Racing Results Aug 2009 - Horse Racing Pro

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Horse Racing Results for August 2009..

TRACK NOTES

SUNDAY AUGUST 30th:

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING RESULTS:

SUPREME STAKES (Group 3): After a brave effort against Delegator and Zacinto on Saturday, Ordnance Row returned for more, carrying too much firepower for Asset and Cat Junior to land a well-deserved success – tough or what?

Marching Time won the Class 2 handicap with something in hand. This represented a drop in grade but the trip of seven furlongs seemed to be in his favour. He may be the sort to excel giving weight to inferior opposition.

At YARMOUTH, Decorative made a good impression on debut, proving much too good for Battlemaiden and company in the fillies maiden. Apparently, she had been keeping company with top-notchers at home. She gives the impression of a filly capable of better.

The win of Jukebox Jury in the Group 2 at Deauville will fuel the fire for those keen on Monitor Closely in the St Leger. This was a weak event but Jukebox Jury is a game and consistent yardstick.

TRACK NOTES

SATURDAY AUGUST 29th:

NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:

Having fluffed the start at Salisbury but finished with plenty of promise, an improved Dafeef was a confident stable call in the Class 4 maiden. A most attractive son of Medicean, he left that Salisbury form behind but in a manner that gave some cause for concern. Pulling hard early then running across the track, he quickened for a crack to win with plenty in hand. The ability is there but it would be nice to see him settle down next time. He cannot afford to behave like this against stronger opposition. Lean Machine maintained his current run of seconds ahead of the Bahamian Bounty newcomer, Noafal. This did not look a strong maiden but, as stated, the winner has a future if learning from this.

The success story that is Exceed And Excel continued with Seek N’ Destroy who pounced late, drawing right away from a competitive field in the Class 3 handicap. Russian Jar kept on once headed, ahead of Elliptical and Legal Legacy.

A mark of 85 proved too much for Azizi but he went down fighting against Red Badge in a nursery dominated by the first two in the betting. Azizi had ground to make up from two out but stuck on, mounting a late challenge repelled by Red Badge who was winning on his fifth attempt and appeared to appreciate this extra furlong. Well beaten by Poet’s Voice last time, in finishing third from a rating of 91, Pallantes Cross paid a compliment to the Godolphin representative. Pintura was fourth with the rest well beaten off.

Hopeful Stakes (Listed): Palace Moon showed all the right qualities to win this having appeared beaten a furlong out. Responding to strong pressure, he dug in to master a fading Zidane and hold the late thrusts of Swiss Diva and Jimmy Styles. Palace Moon looked all out. Strike The Deal had every chance but found little when the gun was put to his head. Ancien Regime, a major flop here in the July Cup, was eased right off to finish a distant last.

Stoic won the maiden comfortably but the hitherto unraced Alainmaar finished stoutly under tender handling, looking for all the world like a future winner.

GOODWOOD RACING RESULTS:

After something of a losing sequence, Golden Desert ran right away with the Class 3 handicap from a chasing Hamoody. His last win was over this track as a two-year-old when hopes were entertained at a crack at a Classic the following year. It has been a barren spell since, including a stint in California. This was more like it! He ran as if six was too sharp but this was an encouraging effort and he may be poised to win a race in the near future. The fully exposed trio of Proclaim, Aye Aye Digby and Mujood were next to finish.

Morilyan returned to the track that saw his best effort in this country when finishing an all-out second in the Goodwood Cup. Held up and always moving strongly, he was a winner waiting to happen from a long way out in the Listed March Stakes. Once switched to the inner, he quickened away from Victoria Montoya and the hard ridden Oasis Knight. This was no more than Mourilyan deserved after a tough campaign that included a stint in Dubai. Urban Poet was one of the first beaten. He probably failed to stay, but his third in the Gordon Stakes did not entitle him to be so short in the betting in any case.

CELEBRATION MILE (Group 2): After a tough spring preparation for the Guineas then a gladiatorial battle with Mastercraftsman at Ascot, Delegator got his consolation in taking style for his new connections. Travelling well but wedged on the inner, he had work to do a furlong out but quickened in classy style, producing a sprinter’s turn of foot. Apparently, he had been working brilliantly prior to this and it showed. He has plenty of speed that he was able to demonstrate to great effect today. However, the suspicion is that, although he copes with a relatively easy mile at a track like Goodwood, seven furlongs may be the extent of his capability at a stiffer venue. Zacinto has developed into a fine three-year-old and has progressed again since his win here on Stewards’ Cup day. Racing freely in second place from a slow pace, he led briefly over a furlong out but Delegator took deadly aim on the run to the line. It was a surprise to see Zacinto so keen and obviously such antics did not help. He remains of interest and will be much better in a truly run affair. Early pacesetter Ordnance Row clung on to third. Beacon Lodge, Mac Love and Cesare were close up but essentially this was a race that concerned the front two.

PRESTIGE STAKES (Group 3): The first observation here is that with four in a cluster, we have to assume no stars were on display. However, the Sweet Solera form was boosted with the all-the-way success of Sent From Heaven who had finished third to Long Lashes. Wilting as the post loomed, she held on from a thrusting Mudaaraah and Snow Fairy who raced widest of all. She had taken the honours when second from top weight in a nursery the time before and only just behind Sent From Heaven at Newmarket last time. Blue Angel was another to reappear from the Sweet Solera to complete the four-way struggle in the closing stages. Adam Kirby performed a rodeo act on Bella Swan having almost been unseated from the stalls but delivering a strong challenge in the final furlong. Godolphin’s Siyaadah, who was taking a major step up in class after winning a maiden for fillies at Redcar, was exposed against this opposition.

WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:

Traffic Guard’s superior turn of foot secured the Listed August Stakes at the expense of Warringah. This was just reward for the winner who has been plying his trade at a high level for some time without due success. Warringah, although not quite able to sustain a fearsome gallop in the Ebor, would probably prefer a stiffer test of stamina than this.

WINTER HILL STAKES (Group 3): An on-song Campanologist gained the day against Bankable in a close run race here. Both are decent performers on their day. Kingdom Of Fife was a creditable third.

TRACK NOTES

FRIDAY AUGUST 28th:

NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:

The first division of the fillies’ maiden went to thrice-raced Pollenator, whose win over Boogie Diva and Qaraaba allied to previous form lacked depth. The winner, by Motivator, beat the favourite, Qaraaba, seven lengths. The time was moderate but Pollenator may be improving with racing. Another offspring of Motivator, Miss Miracle was a promising fourth ahead of Touch Tone who looks booked for a nursery two runs down the line.

Another Richard Hannon-trained filly, Paleo, won the second division, which looked the weaker event although the time was quicker. Pink Symphony – fifth to Water Biscuit at Goodwood when Paleo was behind – failed narrowly. Magic Doll finished strongly in third, looking as if she should win soon.

The well-backed Whippers Love followed up on his Beverley success in the nursery from a mark of 74. Deauville Post was doing his best work in the closing stages but was off the bridle a long way out and although beaten only a little over a length, his run was a shade disappointing. He was weighted to finish alongside the fourth horse, Missionaire, so in beating of him by three-and-a-half lengths this may be as good as he is.

In Div 1 of the colts’ maiden, Awesome Act – second to the highly rated Al Zir last time – again had to settle for second place to a Godolphin representative, this time to Ameer. Critical Moment – a son of Aptitude was third with a yawning five lengths back to Mushreq in fourth. It would appear that those around Awesome Act ran above expectations in a time no quicker than the first division of the fillies’ equivalent; therefore, the jury has to be out for the time being.

Treble Jig was for once a message horse that lived up to his advance billing. Behind Awesome Act on his only start, he won like a horse that would overturn that form should the two meet again. Said to have improved markedly since, and backed accordingly, he still looks green but only had to be shaken up to win, which he always looked likely to do. This was a pleasing performance by a well-grown but still unfurnished son of Gone West. As far as two-year-olds on the day were concerned, Treble Jig produced the most taking performance and should be worth following. Suited And Booted made a brave attempt to provide the Hannon stable with a treble. Being by Tagula, the rain that had fallen would have been in his favour and his form going into this was respectable. These two were clear of Nizaa and Pekan Star. Notice Given may do better in nurseries.

TRACK NOTES

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26th:

WARWICK RACING RESULTS:

Despite having the form to win the nursery and carrying stable confidence, the heavily backed Marine Spirit was always fighting a losing battle against Take Ten. The winner made all in typical Mark Johnston-style whilst Marine Spirit took a tug, failing to settle. In receipt of 9lbs, Take Ten made it count although the runner-up was beaten a little too far for comfort, casting a slight doubt on the value of the form.

Stags Leap has an improving profile as form lines indicated he had work to do to beat Suffolk Punch amongst others in the Conditions Stakes. With only two lengths separating the seven runners it is easy to pick holes in the form, but Stags Leap showed plenty of resolution when called upon. Avonrose was second with Lamh Albasser an unconvincing third. Palio Square, a one-paced Suffolk Punch (despite his name looks on the small side), Kalam Daleel (hampered but again not convincing) and Muwalla made up the numbers. The winner may improve again and is the type to net a valuable nursery given the chance.

