Horse Racing Results for August 2008

SUNDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 31st:

CURRAGH RESULTS

Finsceal Beo should not be judged on her third in the Listed event for fillies. Jim Bolger seems to have a problem with assimilating going. Finsceal Beo does not act on soft (which this was); she needs fast ground. Talk of her being retired after a pointless run is premature.

Again continued to enhance her reputation with a win in the Moyglare Stud Stakes. She looks a natural for the Fillies’ Mile at Ascot but may not be as effective on fast ground.

Look Busy has had a terrific second-season and capped it with her win in the Group 3. It was disappointing to see Chief Editor finish a laboured last of the six runners. He has talent but is fragile.

DEAUVILLE RESULTS

Laa Rayb was an emphatic winner of the Group 3. His French opponents seem to have run to form with the useful Athanor beaten five lengths back in second.

The victory of Getaway over Doctor Dino in the Group 2 Grand Prix de Deauville keeps the Prix de L’Arc dream alive for connections. He finished fourth in the Longchamp event last year and seems to have progressed by a few pounds since. However, it should be emphasised he was receiving 4lbs from Doctor Dino here and only won a length. Even a charitable estimation of this only makes him the same horse as Doctor Dino who is a thoroughly consistent and honest performer, just short of Group 1 level. It is unlikely Getaway will finish much closer in this year’s Arc than he did in last year’s.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 30th:

SANDOWN RESULTS

Habitual loser, Barshiba let her supporters down once again in the Listed event. This time she pulled too hard but was never going to win; she really is bad news. Shabiba found reward for her consistency with a clear-cut victory over the improving Ada River. Being fillies, there were a couple of disappointments, none more so than Selinka, visored for the first time, which should have sent out the appropriate warning signals.

The Group 3 Solario Stakes, won by the Oasis Dream colt Sri Putra, was, at least to my eye, another juvenile event that lacked sparkle. The winner came into this having won a Newbury maiden that hardly looked up to Group standard. Perhaps he has improved markedly and whilst smart, he may struggle when pitched against the big guns. The Cheka had won his Ascot maiden by a long way and travelled like the winner for most of today’s journey. He did change his legs inside the last furlong but was only a neck in front of Patrician’s Glory with Talking Hands back in fourth. That does not rubber stamp this as a race. Prince Seigfried may not have stayed at this level, Instalment was slowly away but finished too close to the principals for comfort whilst Cry Of Freedom failed to fire. Not a satisfactory renewal of an event that threw up Raven’s Pass last season.

In the Class 2 Handicap,

Ask The Butler got the better of Lang Shining who is surely a better horse on easy ground. Swop may not have stayed the ten-furlong trip in third and can return to winning ways back at a mile. Tazeez finished encouragingly in fourth.

Hoh Hoh Hoh snatched the Class 2 Sprint Handicap in the last stride in what was a packed finish that largely contained the usual suspects. Cake may have been slightly unfortunate not to have made the firing line. She rattled home fast and late to take fifth after meeting trouble over a furlong out. A mark of 91 gives her prospects of winning a decent event before the end of the season.

The Class 4 Handicap over five was a messy affair with the first three surprisingly coming down the near rail. This form may not travel that well and Muftarres could be worth another chance.

CHESTER RESULTS

Red Gala got back on the winning trail in the Listed event. The ground was right for him and his form over this track with Macarthur put him in with the same chance as Speed Gifted, who was brought down. Red Gala was always moving well and would probably have won anyway. Strategic Mount ran a personal best in second ahead of Cool Judgement and Mull Of Kintyre who was given a lot to do round this sharp track.

The win of Furnace paid tribute to the riding skills of Hayley Turner. Drawn badly, as he was at Great Leighs last time, it was hard to be confident of his chances here but he grabbed the lead close home from course specialist, Vanderlin.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 29th:

SANDOWN RESULTS 

The nursery that opened the card was won by the cleverly campaigned Mythical Blue who had been bought from a seller, run twice over seven furlongs and now was able to follow up on a Newmarket win over the minimum, a trip that on breeding was obviously what this Acclamation colt required. It was a tight run thing but the winner looked as if he may have more to offer. The place horses anchor the form to a degree. Well-touted Aakef was badly drawn but on this evidence will need to raise his game considerably next time. He certainly does not look like a suitable ride for Richard Hills.

Anmar provided a much-needed winner for Godolphin in the first division of the Class 4 Maiden. They finished in a heap and cases can be made for several on the evidence of their runs, meaning either it was a good race choc-full of potential winners, or several were flattered. Judging by the slow time, it would appear the latter is the case, although Liberation did overcome plenty of traffic to snatch third and looks to have a future.

