Saturday, September 11, 2004

BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER DAY
RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE
DONCASTER, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2004

Steven Clarke, Doncaster’s racecourse manager, commented: “It has been a brilliant festival and it was fantastic for an Australian rider to win his first classic here at Doncaster.

“The crowds have been up every day and we have seen some outstanding racing all week.”

CROWDS UP ALL WEEK AT DONCASTER AND TODAY’S ATTENDANCE IS EXPECTED TO BE GOOD

Friday
For the third day running at the betfair.com St Leger Festival, the attendance increased, with the figure of 10,200 being 100 up on SGB Champagne Stakes Day last year.

Steven Clarke, racecourse manager at Doncaster, said: “It is very pleasing to see the crowd up three days in a row, and we were also delighted to see the drop of rain to ease the ground slightly.

“We are hoping for the weather to be kind tomorrow, and it would be nice to think we could top the 25,500 who attended last year’s St Leger. Advance sales have been very encouraging, so things are looking good.”

Thursday
The GNER Ladies Day attendance came to 14,000 - 1,000 up on the corresponding day last year.

Steven Clarke, racecourse manager at Doncaster, said: “We are very happy with the increase, and there was a massive turn out for the ‘Best Dressed Lady’.

“Last year we had between 40 and 50, whereas this time around there were more than 200. It was a bit of a rugby scrum, and we’ll organise it better next year.”

Wednesday
The first-day attendance at the betfair.com St Leger Festival - Thoroughbred Breeders’ Day - was 8,500 - 700 up on last year.

Steven Clarke, racecourse manager at Doncaster, expressed himself “delighted” with the increased crowd.

He said: “With Frankie Dettori riding four winners, there were a lot of happy faces - he is very popular up here.”

Responding to the fact that five of the seven races were run in course-record time, Clarke added: “I think that goes to show that the ground is near perfect. If it was firm the horses would not let themselves down, and we are very happy with the condition of the track.”



INITIAL BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER QUOTES

Kerrin McEvoy, who made all in today’s betfair.com St Leger on Rule Of Law, said: “I’m really thrilled. The talk has been of the St Leger all week and it is nice to get the job done.”

Asked how this success equated with his Melbourne Cup win, the Australian jockey said: “It is right up there - this is a classic in a foreign country for me - it is unbelievable, topping up a great first season here.

“I would like to thank the Godolphin team for giving me a chance and Sheikh Mohammed for bringing me over. “

He was the first Australian jockey to win the St Leger since Ron Hutchinson on Intermezzo in 1969.

Race Four: betfair.com St Leger Stakes

COOPER PRAISES McEVOY

Diana Cooper, representing the Godolphin team, praised Aussie ace Kerrin McEvoy for “a brilliant ride” on Rule of Law to win the betfair.com St Leger.

“That was perfection,” she declared. “Kerrin deserves all the acclaim that is coming his way. He has adapted so well to British racing, and to achieve what he has done in his first season in Europe is absolutely amazing. He says he doesn’t want the feeling he has just now to ever end, and I don’t blame him.”

“He set an even pace out there and quickened the tempo up the straight. He knows the horse so well, and he kept something in reserve.

“The plan is to keep Rule of Law in training as a four-year-old, and he will come back down in distance.

“There were obviously slight doubts about the trip and we also had a lot of respect for Quiff, but Rule of Law is very honest and he always gives everything he’s got.”


Fourth race - betfair.com St Leger

AUSSIE RULES IN BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER

Aussie ace Kerrin McEvoy kissed the betfair.com St Leger trophy and, donning the famous cap, declared “This is Heaven!”

McEvoy, the 23-year-old from the fishing hamlet of Streaky Bay, six miles outside Adelaide, described his first ride in the historic Doncaster classic as “up there with my 2000 Melbourne Cup triumph on Brew.”

This has been an unbelievable first season for McEvoy as second jockey to Frankie Dettori in the Godolphin operation, and the youngster, who gave Rule of Law the most fantastic ride from the front, said that everything went like a dream in the race.

He said: ““It is very blustery out there and I didn’t want to make the running, but they left me in front, so I decided it would be best to get him settled and into a rhythm.

“We quickened up the tempo in the straight and two furlongs out my horse put his head down and fought.

“I heard Kieren (Fallon) coming on Quiff and, though that winning post seemed an awful long way away and I was fast running out of petrol, Rule of Law was not going to let them past.”

Reflecting on his first golden summer in Europe, McEvoy, who won a Group One a race at Baden-Baden only last Sunday, added: “It’s gone better than I could have imagined.

“The first half of the season was tough, trying to get established, but things have really taken off in the second half and I have learned so much from working with such a wonderful team at Godolphin.

“Finishing second in the Derby at Epsom was wonderful, but winning a classic in a foreign country has to be the tops. Doncaster is a lot like Flemington, though we don’t have Rose Hill, and there is so much variety with your tracks that I soon found out that you need to be a horseman as well as a jockey over here.

“I always felt that Rule of Law would stay the Leger distance, though I was not over-confident and knew that I could not afford to try and blitz them.

“I am on such a high, but I have just heard that Doyen has finished second last in Ireland. That is simply unbelievable.”



FOURTH RACE RESULT
3.15pm BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER
A1, Group One, £400,000 Total Prize Fund. For 3yo, entire colts & fillies, , 1m 6f 132 yds. Weights: colts 9st; fillies 8st 11lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £240,000; 2nd: £92,000; 3rd: £46,000; 4th: £22,000

1) RULE OF LAW (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor t3-9-00 Kerrin McEvoy [9] 3/1 Jt Fav
2) QUIFF (Khalid Abdulla) Sir Michael Stoute 3-8-11 Kieren Fallon [4] 3/1 Jt Fav
3) TYCOON (Sue Magnier) Aidan O'Brien IRE t3-9-00 Darryll Holland [6] 6/1
4) MARAAHEL (Hamdan Al Maktoum) Sir Michael Stoute 3-9-00 Richard Hills [5]
5) MIKADO (Sue Magnier & Michael Tabor) Aidan O'Brien IRE 3-9-00 Jimmy Fortune [7]
6) DARSALAM (Turan Stables) Arslangirey Shavuyez CZE 3-9-00 Stanley Chin [10]
7) GO FOR GOLD (Michael Tabor & Sue Magnier) Aidan O'Brien IRE 3-9-00 Seb Sanders [1]
8) LET THE LION ROAR (Neil Jones) John Dunlop v3-9-00 Richard Quinn [2]
9) FRANK SONATA (Adams, Flynn, Arnold) Mick Quinlan 3-9-00 Ryan Moore [8]

9 ran Non-Runner: Albinus (Ground)
Time: 3 min 06.29 sec Dist: hd, 1.5, 1, hd, 1.5, 3, 6, nk
Breeder: Robert & Ben Sangster
Breeding: b c Kingmambo (USA) - Crystal Crossing (IRE) (Royal Academy (USA))
Tote Win: £4.30 Places: £1.80; £2.00; £2.20 Exacta: £18.60

