Gallop Gossip

Everyone at the stables, Tony and Family, and myself would like to wish everyone a happy and winning new year.

If you wish to see previous year/s news they are still available. Just click the appropriate button at the top of the webpage.

For those of you who like statistics a few for you. Last year Tony had 45 winners and 112 places. Stabling 49 horses on average. That's a strike rate of 7.2% anyone 'in the know' will tell you that's not bad at all. Tony Carroll will just say we can do better.

What a good start to 2009! A winner.

Dear old Jake The Snake ran in the 16.40 at Kempton on Saturday, a claiming Stakes (Class 6) (4YO plus) Winner £2,047 - 4 ran, with Amy Baker aboard. Jake kept mostly to the rear at the start of the race. Then as he got towards the two furlong marker began to make a move on the leaders. Soon after that he was in the lead and it felt like he was in for a win, and indeed he was. Crossing the finishing line with a little to spare. A good race.

Lets hope it's a sample of things to come. As they say watch this space!
.

What a great day for everyone yesterday. A double!

One of the two winners of the day was Ceoperk with Wayne Hutchinson aboard. Not a horse I am familiar with but she was making her debut chase run in the 3:50 at HEREFORD, Mares´ Beginners´ Chase (Class 4) (5yo+) 2m Soft 12 fences. What can one say? After clearing the fourth from home she began to take control of the race and by the next fence the race, if she cleared the fences safely, was hers. And it proved to be the case. She just got faster and faster, left the others well behind. So far behind I expect the jockey, Wayne, had time to pop home for a cup of tea whilst he waited for the others to come in. A 16 length win. Will be interesting to see what the handicapper does. But what a way to start your chasing career! Well done Ceoperk & Wayne Hutchinson.

The one I should have gone to watch was one of my favourite horses. Kinkeel who ran last week at Ludlow and was running again yesterday. Against horse's rated 77 to 85 to his 66, on paper at least, he would have his work cut out for him. There were 16 in the race, 1:20 HEREFORD Handicap Chase (Class 5) (0-85, 5yo+) 2m3f Soft 14 fences. With Eamon Dehdashti riding. Some races you watch you can say they were lucky to win that etc but Kinkeel deserved to win this race. By no means did he have it all his own way. Instead of his usual dash ahead and hope the others don't catch up tactics he stayed with the pack the majority of the way then at 3rd from last two horses broke clear. Tarus, ridden by Nick Scholfield, and Kinkeel simply left the pack behind. It was then just a two horse race. Six horses pulled up, perhaps because it looked like they had no chance of catching these two? Leaving the others out of sight they jockeyed each other for first position but Kinkeel crossed the line in style to bring a well fought, well deserved win. With Kinkeel it is much of a mind exercise as a physical one. He had a jockey on him that knew when to push him, and just as important when not to. He likes the softer ground. The new distance seems to suit him and he had a lady looking after him before the race. All these factors led to a convincing win and I shall be paying him a visit to give him, and Ceoperk, their winning polo's. (actually Kinkeel prefers carrots if you go to see him).

So well done everyone. Isn't this what its all about?

One last thing I must mention. My thanks to Mr Ian Johnson for the new background photo. The horse is called Gouranga.

Another win today! Dansilver running in the 15:30 at Wolverhampton (A.W.), 2m 119y Handicap (Div 2) (Class 6) (4YO plus) - 10 ran. The horses set off at a good pace and one circuit around there was nothing in it. At the final bend approaching the home straight Dansilver lay in about 4th place, but was positioned in the clear on the outside. At this point the leader was some four lengths in front and was going for the finish. But with less than a furlong to go Dansiver, with Luke Morris aboard, took up the challenge and went for it. They quickly covered the gap and soon overtook the leader crossing the finish line some way in front. Looking like he was enjoying himself and plenty left in the tank. He actually made it look almost effortless. A good race.

Racing post had this to say
"It looked for a long time as though Pseudonym would benefit from an enterprising ride from Fergus Sweeney as, after racing handily throughout, he made a bid for glory when taking over from the long-time leader Kangrina over 5f from home and it wasn't long before he had established a big advantage. He looked to have the race in the bag roundingthe home bend as his nearest rivals were all under pressure, but he then started to feel the pinch and by the time he had reached the furlong pole he was running on fumes. DANSILVER, a winner over a similar trip on turf and over hurdles, was stepping back up in distance after a couple of decent efforts over 1m4f and he relished it. He looked to have plenty to do starting the home bend, but he got stronger as the race progressed and after he had collared the clear leader a furlong out he then foundplenty to hold off the runner-up. He should remain competitive in races like this even after being reassessed."

We had a good weekend of racing. A second place for Bold Diva and a third for Kestrel Cross. More about those in a moment. The one winner we had was Arctic Wings. Running in the 14:30 Doncaster on 31 Jan a 2m 3f 110y Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) (4YO plus) - 14 ran Good to Soft ground. Arctic Wings, Wayne Hutchinson the Jockey, rode a really competative race. Coming around the final bend he put in a challenge and made his way through the pack. Another horse, Calatagan, was on Arctic's heels and Arctic had to really push to keep first position. The pressure was really on but Arctic Wings responded to Waynes urging and found that little extra that makes a winner and crossed the line in first place.
Racing Post "An open-looking handicap hurdle that produced a good finish with ARCTIC WINGS holding off Calatagan. Arctic Wings has been slightly in-and-out since winning at Newbury 11 months ago but travelled well, moved easily into contention and battled on all the way to the line. His trainer is hoping he gets into the new conditional jockeys' handicap hurdle at Cheltenham"

Bold Diva ran on Saturday January 31 in the 13.10 at Lingfield. A Apprentice Handicap, 9 ran. Going Standard. Amy Baker the Jockey. Towards the end of the race Diva was held up, Amy moved Bold Diva to the rail hoping a gap would appear and when it did Amy took advantage of it. Alas there was too much ground to make up and had not the time to catch the leader. Non the less a good effort by Amy & Bold Diva. Racing Post had this to say "Bold Diva was short of room at the top of the straight, but she was in the clear for long enough if good enough. She made her move towards the inside rail, which is not always the best place to be at Lingfield, and was well held by the winner."

