all changed though when a colleague from work rang me up and that he knew someone, who knew someone, who knew someone, who knew connections of English raider Without A Prayer, who was due to run in the main event. It was well fancied and was worth a bet.

I dived into the bookies, on the way home to place a bet and as I looked up the form, something strange came over me. Catching my eye on the very next line to my supposed bet was;

GLORIA DE CAMPEAO; Jockey TJ Perreira.

I can't say I'd paid much attention to this horse before, but I certainly was now.

De Campeao sounds awfully like D'Acampo and Perreira was some sort of relations name, as my mum being a Rosario, I'd heard this name mentioned before in our ancient past's Portuguese links.

Now faced with a dilemma that does a punter's head in, is, do I go with the supposed inside info or the coincidence bet. After a few minutes thinking about it, I steamed into the coincidence bet, what's the chances of seeing a horse called De Campeao on the night I'm meeting D'Acampo, not the same spelling, but say it quickly. I thieved 14-1 and went on my way. I even sent a text to my Without A Prayer tipper to tell him, get on De Campeao.

At home, I was getting the verbal from the women, we're late, where have you been, got to meet Gino....blah, blah,blah. I stalled getting ready for as long as I could, knowing the race was due off soon. The stalling worked, long enough to get to watch the race, the wife and mother-in-law getting more irate.

The race blasted off and Gloria de Campeao took up a fairly prominent position being rousted along quite vigourosly by jockey Perreira. Always up with the pace and still in about third turning for home, to my eye he looked beat as the leaders quickened, but somehow he switched inside and rallied.

Close home he hit the front and in the end won quite well. I was over the moon, I only won £195, but for some reason it felt like a lot more, maybe because of the coincidence factor. I couldn't stop laughing all the way to West Byfleet.

At the restaurant we had a good laugh with good company and a nice meal. The mother in law was like a giggly sixteen year old all around Gino, even the Mrs was getting a bit flighty! But me I couldn't stop laughing. Our friends Mike & Elaine, loved the story, but thought I was too spooky for words.

Gino was brilliant and came and spent time at our table, posing for photos and chatting. I even showed him my betting slip for a laugh.

"Why you notta tella me?" He enquired in his broad Italian accent.

"Might just about cover the dinner tonight," was my response.

After a great evening It came to the bill and for the wife, mother-in-law and myself food & drinks was paid for by the brave Gloria De Campeao.

Coincidence, fate, luck I don't know, but all I know is sometime later we were invited to dinner at Mike and Elaine's house.

Just my luck, this night clashed with the running of the world's richest ever race, The Dubai World Cup, again at Meydan. Now this time I knew Gloria De Campeao was running and lumped on at 16-1. Again stalling tactics were employed so I could watch the race before we headed off to Mike & Elaine's, who I hadn't seen since the night at Trevi's, two months earlier.

Again the wife was onto me, we're late, how long's it going to take to watch the race....blah,blah,blah.

Eventually the race was on, the horses blasted out of the stalls, Gloria de Campeao pings out and takes up the early running. After a while he still leads, after another couple of furlongs he's still leading. Turning for home he kicks on again, still in the lead. Close home he's still in the lead, now though South African horse Lizard's Desire is weaving through the field and finishing like a train.

Yards from the line, Gloria De Campeao is still in front with the South African flying, they flash past the post together in a desperate finish. To my eye the Lizard has won by a tongue!

Now the next five minutes were agonising. This time I had quite a sizeable bet on, the horse owed me nothing, in fact I owed him a meal.

The longest wait for a photo finish to be called that I can remember, the wife nagging, we've got to leave, left me even more twitchy. It seemed to take for ever, I was sure the horse was beaten, but at least I knew I'd landed the place money. This though, was smallfry compared to the real riches that awaited if we'd won. It's funny how your horse you've backed and you become a team, we as a team waited.

Then suddenly Channel 4 cut their coverage before announcing the result. Thank God for atthteraces. I switched channels, still no result. I waited & waited, wife waited & waited, still no result. Eventually the news broke, Gloria De Campeao had won by a nose! The feeling I had was utter elation, the brave Gloria de Campeao had led all the way and held on by the narrowest of margins.

Some of the so-called experts poo-pooed the form saying it was a travesty that this horse, who wasn't in the same league as previous winners had nicked the world's richest race. To me though this horse was one of the bravest I had ever seen.

I couldn't stop laughing all the way to Mike & Elaine's house. They now know I am definitely spooky!

Trying to explain the above, I can't. Luck, fate or coincidence I don't know, but all I can say is, as soon as I read about poor old Gloria's(we even nickname our favourite's as if we know them)sad injury, it brought back all of the happy memories flooding back. Without him, I would not have the above laughs.

I'm still laughing now.

A long and happy retirement, Gloria.

Yours

Randy.

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.