Winning trainer:-Name: bin Suroor, Saeed Trains at Newmarket for Godolphin, the racing entity of Sheikh Mohammed, whose horses winter in Dubai and race worldwide. British Classic wins: (11) 2,000 Guineas (1996 Mark of Esteem, 1999 Island Sands), 1,000 Guineas (1998 Cape Verdi, 2002 Kazzia), Vodafone Oaks (1995 Moonshell; 2002 Kazzia); Vodafone Derby (1995 Lammtarra); betfair.com St Leger (1995 Classic Cliche; 1998 Nedawi; 1999 Mutafaweq, 2004 Rule Of Law) Other major wins include: Irish Derby (1994 Balanchine), Irish 2000 Guineas (2000 Bachir), Irish Champion Stakes (1994 Cezanne; 1998 Swain, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), Irish St Leger (1998 & 1999 Kayf Tara), French 2000 Guineas (1995 Vettori; 2000 Bachir; 2001 Noverre); Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (1995 Lammtarra, 2001 Sakhee, 2002 Marienbard); Breeders Cup Turf (2001 Fantastic Light), Prix d’Ispahan (1996 Halling, 2002 Best Of The Bests), Eclipse (1995,1996 Halling; 1998 Daylami; 2004 Refuse To Bend); Juddmonte International Stakes (1995 & 1996 Halling, 2001 Sakhee, 2004 Sulamani), Ascot Gold Cup (1996 Classic Cliche; 1998 Kayf Tara, 2000 Kayf Tara), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1995 Lammtarra; 1997 & 1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami, 2004 Doyen), Nunthorpe Stakes (1995 So Factual), Derby Italiano (1998 Central Park), Lockinge Stakes (1998 Cape Cross; 2000 Aljabr), Prix Jean Prat (1998 Almutawakel), Prix de la Salamandre (1998 Aljabr), Man O’ War Stakes (1998 Daylami; 2000 Fantastic Light), Lockinge Stakes (1998 Cape Cross, 1999 Fly To The Stars, 2000 Aljabr), Great Voltigeur Stakes (1998 Sea Wave), Vodafone Coronation Cup (1999 Daylami, 2001 Mutafaweq), Sussex Stakes (1999 Aljabr, 2001 Noverre) Stanley Leisure Sprint Cup (1999 Diktat), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1996 Mark Of Esteem, 1999 Dubai Millennium, 2001 Summoner), Prix Jacques le Marois (1999 Dubai Millennium, 2000 Muhtathir), Prince of Wales’s Stakes (1998 Faithful Son, 2000 Dubai Millennium, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), Hong Kong Cup (2000 Fantastic Light), Man O'War Stakes (2000 Fantastic Light), Canadian International Stakes (2000 Mutafaweq), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1999 Kayf Tara), Gran Premio Del Jockey Club (2001 Kutub), Prix du Moulin de Longchamp (2001 Slickly), Grosser Dallmayr Preis (2001 Kutub), Tattersalls Gold Cup (2001 Fantastic Light), Premio Vittorio Di Capua (2001 and 2002 Slickly), Flower Bowl Invitational Stakes (2002 Kazzia), Gazelle Handicap (2002 Imperial Gesture), Beldame Stakes (2002 Imperial Gesture), Deutschlandpreis (2000 Mutafaweq, 2002 Marienbard), American Oaks (2002 Jilbab), Stephen Foster Handicap (2002 Street Cry), Singapore Airlines International Cup (2002 Grandera), Grosser Bugatti Preis (2002 Marienbard, 2003 Mamool), Dubai World Cup (2000 Dubai Millennium, 2002 Street Cry, 2003 Moon Ballad), Dubai Sheema Classic (2003 Sulamani), Queen Anne Stakes (2003 Dubai Destination), Gran Premio di Milano (2003 Leadership), Arlington Million (2003 Sulamani), Prix Vermeille (2003 Mezzo Soprano), Turf Classic Invitational (2003 Sulamani), Preis Von Europa (2001 Kutub, 2003 Mamool) Wins in a season (1995-2003) 14:48:41:38:41:17:24:21:23 Wins this season: 84 First Goodwood Win: Tamayaz (Vodapage Conditions Stakes, July 29, 1995) First Winner In England: Classic Cliche (Dante Stakes, May 17, 1995, York)

Winning jockey:-Name: Kerrin McEvoy Born: October 24, 1980 Background: Father Philip was a jockey - he hails from the fishing hamlet of Streaky Bay, six hours west of Adelaide in Australia. He has partnered over 500 winners worldwide, has ridden in Dubai for the past two winters and also in Hong Kong. Appointed number two rider behind Frankie Dettori for Godolphin in March, 2004. Classic Wins (1): betfair.com St Leger (2004 Rule Of Law) Big Race Victories: Melbourne Cup (2000 Brew - second-youngest jockey to ever win Australia's premier race), Grosser Preis Von Baden (2004 Warrsan) First Ride In Britain: Realism, Haydock, Saturday, May 1, 2004, Freephone Stanleybet Flat vJump Jockeys Handicap, 3rd First Winner In Britain: Destination Dubai, Haydock, Saturday, May 1, 2004, stanleybet.com Maiden Stakes First Classic Ride In Britain: Sundrop, Sunday, May 2, 2004, Newmarket, UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas (2nd) Wins This Season: 36

RULE OF LAW (USA) - BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER WINNER
3 b c Kingmambo (USA) - Crystal Crossing (IRE) (Royal Academy (USA))
Owner: Godolphin Breeder: Robert & Ben Sangster
Form: 3113-22411 Trainer: Saeed bin Suroor Jockey: Kerrin McEvoy
Rule Of Law
Bred by the late Robert Sangster and his son Ben, Rule Of Law is the third foal of Crystal Crossing, winner of the Listed Rose Bowl Stakes at Newbury in 1996. Last year Rule Of Law ran in Sheikh Mohammed’s colours and was trained by David Loder. He made his debut at Sandown in June, 2003, finishing third to Grand Rich King in a seven-furlong maiden. Rule Of Law, fitted with a visor, then was triumphant in a similar race at York in July. He was stepped up to Listed company in the Acomb Stakes at the same course and distance and proved a head too strong for Aidan O’Brien’s Celtic Cat. His final juvenile start came in the Group Two Royal Lodge Stakes at Ascot at the end of September when he ran well to be third to Snow Ridge. He was transferred to Godolphin at the end of the season and made his debut for trainer Saeed bin Suroor in the Group Two totesport Dante Stakes, over an extended 10 furlongs, at York on May 12, running on well to be second, half a length behind North Light. The same two horses then filled the same positions in the Vodafone Derby at Epsom just under a month later over an additional furlong and a half, Rule Of Law again staying on well and this time going down by a length and a half. The Kingmambo colt then travelled to Ireland to compete in the Budweiser Irish Derby at the Curragh on June 27, when beaten two lengths in fourth behind home-based winner Grey Swallow. Some breeding experts have questioned whether Rule Of Law will stay the extended mile and six furlongs of the betfair.com St Leger. However, the way in which he stayed on gamely to win the Group Two Daily Telegraph Great Voltigeur Stakes at York in the middle of August by two and a half lengths from Let The Lion Roar over a mile and a half would indicate that he has every chance of getting the longer trip. Trainer Saeed bin Suroor certainly foresaw no problems over the Leger distance and he proved right with the colt making all.

Race Record: Runs: 9; 1st: 4; 2nd: 2; 3rd: 2 Win and Place Prize Money: £721,261

Godolphin
Godolphin is the racing entity of Sheikh Mohammed, other members of the ruling Maktoum family of Dubai and friends, and its aim is to prepare horses in Dubai during the winter to gain the advantage when challenging for major races worldwide. The experiment began on a small scale in the winter of 1992, with horses enjoying the benefits of the warm climate before arriving in Britain for the 1993 season. The Godolphin operation was properly established in 1994, with Hilal Ibrahim as trainer, when Balanchine won the Vodafone Oaks and Irish Derby. The following year Saeed bin Suroor was appointed as the official trainer. When flown over from Dubai, the main base, in late April, the horses are stabled at Godolphin Stables, Moulton Paddocks and Highfield Stables in Newmarket. In 1999 and 2000, Godolphin’s two-year-olds were housed at the former Evry racecourse in France under the care of David Loder, who in 2001 relocated to Godolphin Stables in Newmarket, although 2003 was his last year as Godolphin’s juvenile handler. Godolphin’s famous blue colours have been carried to victory in every British classic bar the Vodafone Derby, although Saeed bin Suroor did train Lammtarra to win the premier classic for Saeed Maktoum Al Maktoum in 1995 and Godolphin claims this success. The British Godolphin classic successes so far have been UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas (1996 Mark Of Esteem, 1999 Island Sands), UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas (1998 Cape Verdi, 2002 Kazzia), Vodafone Oaks (1994 Balanchine, 1995 Moonshell, 2002 Kazzia) and St Leger (1995 Classic Cliche, 1998 Nedawi, 1999 Mutafaweq). Daylami led an historic 1-2-3 in the 1998 Coral-Eclipse, the first time that the same owner and trainer had the first three in a British Group One, and the Godolphin ambitions, other than landing the Vodafone Derby, include taking the American Triple Crown series, winning the Japan Cup, Melbourne Cup and capturing the World Series Racing Championship which was achieved in 1999, the inaugural year, by Daylami, Fantastic Light (2000 and 2001) and Grandera (2002). Godolphin’s tally of 110 Group/Grade One wins includes the Dubai World Cup (1999 Almutawakel, 2000 Dubai Millennium, 2002 Street Cry, 2003 Moon Ballad), Irish 2,000 Guineas (2000 Bachir), French 2,000 Guineas (2000 Bachir), Irish Derby (1994 Balanchine), Breeders’ Cup Turf (1999 Daylami, 2001 Fantastic Light), Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies’ (2001 Tempera), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1997 & 1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami, 2004 Doyen), Irish Champion Stakes (1994 Cezanne, 1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), Irish St Leger (1998, 1999 Kayf Tara), Arlington Million (2003 Sulamani - the 100th G1 winner) and three Prix de l’Arc de Triomphes (1995 Lammtarra, 2001 Sakhee and 2002 Marienbard). Godolphin has been leading British owner in 1996, 1998, 1999 and 2001 and this year has an expanded team of over 200 horses. Godolphin enjoyed a very successful Royal Ascot with six winners, including Refuse To Bend in the Queen Anne Stakes, who subsequently won the Coral-Eclipse, Papineau in the Gold Cup and Doyen in the Hardwicke Stakes. The last-named went on to record Godolphin’s fourth King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes success. Other big-race victories this season include Sulamani in the Juddmonte International Stakes, Crimson Palace in the Beverly D Stakes in the USA and Rule Of Law.

