Saturday, November 17, 2007

THE OPEN 2007 - PADDY POWER GOLD CUP DAY
RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE
CHELTENHAM, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17



RAIN AHEAD, PREDICTS CLERK OF COURSE

Claisse said: “We’re expecting it to be wet tonight with up to half an inch of rain - that’s 12 to 14mm.

“It is likely to continue raining before racing tomorrow, but we’re expecting it to turn to showers and become brighter during the afternoon.

“The hurdle rail around the course will be moved overnight to provide fresh ground.”


DAY TWO GUINNESS MOMENT

The second “Guinness Moment” of The Open is between Franchoek (A), L’Antartique (B) and Tony McCoy (C).

The shortlist was chosen by a panel of journalists.

People can vote for the winner by texting “moment” followed by A, B or C to 80818 by 11am tomorrow.

There is a further Guinness Moment tomorrow.


Race 4 - Paddy Power Gold Cup - Winning Quotes

L’ANTARTIQUE POWERS HOME FOR GOLD

The Ferdy Murphy-trained L’Antartique showed all his stamina to win the highlight of The Open, the £120,000 Paddy Power Gold Cup by a neck from Il Duce.

A 13/2 chance, L’Antartique came from off the pace to overhaul Il Duce on the run-in and showed determination to hold off a renewed challenge from the same rival close home.

This was a second Cheltenham victory for L’Antartique, following his win the Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase at The Festival in March, 2007.

Ferdy Murphy said: “The plan has worked out and it was a great run with a great man on top (Graham Lee). Everything has gone really well.

“He was a bit more forward than we thought when he won his on his prep run at Carlisle, but we were pleasantly surprised.

“He got a 3lb penalty for that win, and I thought if we just got beat today than it may be because of that.

“At the top of the hill, I thought he had just got trapped but Graham kept his cool and the gaps appeared for him. He rode a very cool race.

“I think we will now step him up in class and go for the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown.

“He wants three miles now - his pedigree is screaming out for a trip. Cheltenham really suits him well. I’m not sure Leopardstown will suit him as well as here, but we need to see how he copes with a step up in class.

“He was a good horse before I got him. He won his first two bumpers when he was with Tony Mullins but he didn’t really take to hurdles and his jumping was not great. It took a long time to get him jumping well.”

Murphy was keen to pay tribute to L’Antartique’s lad Takashi Iiyama, who hails from Japan.

The North Yorkshire-based handler continued: “I would like to pay tribute to his lad Takashi Iiyama, who has done so much with this horse and helped to get him jumping.

“He found out about the yard through our internet site and got in contact with us.

“It took a hell of a long time to get his work permit sorted out with all the red tape but he has done so much with L’Antartique.”


PADDY POWER GOLD CUP

THE WINNING JOCKEY

Graham Lee, the winning jockey on L’Antartique in today’s feature, the £120,000 Paddy Power Gold Cup, said: “ He’s a proper horse. They went very quick and he jumped superb - the best he has ever jumped.

“Like the boss said to me before the Jewson last season “just tough it out”. At the top of the hill, I was a long way back but I wasn’t really concerned because he started to free wheel.

“I switched him out to give him a bit of light and I switched him in again two out. When he changed leads, he just took off and I got there too soon again!

“He gave me a good ride. I got stuck once or twice but when you are going that pace it probably does you a favour because you get to fill up.

“He is a good horse - he has natural ability - a lot of it.

“I just want to say that I have had a great day but my thoughts are with Ruby (Walsh) who has had an absolute mother and father of a fall - I hope he is OK.”

Lee, who won at The Festival on L’Antartique in the Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase, was celebrating his second winner at The Open 2007, having partnered Glasker Mill to score in Friday’s paddypower.com Graduation Chase.


Race 4: Paddy Power Gold Cup Chase
PLACED QUOTES

IL DUCE SO GAME IN DEFEAT

Trainer Alan King was thrilled with seven-year-old Il Duce after the 33-1 outsider ran a fine race to finish the neck second to L’Antartique in the Paddy Power Gold Cup.

Il Duce led in the straight, but was passed by the winner approaching the last. Despite rallying to hold off third-placed Knowhere, King’s horse could not quite find enough to land the main prize.

The second and third will now head for different targets - Il Duce will be aimed for the boylesports.com Handicap Chase at Cheltenham’s Boylesports International meeting in mid December, while Knowhere will head for Newbury’s Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup.

King said of Il Duce: “He hasn’t run like a 33-1 shot. I couldn’t be more pleased with the horse. He jumped well, travelled well and did everything right bar beat Ferdy’s horse. He’ll come back here in December all being well.

“I’ve trained various members of his family, including The Big Canadian who was a half-brother, and I’ve got Il Duce’s unraced three-year-old full brother at home. He won’t be out until the spring, but he is very nice.”

Nigel Twiston-Davies, trainer of Knowhere, said: “I’m very pleased considering he was giving weight to the first and second. It looks like the Hennessy next if he comes out of this all right. It may come too soon, so we’ll have to wait and see.

“He couldn’t quite get to them, but he was flying at the end. That seems to be the proof that he needs further.”


WILLYANWOODY & GRANIT JACK

Willyanwoody in the Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase and Granit Jack in the Paddy Power Gold Cup had fatal falls. They both died instantly.

NICHOLLS REFLECTS

Trainer Paul Nicholls, who saw Paddy Power Gold Cup favourite Granit Jack take a fatal fall in the Paddy Power Gold Cup, reflected on his day.

The champion trainer said: “What can you say?

“It just shows that the line between success and failure is so small.

“I think we were just damned unlucky. The horse was travelling so well and took a very similar fall to that of Twist Magic in the Arkle last season.

“We couldn’t have done things any differently. Liam (Heard) couldn’t have done anything differently. Obviously, he came in late for the ride but did everything right.

“We put our head on the block today by saying Granit Jack was well-handicapped - which he was - and no stone was left unturned.

“He schooled last weekend and was fit and well. Horses like him don’t come along very often.

“You can’t blame anybody.”


ANOTHER RECORD ATTENDANCE

For the second day running, there was a record crowd at Cheltenham for The Open

Today, Paddy Power Gold Cup day, saw 33,404 come racing. This is an increase of 3,332 (+10.8 per cent) on the previous record of 30,072 for Paddy Power Gold Cup day last year.

A new record attendance of 22,351 for the Friday of The Open, Countryside Day, was recorded at Cheltenham yesterday. The previous record for the day came last year when 21,505 attended.


Race 1: Ryman The Stationer Novices’ Handicap Hurdle
WINNER’S QUOTES

KIA KAHA LIFTED BY MIGHTY McCOY

Tony McCoy was at his strongest as day two of The Open got underway at Cheltenham today.

Riding Kia Kaha for trainer Jonjo O’Neill, McCoy drove his partner back in front to win by a neck after he was headed on the run-in by the Paul Carberry-ridden Roman Villa. Carberry’s whip flicked out of his hand in the drive for the line, but he emphatically denied it had cost his mount the race - you could see his point given that McCoy was firing for the opposition.

O’Neill said of the J P McManus-owned winner: “He stayed and stuck to his guns - that applies to horse and rider. He looked like he was stuffed, but he kept going.

“He jumped and travelled well and did everything right, but the plan is just to carry on and find another little race somewhere.”

Asked about Don’t Push It, who was favourite for today’s Paddy Power Gold Cup until withdrawn from the race earlier this week, O’Neill said: “He’s lame behind - the problem’s not in his leg, but higher up. He won’t be out again until Christmas or just after.”



Race 1 - Ryman The Stationer Novices’ Handicap Hurdle

JOCKEYS GIVE THEIR VIEWS ON THE GROUND

Following the running of the first race on day two of The Open 2007, the Ryman The Stationer Novices’ Handicap Hurdle, the following jockeys gave their views as to the state of the ground.

Tony McCoy, rider of the winner Kia Kaha, said: “Good, a bit dead.”

Barry Geraghty, rider of Fen Game, said: “On the slow side. Dead.”

Ruby Walsh, rider of Sendani, said: “Good.”

Timmy Murphy, rider of Nacadour, said: “Good, just on the easy side.”

Peter Buchanan, rider of Augustine, said: “I didn’t ride here yesterday, but to me it rode like good to firm ground. Then again, I usually ride on the ground up north! Anyway, it’s good, safe jumping ground.”