Broad Cairn was able to capitalise on a drop in grade in the Class 4 handicap.

At AYR, Collateral Damage inflicted financial damage on bookmakers in the Class 4 handicap for which he was a well backed favourite. It has been a long time between drinks, but everything was in his favour today and he took advantage of a mark 11lbs lower than when recording his last two wins. He sluiced home in soft/heavy ground in places from a rating of 70, winning with a fair bit in hand. He will return to a mark approaching the eighties after this and judging by his record, a repeat performance cannot be relied upon.

Bonnie Prince Blue foiled a similar renaissance for Mr Wolf to that enjoyed by Collateral Damage in the Class 5 at CATTERICK. Rain had taken its effect on the ground and although Mr Wolf made a brave attempt, he was comprehensively beaten in second. At the age of eight, opportunities become will become scarce but a sounder surface would have helped.

TRACK NOTES

MONDAY AUGUST 24th:

WINDSOR HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Sunraider put experience to good use when landing the first division of the EBF Maiden. Robinson Cruso made a promising debut in second and should be winning soon. Kalypso King was third ahead of Gallant Eagle who has not progressed since finishing fourth to Arcano at Newbury. A typical Hawk Wing, his attitude is less than ideal.

The second division did not look as good – borne out by the time which was a second slower. Katenari and Flip Flop were the principals.

Cherry Bee upheld the Bluie form – which has worked out – when taking the nursery from a mark of 67.

Special Reserve won his second handicap – a Class 4 – from a poor field that included the disappointing Serious Impact and a moody Humble Opinion.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING RESULTS:

The maidens looked on a par for the track but no more. Ashram had his day in the Conditions Stakes. Blinkered and sweating, he was nevertheless too good for the opposition. This was a race Frankie Dettori was intent on winning. Recovering quickly from a tardy start, he knew exactly where he wanted to be and what he wished to do throughout, diving for the cutaway in the straight and urging Ashram to go clear. This was in contrast to Liam Keniry on the runner-up Brief Encounter. He would not have won but was here and there on his mount – who admittedly was on and off the bridle – and by the time the combination engaged the appropriate gear Frankie was easing up. Hyades gave the impression he is capable of better.

Bawadi found the mark of 90 too much in the handicap. How he was accorded such a rating is something of a mystery considering the event he won here was only a notch up from a sack race.

TRACK NOTES

SUNDAY AUGUST 23rd:

DEAUVILLE RACING RESULTS:

DARLEY PRIX MORNY (Group 1): One of the major mid-summer events for juveniles went the way of the unbeaten Arcano who snatched victory in the closing stages from Robert Papin winner Special Duty. A small but select field lined up with Arcano, after the Gimcrack success this week of Showcasing – who he had beaten on debut at Newbury – holding strong form claims. Switched between horses over a furlong out, Arcano quickened, catching Special Duty close home. A recent acquisition by Sheikh Hamdam Al Maktoum, Arcano’s pattern so far has been of a horse that only does enough. His three victories – at Newbury, Newmarket and now here stamp him as a quality two-year-old. Another triumph for Oasis Dream, out of a Daylami mare, Arcano should stay a mile without any problem. If it gets further, he could be a serious prospect for next year. Special Duty upheld Robert Papin form in second, with Canford Cliffs only third. It is possible that Canford Cliffs failed to run to his best. He looked well enough but this time was not lobbing on the bridle. On the contrary, Richard Hughes was niggling some way out. The horse responded for pressure but the spark we saw at Ascot was missing.

TRACK NOTES

SATURDAY AUGUST 22nd:

SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:

Iveco Atalanta Stakes (Listed Race): This provided Strawberrydaiquiri with her fourth straight win. She is not a filly that infuses her supporters with confidence; she travels well enough but seems to hit a temporary flat spot before finding her stride. Angled out by Ryan Moore, she took a while then quickened away to win comfortably. Brought along steadily by her trainer, she seems to be handling her opposition on worse terms with equal efficiency each time she meets them. She may be ready for a stiffer test now. Eased inside the last furlong, she left her rivals to scrap out a separate race for places. Ada River got the best of it, securing runner-up spot ahead of Nashmiah, who ran in snatches, Ahla Wasahl and Say No Now who seems to do too much too early in her races.

VARIETY CLUB SOLARIO STAKES (Group 3): Shakespearean has taken time to adapt to this level, having struggled at Royal Ascot and finished third in a scrappy running of the Superlative Stakes at Newmarket. Clear and out of trouble, he made all, maintaining a decent gallop to win without lighting any fires, but without being asked to maximum effort either. This is probably his level – something like the Royal Lodge would not be out of the question. Buzzword chased him for most of the way, locked away on the inner until a gap materialised well over a furlong out. He had every chance but was only chipping away at the winner’s lead rather than making inroads. Dubawi Phantom took third ahead of Ascot winner Black Spirit. Of the rest, Simenon finished fast in fifth. He has run to form with Dubawi Phantom but might have finished a length or so closer had things panned out differently. Overall, this race did what it said on the tin.

David Hewitt Stakes (Heritage Handicap): On Variety Day, the crowd was treated to a fine Frankie Dettori ride. He made all, dictating matters on Fanjura then kicking on two out and easing his mount down approaching the post. This completed a hat trick for Fanjura who seems well suited by this ten-furlong trip. Antinori came from the pack to finish a closing second, although is flattered to a degree as the winner was eased. Even so, this was a decent performance from a horse not renowned for being straightforward. Greylami was too keen for his own good in the early stages but stuck on for third in a bunch with Eastern Aria and Supaseus. Posted wide, Proponent caught the eye, finishing nicely without ever looking likely to get to grips with the leaders. He should improve on this, particularly when the ground eases. Lang Shining is another on a winnable mark. His chance was compromised when tightened up in the straight. He was not about to deliver a challenge but is now hovering on a reasonable mark. He is another that will benefit from an easier surface.

So strongly was Blue Jack travelling in the Class 2 sprint over five that he took himself to the front and had everything else off the bridle as he eased away. They were pulling him back at the line but by then the race was won. Blue Jack has now scored four times since the application of blinkers, which have made a clear difference. His stable companion, Tony The Tap, was his closest pursuer with Northern Dare back in third.

Rocket Rob’s winning sequence started in a juvenile seller. Due to shrewd placing he has been steadily raised in grade, winning his seventh race in the Class 4 handicap from a mark of only 77 that, considering he was the winning-most contender in the line-up, pays tribute to his trainer. Rocket Rob burst through the field to win tidily. Strictly had to come round runners, delivering a belated challenge that took her into second ahead of Corton Charlemagne.

Cool Valentine’s win in the nursery was one of those things that became more predictable with hindsight. Weighted to reverse form with Silver Grey – who finished third – had we known that form was good enough to allow this One Cool Cat colt to go close, then 16/1 was a big price. Of course, we are all wise after the event. Astonishment split the two mentioned with Jehu in fourth. The two that drew us in were the unexposed pair, Jutland and Bab At The Bowster. Jutland was almost certainly flattered by his finishing place behind Cadley Road in a maiden here, his Brighton win probably representative of his ability. As for Bab At The Bowster, well as already stated, it is tempting fate to call a horse after a dog. A well-grown filly, she pulls hard and as a result failed to see out the seven-furlong trip. She looks the part in the paddock but her victory at Brighton is likely to be the limit of her ability unless she learns to settle.

Prince Of Johanne recorded his hat trick with his win in the Class 4 handicap. This was a hand-picked event with the well backed Redcar winner, Ordoney running no more than respectably in third on his handicap debut. His price probably had more to do with his trainer than anything the horse had shown.

CHESTER staged a fiendishly difficult card. Basaltico may be acclimatising to his new surroundings, running a fair race in the Listed handicap won by Munsef.

The Class 2 handicap over an extended seven furlongs produced a typically close Chester finish. Carcinetto inched out Lowther with Opus Maximus and Axiom snapping at their heels. With top weight, Ordnance Row ran well from an outside draw and on ground faster than ideal. Dhaular Dhar is getting a bit long in the tooth for this sort of competition. He finished midfield but needs to have his sights lowered.

Quarrel made all to beat his two rivals in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes. He upheld his Ascot win at the expense of Atlantis Star.

TRACK NOTES

FRIDAY AUGUST 21st:

YORK RACING RESULTS:

Melrose Stakes (Handicap): Akmal recorded his fourth win of the season and second course success when taking this. He toughed out a gruelling finish with Alanbrooke, Bernie The Bolt and Cosmic Sun being the next two to finish. Akmal stays very well and stamina could be what won it for him. Lack of it may have been responsible for the defeat of the Cape Cross colt Braveheart Move. With the likes of Gibb River just off the pace, this did not look a good renewal.