Summers Target was all the rage in the second division. He did little wrong, just getting collared close home by a filly, Brief Candle. Again, the time was slow but bettered the earlier division by two seconds.

The Class 4 Handicap for three-year-olds contained several attractively handicapped types. It looks like a race that will throw up winners. None more so that FALCATIV who looks as if he will better his third next time. Spotted at Haydock, he has stepped up considerably on his fifth there and chances are next time we see him he will not be apprentice-ridden. His current mark of 71 looks likely to be adjusted to a possible 75 but that will should not stop him winning now he knows what is expected. He looks the sort to run up a sequence.

FEVER, a typical Mick Easterby purchase, is showing signs of running into form. A former inmate of the Hannon stable, his fourth at Hamilton can be bettered at this level next time.

SALISBURY RESULTS 

Supporters of Rainbow View for next year’s 1,000 Guineas will be heartened by the success of Snoqualmie Girl in the Listed Race. She may have been slightly fortunate to win as ON OUR WAY was messed about in running and gaining hand over fist at the line. A fine colt with plenty of substance, he should continue to improve and can add to his Sandown success at this level before the close of play. It would be no surprise to see him follow the same path taken by Twice Over and be targeted for the 1m 2f race at Newmarket on Cesarewitch day.

Star Rocker had finished two places ahead of Falcativ at Haydock, but his defeat in the maiden demonstrated how much improvement Falcativ has made. Star Rocker looked short of toe having travelled strongly and may benefit from a step up in trip.

MENEUR looked all over the winner in the Class 5 Handicap but lacked a closing punch. Bought from France, presumably to go hurdling, he should pick up a Flat race en route especially when the ground eases.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 28th:

AYR RESULTS

Amicus Meus made no mistake this time after a couple of attempts at Newmarket. The drop in grade, the step up in trip and the easy ground all seemed to help and he ran out an easy winner of the Class 4 Handicap. This was his fourth run in quick succession after an injury. There is always that doubt lurking over such animals but he has size and substance and may defy a weight rise if his handler can resist the temptation to run him too quickly.

GREAT LEIGHS RESULTS

Diriculous was recording his seventh win on an artificial surface when gobbling up the Class 3 Handicap with ease. Clearly, Polyrack brings out the best in him but he has also won at Southwell. It would seem advisable for connections to restrict him to all-weather tracks in which case a lucrative winter campaign looks assured.

Slam, who has never really fulfilled his juvenile promise, won a decent handicap when narrowly getting the better of Acrostic. The pair were clear of Born Tobouggie who is considered better than this by her connections. She has a habit of hanging to her left and if they can literally straighten her out, she may make her presence felt in stronger company. As it is, she ended up full of running and is almost unrideable in a finish.

LINGFIELD RESULTS

FLEETING STAR is worth noting for a nursery. She took time to warm up in the maiden but finished nicely on top. She should not be unduly treated by the handicapper but appears as a filly with more to offer.

WEDNESDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 27th:

AYR RESULTS

Tartan Gunna may be no star but can better his run in the maiden. A slow-starter, he did produce a challenge of sorts but it petered out. A sounder surface would suit him better and he should know more next time.

GREAT LEIGHS RESULTS 

Riggins won the Class 3 Handicap with some authority and maintained an unbeaten, if somewhat protracted run, of two wins in eighteen months. A split pastern kept him away from the track for so long and long-term plans include a possible pop at the Cambridgeshire. One assumes he will always be suited by this surface and that he will not appreciate extremes on turf.

TUESDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 26th:

GREAT LEIGHS RESULTS

City Stable has been called a few less than complimentary names by his yard. He does travel comfortably in his races but often fails to produce as much as expected. On the evidence of his win in the Class 4 Handicap over 1m 6f, he is not a quickener but showed plenty of courage to get up from what looked like an unpromising position turning in. Currently rated 77, he could negate a rise if stepping up to two miles as staying looks his strong suit. By Machiavellian, this may be his surface. Runner-up, Natural Action attempted to make all but was clear of the third horse. In this sphere, his second last time to Swords is looking half-decent form.

RIPON RESULTS

Rose Street repaid her trainer’s patience when winning the Class 3 Handicap. A fine-sized filly, she took some time to assert. Ten furlongs does look a minimum for her and she may be capable of better.

MONDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 25th:

KEMPTON RESULTS

Blow Hole ran well enough in the Class 5 Handicap to serve notice a win is close. He may benefit from a step up to a mile but, after only four runs, he is gradually getting there. Warsaw and Many Volumes won above average events. Warsaw, an ex-Aidan O’Brien inmate, is now with the excellent Mike de Kock. A mark of 100 seems high enough and few opportunities will present themselves on Polytrack. It may be some way off, but he looks the sort to win races in Dubai. Many Volumes looks an uncomplicated and reliable sort. Tomintoul Flyer continues to give the impression he wants dropping back in trip.

WARWICK RESULTS

Cigalas belatedly won his maiden. He beat a modest bunch but with some authority and may be able to make his mark in handicaps.

SUNDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 24th:

DEAUVILLE RESULTS

The Group 1 Prix Morny invariably provides a pointer as to how the juvenile pecking order is shaping. After the win of Soul City in last week’s Listed event, it was British form that once again dominated. On what we have seen so far the French colts look moderate, but of course there is time for that statement to be stood on its head. Bushranger, who had run with credit at Royal Ascot and behind Mastercraftsman at the Curragh, gave the Phoenix Stakes winner a major boost with a hard-fought success here, coming with a determined and powerful last furlong thrust to deprive Gallagher in the last hundred yards. Gallagher was strongly fancied to win this and very nearly pulled it off. He is improving with every run. Lord Shanakill kept on for third. Best of the home team was Milanais who made up a tremendous amount of ground in the last furlong from a hopeless position. The once-raced Naaqoos ran all right in fifth but Silver Frost, after two promising wins, looked short of this standard.

The other major race was the Group 2 Darley Prix Kergolay. Coastal Path was a disappointment, fading tamely. Having set himself up as a possible for top honours this year prior to a misplaced tilt at the extreme Ascot Gold Cup distance, the edge may have been taken from him. Certainly, the spark we had seen previously was missing. Ponte Tresa, always a force in staying events, pounced late to deprive Mad Rush close home. This was a particularly good effort from Mad Rush who, facing his hardest task to date, went down with all colours blazing. Hi Calypso had her ground and, an autumn filly, shaped as if she is running into form. Royal And Regal ran poorly considering he so much going for him.

On the domestic front, it was just another day at the office with little worth recording.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 23rd:

NEWMARKET RESULTS

In the maiden, form horse Invincible Heart, who was fourth to Wingwalker on his debut, lacks size and scope and the fact he failed to build on that run should not mark down Wingwalker’s form as it is working out well. HUNTDOWN, a taking son of Elusive Quality, went within a whisker of winning. He should be capable of bettering this before long.

The victory of Infamous Angel in the Group 2 Lowther did not look that obvious beforehand. However, she was backed to win and squeezed home in a tight finish. At this level, Penny’s Gift and Langs Lash anchor the form to a degree. Danehill Destiny put a dreadful run in the Queen Mary behind her and may be approaching a return to form. On this evidence, it appeared she failed to stay the extra furlong and a return to the minimum may suit.

Cat Whistle is on a winning mark just now and this is her time of year. The opposition in the Class 3 Handicap was too hot for her but, returned to the north and upped in trip to a mile, she ought to win a race before the end of the month or at the beginning of September.

Edge Closer made the most of his favourable draw to land the Listed event despite his 3lbs penalty. STRIKE THE DEAL did well to get as close as he did from the low draw of 4, whilst Winker Watson looks like  he is in no man’s land at present.

Duke Of Marmalade extended his sequence for the year to five in emphatic style in the rerouted Juddmonte. Not the strongest of Group 1’s, something that is being said a lot this year, he comfortably held his Eclipse adversary, Phoenix Tower. Under the circumstances, New Approach probably did well to finish as close as he did as he had the race lost after a hundred yards. He pulled much too hard, only settling at halfway. This is a trait he cannot afford at this level.

DEFECTOR, a big rangy son of Fasliyev, is getting better with each run. Although always being contained by Dark Lane, he was closing at the line the Class 2 Stakes and looks the sort to continue to make progress.

GOODWOOD RESULTS

Patkai’s run in the Gordon Stakes was a far cry from his impressive win in the Queen’s Vase and he has been deposed at St Leger favourite. Centennial, winner of the Sandown Classic Trial, made just about all to hold Top Lock and Scintillo. There is no doubting the winner’s determination but he does not inspire as being a Group 1 winner.

Tungsten Strike’s victory in the March Stakes should have been flagged-up. He won the race last year, likes the track, and battled on strongly at the age of seven to deny Petara Bay in the closing stages.

Raven’s Pass gained an overdue first success of the season in the Celebration Mile. He was another to make all but, although his class saw him home, the suspicion remains that a mile in top company may find him out.