Mark Darcy, rider of Oscillating Oscar, said: “Good.”


Race 2 - Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase - Winning Quotes

QUICK DOUBLE FOR JACKDAWS TEAM

The trainer/jockey combination of Jonjo O’Neill/Tony McCoy enjoyed a quickfire 12.5/1 double when Albertas Run collected the Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase to follow on from the success of Kia Kaha in the opening Ryman The Stationer Novices’ Handicap Hurdle. In addition, the winner also provided Tony McCoy with his 100th success of the season.

The 7/2 shot, owned by Trevor Hemmings, saw off the challenge of Sizing Australia when the pair went clear from the second last and recorded a length and a quarter success.

Jonjo O’Neill said: “The ground was probably as soft as he wants it today. It is lovely jumping ground but I thought it might have been a bit faster.

“Albertas Run is a good little horse and I was shocked how badly he jumped at Aintree last time - he was lucky to stay on his feet that day.

“We brought him here today as Cheltenham is a good jumping track in that it is a good, flowing track.”

Paddy Power introduced Albertas Run at 25/1 and Stan James have cut Albertas Run to 25/1 (from 50/1) for the Royal & SunAlliance Chase at The Festival in March, although O’Neill was non-committal as to whether the gelding would be aimed at that contest.

The master of Jackdaws Castle continued: “The Festival is a long way off.

“I think we will look for another small race now. After his bad jumping at Aintree last time, I thought it might take some time to get his confidence back. He stays well.”



Race 2: Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase

HEARD RIDES GRANIT JACK AS WALSH INJURES SHOULDER

Ireland’s champion jockey, Ruby Walsh, has dislocated his shoulder, following a fall in the Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase.

Racecourse doctors are examining him for other possible injuries, but he will not be able to ride hot favourite Granit Jack in today’s feature race, the Paddy Power Gold Cup.

Liam Heard, a jockey based with Granit Jack’s trainer, Paul Nicholls, will now ride Granit Jack. Heard, a 3lb conditional jockey who cannot claim his allowance in a race of this value, rushed to Cheltenham having finished tenth in the first race (12.30) at Uttoxeter.

Nicholls said; “It’s handy Liam could get here, because he knows the horse well and only schooled him yesterday morning. He cannot claim, but he can do 10st.”

Walsh suffered a heavy fall when the Nicholls-trained WillyanWoody tipped up three from home in the Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase.

AUSTRALIA GOES DOWN TO ALBERTAS RUN

Tony McCoy won the Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase, but Sizing Australia made the champion work hard for the prize.

Ridden by Mark Darcy, Sizing Australia went down by one and a quarter lengths. Henry De Bromhead, trainer of the runner-up, said: “I’m delighted with that, because he’s run well in a race that’s a little above his standard. He’s been beaten by a better horse.

“He’s above average, but not top class. He’ll stick to novices’ chases, and since he’s better on good ground we might look after him for the festivals next spring.

Race 3 - Cleanevent Juvenlie Novices’ Hurdle - Winning Quotes

FRANCHOEK FOLLOWS KATCHIT ROUTE

Franchoek was the highly-impressive winner of the Grade Two Cleanevent Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle. The Alan King-trained three-year-old was following in the footsteps of stable companion Katchit, who won this contest 12 months ago prior to success in the JCB Triumph Hurdle at The Festival.

A warm 6/5 favourite, Franchoek travelled well throughout under Robert Thornton and scored an eight-length success over Won In The Dark.

Alan King said: “He’s good.

“I’ve been looking forward to running him all week and I thought he was our best chance of a winner this week.

“The form of his win at Chepstow has not worked out brilliantly, but he did win that race very well.

“I think his programme will be to continue to come to Cheltenham as he needs a stiff track. The only deviation may be to go to Chepstow for the Finale Hurdle. He wouldn’t be the sort of horse to go somewhere like Kempton.

“We have had Franchoek since he was a yearling so it is very satisfying. He was supposed to be a good two-year-old on the Flat but I did at least get him well-handicapped!

“He is a very different sort of horse to Katchit. Katchit would have much more speed whereas this horse is far more of a grinder and a stayer. He reminds me more of Mysilv from my days with the Duke.

“We have 10 to 12 juvenile hurdlers in for this season and Franchoek sets the standard.

“I kept saying last year that Katchit wasn’t my best juvenile hurdler so this year I’m just going to let the horses do the talking!”



Race 5: Lombard Properties Handicap Hurdle
WINNER’S QUOTES

BRAVE SONNYANJOE REWARDS HOGAN

The Paddy Brennan-ridden Sonnyanjoe defied eight rivals to win this competitive handicap hurdle - but he’s been defying the odds since running at Naas two years ago.

Trainer Tom Hogan said: “There were tears in my eyes as he came up the run-in today. Two years ago at Naas he broke down on both front tendons and the vet told me to put him down - his owner agreed.

“But I wouldn’t allow them to do it because he is so brave. He broke down on one leg three out, but kept going and the other tendon went on the run-in, yet he was only beaten just over five lengths into fifth.

“He has so much heart. We took him home, sedated him, and then gave him two years off. His success since then has been all down to my staff - he lives in a spa.

“He might turn out next week at Haydock, but he likes good ground and I wouldn’t run him on firm. He does well in England because they go a good pace - sometimes in Ireland that’s not the case in staying hurdles.

“He must be getting near the end of his capabilities now. He’s nine, and he keeps going up a lot in the handicap, and with a horse like him you cannot be too ambitious. His tendons are like bananas.”


Race 6 - Servo Computer Services Trophy - Winning Quotes

REMBRANDT BACK

Sir Rembrandt, runner-up to Best Mate in the 2004 totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup and third behind Kicking King in the same contest a year later, showed a return to form when taking the Servo Computer Services Trophy, the concluding event on day two of The Open 2007.

The 11-year-old was making his first appearance for trainer Victor Dartnall, having previously been under the care of Robert Alner. He went into a clear lead from the second last and won by 13 lengths from Cornish Sett.

A delighted owner, Alan Hordle, said: “I am delighted he has come back to his best.

“He had just lost his enthusiasm and we thought a change of scenery would do him good. He has been in training for seven years now and I had a couple of horses with Victor before so that is why I sent him there.

“He was on a good handicap mark today.

“I think he will now go for the Welsh National. He is in the Hennessy but that is only two weeks away.”

Victor Dartnall added: “We have just freshened him up and old horses often benefit from a change.

“It’s good to see the horse come back, although these old horses often do run well on their first run back and then their form tails off again!

“I am sorry for Robert Alner as he did nothing wrong with the horse - I think it was just the change of scenery that helped him. I hope Robert gets right again soon (Alner suffered serious injuries after a car accident last week).”


RECORD CROWD ON COUNTRYSIDE DAY YESTERDAY

A new record crowd of 22,351 was seen for the Friday of The Open, Countryside Day, at Cheltenham yesterday.

The previous record for the day came last year when 21,505 attended.


LAST YEAR’S FIGURES FOR 2006

The 30,072 that came to Paddy Power Gold Cup day last year was a record.

The Sunday crowd was 17,214 in 2006, slightly down on the 2005 record figure of 17,545.

The overall attendance figure at The Open 2006 was 68,791 - a new record. The previous record attendance for the three days of The Open was 67,309 in 2005.

SPOT GRABS THE HEADLINES

Spot Thedifference’s mushrooming popularity in the hearts of racing fans is reflected in the coverage he has created in Britain’s national press today.

The gallant 14-year-old won his seventh race at Cheltenham yesterday when fighting back for victory in the BGC Cross Country Chase - the fact that he slipped and fell seconds after crossing the line merely added another page to his story, and cheers rang out around the Cotswolds as he rose from the turf.

The Sun led its Saturday racing coverage with the headline ‘Top Spot’ as Claude Duval recalled the previous day’s drama alongsie a full-page picture of the horse and jockey J T McNamara jumping the last.

The Guardian split its racing headlines, printing a colour picture of Spot The Difference alongside coverage of today’s TV races, while The Independent includes two pictures of the horse and a comment from Chris McGrath that says ‘Talk about respect for the elderly’.

The Times led on Rob Wright’s tip for Granit Jack in today’s Paddy Power Gold Cup, but on the following page paid fulsome tribute with the headline ‘Spot Thedifference has crowd in seventh heaven’.