STRENSALL STAKES (Group 3): This has been a good week for trainer John Dunlop who fired off a quick double after the success of Akmal with Palavicini here. It was noticeable that the first two raced on the far side, where it is just possible there could be an advantage. Palavicini, carrying the Elusive Pimpernel colours, becomes another three-year-old to beat his elders in a Group contest. Palavicini has several form lines that put him in the middle division of the current classic crop but the gap yawned back to Perfect Stride who looked very well but took an unwelcome early tug. He is a tricky character at best. Spring Of Fame was an honest fourth. Under the pump some way out, Forgotten Voice may not have stayed. Fourth in the Sussex, he was ridden for a place in that, meaning the run should not be taken literally. He seems to have done his winning for the time being. Lord Admiral and Russian Sage ran tamely.

City Of York Stakes (Listed Race): In a desperate finish, two of racing’s characters shared the honours. Confront and Dream Eater were inseparable as they flashed past the line. Confront was under pressure a long way out; not always the most generous of finishers, he responded as did Dream Eater who jinked (as he has before) at a crucial stage. In such a tight finish, this manoeuvre probably cost Dream Eater the race but then Confront was looking for the exit also. Royal Confidence snatched third and looks like a filly about to peak, although Secret Society may have taken third but for being the meat in the Dream Eater sandwich. Huntdown seemed to have every chance but in fifth, his final placing was disappointing after his excellent comeback effort behind Imbongi and in front of Balthazaar’s Gift at Newmarket.

COOLMORE NUNTHORPE STAKES (Group 1): On the floor yesterday, riding a Group 1 today – Neil Callan amply demonstrated the vagaries of this business when steering Borderlescott to a famous victory. Defending his title from last year, this seven-year-old has been a model of consistency this season. Curragh specialist Benbaun was closest to him in second with the juvenile Radiohead recovering from a tardy start to snatch third. By all accounts, his work at home gives little indication he is as good as his record shows. Tax Free was fourth ahead of Amour Propre and Kingsgate Native who was unable to confirm Goodwood form with the winner. With the best of the sprinting brigade absent, this was not a race of the highest quality but for Borderlescott to win back-to-back Nunthorpes is a rare achievement.

Convivial Maiden Stakes: Judging by the market this was not a race of its usual depth. Businessman won despite drifting across the track. A colt by Acclamation, he has an edge of speed. It would unwise to get carried away by this. Noble Greek was second; his efforts to date suggesting he is average. Dherghaam turned in a nice enough first effort as did Hanson’d but both he and the fifth, Arry’s Orse have improvement to make before justifying lofty engagements.

John Dunlop wound up the day and the meeting with his third winner on the day in the shape of Swingkeel in the Class 3 handicap.

At CHESTER Walk On Water looked as if she has made giant strides since her debut at Ascot. The form from that race is not outstanding but the manner of her success in the conditions stakes indicates she is capable of stepping up a notch.

Big Audio successfully defied a penalty in the Listed Race at SALISBURY, holding on from Dubai Miracle with possibly a little to spare. Black Snowflake had to be switched for a run but was not quite up to this task. Dreamspeed was another that had the potential but was found wanting in this company.

TRACK NOTES

THURSDAY AUGUST 20th:

YORK RACING RESULTS:

DBS St Leger Yearling Stakes: Won by the big-priced filly, Midnight Martini, this did not have the look of a race worthy of the prize-money. She held on from a fast-finishing Carnaby Street and Sole Power. Swilly Ferry – rated only 83 – was a close fourth. Red Badge and Sir Parky were prominent; the favourite, Rodrigo De Torres, unseated when held in sixth inside the last furlong.

JAGUAR CARS LOWTHER STAKES (Group 2): Lady Of The Desert cemented her claim to be one of the top juvenile fillies with an emphatic success here. Always prominent, she took over two out and it soon became obvious her rivals were toiling in her wake. The most attractive Beyond Desire was the only one to hunt her up but was unable to run her down. This was still a step up on her Goodwood run and confirms the favourable impression she showed. The right two were first and second; to be honest, the rest of the field looked average at best. Lady Of The Desert is by Rahy out of the speedy Queen’s Logic. She ought to stay a mile but her style of racing makes it no foregone conclusion. Beyond Desire is bred for speed also. It would be a surprise if she stayed much further than this six furlongs.

Addleshaw Goddard Stakes (Class 2 Handicap): This competitive event saw Roaring Forte recover the winning trail. A good horse on his day, he seems to have his own ideas about the game. He will be rated around 106 after today. Acrostic and Webbow ran to form in third and fourth whilst Scuffle stayed on strongly on ground probably too lively. Given her ground, she looks poised to win shortly from her current mark of 97. Her Newmarket form with Whispering Gallery received a boost earlier in the week. Mirrored looks in need of a break after his fourth race in a tough midsummer handicap that he has failed to win. Unfortunately, his mark is creeping up all the time.

DARLEY YORKSHIRE OAKS (Group 1): Dar Re Mi set the seal on a great season when taking the scalp of the Oaks winner Sariska. Behind Zarkava last year in the Vermeille, this success only pays tribute to last year’s wonder filly. Dar Re Mi and Sariska both sliced through the field to do battle over a furlong out, but it was Dar Re Mei that held the aces. Excuses have been advanced for Sariska. She was found to be in season and the ground was too firm. Valid points, but she was beaten by a good filly here and of course was trying her luck against the older generation for the first time. Undoubtedly, soft ground plays to her strengths.

Leocorno looks to be coming into bloom just now. Although beaten in the Galtres Stakes, this was her best effort to date and serves notice there may be more to come.

Passkey should be winning soon. Second at Lingfield in the maiden over seven, she will improve for further.

Emirates Roadshow has to be off any list after his defeat at Epsom. He is clearly doing more at home than he does on the racecourse.

TRACK NOTES

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 19th:

YORK RACING RESULTS:

All the talk before the Class 2 handicap was of Class Is Class, seemingly an unlucky Newmarket loser last time and now racing over what appeared a more suitable trip of a mile-and-a-half. Still immature on this, only his fifth effort, he was labouring from some way out. It says a good deal for his attitude and that of the excellent Ryan Moore that he finally began moving forward down the straight, coming from the pack to take second without troubling the all-the-way winner. Being by Montjeu it would seem this ground might have been lively enough, as he was never travelling. He was doing all his best work when meeting the rising ground at Newmarket and again when it was all over today. The trip seems fine; he needs juice. Similarly-profiled Whispering Gallery made all after his win at Newmarket eleven days ago. Another upped in trip and grade, he kept up a relentless gallop and when Class Is Class did start racing, Whispering Gallery had things under control. Already rated 99 going into this, he is facing a mark approaching 108, which may make life difficult. Apparently, the 2010 Dubai Carnival is on the horizon. The first two aside, little emerged. Yes Mr President was an honourable third. Presbyterian Nun stayed on for fourth. She has dropped to a handy mark and although has only a maiden at Folkestone to her name, now rated 86 it is reasonable to expect her to add to that in the near future.

WETHERBYS INSURANCE LONSDALE CUP (Group 2): In all fairness this was a below standard Group 2 with question marks handing over Royal And Regal and Enroller, both of whom have developed into disappointments this season, accompanied by another wilderness animal in Askar Tau. It was hardly surprising then that the consistent Drill Sergeant was the one to attract cash. Looking in terrific condition, he would have been anyone’s paddock pick. In the first two throughout he hit the front after the retreat of Baddam but was stalked by Royal And Regal who was on the snaff and looking as if he could pick up the leader at leisure. Drill Sergeant outbattled Royal And Regal who, not for the first time, found little off the bridle. Stoked along throughout the last mile, Askar Tau finally wore down a game Drill Sergeant under a terrifically resolute ride from Ryan Moore. In a first-time visor after a desperate run at Goodwood, Askar Tau has recovered the upward curve that saw him finish fourth in the Cesarewitch at the end of last year. Baddam plugged on for fourth with Enroller trailing. He wants ease in the ground – Willie Muir knows this – whilst not wishing Enroller any harm, it was an appalling piece of placing to run him on fast ground here.

IRISH THOROUGHBRED GIMCRACK STAKES (Group 2): For once the message was accurate! Showcasing took this leap up in grade in his stride to win convincingly. By Oasis Dream, despite needing fast ground according to his connections, this would appear to be as fast as he wants. Very powerful, he has come on physically since an excellent second to Arcano at Newbury and a run-of-the-mill maiden at Yarmouth. Many Oasis Dreams adopt a strong influence from their dams, but Showcasing as all the attributes of his sire. He is fast and may be more of a Middle Park than a Dewhurst contender. Impressive as this was, quotes for the 2,000 Guineas look wide of the mark as, at this stage at least, Showcasing looks a sprinter that may emulate his sire in the July Cup. Taajub showed improved form to finish second with Monsieur Chevalier only third. Of course, as a precocious juvenile, the wheels had to come off sooner or later – they are currently rolling down the Knavesmire. Still a decent type, Monsieur Chevalier could never go the pace against these rivals who this time did not come back, meaning he was unable to pick up the pieces in his customary manner in the final furlong. Richard Hughes’s statement that five was his best trip was an intelligent call. Now we know Monsieur Chevalier’s limits, races like the Middle Park have to be off the radar; although it is premature to say his winning days are over. Mr David was an outclassed fourth with Orpen Grey blazing from the start and playing into the hands of his fancied rivals.