FANTASIA is a filly tipped to reach stardom. Her win in the Prestige Stakes was cosy and connections are adamant the best of her is yet to come.

BEVERLEY RESULTS

MONEYCANTBUYMELOVE can do much better than he showed in the maiden. The ground was plenty soft enough and his jockey was markedly easy on him throughout.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 22nd:

NEWMARKET RESULTS

Purple Sage, an eyecatcher last time on this track, does not appear to have taken any steps forward on the evidence of her run in Div 1 of the Fillies Maiden. Switching her tail to post (she may have been in season) she ran all right in fourth but, as befits a daughter of Danehill Dancer, has a rounded action which suggests this fast ground did not suit. It is too early to write her off just yet. Money for Anice Stellato proved well founded. Although by Dalakhani, she handled the ground well and looks a decent sort. A late foal, she looks more of a three-year-old. Back in fifth and staying on nicely, a tenderly handled MOOTEEAH looks the one to note from the also-rans.

The next division of the maiden looked stronger. Golden Stream who was weak in the betting is a fine-looking daughter of Sadler’s Wells. There was a lot to like about her win. Uvinza missed the break and did well to take second, although she was ridden throughout and may not step up much on this run. Midday, who had shaped with promise at Goodwood, is not over big and could only manage third. She did not have the best of draws on a day when it appeared the centre was he place to be. Even so, it is hard to see her overturning this run with the winner. This is as good as she is at present.

The Group 1 Yorkshire Oaks provided Lash Lashes with an opportunity to lay the ghost that she does not stay a mile-and-a-half. Although by Galileo, there is a distinct lack of stamina on the dam side and she does posses a lot of toe for a middle-distance performer. Dwarfed in the paddock by several of her opponents, most notably the pick, Passage Of Time, Lush Lashes came from a fast pace to win with something in hand. She stays no question and, having won the Coronation, her record speaks for itself. Dar Re Mi lacked the turn of foot but battled on; Michita got warm beforehand but there were no excuses in third while Passage Of Time failed to pick up. Not as strong a Group 1 as it could have been; but won by a very good filly.

The St Leger yearling Stakes confirmed that low-drawn runners were at a disadvantage. Perfectly positioned Elnawin drew clear from stable-companion Bonnie Charlie. Frognal in third justified an each-way call from the Meehan stable who warn they expect a hatful of juvenile winners in the coming weeks. Damien stepped up on his first run at Windsor in fourth. The two-year-olds we have seen so far this year have failed to convince they are anything but an ordinary crop.

The Group 1 Nunthorpe went to Borderlescott, proving that perseverance can pay off. This was his day at this level, defeating the globetrotting National Colour and Kingsgate Native. With so many under-achieving here, it is difficult to raise too much enthusiasm.

DELEGATOR paid a second compliment on the day to Wingwalker. He had finished second to that colt on his only run to date, whilst the third won at Newbury. Delegator won this Class 4 maiden that historically has a good record for throwing up winners. Strongly fancied by his stable, he won easing down having travelled well throughout. He always had his field covered and won with more authority than the official margin suggests. The runner-up, Palavicini should win his maiden without any problem. Four Winds was similarly pleasing in third whilst the Street Cry colt, Contretemps, was another who should not be long in opening his account. The time may not have matched that of the fillies’ maidens but this was a good-looking field.

ASKAR TAU continues to raise his game. His win in the Class 3 handicap being a far cry from his debut win at Haydock. Defying a mark of 82 here, he beat some useful types and could have more to offer.

NEWBURY RESULTS

The Median Auction Maiden looked no more than average.  Felday and Latin Tinge came clear without either suggesting they will do anything exciting in the future.

The rescheduled Gimcrack Stakes featured two big disappointments. Marine Boy, after such a promising start to his career, looked as if he had done well, was backed accordingly but went out very tamely. Already gelded and a son of One Cool Cat, it appears he is following the worst of the family traits. Art Connoisseur was saddled with a 3lbs penalty; even so, he never threatened to play a part. A well-grown early juvenile, physically, he has been caught up by later developers and we may have seen the best of him. The result was a triumph for the north: Shaweel beating Master Noverre and Jobe. For a Group 2, this looked below standard.

The second division of the Median Auction looked stronger than the opening one both before and after the race. Midnight Cruiser had finished third to Wingwalker at Newmarket and sprinted clear here. One of the nicest looking beforehand, Melange, travelled well until two out when finding very little.