Previous betfair.com St Leger wins: 1995 Classic Cliche; 1998 Nedawi; 1999 Mutafaweq; 2004 Rule Of Law

Saeed bin Suroor
Godolphin’s trainer, former police officer Saeed bin Suroor, was born in Dubai on October 10, 1967. He has been champion British trainer three times - in 1996, 1998 and 1999 - but a low-key season for Godolphin in 2000 saw him finish only seventh in the table, recovering to third in 2001, fifth in 2002 though slipping to 16th last season. Coupled with his phenomenal achievements with Godolphin, bin Suroor trained the unbeaten Lammtarra for Sheikh Mohammed’s nephew, Saeed Maktoum Al Maktoum, to win the 1995 Vodafone Derby, Ascot’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes and Prix de l Arc de Triomphe. That the horse raced only four times in his career and yet was trained by bin Suroor to succeed in those three pre-eminent Group One events is an achievement which cannot be overstated. Bin Suroor is aided by racing manager Simon Crisford. Cape Verdi’s UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas win completed the full set of British classics for bin Suroor in 1998. His domestic classic winners are UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas (1998 Cape Verdi, 2002 Kazzia), UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas (1996 Mark Of Esteem, 1999 Island Sands), Vodafone Derby (1995 Lammtarra), Vodafone Oaks (1995 Moonshell, 2002 Kazzia) and St Leger (1995 Classic Cliche, 1998 Nedawi, 1999 Mutafaweq, 2004 Rule Of Law). Godolphin has enjoyed numerous other big-race wins worldwide and last year saw Godolphin achieve over 100 Grade/Group One races, with the best victories coming with Moon Ballad in the Dubai World Cup and Sulamani in the Arlington Million. Bin Suroor is currently heading the trainers’ championship in Britain, largely due to six winners at Royal Ascot, Rule Of Law’s second in the Vodafone Derby, Refuse To Bend’s victory in the Coral-Eclipse, Doyen’s success in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes and Sulamani’s win in the Juddmonte International Stakes.

betfair.com St Leger Record (since 1980): 2004 RULE OF LAW (WON); 2002 Mamool (4th); 2001 Alunissage (6th); 1999 MUTAFAWEQ (WON); 1999 Adair (3rd); 1998 NEDAWI (WON); 1997 Haltarra (9th); 1996 Sharaf Kabeer (7th); 1995 CLASSIC CLICHE (WON).

Kerrin McEvoy
Kerrin McEvoy, who was born on October 24, 1980, was appointed second rider, behind Frankie Dettori, to Godolphin this year. He enjoyed a great first British classic ride when second in the UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas on Sundrop and was again runner-up on his first Vodafone Derby ride, Rule Of Law. McEvoy - whose father Philip was a jockey - hails from the fishing hamlet Streaky Bay, six hours west of Adelaide, and shot to prominence in his home country four years ago when winning the Melbourne Cup aboard Brew, becoming the second-youngest jockey to ever win Australia’s premier race. He has partnered over 500 winners worldwide and ridden in Dubai for the past two winters and also in Hong Kong. He finished third on Godolphin’s Beekeeper in the 2002 Melbourne Cup and partnered his first British winner when scoring on Godolphin’s Destination Dubai at Haydock on May 1. He enjoyed Group 1 success at Baden Baden in Germany recently aboard Warrsan and made his first betfair.com St Leger ride a winning one on Rule Of Law today. 2004 RULE OF LAW (WON)


FOURTH RACE PLACED QUOTES
BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER (GROUP 1)

GROUND AGAINST QUIFF

Sir Michael Stoute’s bid for first success in the betfair.com St Leger must wait another year after Quiff gave the trainer his fifth second place in the final classic. Stoute’s other representative Maraahel finished fourth.

Kieren Fallon, Quiff’s rider, said: “She’s a really tough filly but the ground was against her. There had been no pace and when she came to the others she pulled out a bit more.”

Stoute said: “I’m thrilled and delighted by how she ran.”

Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager to the filly’s owner Khalid Abdulla, added: “She ran a great race and I don’t know what else there is for her this year but she might well stay in training next year.”

Tycoon finished third for the Aidan O’Brien team and Coolmore’s Stuart Fitzgibbon, representing owner Sue Magnier, reported: “Darryll (Holland) said he was very happy with that run but the early pace may have been a bit slow.

“He may not have quite seen out the one mile six furlongs and would probably be better at a mile and a half. Unusually for a Sadler’s Wells he loves fast ground.”

Richard Hills, rider of fourth-placed Maraahel, said: “He ran very well but just didn’t stay.”


QUIFF STILL “LIKELY” RUNNER

Despite the ground having quickened up overnight at Doncaster, connections of Quiff, second-favourite for the betfair.com St Leger, insisted at 11am today that “the intention was to run” in the final classic.

Teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager to Prince Khalid Abdullah, owner-breeder of Quiff, intends walking the course before making a final decision, but he stressed that, unless the ground got really firm, the filly would probably take her chance.

He said: “It was seriously firm at Royal Ascot, and only if we looked like encountering similar conditions would we consider pulling out.

“My priority is to make the right decision in the interest of the filly and Prince Khalid, but we also want to keep punters informed and all we are saying is that we want safe ground.

“It is a total myth that Quiff wants a bog - we have made no secret of the fact that she is not at her best on firm ground, but Kieren (Fallon) told me after riding yesterday that the going was not a problem and that there was plenty of juice in it.”

Quiff, winner of the Yorkshire Oaks, ran her one disappointing race on firm ground in the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot.

CZECH-TRAINED BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER RAIDER

An intriguing contestant in today’s betfair.com St Leger is the Arslangirey Shavuyev-trained Darsalam, who arrived at Doncaster on Tuesday afternoon after a good journey.

The three-year-old colt has been in fine form this season, winning on his last five starts including in the Austrian Derby, the Czech Derby and, most recently, the Czech St Leger by nine lengths from Reviton at Velka Chuchle on August 29.

The half-brother to St Leger winner Moonax was trained by Mark Johnston for Jaber Abdullah in 2003 when he was beaten over 40 lengths in 10-furlong events at Pontefract and Leicester.

Shavuyev, born on September 16, 1954, is a Russian citizen who has been training at the new racecourse at Most in the Czech Republic since 2000. He currently has 14 horses in training, four of whom, including Darsalam, are owned by Ardak Amirkulov of Turan Stables.

The trainer is a Nagayen national, hailing from a small ethnic group of about 8,000 people in the Caucasus mountains. Born at the Tersky stud farm, which breeds Arab horses in Russia, Shavuyev comes from a family steeped in racing.

He is the son of a leading Russian rider in Arab races, while his uncle Anvar Zekashev rode for Russian trainer Nikolai Nasibov, winning over 500 races in the former Soviet Union including the Moscow Derby. Zekashev also rode a Russian Derby winner, Zbor, in the 1969 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp.

Shavuyev joined the Kabardinsky stud farm as a trainer in 1976 and, in addition to Darsalam’s two Derby successes in 2004, has won a further four Derbys - Temirkanov also took the Czech Derby as well as the Slovakian Derby in 1998 and two Derbys in the former Soviet Union.

Amirkulov, who purchased Darsalam for 6,500 guineas at last year’s Tattersalls October Horses-in-Training Sale in Newmarket, was born 48 years ago close to the Kazakh town of Almaty and is a Professor of the Film Department of Kazakh University.

He also owns a big trout farm and inherited from his father a stud farm boarding 20 Kazakh broodmares and the same number of thoroughbred mares. In addition to his horses in the Czech Republic with Shavuyev, he has a dozen horses in training at Almaty Racecourse.

Darsalam will be ridden by Stanley Chin, who rides mainly for Johnston in Britain, and knows his mount well having partnered him to success in both the Austrian and Czech Derbys.


FIRST RACE WINNING QUOTES
GNER CONDITIONS STAKES

GALEOTA TAKES OPENER


Ryan Moore, who rides Frank Sonata in the betfair.com St Leger, began the day on the best possible note when taking the opening GNER Conditions Stakes aboard the Richard Hannon-trained Galeota.

The winner, who carries the colours of London-based owner John Lazzari, has always been held in high regard by the Hannon team and Moore feels there could still be better to come.

“He works better than anything at home,” said Moore. “But I think he still has a bit of growing up to do and will be a better horse next year.


“He got the rail, which I think helped him today. The ground is riding quite a bit quicker than it was yesterday.”



Race One: GNER Conditions Stakes

“GROUND IS FIRM” IN STRAIGHT


Jockeys in the opening GNER Conditions Stakes were unanimous that the ground had dried up and was now firm in the straight.

