Horse Racing Results for September 2008..

TUESDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 30th:

The month fizzled out with little of interest.

WARWICK RESULTS

WARWICK supplied the best card. The Chapple-Hyam filly, Bombina, again refused to enter the stalls in the maiden. She will never transfer whatever ability she possesses to the track if she persists in such behaviour. Nora Mae won nicely having finished fourth to Control Zone at Newbury. King’s Siren went into most notebooks after making up a good chunk of ground to finish fourth.

The Chapple-Hyam stable gained compensation in the shape of a victory from Baariq in the following maiden. He had chased home a smart newcomer in Nehaam at Newmarket and this was third time lucky. Despite wandering across the track, he does have a resolute attitude and was always going to win.

SUNDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 28th:

ASCOT RESULTS

Young Mick can be called a slightly unlucky loser of the Class 2 Handicap. This is his course but he failed to get a run at a crucial stage, allowing Night Crescendo first run. Only six, Young Mick is one of those horses that seem to have been around forever. His current rating of 102 is a fair reflection of his ability, meaning it will never be easy to get him back on the winning track. This race probably looked better than it was. Pevensey finished off well on ground probably too lively, the rest were in a heap until the break to Kensington Oval, who is too highly rated at 93 considering he has only a tin-pot maiden to his credit.

The generosity of bookmakers over the price of Sixties Icon was nothing short of astounding. He should have been 4/9 but plenty of odds-against was available. What did the layers think would beat him? Pitched against handicappers and serial-losers, this multiple Group winner was afforded the luxury of giving his opponents at least an eight-length start and was still able to pick them up at leisure. Sugar Ray, the one serious rival, was the exception to the earlier comment but is not quite up to this class. He finished second ahead of Ajhar. The unreliable duo of Galactic Star and Lion Sands made up the field.

King’s Apostle created something of a surprise in winning the Diadem but has run well all season in top handicaps. However, on ratings he was some way behind several in opposition but it was his day. Diabolical did best of the rest ahead of Sir Gerry who came back to something approaching his best in third. He moves ominously well in his slower paces but does not always finish as expected. Prime Defender followed ahead of Strike The Deal, who will be of interest when he is put over seven furlongs. A trier, he find a mile too far and this six too sharp.

Liberation looked different gear in the maiden, won last year in similar style by Ibn Khaldun, a horse with the same sort of profile. The handicapper had drastically underestimated Liberation giving a rating of 82 to this son of Refuse To Lose. Liberation beat Secrecy, possibly overrated at 95, by an easy five lengths. Obviously, a revision is now due for the winner who is likely to be hiked by at least ten pounds. His form with Anmar has worked out well enough but whether it will transfer to Listed Company is another matter. Secrecy was in turn clear of the third horse, Good Again. The first two look smart but placing them will not be that easy from here on.

CURRAGH RESULTS

The years may be catching up with Benbaun who, although running well in the Listed, looks to have lost some of his edge.

Sea The Stars won the Group 2 in pleasing fashion. It is early days to start hailing him for this as Mourayan and Masterofthehorse were close up in the minor spots. However, Sea The Stars looks the sort who has more to offer.

Soul City had to work to earn the Million. In front from what proved an advantageous draw, he fought off all-comers in game fashion. His form in France tied in with that of Morny winner Bushranger, and in turn Mastercraftsman. He looks a natural successor to Paco Boy in that he will always be a force in Group Company but he may fall just short of Group 1 standard. Awinnersgame may have hit his stamina limit over this seven furlongs as he looked to be back-pedalling in the last half furlong.

Richard Hannon, trainer of Soul City, landed the fillies’ equivalent with Minor Vamp who had finished six lengths behind Rainbow View – form that continues to look strong.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 27th:

ASCOT RESULTS

The Listed Handicap Race for fillies came up light on quality on the face of it but a couple of horses are worthy of mention. Firstly, Jamboretta has developed into a big disappointment. This is an often-made observation. Although a robust attractive filly that tends to move well in her slower paces, she finds little off the bridle. Ghaidaa finished strongly in third. Don’t Forget Faith looks like a short-runner and as if seven will suit her better. She has however become more tractable and may poach something before the close of the year.

ROYAL LODGE STAKES (Group 2): This was perhaps not as strong a renewal as it might have been. Jukebox Jury paid a handsome compliment to Soul City by winning despite starting slowly. His form also ties in with that of the Prix Morny, won by Bushranger, which in turn links up with Mastercraftsman. This was a good effort from the winner, a grey Montjeu who, although not totally straightforward, has hopefully avoided some of the traits often associated with his sire. He tried hard and got on top of Cityscape inside the last furlong. He has the scope to progress but it is unlikely he will achieve high office. Cityscape, as suggested, is a galloper rather than a quickener. Nevertheless, this was a good effort and softer ground will help him. A Group win should come his way. On Our Way was a decent enough third with Orizaba [by Orpen and typically in and out] a tame fourth. He ought to have done better even with his thee pound penalty.

MEON VALLEY STUD FILLIES’ MILE (Group 1): This was Rainbow View’s toughest task to date and she one she passed despite her looking one of the least attractive beforehand. By Dynaformer, she is not typical of her sire. On the small side and sweating, she may have had enough for the season although her connections are toying with the idea of a tilt at the Breeders’ Cup Distaff. It is tempting to think she is a two-year-old pure and simple and that things may be tougher for her next year. But she moved with her customary ease in the race and pounced to take command inside the last furlong. It would take a brave man to state she will not win next year’s 1,000 Guineas but it is looking less likely as , although well put together, she is surprisingly small and lacks scope. But being small is no crime and she would not be the first small filly to train on. The runner-up, the highly thought of and immensely likeable Fantasia, is one for next year. On only her third run, she floundered early in the straight, on and off the bridle and looking likely to fade away. But she dug and fought when asked and although Dettori accepted the situation, she coasted home a clear second. She looks an Oaks filly who will be a force to reckon with next year. Dreamtheimpossible represented Ballydoyle with credit in third with the proximity of Beat Seven in fourth something of a mystery. Golden Stream is an imposing filly who has some growing to do. She should not be written off although this level is a notch or two beyond her.

Furnace, given a great ride by Miss Turner, won a roughhouse race for the Totesport Challenge Cup. The runner-up, Relative Order, now goes to Hong Kong. We’ll Come ran a fine race in third. He is something of a talented enigma but his yard is in such good form just now, the stable cat would been on the premises here. Golden Desert ran well in fifth, as did Bolodenka in sixth. Both look in great heart presently.

QUEEN ELIZABETH II Stakes (Group 1): Sweet revenge here for Raven’s Pass who has run well all season and put those stamina doubts to bed with a gutsy show. Leading over a furlong out, just as arch rival Henrythenavigator was making his move, he toughed it out and was going way at the finish. It has been a hard season for both colts but Raven’s Pass has had a break, whereas Henrythenavigator has been on the go since the Guineas. He showed a sign or two that he might have had enough for the time being but, given his connections it is likely he will go to Santa Anita.  These two had the race to themselves. Sabana Perdida was an honourable third but seven suits her better and she is a notch below this standard. Tamayuz did not run his race at all in fourth. The rest were wasting their time.

Meydan Princess gained some compensation for her consistency in the Listed Race. Her stable companion, Francesca D’Gorgio, always something of a hot head, was third. This is the second time she has put a decent run together. Crystany was another who looks like a win may be in the offing.

HAYDOCK RESULTS

The Michael Jarvis stable continued its relentless end-of-season assault by taking the first two races. Meshtri won the opener in determined fashion and Chief Editor, who has changed stables, bolted up, winning a six furlong handicap by four lengths. The ability has always been there and perhaps Mr Jarvis is will be able to fully unlock it.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 26th:

ASCOT RESULTS

The victory of Laddies Poker Two in the Class 2 handicap was achieved in tidy style and she looks, at present anyway, well ahead of the handicapper. In behind, one who has got himself well-treated, BERBICE, shaped pretty well. Not one to mortgage the house over, he may strike while the iron is tepid, particularly at a minor track. Striking Spirit was another to run well enough to warrant a look next time.