The Ebor, or equivalent, over half-a-furlong shorter than the original at York, went to All The Good who put a desperate Ascot run behind him. Tropical Strait, Pevensey and Young Mick, all seasoned campaigners at this level ran to form, whilst, for a small horse, Yellowstone ran a corker from top weight.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 21st:

GREAT LEIGHS RESULTS

FURNACE is worth bearing in mind for a handicap. Drawn wide in the Class 3 over a mile, Hayley Turner got him across but at the cost of ground forsaken. Far from disgraced in sixth in a competitive handicap, this was only his second run of the year and he should do better next time.

TUESDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 19th:

BRIGHTON RESULTS

It would be unwise to take the run of Night Lily literally in the Auction Median Stakes. But irrespective of running no sort of race and finishing last, for a filly with form tie-ins with Rainbow View the mere fact she was entered for such an ordinary target does not bode well for the Newmarket form. A further clue will be provided when Purple Sage reappears later in the week.

MONDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 18th:

LINGFIELD RESULTS

Meydan Dubai looks like one to avoid. He had his chance in the four-runner maiden after some half-decent efforts in handicaps, but was the first beaten, finishing a tame last.

WAR NATIVE is held in very high regard by his trainer, Jeremy Noseda who explained the object of bringing him there was to try and teach him to race. Still green, War Native came late to beat modest opposition but apparently is destined to achieve better.

SWORDS gained compensation for his defeat last week with a cosy victory in the Class 6 Handicap. He stays and travels well.

SUNDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 17th:

DEAUVILLE RESULTS

TAMAYUZ served notice that he is to be a force reckoned with for top autumn honours when taking the Group 1 Jacques le Marois from Natagora. This is proper Group 1 form that puts him on a par with Henrythenavigator. Natagora continues to run well at this level. She ought to get back on the winning trail before the end of the season, particularly if in competition with her own sex.

SOUL CITY made surprisingly short work of his Listed opponents on the same card. The race he won at Newmarket has taken a knock or two but this son of Elusive City beat what looked like only modest sorts.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 16th:

NEWBURY RESULTS

Whispering Angel may have won the Usk Valley Stakes in the paddock but this imposing son of Hawk Wing found little in the track. Like his sire, he flattered to deceive and the jury is out. CRY OF FREEDOM, a good-looking but not as substantial son of Street Cry, made all and kept finding when challenged.    MUSTAQER made a highly satisfactory debut in second while Jazz Police, by Beat Hollow, will be more effective on a faster surface.

SIXTIES ICON looks to be back to his best. He battled on strongly to foil Tempelstern in the Geoffrey Freer. The runner-up is a good horse on this sort of ground and deserves compensation. Donegal did the form of Conduit no harm when representing his generation with honour in third. Eastern Anthem became another Godolphin failure, whilst this trip was on the sharp side for Geordieland and Peppertree Lane ran no race at all.

PACO BOY continues to impress and won a weak Group 2 Hungerford Stakes with an electric burst of pace. He has a most pleasing attitude and seven furlongs suits him well. Al Qasi was readily dismissed in second and Beaver Patrol ran a stormer over a trip that was probably too far. The winner may run in the Group 1 at Longchamp over the same trip in October, or take his chance in America. He is unbeaten this year, except for when meeting trouble in running over a mile in the French Guineas, and is a credit to team-Hannon.

GLEN MOLLY who was second to Marine Boy, scrambled home in the fillies maiden that did not look to contain too much quality.

NEWMARKET RESULTS 

MISS TANGO HOTEL made a strongly-fancied Greensward pull out all the stops in the maiden. The winner will find life tougher now but the filly looks nailed on for her maiden.

RIPON RESULTS

DEADLY SECRET almost fell over with effort in the Horn Blower Stakes in his

attempt to catch Zuzu, to whom he was conceding 5lbs.This was a creditable effort from the runner-up who will surely gain compensation before long.

CONFUCHIAS, a smart performer last year, ran a race full of promise for Kevin

Ryan finishing fifth in the Great St Wilfred. He was in front of his group on the

unfavoured stands’ side and will not need to improve much on this to win a similar race before the end of the season. The Portland at Doncaster could be an ideal target.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 15th:

NEWBURY RESULTS

The Class 3 Handicap over short of fourteen furlongs looked to be at the mercy of the three-year-olds, Manyriverstocross and Woolfall Treasure. Both were backed to the exclusion of their older rivals. This is the time of year when the Classic generation should be mopping up such events but so far it is not happening. Having made the running, Manyriverstocross dropped out tamely and Woolfall Treasure could only plug on over this extended trip. Tropical Strait, who has always been held in high regard by his stable, was produced two out and soon had the race under control. This did not look a strong handicap.