“Quicker,” was the view of winning rider Ryan Moore, while Richard Hills said: “it is definitely firm and with a strong headwind they won’t be breaking any track records today”.

Similarly, Kieren Fallon and Kerrin McEvoy had no hesitation in calling underfoot conditions “firm”.

Race Two: ladbrokes.com Handicap

COLISAY EARNS CRACK AT CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Kieren Fallon’s optimism of winning his first betfair.com St Leger on Quiff grew slightly after he had booted home Colisay to a gutsy neck success over Courageous Duke in the ladbrokes.com Handicap.

Fallon, who got a positive response from his partner, said: “Ideally, he wants some cut in the ground, but it is not too bad out there and he got away with it. I hope the filly (Quiff) does, too.”

You need a 10-furlong horse to win the nine-furlong totesport Cambridgeshire, so Ed Vaughan, who took over the running of the Clarehaven yard in Newmarket following the death of Alec Stewart in August, was anxious to see how Colisay shaped in this prep-race for the first leg of the autumn double, especially as his three previous wins had been gained over a mile.

And after Colisay had passed the test with flying colours, Vaughan said: “I always insisted that he would stay, but others were not so sure.

“He has a 7lb penalty for Newmarket, taking his weight up to 9st 6lb, and, while he is better in a small field, he is rated 99, so where else do we go ?” Ladbrokes cut his price to 20-1 from 33-1.

Vaughan has made a splendid start since being thrown into the hot seat, and he added: “That is our ninth winner and things have gone very well. I have had a lot of support, and I am pleased to confirm that I will be carrying on at the helm next year.”


THIRD RACE WINNING QUOTES
PORCELANOSA STAKES (HANDICAP)


OH CALCUTTA! OH CALCUTTA! OH CALCUTTA!

Eight-year-old Calcutta registered an amazing third success in the Porcelanosa Handicap when coming home a neck in front of Funfair to the delight of trainer Barry Hills.

The horse has run in the race five times, finishing fifth last year, second in 2002 and was successful in both 2001 and 1999.

“He’s a good old horse when conditions are right and everything drops in place,” said Hills. “He likes fast ground and likes this track, which is important as there are some that don’t suit him - he’s never run well at Ascot for instance. From two out, he was always going to pick them up.

“He’s given us all a lot of fun and we’d been discussing what to do with him. He was in the sales last year and we’d considered claimers but were worried where he might end up. He’ll go out to Dubai again this winter and he seems to come right at this time of year.”


FIFTH RACE WINNING QUOTES
POLYPIPE FLYING CHILDERS STAKES (GROUP 2)

FLYING CHATEAU TAKES CHILDERS

The Nick Littmoden-trained Chateau Istana returned from a lay-off of 66 days to take the Polypipe Flying Childers Stakes by two lengths.

“He won very easily at Leicester then would have been even more impressive when scoring (in the Windsor Castle Stakes) at Royal Ascot if he had not been hit over the head with a stick,” said Littmoden.

“You can write off his last run as he had an infection a few days afterwards, then we were set to run at York last month before the ground went against him.”

The colt carries the colours of Ivan Allan, who won the 1984 St Leger with Commanche Run, and Littmoden added: “Ivan is in Hong Kong now and I’ll have a chat with him to see what he wants to do. We’ve done our job now and he may not want to run again this season although the horse is in the Middle Park Stakes.

“He’s by Grand Lodge so winning over five must be a bonus and the mare has produced two Royal Ascot winners.”

Jockey Seb Sanders: “From halfway I had everything covered in front and he picked up well and looks like he’ll stay six furlongs.”


Race six - Torne Valley Farm & Country Store Handicap

GODOLPHIN CLOCK UP SIXTH DONCASTER WIN OF THE WEEK WITH MUTASALLIL


Godolphin won’t easily forget this year’s betfair.com St Leger Festival and, having barely had time to celebrate their big-race triumph with Rule of Law, they were back on the podium reflecting on Mutasallil’s short-head win in the Torne Valley Farm & Country Store Handicap - the sixth success of the meeting for the boys in blue.

In a head-bobbing finish with Pagan God, Richard Hills just forced the front-running Mutasallil home in a photo-finish.

Hills had ridden Mutasallil in his last two races and that is why he partnered the horse instead of St Leger hero Kerrin McEvoy, who is Godolphin’s official number two.

Diana Cooper, representing Godolphin, said: “Mutasallil is a lovely horse who, while a late, maturing type, has been given a patient time of things and it is just starting to pay off.

“He is very honest and tries his heart out, and Richard, who knows him well, gave him a terrific ride and got everything out of him. The step up in trip clearly suited him.”

Godolphin had four winners here on the opening day, and a brace today has cost Frankie Dettori (in Ireland with Doyen) dear in his quest for another jockey’s championship.

SEVENTH RACE QUOTES
TRILOGY NIGHTCLUB DONCASTER NURSERY

MALINSA IS WELCOME WINNER FOR GLOVER

Trainer Jeremy Glover was delighted to welcome Malinsa Blue into the winner’s enclosure after the Trilogy Nightclub Doncaster Nursery as the filly was giving him a first success for 98 days.

“At last!” said Glover. “I have had a viral infection in the yard but have had no luck recently. This filly should have won at Thirsk last week but she hit the front two out and just got caught on the line. We decided today to hang on until the last minute.

“I was sure she would get seven furlongs and I think she’ll get a mile. She’s a half-sister to a Listed winner so is worth a bit for breeding now. The main thing was to win as a two-year-old, which we’ve done.”



WIND DRIES UP GROUND


With no rain at Doncaster since the one millimetre which fell just before racing yesterday, the official going for betfair.com St Leger Day has been changed on the Straight Course to

FIRM - GOOD TO FIRM in places,

while on the Round Course it remains

GOOD TO FIRM.

Jonjo Sanderson, acting clerk of the course, made the alteration after walking the Town Moor track this morning.

He explained: “It has been breezy, which has kept away the dew that was so beneficial earlier in the week.

“There is still rain forecast, but whether it will arrive is anybody’s guess, and the wind has been drying out the straight and is now blowing in the horse’s faces instead of behind them.”


BETTING NEWS

Punters are predicting another big day for Godolphin at the betfair.com St Leger Festival and, as well as Rule of Law remaining a firm favourite for the oldest classic, there has been a strong market-move for Bayeux, who carries the colours of the boys in blue in the race before, the Porcelanosa Handicap.

Balthazar Fabricius, Ladbrokes spokesman, said: “Business has been relatively quiet on the St Leger, with most of our clients keeping their powder dry until after a final decision has been made about the participation of Quiff, but we have seen significant money for Bayeux, who has been slashed to 8-1 from 12-1.

“There has also been a big move for Lydgate, Godolphin’s sprinter in the Starlit Stakes at Goodwood, and we are now 3-1 from 9-2.”

Paddy Power went a point shorter Bayeux at 11-1 this morning, but they were quickly “filled in” and have also reduced offers to 8-1.

Ed Vaughan has made a terrific start to the season since taking over from the late Alex Stewart and Ladbrokes, who sponsor the 10-furlong handicap at 2.05pm, report a run on the stable’s representative Colisay, who is now 5-1 from 6-1, though Paddy Power clients prefer the Lynda Ramsden-trained Polygonal, who has firmed up as favourite and is now 2-1 (from 9-4).

Other moves in the Paddy Power offices surrounded Wunderwood, who is seeking a four-timer in the Torne Valley Farm & Country Store Handicap and has hardened as favourite to 6-4 (from 13-8), while the same firm report plenty of interest in Dove Cottage in the finale, the Trilogy Nightclub Doncaster Nursery. He has been clipped a point to 7-1.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP OF DONCASTER RACECOURSE FOR THE TOWN’S FIRST-BORN ON BETFAIR.COM ST LEGER DAY


The wonderful tradition of Doncaster Racecourse giving Life Membership to the town’s first-born on betfair.com St Leger day continues.

Thomas Reeve arrived at two minutes past three this morning at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, weighing in at 7st 12lb, and can come racing free at his local course.