As the weights suggested, Penny’s Gift lifted the Class 2 Watership Down Sales Race. It was hard work for the filly but, having finished second in a sub-standard Lowther, she took advantage of the opportunity. Rosy Mantle ran surprisingly well in second whilst of the also-rans, Foundation Room was closing nicely at the end and may be more effective over a mile.

Crystal Capella’s win in the Listed Race told us little. She met Under The Rainbow on a going day and the mare harried her throughout the last furlong without ever looking likely to get up. Ronaldsay may have been a little unlucky in third. Susie May appears to have improved out of all proportion for a change of stable in finishing fourth at this level.

MAWATHEEQ is a name to conjure as his win in the Class 4 from a mark of 85 suggests he may be better than a handicapper. A confident stable call today, he strolled home on ground that was apparently on the easy side. This was only his third race and he looks set to follow in the footsteps of last year’s winner, Bankable by ascending the class ladder.

HAYDOCK RESULTS

The well-backed Damaniyat Girl handled fast ground well and looks a filly with a future when winning the maiden.

Alyarf, a strong son of Dixie Union was another who skipped over the ground for an emphatic success in the Class 5. He cleared away in the last furlong to drub modest opposition.

EQUININE, fancied by connections, plainly failed to handle the fast ground in the nursery. There is a race for this daughter of Namid on easier ground. She closed from an impossible position in the last furlong when the race was lost as far as she was concerned. She has dwelt on the last two occasions. Assuming she can overcome this trait, she is one to note when the ground alters.

By 4.55 the ground had become quick. They went fast from the get-go in the Class 3 Handicap and several floundered on a choppy surface. The Michael Jarvis stable is in ridiculous form at present and took this with Kal Berg. I hate to make an excuse but this ground was a bit quick for Silver Rime. The handicapper has him where he wants him but this was a race he had a chance of winning with so many exposed sorts in opposition. He may get another opportunity.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 25th:

PONTEFRACT RESULTS

As suspected, Imaam is a horse regressing. Once again a very short-price, he was beaten tamely in the maiden.

CALLIGRAPHER on the other hand, eight lengths behind him last time, was a very different proposition in the second division. Although only squeezing home from Film Set, he won with a little to spare and looks the sort to continue to improve. These two were clear and both look worth following.

FRAGRANCY won the Class 2 Handicap in a fast time and may be a filly at the peak of her form just now.

Takaatuf may not have achieved much in beating Custody in the maiden, as the runner-up is not considered a leading light by his stable.

WEDNESDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 24th:

GOODWOOD RESULTS

Taking a line through Liberation, there was little between Appraisal and Roman Glory on form in the first division of the maiden auction. However, as so often happens, the message for Roman Glory overpowered any form consideration and he started at cramped odds. Appraisal, by Mark Of Esteem, possibly handled rain-softened ground the better and won with something to spare. Roman Glory managed second with Importer, Tarzan and Sairaam all close up in a race of dubious merit. The winner would be of interest in a nursery.

The second division looked below the standard of the first, although this was not reflected in the time. Master Fong [Dr Fong] was a surprise winner with the second and third also representing stallions with an easy ground influence.

Who would have thought it? On his ninth start, Heliodor, stepped up to nine furlongs and on easier ground, pounced late to draw away from the promising Headline Act, who appeared to have the field in trouble, including the winner, from two out. Although by Dalakhani, he may not have stayed this trip today, did sweat up a little but should have no trouble losing his maiden tag.

Mandarin Spirit may win next time out. There was a message for him in the Class 4 handicap. In finishing fourth, he gave the impression he is in form and only needs a slight drop in grade to cash-in.

The Class 1 Listed looked tricky beforehand and the result was not that easy to predict. Certainly a dead-heat was not envisaged, but in all honesty it did not concern the most obvious of the seven candidates. Tranquil Tiger, something of a law unto himself, was equipped in blinkers and made a fierce gallop that saw him some ten lengths clear at one point. Held together by the increasingly excellent Tom Queally, it was only inside the last furlong that Tranquil Tiger began to tread water. But he stays well and being by Selkirk, coped with conditions that tested some of his rivals to the limit. Queally coaxed him into hanging on. Hearthstead Maision [by Peintre Celebre] forced the result in the last stride. Many Volumes [by Chester House] probably found the ground too soft. He never threatened but ran well enough in third although his backers could never have been anything other than hopeful. Purple Moon shaped nicely after his absence. It was the usual Godolphin story with Meydan City and Mr Aviator was outclassed.

The last three races offered little for the future. Greylami, something of an under-achiever, won the Class 4 Handicap with Tomintoul Flyer turning in another tame effort. Thumbs Up was no better.

Riverscape was a market plunge in the following handicap but never looked like collecting.

Apparently, a tongue-tie made all the difference to Endodoc the in apprentice sprint.

REDCAR  RESULTS

Royal Acclamation took the eye in the closing Class 6 Handicap. Quite why anyone would wish to stop a horse in such a race is unclear but that was how it looked.

TUESDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 23rd:

BEVERLEY RESULTS

The defeat of Oldjoesaid was somewhat disappointing in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes considering the withdrawal of Hoh Mike seemed to hand the contest to him on a plate. He had every chance but, although narrowly beaten and closing at the line, his inability to head Strike Up The Band and ultimately Fullandby tends to place him in his rightful box. He has looked capable of winning at this sort of level on more than one occasion, this was his chance today – one he failed to take.

MONDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 22nd:

KEMPTON RESULTS

Red Spider won a very ordinary maiden but in pleasing style. He has a long loping stride, which he lengthened down the straight. He only accounted for a bunch of platers in the words of his jockey, Jimmy Fortune. That may be so but the time was respectable and this son of Rahy, who is stoutly bred on the distaff side, may only be a galloper but he looks a highly effective one and more should be heard of him.

Ave was another who took the eye on a day when several useful two-year-old were on show. She had finished a promising fourth to Intense at Salisbury and probably did not improve too much on that in taking the Class 4 maiden for fillies. She could do with strengthening up but it is churlish to knock this win. Say No Now set a fair standard in second, whilst Ghanaati ran on nicely in the closing stages for third.

More was to come in the shape of Splashdown, a rare first time winner for the sire Falbrav. Backed in the morning and looking in good shape, she drifted on course when proving reluctant at the stalls. She justified her high home reputation when knuckling down a furlong out to sweep past her rivals for a tidy success. The time was a second slower than Ave’s but probably due to Splashdown’s greenness. She was always going to get there from a  furlong out, has a turn of foot and can improve on this providing her antics at the start was only a one-off.

Three-year-old, Critical Acclaim looked different class in the paddock and in her race for the Class 4 Maiden Fillies. Again, the opposition was flimsy but it was a case of job done for a well-bred daughter of Peintre Celebre. We may see more of her at a time of year when a filly in form can surprise.

On his best behaviour, Vhujon was entitled to win the Class 4 Handicap, which he achieved.

Armure beat a strong field for the Class 3 Handicap. Inventor and Walking Talking were entitled to be prominent and fought out the minors. Detonator did well in fourth, whilst Hatton  Flight, returning from a two month absence, was another who pleased. Top weight Olympic City travelled well but did not quite get home over this trip. She is worth keeping in mind. Art Man will have disappointed connections although it may be premature to write him off. A winter campaign in Dubai is envisaged as all his best form is on an artificial surface. He will have to do better than this but improvement is not out of the question. Winners should emerge from this event.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 20th:

NEWBURY RESULTS

Those that had run dominated the Class 4 Maiden over seven. Alazeyab had finished just over three lengths behind Anmar at Sandown, form that is working out better than I gave it credit for at the time, although I still feel it will be found wanting at a higher level. Under a determined ride, Alazeyab cut down long time leader, King’s Sabre (showed nothing first time at Lingfield), with Holyrood a never nearer third. He is now qualified for handicaps and that would seem the obvious route.