It may be unwise to take the run of SHYRL literally in the Listed St Hugh’s Stakes. Her Queen Mary second was in a race that is suspect. Even so, she is better than her fourth here. She patently hated this ground and was all at sea when asked to pick up. With some valuable nurseries forthcoming, she may just have a chance in one of them, particularly if her current rating of 101 is altered.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 14th:

SALISBURY RESULTS

I AM THE BEST did not appear to stay the seven-furlong trip in the Maiden Auction. His overall form hints at much better than this but as a race, this contest was only average and it could be he will get into a nursery lightly. He is not one to write-off just yet.

ORDNANCE ROW runs this track well, which enabled him to win the Group 3 on ground that suited. It was also in Redford’s favour but, although not beaten far, he failed to pick up against this stronger opposition. Third Set’s poor run in fifth should be forgiven as all his best form is on a faster surface.

SANDOWN RESULTS

Staged a below-average card by its standards. Censored looked just about the highlight. Another success for Pivotal, she won the maiden with ease and may be capable of progressing.

WEDNESDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 13th:

SALISBURY RESULTS

Neither division of the Class 4 maiden looked anything other than ordinary. The first division won by Princess Hannah looked the weaker. Debutants, Cavera and Zero Money chased her home without setting the track on fire.

OUTOFOIL’s win in the second looked marginally better. Heliodor could only manage fourth having travelled well for most of the way. He is starting to look disappointing.

STALKING SHADOW just lasted in the Class 4 handicap. This time he displayed none of the undesirable characteristics that seemed so disconcerting at Thirsk. By now, the ground was deteriorating but this son of Storm Cat held on in the face of a late thrust from Acrostic.

LADY DEAUVILLE gained deserved compensation in the Listed event. She is at her best on soft ground and stayed this trip of ten furlongs well. Sweet Lilly, whose best runs have all been in defeat, snatched second from Cape Amber with Selinka (an autumn filly it seems) fourth.

BEVERLEY RESULTS

GREEN PARK is showing signs of running into form after his second the Class 4 handicap. Whilst the ground is in his favour, he may be able to win a similar event.

SANDOWN RESULTS

ALWAYS THERE showed sufficient improvement on her first run in the Class 5 maiden to serve notice a win should not be far away. Essentially, she looks a nursery type but one more run is required before she takes that route. The rest of the results from this card – with the ground riding soft – have to be viewed with some caution. DUNN’O received a thinking-man’s ride from the tactically aware Philip Robinson to win the Class 3 handicap. A similar ride saw the well-backed Murcar at his best in the 1m6f Class 4 handicap. He seems to stay well and may be more effective over two miles.

MONDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 11th:

WOLVERHAMPTON RESULTS

ROCKET ROB put up a game performance to win the Nursery from a mark of 62. He had been bought in for £16,000 after his Selling win at Yarmouth and proved to be a little better than that result suggested with this win.

SWORDS caught a tartar when meeting the Irish-trained Master At Arms in the Class 6 Handicap over two miles. Clear second best from his mark of 57, he may make amends in a similar contest if the handicapper does not overreact.

WINDSOR RESULTS

EXCEPTIONAL ART ran out an easy winner of the maiden, looking useful in the process. Peter Chapple-Hyam’s stable has had a lean year so far but the signs are they may be about to end in better style. This son of Exceed And Excel is in all the good events and more should be heard of him.

Diriculous may have only finished third in the handicap but he did not get the run of the race and, although he would not have won, gave notice that there may be other similar events to be found. His size does help him shoulder big weights.

ACCLAIMED looked smart when winning the maiden from French Art who frankly, allowing for the numerous chances he has had, should never have been such a short price. Acclaimed is well bred, in good hands, but, as a son of Hawk Wing, there is always a chance that he will not progress as one would assume. Plenty of Hawk Wings run their best races first time or after absences, rather like their sire. It remains to be seen if he can break that mould next time.

SUNDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 10th:

DEAUVILLE RESULTS

Anna Pavlova lacked the sparkle she often shows when conditions are right. On her favoured ground, she was never travelling well enough in the Group 2. To be fair she faced a couple of half-decent fillies on disadvantageous terms as she had a 4lb penalty. Avanti Polonia caused an upset in beating Turfose, who almost certainly failed to stay the trip. She came there to win but her breeding gave cause to doubt she would last in testing ground. She needs to return to ten furlongs. Believe Me confirmed recent form with Mrs Lindsay who does not look the same filly this year. However, as she came to hand late season, it could be a mistake to write her off just yet.