THE BETFAIR.COM TOP JOCKEY TROPHY - FINAL STANDINGS

Wins Seconds Thirds
Frankie Dettori 6 3 2
Richard Hills 3 - -
Kieren Fallon 2 5 5
Ryan Moore 2 4 -
Steve Drowne 2 - -
Sam Hitchcott 2 - -
Jimmy Fortune 1 3 1
Michael Hills 1 1 1
Kerrin McEvoy 1 1 1
Richard Quinn 1 1 1
Seb Sanders 1 1 1
Neil Callan 1 1 -
Kevin Darley 1 - 1
Paul Hanagan 1 - 1
Nicky Mackay 1 - 1
Johnny Murtagh 1 - -
Frannie Norton 1 - -
Dane O’Neill 1 - -
Philip Robinson - 2 1
Martin Dwyer - 1 1
Eddie Ahern - 1 -
Chris Catlin - 1 -
Tom Queally - 1 -
Robert Winston - 1 1
Richard Hughes - - 3
Darryll Holland - - 2
Ted Durcan - - 1
Robert Havlin - - 1
Matthew Henry - - 1
Fergal Lynch - - 1
Willie Ryan - - 1



FIRST RACE RESULT

1.35pm GNER CONDITIONS STAKES
C2, £10,000 added. For 2yo which have not won a Class/Category A or B race, 6f. Weights: colt & geldings 8st 11lb; fillies 8st 6lb. Penalties: for each Class/Category E race won 2lb; for each Class/Category D race won 4lb; for each Class/Category C race won 6lb (nursery handicaps excluded for the purposes of penalties; penalties cumulative and maximum penalty 12lb). Allowances: horses which have never run 3lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £6,342.70; 2nd: £2,345.20; 3rd: £1,172.60; 4th: £533; 5th: £266.50

1) GALEOTA (J A Lazzari) Richard Hannon 2-9-01 Ryan Moore [1] 4/1
2) RAJWA (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor t2-8-11 Kerrin McEvoy [4] 6/4 Fav
3) OBE GOLD (BDR Partnership) Mick Channon 2-9-01 Kieren Fallon [5]
4) REQQA (Hamdan Al Maktoum) Mark Johnston 2-9-01 Richard Hills [2]

4 ran Non-Runner: Bibury Flyer (Vet’s Certificate)
Time: 1 min 12.52 sec Dist: 2, 2 .5, 13
Breeder: W Maxwell Irvine Breeding: b c Mujadil (USA) - Refined (IRE) (Statoblest)
Tote Win: £5.80 Exacta: £11.70

Winning Trainer: Name- Hannon, Richard Michael Date of birth: 30/5/45 Date of first licence:1970 First Winner: Ampney Prince, Newbury, April 17, 1970 First Group Winner: Crespinall (Nassau Stakes, 1972, Goodwood) Classic wins: (3) Sagitta 2000 Guineas (1973 Mon Fils, 1987 Don't Forget Me, 1990 Tirol) Other major wins: Nunthorpe Stakes (1992 Lyric Fantasy), Moyglare Stud Stakes (1993 Lemon Souffle), Sussex Stakes (2003 Reel Buddy), Falmouth Stakes (1994 Lemon Souffle), Prix de l’Abbaye (1992 Mr Brooks), July Cup (1992 Mr Brooks), Yorkshire Cup (1993 Assessor), Lockinge Stakes (1993 Swing Low), Brigadier Gerard Stakes (1995 Alriffa), Diomed Stakes (1994 Bluegrass Prince), Queen Mary Stakes (1992 Lyric Fantasy & 1993 Risky), Cork and Orrery Stakes (1992 Shalford), Lowther Stakes (1992 Niche), Wokingham Stakes (1994 Venture Capitalist), Victor Chandler European Free Handicap (2000 Cape Town), Macau Jockey Club Craven Stakes (2000 Umistim, 2001 King’s Ironbridge), Prix Maurice de Gheest (2000 Bold Edge), Rockfel Stakes (2001 Distant Valley), Betfair.com Molecomb Stakes (1993 Risky), Hungerford Stakes (2002 Reel Buddy), Cherry Hinton Stakes (1993 Lemon Souffle, 2004 Jewel In The Sand) Number of horses in training; (1985-2004):67:75:74:80:85 :107:131:139:155:178:167:155:149:145:155:162:147:169:169 Number of wins in a season (1982-2003):38:49:28:37:56:33:43:55:73:126:154:182:112:115:109:94:108:123:135:110:121:122 Wins this season: 98

Winning Jockey :- Name: Moore, Ryan Lee Born: 18th September 1983 Other Details: Apprenticed to Richard Hannon having previously been with his father Gary at Woodingdean in Brighton First winner: Mersey Beat (Land Rover Defender Amateur Riders’ Handicap Hurdle, Towcester, May 15, 2000) Major Wins: Tote Cesarewitch (2002 Miss Fara) Wins in 2002-03: 39; 59 (champion apprentice) Wins This Season: 104



SECOND RACE RESULT

2.05pm LADBROKES.COM HANDICAP
B1, £30,000 Total Prize Fund. For 3yo+ rated 96-110 (Also open to such horses rated 95 and below), 1m 2f 60 yds. Weights: highest weight 9st 7lb; minimum weight 8st 7lb (3yo 8st). Penalties: after September 4, a winner 6lb. Weight for age: 3 from 4yo+ 7lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £17,400; 2nd: £6,600; 3rd: £3,300; 4th: £1,500; 5th: £750; 6th: £450

1) COLISAY (M Hawkes, Mrs M E Domville) Ed Vaughan 5-9-01 Kieren Fallon [4] 4/1
2) COURAGEOUS DUKE (Lucayan Stud) Jeremy Noseda 5-8-09 Seb Sanders [2] 9/2
3) ROEHAMPTON (The Celle Syndicate Incorporated) Sir Michael Stoute v1 3-8-06 Martin Dwyer [1] 16/1
4) BONECRUSHER (Mohammed Rashid) David Loder v5-9-07 Ryan Moore [7]
5) WEECANDOO (sportsdays.co.uk, Conrad Allen) Conrad Allen 6-8-07 Gary Carter [6]
6) FAMOUS GROUSE (Mountgrange Stud) 4-9-00 Darryll Holland [5]
7) BLUE SKY THINKING (Triple Trio Partnership) Karl Burke 5-8-08 Shane Kelly [8]
8) POLYGONAL (R C Thompson) Lynda Ramsden 4-8-10 Jimmy Fortune [3] 3/1 Fav

8 ran
Time: 2 min 09.33s Dist: nk, 1.25, .75, .75, 1.25, 2.5, 1
Breeder: Patrick Eddery Ltd Breeding: b g Entrepreneur - La Sorrela (IRE) (Cadeaux Genereux)
Tote Win: £4.70 Places: £1.60; £2.10; £3.60 Exacta: £25.00

Winning Trainer:- Name: Vaughan, Ed Based: Clarehaven Stables, Newmarket Background: Former assistant trainer to Alec Stewart, who died on Wednesday, August 4. Wins This Season: 9

Winning jockey:-Name: Fallon, Kieren Francis. Born: County Clare, Ireland, 22/2/65 Apprenticeship: 1983 Kevin Prendergast First winner: Piccadily Lord (Navan, June 18, 1984) Wins (1988-2003): 31,28,39,29,45,60,47,91,136,202*,204*,202*,149, 166*, 149*, 221* *Champion jockey Classic wins: (11) 2000 Guineas (2000 King’s Best, 2001 Golan), 1000 Guineas (1997 Sleepytime, 1999 Wince, 2003 Russian Rhythm), Vodafone Oaks (1997 Reams Of Verse, 1999 Ramruma, 2004 Ouija Board), Vodafone Derby (1999 Oath, 2003 Kris Kin, 2004 North Light) Other major wins include: St James’s Palace Stakes (1998 Dr Fong), Prince Of Wales’s Stakes (1997 Bosra Sham), Gold Cup (2003 Mr Dinos), Coronation Stakes (2003 Russian Rhythm), King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (2002 Golan), Sussex Stakes (1997 Ali-Royal);Prince Of Wales’s Stakes (1997 Bosra Sham), Cheveley Park Stakes (1997 Embassy), St James’s Palace Stakes (1998 Dr Fong), Yorkshire Oaks (1998 Catchascatchcan, 1999 Ramruma, 2002 and 2003 Islington, 2004 Quiff), Tattersalls Gold Cup (1999 Shiva); Irish Oaks (1999 Ramruma, 2004 Ouija Board); Vodafone Coronation Cup (2000 Daliapour, 2002 Boreal), Dubai Sheema Classic (2000 Fantastic Light), Queen Anne Stakes (2000 Kalanisi, 2001 Medicean), Masai Mile (2001 Nicobar), Vodafone Nassau Stakes (2002 Islington, 2003 Russian Rhythm, 2004 Favourable Terms), Prix Morny (2002 Elusive City), July Stakes (2003Nevisian Lad), Fillies’ Mile (2003 Red Bloom); Prix d’Ispahan (2003 Falbrav) Wins This Season: 168


THIRD RACE RESULT

2.40pm PORCELANOSA HANDICAP
B1, £30,000 Total Prize Fund. For 3yo+ rated 96-110 (Also open to such horses rated 95 and below), 1m. Weights: highest weight 9st 7lb; minimum weight 8st 7lb (3yo 8st 2lb). Penalties: after September 4, a winner 3lb. Weight for age: 3 from 4yo+ 5lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £17,400; 2nd: £6,600; 3rd: £3,300; 4th: £1,500; 5th: £750; 6th: £450