Totesport Ebor: This resulted in a one-two for Ireland with Sesenta squeezing home from hot favourite Changingoftheguard. Sesanta, a brave mare, is versatile as regards trip, having finished second in the Ascot Stakes. She has also scored over a mile-and-a-half. Today’s distance was fine as she saw it out in the face of a strong late challenge from Changingoftheguard who reared at the start and had to inch his way through a packed field. Travelling strongly on the inner, he looked likely to bolt up, but these handicaps take few prisoners and a late thrust just failed. This remains a massive effort from a three-year-old rated 107. Hits Only Vic ran up to form with Warringah in third. Nanton, habitually on the premises in races of this sort, ran a stormer in fourth. Having made an early break for it, Warringah was inches away in fifth. Weight anchored him but he has run a blinder. Manyriverstocross made up a tight knot for the first six. Of the rest, the ground turned against The Betchworth Kid but he still performed well. Deutschland was eighth; the rest were the sort to make up the numbers in a race like this without winning. The possible exception for the future is Waldvogel. Carrying the Purple Moon colours, he ran better than his final position indicates. Unsuited by the gradients at Goodwood last time, he has reasonable form in Germany and Dubai and is with a trainer that will know where to go with this fellow. Although not kindly treated at present, there is a race to be won.

Julia Graves Roses Stakes (Listed Race): Eleven runs down the line after winning at Kempton in March, Star Rover, labelled in this quarter as a sharp early juvenile likely to be swallowed up by May, is still in there fighting for his life. Campaigned at the highest level for one of his ability, he continues to thrive. What a little star he is! Strongly challenged by Mister Manannan, he stuck a brave and willing head out as he refused to go under. The front two represent Monsieur Chevalier’s form, which places it in perspective in the light of his run in the Gimcrack. The penalised Love Lockdown was third, ahead of Singeur and Nosedive, whose name accurately describes his current form.

Richard Hughes wound up the day with a great ride on Shamwari Lodge who was closely attended by Paquerettza, Silver Games and Seradim in the Class 2 handicap.

TRACK NOTES

TUESDAY AUGUST 18th:

YORK RACING RESULTS:

The meeting opened with a Class 2 handicap over an extended five furlongs – eighty-nine yards in excess of the minimum – a tricky trip that seemed to be the undoing of Hamish McGonagall and the making of Barney McGrew. Several were in the mix on the sprint to the line. Sonny Red once again made eye-catching ground in the closing stages looking as if he is crying out for six. Never a factor in the Stewards’ Cup, he once again teased race-readers with a run brimful of promise. When conditions are in his favour, it would be unwise to overlook him.

ACOMB STAKE (Group 3): This contained a top class line up – possibly the best two-year-old race of the season. Moreover, not for the first time, form was upheld despite those prepared to take on the Newmarket winner Elusive Pimpernel with Poet’s Voice, who had finished third that day and won impressively since. Elusive Pimpernel’s Newmarket win has already been stamped; further endorsement was forthcoming here with the first three all coming from that maiden. The first thing to say is that Elusive Pimpernel, last two out, was the most unlikely winner of all at that point. As at Newmarket, he took some waking up. Switched to the stands’ side, it was only inside the final furlong he started to motor and cut down Emerald Commander and Poet’s Voice. By Elusive Quality, he is a fine specimen with a backside like a butcher’s wife. Powerful, responsive, talented, Elusive Pimpernel looks a top class colt who will have no trouble staying the mile. He has plenty of stamina on the distaff side. Emerald Commander was unlucky at Newmarket having fluffed the start and finished strongly. The race he won at Newbury has sent out mixed messages but that was on soft ground. By Pivotal, this forgiving surface was more like it. He ran well but was outpointed close home. Poet’s Voice is a fine looking son of Dubawi that travelled strongly throughout. There was no disgrace in his defeat but he lacked that vital spark inside the last hundred yards. That consistent yardstick, Party Doctor was fourth, with Vale Of York a respectable fifth. Mata Keranjang needs a drop in grade after having competed in the highest class in his three attempts to date. Although not in this class, Planet Red may be capable of better after this, his second race after a setback. Sea Lord is a good-looking son of Cape Cross but was found wanting.

GREAT VOLTIGEUR STAKES (Group 2): What looked like a top class line-up turned into a slight disappointment as the two market leaders, representing excellent Group form in the case of Alwaary, and progressive form in the shape of Harbinger, both flopped. Alwaary sweated beforehand but had done so at Ascot prior to the King George when it failed to prevent him finishing four lengths behind Conduit. Today he was lethargic in the race and never looked like getting on terms. Harbinger ran a similar race, although his supporters at least could hold out some hope until he ran as if trying to gallop through sand. All this left Dante fourth Monitor Closely, who had made the running, to sustain his gallop and stretch the field right out. By Oasis Dream, who seems to be siring horses that are effective at all distances, there is talk of Monitor Closely going for the St Leger. Mastery was second; under a 3lbs penalty this was a fair effort. Similarly burdened, Father Time has done no more than run up to form in third. Jukebox Jury may have been flattered by beating a below-par Campanologist last time and had few answers in fourth. We know Above Average is not Group class so the fact he finished fifth has to be factored in to the overall standard of this as an event.

JUDDMONTE INTERNATIONAL STAKES (Group 1): Round four for Sea The Stars and another knockout blow for the Derby winner who had to work to overhaul a gallant bid from Mastercraftsman. To all intense and purposes this was a two-horse race with the other two participants pacemakers. Once they dropped away, Mastercraftsman made his bid. Although lobbing with ease, Sea The Stars gave his supporters anxious moments as he first appeared to lug in behind then failed to find the electric response we are accustomed to. Eventually, under a confident Mick Kinane ride, Sea The Stars asserted but not before one or two of us felt he might be reaching the buffers so graphically elucidated by Willie Carson after Nashwan’s defeat in France. Horses can only withstand so many races at this level at three, but Kinane was emphatic that the fuel tank was nowhere near empty. Indeed the horse seemed perky afterwards and could be streetwise. He is a wonderful advertisement to all connected with him and to racing in general. It is next stop Leopardstown, followed by a possible tilt at the Breeders’ Cup. One of his greatest assets is his temperament. Mastercraftsman should be credited for a fine effort that reinforces he was not at his best in the Guineas but is a tough nut to crack now. He fought all the way and has now proved a trip of ten furlongs is within his remit.

Being honest the last two races let the card down somewhat. The nursery was tricky to unravel before and after its running.

Frankie Dettori was seen at his best on Royal Destination who had finished third to the useful Drumfire at Goodwood. Locked away but moving well, Dettori did not panic, angling for a run and pouncing in the closing stages to win the Class 2 handicap, delighting the crowd in the process.

TRACK NOTES

MONDAY AUGUST 17th:

Timely Jazz looked useful when trouncing Logos Astra and the rest in the Wolverhampton maiden. His facile win was another boost for the Elusive Pimpernel form.

TRACK NOTES

SUNDAY AUGUST 16th:

DEAUVILLE RACING RESULTS:

The main action on a star-studded card concerned Goldikova who continued her current run with an authoritative display in the Group 1 Prix Jacques Le Marios. Despite a mulish attitude at the start, she consented to load and powered back in the style of a filly that is getting better all the time. Coming home alone, she treated her rivals with disdain. She is developing a character suggesting she is her own woman but it is fortunate in that her partner, Oliver Peslier, knows her well and is a patient and world class jockey who does not bully her. In this sort of form, Goldikova will be hard to beat both in her native France and at Santa Anita for the Breeeders’ Cup. Aqlaam was almost a bystander in second. True, he is not Group 1 material but his dismissal only emphasises how good the winning filly is. Virtual was third on ground probably too firm but, again, he was a passenger. Silver Frost was exposed as no more than a moderate French Guineas winner; whilst a message that Gladiatorus was back to the sort of form we saw in Dubai proved wide of the mark. Ridden with restraint, he was in trouble after three furlongs and eventually finished a well-beaten last. A big but fragile looking colt, it would appear we saw the best of him in the desert.

Brocklesby winner, Hearts Of Fire caused something of an upset when beating the progressive Cadley Road in the Listed race. There seemed no excuses for the runner-up. However, a word of praise is due for Paul Eddery, who has assumed the mantle of his brother’s training establishment of late and produced this colt spot on to win such a prestigious prize.