MARCHAND D’OR has faced harder tasks in his career than he did in the Group 1 Prix Maurice de Gheest. Often his style of running proves to be his biggest handicap and he gave himself plenty to do approaching the final furlong. But his class saw him through and means he has now won this event for the third time in a row. African Rose ran especially well for a three-year-old filly in second with

UTMOST RESPECT an honourable fourth. But for a trouble in running he would have been at least third. On this ground, he is a decent performer and, already a winner of a Group 3, he could add to that tally at a higher level before the season is over. US Ranger did not want to get involved today and turned in a so-so effort. He has the ability but not the will.

LEICESTER RESULTS

The Newmarket form represented by Soul City, who beat Swindler [out for the season] and subsequent winner Whispering Angel in a bunch finish last month, took a knock when Combat Zone, Aathaar and Makhaaleb all ran up to their respective merits but were beaten. Aathaar had encountered Combat Zone at Sandown but finished no closer today. Poster showed improvement on his Yarmouth form to hold a nice newcomer from the Jarvis camp in Kite Wood. A son of Galileo, the runner-up is sure to derive plenty from this experience. Of the also-rans, several took the eye. Makhaaleb was ridden as if a nursery is his immediate objective after his next outing. The same applies to Medlock and Kayfiar. Squad shaped well. This looked a strong maiden.

RACING RESULTS WEEK ENDING SATURDAY AUGUST 9th:

There was plenty of racing during the week but not too much of consequence in its first part.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 7th:

SANDOWN RESULTS

ON OUR WAY justified stable confidence when winning the maiden in taking style. The opposition did not look particularly strong but this daughter of Oasis Dream looks the sort to continue on the upgrade.

ASCOT LIME, as good a looking son of Pivotal as you could hope to find, finally achieved his first win in the Class 3 Handicap. He did it the hard way. Having been headed 100 yards out, he battled back to secure a narrow victory close home from Conquisto. There is nothing wrong with this form as Tanto Faz and Burn the Breeze in third and fourth give it a solid look. Ascot Lime won this from a mark of 77 and with the inevitable hike, will need to raise his game to win again.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 8th:

LINGFIELD RESULTS

DUBAI SAMURAI has been on a downward curve since his debut run at Ascot as a two-year-old when third to City Leader. Even so, his run in the Class 5 handicap, from a mark of 69 was too bad to be true. Regressive he may be, useless he is not. This trip of just short of twelve furlongs on turf looked to be beyond him and he finished tailed-off. By Dubai Destination, he wants dropping back to seven furlongs and possibly a return to Polytrack. There is a race in this horse, albeit possibly a claimer; in which case he looks just the sort that Mick Easterby would do well with.

MASAMAH has plenty of pace and it showed when he had the Novice Stakes won from the gate. He is still inclined to edge left but of course, a left-handed track like this was ideal. This tendency has been explained by a bone scan, revealing he has hot spots on his ribs. No, I don’t know either! However, essentially he is a speedy and useful type who, providing he gets a suitable draw in his races and the stalls are on the left-handed side of the track, can be a force against good company. Something like the Diadem at Ascot would be an obvious target. Art Preview was fancied in second but was outclassed.

NEWMARKET RESULTS 

There was a difference of opinion within the Cecil stable regarding WINGWALKER, who won the opening maiden. This did not look a strong maiden but the son of Dansili was always travelling like a winner.

MEYDAN CITY took the step up to a Class 3 Conditions Stakes in his stride to account for Siberian Tiger in comfortable style. By Command, the winner’s chief market rival, ran a lack lustre race in third.

AMICUS MEUS looked an unfortunate loser in the concluding handicap. Racing on the wrong side of the course, there was a point when it looked as if he would be out of the money but he rallied on the far rail to almost snatch it. Compensation ought to be near at hand.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 10th:

ASCOT RESULTS

The Shergar Cup, and not too much to take from the card: Dark Missile may have found the five furlong trip too sharp against the speedy Strike Up The Band. Shifting Star clearly likes Ascot and some ease in the ground. A wind operation has improved his form and he may not have hit the buffers yet. Highland Legacy, about whom Cup aspirations were once floated, seems to have lost his way judging by his run in the two mile event. Never looking happy, he had his conditions but the run in the Chester Cup (wrong track and ground) seems to have taken the edge from him. Perfect Star is a tough cookie when she gets her conditions and is in form, something she demonstrated in the Class 2 Handicap.