In similar vein The Telegraph says ‘Spot’s fans in seventh heaven after scare’, and while the Mirror majors on L’Antartique’s chance in the Paddy Power Gold Cup, its succint reference to yesterday’s drama is ‘Spot of bother’.

Mick Fitzgerald’s regular Saturday column in the Daily Star leads that paper’s coverage - ‘I’ve got the Power’ he says in reference to his big-race ride - but Tony Lewis acknowledges the Irish horse’s love of Cheltenham under the headline ‘Seven up for Spot’.

Spot Thedifference makes headlines by being successful, but also because he shows a terrific will to win. It is hard to believe that three years ago he was merely an average hunter chaser - then he finished fifth in the Grand National, won the following month’s La Touche Cup at Punchestown, and the following season made a clean sweep of Cheltenham’s three cross-country chases, culminating in victory at The Festival.

BOLGER: ‘SPOT THEDIFFERENCE HASN’T A BOTHER ON HIM’

Trainer Enda Bolger reports Spot Thedifference in A1 condition after his memorable victory in the BGC Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham yesterday.

Bolger said: “There’s not a bother on him. He was put on a lorry this morning at 8am and we are expecting him home at about 10pm tonight.

“He had a walk out after the race and was happy to have a graze, and he ate up last night.”

After winning yesterday’s race, his seventh over Cheltenham’s cross-country course, Spot Thedifference lost his footing and slipped up as jockey J T McNamara was pulling him up. From some camera angles it was impossible to see the cause of the fall, and many people assumed he had suffered a heart attack - cheers rang out when he rose to his feet.

Bolger said: “It was a strange one. I was watching the screen, saw him go down and because a white railing was hiding what was going on I thought it was all over. Yet there’s not a scratch on him.”

Asked whether Spot Thedifference will come back to next month’s Cheltenham meeting for the BGC-sponsored handicap cross-country chase, Bolger said: “I have to talk to the boss [owner J P McManus]. We’ve made no decision. We’ll just get him home and turn him out in a paddock for a few days.”

Bolger was speaking while travelling to Punchestown where Heads Onthe Ground represents his stable today in the Event Power Risk Of Thunder Chase (12.45) over the banks course. Heads Onthe Ground won at last season’s Cheltenham Festival, and Bolger added he was a possible contender for next month’s BGC Cross Country Chase.

FIRST GUINNESS MOMENT GOES TO SPOT

The first “Guinness Moment” of The Open was not surprisingly won by Spot Thedifference who gained an overwhelming 84 per cent of the vote.

The shortlist for yesterday, as chosen by a panel of journalists, was Spot Thedifference (A), Graham Lee (B) and Katie Walsh (C).

People voted for the winner by texting “moment” followed by A, B or C to 80818 by 11am today.

There are further Guinness Moments today and tomorrow.


GOING

The going for day two of The Open 2007, Paddy Power Gold Cup Day, remains:

GOOD

on the Chase and Hurdle courses.

Simon Claisse, Clerk of the Course and Director of Racing at Cheltenham, said: “We had a frost-free night with just a few spots of rain and the going remains good all over.

“The forecast is for up to half an inch of rain after racing tonight up until the start of racing tomorrow.”

PADDY POWER MARKET MOVERS

Several horses have come into support with today’s principal sponsor, Paddy Power.

In the opening Ryman The Stationer Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (12.55pm), Kia Kaha has hardened into 9/4 (from 5/2). The David Pipe-trained Nacadour is 7/1 (from 10/1) in the same event.

Oniz Tiptoes is 8/1 (from 10/1) in the Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase (1.25pm) while Franchoek is now 6/5 (from 11/8) in the Cleanevent Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2.00pm).

Today’s feature is of course the Paddy Power Gold Cup (2.35pm) where favourite Granit Jack is now into 11/4 (from 7/2). One outsider for money is the Jonathan Geake-trained Black Hills, who has come into 66/1 (from 100/1) having been put up by the Valuescope column in the Daily Mirror.

The best-backed horse of the day so far with Paddy Power has been Sonnymanjoe in the Lombard Properties Handicap Hurdle (3,10pm) who is now 3/1 (from 9/2). Favourite Blazing Bailey is out to 2/1 (from 13/8) while Lyes Green is into 7/1 (from 8/1).

Today’s concluding event, the Servo Computer Services Trophy Handicap Chase (3.40pm) has seen Bob Bob Bobbin cut to 4/1 (from 9/2).

SPECIAL OFFERS

Once again, Paddy Power will refund stakes on any horse that falls, unseats its rider or is brought down at Cheltenham today.

OTHER FIRMS’ BETTING NEWS

totesport report money for Nacadour in the opening Ryman The Stationer Novices’ Handicap Chase (12.55pm) and the David Pipe-trained gelding is now 7/1 (from 8/1).

Race two, the Club 16-24 Novices’ Chase (1.25pm), has seen Opera de Coeur come into 11/1 (from 14/1) with Cashmans while Coral report money for the Colin Tizzard-trained outsider Mokujin, who is 33/1 from 50/1).

Franchoek is 5/4 (from 6/4) with Cashmans in the Cleanevent Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2.00pm).

It’s all about Granit Jack in the feature Paddy Power Gold Cup (2.35pm). The Paul Nicholls-trained five-year-old, yet to jump a fence in public in Britain, is now 5/2 from 7/2 (Stan James), 5/2 from 11/4 (Cashmans) and 11/4 from 7/2 (Coral, totesport). Others for money with Stan James are Three Mirrors (16/1 from 25/1) and Black Hills (66/1 from 100/1). Stan James also report money for Granit Jack in the market for the Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase at The Festival in March and have cut him in that contest to 14/1 (from 20/1).

Two for money in the Lombard Properties Handicap Hurdle (3.10pm) are Sonnyanjoe (3.10pm), who is 3/1 (from 7/2) with totesport and Juveigneur, now 9/2 (from 6/1) with Cashmans.

A couple of horses attracting support with Cashmans in the final race of the day, the Servo Computer Services Trophy (3.40pm), are Bob Bob Bobbin (4/1 from 9/2) and Sir Rembrandt (7/1 from 10/1).

FIRST RACE RESULT

12.55pm RYMAN THE STATIONER NOVICES’ HANDICAP HURDLE
£15,000 guaranteed, 2m 1/2f Old Course, For 3yo+ Rated 0-120 Minimum Weight 10st Penalties after November 10, each hurdle won 7lb Fen Game’s Handicap Mark 120 Entries 46 pay £75 Penalty Value 1st £9,394.50; 2nd £2,775; 3rd £1,387.50; 4th £694.50; 5th £346.50; 6th £174

1 KIA KAHA (J P McManus) Jonjo O'Neill 5-10-13 Tony McCoy 2/1f
2 ROMAN VILLA (USA) (David Pierce) Gordon Elliott IRE 5-10-13t Paul Carberry 14/1
3 NATIVE ROYAL (IRE) (South Syndicate) Tom Hogan IRE 5-11-07t Kevin Coleman 33/1
4 AUGUSTINE (Dunalistair Estates Ltd) Lucinda Russell 6-10-12 Peter Buchanan 25/1
5 SENDANI (FR) (Mrs & Mrs R Nevison & Mr & Mrs G Mason) Paul Nicholls 4-11-06b1 Ruby Walsh
6 FEN GAME (IRE) (Easter Syndicate) Edward O'Grady IRE 5-11-12t Barry Geraghty
7 LOOK WHO'S BACK (IRE) (Patrick Mahony) Eric McNamara IRE 7-11-05 Paddy Flood
8 KHAZAR (FR) (J P McManus) Thierry Doumen FR 4-10-10 Paddy Brennan
9 MON MICHEL (IRE) (The Gingerbread Men) Gary Moore 4-11-10 Jamie Moore
10 TRIGGERNOMETRY (The Butterwick Syndicate) Colin Tizzard 6-11-07 Joe Tizzard
11 WARSAW PACT (IRE) (Diana Whateley) Philip Hobbs 4-11-00 Richard Johnson
12 NACADOUR (FR) (The West Coast Syndicate) David Pipe 6-11-02p Timmy Murphy
13 OSCILLATING OSCAR (IRE) (Alan Potts) Henry De Bromhead IRE 5-10-12t Mark Darcy
14 INDIAN PIPE DREAM (IRE) (John Webb) Steve Gollings 5-10-11 Graham Lee
15 HOLIDAY COCKTAIL (Estio Racing) John Quinn 5-11-02 Dominic Elsworth
16 DAN BUOY (FR) (Nigel Bunter) Alan King 4-11-06 Robert Thornton
17 MOLE'S CHAMBER (IRE) (Robin and Chris Barber) Victor Dartnall 6-11-02 James White (3)
18 ALAMIYAN (IRE) (W Hennessy) John Carr IRE 5-10-13 Philip Carberry
P ARCHIE BOY (IRE) (Charles Harte) Shane Donohoe IRE 5-11-12 Mick Fitzgerald
P PRESIDENT PARK (FR) (Optimumracing.co.uk) Tim Vaughan 5-10-12 Seamus Durack