TRACK NOTES

SATURDAY AUGUST 15th:

NEWBURY RACING RESULTS:

EBF Maiden Fillies’ Stakes (Div 1) (Class 4): This looked ripe for a newcomer, with those that had run not having displayed too much. Love And Devotion and Pin Cushion had performed to a similar level at Windsor. There was a message for the last-named and for the unraced Royal Applause filly from the Michael Jarvis yard, Dylanesque. Queen’s Grace – the other with experience – confounded all the tips and whispers to win at 50/1. Last of eight over this course on her only run, constructing a case for her was difficult. Jacqueline Quest laid down a persistent challenge throughout the last furlong that narrowly failed. Pin Cushion was a slow-starter, recovering to finish third. Golden Aria and Za Za Zoom were next to finish. Dylanesque travelled for four furlongs – a shame the race was over six! This did not look anything special.

USK VALLEY STUD STAKES (Listed Race): And a chance for Azmeel to justify a lofty home reputation in what was formerly the Washington Singer, having opening his account in taking style at Sandown. Azmeel is a most likeable son of Azamour with a placid attitude. Always travelling sweetly despite the fact they went much faster here than at Sandown, he eased his way into the lead without his jockey having to become animated. Once in front he only had to be nudged out for a comfortable success. Azmeel has not beaten a high-class field by any means but this is a step in the right direction and he should be capable of pulling out more. Practitioner was an out-gunned second. His form is merely all right. Salisbury winner Blakey’s Boy was third ahead of Lucky General.

GEOFFREY FREER STAKES (Group 3): Kite Wood led a modest field a merry dance, controlling the action and eventually swinging to the stands’ side where there appears to be a favoured strip of ground. To be fair Kite Wood did not need any advantage as he had his rivals in trouble from two out. At that point, only Mourilyan was mounting a challenge but as feared, the edge looks to have gone after a hard battle at Goodwood two weeks ago. In a scramble for places, Mourilyan faded into fourth. Halicarnassus nicked second ahead of Age Of Reason. Of the rest, Fuilin has not progressed this season and Basaltico clearly does not stay this sort of trip. It would be unwise to write him off in the light of his form in Dubai. Kite Wood appears to be coming to hand at the right end of the season. Now joint favourite for the St Leger, he stays and can quicken. After two soft victories at this level, it is premature to contend he is out of the top drawer just yet.

CGA HUNGERFORD STAKES (Group 2): In a messy race considering its profile, Balthazaar’s Gift flashed home late, using his sprinting speed in the closing stages of this seven furlongs event to clear away. Regal Parade was an honest second and Plum Pudding capped a fine season with a third in a Group 2. Palace Moon was a close fourth having appeared too keen for his own good early on. Gallagher was close enough without threatening to win; Evasive went out like a candle. It has to be said that Cheveley Park Stud are not in the habit of selling horses. The fact they let this fellow go does suggest that although he looks the part, he may not be. There were no visible excuses today. It is becoming tiresome to say it, but this was a Group 2 in name only.

Being produced fresh is the secret to Swift Gift who, given a non-nonsense ride from Jamie Spencer, was forced to the front inside the last furlong to win the Class 3 handicap. All out, he held Golden Desert and Masai Moon with the current good run of Cyflymder halted in fourth.

The victory of Moonline Dancer will please those with a vested interest in Seta. Moonline Dancer, who was a well-beaten third to her at Newmarket, was not the first horse to veer across the track during this meeting. Today’s win was not without controversy as her antics caused interference to Wishbone. Richard Hughes, who has been riding so well this season, failed to switch his whip hand, his action exacerbating the drifting of his filly. Fardyieh took second ahead of If I Were A Boy. This did not look any better than the first division that opened the card.

NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:

For a horse that finished third in the Coventry, Rakaan should have won the opening maiden. He had every chance but failed to find enough to get to grips with Arabian Pride. Granite Girl was third but it would seem Rakaan has gone backwards since Ascot and this race, won by a maiden having his fifth attempt, is probably well below the average for this track.

Negotiation got up close home to win the Class 4 handicap in a tight finish with Russian Jar. Everynight was third, but improvement will be required from the principals if they are to defy weight rises.

The Class 4 handicap for horses that are grey in colour was indeed won by a grey. Sarah’s Art beat Zowington and his stable companion Billberry. Of the sixteen that lined up all were gelded bar the filly, Isabella Romee, and the fifth-placed Cara’s Request who was the only entire in the field.

Bounty Box followed up on a win in a handicap restricted to her own sex over this course and distance a month ago, when holding on in a tight tussle for the Class 2 handicap. Seven pounds higher, she was up against it to a degree but remained at the right end of the handicap. Once she hit the front, the chasers yapped at her heels but she lasted from another filly in Sea Of Leaves and Able Master. She did run to form with the fourth horse, the consistent Five Star Junior, but her task will be harder next time. All credit to Chris Wall for his patience in producing her fresh and well to complete the double. This was Bounty Box’s sixth run and so far she has failed to finish out of the first three.

Mister Hughie won the nursery – an uninspiring contest – from Six Diamonds and Val C. In finishing sixth, Radio City did not do too badly under a 5lb rise for his Brighton win. He was wilting noticeably in the last hundred yards and needs an easy five to show his best.

Times Up did well to beat Alcalde in the Class 4 handicap as the runner-up took him halfway across the track. Switched from the rail, Times Up rallied on the climb to catch the errant Alcalde, dispensing a measure of justice in the process.

RIPON RACNIG RESULTS:

The first of the two major events was the Horn Blower Conditions Stakes. In a sub-standard renewal, Exotic Beauty won by a short head from Pontefract maiden winner Hafawa. Beaten from a mark of 85 in a nursery last time, it was hard to fancy the winner but her success sums the race up.

In the Great St Wilfred Handicap for once there were no excuses because of the draw. The principals came from all numbers, the race won by Wokingham fourth and favourite, Markab, so the result was there to be seen. Actually, this is one of the more reliable sprint handicaps in the calendar. Narrowly deprived Tamagin was second ahead of Advanced and Jimmy Styles, two fancied placed runners. Hitchens continues to baffle. He finished sixth having been off the bridle for some way but staying on. Six might be too sharp these days but there is precious little leeway in his current handicap mark.

TRACK NOTES

FRIDAY AUGUST 14th:

SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:

Dromore, a very slow starter at Lingfield in July, provided the Andrew Balding stable with another winner in the Class 5 auction. In beating Joe Packet and Ashkalara he has hardly set the world on fire but is heading in the right direction. Pebblesonthebeach ran an odd sort of race, coming there looking full of running then emptying before staying on again.

Division II looked all together better. Second to Sent To Heaven, Magic Lantern made a bold bid to hold on when tackled by the colt, Many A Slip, who inched her out close home. Bandear made it a clean sweep for those with experience in third.

Netta won the maiden from Ermine And Velvet, whilst the ground seemed the undoing of the favourite, Primaeval. By Pivotal, although no great shakes he will improve on this with more give.

Doggerbank’s victory in the Class 4 fillies’ handicap possibly failed to amount to much but she was pulling away at the end. By Oasis Dream, she clearly stays well. Lyceana and Where’s Susie were next to finish with Galilean Moon already on the retreat when hampered on the inner.

TOTESPORT SOVEREIGN STAKES (Group 3):

There was a poor turnout for such prize-money and a Group race. Last year’s winner Ordnance Row was a late withdrawal presumably on account of the ground. Confront was a short-priced favourite but it is fair to say this one-time Guineas aspirant has disappointed since an encouraging first season. The strongest and biggest in the field, he made the running but the signs were ominous from some way out. Despite a 3lbs penalty, it was Mac Love, who had beaten Confront in the Diomed, that gained the day. Benefitting from a waiting ride, he swooped and dismissed Confront in the final furlong. Laa Rayb ran more or less up to Goodwood form but does not look straightforward.

SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:

Frankie Dettori came from last to first in the Class 5 handicap on Rocket Rob, winning on the unfavoured part of the track to deny Night Affair with something in hand.

The Class 4 maiden seemed an ideal opportunity for Waseet who had run with such encouragement at Newmarket in a maiden won by Simenon from Timely Jazz – two colts with experience. Slowly away that day, Waseet finished strongly having been well behind at halfway. Of those that had run against him today, Mecox Bay and Cloudy City represented fair form. Waseet made no mistake at the start or in the race, always cruising and accelerating when picked up. He won very easily with Very Good Day – a Sinndar newcomer – in second, and Mecox Bay a hard ridden third. He had been beaten nine lengths by Cadley Road and High Twelve on debut. Using him as a benchmark, Waseet looks useful.

The lightly raced Prime Exhibit repaid Roger Charlton’s patience by lifting the Class 3 handicap on only his sixth start. Highly tried at three and presumably a horse that has overcome training problems, he came on considerably for his comeback outing at Nottingham to win this comfortably from a mark of 82. Always travelling strongly, he cut down long time leader Guilded Warrior inside the last furlong under a considerate hands and heels ride. Spirit Of Sharjah was third ahead of Thief Of Time and Spate River. This may not have been as strong a handicap as it looked, but Prime Exhibit may be capable of improving upon this now he has recovered the winning thread. Lindoro looks a wayward character who seems to be going the wrong way.