1) CALCUTTA (Catherine Corbett & Chris Wright) Barry Hills 8-8-11 Richard Hills [12] 8/1
2) FUNFAIR (Cheveley Park Stud) Amanda Perrett 5-9-02 Ryan Moore [8] 14/1
3) DESERT STAR (The Queen) Sir Michael Stoute 4-8-11 Kieren Fallon [5] 8/1
4) FLIGHTY FELLOW (David Armstrong) Tim Easterby b4-8-07 Gary Carter [14]
5) MINE (Mike Dawson) James Bethell v6-9-07 Richard Quinn [2]
6) BLUE SPINNAKER (G Sparkes, G Hart, S Curtis & T Dewhirst) Mick Easterby 5-9-01 Shane Kelly 6/1 Fav
7) LUNDY'S LANE (Saeed Manana) Clive Brittain 4-8-07 Seb Sanders [7]
8) WELCOME STRANGER (H R & Rosemary Moszkowicz) James Eustace 4-8-07 Darryll Holland [3]
9) PENTECOST (J C, J R & S R Hitchins) Andrew Balding 5-9-02 Liam Keniry (3) [6]
10) BAYEUX (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor t3-8-08 Kerrin McEvoy [9]
11) WILL HE WISH (Mrs D Dukes) Steve Gollings b8-8-04 Richard Thomas (3) [13]
12) ISIDORE BONHEUR (Bill Gredlay & Matthew Green) Barry Hills 3-8-06 Dane O'Neill [11]
13) ALWAYS ESTEEMED (Mollers Racing) Geoff Wragg 4-8-11 Martin Dwyer [4]
14) ROSKILDE (Sheikh Mohammed) Mick Channon 4-8-11 Jimmy Fortune [1]
15) AQUALUNG (Khalid Abdulla) Barry Hills 3-8-02 Franny Norton [10]

15 ran
Time: 1 min 37.74 sec Dist: nk, sh, sh, nk, 1, nk, .75, nk, sh, 4, .5, 2.5, 3, 6
Breeder: Campbell Stud Breeding: b h Indian Ridge - Echoing (Formidable)
Tote Win: £8.70 Places: £2.30; £4.10; £3.00 Exacta: £145.40

Winning trainer:-Name: Hills, Barrington William Born: Worcester, 2/4/37;Date of first licence:1969;First winner: La Dolce Vita (Thirsk, April 18,1969) Previous Occupation: Served apprenticeship with Fred Rimell and George Colling, Head Lad with John Oxley for 10 years Classic wins: (4) UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas (1978 Enstone Park), UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas (1979 Tap on Wood, 2004 Haafhd), St Leger (1994 Moonax), Other major wins: Irish 1000 Guineas (1993 Nicer, 1999 Hula Angel), Irish Derby (1987 Sir Harry Lewis), Irish Oaks (1974 Dibidale, 1994 Bolas), French St Leger (1994 Moonax), Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe (1973 Rheingold), Ascot Gold Cup (1984 & 1985 Gildoran), Champion Stakes (1983 Cormorant Wood, 2002 Storming Home), Nunthorpe Stakes (1988 HandsomeSailor), Flying Childers Stakes (1987 Gallic League, 1998 Sheer Viking), Champagne Stakes (1977 Sexton Blake, 1985 Sure Blade, 1998 Auction House), Dewhurst Stakes (1988 Scenic (DH), 1996 In Command, 1999 Distant Music), Greenham Stakes (2001 Munir), MBNA Europe Bank Chester Vase (1979 Cracaval, 1973 Proverb, 1999 Peshtigo, 2001 Mr Combustible), Classic Trial (2001 Chancellor), Challenge Stakes (2001 Munir), Royal Whip Stakes (2002 Chancellor), Prestige Stakes (2002 Geminiani), Cheshire Oaks (1992 Aquamarine, 1994 Bolas, 1998 High And Low, 1999 Valentine Girl), Jardine Lloyd Thompson Dee Stakes (1970 Golden Monad, 1972 Our Mirage, 1973 Natsun, 1975 Ravel, 1979 Two Of Diamonds, 1985 Infantry, 1987 Sir Harry Lewis, 1989 Free Sweater, 1990 Blue Stag, 1998 Prolix, 2002 Sohaib) Wins in a season (1987-2003): 96:93:73:113:99:63:39:44:74:84 :79:78:109:72:107:91:107 Horses in training (1984-2004):107,125,139,131,140,152,175,159,129,n/a,113,120,130,137 ,145,150,148,160,167,168, 186 Trains at South Bank Stables, Lambourn Wins this season: 60

Winning jockey:-Name: Hills, Richard John. Born: Newmarket, 22/1/63 Apprenticeship: With Tom Jones. First winner: Border Dawn (Doncaster 26/10/79) Classic wins: (4) UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas (1995 Harayir, 2000 Lahan), UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas (2004 Haafhd), St Leger (1999 Mutafaweq) Other major wins: German Oaks (2002 Salve Regina), Middle Park Stakes (1997 Hayil), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1994 Maroof, 2001 Summoner); Yorkshire Cup (1985 Ilium); Norfolk Stakes (1986 Sizzling Melody, 1989 Pettilante), Chesham Stakes (1996 Shamikh), Queen Mary Stakes (1997 Nadwah), July Cup (1998 Elnadim), Hungerford Stakes (1998 Muhtathir), Dubai World Cup (1999 Almutawakel), Temple Stakes (1999 Tipsy Creek); Rockfel Stakes (1999 Lahan); September Stakes (2000 Mutamam); Select Stakes (2000 Ekraar, 2001 Nayef), Autumn Stakes (2000 Nayef), Greenham Stakes (2001 Munir), Dubai Champion Stakes (2001 Nayef), Falmouth Stakes (2000 Alshakr, 2002 Tashawak), Juddmonte International Stakes (2002 Nayef), Geoffrey Freer Stakes (2002 Mubtaker), Great Voltigeur Stakes (2002 Bandari), Watership Down Stud Sales Race (2002 Sharplaw Venture), Royal Lodge Stakes (1998 Mutaahab, 2002 Al Jadeed), Princess Of Wales’s Stakes (1994 Wagon Master; 2001 Mutamam; 2004 Bandari), Champagne Stakes (2004 Etlaala) Wins (1990-2003):56, 67,52,57,59,70,71,85,83,77,81,79,81,75 Wins This Season: 53 Other details: Took over as number one jockey to Hamdan Al Maktoum on the retirement of Willie Carson.

FIFTH RACE RESULT

3.45pm POLYPIPE FLYING CHILDERS STAKES
A1, Group Two, £70,000 Total Prize Fund. For 2yo,5f 132 yds. Weights: colts & geldings 8st 12lb; fillies 8st 9lb. Penalties: a winner of a Group Three race 3lb; of a Group One or Two race 5lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £42,000; 2nd: £16,100; 3rd: £8,050; 4th: £3,850

1) CHATEAU ISTANA (Ivan Allan) Nick Littmoden 2-8-12 Seb Sanders [7] 11/1
2) TOURNEDOS (Ridgeway Downs Racing) Mick Channon 2-9-01 Richard Quinn [3] 11/2
3) KISSING LIGHTS (M B Hawtin) Michael Bell 2-8-09 Darryll Holland [12] 20/1
4) AMAZIN (K Panos) Richard Hannon 2-8-12 Ryan Moore [4]
5) BOND CITY (Reg Bond) Bryan Smart 2-8-12 Derek McGaffin [10]
6) SUMORA (Sangster Family) Gerard Butler 2-8-09 Jimmy Fortune [9] Fav
7) PITCH UP (B G Chamley) Terry Mills b1 2-8-12 Gary Carter [11]
8) BUNDITTEN (Andrew Reid) Andrew Reid 2-8-09 Franny Norton [5]
9) SAFARI SUNSET (Peter Winkworth) Peter Winkworth 2-8-12 Richard Smith [6]
10) SKYWARDS (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor t2-8-12 Kerrin McEvoy [2]
11) BECKERMET (Bishopthorpe Racing Two) Roger Fisher 2-8-12 Kieren Fallon [8]

10 ran
Time: 1 min 00.36 sec Dist: 2, .75, 1, 1.75, hd, .5, sh, nk, nk, hd
Breeder: High Bramley Grange Stud Ltd
Breeding: ch c Grand Lodge (USA) - Miss Queen (USA) (Miswaki)
Tote Win: £13.00 Places: £2.90; £2.30; £3.60 Exacta: £60.00

