In light of the recent Bastiman case, racing’s rulers could usefully ensure that trainers are not over-using medicationThe written reasons for the Bastiman verdict, published on Tuesday, were extensive and helpful, as verdicts have usually been since disciplinary panels became independent of the British Horseracing Authority. But one missing thing is a general condemnation of the syringe-happy antics of Robin Bastiman, who was very clear in his evidence that he had routinely injected horses with a vitamin B12 supplement throughout his 40-year career. Related: Leading female jockey Bryony Frost back in the saddle next month Catterick 2.00 Que Amoro 2.30 Mitcd (nap) 3.00 Romaana 3.30 Perisher 4.00 Guardia Svizzera 4.30 Reveleon 5.00 Indian Pursuit Continue reading...
Laurens has the pedigree to see off Sea of Class in the Yorkshire Oaks while Angel’s Hideaway has the form to take the Lowther StakesThree-year-olds have won 11 of the 18 runnings of the Yorkshire Oaks so far this century and the betting suggests that it will be 12 of 19 after this afternoon’s renewal, when Sea Of Class, the Irish Oaks winner, will set off at around 11-8 to beat Laurens, who took the French equivalent at Chantilly in June. There is a lot to like about both of the major contenders, though it is no great surprise to find Sea Of Class at the head of the market as she beat the Epsom Oaks winner Forever Together at...
Cross Counter is surely the one to be with in the Voltigeur, while Poet’s Word can land a hot-looking Juddmonte InternationalMuch as I love taking a swing at a big-priced runner, the bet that appeals to me most on the opening day of York’s Ebor meeting is Cross Counter (3.00) at 13-8 for the Great Voltigeur. This is despite the slightly upsetting experience of napping his half-sister yesterday and seeing her finish out of the frame. Related: Poet’s Word can have the final say in Juddmonte International showdown York 1.55 Holmeswood 2.25 Watan 3.00 Cross Counter 3.35 Poet’s Word (nap) 4.15 Davy’s Dilemma (nb) 4.50 Don Armado Continue reading...
The great Ballydoyle trainer acknowledges his horses have been under the weather and it has shown in their recent resultsThere appears to be no question of Aidan O’Brien sending a reduced team over for York’s Ebor meeting, just because the yard has been a bit out of sorts. His six runners there for tomorrow’s opening card will include four of the nine runners in the Great Voltigeur; he’s saddling stars like Kew Gardens and Saxon Warrior who will make a real difference to the excitement level among punters and spectators. Related: Cracksman will be saved for October after swerving York International Hamilton 1.20 Happy Power 1.50 John Kirkup 2.20 Collide 2.50 Falmouth Light 3.20 Mable Lee 3.50 Pammi 4.20 Handsome Bob 4.55...
David Elsworth’s charge looks worth backing after his success at Glorious Goodwood while Rebel Streak could score at NewmarketMere inches saved Sir Dancealot (3.35) from being the unluckiest loser at Glorious Goodwood, after he met repeated trouble during the course of the Lennox Stakes. Gerald Mosse’s mount got just enough luck to find a clear run through in the dying strides and bounded forward to score by a short-head.That margin radically underplays the value of his performance that day and he is surely worth sticking with at Newbury today in this similar contest, even while conceding a few pounds to his rivals. David Elsworth’s charge has taken a step forward in his seven-furlong races this year. Related: Talking Horses: police...