Mezenah won the maiden in the end but those that plunged on her knew they had taken a risk. Small but very fit, she was not exactly impressive. Possibly Frankie Dettori made the difference as he kept at her and the combination lasted home. It is debatable whether she will confirm this next time should she meet any of the three that snapped at her tail. Ghaneema is a well-grown filly by Forestry on whom the experience will not be lost. The same applies to Passkey, a daughter of Medicean, whilst in fourth, Shaaridh had only moderate form to her name. Mezenah has taken her time to get off the mark; on this evidence she is not as good as billed and will struggle upped in grade.

Surprise Party and Play It Sam had a right set-to in the Class 4 handicap. This was only a modest contest and the front two will presumably pay for their efforts.

TRACK NOTES

THURSDAY AUGUST 13th:

SALISBURY RACING RESULTS:

Netta won the maiden from Ermine And Velvet, whilst the ground seemed the undoing of the favourite, Primaeval. By Pivotal, although no great shakes he will improve on this with more give.

TOTESPORT SOVEREIGN STAKES (Group 3):

SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:

Frankie Dettori came from last to first in the Class 5 handicap on Rocket Rob, winning on the unfavoured part of the track to deny Night Affair with something in hand.

Surprise Party and Play It Sam had a right set-to in the Class 4 handicap. This was only a modest contest and the front two will presumably pay for their efforts.

TRACK NOTES

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 12th:

SALISBURY HORSE RACING RESULTS:

EBF Molson Coors Maiden Stakes (Class 4):

The Wiltshire course rolled the years back with the sort of maiden they used to be renowned for (Troy and Mill Reef made debuts here). The collection looked strong both on paper and in the flesh. The market was headed by the strongly-fancied Gallant Eagle who had finished fourth at Newbury to Arcano in June. A touch of sore shins had kept him from the track since, but after such a setback ground that was firming up all the time was not certain to be in his favour. Carnaby Street had finished second to stable mate Planet Red at Windsor, Cansili Star had shown promise at Yarmouth and Haydock, as had Mon Cadeaux when second at Newmarket. Add the presence of Godolphin’s good looking son of Medicean, Dafeef, and the ingredients were in the mix for a decent contest. Late money forced Mon Cadeaux into favouritism, the money proving well placed. A promising second to Blue Maiden on his solitary run, he was a rare runner from the Balding stable not to wear a noseband. Overcoming the one draw, he moved smoothly into the lead with under two to race and won convincingly. By Cadeaux Genereux, he has made plenty of improvement to dominate this field and should get a mile in time. Dafeef put in a pleasing first appearance for Godolphin. Slow to stride, he finished nicely without threatening to challenge. There will surely be another day. Folly Bridge, an Avonbridge so from a fast family, grabbed third ahead of another first-timer in King Of Windsor. Cansili Star was fifth but may be of interest in a nursery. Gallant Eagle is typical Hawk Wing. As feared he failed to stride out on ground that was too fast; he still has the traits of his sire, holding his head awkwardly and failing to look enthusiastic at any stage. There is always a chance he will leave this behind on an easier surface, but I would not be banking on it. A disorientated Carnaby Street took a huge leap at the road. His run can be dismissed.

Frozen Power looked different class in the Class 5 nursery. A cosy winner at Epsom when perfectly handled by Daryl O’ Donohoe, a mark of 81 underestimated him although it was fair on what he achieved. Twice or once-raced horses are often let in lightly. Posted wide, Frankie Dettori on Frozen Power allowed the leaders plenty of rope and as they hit the wall, Frozen Power strode clear. By Oasis Dream, this quickening ground may not have been ideal and this colt may win again. Butch And Sundance was another to make up late ground. Buffeted as the trailblazers wilted, he is worth another chance, particularly as being by Captain Rio he should improve on easier ground. Avon River was third ahead of Nina Rose but it ought to be emphasised this was not a strong event.

It has taken Marching Time four efforts to get off the mark for the season. His class was the decisive factor in the Class 4 Pembroke Cup, but even on ground fast enough for a son of Sadler’s Wells, he was much too good for the opposition. Dropped back to a mile, he powered away with one telling turn of foot to set his seal on a moderate handicap. Wilfred Pickles remains a maiden in second, with Ballyalla and Block Party vying for places.

EUROPEAN BREEDERS’ FUND UPAVON FILLIES’ STAKES (Listed Race):

A fast pace was ensured courtesy of Cape Amber, allowing Ave to pick up the field and become another classy winner on the card. A course winner lining up with a progressive profile having finished behind the useful High Heeled last time, she was too good for Splashdown who seems to have reached her plateau. Comfortably held, she chased Ave to the line. By Danehill Dancer, Ave may stay further and be even more effective with juice in the ground. In third, Sterling Sound will have pleased connections but only rated 79, she casts a shadow over the form.

SANDOWN HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Bridge Valley continued the relentless run of the Hannon yard but beat little of substance in the Class 5 maiden. Key Art was second. Wellington Fair jinked at the start, decanting his jockey.

Having won the first race, Richard Hughes, riding like a man on a mission, produced Royal Intruder in the Class 4 Sprint Handicap at the last moment to outpoint Step It Up and Handsome Cross. Not for the first time this season, it was the riding tactics of Hughes rather than the prowess of his mount that remained the talking point.

Godolphin had another juvenile winner, this time in the Class 5 auction maiden. Pushed wide at the turn and having to change gear to get to the leaders, Al Ghazal, third to Classic Colori at Windsor, achieved a nice success. The first four look decent without being out of the ordinary. Second string from the Meehan stable, Champagne Style, created a good impression in second, ahead of Ultravox (fifth to Emerald Commander at Newbury and White Devil. Ultravox has not made obvious improvement but White Devil has run better than may be apparent. Third to the decent Azmeel here last month, he is a leggy son of Zafeen who has some filling out to do. He was in front early in the straight but got tired in the last furlong. He will do better later in the year.

Having beaten Yarmouth failure Farncombe at Goodwood in May, the defeat of that filly was all the more disappointing today after the success of Sir Isaac. A decent third last time to Glen Molly and the improving Imaam, Sir Isaac looked to have just about the best form in the Class 3 handicap. It was not a great contest, largely comprising of exposed horses. Given an intelligent ride, Sir Isaac made all to repel a persistent challenge from Hail Promenader. Held up, as he was over this track last time, Broad Cairn was beaten by a 4lbs weight rise in third ahead of Militarist.

TRACK NOTES

TUESDAY AUGUST 11th:

LINGFIELD HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Admin has to be considered an unlucky loser in the Class 5 nursery. Apprentice-ridden and shuffled wide on the turn, he was gaining on Six Wives with every closing stride. He is worth another chance. Reddy To Star is regressing and looks a lost cause.

Transvaal Sky won the fillies’ maiden easily and could be of interest over this track in a nursery.

MUSSELBURGH HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Equipped with cheekpieces, Dark Moment started on terms this time in the Class 6 handicap, eventually scoring with something in hand. He may not be as complicated as his profile suggests (has had trouble at start), and from his current mark or thereabouts, could go in again at this sort of level.

TRACK NOTES

MONDAY AUGUST 10th:

SOUTHWELL RACING RESULTS

At SOUTHWELL the gamble to allow Ottoman Empire to take his chance on Fibresand paid off. Spoken of as a Listed horse in the making, but a horse that operates with give underfoot, he has something to prove before reaching that elevated stage. The Class 5 maiden was not a bad event. Newbury runner-up Brief Look, also in search of an easy surface, was a fancied second although she failed to trouble the winner. Ottoman Empire did it nicely in the end having made all the running. It could be his future lies in Pattern Company on the continent.

WINDSOR RACING RESULTS

At WINDSOR, Gene Autry made amends for his Ascot failure but his success could hardly be called impressive. Bonheurs Art gave him plenty to do and the result may have been even tighter had he kept a straight course. These two were seven lengths clear of Bush Master.

TRACK NOTES

SUNDAY AUGUST 9th:

LEICESTER RACING RESULTS:

They raced on heavy ground so the results may not have too much meaning. Imaam has now won twice on a testing surface, making all to win the Class 2 handicap from a mark of 79. Once labelled as a major disappointment by his stable, being by Pivotal, he certainly handles the soft and may be in for a lucrative autumn.

Charlie Tokyo has always shown a preference for the soft, putting a poor run at Pontefract behind him last time to scramble home in a tight finish with Rangefinder and Keisha Kayleigh in the Class 4 handicap. It appears Charlie Tokyo rations his efforts sparingly these days.

REDCAR RACING RESULTS:

The opening maiden looked a long way ahead of the standard normally associated with this track. Godolphin mopped it up with a decent-sized filly by Shamardal called Siyaadah. She has a long stride and a fast ground action. Cash Queen Anna, representing the Newbury form of Connipton that has already been let down, finished strongly without posing a threat. Boogie Diva showed promise in third ahead of Ipitkaar. Disappointment of the event, after such a promising debut at Beverley, was Aquarius Star. She was one of the first beaten, having to be shoved along after a furlong. Maybe she had a hard race first time that has left its mark or possibly, she has failed to step forward. She would not have won at any distance today and this cannot be her running.