The Class 2 Nursery went to Nasri who confirmed and possibly surpassed earlier form with Definightly. The pair were first and second but it was Nasri who had all the work to do in-running and then jinked when hitting the front, making him value for an extra pound or two. Skid Solo ran to something like his first run, which was back in the spring. In finishing third, he is another to signpost the renaissance of the Chapple-Hyam stable. In fourth, Cheviot did little wrong. Usually a strong nursery, this year it looked no exception.

Dubai Duty Free Mill Reef (Group 2): The strong Prix Morny form was upheld here but not perhaps with the expected horse. Lord Shanakill, who had finished third and behind Gallagher that day, was able to reverse with a battling performance. Gallagher moves very smoothly in his slower paces but this is the third time he has moved up to win only to come away with a minor prize. His attitude is not questionable but it seems fair to say he has one burst of speed and does not find a great deal off the bridle. Perhaps he needs holding up for a do-or-die finish; arguably, an extra furlong may suit, but, given his limitations, winning at this level will not be easy. Sayif, returning to the track after Goodwood two months ago – yes, it really was that long ago – was another inmate from the Chapple-Hyam yard to run well. Close attention has to be paid to this stable in the dying embers of the season. Damien, rather like Gallagher, is a traveller rather than a finisher, but again no aspersions can be cast his way. Marine Boy, so impressive on his debut, once again ran for four furlongs. Pity the trip was six! A One Cool Cat, he looks like a show boater. The rest, headed by Khor Dubai, were out of their depth.

With three in the Class 2 John Smith’s Stakes, Luca Cumani set punters something of a poser. Ask The Butler seemed the most obvious; consequently he went off favourite. However, smart money emerged for his stable mate, Previs, and it proved expertly placed. This son of Sakhee has taken time to hit top gear as a racehorse but he routed a fair field from a mark of 92. His win was another example of his trainer’s skill. Rose Street has vindicated the decision to keep her in training and, always to the fore, kept on bravely once the easy winner had flown. Ask The Butler did not have the best of runs but the suspicion is the handicapper is in control for the time being. The trainer was quick to state that he feels a fortnight is too soon for Previs to be targeted for the Cambridgeshire, asserting his number one contender and the horse trained with the event in mind is Swop.

In the Group 3 over the minimum, Enticing, not for the first time, developed into a disappointing favourite. Moorhouse Lad lasted in the face of a blanket finish, spearheaded by a luckless Wi Dud, Toms Laughter and Look Busy who, having looked the winner entering the final furlong, ran out of gas close home. This company was a little too exacting for her.

Control Zone may not have beaten a great deal in the second division of the seven-furlong maiden but did so in taking style. From the Meehan stable, he gave them some consolation for the defeat of Gallagher and could be smart. Debutants from this yard normally find plenty of improvement. The winning time was similar to that recorded by Alazeyab earlier, but this son of Daggers Drawn looks to have the greater scope for improvement. The beautifully bred History Lesson chased him home with some floppy looking youngsters in behind.

The wonderfully consistent Yaddree continued the momentum of the Michael Jarvis yard when proving too good for  Cat Junior (another Storm Cat who has yet to fulfil his potential) and With Interest. This was a Class 3 Conditions Stakes. Elysee Palace rounded off the day for the Jarvis stable when completing a treble on the card for them in the Class 4 Handicap.

NEWMARKET T RESULTS

The victory of Fantasy Explorer in the Class 4 Handicap was not entirely unexpected, at least in this quarter. He had run better than his eventual finishing position suggested at Doncaster last time and, returned to a course he likes, beat some seasoned handicappers. Favourite, Without Prejudice, went off a typical Saturday price – 6/4 in a field of nineteen – and those partaking have only themselves to blame.

Mango Lady looked a decent enough filly when she beat some types who are struggling to break their maidens. Green and on and off the bridle, Hayley Turner gathered and booted her clear a furlong out. Some fancy autumn plans wait for this filly. As always, Hayley gave her an expert ride.

There was another victory for the fairer sex in the Class 3 Handicap. Kirsty Milczarek stormed through inside the last furlong on Storyland to pounce on Montbretia, who had looked all over the winner when hitting the front a furlong out. Possibly Ted Durcan pressed the button a little too soon on the runner-up, but Storyland was not for catching in any case.

AYR RESULTS

Danehill Destiny has had three hard races in quick succession now and her effort when an honourable third in the Group 3 seems to confirm this is as good as she is.

The annual conundrum that is the which side of the track is best, also known as the Ayr Gold Cup, was once again won by David Nicholls, who supplied the second for good measure. Confuchias kept on well, having appeared outpaced early, for third. There is a race to be won with him on easy ground but he might appreciate a break after what looked like a hard race here and one cannot help but suspect that today was the day.

Having been asked too many searching questions in the early part of the season, Lady Deauville maintained a fine sequence at its end. She strolled away with the Listed Race from Mutajarred and Perks, who found this company a bridge too far. Bushman was disappointing but may return all the better for this run, his first since July.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 19th:

NEWBURY RESULTS

Division 1 of the maiden was all about one horse: HUNTDOWN – who was expected to win after such a good debut at Newmarket. He came right away in the end having looked for a moment as if he was taking time to become organised. By Elusive Quality, he has a fast ground action, changed legs a few times and can better this on his surface. He looks very useful. All About You turned in a pleasing introduction in second but, as with the rest, was in a different league.

Kalahari Gold sustained an excellent year when lifted the Listed Race from Il Warrd who had looked the winner when bursting clear over a furlong out. The winner is improving fast. Ordnance Row ran a game race from his penalty in third. The petrol gauge on Royal Vintage swung to empty very quickly but Hotel Du Cap finished strongly in fifth and now the Wragg yard have found some form, he may be one to follow.

The Group 3 Dubai Duty Free Arc Trial fell well short of that standard. Not for the first time, Multidimensional went from travelling to retreating somewhat rapidly. Spanish Moon was mugged close home by Blue Monday, the pair pulling away from Multidimensional and Regime.

Marcus Tregoning and formerly Dick Hern used to target the Class 2 Haynes, Hanson & Clark Stakes and Tregoning produced something of a rabbit from the hat in the shape of Taameer to beat several strongly fancied opponents. An attractive son of Beat Hollow, Taameer burst on the scene in a race that changed complexion inside the final furlong. Full Toss stayed on for second with Palavicini only third. He had taken the eye behind Delegator on his debut without threatening to beat the winner. There were no excuses today; he travelled well but failed to find that bit extra that means the difference between winning and losing. Souter Point, said to be a couple of lengths behind Cityscape at home, was beaten a good way.

Barry Hills introduced a nice type in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes in Lassarina. Patiently ridden, she caught her rivals under considerate handling. With a Brighton winner in third and a Lingfield winner not far off in fourth, this may not have been the best of races but the winner is entitled to improve.

The second division of the six-furlong maiden was nowhere near as good as the first won by Huntdown. Invincible Heart was flattered by his run at Doncaster in a race that may not work out too well. Odds-on here, he made hard work of getting to the front. Once there, Wave Aside who showed little at Windsor but displayed a fine turn of foot today picked him off.

NEWMARKET RESULTS

Archie Rice justified favouritism in the Class 4 Median Auction Stakes, although the late rattle of the filly Winged Harriet almost prevailed. The winner knew the time of day after a run at York but the runner-up was having her first experience and was arguably unlucky not to get up. GLOWING PRAISE, a colt by Fantastic Light who will come into his own over further, will have pleased connections in fifth and looks sure to improve.