20 ran
Distances: nk, 1 1/4, 2 1/2, 4, 6, 3/4, 2, 3 1/2, 3/4, 9, 4, nk, 1/2, 2, 9, 3 1/2, 6
Breeding: b g Sir Harry Lewis (USA) - Not Enough (Ballinger)
Breeder: Wood Farm Stud
Totes: Wins: £3.00 Places: £1.30; £2.70; £7.20; £6.40 Exacta: £36.10
Winning Trainer: JONJO O’NEILL Born: April 13, 1952 Based: Jackdaws Castle, Gloucestershire Career: former National Hunt jockey Cheltenham Festival Wins (14): Pertemps Final (1991 Danny Connors, 2003 Inching Closer, 2004 Creon); National Hunt Chase (1995 Front Line, 2002 Rith Dubh, 2003 Sudden Shock, 2004 Native Emperor, 2007 Butler’s Cabin); Vincent O’Brien County H’cap Hurdle (2000 Master Tern), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2003 Spectroscope), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift), Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Black Jack Ketchum, 2007 Wichita Lineman), Christie’s Foxhunter Chase (2007 Drombeag) Aintree Festival wins: Betfair Bowl (2007 Exotic Dancer), John Smith’s Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices’ Hurdle (2002 Quazar), John Smith’s Extra Smooth Handicap Hurdle (2002 Intersky Falcon), John Smith’s Topham Chase (2003 Clan Royal), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Iris’s Gift, 2006 Black Jack Ketchum), John Smith’s Liverpool Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift), S&N Aintree Hurdle (2004 Rhinestone Cowboy) Other Big Race Wins: Ballymore Properties Champion Stayers’ Hurdle (2004 Rhinestone Cowboy), Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (2005 Black Jack Ketchum), Challow Hurdle (2002 Coolnagorna, 2006 Wichita Lineman), Christmas Hurdle (2002 & 2003 Intersky Falcon), Cleeve Hurdle (2006 Fire Dragon), Edward Hanmer Chase (2003 Keen Leader), Emo Oil Champion Hurdle (2003 Quazar), Fighting Fifth Hurdle (2002 Intersky Falcon), Greatwood Hurdle (2005 Lingo), John James McManus Memorial Hurdle (2002 & 2003 Intersky Falcon), Kingwell Hurdle (2003 Rhinestone Cowboy), Paddy Power Champion INH Flat Race (2005 Refinement), Paddy Power Gold Cup (2006 Exotic Dancer), Punchestown Champion Four-Year-Old Hurdle (2002 Quazar), Reynoldstown Chase (2003 Keen Leader), Swinton Handicap Hurdle (2002 Intersky Falcon), Tommy Whittle Chase (2003 Keen Leader), Tripleprint Gold Cup (1999 Legal Right), Totesport Becher Chase (2003 Clan Royal), Totesport Silver Cup (2000 Legal Right), Totesport Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle (2002 Native Emperor), Welsh National (2002 Mini Sensation) Number of Winners (1995/96-2006/07): 18; 17; 32; 38; 44; 58; 113; 114; 102; 96; 105; 126 Wins this Season: 72

Winning Jockey: Anthony Peter McCoy Date of Birth: 04/05/74 First Winner: Thurles, 26/03/92 (First winner in Britain: 07/09/94, Exeter, Chickabiddy) Apprenticeship: Four years with Jim Bolger. Cheltenham Festival Wins: (19) Grand Annual Chase (1996 Kibreet, 1998 Edredon Bleu), Irish Independent Arkle Chase (1997 Or Royal, 1998 Champleve, 2004 Well Chief), Smurfit Champion Hurdle (1997 Make A Stand, 2006 Brave Inca), Tote Gold Cup (1997 Mr Mulligan), Cathcart Chase (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2002 Royal Auclair), Pertemps Final (1998 Unsinkable Boxer), Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle (1998 Blowing Wind), Gerrard Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (1999 Hors La Loi III), Mildmay of Flete Challenge Cup Hcap Chase (1999 Majadou), Queen Mother Champion Chase (2000 Edredon Bleu), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (2003 Liberman), Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase (2006 Reveillez), Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Black Jack Ketchum, 2007 Wichita Lineman) Leading Rider at The Festival: 1997 (3), 1998 (5). Other major wins: AIG Europe Champion Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Ballymore Properties “Classic” Nov Hdle (2007 Wichita Lineman), Cleeve Hurdle (2003 Classified), Challow Hurdle (2001 Classified, 2006 Wichita Lineman), December Festival Hurdle (2005 Brave Inca), Feltham Novices’ Chase (2005 Darkness), Fighting Fifth Hurdle (2006 Straw Bear), Finale Juvenile Hurdle (2004 Phar Bleu), First National Gold Cup H’cap Chase (2000 Upgrade, 2001 Wahiba Sands), Game Spirit Chase (2002 Lady Cricket), Hatton’s Grace Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Henry VIII Novices’ Chase (1998 Dines), King George VI Chase (2002 Best Mate), Kingwell Hurdle (2007 Straw Bear), Letheby & Christopher Cotswold Chase (1999 Cyfor Malta, 2007 Exotic Dancer), Long Distance Hurdle (1999 Galant Moss, 2003 Deano’s Beano, 2004 Baracouda), Long Walk Hurdle (2002 Deano’s Beeno, 2004 Baracouda), Mildmay & Cazalet Hcap Chase (1999 Eudipe), Rehearsal Chase (1996 Belmont King), Paddy Power Gold Cup (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Lady Cricket, 2001Shooting Light, 2006 Exotic Dancer), Peterborough Chase (2005 Impek), Powers Gold Cup (2005 Like-A-Butterfly), Rendlesham Hurdle (2003 Deano’s Beano), Ritz Club Ascot Chase (2003 Tiutchev), Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase (2000 Upgrade, 2003 Tarxien), Scottish Champion Hurdle (2005 Genghis), Scottish Grand National (1997 Belmont King), Sunderlands Imperial Cup (2003 Korelo), Tripleprint Gold Cup Chase (1998 Northern Starlight), Tote Gold Trophy (2002 Copeland) Aintree Festival Wins: Mumm Melling Chase (1996 Viking Flagship), Glenlivet Anniversary Hurdle (1996 Zabadi, 1999 Hors La Loi III), Barton & Guestier Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Fataliste), John Smith’s Top Novices Hurdle (2006 Straw Bear), John Hughes Trophy Chase (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Northern Starlight), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (1998 Boss Doyle, 2005 Like-A-Butterfly), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Unsinkable Boxer, 2006 Black Jack Ketchum), Martell Aintree Hurdle (1998 Pridwell), Martell Cognac Handicap Hurdle (1996 Top Spin, 2003 Carlovent), Betfair Bowl Chase (2004 Tiutchev, 2007 Exotic Dancer), Martell Maghull Novices’ Chase (2004 Well Chief), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (2006 Foreman) Winners 1994/5-2006/07: 74; 175; 189; 253; 186; 245; 191; 289; 257; 209; 199; 178; 184; Wins this season: 99

SECOND RACE RESULT

1.25 CLUB 16-24 NOVICES’ CHASE
£20,000 guaranteed, 3m 1/2f Old Course, For 5yo+ Weights 10st 13lb Penalties after April 28, 2007, a winner of a Class 3 to 6 chase 5lb; of 2 chases or of a Class 1 or 2 chase 8lb Allowances mares 7lb Entries 23 pay £100 Penalty value 1st £12,526; 2nd £3,700; 3rd £1,850; 4th £926; 5th £462; 6th £232