WINDSOR RACING RESULTS:

Word had it that Sunraider was smart enough to win the Class 5 auction. Well backed he lost his race at the start, going under to Marcus Cicero and Baby Dollie, both of whom had experience. Sunraider finished well enough in third to suggest he will be sharper and know more next time.

Lucky General maintained his one hundred percent record at Windsor, winning the Conditions Stakes. He has kept better company but, a typical Hawk Wing, having finished fifth to Arcano at Newbury first time, it would appear he is picking and choosing going days.

DEAUVILLE RACNIG RESULTS:

PRIX MAURICE de GHEEST (Group 1): Run over an extended six furlongs, this was not one of the best renewals. Due to a dry morning, the ground changed from good to soft to good. Those racing in the centre of the track seemed to be favoured. King’s Apostle was a deserved winner on the day; connections must be delighted to bag a Group 1 with this colt. Mariol was a big-priced runner-up ahead of Lesson In Humility. It may sound churlish but this was hardly Group 1 form. With Sayif fifth and Asset finishing strongly after a slow start that should have cooked his goose, this was a messy affair. Whilst sprinting may not be his game, Naaqoos continues to let his supporters down. African Rose did have to face quickening ground but even so, she was never seen with a chance.

TRACK NOTES

SATURDAY AUGUST 8th:

NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:

Battlemaiden was the word in the maiden fillies’ despite her sixth at Ascot behind Walk On Water looking dubious form. She bowled along in front, travelling well for a long way but failed to find when picked up. This probably represented improved form but her lack of a fourth gear will always make it difficult to win races. Eolith won in the final strides from Pollenator, whose Folkestone form puts this event in perspective. Hibaayeb made a satisfactory appearance, Battlemaiden faded into fourth with Zahoo, in receipt of a typically quiet Richard Hills debut ride, a promising fifth.

Scuffle ran with some promise after a three-month absence to finish fourth in the Class 2 handicap. The only filly in the field and carrying ten stone, a race ought to be found for her. Whispering Gallery made all to strike a blow for the younger brigade to beat Recession Proof.

SWEET SOLERA STAKES (Group 3): As feared, Albany third Chachamaidee failed to stay the seven furlongs here. She did not help her cause by pulling much too hard from the outset, though on this showing makes little future appeal. Long Lashes, bought by Godolphin from Jessica Harrington after a success at the Curragh, is a strong American-bred filly that has coped with soft and now good to drying ground. Connections feared she might have come into season. Certainly, she looked as if the occasion was somewhat tiresome, dumping her jockey in front of the stands and running about during the closing stages. For all that, she was too good for the opposition, responding to her jockey’s urgings. Blue Maiden was second with Sent From Heaven proving up to this rise in class in third. Snow Fairy had a luckless passage and may have finished slightly closer than her position of fourth but for having to be switched. Jira, whose form ties in with Chachamaidee, fared little better than her wayward rival suggesting early-to-middle season form is starting to become eclipsed.

The win of Jeninsky was something of a surprise in the Class 2 handicap. At the bottom of the handicap she capitalised on several rivals set to lug big weights. Signor Peltro was a fast-closing runner up that may have got there if starting his run earlier. Three-year-old Splendorinthegrass was in the firing line throughout and kept on to the line. That stalwart Advanced was fourth over this seven-furlong trip, a distance he has never won over. Although only ninth, Al Khaleej was closing at the line and should not be ruled out of future events. Set to carry 9st 10lbs, the task was never likely to be easy but this is his second decent effort since an enforced lay-off. It would appear the ability remains and that he may be ready for a mile now. Although only eleventh, Taqdeyr, another burdened with a crushing weight, may be more effective in better company when in the middle of the handicap.

Tabassum justified a lofty home reputation when winning the Class 4 maiden for fillies. Always prominent and not subjected to the usual Richard Hills out-the-back-and-come-late introduction, she seemed to know her job and drew away in pleasing style in the closing stages. A Nayef filly, it remains to be seen if she can build on this but the ability is surely there. Huroof was second for Godolphin, but looked in pedestrian in comparison. This was probably a reasonable event. Dancing Queen was sixth and said to have done plenty of work and reported as useful. Obviously, her trainer was windmill-tilting but she can win at somewhere like Lingfield.

Manifest won the maiden with consummate ease. Quite what he beat is open to question but he powered right away from what looked like a modest bunch. He had been working with Native Ruler, who he is said to be behind at home; nevertheless, he is possibly the better prospect of the two.

HAYDOCK RACING RESULTS:

ROSE OF LANCASTER STAKES (Group 3): Three-year-old Jukebox Jury returned to form after a training setback to claim the scalps of some decent performers. Winner of the Royal Lodge and second to Crowded House in the Racing Post last year, he set about cutting down Campanologist in the last furlong in determined fashion. Beaten a long way in the Eclipse, it would seem Jukebox Jury is back to something like his best. This success is another feather in the cap of Mark Johnston who has such a knack of producing the best from his team in the most trying of circumstances. Campanologist and Duncan filled the minors, both having run poorly at Newmarket last time. Duncan was at his prime in the Coronation and seemed to appreciate this drop in trip. Campanologist was turned out looking in fine fettle and this is probably as good as he is, although the extra half-furlong possibly drew the sting from his finish. Not quite up to this class, Traffic Guard ran an honest fourth. He remains a difficult horse to place.

ASCOT RACING RESULTS:

And the Shergar Cup, in which three winners for Richard Hughes provided further endorsement for one of our finest jockeys. He made it look easy on Polly’s Mark in the Class 2 handicap. Having won a Listed race last time from Fallen In Love she was the form horse but Hughes crept up the inner before allowing her to stride on. She is a filly at the top of her game just now.

The tricky We’ll Come was another to sprint away from the inside when produced, beating the flatterer that is Moynahan who, it ought tot be conceded, has now run two decent races back-to-back. The fact remains he has only won once and that was two seasons ago when a juvenile.

Hayley Turner will no doubt have gained considerable satisfaction from her last race win on Noverre To Go.

TRACK NOTES

FRIDAY AUGUST 7th:

Gibb River has had enough chances and his failure to land a routine maiden at LINGFIELD does suggest his next port of call may be at Stratford. Bernie The Bolt outstayed and out-galloped him, the pair coming clear.

NEWMARKET RACING RESULTS:

It was difficult not to be impressed by the win of Al Zir in the maiden. American bred through and through, he beat a couple of well thought of newcomers in Awesome Act and Munsarim, both of whom should not be long in winning. The winner is considered at present to be as good as any juvenile housed within the Godolphin outfit.

Native Ruler is beginning to look disappointing having once again failed to justify the hype in the Conditions Stakes. He still looks unfurnished and moves more like a kangaroo than a racehorse. By Cape Cross out of Love Divine, there is nothing in his pedigree to indicate wayward tendencies, but it look as if he wanted to duck in behind when asked to quicken. That said he has not made up physically this year. Still gawky, it could be he needs more time. Similarly, something might be amiss. Prince Siegfried made all under Frankie Dettori. A son of Royal Applause that stays well and has Group form in France, he was the form horse here and won with something in hand. He looks the sort to progress and win a handsome prize.

TRACK NOTES

THURSDAY AUGUST 6th:

SANDOWN RACING RESULTS:

High Twelve was the star of the night in the Class 5 maiden. Forget the price; obviously after a run full of promise behind Cadley Road, he was expected to win. The manner of his success filled the eye. He is a most likeable son of Montjeu that has inherited few, if any, of the traits that can sometimes deter from his stallion’s stock. Calmed down by the influence on the dam side that has also injected speed, High Twelve is blessed with a fine temperament and classic looks. High in the pecking order in his powerful stable, we can expect him to obtain black type before long. Corsica turned in a decent performance in second but the winning margin fails to tell the story. Valiant Knight has improved on a non-descript debut behind Sea Lord at Ascot to take third.

FOLKESTONE RACNIG RESULTS:

Having looked edgy at Newmarket, Marine Spirit was calmer in the prelims for the Class 5 maiden and won with some authority despite a sluggish start. Third at Newmarket to Mr David and the disappointing Ghost, he was entitled to make experience count although the runner-up, Subtefuge, who made a favourable impression. Apparently this prominent showing came as no surprise as she enjoys a tall reputation at home. She should win next time.

Having finished third at Ascot behind Walk On Water, Bab At The Bowster was a short price to open her account at Brighton in a Class 5 maiden. She made heavy weather of what looked a straightforward task, confirming the impression at the time that the Ascot maiden may not amount to much.

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WEDNESDAY AUGUST 5th:

PONTEFRACT HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Atlantis Star was untroubled to open his account in the maiden. A son of Cape Cross, he soon led and had his rivals struggling. He beat little of account but there were six lengths back to Raleigh Quay and a further two to Demonstrative. The time, recorded on fast ground, was three seconds slow but Atlantis Star could only beat those put before him. It seems that Godolphin’s policy with their two-year-olds this season is to tread softly. We will know more about this one when he runs again, but this has to be a pleasing start.