HAYDOCK RESULTS

On such ground, form may not stand up here that well. Multidimensional finally got his first victory of the year. Ted Durcan gave him an aggressive ride and, a proven stayer, the horse galloped on strongly. He did not look that keen in the closing stages and stronger company will always threaten to find him out.

NEWMARKET RESULTS

RAINBOW VIEW did look a little special when winning the Sweet Solera. She beat a fancied contender in the runner-up, Misdaqueya, but this was not the strongest renewal of this race. Even so, Rainbow View has an engine and it will be interesting to see how she fares against more exacting company. Snoqualmie Girl, who had finished third to her last time, franked her form when winning the later maiden tidily. The signs are that the powerful Barry Hills stable is grinding back into gear. Purple Sage made notable headway from a slow start to finish fifth under tender handling. Easy ground will always suit but she is worth bearing in mind as a maiden should be a formality.

LINGFIELD RESULTS

Seminole did not actually advertise the form of Zacinto when finishing out of the money in the maiden won by a well-backed Stirling Castle, who was suited by the extra yardage. Zacinto is quoted as a leading light in 2,000 Guineas betting but has plenty of work to do before he justifies his odds. The race he won at Sandown was not up to much and he did look very fit that day. With all the problems stables have experienced this year, it will come as no surprise if we are to see some massive market shake-ups over the coming months with the introduction of useful juveniles. So far, with the exception of Rip Van Winkle, Mastercraftsman and Rainbow View little has impressed as a potential Classic winner.

SUNDAY RACING RESULTSAUGUST 4th:

DEAUVILLE RESULTS

Zarkava has had a massive compliment paid to her this weekend by the Group 1 successes of both Halfway To Heaven at Goodwood and now Goldikova. She has trounced both fillies this season but their respective victories now make Zarkava (already favourite for the Arc in some lists) tighten her grip on international form. Goldikova – second to Zarkava in the French 1,000 Guineas and third to her in the French Oaks – beat a top class field in the Prix Rothschild. Darjina came at her hard but was unable to wrestle the prize from Goldikova.

Darjina has had a frustrating season, having been narrowly beaten at Nad Al Sheba, Royal Ascot and now Deauville. She does nothing wrong in her races and remains a filly of the highest quality. But it will be a case of all eyes on Zarkava when she reappears. Natagora finished third having made the running whilst, although a winner over a mile, on this evidence in a strongly run affair, Nahoodh would be more effective over seven.

NEWBURY RESULTS

Tom Dascombe produced another top class juvenile in the shape of Marine Boy who was a clear-cut winner of the maiden over six furlongs. This gelded son of One Cool Cat will be all the better on a sounder surface but still cleared away from a fancied Glen Molly. The first two were touted beforehand and should go on from here.

Gull Wing ran inextricably badly in the Listed event for fillies. Backed to win, she was stone last behind Ronaldsay in an otherwise bunched finish.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 2nd:

GOODWOOD RESULTS

Excuses are running thin for TOMINTOUL FLYER but he may be worth one more chance. He did not get the run of the race in the Class 3 Handicap, looked ill at ease on the track and then appeared to run out of stamina. A return to ten furlongs on a flat track may bring the desired result. He may also be better conceding weight to lesser rivals.

PERFECT STRIDE may not have liked the easy ground in the Listed event but apparently he does have two ways of working and racing, making him a tricky character to call.

HALFWAY TO HEAVEN may have been a fortunate winner of the Group 1 Nassau Stakes but she is a splendid example of Pivotal. Supporters of Lush Lashes must have felt they were witness to a slow motion car crash from some way out. The right five fillies finished in the first five but, to quote Eric Morecombe, not necessarily in the right order.

The draw played a major part in the outcome of the Stewards’ Cup with the protagonists all drawn low. This did not look to be a strong renewal of this highly competitive event.

CLOUDY START may have nearly won the maiden with a clear run. He looks a nice type and comfortably reversed Newmarket form with Holyrood. However, Holyrood looked unsuited by the track and may do better in time. He may get into a nursery lightly if that is the chosen route after his next run.

DONCASTER RESULTS

Falcativ certainly took the eye in the closing maiden won by Sortita. A good-looking son of Falbrav, this was his third attempt meaning he is now qualified for handicaps. Tenderly handled on his first start for 77 days, he will be of interest when accorded a mark. He is certainly better than his finishing position of fifth here suggests.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS AUGUST 1st:

GOODWOOD RESULTS 

GALLAGHER was out battled by Prolific in the Richmond Stakes. He looked an unlucky loser to a degree as the winner enjoyed a better run. However, Prolific is consistent and a real fighter and it is no certainty this form will be overturned if the two meet again.