Those that had run dominated the Class 4 Maiden Fillies’ Stakes. Midday made hard work of winning but she was always going to get there, finishing with her ears half-cocked. She inched out Three Moons with Featherweight and Al Tamooh the next two to finish. Apparently, Midday is highly thought of at home but on racecourse evidence has some improvement to make to justify this. It could be she is keeping something back and that she may be the sort to prove her stable right when the chips are down, as they were today. There was a gamble on the Chapple-Hyam-trained Bombina, ultimately a non-runner, but presumably a name to remember.

On a card largely consisting of two-year-old maidens, form students only had Absent Pleasure to seize on after he had beaten the impressive Newbury winner Huntdown last time. Accorded a mark of 88 in the nursery, Absent Pleasure looked a potential blot. He travelled like one for most of the race but could not quite get to Johnmanderville and Russian George.

Nehaam looks a useful recruit, having caught Baariq and the solid yardstick horse, Summers Target, with something to spare in Div 1 of the Class 4 Maiden.

By this time, it was becoming apparent there was a draw bias for high numbers, making a day already difficult to unravel even trickier. In the second division of the seven-furlong maiden, once again, a high numbered horse won. North East Corner (drawn widest of all) was always moving easily and had to withstand a vigorously ridden Alhaque close home. In this case, the next three cast a shadow over the worth of this as a race but the front two are probably okay.

AYR  RESULTS

The one thing to take from this card is that low numbers in the Silver Cup had a massive advantage, at least today.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 18th:

AYR  RESULTS

Allied Powers has held his form remarkably well and relishes soft ground. He was too good for Blue Spinnaker in the Class 2 Handicap.

YARMOUTH  RESULTS

The star of the day was ALWAARY, a striking Dynaformer colt who floated over the ground to pick up Cloudy Start at his leisure. He was always moving effortlessly and judging by the way he was ridden (with extreme confidence by a jockey not renown for sitting still when off the pace), it was clear Alwaary’s ability was no secret to connections. This represented a considerable step up on his debut and if he can improve as much again, he could be a big player in something like the Horris Hill at Newbury. This ground brings out the best in him and it could be he will be a different proposition if required to race on soft. On the other hand, the runner-up, Cloudy Start, being by Oasis Dream and colt with feet the size of dinner plates, will be much better when the ground eases. This is borne out by his action as he hits the ground hard. He would be interesting in a nursery if the handicapper gives him half a chance. He will certainly win his maiden on softer ground.

Fiulin deserves some credit for his courage in the Class 2 Handicap, out-battling Crete, who stuck his head in the air, and Kossack.

Magaling, turned over when odds-on last time, made amends in the Class 5 Maiden. The field he beat did not appear to amount to much.

WEDNESDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 17th

YARMOUTH  RESULTS

They looked a nice bunch in the two-year-old maiden. Marching Time is still green and took his time to realise what was required. Once he found his stride, he eventually changed gear from mid-division to mow down the opposition. He won going away and should make up into a decent three-year-old. The filly, Tamarah, whose career thus far looks undistinguished, beat the rest. Rafaan was an okay third ahead of Forte Dei Marmi who is eligible for handicaps. Next we had the high rollers: Thousand Miles, who was pushed along throughout and a never-nearer fifth, and Emirates Roadshow. He cost a mere $800,000 and looks another injudicious Godolphin purchase. A good-looking colt that was not knocked about, he has a head carriage that hints he may prefer to do something else for a living.

Those with experience dominated the maiden fillies won by Bouvardia, who made all. Never Lose and Fen Spirit were next ahead of Tiger Eye, a nice well-ground daughter of Danehill Dancer, who looks the one most likely to improve for the run.

Glass Harmonium provided a quick double for the Stoute team when easily winning the second division of the maiden. He had finished over four lengths behind Anmar in a race that is working out in this grade and looks to have improved plenty since.

Kingdom Of Fife was closing on the two principals in the last furlong of the Class 3 Handicap but the line came too soon for him. Only beaten inches, he can gain compensation, possibly upped to twelve furlongs or on a more testing track.

Cape Amber finally opened her account for the season having been highly tried since winning her maiden at two. She ran the opposition ragged in the Listed event over ten furlongs, having made all and quickened from the turn. There is no doubt this was Cape Amber at her best and it would appear she is presently in bloom. Those immediately behind her were hard to fancy. Moon Sister in second and Classic Legend in third were well beaten and appeared to be running out of their grade. Last year’s winner, Samira Gold, was a never-nearer fourth (but beaten eleven lengths), ahead of Makaaseb who looks a non-stayer. The rest, including the disappointing Melodramatic, for whatever reason were making up the numbers.

SANDOWN  RESULTS

Jubilee Juggins was beaten in a weak nursery. Whatever his merits, he does need softer ground to show his best.

WINGWALKER was the first of two extremely promising two-year-olds in the Class 3 Novice Stakes. Patiently ridden, he had to be switched but found a telling turn of foot to outspeed Rileyskeepingfaith and Touching. This was obviously a hand-picked opportunity for a colt whose biggest stumbling block for success at a high level may be between his ears. Still immature, he pulled hard early and has an action that suggests he will not act on firm ground. The form from his Newmarket maiden is rock solid and he has the potential to become next year’s Twice Over. His trainer is clearly treading softly at present.

Less complicated than Wingwalker, FOUR WINDS beat a well-fancied RA Junior in the maiden with something to spare. He has improved since a promising debut behind Delegator. A well-built son of Red Ransom, he did not look fully tuned for this and appeals as the sort to continue to progress. He is one of several the Queen can look forward to for next season.

TUESDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 16th:

YARMOUTH RESULTS

Defector ran very poorly from what should have been a winning mark in the Nursery. Having shaped with promise, his attitude looked questionable as he stuck his head in the air when asked to quicken. Pride Of India in the following maiden looks another to swerve in future. For whatever reason he did not want to race and Doric Lady got off the mark having shown a glimmer of promise at Newmarket this time last year. Hoh Mike, winless this season, was unable to rectify that record in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. Dropped back in trip, front-running Speedy Dollar lasted well. This was his first run for three months and this lightly-raced type may be open to further improvement. Hoh Mike remains hard to win with, Francesca D’Gorgio appears to have run on well but is problematical, whilst Spitfire and Law Lord continue to under-perform.

LINGFIELD RESULTS

All the talk after the Class 5 Maiden was of the Godolphin colt known as Mutheeb, who won nicely but has some way to go before he justifies his half-a-million pound price tag. Party Frock in second is ordinary but it was hard not to notice the run of TRIPLE DREAM, having his third outing. He made steady headway on the outside with his jockey doing as little as possible and is one to look out for next time assuming he will be in a handicap. Spring To Fame enhanced the Sandown form of the maiden won by Brief Candle from Summers Target with a runaway success in the last. He is not over big but has an engine, although placing him will not be a straightforward task from here on.

MONDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 15th:

LEICESTER RESULTS

No To Trident may not be a star and has not built on early season promise; however relegated to a claimer, he narrowly failed to overhaul veteran, Nawamees. This was not a bad race and his mark of 73 should give him a chance to win a small event.

Totem Flower went within a neck of winning the Class 5 Handicap and it is surely only a matter of time before she goes one better.

MUSSELBURGH RESULTS

The Ramsden mob knew what they were doing when they backed Merchant Of Dubai in the Class 5 Handicap. He stays well for a son of Dubai Destination and further success at such a level seems likely.

Wind Star was another well-backed horse for the stable in the Claiming Stakes. He has often promised more than he has delivered so it was no surprise to see him at this level.

Go Nani Go did enough in the Class 3 Nursery after a three month absence to suggest he may be sharp enough next time to be considered.

SUNDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 14th:

LONGCHAMP RESULTS

First up on a day choc-full of talent was the unbeaten Zarkava in the Qatar Prix Vermeille, attempting the full Arc trip for the first time. She was simply awesome. Slowly away (something of a worry if she were to repeat this on the big day), she was stone last for much of the way but, once pulled to the outside, she powered down the straight with her customary fluency. She toyed with the opposition, pouncing close home to deprive Dar Re Mi. The runner-up had chased home Lush Lashes last time – not in itself necessarily good enough to win an Arc – but the victory of Zarkava overshadowed that. Now we know she stays, it will take a very good horse to lower her colours in the Arc but it takes an exceptional filly – particularly a three-year-old – to win the Arc. Fillies have a reasonable record in the race with just over 20 percent proving successful, but they have not fared so well in recent years. The last filly to score was Urban Sea in 1993, who was a four-year-old; the last winning three-year-old filly was Akiyda in 1982 – strangely enough owned by the Aga Khan. Therefore, to a degree Zarkava has a few trends to buck if she is to return to glory next month. Treat Gently and Michita followed Dar Re Mi home in third and fourth today.

Next up was the French Derby winner Vision D’Etat, also unbeaten and a clever winner of the Prix Niel. He caught Ideal World and Centennial close home to score with something in hand, but this form will need improving upon to make him anything other than a player for places in the Arc.

Zambezi Sun in part finally justified the hype that has always surrounded him when winning the Group 2 Prix Foy. A horse that has always looked better than he races, he did have every chance to duck out in the closing stages. It looked as if he might do just that when Schiaperelli regained the lead inside the last furlong but, shaken up, although leaning on the runner-up, he did see his race out in a close tussle. Schiaparelli, winner of the 2006 German Derby, looks smart and for once may prove a shrewd acquisition for Godolphin. Of the two, he may fine the more improvement but, although not far short of Group 1 standard, both will need to raise their game at the highest grade.

CURRAGH RESULTS

Although only a narrow winner of the Group 1 National Stakes, it would be wrong to decry Mastercraftsman, considering he looked as if he may have just needed the run and the soft ground was all against him. He battled on in determined fashion to withstand a persistent challenge from the Gimcrack winner, Shaweel. Now, at last, we are seeing a solid form line to juveniles: that represented by this horse, Bushranger and the Prix Morny form that also encompasses the improving Soul City through the fourth that day.

Mastercraftsman had a gruelling race here and may need freshening up before we see him again. There is a division of opinion in the stable as to which is the better, he or Rip Van Winkle. There is also a train a thought that a couple of unraced stars of equal merit are waiting in the wings.

At GREAT LEIGHS, Askar Tau continues to improve and it seems the handicapper is having trouble containing his progress. In winning his fifth race on the spin in the Class 2 Handicap, he has come a long way since narrowly edged out over this track in June. That day his mark was 25lbs lower than his winning one now.

CONFRONT ran pleasingly in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes and is entitled to improve for this his first outing since April. By Nayef, himself an autumn horse, Confront, a one-time Guineas fancy, may lift a decent prize next time.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 13th:

DONCASTER RESULTS

CHAMPAGNE STAKES (Group 2): In winning, Westphalia confirmed the value of the Prix Morny form as he had finished second to its winner, Bushranger. A disappointment at the Curragh when odds-on last time on heavy ground,

Westphalia was back to top form and delivered under a cool ride from Johnny Murtagh to snatch it close home from Zacinto. The runner-up ran well here. He has come on considerably since we last saw him at Sandown in July when he was all legs. In a race run at a slow pace early, he worked his way to the front over a furlong out to head Playfellow but was unable to withstand the late surge of the winner. Playfellow narrowly kept Ouqba at bay for third with Master Noverre in fifth. With all due respect to connections, the latter two in particular seem short of Group 2 standard. War Native clearly has ability but all the time he impersonates a motor bike at full-throttle, he is never going to show it. It would be a surprise if the powerful O’Brien and Stoute yards do not house better than today’s principals.

We got the usual scrum for The Portland Handicap, won by the terrifically reliable Hogmaneigh from a career best mark of a hundred. He struck close home in a three-way head-bobber with River Falcon and Siren’s Gift. There is not much to say about the first three. Siren’s Gift, as is her wont, played up at the start decanting young David Probert, who let her bowl in the race in first-time blinkers. Oldjoesaid finished strongly in fourth after a tardy start. As this was only his fifth outing of the season, it could be he will be closer next time. Of the rest, Evens And Odds ran too freely and dropped to nothing and Chief Editor never delivered a blow and appears to have gone off the boil.

LADBROKE SPRINT CUP (Group 1): Rerouted from Haydock and a cracking sprint to round off the domestic season at such a level. In winning, African Rose paid a great compliment to her Deauville conqueror, Marchand D’or as did Utmost Respect who finished fourth that day and replicated the form with the filly today by finishing third. African Rose has a blistering turn of foot, enabling her to slice through her field and then hold the late thrust of Assertive. She became slightly fractious beforehand but, although clearly wound up to the minute, settled once on the track. Corrybrough was an honourable fourth, whilst Prime Defender (just short of this grade) andAncien Regime performed with credit on the heels of the leaders. US Ranger showed little and has to remain on the cold list.

ST LEGER STAKES (Group1): Conduit has improved throughout the season and peaked to win this Group 1 with some ease. From the first crop of Dalakhani, arguably he had his optimum conditions for the first time today. A step up in trip and easy ground suited him well as he was able to lob off a very fast pace, ably switched off by Frankie Dettori. When the time came to quicken, Conduit was able to find plenty of acceleration. There may be more to come next year, as he did not win this by stamina alone. Unsung Heroine chased him home with Look Here probably finding the trip beyond her. She was travelling like a winner three out but it looked as if she hit the buffers shortly afterwards. Enroller ran above himself in fifth – he does stay and had his ground conditions today. Frozen Fire flattened out down the straight and could well have found such a searching gallop (set by his stable companion) his undoing; however, a typical Montjeu, he does seem to have two ways of running. Doctor Fremantle was another who faded to nothing in the manner of a non-stayer.

NATIONAL EXPRESS PARK STAKES (Group 2): Won, as it was last year, by Arabian Gleam. He outstayed Major Cadeaux, on whom Ryan Moore failed to excel. He was in behind, had to switch and used up his mount’s speed to get to a challenging position. Arabian Gleam was extending the advantage in the last fifty yards by which time Major Cadeaux had done all he could. Al Qasi ran his usual decent race in third. Laa Rayb, so impressive in France, ran a now-you-see-me-now-you-don’t race that is typical of the Johnston yard.

The finish of the Class 2 Handicap silenced a bubbling crowd when Magicalmysterytour defied a year’s absence. Tastahil, who is suited by soft ground, stayed the trip well in second whilst another returning from the past, Walking Talking, absent since Royal Ascot of last year, stayed on to take third. On this evidence, he should win something before the close of play. Meshtri and Dr Faustus gave the race a solid look. Moonquake is bred to stay a mile and not a yard further but had no trouble seeing out this trip at Royal Ascot. He was soon in trouble today, was beaten a country mile and it could be, given his lengthy absence, all is not well.

Battle Of Hastings won the Class 2 Nursery from some hard to weight up opponents.

Virtual wound up the day winning the Class 2 Handicap, beating some useful handicappers in the process. Gold Sovereign seemed more at home on this ground, Huzzah ran his usual game race in third with Mia’s Boy showing he is still capable of potting a race, even from the elevated rating of 104 when finishing a hampered fifth.

GOODWOOD RESULTS

Zafisio seemed to cope with soft ground better than the runner-up, Anmar in the Listed race. There was money for the winner [by Efisio] and although he tried hard, Anmar was always rocking and rolling on the ground.