Kestral Cross Saturday January 31 the 16:25 at Lingfield a 4yo plus, 1m 2f, Class 4, 9 ran Going Standard. Luke Morris riding. Held up in the rear at the start Kestral Cross was part of a pack of four heading towards the finish line. Once he had got up to third position there was no time or room to improve his position. All the four horses crossed the line together with less than a length between himself and the winner. A creditable effort by Kestral Cross who is no doubt improving all the time.

Sorry no quick report on Can Can Stars win, I have been rather snowed under with work lately I am sure you know what I mean.

Can Can Star, Luke Morris riding.13:30 at Lingfield on Feb 4th. A Handicap (Class 5) (4YO plus). Luke kept Can Can Star to the outside. Further to run but at least they were free of the pack. They kept roughly midfield until coming around the final bend. Luke urged Can Can Star on and began to over take the field one by one as they faded. Then it was down to Can Can Star to overtake the leading horse and he did, by a whisker. So its yet another win down to Can Can Star. So thats six wins, six second places and five thirds so far for Can Can Star. Four of those wins down to Lingfield. Horses for courses as they say.

At the races had this comment about Can Can Star's race "held up towards rear, wide and headway 4f out, chased leader approaching final furlong, stayed on to lead post" and the Racing Post comments : "CAN CAN STAR is the type that needs to be brought with a late challenge and, while he does not always get the breaks, when things fall right he tends not to win by far and therefore remainsfairly handicapped. He took his record over this course and distance to four wins from five starts with a well-timed run down the outside."

A double win for the yard on Monday February 9. The first win was Red Rudy in the 16.25 at Kempton. A Handicap, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 6, 5 ran, Going: Standard. With Jockey Adam Kirby they let the others set the pace and kept onto the heels of the leaders. At the finish line they snatched victory. A good tactical run by man and horse. Racing Post " RED RUDY, who has won from a 3lb higher mark in the past, found things falling just right and, after keeping tabs on the leaders, in the end he did enough. He doesn't always find a lot under pressure and thiswas one of his good days." At The Races "in touch, chased leader over 1f out, led inside final furlong, stayed on" Finally The Sporting Life "in touch, chased leader over 1f out, led inside final furlong, stayed on opened 11/1 touched 11/1 "

The next winner was Jessica Wigmo in the 17:00 at Kempton a Handicap, 4yo plus, 6f, Class 6, 8 ran, Going was Standard. Jessica, ridden by T Dean, was held up at the rear of runners and did not, or rather could not, make a move until 2 furlongs from the finish. Then with skill Jessica Wigmo switched left and overtook the others at one furlong out to lead all the way to the finish. Sporting life said " in rear, headway and not clear run 2f out, soon switched left, ridden to lead entering final furlong, ran on opened 8/1 touched 10/1 " At The Races quote "in rear, headway and not clear run 2f out, soon switched left, ridden to lead entering final furlong, ran on" and finally the Racing Post "JESSICA WIGMO, whose last win was from a 14lb higher mark over 7f here last April, was dropping back to six for the first time for a long time. Left short of room when trying to improve on the inner early in the straight, she showed a nice turn of foot to strike the front and was right on top at the line. She might well follow up."

Fantastic days racing yesterday. Another double. The first one was Lytham in the 2:05 at KEMPTON (AW) a Handicap(Class 6) (0-55, 4yo+) 1m2f. Vince Slattery riding. Held back until the one furlong marker Lytham came wide and began to race past the other contenders. You could feel this horses enthusiasm. Lytham was as determined as Vince Slattery to cross the finish line first and win they did. That's twice out for Tony and two wins. Racing Post "LYTHAM advertised his current well being with a ready effort and backed up his win atthe course over slightly further last month despite being 6lb higher. Given time to find his stride, he had to come wide into the home straight with his challenge and displayed a very willing attitude from the furlong pole. Another likely rise up the handicap will make things harder, but he is now two from two for current connections so further improvement is not ruled out just yet."

Next was Jake The Snake. He ran in the 2.35 at Kempton a 3yo plus, 7f, Class 6. 5 ran Going: Standard. Giving us a worrying start by dipping as the gate opened. The Jockey, Amy Baker, kept on his back. Leaving the stalls and taking position in the middle of the crowd of horses. Going at a steady pace. Amy & Jake keeping up. Then at the one furlong marker they began to overtake. Soon they were in view of the finish line and in the lead. The others tried to catch them but Jake The Snake & Amy were having none of it and flashed across the finish line to a thrilling win. Well done Jake The Snake and Amy Baker. At The Races "stumbled start, held up last but in touch, headway on outside 2f out, closed on leading pair over 1f out, ran on to lead final 50 yards" Racing Post "Not a bad little claimer. JAKE THE SNAKE made a very tardy start, but he came from last to first when winning on his debut in this class at this venue last time and eventually followed up without needing to be at his best. He took time to pick up when pulled out with his effort, but that was mainly due to the modest early pace over this sharper test and his claiming rider - who has now won two from three aboard him - did not have to get too serious inside the final furlong. There are certainly more of these to be won with him while he remains in such form."

For those of you who like the stats a few for you. Obviously only current up to this morning, 12 Feb. So far in 2009. The stable has enjoyed 9 wins 2 seconds 7 thirds 7 fourths. A win rate of 16%. Totaling 26 positions out of 58 runs. You do not need a calculator to work out how well things are going (touch wood, plastic, next door neighbour etc)

A nice race yesterday, another win. 13:25 Southwell (A.W.), 20 Feb 1mile Claiming Stakes (Class 6) (4YO plus) 6 ran. North Parade ridden by Shane Kelly. Shane kept North Parade to outside and away from the rest packed against the rail and flowed with them until they challenged coming out of the final bend. For a short while it was a two horse race but North Parade surged and won by one and a half lengths. A smooth ride, a good race.