1 ALBERTAS RUN (IRE) (Trevor Hemmings) Jonjo O'Neill 6-11-04 Tony McCoy 7/2
2 SIZING AUSTRALIA (IRE) (Alan Potts) Henry De Bromhead IRE 5-10-13 Mark Darcy 12/1
3 ITSMYBOY (IRE) (David Johnson) David Pipe 7-11-07bt Timmy Murphy 7/2
4 OPERA DE COEUR (FR) (The Hon Mrs A Heber-Percy) Henry Daly 5-10-13 Richard Johnson
F3 out WILLYANWOODY (IRE) (Maggie Findlay & Paul Barber) Paul Nicholls 6-11-04 Ruby Walsh 2/1f
P NICHE MARKET (IRE) (G Regan) Bob Buckler 6-10-13 Daryl Jacob
P MOKUJIN (FR) (A Fear) Colin Tizzard 7-10-13 Joe Tizzard
P ONIZ TIPTOES (IRE) (Drawn2win.co.uk Partnership) John Wainwright 6-11-07v Richard Tierney
P THE REAL DEAL (IRE) (Jane Williams) Nick Williams 6-10-13 Philip Carberry

9 ran
Distances: 1 1/4, dist, 21
Breeding: b g Accordion - Holly Grove Lass (Le Moss)
Breeder: Oliver & Salome Brennan
Totes: Wins: £4.60 Places: £.70; £2.80; £1.70 Exacta: £51.30

Winning Trainer: JONJO O’NEILL Born: April 13, 1952 Based: Jackdaws Castle, Gloucestershire Career: former National Hunt jockey Cheltenham Festival Wins (14): Pertemps Final (1991 Danny Connors, 2003 Inching Closer, 2004 Creon); National Hunt Chase (1995 Front Line, 2002 Rith Dubh, 2003 Sudden Shock, 2004 Native Emperor, 2007 Butler’s Cabin); Vincent O’Brien County H’cap Hurdle (2000 Master Tern), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2003 Spectroscope), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift), Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Black Jack Ketchum, 2007 Wichita Lineman), Christie’s Foxhunter Chase (2007 Drombeag) Aintree Festival wins: Betfair Bowl (2007 Exotic Dancer), John Smith’s Anniversary 4-Y-O Novices’ Hurdle (2002 Quazar), John Smith’s Extra Smooth Handicap Hurdle (2002 Intersky Falcon), John Smith’s Topham Chase (2003 Clan Royal), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Iris’s Gift, 2006 Black Jack Ketchum), John Smith’s Liverpool Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift), S&N Aintree Hurdle (2004 Rhinestone Cowboy) Other Big Race Wins: Ballymore Properties Champion Stayers’ Hurdle (2004 Rhinestone Cowboy), Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (2005 Black Jack Ketchum), Challow Hurdle (2002 Coolnagorna, 2006 Wichita Lineman), Christmas Hurdle (2002 & 2003 Intersky Falcon), Cleeve Hurdle (2006 Fire Dragon), Edward Hanmer Chase (2003 Keen Leader), Emo Oil Champion Hurdle (2003 Quazar), Fighting Fifth Hurdle (2002 Intersky Falcon), Greatwood Hurdle (2005 Lingo), John James McManus Memorial Hurdle (2002 & 2003 Intersky Falcon), Kingwell Hurdle (2003 Rhinestone Cowboy), Paddy Power Champion INH Flat Race (2005 Refinement), Paddy Power Gold Cup (2006 Exotic Dancer), Punchestown Champion Four-Year-Old Hurdle (2002 Quazar), Reynoldstown Chase (2003 Keen Leader), Swinton Handicap Hurdle (2002 Intersky Falcon), Tommy Whittle Chase (2003 Keen Leader), Tripleprint Gold Cup (1999 Legal Right), Totesport Becher Chase (2003 Clan Royal), Totesport Silver Cup (2000 Legal Right), Totesport Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle (2002 Native Emperor), Welsh National (2002 Mini Sensation) Number of Winners (1995/96-2006/07): 18; 17; 32; 38; 44; 58; 113; 114; 102; 96; 105; 126 Wins this Season: 73

Winning Jockey: Anthony Peter McCoy Date of Birth: 04/05/74 First Winner: Thurles, 26/03/92 (First winner in Britain: 07/09/94, Exeter, Chickabiddy) Apprenticeship: Four years with Jim Bolger. Cheltenham Festival Wins: (19) Grand Annual Chase (1996 Kibreet, 1998 Edredon Bleu), Irish Independent Arkle Chase (1997 Or Royal, 1998 Champleve, 2004 Well Chief), Smurfit Champion Hurdle (1997 Make A Stand, 2006 Brave Inca), Tote Gold Cup (1997 Mr Mulligan), Cathcart Chase (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2002 Royal Auclair), Pertemps Final (1998 Unsinkable Boxer), Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle (1998 Blowing Wind), Gerrard Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (1999 Hors La Loi III), Mildmay of Flete Challenge Cup Hcap Chase (1999 Majadou), Queen Mother Champion Chase (2000 Edredon Bleu), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (2003 Liberman), Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase (2006 Reveillez), Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Black Jack Ketchum, 2007 Wichita Lineman) Leading Rider at The Festival: 1997 (3), 1998 (5). Other major wins: AIG Europe Champion Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Ballymore Properties “Classic” Nov Hdle (2007 Wichita Lineman), Cleeve Hurdle (2003 Classified), Challow Hurdle (2001 Classified, 2006 Wichita Lineman), December Festival Hurdle (2005 Brave Inca), Feltham Novices’ Chase (2005 Darkness), Fighting Fifth Hurdle (2006 Straw Bear), Finale Juvenile Hurdle (2004 Phar Bleu), First National Gold Cup H’cap Chase (2000 Upgrade, 2001 Wahiba Sands), Game Spirit Chase (2002 Lady Cricket), Hatton’s Grace Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Henry VIII Novices’ Chase (1998 Dines), King George VI Chase (2002 Best Mate), Kingwell Hurdle (2007 Straw Bear), Letheby & Christopher Cotswold Chase (1999 Cyfor Malta, 2007 Exotic Dancer), Long Distance Hurdle (1999 Galant Moss, 2003 Deano’s Beano, 2004 Baracouda), Long Walk Hurdle (2002 Deano’s Beeno, 2004 Baracouda), Mildmay & Cazalet Hcap Chase (1999 Eudipe), Rehearsal Chase (1996 Belmont King), Paddy Power Gold Cup (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Lady Cricket, 2001Shooting Light, 2006 Exotic Dancer), Peterborough Chase (2005 Impek), Powers Gold Cup (2005 Like-A-Butterfly), Rendlesham Hurdle (2003 Deano’s Beano), Ritz Club Ascot Chase (2003 Tiutchev), Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase (2000 Upgrade, 2003 Tarxien), Scottish Champion Hurdle (2005 Genghis), Scottish Grand National (1997 Belmont King), Sunderlands Imperial Cup (2003 Korelo), Tripleprint Gold Cup Chase (1998 Northern Starlight), Tote Gold Trophy (2002 Copeland) Aintree Festival Wins: Mumm Melling Chase (1996 Viking Flagship), Glenlivet Anniversary Hurdle (1996 Zabadi, 1999 Hors La Loi III), Barton & Guestier Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Fataliste), John Smith’s Top Novices Hurdle (2006 Straw Bear), John Hughes Trophy Chase (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Northern Starlight), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (1998 Boss Doyle, 2005 Like-A-Butterfly), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Unsinkable Boxer, 2006 Black Jack Ketchum), Martell Aintree Hurdle (1998 Pridwell), Martell Cognac Handicap Hurdle (1996 Top Spin, 2003 Carlovent), Betfair Bowl Chase (2004 Tiutchev, 2007 Exotic Dancer), Martell Maghull Novices’ Chase (2004 Well Chief), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (2006 Foreman) Winners 1994/5-2006/07: 74; 175; 189; 253; 186; 245; 191; 289; 257; 209; 199; 178; 184; Wins this season: 100