A combination of the ground and the trip contrived to beat Contretemps in the maiden. Include the trip of a mile and this adds up to a poor piece of placing by the boys in blue. Their policy of buying too many American-breds continues to thwart their progress and they have a lot of catching up to do if they are to regain former glory.

Elsewhere, Look Busy looked unlucky at Chester where Green Park, who has threatened to win a sprint handicap recently, did just that from the outside draw.Great Leighs is attracting bigger and better cards but the pickings are not getting any easier. Irish Mayhem was impressive in the Class 2 Handicap.

Katiyra won the Group 2 at the Curragh over her right trip of ten furlongs and Septimus decimated a sub-standard field for the Irish St Leger.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 12th:

DONCASTER RESULTS

The Group 2 Flying Childers and perhaps once again we have to question the overall standard here. Very few two-year-olds have impressed this year and once again they finished in a heap. In a clean sweep for the fillies, Madame Trop Vite, who according to her jockey loves the soft ground, lasted home from Anglezarke and MYTHICAL BORDER who hated the ground, looks to have improved, and is the horse to take from this. Yet another filly, Danehill Destiny, was a close fourth. She may be better over six as she was closing at the death but never looked like doing enough, hard though she tried. Senor Mirasol headed the colts in fifth whilst the decision to run Lord Shanakill back at five proved inadvisable although he did not get any luck in running. Fleeting Spirit won this last year and it will be a major surprise if this year’s renewal throws up anything of that calibre.

For a race over the St Leger distance and on soft ground, those that dictated the pace in the Mallard Stakes went much too fast. Predictably, Laterly, Bogside Theatre and Cool Judgement (probably failed to stay anyway) were all running on empty from the home turn. Mull of Dubai came there with a customary smooth run two out but failed to see it out, leaving it to the more conservatively ridden The Betchworth Kid and Bollin Felix to come home first and second. They finished well strung out for the minors. Mull of Kintyre looks in good heart currently and may yet win a race before the end of the season. But he will need to return to the more suitable a mile-and-a-half, a distance he has done his winning over, as today’s trip was too far.

The Group 2 Doncaster Cup went to last year’s St Leger favourite Honolulu, who in winning the Queen Alexandria at Royal Ascot has already demonstrated staying is his forte. Royal And Regal tried to make all but such tactics are hard to achieve at this level and over such a trip. He ran out of gas inside the last furlong once the winner had asserted, allowing habitual placer, Balkan Knight, to sneak second.

Lightly-raced Spacious got off the mark for the season in the Group 2 Conditions Stakes and plaudits must go to Robert Winston on the winner, who nursed the filly home on the ground and to Alan Munro for delivering Moyenne Corniche with a perfectly timed last stride challenge. There is nothing much to draw form this; although Spacious, being by Nayef, may have another race in her before the end of the season.

Division 1 of the maiden looked a strong race. Kite Wood had pleased on his debut at Leicester and this son of Galileo has clearly done well physically since. Although his Leicester form was nothing to write home about, he knew his job today and battled on in adverse conditions to hold all-comers. Galileo is producing stock that handles all types of ground and it would appear he has the hallmarks of being a great stallion. La De Two, another Galileo, finished fast to snatch second ahead of the Oasis Dream colt Monitor Closely. Espiritu possibly travelled as well as anything throughout but appeared not to stay the trip and faded in the last furlong. In fifth, the Tipperary third, Golden Sword, ran no more than okay but is not considered as being in the top rank at Ballydoyle. We should see future winners emerging from this race.

The run of Mustaqer in the last was disappointing. Cry Of Freedom, who beat him at Newbury, has since run poorly and it may be it was not quite such a good debut from Mustaqer as it looked at the time.

SANDOWN RESULTS

SILVER RIME should have won the Class 3 handicap but events conspired against him. Posted wide and then hanging under pressure, but putting his best foot forward when realising what was required, he finished strongly in third behind Red Rumour and Admiral Dundass. This was his first run for two months and earlier form with the likes of Perks, suggests he goes into the autumn a reasonably handicapped horse.

The form from the final event, The Class 4 Handicap, should be treated with caution. After an absence of four months, the winner, Dr Livingstone, presumably was having a prep-run for a campaign over hurdles. He beat Times Vital, another who had been off the track for a while – two months in his case – and it showed. He flopped out of the stalls, was a million after a couple of furlongs but rattled home with purpose. One would think he could be of interest next time but there were a lot of under achievers in behind.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 11th

DONCASTER RESULTS

Overnight rain seemed to have softened the ground and although by Captain Rio, the short-priced favourite for the Class 3, Midnight Cruiser, did not look at home on it. Soon under pressure, he was unable to pick up, leaving the unraced Secrecy, already a gelding, to produce the required turn of foot. Courageous took second ahead of Yorksters Girl [ten lengths behind Rainbow View last time]. With Midnight Cruiser only fourth, and the conditions of this race favouring the unraced contingent, it is difficult to know what to make of this as an event.

Allegretto comes to hand at this time of year, escaped a Group 1 penalty and more importantly, handles soft ground. She turned the Park Hill into a procession once nudged clear. The two O’Brien representatives that finished second and third are hard to evaluate, whereas Gravitation has an action that is incompatible with ground this soft. Alan Munro handled her kindly once her chance had gone. She is better than this but this was Allegretto’s day. The race started in controversial circumstances when the nibbled-at Gull Wing decided she was having none of it and refused to race.

As so often applies in sales races, despite the numbers, only a handful stood a realistic chance in the Class 2 Weatherby’s 2-Y-0 Stakes. Those that could be included on the short-list were Awinnersgame, Talking Hands, Viva Ronaldo, Damien and Foundation Room. They bet 6/1 the field about a six or seven-horse field. They have to be attractive odds but of course, you still have to name the right one. But for those that achieved that, tremendous value was on offer. In the end Damien and Awinnersgame came clear with Dettori on the latter just blitzing home the better. It is only a matter of time before Damien lands a decent prize. He may not be out of place in the Middle Park over half-a-furlong shorter trip. It was a long-looking five lengths back to Brae Hill with maiden filly Cavera in fourth. Talking Hands did little for the Solario form although was doing all his best work at the finish in fifth in the manner of one who would benefit from a return to further. Viva Ronaldo is just short of this class but was a respectable sixth. A low draw was no assistance to lightly-weighted Foundation Room who may not be up to this sort of assignment in any case.

The victory of RAINBOW VIEW in the Group2 May Hill was almost embarrassing. She lobbed along at the rear until cutting through her field to saunter home without being shaken up. She has replicated her Newmarket form with Snoqualmie Girl. Like everything else here, Rose Diamond, who was second to the smart Fantasia, was comprehensively beaten by the winner but did enough in fourth to encourage connections of Fantasia that they have the filly they seem to think they do. However, Rainbow View approaches the final stage of the season as the standout filly for next year’s Classics.

Royal Confidence tasted success at this meeting last year in the fillies’ nursery. Since then she has been highly tried (not disgraced in the Guineas) but back to her class in the Listed event, she cut Chantilly Tiffany down close home. Festoso signposted a lucrative end of season campaign could be in store with an excellent third on this her belated appearance. Red Dune has a top of the ground action. As usual she took the field along but kept on when headed.Wasan got the better of a desperate tussle with Allied Powers in the Class 2 Handicap, a race that may not have been worth too much as many of the participants were swimming against the tide as regards trip, ground or attitude.

The last race was all about the progressive Main Aim who cruised away with the Class 3 handicap. Like so many offspring of Oasis Dream, he handles cut. This win off 90 is not a true reflection of his ability – he looks smart.

At BRIGHTON, LIBERATION, who had caught the eye at Sandown behind the Godolphin colt Anmar, had to work for his success. Now, Brighton is a horrible track, especially when it is soft and few green horses impress on its twists and turns. But the fact Liberation was sent here to break his duck does confirm what was suspected at the time of his debut – namely the maiden at Sandown he finished third in was probably not that good.