At The Races said "held up, headway halfway, ridden to lead over 1f, kept on final furlong"
Sporting life "held up, headway halfway, ridden to lead over 1f, kept on final furlong opened 8/1 touched 9/1 "
Racing Post "NORTH PARADE, formerly a useful middle-distance handicapper for Brian Meehan, has looked an awkward ride in the past but he travelled extremely well here and was still on the bridle when produced with his effort..... he kept responding to pressure and his stamina saw him home in front. "

Another exciting days racing. First of all congratulations to go to Lytham. Lytham, ridden by Tony Atkinson, went in the 6:50 KEMPTON (AW) "Hands And Heels" Apprentice Handicap(Class 6) (0-55, 4yo+) 1m3f Standard. They lay about fourth coming up to the final furlong marker. Urged on by Tony-A Lytham gathered pace and easily won by a good two lengths. This is a great hat-trick for Lytham. Three times out for Tony Carroll and three wins. Racing Post "LYTHAM readily completed a hat-trick of course victories off a mark only 2lb higher than when successful last time and is now 3 for 3 since joining Tony Carroll. He's declared to run at Wolverhampton on Friday, but will have a 6lb penalty as that is another apprentice contest." At The Races said "mid-division, smooth headway to lead over 1f out, clear inside final furlong, pushed out, comfortably"

Also running today was Jake The Snake. 7:50 KEMPTON (AW) Claiming Stakes(Class 6) (3yo+) 7f Standard. The gates opened to start the race and to be honest I don't know what happened to Jake. He almost knelt and his head went down and forward. The jockey, Amy Baker, did well to stay on. But stay on she did and they left the gate with a lot of work to do. Some eight to ten lengths behind the pack. But give the pair their due they did not give up and belted out after the rest. They just missed getting second and they came in third. But given the severely bad start they did extremely well and credit given where its due for the effort put in by horse and rider. The Racing Post said "A small field, but a decent claimer. Although it's hard to be sure, Jake The Snake probably would have won had he not lost around eight lengths when ducking as the stalls opened. It's true a modest pace allowed him to make up some ground before the straight, but he still did a lot of racing to get into contention, before his effort understandably flattened out inside the final furlong." At The Races "put head down as stalls opened and awkward leaving stalls, adrift in last, headway 2f out, stayed on to take 3rd final furlong"
Personally I have to agree with the Racing commentators I think if it where not for the bad start Jake could easily have won.

Gouranga certainly lived upto her name, which means happiness, today when she ran in the 2:20 at FAKENHAM. The West Norfolk Foxhounds Mares´ Maiden Hurdle(Class 4) (4yo+) (2m7f110y) a long race and Mattie Batchelor kept Gouranga in touch with the leaders the whole way around the course. She dropped a place a of couple of times on the jumps but always came back. Coming around the final bend she took the lead, then lost it again a few strides later. Heading down the final furlong it was three horse race with each horse see-sawing for the first position. Then with less than half a furlong to go Mattie pushed Gouranga and she got in front. In this position and the finish line in sight she was not going to let anyone pass her and she stormed across the line to win. Well done Mattie and Gouranga.
Will put up the RP comments etc when they are posted later.

Jake The Snake ran on Monday March 2 at Lingfield in the 15:40 4yo plus, 1m, Class 6, 5 ran, Going: Standard.
If you remember last time Jake ran he frightened us at the start by dipping low as the gates opened. The current theory is that he is so keen to get out of the gates when the commentator says "all in" then that's it, lets go! Jake tried to get under the gates to get on with the race! So this time Jake was held back until last to load. He was in a few seconds and the gates sprung open and off they went. Ridden by Amy Baker(5) the pair were soon off and riding smoothly. It appeared no great strain for either jockey or horse. Of course Jake wanted to be off but Amy managed to control his enthusiasm until they had rounded the final bend. Jake The Snake and Amy were quickly in front and stayed there until they crossed the finish line. An intelligent, smooth ride. Well done Jake the Snake and Amy Baker.
Sporting Life "in touch, effort on inside entering final 2f, soon led, ran on"
At the Races "in touch, effort on inside entering final 2f, soon led, ran on" (No it's not a mistake, each printed the same comment)
Racing Post "JAKE THE SNAKE resumed winning ways under a well-judged ride and comfortably reversed course-and-distance form with the third. He was smarter from the gates this time, something that has hampered his chance the last twice, and he found what was required when asked to win the race off the home turn. Versatile regards trip, it was his third win from five outings in this class this year and there is little reason why he cannot go in again"

Not a bad weeks racing. On Wednesday we had King Olaf with Luke Morris aboard. Running in the 20:20 from Kempton. A 4yo plus, 1m 3f, Class 2. 9 runnners with Standard Going. Luke and King Olaf put up a very spirited run. Luke kept King Olaf just behind the leaders keeping up quite a pace. However that little bit extra did not come at the finish line and King Olaf landed a very creditable second. A nice horse. Sporting Life said "chased leader, hard ridden 2f out, went 2nd inside final furlong, no chance with winner" At the Races said "chased leader, hard ridden 2f out, went 2nd inside final furlong, no chance with winner" Is it me or are the ATR comments and Sporting Life comments written by the same person? Meanwhile the Racing Post said "King Olav, who began his career at the same stable as the winner, had bounced back to form with a ready success at Lingfield last time and had been upped 2lb. He had the run of the race, but this confirms he is in decent heart again"

Earlier in the day we had another second. North Parade, Southwell 13:55, 4yo plus, 1m 3f, Class 6, 8 ran Going Standard. Jockey Shane Kelly A very calm Jockey who seems to bring out the best in a horse. Held up at the rear at the start of the race North Parade had a lot of ground to make up. In the final two furlongs it looked like we were going to have a winner. Shane Kelly took North Parade wide to clear the main pack. Passing all but the leader. The leading horse kept up one fast pace and so did North parade. Neither horse slowing or picking up. Both just going flat out. There was no way North Parade could have passed the leader and came in second. This horse has progressed lots and I have no doubt even better things are to come. Racing Post "North Parade, successful in a similar event over 1m here two starts ago, does stay this longer trip. Held up out the back early, he made his ground steadily and looked a big danger on the wide outside entering the last 2f, but he put his head up and refused to exert himself until the race was over." Sporting Life "held up, towards rear, headway on outer 3f out, effort when hung left over 1f out, kept on final furlong opened 9/2 touched 5/1"

Aldiruos brings true meaning to the saying "horses for courses" it certainly rings true with Aldiruos. Having won three times at Weatherby already Aldiruos brought home yet another win today, Saturday, at Weatherby. Running in the 2:20 a Class 3 Handicap Hurdle a 0-125, 4yo+ over 2m4f going good, 11 hurdles. Ridden by Wayne Hutchinson,( a winner yesterday at Cheltenham) Aldiruos started off in the middle towards the rear. I must confess that from the comfort of my armchair it looked like Wayne had got it wrong. Hemmed in from all sides and no real way forward. Wayne kept his cool and as the opportunities presented themselves Aldiruos moved up. After coming around the final bend the horses in front began to tire. Wayne steered Aldirous through them and soon it was a two horse race. Aldiruos quickend. Cleared the last jump cleanly and got his head in front and kept it there until they stormed over the finish line. Racing Post "ALDIRUOS, who had won three times here, has slipped in the ratings and is suited by fast ground. He went stride for stride with the runner-up, put in the cleaner jump at the last and scored in tidy fashion. He should continue to give a good account of himself with the ground in his favour.