BRIGHTON HORSE RACING RESULTS:

There were several reasons to nominate Jutland in the Class 5 maiden, most of them surfacing in retrospect. Having been routed by Contract Caterer at Catterick, he then finished behind Cadley Road and High Twelve in what looked like a high-class maiden at Sandown that has already produced a winner in Stags Leap. With nothing of such calibre to test him, despite rolling about on the camber, Jutland was pulling away at the finish to account for Luminous Star.

With appropriate conditions, Radio City squeezed home in the nursery. Held up – tactics that suited and almost paid off at Sandown – he seized the lead and held on from a closing Vilnius who may have been slightly unlucky. He should win a similar race. As for Radio City, he hits the buffers at the end of five furlongs. Favourably treated from a mark of 69 today, this was his race.

NEWCASTLE HORSE RACING RESULTS:

With several options at the other meetings, Richard Hills called it correctly when opting to ride Azizi in the nursery. Rated 75, Azizi, a son of Haafhd, had his path smoothed by two non-runners but still won comfortably and as suggested at Lingfield, could be better than his bare form suggests.

KEMPTON HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Usual stuff here: Astonishment accomplished a simple task in the maiden despite getting distressed in the saddling boxes when having to be replated.

Kurtanella won the nursery for the Hannon team with Richard Hughes taking the proverbial once he had eased her into the lead.

Musleh looked like an above average winner in the London Mile Handicap (Qualifier). He made light of a mark of 79 and should be capable of better.

Haafhd Time won the Class 5 handicap in routine fashion from Lady Rusty. Judging by her placing of sixth there is a race in Qelaan who started the season well enough before the virtual shutdown of the Tregoning stable. Now they are starting to regain form, Qelaan’s close up sixth from a mark of 73 can be improved upon.

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TUESDAY AUGUST 3rd:

With only two races run at Chepstow before abandonment and the last cancelled from CATTERICK, it is difficult to cobble too much together from a soggy day.

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MONDAY AUGUST 2nd:

Little of note occurred on the day.

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SUNDAY AUGUST 2nd:

Goldikova took the honours with her win in the Group 1 Prix D’astarte at Deauville from a revitalised Elusive Wave. Goldikova looks to be approaching her best after her Falmouth success and could be on course for further Group 1 glory later in the year. Her win at Newmarket drew a sigh of relief round the ring from those that had backed her, but this looked more straightforward. The French 1,000 Guineas winner Elusive Wave was six lengths behind Ghanaati in the Coronation at Ascot but had a difficult journey and did not look a happy filly that day. This was more like it! It was three lengths back to Proviso.

At CHESTER, Doncaster Rover won the Listed event over six furlongs by half-a-length from Sohraab. Handed the best of the draw, the heavily backed winner was entitled to score over weaker opposition than when finishing third to the smart High Standing and Prime Defender in the Group 3 Shadwell Stakes at Newbury, with Saturday’s failure War Artist in fourth. That run does flatter him to a degree as he passed beaten rivals; nevertheless, it was his best effort to date. City Dancer returned to a course she handles after a well-earned break and in finishing third served notice that with careful placing a race could be in the offing.

The main event at Newbury featured fillies, the Listed over a mile-and-a-half going to Polly’s Mark. Hitherto her best form had been in handicaps and it could be argued she was fortunate to beat Fallen In Love, the pair pulling clear. Phillipina was sent off a suicidal 5/4 favourite but was always held. Punters need to wise up to this filly.

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SATURDAY AUGUST 1st:

GOODWOOD HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Handicap (Class 3): Desperate scenes at Goodwood on a most inglorious day opening with teeming rain and a sea fret restricting vision. It all comes alike to Mark Johnston however as Eastern Aria romped away with this from joint top weight and a mark of 88. They went steadily in the rain-softened ground and most finished out on their feet. Five were clear and only the Alhaarth colt, Itlaaq was noted finishing to any effect in fifth. He is a winner on this course, which he obviously handles. Little else can be singled out as most were lost in the mist.

Blue Square Premier Stakes (Listed Race): This had the look of a Group 3 in quality and provided a useful winner. Zacinto zigzagged in the betting, having been installed at a short price in the morning on the strength of a message that seemed to wilt as the day progressed. Described as one of the best juveniles in the yard last year, he returned from a ten-month absence to flout conditions and win in taking style. He will progress further and is one to bear in mind in Group company. Hartley was an unconsidered second ahead of the Tagula colt Pure Poetry, who predictably coped with the ground. Recently gelded Four Winds, a few pounds lighter and dropped in trip, ran better than at the Royal Meeting. Donativum was weak in the market and faded in the last furlong. His penalty made life difficult and this ground was almost certainly too soft. Brief Encounter headed the rest including a non-staying Gallagher and a temperamental Ashram.

BLUE SQUARE NASSAU STAKES (Group 1): Hats off to Midday as she put to rest the ghost of the ground. She appreciated this ten furlongs more than she had the mile-and-a-half at the Curragh in the Irish Oaks. Her jockey, the excellent Tom Queally, poached the favoured stands’ rail, allowing Midday to quicken from two out and keep galloping. She has held her form all year and being by Oasis Dream, some give and ten furlongs probably suit her better than most of us believed it would. Rainbow View had her big chance today and made a brave attempt to gain her first win since last year. On and off the bridle, but a willing partner for Jimmy Fortune, she tried hard to reach Midday but could not bridge the gap. I suspect we saw the two fillies at their best in this. Both remain in Sariska’s shadow. The progressive Moneycantbuymelove copes with this surface, running a personal best in third. Barshiba maintained her current renaissance in fourth. Disappointments followed. High Heeled ran a tame race in fifth, Katiyra ran no sort of race on ground and over that a trip that should have suited. The ground and the trip beat Heaven Sent and Spacious.

Stewards’ Cup (Heritage Handicap): The folly of backing in these races was illustrated here, at least as far as this punter is concerned. Sonny Red appeared to have all the ingredients necessary for a major run but never showed, finishing nearer the back than the front. Genki was not a no-hoper beforehand and his win is testimony to the talent of Roger Charlton who has brought this horse along with this race in mind. Similarly, Evens And Odds, a reject from the Kevin Ryan stable, ran a fine race for Dandy Nicholls in second. Knot In Wood is in terrific form and once again, helped by the claim of his rider, battled to the line under top weight and a steadying mark of 106. Markab justified his position in the market by finishing fourth ahead of Mac Gille Eoin and trailblazing Valery Borzov.

Blue Square EBF Maiden Stakes: Stags Leap, fifth in what looked like an excellent maiden at Sandown won by Cadley Road from High Twelve, gave that form a handsome fillip in victory here. Yarra River, another with form, was second with Poor Prince – second to Dreamspeed on debut – third. Two nice debutants in Destination Aim and Love Delta came next and these were clear of a strung out field.

Bluesquare.com Nursery (Class 2): Dominated by those at the foot of the handicap this went to a horse that won a Haydock seller last time. This form may not hold up. Bluie and Layla’s Hero provided a one-two for Dandy Nicholls ahead of Pintura.

A Class 3 apprentice handicap wound up a soggy day and the meeting, which seems a curious way to wrap up one of our prestigious occasions. Bencoolen provided a double for Dandy Nicholls, beating Mountain Pride and Effigy. Cape Hawk has acquired the habit of running well in defeat. Once again, in finishing fourth he has done enough to hint at a possible future victory.

NEWMARKET HORSE RACING RESULTS:

Possibly leniently treated having finished second at Yarmouth to Janeiro – who showed up well at Goodwood this week – She’s Ok made light of her weight to win the opening nursery. Snow Fairy has to take the honours, carrying over a stone more and going down narrowly.

Ii would appear Invincible Isle fails to stay seven furlongs, at least at Newmarket where for the second time the hill found her out. A fading fourth to Glen Molly, Imaam and Sir Isaac, she will do better over six.

Two years ago, Broomielaw seemed all set for a lucrative season when finishing a highly promising second at Newmarket at the Craven meeting. Beset by problems since and absent from the track for 715 days, he came back to land a tight little Class 3 handicap from a mark of 88. Now gelded, he proved too powerful for the well-fancied Laaheb. This was a fine training performance by Ed Dunlop but, as always, it will be the next run that decides whether Broomielaw is over his difficulties.

Seta, a chestnut filly by Pivotal, leapfrogged to the head of next year’s 1,000 Guineas after what was a taking win in the Class 4 maiden. She cleared away from Dyna Waltz who had finished third over this course and distance on her only experience. Pleasing though the win was promoting Seta to favouritism for the season’s first Classic seems premature.

Cesare seems to have gone off the boil, failing to deliver much of a blow in the Conditions Stakes won by Bushman from Kay Gee Be. At the age of eight it is reasonable to assume he is picking and choosing going days.

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Racing Results Aug 2009 Category - Results

Horse Racing Results for August 2009..

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