Despite weakness in the market, Alcalde won the maiden very easily. He is supposed to decent according to the grapevine although he probably beat little.

SANDOWN RESULTS

Atlantic Sport has been something of an enigma so far. Lauded as the best juvenile in the Channon pack last year, he started his career in the best possible way when beating a well-touted field at Ascot. It has been on and off since; today was on and although his sights were set higher than a Listed Race at one time, he did have too speed for Dijeerr and Icelandic.

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 10th:

DONCASTER RESULTS

The form of Rainbow View received yet another boost in the Class 3 Nursery won by Ballantrae from a mark of 83. She had finished ninth in the Sweet Solera on the run up to this. Mister Dee Bee showed improved form in second ahead of Cook’s Endeavour.

Perks, who loves easy ground, was a convincing winner of the Conditions Stakes when accounting for With Interest. It may not be significant, but his three wins have been on left-handed courses -two of them here – the other at Haydock.

Predictably, Benbaun failed to handle the soft conditions and hardly helped his cause with a slow start. Galeota repeated last year’s win in this Listed Race but on very different ground. To be fair this was not over competitive but he saw it out well ahead of Loch Verdi and Moorhouse Lad. Turn On The Style may have needed this. Failing to break with his customary speed, he stayed on under considerate handling without ever threatening. He may be a different proposition next time, particularly if returned to the all-weather.

Bonnie Charlie is all courage and had to dig deep to secure the Class 2 Stakes. One of the first under pressure, he kept finding to wear down Faraway Flower inside the last furlong. The winner has solid form. Elnawin, the horse that had beaten him at Newmarket, scrambled home in the Group 3 on Saturday. But it is hard to think that this represents top juvenile form. Faraway Flower, one of two fillies in the race, fought back close home and looks to be improving. Invincible Heart, who showed promise behind Wingwalker on his debut and then appeared to have failed to progress next time, was a close up third. This run does again frank the claims of Wingwalker – surely a horse of interest on his reappearance.

Slugger O’Toole further emphasised that the Barry Hills stable is finally hitting its stride after a wretched year plagued by the virus. His game win over Harrison George, who had finished sixth in the Stewards’ Cup, represents his best effort to date. If there is one thing he does do is to see his races out. Several came there with what looked like winning runs. Most notable was Carniolan, who was cruising on the inner but unable to raise his game inside the last furlong. Royalist still pulls much too hard, did too much early and was soon back-pedalling.

In the concluding handicap won by Judge ‘N Jury, Fantasy Explorer got no run but finished well on the heels of the leaders. It would be foolish to assume he will be roaring back to his old form, but this was his second decent effort in a row and in a less competitive grade – possibly on the Polytrack – he could be worth considering.

KEMPTON RESULTS

In what looked a keen maiden, Sayyaaf, the colt with form, lost a race he should have won courtesy of a poor ride from Richard Hills. Clear and home for all money a furlong out, somehow Hills allowed Mafaaz to run him down. Evasive was difficult at the start, well out of his ground two out, but finished full of running in third. These three were the ones that mattered. Tonight they failed to finish in the right order but in future it is entirely possible that the unraced colts will progress beyond the standard set by Sayyaaf, who, at the risk of repeating myself, had his chance sabotaged by a bad ride.

 TUESDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 9th:

LINGFIELD RESULTS

Definightly coped well with the soft turf ground to beat a modest bunch in the Median Auction Maiden. All we learned from this was that he can handle such conditions and is a lot better than those in opposition.

MY SWEET GEORGIA can be counted a slightly unfortunate loser in the Teenoso Nursery. Rated 74 after having chased home easy winner Gallagher at Chepstow, it can be argued that even with the possibility of a slight rise she remains well-treated. Closing on Count Paris fast, she was in front a few strides after the line. She did race on the favoured stands’ side but, being by Royal Applause and racing on such soft ground, she earned plenty of points after this effort. There should be a race with her name on it.

Once again, Purple Sage failed to impress with her attitude. Having taken the eye on her debut behind Snoqualmie girl at Newmarket when staying on, she has twice swished her tail and looked uncooperative since. However, this was not her track [run on the all-weather] as she failed to handle the turns. Her attitude may always be a concern but if accorded a reasonable mark it may not stop her winning a nursery. Seven seems her trip but she wants decent ground.

SUNDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 7th:

LONGCHAMP RESULTS

On a terrific day’s racing from the Parisian track, Spirito Del Venito just lost out in the Group 3, finding a penalty his undoing.

SOUL CITY is beginning to look like a two-year-old that ought to be taken seriously. This son of Elusive City seems to be raising his game as he goes along, this time adding a Group 3 to his tally. A winner of a Listed race last time, here he held on in the face of what looked like a challenge that was destined to succeed from Milanais, who had travelled like the winner for the majority of the journey. Having finished fourth in the Group 1 Prix Morny behind Bushranger and Gallagher when arguably being given too much to do, Milanais provided the benchmark.

GOLDIKOVA is another going from strength to strength and she and her fellow filly, Darjina, flew the flag for their sex and the home team when fighting out the finish of the Prix du Moulin. Of course, Goldikova represents Zarkava’s form and this was the highlight of a distinguished season for her. Darjina, looking tremendous as always, suffered her fifth defeat of the season at the highest level; but as usual gave it her all. The ground has conspired against her for much of the year, the trip beat her in Dubai and she was arguably unlucky at Royal Ascot. You have to feel for connections but she will make a wonderful broodmare. Paco Boy was another to cover himself in glory stepped up to Group 1 Company. He beat the colts over a trip that could have stretched his stamina. This was still a personal best and he may not have finished improving yet. A pop at something in America is on the cards. Sageburg and Henrythenavigator followed.

Henrythenavigator lost an unbeaten record for the season on ground probably a little to soft. His trainer had expressed doubts beforehand. Natagora was another to run as if she has lost her edge for the time being. It is a long season for those produced early for the Classics; something that seems to be showing in her case. It is equally possible we have seen the best of Henrythenavigator.

LEOPARDSTOWN RESULTS

The Bogberry seems a typical Hawk Wing, running his best races fresh. After his third in the Craven to Twice Over, he flopped in the Ulster Derby but came back in the Group 3 to foil odds-on favourite, Famous Name, who had been narrowly beaten in the Grand Prix de Paris.

Lush Lashes initiated a great day for trainer Jim Bolger and stallion Galileo when splashing through the soft ground to account for Nahoodh and Halfway To Heaven in a tight finish in the Group 1. She has proved herself a most versatile filly, having won on all ground and from eight to ten furlongs. She is top class.

New Approach provided the icing on the cake for the Bolger/Galileo connections when returning to winning form in the Irish Champion. Ground such as this blunts the speed of the best horses and although he was always going to win, the form shows he only beat a decent type like Traffic Guard half-a-length. Mores Wells, another fair yardstick without being a genuine Group 1 contender, finished third inches ahead of Multidimensional. This was not the best of Group 1’s but New Approach demonstrated he is no back number and demands respect at the highest level.

SATURDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 6th:

KEMPTON RESULTS

ELNAWIN followed up on his recent Newmarket success with a hard-fought win in the Group 3. Not the quickest from the gates, he moved well throughout on the heels of a fast pace but had to dig deep to secure a last stride victory. It was a three-way go with the winning rider losing his reins at a crucial stage. Elnawin is a tough cookie but this was a soft Group 3 to win and he may struggle at this level next year. Considering it was only his second run, Weatherstaff did well in third, whilst Khor Dubai, if given a chance by the handicapper, appeals as a likely nursery type.