Last but not least some other good news. On my way down to do my weekly polo/carrot distribution I saw a fimiliar face coming up the other way. Mark Coombe. Yes Mark is back. For those of you new to Gallop Gossip Mark is one of the stable jockeys' who had a particually nasty fall last year. Through no fault of his own Mark did serious damage to his back and has taken months to recover. Having spoken to Mark he is hoping his consultant will give him the all clear to put his racing career back on track, (no pun intended) So I am sure we all wish him well. Good to see you back Mark.

Well what a good race yesterday, Wednesday. Gouranga ran in the16:35 at Warwick. A Mares' Handicap Hurdle, 4yo plus, 2m 5f, class 4. 15 ran. Going good, good to soft in places. The commentators hardly mentioned Gouranga before the race. Racing at bottom weight. Sp Odds 14/1. In theory out classed by the rest of the horses in the race. The race started off at a steady pace with Gouranga, ridden by Mattie Batchelor holding around two thirds back, outside of the field. Mattie sat there until 3 from home then moved Gouranga up slowly. After clearing the last from home the pair lay third. But the two horses in front began to fade and Gouranga actually increased her speed slightly. Steered a straight course for the winning post. Rapidly Gouranga overtook the leaders and crossed the finish line with ease. Leaving the horse trailing in second by 5 lengths.

Sporting Life said " mid-division on outside, progress 6th, went 2nd last, led flat, ran on well "
Racing Post "GOURANGA, who has been beaten in sellers, won a moderate mares maiden last time after trying plenty of times for a first success, so it was hardly surprising that she went off relatively unfancied. Held up early, she stayed on much straighter than the runner-up after the last hurdle to win in good style. Seemingly the penny has now dropped for her and the hat-trick may not be out of the question."
Editors footnote. The background picture you see on Gallop Gossip is Gouranga and Mattie.

Another interesting week. Gouranga's win then four thirds on Thursday. One each from Red Rudy, Lytham, Jake The Snake and Can Can Star. Yesterday we had two seconds. One each from Sofinella and Affermatively. All the horses have put in good runs. So to recap. A first, four thirds, then two seconds. At least we are heading in the right direction!

I went down the Gallops yesterday and it was a real pleasure. The sun was shining, the air warm with a real hint of spring. Trees starting into bud. Horses were let out into the paddocks to enjoy warmth on their backs. It was a great treat to all watching to see them chase around, roll on their backs in the fresh spring grass then get up and buck and kick in glee at being let loose in the sunshine. I got out my camera and the result you now see on the ‘Office’ page. There is a nice music clip with it so turn on your speakers and relax with it. I hope you enjoy it.

Jake The Snake has done it again. Last Thursday, April 2, Jake ran in the 6.25 at Kempton. Claiming Stakes 4yo plus, 1m, Class 6, 6 ran. Going: Standard. Well I knew Jake was good but talk about showing off. Jake took his time coming out of the stalls, almost saying to the other horses 'you go on and I will catch up'. He must have let them get ahead by at least 6 or more lengths before departing the gates. Luckily the jockey, Amy Baker, did not panic and push Jake the Snake to hard to make up the distance. Just moving at a steady pace. Nibbling away at the competition one horse at a time. By 2f from home Jake and Amy were up with the leaders. With a few strides to go the other horses started to slow down whilst Jake went up a gear and charged across the finish line like it was the most natural thing in the world. A thrilling race but Jake please stop giving us frighteners at the start! Well done Jake the Snake and Amy Baker.

Sporting Life "started very slowly and lost several lengths, in rear, headway and behind main group halfway, headway over 2f out, stayed on steadily to lead inside final furlong, asserted near finish opened 3/1 touched 10/3 £6000-£2000 (x2) "

At The Races quoted almost word for word as above.

Racing Post "JAKE THE SNAKE had a bit to find on official ratings, and he forfeited at least six lengths as the stalls opened, but the steady gallop enabled him to make up the deficit without expending too much energy. He again showed a good attitude, and ran up to his best, but the tendency to break slowly is becoming a worry."

First of all sorry there have been no updates in a little while. Good excuse honest, involves a Volkeswagon, a BMW and a vicar. I shall not explain, I am sure your imagination will give you a much better story.

So I have not been up to the stables in a little while, see above, so the horses were obviously suffering from polo widthdrawal symptoms. Last Thursday, the 16th, I got up at 6am and joined the staff as they arrived for work duly distributing polo's and carrots together with a few words of encouragement. Looks like it worked!

Friday April 17, Kempton 20:15, 4yo plus, 7f, Class 5, 14 ran. Going: Standard. Grey Boy put in a good effort and when the opportunity presented itself Grey Boy, ridden by Shane Kelly, took the lead from just over a furlong out. Kept there until he stormed across the finish line. Thats more like it. Well done Grey Boy and Shane Kelly. The same Day good old Kinkeel ran at Cheltenham (even the tv presenters have started to call him 'good old Kinkeel') he came in fourth in a race where he was supposedly outclassed by all the others. It was a class 2 race. He gave them a good run for their money, especially when you appreciate that this was his third run in under a week. He beat a horse that according to the odds was twice as good as he. Kinkeel got an extra carrot on Thursday.

Then the horse that encouraged me to start tapping the keyboard today. Eforetta. 3:40 Southwell a handicap,(Class 6) (0-65, 4yo+) 2m Going: Standard. Ridden by Liam Jones. Much of the race Liam kept Eforetta just going with flow until about one and a half furlongs out when, sitting on the outside, made all for the line and won convincingly by 2 or 3 lengths. Don't you just love it when a plan comes together?