THIRD RACE RESULT

2.00pm CLEANEVENT JUVENILE NOVICES’ HURDLE
£30,000 guaranteed, 2m 1/2f Old Course, For 3yo Weights 10st 12lb Penalties a winner pf a Class 4 hurdle 4lb; of a Class 1 to 3 hurdle 8lb Allowances fillies 7lb Entries 16 pay £140 Penalty Value 1st £17,106; 2nd £6,417; 3rd £3,213; 4th £1,692; 5th £804; 6th £402

1 FRANCHOEK (IRE) (David Mason) Alan King 3-11-02 Robert Thornton 6/5f
2 WON IN THE DARK (IRE) (Gerard Crehan) Sabrina Harty IRE 3-11-06 Shane Hassett 25/1
3 LEMON SILK (IRE) (A Helaissi) Khalil Burke 3-11-06 Paddy Brennan 14/1
4 APACHE CHANT (USA) (M Cooke) Tony Carroll 3-10-12 Graham Lee
5 PACO JACK (IRE) (Christopher Beirne) Joseph Crowley IRE 3-11-06 Barry Geraghty
6 CALLISTO MOON (B Bedford) Ian Williams 3-11-06 Seamus Durack
7 FALCON'S FIRE (IRE) (Bdc Racing Club) Anne Duffield 3-11-06 Keith Mercer
8 SAINTE KADETTE (FR) (Stuart Mercer) David Pipe 3-10-13 Tony McCoy
9 CARSON'S SPIRIT (USA) (K Hodges) Stuart Kittow 3-10-12 Daryl Jacob

9 ran
Distances: 8, 4, 8, 1/2, 8, 2, 2, 29
Breeding: ch g Trempolino (USA) - Snow House (IRE) Vacarme (USA)
Breeder: 6C Stallions Ltd
Totes: Wins: £2.20 Places: £1.30; £3.00; £2.40 Exacta: £39.40

Winning Trainer: ALAN KING Born: December 13, 1966 Based: Barbury Castle Stables, Wroughton, Wiltshire Cheltenham Festival Wins (7): William Hill National Trophy Handicap Chase (2004 Fork Lightning), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2005 Penzance, 2007 Katchit), Arkle Challenge Trophy (2006 Voy Por Ustedes, 2007 My Way De Solzen), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2006 My Way De Solzen), Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase (2007 Voy Por Ustedes) Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Anniversary 4-Y-0 Hurdle (2007 Katchit), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2002 Stromness), John Smith’s Liverpool Hurdle (2002 Spendid), John Smith’s HBLB TBA Mares’ Only NH (2005 Senorita Rumbalita), John Smith’s Champion Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (2006 Pangbourne) Big Race Wins: Bula Hurdle (1999 Relkeel), Betfair Handicap Hurdle (2006 Halcon Genelardais), Desert Orchid Chase (2006 Voy Por Ustedes), Dipper Novices’ Chase (2006 My Way De Solzen), Long Walk Hurdle (1999 Anzum, 2005 My Way De Solzen), Jim Ford Challenge Cup (2000 Spendid), Cleeve Hurdle (2004 Crystal d’Ainay), Kingmaker Novices’ Chase (2006 Voy Por Ustedes), National Spirit Hurdle (2006 My Way De Solzen), Ryman The Stationer Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Katchit, 2007 Franchoek), Coral Welsh National (2006 Halcon Genelardais) Number of Winners (1999/2000-2006/07): 27; 18; 34; 39; 47; 66; 63 Wins this Season: 27

Winning Jockey: Robert Thornton Date of birth: 14/7/78 First Winner Under Rules: K C’s Dancer (Cheltenham, October 25, 1995) Background: Joined David Nicholson as an amateur in 1995 and was crowned Champion Conditional in 1998. Cheltenham Festival wins: (12) Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Chase (King Lucifer 1997), Pertemps Final (Pharanear 1997), William Hill Trophy Handicap Chase (2004 Fork Lightning, 2005 Kelami), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2005 Penzance, 2007 Katchit), Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle (2005 Moulin Riche), Irish Independent Arkle Trophy (2006 Voy Por Ustedes, 2007 My Way De Solzen), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2006 My Way De Solzen), Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase (2007 Voy Por Ustedes), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual (2007Andreas) Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Anniversary 4-Y-0 Hurdle (2007 Katchit), Martell Foxhunters’ Chase (Blue Cheek 1997), Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle (Shankar 1997), Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2002 Stromness), Premier Convenience Stores Top Novices’ Hurdle (2004 Royal Shakespeare); John Smith’s Mares Only Nh Flat Race (2005 Senorita Rumbalita), John Smith’s Champion Standard Open NH Flat Race (2006 Pangbourne) Big Race Wins: Adonis Juvenile Hurdle (2004 Trouble At Bay), Agfa Diamond Handicap Chase (2005 Innox), Agfa Hurdle (2005 Self Defense), Bula Hurdle (2003 Rigmarole), Cleeve Hurdle (2004 Crystal D’ainay, 2007 Blazing Bailey), Desert Orchid Chase (2006 Voy Por Ustedes), Dipper Novices’ Chase (2006 My Way De Solzen), Coralpoker.com Kingmaker Novices’ Chase (1999 Flagship Uberalles, 2005 Kadount, 2006 Voy Por Ustedes), National Spirit Hurdle (My Way De Solzen), Rendlesham Hurdle (1999 Pharanear, 2005 Crystal D’ainay), Ryman The Stationer Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Katchit, 2007 Franchoek), Sporting Index Chase (2002 Famfoni), Totesport Long Walk Hurdle (2005 My Way De Solzen), Victor Chandler Chase (1999 Call Equiname), Wragg & Co Finesse Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Moneytrain, 2007 Katchit) Wins (1995/96-2006/07): 3; 30; 71; 37; 23; 40; 56; 50; 73; 97; 73; 99 Wins this Season: 36


FOURTH RACE RESULT

2.35pm PADDY POWER GOLD CUP CHASE (GRADE THREE)
£120,000 guaranteed, 2m 4 1/2f Old Course, For 4yo+ Minimum Weight 10st Penalties after November 3, a winner of a Class 3 chase 3lb; of a Class 1 or 2 chase 6lb (no penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 11st 12lb) Billyvoddan’s Handicap Mark 159 Entries 62 pay £150 Confirmed 38 pay £350 Penalty Value 1st £68,424; 2nd £25,668; 3rd £12,852; 4th £6,408; 5th £3,216; 6th £1,608

1 L'ANTARTIQUE (FR) (Mrs A Durkan) Ferdy Murphy 7-10-13 Graham Lee 13/2
2 IL DUCE (IRE) (Mrs Peter Prowting) Alan King 7-10-10b Robert Thornton 33/1
3 KNOWHERE (IRE) (Raymond Mould) Nigel Twiston-Davies 9-11-04 Paddy Brennan 10/1
4 PALARSHAN (FR) (Sumner Wellesley) Henry Daly 9-10-05p Mark Bradburne 25/1
5 PATMAN DU CHARMIL (FR) (Raymond Mould) Nigel Twiston-Davies 5-9-11b David England (5)
6 BOB HALL (IRE) (JP McManus) Jonjo O'Neill 6-10-10t Tony McCoy
7 COPSALE LAD (Swallow Partnership) Nicky Henderson 10-10-06 Mick Fitzgerald
8 CROZAN (FR) (Trevor Hemmings) Nicky Henderson 7-11-03b Barry Geraghty
9 BAMBI DE L'ORME (FR) (Mr & Mrs John Poynton) Ian Williams 7-10-07 Dominic Elsworth
10 BALLYAGRAN (IRE) (Exors of the Late Kevin O’Sullivan) Noel Meade IRE 7-10-03 Paul Carberry
11 PRIVATE BE (David & Daphne Walsh) Philip Hobbs 8-10-06 Richard Johnson
12 THREE MIRRORS (Sean Murphy) Ferdy Murphy 7-10-02 Keith Mercer
13 PONMEOATH (IRE) (Jolly Up Syndicate) Eric McNamara 7-10-08 Paddy Flood
14 BLACK HILLS (The Kingfisher Partnership) Jonathan Geake 8-10-04tp Jimmy McCarthy
15 VODKA BLEU (FR) (David Johnson) David Pipe 8-10-02p Timmy Murphy
F 2 out GRANIT JACK (FR) (John Hales) Paul Nicholls 5-10-01t ow1 Liam Heard 3/1f
P IDOLE FIRST (IRE) (D & J Racing Ltd) Venetia Williams 8-10-12 Alan O'Keeffe
P TOO FORWARD (IRE) (T Gibson & D Mathias) Carl Llewellyn 11-11-06 Philip Carberry
P BILLYVODDAN (IRE) (Trevor Hemmings) Henry Daly 8-11-12v1 Seamus Durack
P KINGS BROOK (Tony Gale) Nick Williams 7-10-09 Paul Moloney