The September Stakes may have taken place on the Polytrack but it attracted a strong field. Hattan created something of a shock. Although a proven all-weather performer, a 3lbs penalty threatened to make life difficult but he fought bravely to withhold a late lunge by Illustrious Blue. Eye-catcher was Mourilyan, who has mixed it with decent types in Dubai and Hong Kong. Apparently, just in need of this, he stayed on strongly to snatch third. The plan is to travel to either Canada for the Woodbine or Australia for the Melbourne Cup. Many Volumes was run out of the minor spot in fourth whilst, not for the first time, Lion Sands and Galactic Star failed to make much of an impact.

Premio Loco took what seemed like a competitive Class 2 Handicap apart in the London Mile. Backed down to what looked like an unrealistic price, he proved punters right by showing a smart turn of foot. Having beaten the useful Rose Street last time and claiming winner Hilbre Court, he went into this with a mixed profile. There is nothing mixed about it now! Of the rest, Cape Hawk ran to form, Formation flashed his tail, Totally Focussed did well after a messy start to finish fifth and, on this track, which his record indicates he likes, is worth a second look next time.

Ashram, a convincing winner on his debut at Newmarket when coming from a mile back, looked buzzed up today in the Class 3 Conditions Stakes. Awkward on the turns, he took a tug early and was always doing too much. Taken off a true line by Captain Ramius, he did come back late but it was my reading that he went from looking beaten to coming back for more once the incident occurred. Such rough-house tactics were repeated inside the last furlong when, once again, heading between horses Ashram was galvanised into picking up his bit. He failed to get the result in the room, which frankly seems about right. Captain Ramius displayed plenty of improvement to lift this. Newcomer, Sir Al, flashed home late for third, whilst Standpoint, who has a real soft ground action, surely needs the kind of ground that caused Haydock’s abandonment to be at his most effective.

Ethaara deserves plenty of credit for winning the Class 4 Handicap. Locked away on the inside off a slow pace, she picked up to steamroll her way to victory, getting her rider out of trouble in the process. Winning from 77 today, she appeals as a horse considerably better than the amount she is likely to be raised. Opus Maximus was shuffled back early and did enough late work to give encouragement for next time at a similar level.

FRIDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 5th:

LINGFIELD RESULTS

Diriculous made a bold attempt to defy a 6lbs penalty in the Class 3 but his trainer’s misgivings about the faster Lingfield surface and the quick reappearance proved well-founded. Closing rapidly, the line came a few strides too soon for this son of Diktat who was beaten only three-parts of a length by Benllech. A revised mark will make it tough for Diriculous, but he has an admirable attitude that is sure to help him win more races in the winter when the pickings are easier.

KEMPTON RESULTS

ADORN was impressive in victory in the Maiden Fillies’ Stakes. By Kyllachy, she has plenty of pace and travels smoothly in her slower paces. She is useful at least.

THURSDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 4th:

SALISBURY RESULTS

Bouvardia’s defeat in the first division of the maiden was costly to the odds-on players. She travelled well throughout but in a tight finish was worried out of it by Fanditha. The pair finished clear of the promising Dunlop-duo, Fallen In Love andAl Tamooh, both of whom will have their day.

There was a lot to like about the victory of CITYSCAPE in the Class 4 Novice Stakes who has the size and scope to continue on the upward spiral. Still green and on and off the bridle early, he gradually warmed to his task. A big, striking lump of a horse, he looks essentially a galloper. He was able to grind his opposition into submission without too much effort. He has a soft ground action that, being by Selkirk, is not surprising so this ground would be as firm as he wants. The runner-up [beaten nine lengths], Such Optimism, is by Sakhee so it is reasonable to expect her to be seen to greater effect when the ground rides firmer. Even so, Cityscape did beat her readily and she does not look in his class.

SERIOUS ATTITUDE should not be overlooked in some of the better events before the end of the season. Having bolted up in a Windsor maiden, she repeated the dose in better company when winning the Listed Fillies’ Stakes with equal authority. By Mtoto, she looks to have inherited plenty of speed.

On a day of striking performances by juveniles, INTENSE added to the score when stepping up considerably on her debut at Goodwood. Although a perfectly respectable runner-up there, she has clearly done well since and, backed accordingly, was another to impress. This was the second division of the fillies’ maiden. The time equated to that posted by Fanditha in the first but, whereas the first winner there was all-out, Intense seemed to have something in hand.

Regal Flush got back on an overdue winning path in the Class 2 Conditions Stakes. This was a major step down for a colt that has failed to build on his excellent effort in last year’s St Leger. He beat some reluctant and back numbers with ease so it remains to be seen what this form is worth.

WARWICK RESULTS

Rabbit Fighter is a tricky customer with a trip that is hard to define. With the ground and draw in his favour, he was backed to win the Class 4 over six furlongs but although staying on, could never get to grips with the leaders. This was not a bad effort but one cannot help but conclude that when he does win we can afford to cheer. Lucayos looks in fair form at present but this soft ground was his undoing. A return to Polytrack should be to his advantage.

The well-backed Squad could never land a blow in the maiden. He should win something, perhaps a nursery, but he looks moderate.

There is a small event to be won with MARIE TEMPEST who, despite a rough passage, ran well enough in the Class 6 Handicap at Great Leighs.

 TUESDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 2nd:

GOODWOOD RESULTS

A card on a rain-soaked day, decimated by non-runners. Its worth is dubious but those to mention include Equinine, a slightly unlucky loser of the maiden after being bumped at the start and running out of gas close home when striking the front. He looked the winner a furlong out but earlier exertions took their toll.

Express Wish won a weak Group 3 from Welsh Emperor, who had his conditions but produced only a token effort. Beaver Patrol continues to be a credit to all concerned with him. Having been on the go since appearing in Dubai in February, he shows no sign of losing his edge. Seven furlongs on ground this soft was too much but he still ran his heart out to finish third. Molville finally shed his maiden tag and looks a likely hurdler. Heroes threw away another handicap in a tight finish, proving once again that he is not one to rely on.

SOUTHWELL RESULTS

CRYING ALOUD handles this track extremely well, winning the Class 4 Handicap from a mark of 80. By dirt sire, Street Cry, she is a fine example of his stock and merits the utmost respect when returning to this course – something she will doubtless do over the coming months.

MONDAY RACING RESULTS SEPTEMBER 1st:

KEMPTON RESULTS

Olympic City seems worth a mention after a promising third in the Class 3 Handicap. Finishing strongly behind Bahar Shamaal and King’s Event, this was not a bad field and his excellent trainer, Mike de Kock, ought to be able to place him to advantage in the near future.

Fen Spirit was all the rage for the maiden fillies’ stakes until she took a fierce tug on the way to the start. Having finished fourth to Snoqualmie Girl at Newmarket, the form was there but closer inspection revealed she is a lightly framed and somewhat plain filly. By Invincible Spirit she may not have stayed. A small nursery over six may be her level.

Having won the preceding division of the maiden with Simple Solution, Barry Hills followed up with High Heeled. Both had obvious claims and did their jobs nicely, but neither was exceeding them self by winning.

Meshtri and Checklow both flopped in the competitive Class 3 handicap won by outsider, Starfala. There seems little in the way of an excuse to advance for Checklow who has gone backwards. Meshtri was hampered at a crucial stage but it was already looking as if a place was the best that could be achieved. Judging him literally on this may be harsh, although a mark of 89 seems high enough all the same.

LINGFIELD RESULTS

Immam has regressed since his first run. The Solario franked his form but it came down to earth with a bump in the maiden run on turf. His head carriage leaves something to be desired. He may be let in lightly in a nursery as a result of this and should not be written off. Aurorian, another winner for the Hannon stable, stayed on resolutely.

Sans Frontieres created a favourable impression when winning the Class 5 Maiden. A son of Galileo, he looked very green and only picked up when asked to race between rivals. He looks the sort to progress and could turn out to be decent.