Tudor Prince ran and won last night, Wednesday April 22 Kempton 21:20 -, 4yo plus, 6f, Class 5, 11 ran. Going: Standard. Nothing very exciting happened until Tudor Prince, ridden by T Dean, reached the two furlong marker when they made their move. Overtaking the leaders to lead in the final furlong and making all until they crossed the finish line. A great win.
Sporting Life " raced in 3rd and off the pace, closed over 2f out, ridden to lead inside final furlong, driven out opened 13/2 touched 6/1 "

Mark Coumbe came in fourth on Everyman yesterday. He was riding at Kempton in the18:50 4yo plus, 1m 4f, Class 6, 13 ran. Held up at the rear at the start he had a lot of catching up to do but after a great deal of effort he got 4th place out of 13. Sporting life said "held up in rear, headway over 2f out, stayed on under pressure inside final furlong "

Another winner Monday, 4th May. The 17:00 at Kempton (A.W.) a Handicap (Class 5) (4YO plus) race with the going Standard. 7 ran. For the majority of the race there was nothing really in it. Eforetta was held up in about 5th or 6th place. Then, slowly but surely, Shaun Kelly urged Eforetta on and they picked off the leaders one by one until they just passed the one furlong marker and took the lead. With nothing in front of them Eforetta made all and surged across the finish line to bring home first place. A thrilling race to watch and everyone delighted with the win.

I feel I should also mention King Olav, 2nd May at Goodwood. Ridden by Seb Sanders who put in a valiant effort. Leading almost all the way around only to get pipped at the post and bring home a second.

Then there is Bold Diva. 1st May 16:50 at Southwell. 4yo plus, 7f, Class 6, 12 ran. Going: Standard. Ridden by T Dean, after being held up at the start with a lot of effort eventually took the lead at the two furlong marker but was overtaken in the last seconds, by the 11/4 favourite, and brought home second place. Bold Diva a lovely little (well not so little) horse. So close.

Crazy Bold. I must confess, I do not know this horse. So he must be a relative newcomer to the yard. I did my polo/carrot rounds on Monday so he must be a quick learner. This horse started out at 40/1. Isn't hindsight wonderful? Running in the 17:55 Ludlow, 14 May. A Novices' Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) (4YO plus). 13 ran. Ridden by W Hutchinson. Crazy Bold did not make much of an impression on the leaders at the start. Held in mid position for most of the race and made the move to first around 3 furlongs. After this a combination of the horse speeding up slightly and others slowing down Crazy Bold increased the gap and made it look easy. Some 9 (no it isn't a typo error) lengths in front. Obviously one to watch next time out. Another good win for the yard and the delighted owners.

Sporting Life commented "mid-division, hampered 1st, headway after 6th,led 3 out, clear approaching last, easily opened 40/1"

At The Races "mid-division, hampered 1st, headway after 6th,led 3 out, clear approaching last, easily"

A footnote. I am off to Ireland until next week so no more Gallop Gossip updates until I return.

Just got back from my brief holiday in Ireland, my thank's to the McCann family who made us feel really welcome.

Good thing we came back because the first race we watched was the Wetherby Hurdle with Crazy Bold on Thursday May 21 2009 Wetherby 15:45 a Handicap Hurdle. 4yo plus, 2m 110y, Class 4. 7 ran Going: Good to Soft (Home Straight Good plc Back Straight Soft plc) and to our delight Crazy Bold won again. The race was almost a carbon copy of the race on May 15th (see below). Obviously Wayne Hutchinson, the jockey, thought the tactics won last time so stick to what works and it did! I could have just copied and pasted the running from the race below! Although there was one heartstopping moment when Crazy Bold hit the last hurdle and put him off stride for a short while. But he still went on to a great win leaving the second horse trailing some 1.5 lengths behind. No doubt the handicapper will be doing some adjustments now but as I said previously still one to watch!

Sporting Life said "held up in touch, ridden to lead 2 out where blundered, driven out from last opened 6/4 touched 7/4"

Racing Post "CRAZY BOLD, an easy winner in lesser company at Ludlow on his first start over hurdles for Tony Carroll, was in effect just 4lb higher. Raised 20lb for that success, he travelled strongly and after going ahead two out had it in the bag when fluffing his lines at the last. Kept up to his work, he will obviously have a lot more on his plate when he reappears."

On another subject for those of you who read Gallop Gossip and would like more involvement a new syndicate has started up. Take a look at the Sales page of this website.

First of all my thanks to Ian Johnson for the photo of Mr Fluffy in the final stages of his race at Uttoxeter. It really capture's the race. Mr. Fluffy is the one on the outside with Tom Messenger in the white cap.

What a nice couple of results today. Two winners!

The first winner was Share Option ridden by the yards jockey Lee Edwards. They were riding in the 3.50 at Uttoxeter. A Conditional Jockeys´ Selling Hurdle, (Class 5) 3m Good 14 hdles . Obviously a long race but coming into the final bend Lee & Share Option took the lead. From here on it was basically all over because no horse even threatend to overtake them. They galloped across the finish line some five lengths in front of their nearest rival. A definative win. One that no doubt the connections and Lee will remember for a long time. The Racing Post said "The waited-with SHARE OPTION travelled well throughout the contest, and got to the head of the field turning in with the minimum of effort. Nothing ever looked likely to land a blow after he sped clear two out, and he was value for twice the winning verdict. Connections were pushed to 6,800gnsto retain him"
Sporting Life " held up in last, raced keenly, headway after 9th, led on bit after 3 out, clear 2 out, heavily eased towards finish opened 8/1 £2100-£300"

Then in the 5pm race from Uttoxeter was good old Mr Fluffy. A Handicap Chase (Class 4) (0-110, 5yo+) 3m Good 18 fences. For the majority of the race Mr Fluffy, ridden by Tom Messenger, kept to the outside of the pack. Staying in 4th postition. It was in that postion they stayed in until they were in the home straight. Mr. Fluffy had his ears pricked and he was loving it. He was in front and winning and he knew it. They crossed the line as though it was the most natural thing in the world. He won by 15 lengths! It's good to have Mr. Fluffy back in the yard.
Racing post. "MR FLUFFY hadn´t taken to point-to-pointing at all, even allowing for the poor form this year of Fred Hutsby, his trainer in that sphere; and his first run back with Tony Carroll last time didn´t offer any greater encouragement, either. He showed a lot more of his old sparkle here, albeit off a mark 38lb below his last winning one over fences. There are no hard and fast plans for him."
Sporting Life "tracked leaders, led 10th, clear 3 out, kept on well opened 25/1 touched 20/1"

At last! A winner. Windsor,15 Jun 2009, 6:00. Handicap (Class 5) (0-75, 4yo+) (1m67y) 1m½f Good To Firm. Well what a race. Held up slightly near the start it looked like The Cayterers had not got a chance. The commentators before the race were not too hopeful. 7 years old, not done this distance before etc. Yet The Cayterers, ridden by M C Geran with a 5lb weight allowance, put up a terrific race. They started their move about 3f out and as they approached the 1f marker The Cayterers came along the inside rail and overtook all before it. It looks like this is the course & distance they need, we will wait and see. No doubt the hadicappers will put the weights up after such a good race. So well done The Cayterers!