20 ran
Distances: nk, 1 3/4, 3/4, 3, 5, 8, 1/2, 12, nk, 1/2, 3/4, 8, 18, 24
Breeding: b g Cyborg (FR) - Moomaw (Akarad (FR))
Breeder: T Picard & Phillipe de Maeseneire
Totes: Wins: £7.50 Places: £2.60; £5.40; £2.40; £5.00 Exacta: £246.30

Winning Trainer: FERDY MURPHY Trains at West Witton, Leyburn, North Yorkshire Riding career: Professional 1966-82; rode about 100 winners Date of first licence: 1990 Cheltenham Festival Wins (7): Walwyn Muir (1996 Stop The Waller, 2006 You’re Special), Elite Triumph Hurdle (1996 Paddy’s Return), Royal & SunAlliance Hurdle (1998 French Holly), National Hunt Chase (2006 Hot Weld), William Hill Trophy (2007 Joe’s Edge), Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase (2007 L’Antartique) Aintree Festival Wins include: John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (2001 Ballinclay King), John Smith’s Novices’ Handicap Chase (2005 Joes Edge), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (2007 Aces Four) Other major wins: Paddy Power Gold Cup (2007 L’Antartique), Betfred Gold Cup (2007 Hot Weld), Scottish National (2007 Hot Weld) Ballymore Properties Champion Stayers Hurdle (2005 Carlys Quest), Christmas Hurdle (1998 French Holly), Hennessy Gold Cup (1992 Sibton Abbey), Long Walk Hurdle (1997 Paddy’s Return), Prix La Barka (1999 French Holly), Rowland Meyrick Chase (2004 Truckers Tavern, 2006 Leading Man), Sporting Index Chase (2001 Paddy’s Return), Scottish Grand National (2000 Paris Pike, 2005 Joes Edge), Tolworth Hurdle (1998 French Holly), Swordlestown Cup Novice Chase (2007 Another Promise) Number of Winners (1997/98-2005/06): 27; 40; 34; 41; 68; 43; 31; 55; 45; 61 Wins this Season: 9

Winning Jockey: Graham Lee Born: December 16, 1975 Background: Irish pony-racing circuit, left school at 15 to join handler Noel Meade. Five rides for Meade then joined Dessie McDonogh in County Meath. Ger Lyons then obtained Lee a position with Mary Reveley when he was 17. Began riding out for Bill Haigh, before joining Malcolm Jefferson. He was stable jockey for Howard Johnson between 2003-2006, and now rides predominately for trainer Ferdy Murphy. Trains with Middlesbrough football club to keep fit. First Winner: Navan, November 7, 1992, Blushing Pearl Cheltenham Festival Wins (4): Letheby & Christopher Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2005 Arcalis), Royal & Sunalliance Novices’ Hurdle (2005 No Refuge), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2005 Inglis Drever), Jewson Novices’ Handicap Chase (2007 L’Antartique) Leading Rider at The Festival: 2005 (3). Big Race Wins: Paddy Power Gold Cup (2007 L’Antartique), Betfred Gold Cup (2007 Hot Weld) Ascot Hurdle (2005 No Refuge); Ballymore Properties Long Distance Hurdle (2005 Inglis Drever), Charlie Hall Chase (2003 Ballybough Rasher; 2004 Grey Abbey); Elite Hurdle (2005 Royal Shakespeare); Finesse Juvenile Hurdle (2005 Akilak); John Smith’s West Yorkshire Hurdle (2003 Gralmano, 2005 Inglis Drever) Leamington Novices’ Hurdle (2004 Inglis Drever, 2005 No Refuge); Peterborough Chase (2006 Racing Demon), Peter Marsh Chase (2005 Lord Transcend); Pillar Propery Chase (2005 Grey Abbey); Prestige Novices’ Hurdle (2004 Royal Rosa); Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (2006 LeadingMan); Scottish Grand National (2004 Grey Abbey); Stanleybet Handicap Hurdle (2005 Coat Of Honour); Tote Exacta Premier Kelso Hurdle (2003 Covent Garden), totesport Classic Chase (2004 Southern Star); Towton Novices’ Chase (2007 Heltornic); Winter Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Inglis Drever); Swordlestown Cup Novice Chase (2007 Another Promise) Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Beefeater Restaurants Handicap Hurdle (2004 Zibeline), John Smith’s Grand National (2004 Amberleigh House), Betfair Bowl (2005 Grey Abbey), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (2007 Aces Four) Number of Wins (1993/94-2006/07): 6; 20; 11; 16; 21; 24; 28; 25; 58; 66; 94; 100; 108; 89; Wins This Season: 45


FIFTH RACE RESULT

3.10pm LOMBARD PROPERTIES HANDICAP HURDLE (LISTED)
£50,000 guaranteed, 3m 1 1/2f Old Course, For 4yo+ Minimum Weight 10st Penalties after November 10, each race won 6lb Blazing Bailey’s Handicap Mark 163 Entries 32 pay £240 Penalty Value 1st £28,510; 2nd £10,695; 3rd £5,355; 4th £2,670; 5th £1,340; 6th £670

1 SONNYANJOE (IRE) (Anthony Byrne) Tom Hogan IRE 9-10-00tp Paddy Brennan 5/2
2 LYES GREEN (P Gardner) Oliver Sherwood 6-10-00p Dominic Elsworth 13/2
3 RASLAN (D Reid) David Pipe 4-10-00v Timmy Murphy 12/1
4 PRINCE DE BERSY (FR) (Chris Grant & Carl Turpin) David Pipe 4-9-07 Felix De Giles (7)
5 PRESTBURY KNIGHT (Cheltenham Racing Ltd) Nigel Twiston-Davies 7-9-09t David England (5)
6 JUVEIGNEUR (FR) (Trevor Hemmings) Nicky Henderson 10-10-10 Mick Fitzgerald
7 GOLD GUN (USA) (Tristar) Alison Thorpe 5-10-00b Seamus Durack
8 BLAZING BAILEY (Three Line Whip) Alan King 5-11-12 Robert Thornton 9/4f
P ASHWELL (IRE) (Mrs Robert Bingley) Chris Bealby 8-9-11 Tom Messenger (3)

9 ran
Distances: 3 1/2, 6, 5, 15, 7, 1 3/4, 1
Breeding: b g Roselier (FR) - Carrabawn (Buckskin(FR))
Breeder: T Broderick
Totes: Wins: £3.10 Places: £1.60; £2.10; £2.90 Exacta: £20.20

Winning Trainer: TOM HOGAN Based: Fattheen, Nenagh, County Tipperary, Ireland Big Race wins on Flat: Gladness Stakes (2006 Common World), Grosser Preis der West LB (2006 Common World) Big Race Wins over Jumps: Lombard Properties Handicap Hurdle (2007 Sonnyandjoe), Bewleys Hotels & Europen Breeders National Hunt Fillies Premier Bumper (2007 Native Royal) Number of Winners in Britain (2002/03-2006/07): 1; 0; 1; 1; 1; Wins in Britain This Season: 3

Winning Jockey: Paddy J Brennan Born: Ardrahan, Galway, April 13, 1981 Riding Weight: 9st 7lb Background: Spent one summer at Gerry Stack’s Co. Kildare yard, aged 14. Apprenticed to Jim Bolger for five years, riding eight winners. Secured a position with Paul Nicholls, before moving to Philip Hobbs. Appointed as retained rider for the powerful Howard Johnson/Graham Wylie team in May 2006. Joined Nigel Twiston-Davies in June 2007. Cheltenham Festival Wins (2): Fred Winter Juvenile Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (2006 Shamayoun), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2007 Paddy Brennan) First Winner: Ivory Isle (Derrinstown Stud Apprentice Handicap, Gowran Park, August 12, 1998) First Winner after riding out 3lb claim: French Executive (Sky Bet Sussex National, Plumpton, November 21, 2004) Last Winner with 3lb claim: Rollo (williamhill.com Novices’ Handicap Hurdle, Exeter, November 19, 2004) Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Citroen C4 Picasso Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2007 Tidal Bay), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (Ashley Brook 2005), John Smith’s Extra Smooth Handicap Hurdle (2006 Wellbeing) Other Big Race Wins: Grand Sefton Handicap Chase (2005 Hakim); intercasino.co.uk Molyneux Novices’ Chase (2006 Lennon); Sea Pigeon Handicap Hurdle (2002 Benbyas); Wensleydale Juvenile Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Degas Art) Charlie Hall Chase (2007 Ollie Magern) Number of Wins (2000/01-2006/07): 3; 9; 15; 19; 67* (*Champion Conditional Jockey); 60; 80 Wins This Season: 41