Winning trainer:- Name Littmoden, Nicholas Paul Date of Birth: 3/1/63 Riding Career: Amateur, Flat & Point-to-Points Date of first trainer’s licence: October 1994. Previously pupil assistant to M Mason for three years; Assistant trainer to J Ffitch Heyes for one year & Jenny Pitman for six months Number of Horses in training (1998-2004): 46, 57, 73, 94, 94, 97, 49 Wins in a season (1994-2003): 0,9,6,18, 40, 61, 57, 51, 79, 54 Trains at Southgate, Newmarket, Suffolk Major wins: Jubilee Handicap (1998 & 1999 Tertium), Flying Childers Stakes (2004 Chateau Istana) Royal Ascot Wins (1): Windsor Castle Stakes (2004 Chateau Istana)

Winning jockey:-Name: Sanders, Sebastian Date of birth: 25/9/72 First winner: Band On The Run (Pontefract, Whitelane Apprentice Series Stakes, June 12, 1990) Major wins include: July Cup Stakes (Compton Place 1997), Royal Lodge Stakes (1997 Teapot Row), Mill Reef Stakes (1998 Golden Silca), Oak Tree Stakes (2002 Desert Alchemy), Victor Chandler Palace House Stakes (2003 Needwood Blade), Dahlia Stakes (2004 Beneventa), Irish 2,000 Guineas (2004 Bachelor Duke), Vodafone Stewards’ Cup (2004 Pivotal Point),. Gimcrack Stakes (2004 Tony James), Flying Childers Stakes (2004 Chateau Istana) Wins (1991-2003): 2,10,4,23,61,97,105,82,90,80,83,123,101 Wins this year: 131 Background: appointed stable jockey to Sir Mark Prescott at beginning of 2004 campaign



SIXTH RACE RESULT
4.20pm TORNE VALLEY FARM & COUNTRY STORE HANDICAP
B1, £20,000 added.For 3yo+ rated 96-110 (also open to such horses rated 95 and below),1m 4f. Weights: highest weight 9st 7lb; minimum weight 8st 7lb (3yo 7st 12lb). Penalties: after September 4, a winner 6lb. Weight for age: 3yo from 4yo+ 9lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £13,795.60; 2nd: £4,244.80; 3rd: £2,122.40; 4th: £1,061.20

1) MUTASALLIL (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor t4-9-03 Richard Hills [9] 9/2
2) PAGAN DANCE (The Gap Partnership) Amanda Perrett p5-8-09 Ryan Moore [8] 9/2
3) WUNDERWOOD (Tony Perkins) Lady Herries 5-9-07 Seb Sanders [6] 7/4 Fav
4) BAGAN (Niarchos Family) Henry Cecil 5-8-07 Kerrin McEvoy [1]
5) HELLO IT'S ME (P A L Butler) Hugh Collingridge 3-7-09 Richard Thomas (3) [5]
6) TOTAL TURTLE (W J Smith & M D Dudley) Paul Cole 5-9-06 Jimmy Fortune [3]
7) TURBO (Peter Richardson) Toby Balding p5-8-08 Steve Carson [4]
8) ALBANOV (Michael Watt) Mark Johnston 4-8-10 Kieren Fallon [2]

8 ran Non-Runner: Ovambo (Ground)
Time: 2 min 29.15 sec Dist: sh, 5, 2.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 1.75
Breeder: Shadwell Farm LLC Breeding: b c Gone West (USA) - Min Alhawa (USA) (Riverman)
Tote Win: £5.40 Places: £2.00; £2.00; £1.40 Exacta: £30.90
Winning trainer:-Name: bin Suroor, Saeed Trains at Newmarket for Godolphin, the racing entity of Sheikh Mohammed, whose horses winter in Dubai and race worldwide. British Classic wins: (11) 2,000 Guineas (1996 Mark of Esteem, 1999 Island Sands), 1,000 Guineas (1998 Cape Verdi, 2002 Kazzia), Vodafone Oaks (1995 Moonshell; 2002 Kazzia); Vodafone Derby (1995 Lammtarra); betfair.com St Leger (1995 Classic Cliche; 1998 Nedawi; 1999 Mutafaweq, 2004 Rule Of Law) Other major wins include: Irish Derby (1994 Balanchine), Irish 2000 Guineas (2000 Bachir), Irish Champion Stakes (1994 Cezanne; 1998 Swain, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), Irish St Leger (1998 & 1999 Kayf Tara), French 2000 Guineas (1995 Vettori; 2000 Bachir; 2001 Noverre); Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (1995 Lammtarra, 2001 Sakhee, 2002 Marienbard); Breeders Cup Turf (2001 Fantastic Light), Prix d’Ispahan (1996 Halling, 2002 Best Of The Bests), Eclipse (1995,1996 Halling; 1998 Daylami; 2004 Refuse To Bend); Juddmonte International Stakes (1995 & 1996 Halling, 2001 Sakhee, 2004 Sulamani), Ascot Gold Cup (1996 Classic Cliche; 1998 Kayf Tara, 2000 Kayf Tara), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (1995 Lammtarra; 1997 & 1998 Swain, 1999 Daylami, 2004 Doyen), Nunthorpe Stakes (1995 So Factual), Derby Italiano (1998 Central Park), Lockinge Stakes (1998 Cape Cross; 2000 Aljabr), Prix Jean Prat (1998 Almutawakel), Prix de la Salamandre (1998 Aljabr), Man O’ War Stakes (1998 Daylami; 2000 Fantastic Light), Lockinge Stakes (1998 Cape Cross, 1999 Fly To The Stars, 2000 Aljabr), Great Voltigeur Stakes (1998 Sea Wave), Vodafone Coronation Cup (1999 Daylami, 2001 Mutafaweq), Sussex Stakes (1999 Aljabr, 2001 Noverre) Stanley Leisure Sprint Cup (1999 Diktat), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1996 Mark Of Esteem, 1999 Dubai Millennium, 2001 Summoner), Prix Jacques le Marois (1999 Dubai Millennium, 2000 Muhtathir), Prince of Wales’s Stakes (1998 Faithful Son, 2000 Dubai Millennium, 2001 Fantastic Light, 2002 Grandera), Hong Kong Cup (2000 Fantastic Light), Man O'War Stakes (2000 Fantastic Light), Canadian International Stakes (2000 Mutafaweq), JP Morgan Private Bank Goodwood Cup (1999 Kayf Tara), Gran Premio Del Jockey Club (2001 Kutub), Prix du Moulin de Longchamp (2001 Slickly), Grosser Dallmayr Preis (2001 Kutub), Tattersalls Gold Cup (2001 Fantastic Light), Premio Vittorio Di Capua (2001 and 2002 Slickly), Flower Bowl Invitational Stakes (2002 Kazzia), Gazelle Handicap (2002 Imperial Gesture), Beldame Stakes (2002 Imperial Gesture), Deutschlandpreis (2000 Mutafaweq, 2002 Marienbard), American Oaks (2002 Jilbab), Stephen Foster Handicap (2002 Street Cry), Singapore Airlines International Cup (2002 Grandera), Grosser Bugatti Preis (2002 Marienbard, 2003 Mamool), Dubai World Cup (2000 Dubai Millennium, 2002 Street Cry, 2003 Moon Ballad), Dubai Sheema Classic (2003 Sulamani), Queen Anne Stakes (2003 Dubai Destination), Gran Premio di Milano (2003 Leadership), Arlington Million (2003 Sulamani), Prix Vermeille (2003 Mezzo Soprano), Turf Classic Invitational (2003 Sulamani), Preis Von Europa (2001 Kutub, 2003 Mamool) Wins in a season (1995-2003) 14:48:41:38:41:17:24:21:23 Wins this season: 85 First Goodwood Win: Tamayaz (Vodapage Conditions Stakes, July 29, 1995) First Winner In England: Classic Cliche (Dante Stakes, May 17, 1995, York)

Winning jockey:-Name: Hills, Richard John. Born: Newmarket, 22/1/63 Apprenticeship: With Tom Jones. First winner: Border Dawn (Doncaster 26/10/79) Classic wins: (4) UltimateBet.com 1000 Guineas (1995 Harayir, 2000 Lahan), UltimateBet.com 2000 Guineas (2004 Haafhd), St Leger (1999 Mutafaweq) Other major wins: German Oaks (2002 Salve Regina), Middle Park Stakes (1997 Hayil), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1994 Maroof, 2001 Summoner); Yorkshire Cup (1985 Ilium); Norfolk Stakes (1986 Sizzling Melody, 1989 Pettilante), Chesham Stakes (1996 Shamikh), Queen Mary Stakes (1997 Nadwah), July Cup (1998 Elnadim), Hungerford Stakes (1998 Muhtathir), Dubai World Cup (1999 Almutawakel), Temple Stakes (1999 Tipsy Creek); Rockfel Stakes (1999 Lahan); September Stakes (2000 Mutamam); Select Stakes (2000 Ekraar, 2001 Nayef), Autumn Stakes (2000 Nayef), Greenham Stakes (2001 Munir), Dubai Champion Stakes (2001 Nayef), Falmouth Stakes (2000 Alshakr, 2002 Tashawak), Juddmonte International Stakes (2002 Nayef), Geoffrey Freer Stakes (2002 Mubtaker), Great Voltigeur Stakes (2002 Bandari), Watership Down Stud Sales Race (2002 Sharplaw Venture), Royal Lodge Stakes (1998 Mutaahab, 2002 Al Jadeed), Princess Of Wales’s Stakes (1994 Wagon Master; 2001 Mutamam; 2004 Bandari), Champagne Stakes (2004 Etlaala) Wins (1990-2003):56, 67,52,57,59,70,71,85,83,77,81,79,81,75 Wins This Season: 55 Other details: Took over as number one jockey to Hamdan Al Maktoum on the retirement of Willie Carson.