Racing Post commented : The Cayterers had put in a couple of fair performances since being stepped up to this trip and came in for some late support. Settled in mid division he had the advantage of the stand-side rails when the majority opted to race down the centre turning into the straight. Travelling well when taking the lead two furlongs out he saw out the distance well. In good heart at present but he will be probeably racing off a career high in the future as he is likely to be raised 3 or 4lbs for this.

Sporting Life: " held up, headway 3f out, led approaching 2f out, ridden out opened 9/1 touched 9/1"

On a different note. Millhouse sydicate I have not forgotten you. I have put up a, hidden, members page on this website and constructed a forum for you. Alas at the moment the pages are blank awaiting James the organiser. However you can get access and start chatting amoungst yourselves if you drop me an email, editor@awcarroll.co.uk and I will tell you how to access the forum.

Off to see Pips Assertive Way racing at Worcester this afternoon. Nice horse and I know she likes the course, that is NOT a tip by the way.

Just got back from Worcester. Yep another win. Pips Assertive Way running in the 15:20. A Selling Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) (4YO plus) 10 ran. Ridden by Mattie Bachelor a jockey who the horse knows well by now. So that combined with a course that she likes. Ground that suited, good with a little bit of cut in it, her chances were never better. She did her usual trick of running in front at the start but about two from home she had slipped to third. I confess I thought at the time that that was where she would finish. She cleared the last hurdle nicely with just the long straight run home and two horses in front of her. Pip's suddenly accelerated passing the leading horses. She kept at bay their challenges until she crossed the finish line. Judging by the shouts around the ring she was well backed.

At the races said. "led until after 2nd, remained prominent, ridden after 5th, slightly outpaced approaching last, rallied gamely flat, led close home"
.

I have just been watching that wonderful horse The Cayterers. He ran tonight, Monday July 6, at Windsor 20:00 Handicap £8000 added, 3yo plus, 1m 2f 7y, Class 4, 8 ran. Going: Good to Firm. Winning Time: 2m 06.83s. Well if you had been watching the race with a hotline to the bookie I am sure at 3 furlongs out you would have got two or three hundred to one against this bay winning. It was at the back at the start and was still there at the three furlong marker. It was at this point the horses went from being bunched to spreading into a thinner line. The Jockey, M Geran, obviously knows the horse well by now and The Cayterers knows him. Together they put on a surge and took advantage of the gaps forming. At two furlongs they got close to the front. At one furlong they were just in the lead with the favourite, Resurge, snapping at their heels. The Cayterers did not dare slacken the pace even a little and his position was challenged right up to the line. The Cayterers charged past the winning post winning by a neck. They say horses for courses and it could not be more true than in this case. Three times in a row The Cayterers, ridden by M Geran, has ridden at Windsor and three times they have won. No doubt Mr. Handicapper will be making some adjustments. Hopefully I will be down at the stables this morning to give him his carrot and polo rewards.
Sporting life said "held up in rear, headway between horses 2f out, ridden to lead over 1f out, driven, stayed on well and always holding on opened 8/1 touched 10/1 £4000-£400" "Racing Post Held up in rear, steady headway from 3f out, driven to lead 1f out, held on well under pressure final furlong (op 8-1, tchd 10-1 in place)"

Another win, and yes I have gone back to my polo & carrott runs this week. This Saturday, July 11, Can Can Star ran in the 17:40 at Nottingham. A Betfair Apprentice Training Series Handicap. 4yo plus, 1m 2f 50y, Class 5. 11 ran. Going: Good to Firm. Ridden by Debra England (3). Can Can Star ran with the pack until they reached the 3 furlong marker then Debra asked and Can Can gave. By two furlongs they were in the lead at the one furlong marker Debra switched on Can Can Stars afterburners and Can Can Star just got quicker and quicker by the time they flashed past the winning post Can Can Star was still accelerating.
Can Can Star won by 4.5 lengths and made it look easy.
Sporting life " chased leaders, led over 2f out, stayed on well opened 6/1 " Racing Post "Always prominent, led over 2f out, ridden clear final furlong (op 6-1)"

Well old Pip's done it again. Last night I went to Worcester to watch Pips Assertive Way run. She was running in the 19:10 a Selling Handicap Hurdle, 4yo plus, 2m 4f, Class 5, 12 ran. Official going Good to Soft, Good in places. Ridden by her favourite jockey Matthew, Mattie, Batchelor. Its an old saying 'Horses for courses' in Pip's case it is certainly true. She knows when she is at Worcester or Stratford Racecourse. Initially I thought she would wear herself out before the race started. She was very impatient to get going presenting Cat, the girl the went with her to the races, a real handful. Really on her toes. The strategy seemed to be to hold her back until the last moment before presenting her to the parade ring to stop her wearing herself out before the race even started. It worked. She galloped off to the start very eager and fresh. The race started. She took the lead. Mattie Batchelor let her stay in the front but not run away. There were a few challenges but for 99% of the race she just plodded her way around the course at a steady pace. Three hurdles from home the horses bunched around her but Mattie and Pips stayed cool and just edged a little further forward. They jumped the last hurdle then Mattie put his hands up her neck and let her go. Need I say more than she won by eight lengths? Another terrific win by a lovely horse. No wonder she is a favourite at Worcester and Stratford, after the race a few bookmaker's wallets were definitely lighter. Of course Mr. Handicapper will no doubt be making changes to her weight handicap before she runs again but she will be 'one to watch' as they say, and no that is not a tip. Sporting Life "made virtually all, ridden approaching last, stayed on well flat opened 9/2 touched 7/1" Racing Post "Made virtually all, ridden approaching last, ran on well (op 9-2 tchd 7-1) " At The Races "made virtually all, ridden approaching last, stayed on well flat"

A good result yesterday. Golden Square ridden by Lee Edwards in the 5:10 at Worcester
a Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle (Class 5) (0-90, 4yo+) 2m Good To Firm 8 hdles.