SIXTH RACE RESULT

3.40pm SERVO COMPUTER SERVICES TROPHY (GRADE THREE)
£60,000 Guaranteed, 3m 3 1/2f Old Course, For 4yo+ Minimum Weight 10st Penalties after November 10, each chase won 5lb L’Ami’s handicap mark 158 Entries 28 pay £56 pay £224 Penalty value 1st £34,212; 2nd £12,834; 3rd £6,426; 4th £3,204; 5th £1,608; 6th £804

1 SIR REMBRANDT (IRE) (A Hordle) Victor Dartnall 11-10-02 James White (3) 15/2
2 CORNISH SETT (IRE) (Peter Hart) Paul Nicholls 8-10-12b Mick Fitzgerald 10/1
3 L'AMI (FR) (JP McManus) Francois Doumen FR 8-11-12 Tony McCoy 9/2
4 JAUNTY TIMES (J Sumner) Henry Daly 7-10-04 Richard Johnson
5 SIMON (Mercy Rimell) John Spearing 8-11-06 Andrew Thornton
6 BOB BOB BOBBIN (Sarah Tizzard) Colin Tizzard 8-10-08 Joe Tizzard 3/1f
7 BARON WINDRUSH (The Double Octagon Partnership) Nigel Twiston-Davies 9-10-11 Paddy Brennan
8 L'AVENTURE (FR) (C Harriman) Paul Nicholls 8-10-01t ow4 Liam Heard (3)
P COMPLY OR DIE (IRE) (David Johnson) David Pipe 8-10-06 Timmy Murphy
P D'ARGENT (IRE) (Nigel Bunter) Alan King 10-10-09 Robert Thornton

10 ran
Distances: 13, 1/2, 2 1/2, 10, 6, 1, 12
Breeding: b g Mandalus - Sue’s Lady (Le Moss)
Breeder: F Warren
Totes: Wins: £10.50 Places: £2.90; £3.50; £1.90 Exacta: £120.20


Winning Trainer: VICTOR DARTNALL Born: November 2, 1948 Based: Higher Shutscombe Farm, Charles, Brayford, Barnstaple, Devon Date Of First Trainer’s Licence: 1998 Big Race Wins: Servo Computer Services Trophy (2007 Sir Rembrandt), December Novices’ Chase (2003 Lord Sam); Ellier Developments Novice Chase (2004 Lord Sam); totesportsportcasino.com Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (2005 Karanja)Number of Wins (2001/2-2006/07): 13; 10; 7; 7; 17; 21; Wins this Season: 10

Winning Jockey: James White Age: 23 Big Race Wins Include: Servo Compuer Services Trophy (2007 Sir Rembrandt) First winner under rules: Ludlow, January 9, 2004, Dream Falcon (Amateur Jockeys’ Association Amateur Riders’ Novices’ Handicap Hurdle). First Cheltenham winner: Sir Rembrandt, November 17, 2007, Servo Compuer Services Trophy Number of Wins (2003/04-2006/07): 4; 3; 4; 18; Wins This Season: 12




LEADING TRAINER STANDINGS AT THE END OF DAY TWO

TRAINER 1st 2nd 3rd
Jonjo O’Neill 2 - -
Paul Nicholls 1 2 -
Nigel Twiston-Davies 1 1 1
Gordon Elliott IRE 1 1 -
Alan King 1 1 -
Tom Hogan IRE 1 - 1
Enda Bolger IRE 1 - -
Victor Dartnall 1 - -
Henrietta Knight 1 - -
Eric McNamara IRE 1 - -
Ferdy Murphy 1 - -
Philip Hobbs - 1 1
Henry de Bromhead IRE - 1 -
Sabrina Harty - 1 -
Tom McCourt IRE - 1 -
Gary Moore - 1 -
Simon Sherwood - 1 -
Alison Thorpe - 1 -
David Pipe - - 4
David Broad - - 1
Khalil Burke - - 1
Francois Doumen FR - - 1
Brendan Duke - - 1
Philip Rothwell IRE - - 1

LEADING JOCKEY STANDINGS AT THE END OF DAY TWO

JOCKEY 1st 2nd 3rd
Tony McCoy 2 - 1
Graham Lee 2 - -
Robert Thornton 1 1 -
Ruby Walsh 1 1 -
Paddy Brennan 1 - 2
Joey Elliott 1 - -
Tony Evans 1 - -
Mr J T McNamara 1 - -
Ms Katie Walsh 1 - -
James White 1 - -
Richard Johnson - 1 1
Paul Carberry - 1 -
Davy Condon - 1 -
Mark Darcy - 1 -
Dominic Elsworth - 1 -
David England - 1 -
Mick Fitzgerald - 1 -
Shane Hassett - 1 -
Jamie Moore - 1 -
Mr Brian Toomey - 1 -
Timmy Murphy - - 3
Kevin Clarke - - 1
Kevin Coleman - - 1
Noel Fehily - - 1
Shane Jackson - - 1
Mr Richard O’Sullivan - - 1

THE VALUE BETTING COLUMN every Saturday

Lingfield, Saturday, November 17, 2007

3.00pm £7,300 LINGFIELD PARK FOR PARTIES HANDICAP 1m4f

GOING: STANDARD

CODEBREAKER EVERY WEEK ON WWW.RACENEWSONLINE.CO.UK

CHELTENHAM, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2007

2.35pm £120,000 PADDY POWER GOLD CUP 2m 4.5f

The 2006/07 jump season is now centre stage and the first major handicap of the campaign, the Grade Three £120,000 Paddy Power Gold Cup, over two miles, four and a half furlongs, takes place at Cheltenham's Open Meeting on Saturday, November17.

The clearest trend in the Paddy Power Gold Cup concerns age. Since 1985, all bar one of the victors in the contest has been aged between six and nine - the exception was the Pipe-trained five-year-old Cyfor Malta in 1998.

This means we can immediately discount the 11-year-old Too Forward and the veteran chaser Copsdale Lad. Well fancied favourite Granit Jack also falls at the first hurdle, as the gelding is only five.

19 of the last 22 victors in the Paddy Power Gold Cup had either won on their seasonal debut or come into the race on the back of just one previous run that season.

Kerry National winner Ponmeoth could pay for his summer exertions, and is discounted, as can the fellow Irish challenger Ballyagran. Patman Du Charmil and Kings Brook have also been kept busy throughout the summer, and can also be ruled out.

Only four horses in the past 21 years did not finish in the first three on their last outing before Cheltenham. Billyvoddan, Crozan, Bambi De L’Orme, Private Be, Black Hills, Three Mirrors, and Vodka Bleu were all less than impressive on their most recent start, and can therefore bite the dust.

Turning to starting prices, fancied horses definitely have the upper hand with only three horses having been returned at odds greater than 12/1 in the last 22 runnings.

Based on the sponsor’s latest prices, this means we can say goodbye to outsiders Idole First (16/1), Il Duce (33/1) and Palarshan (20/1).

This leaves the well-fancied trio of Knowhere, L’Antartique and Bob Hall.

Despite having ran well twice at Cheltenham, Jonjo O’Neill’s Bob Hall has never won round Prestbury Park, and so the six-year-old can be discounted.

Both of the remaining selections have sound claims, but the preference is for the Nigel Twiston-Davies trained KNOWHERE, who ran a cracking race over the same course and distance four weeks ago, and whose trainer was successful in this race in 1992.

ENDS

For old articles (from 1st March 2000) go to the Newslink Archive

©Racenews
designed and produced by Racenews Internet Services