SEVENTH RACE RESULT

4.55pm TRILOGY NIGHTCLUB DONCASTER NURSERY
D2, £10,000 added.For 2yo rated 0-85, 7f. Minimum weight 7st 12lb. Penalties: after September 4, a winner 6lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £7,280; 2nd: £2,240; 3rd: £1,120; 4th: £560

1) MALINSA BLUE (Andrea Mallinson) Jeremy Glover 2-8-12 Frannie Norton [11] 20/1
2) TURNAROUND (J Musgrave, SP Racing Investments SA) Lynda Ramsden 2-9-01 Jimmy Fortune 8/1
3) CEREBUS (Paul Dixon) Nick Littmoden 2-8-10 Kieren Fallon [10] 4/1 Fav
4) ZOMERLUST (P J Carr) Jimmy Quinn 2-9-03 Richard Winston [6]
5) DOVE COTTAGE (Reg Gifford) Stuart Kittow 2-8-02 Richard Thomas (3) [14]
6) DRY ICE (Simon Broke & Partners) Henry Candy 2-9-07 Dane O'Neill [2]
7) SECRET HISTORY (J Shack, G Barnard) Mark Johnston 2-8-12 Richard Hills [15]
8) CAPE QUEST (Malih L Al Basti) Richard Hannon 2-9-06 Ryan Moore [9]
9) TREAT ME WILD (The Old Downtown Partnership) Richard Hannon 2-8-10 Richard Smith [12]
10) ALONG THE NILE (J Musgrave, SP Racing Investments SA) Lynda Ramsden 2-8-07 Martin Dwyer [1]
11) VISION VICTORY (S M Racing) Tom Tate 2-7-05 Dominic Fox (5) [8]
12) THREE PENNIES (W J P Jackson, Dwayne Woods) Michael Dods 2-8-09 Shane Kelly [5]
13) TIFFIN DEANO (Lord Clyde Racing) Patrick Haslam 2-7-06 Darren Fentiman (7) [7]
14) LOVE AND LAUGHTER (Gold Star Partners) Tim Easterby 2-8-12 Seb Sanders [13]


14 ran Non-Runner: Aberdeen Park (Ground)
Time: 1 min 27.43 sec Dist: .75, .75, 1.5, .75, hd, 5, 1.5, 2.5, nk, .5, sh, 5, 2.5
Breeder: Martin Donovan Breeding: b f Desert Style (IRE) - Talima’s Law (IRE) (Law Society)
Tote Win: £23.40 Places: £4.60; £3.70; £1.90 Exacta: £317.70

Winning trainer:-Name Glover, Jeremy Anton Date of birth:23/9/44 Date of first trainer's licence:1/11/84 Previous occupation: Professional National Hunt jockey for 18yrs Major wins include: Cambridgeshire Handicap (1987 Balthus, 1989 and 1992 Rambo's Hall), Bradford & Bingley Handicap (1992 Doulabs Image) Wins in a season (1987-2003):8:12:3: 5:4:25:9:11:26:13:16:16:11:17:16:14:19 Horses in training (1988-2004):25:37:30:32:24:28:25:19:30:25:35:32:34:42:36:31:24 Trains at Pinewood Stables Worksop, Nottinghamshire

Winning jockey:-Name: Norton, Francis Born: July 28, 1970 Big Race Wins Include: Ebor Handicap (1991 Deposki), Cambridgeshire (1999 She’s Our Mare), Britannia Stakes (2000 El Gran Papa, 2001 Analyser) Wins (1991-2003): 37,37,24,11,23,17,22,40,47,77, 82,39,68 Wins this season: 49

THE VALUE BETTING COLUMN EVERY SATURDAY

DONCASTER, UK
3.15pm, Saturday, September 11
THE £400,000 betfair.com ST LEGER 1m 6f 132y

Form Horse Age/Wt Owner Trainer Jockey Draw

1) 0(3)-02113 ALBINUS 3-9-00 Kirsten Rausing Andrew Balding Martin Dwyer 3
Beaten in a close finish by fellow betfair.com St Leger outsider Frank Sonata over 12 furlongs at Haydock - has yet to tackle this trip and his overall form does not appear good enough
BP= 50/1


2) 0-211111 DARSALAM (IRE) 3-9-00 Turan Stables Arslangirey Shavuyev CZE Stanley Chin 10
Half-brother to St Leger winner Moonax. Did nothing in Britain last year and now trained in the Czech Republic. Has won his last five races including the Austrian and Czech Derbys and ran away with the Czech St Leger last time out - this will be s lot harder.

BP= 100/1


3) 00-61311 FRANK SONATA 3-9-00 Adams, Flynn, Arnold Mick Quinlan Ryan Moore 8
Has won his last two races over 12 furlongs at Haydock but this is a much tougher test.
BP= 22/1


4) 1-323 GO FOR GOLD (IRE) 3-9-00 Michael Tabor & Sue Magnier Aidan O'Brien IRE Seb Sanders 1
Consistent sort from top stable Third in the Daily Telegraph Great Voltigeur Stakes at York behind Rule Of Law and Let The Lion Roar. The half-brother to St Leger winner Milan will no doubt show some improvement over this trip but he needs to.

BP= 16/1


5) 12-13352 LET THE LION ROAR 3-9-00 Neil Jones John Dunlop Richard Quinn 2
Another consistent sort who has found Rule Of Law his bete noir this season, finishing four times behind that horse. Third in the Derby, fifth in the Irish Derby and second in the Voltigeur, means he has plenty of talent but the questions is when will he get his head in front?
BP= 6/1


6) 414-221 MARAAHEL (IRE) 3-9-00 Hamdan Al Maktoum Sir Michael Stoute Richard Hills 5
Progressive sort who came good at Goodwood in the Group Three ABN Ambro Stakes (formerly the Gordon Stakes) at Goodwood, beating fellow St Leger runners Go For Gold (second) and Mikado (fourth). The type to do well over this extra distant and could be the surprise package of the race.
BP= 9/1

7) 211-443 MIKADO 3-9-00 Sue Magnier & Michael Tabor Aidan O'Brien IRE Jimmy Fortune 7
Consistent sort but has something to find on form.

BP= 28/1


8)113-2241 RULE OF LAW (USA) 3-9-00 Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor Kerrin McEvoy 9
The clear form pick - the main problem is whether he will stay or not. His style of running suggests that he will get the trip, indeed he was staying on when winning the Group Two Voltigeur Stakes at York, the best trial and his fourth in the Irish Derby and second in the Derby are the best form seen in the race.

BP= 11/4


9)3215-360 TYCOON 3-9-00 Sue Magnier Aidan O'Brien IRE Darryll Holland 6
Finished well when third in the Irish Derby. Highly tried since in the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes and the Juddmonte International - ran OK in the former but poorly in the later.

BP= 8/1


10) 5-131 QUIFF 3-8-11 Khalid Abdulla Sir Michael Stoute Kieren Fallon 4
Lightly-raced sort who is on the upgrade and ran away with the Group One Aston Upthorpe Yorkshire Oaks on very soft ground at York last month. She may have been flattered that day and the ground is certainly very different being good to firm. Caution is advised.

BP= 7/2

SUMMARY
An interesting race and MARAAHEL is taken as the value betting choice.

10 declared runners
3 Irish-trained
1 Czech-trained

BREAKDOWN OF RUNNERS BY TRAINER WITH PAST SUCCESSES IN THE betfair.com ST LEGER

3
Aidan O’Brien IRE
(2001 Milan, 2003 Brian Boru)
Go For Gold
Mikado
Tycoon

2
Sir Michael Stoute
Maraahel
Quiff

1
Andrew Balding
Albinus

Saeed bin Suroor
(1995 Classic Cliche, 1998 Nedawi, 1999 Mutafaweq)
Rule Of Law

John Dunlop
(1986 Moon Madness, 1997 Silver Patriarch, 2000 Millenary)
Let The Lion Roar

Mick Quinlan
Frank Sonata

Arslangirey Shavuyev CZE
Darsalam

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