Right from the start it was an interesting race. The favourite jumped the second hurdle and promptly lost leg iron, veered off to the side and was out of the race. Meanwhile Golden Square and two others left the pack behind and went some 12 lengths in front. Effectively making it a race of two groups. The three leaders, including Golden Square, vied for position right up to the third from home when Golden Square dropped back to second place. Lee Edwards kept his head jumped the last and urged Golden Square on. Driven on Golden Square gradually overtook the leader and increased his lead so by the time they crossed the finish line Golden Square had won by some 3 1/2 lengths. Well done Golden Square and Lee Edwards. Racing Post "Led to 5th, ridden and outpaced approaching 3 out, rallied approaching last, led flat, driven out "

Well old Lordship has done it again. Recently re-fuelled with polo mints and carrots from my wife Lordship headed up to Ayr, the land of Haggis and Kilts, to run two races in two days. I thought he showed well on the first day of racing to come from the very back to make a good third place. But the next day, Thursday 27th, was even better Lordship ran in the 17:10. An Open Apprentice Handicap, 4yo plus, 1m, Class 6, 13 ran. Going: Soft. Ridden by Jake Payne (5) They sat with the leaders for most of the race and coming up to the two furlong marker they sat third. It must have been tempting for Jockey to push to the front then but Jake kept his head and when they flashed past the last furlong marker Jake put his hands up Lordships neck and drove him on. Lordship responded with a will and a surge of speed getting to the front accelerating all the time. By the time they crossed the winning post they were some three lengths in front of the rest and still going strong. Well done Jake Payne and Lordship. As a footnote we visited Lordship on his return the next day and you would think he had only been to the gallops the day before.
Sporting Life "close up, led over 2f out, kept on well opened 10/1 touched 10/1 "

Unfortunately I was not free to go and watch Lordship run his race at Chepstow on Friday so I visited him at the stables on Thursday morning instead. He looked in fine form, as usual, when I offered him his carrot and polo mint bribe. Then on Friday, September 4, he ran in the 17:40 Chepstow Apprentice Training Series Handicap. 3yo plus, 7f 16y, Class 6, 12 ran. Thanks to recent rain the going was Good to Soft, Soft in places. The ground Lordship likes. Best of all he had Jake Payne on his back. Lordship and Jake have grown accustomed to each other. Out of the gate Lordship was towards the front but never that prominent. The undulating course presents a challenge to Lordship and around the two furlong marker the course goes up hill and Lordship slowed slightly and was overtaken. But Jake kept his cool allowed Lordship to do what he does best, plod at a steady pace, and once up the hill and on the flat in the final furlong Jake gave one encouraging tap to Lordship’s behind and drove him on. They overtook the leader and kept increasing speed until they crossed the finish line some 2 1/2 lengths in front. It was pleasing to see them after they pulled up as both looked like they had enjoyed the race. Well done Jake Payne and Lordship, again! A good partnership.
Sporting Life "prominent, led after 1f, clear well inside final furlong, comfortably opened 10/3 touched 3/1 "
Racing Post " With leader, led over 4f out, pushed along over 2f out, ran on well (op 100-30 tchd 3-1 and 5-1)"

A winner.   Le Corvee ran in the 15:50 at Ludlow last Thursday, October 15th. It was a Handicap Hurdle for 4yo Plus. Distance 2m 2f a Class 4 race. 7 Ran. Ground good to Firm, good in places.
The race started at a steady pace with Le Corvee holding midfield. Going over fourth last he made a mistake but luckily did not loose any ground. At the 2nd hurdle from home again the Jockey made a mistake (I seldom blame the horse) and I think this is where the Jockey, B J Geraghty, lost his whip. Le Corvee did not need reminding that he needed to speed up and speed up he did. Overtaking the leaders and staying there until he crossed the line.   A nice win. Well done Le Corvee & Geraghty.

I feel I must also mention Arctic Wings who ran on Saturday October 17 in the 16:25 at Cheltenham. A Handicap Hurdle for 4yo plus, 2m 5f, Class 2. 14 ran. Going: Good to Firm, Good in places. Ridden by W Hutchinson this horse ran its heart out and against a field of 14 came in with a very respectable 3rd place.   A good race against decent competition. One to keep an eye on perhaps?

If any of you have visited the stables lately you will have seen extra horses out in the paddocks.   They were out enjoying the sunshine, and the juicy grass, whilst building maintenance work was being carried out in the Walker Barn. Its now sporting a new roof and sides. The insides have had a fresh coat of paint and it all looks, and smells, very fresh. The builders have done an excellent job, well he is an ex-jockey, and it should be structurally good for a few years to come. At the same time they re-covered the hay storage barn opposite. Further works are planned. So the Millhouse facilities, good as they were before, are improving all the time.

I went up to the yard yesterday morning, Wednesday. Pleased to report all the horses are looking fit and well. Polo mints and carrots distributed as usual.

Well I am happy to report another win. Wednesday November 4 at Warwick in the 12:50 - a Handicap Hurdle, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 4, 11 ran. Going: Good. Golden Square ridden by Stable Jockey Lee Edwards.
The horses set off at a fair pace and 5 flights from home Golden Square settled into third place. Three flights from home Lee moved Golden Square up to second place but then gave us a fright with a slight mistake at the second hurdle from home. Golden Squares' back legs went through the hurdles instead of over, but luckily no ground was lost. This did not put the pair off instead at the last hurdle they put in a wonderful jump stealing the lead. Head down Lee Pushed Golden Square and drove him across the line to secure another win.
Sporting Life "tracked leaders, went 2nd approaching 3 out, soon ridden, led after next, stayed on well flat opened 7/1 touched 8/1
"

I paid the stables a visit on Friday and did my rounds bribing the horses with their usual polo's and carrots, ensuring Lordship got his carrot bribe before departing on his long trip up to Ayr. All the horses are looking well and enjoying the unexpected warm weather.

I have come to believe more and more in the saying "horses for courses" because Lordship is certainly a good example of this. Yes he won again. The light rain the night before certainly helped as Lordship likes a bit of 'cut' in the ground. With Jake Payne aboard Lordship was either challenging the leaders or actually in front for most of the race. Jake knows Lordship well by now and knows how to get the best out of him. With ears pricked forward (the horse not Jake) Lordship relished the lead and from the one furlong marker there was no catching them. Jake Payne and Lordship stormed across the line leaving the nearest on to trail in at least five lengths behind. Race details: 3.20 Ayr, Handicap £3,886 - (7f 50y) Class 5.

I always enjoy saying this ........ A double!! Tudor Prince running in the 6.35 at Kempton a Handicap (Div 1), (7f) Class 6. Ridden by N Callan. Nothing much in the race at all until the 2 furlong marker when Callan kicked on and Tudor Prince stretched for home. He just got faster and faster and made it look easy when they crossed the finish line, 2 lengths in front of their nearest rivals. But remembering that they were riding at top weight you have to give credit where its due. This was a great race by both horse and rider.

Another exciting win on Saturday, November 7, running at Sandown in the 13:40. A Juvenile Novices' Hurdle. 3yo only, 2m 110y, Class 4, 7 ran. Going: Good, Good to Soft in places.
Blazing Buck ridden by P Merrigan. Blazing Buck showed promise halfway around when he got to the front and looked like he was going to make the running but at the 3 furlong marker you would surely have got 100/1 against him winning because he was literally at the back of the pack with only one horse behind him, and that horse had ceased racing. But it just proves one should never give up because surely and steadily Blazing Buck picked up the pace. Jumped well and caught up the pack picking them off one by one until he was in the lead. Whilst the others strained towards the finish line Blazing Buck simply dictated the pace and cruised across the line leaving the nearest follower some two lengths behind. The third, A P Mcoy's horse, 9 lengths behind that. Blazing Buck and Merrigan made it look almost effortless. Could this be a horse that is going to keep us on our toes until the final three furlongs in future races? I look forward to finding out. Well done Blazing Buck and P Merrigan.

Sporting Life " led, jumped left 1st and 2nd, headed 3rd, hit 5th, outpaced after 3 out, rallied approaching 2 out, soon challenging, stayed on under pressure to lead towards finish opened 25/1 touched 25/1 "

Racing Post "Led at slow pace to 3rd, losing place when mistake 5th, dropped to 5th and pushed along after next, rallied strongly before 2 out, went 2nd last, stayed on to lead final 100yds (op 25-1 tchd 14-1)"

Well what an exciting weekend it has been. I am sure by now you all know that Zafranagar ran in the 3.45 at Cheltenham, 14th November, a Novices' Handicap Hurdle (Class 3) (0-125, 3yo+) (2m110y) 2m½f Soft 8 hdles. The horses rode as a pack and to be honest there was not much in it. Before the 3f marker it could have been anyone's race. Then approaching the 2f Zafranagar, ridden by Robert Thornton, put in that bit extra and took the lead. Zafranagar did not have it easy. Challenged all the time by horses snapping at his heals and pressurising him at the sides. But from somewhere,( perhaps it was my wife shouting at the tv?) Zafranagar and Robert dug into reserves of stamina and crossed the line in first place. A truly memorable race. A great win for horse, jockey, owners and stable.
Racing Post "Chased leaders, led after 2 out, ridden and held on all out run-in (op 9-1) "

Friday, November 20, King Olav, running at Ascot in the 14:05. A Introductory Hurdle, 4yo plus, 2m, Class 3, 10 ran. Going: Good. I thought King Olav, ridden by N Fehily, ran a really good race yesterday. In the last few furlongs it was virtually a three horse race, the rest of the chasers well behind. Over the last furlong King Olav put in a terrific effort leaving the 1-2f behind as the two leaders, King Olav and 'Inventor' vied for first. Alas at the line King Olav was beaten to come in second but this cannot detract from the fine performance put in by both horse and Jockey. Obviously a horse in good condition. One to watch perhaps? If the handicapper does not penalise too harshly that is.
Sporting life "keen, led, headed 3 out, ridden to lead again bend approaching 2 out, driven and edged left flat, headed towards finish opened 28/1"

I went down to visit the horses yesterday. Polo's and carrots distributed and pleased to report the horses all look fit and well.

Stoop To Conquer won! Running in the 12:30 at Huntingdon today, 10 Dec. A 2m 5f 110y Handicap Hurdle (Class 4) (4YO plus) 16 ran. Going good to soft. Jockey Graham Lee rode a very tactical race. Literally at the rear for most of the race they only really made their move coming around the final bend where they crept up to 6th place. 2nd from last hurdle three horses jumped together and Stoop To Conquer lay third. By the last hurdle Stoop and Graham lay in second place. Then with nothing but a horse in front Stoop To Conquer shifted up a gear and put in a great sprint for the finish line leaving the others well behind. Stoop To Conquer and Graham Lee won by a comfortable length from their nearest rival. Nice race.
At The Races "held up in rear, blundered 1st, headway after 4 out to track leaders, led last, kept on well"
Racing Post "Held up, mistake 3rd, headway approaching 2 out, led flat, ridden out (op 25-1 tchd 14-1) "

Well Christmas Eve is here at last.   I went up to the stables yesterday to find the stables very quiet, almost deserted.   The horses had been fed and cleaned out but no riding. Everyone had gone home for a while. The frost had struck during the night and the ground was too far hard to ride. Polo's etc distributed I stood there almost alone apart from glimpses of two members of staff busily going about their work. By now, Lunchtime, the sun was shining and the hard frost was rapidly turning to soft mud. As I drove out the gate a procession of cars came the opposite way. It was all the staff returning to do the horses daily exercise. You have to take your hat off to them. Not only do they have to ride in all weathers they also have to be time flexible and ride only when it is good for the horses. Nice to know they are all in such capable hands.

So all that remains is to say thank you for reading these coloums over the past twelve months. Hope you found them informative and entertaining.   See you next year!
Have a nice Christmas and New Year.

Frank C, Editor Tony Carroll's Webpage.