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RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE

LADIES’ DAY, FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012

 

NO RESERVES AS ALL 40 DECLARED RUNNERS STAY IN

 

There were no non-runners in the John Smith’s Grand National by the cut-off time of 9am today for the utilisation of reserves. Therefore, none of the four reserves - Any Currency, Our Island, Abbeybraney and Smoking Aces - will go forward for tomorrow’s John Smith’s Grand National.

 

THE 2012 JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL

Class 1, Grade 3, £975,000 total prize fund. 4.15pm, Aintree, Saturday, April 14, 2012, 4½m, 30 fences.

Form   Horse     Age/Weight Owner    Trainer/Jockey

1)13-P0311 SYNCHRONISED (IRE) 9-11-10 J P McManus Jonjo O'Neill/A P McCoy 

2)11/1121-4 BALLABRIGGS (IRE)  11-11-09  Trevor Hemmings Donald McCain/Jason Maguire

3)1/10P-13P WEIRD AL (IRE)  9-11-08   Brannon, Dick, Holden Donald McCain/Timmy Murphy

4)106-P422 NEPTUNE COLLONGES (FR) 11-11-06 John Hales Paul Nicholls/Daryl Jacob

5)2F-0511 CALGARY BAY (IRE)  9-11-06 Camilla Radford Henrietta Knight/Dominic Elsworth

6)F-6041UP ALFA BEAT (IRE)  8-11-05 Irvin Naylor John Hanlon IRE/ Davy Russell

7)F01/35-23 PLANET OF SOUND  10-11-05 Charles Lloyd-Baker Philip Hobbs/ Richard Johnson 

8)51U/022/2 BLACK APALACHI (IRE) 13-11-03 Teresa Burke Dessie Hughes IRE/Denis O’Regan

9)6/3U34-1F DEEP PURPLE  11-11-03  Paul Green Evan Williams/Jamie Moore 

10)131/321-02 JUNIOR   9-11-02 Middleham Park Racing LI David Pipe/Tom Scudamore 

11)10-U3032 CHICAGO GREY (IRE)  9-10-13 John Earls Gordon Elliott IRE/Paul Carberry

12)3100-015 TATENEN (FR)  8-10-13 The Stewart Family Richard Rowe/Andrew Thornton

13)F11/-1111 SEABASS (IRE)  9-10-12 Gunners Syndicate Ted Walsh IRE/Ms Katie Walsh

14)000-1122 SHAKALAKABOOMBOOM (IRE) 8-10-12 Liam Breslin Nicky Henderson/Barry Geraghty

15)11PB-P1 WEST END ROCKER (IRE) 10-10-12  Barry Winfield & Tim Leadbeater Alan King/Wayne Hutchinson

16)22-30112 ACCORDING TO PETE 11-10-12 Peter Nelson Malcolm Jefferson/Harry Haynes

17)14P1-B1 ON HIS OWN (IRE)  8-10-11 Andrea & Graham Wylie Willie Mullins IRE/Ruby Walsh

18)2113-1PP ALWAYS RIGHT (IRE)  10-10-10 John Wade John Wade/James Reveley

19)3F2P/-133 CAPPA BLEU (IRE)  10-10-10 William & Angela Rucker Evan Williams/Paul Moloney

20)PU-345053 RARE BOB (IRE)  10-10-09 D A Syndicate Dessie Hughes IRE/Bryan Cooper

21)12-133F5 ORGANISEDCONFUSION (IRE) 7-10-08 Grace Dunlop Arthur Moore IRE/Miss Nina Carberry

22)P/P-51423 TREACLE (IRE)  11-10-08 Bjorn Nielsen Tom Taaffe IRE/Andrew Lynch

23)3/216-B430 THE MIDNIGHT CLUB (IRE) 11-10-08 Susannah Ricci Willie Mullins IRE/Paul Townend

24)3F/-52PP0 MON MOME (FR)  12-10-08 Vida Bingham Venetia Williams/Aidan Coleman

25)0P2F-60 ARBOR SUPREME (IRE) 10-10-07 J P McManus Jonjo O'Neill/Mark Walsh

26)03F-30P01 SUNNYHILLBOY (IRE)  9-10-05 J P McManus Jonjo O'Neill/Richie McLernon 

27)F-030341 KILLYGLEN (IRE)  10-10-04 David McCammon Stuart Crawford IRE/Robert Power

28)2F-4010 QUISCOVER FONTAINE (FR) 8-10-04 J P McManus Willie Mullins IRE/David Casey

29)4-P13000 THARAWAAT (IRE)  7-10-04 Gigginstown House Stud Gordon Elliott IRE/Brian O’Connell

30)42F-63F22 BECAUSEICOULDNTSEE (IRE) 9-10-03 Noel Glynn Noel Glynn IRE/Davy Condon

31)144/P3/4- STATE OF PLAY  12-10-03 William & Angela Rucker Evan Williams/Noel Fehily

32)2313P20 SWING BILL (FR)  11-10-03 David Johnson   David Pipe/Conor O’Farrell

33)FP-26611 POSTMASTER   10-10-02 The Bill & Ben Partnership Tim Vaughan/Dougie Costello

34)3/P22-121 GILES CROSS (IRE)  10-10-01 KCMS Partnership  Victor Dartnall/Paddy Brennan

35)21/10P-16 MIDNIGHT HAZE  10-10-00 Kim Bailey Racing Partnership Kim Bailey/Sean Quinlan

36)0044B-20 VIC VENTURI (IRE)  12-10-00 Seamus Dunne  Dessie Hughes IRE/Harry Skelton

37)431U0-P3 IN COMPLIANCE (IRE) 12-10-00 Dessie Hughes  Dessie Hughes IRE/Niall Madden

38)00-143P5 VIKING BLOND (FR)  7-10-00 Caroline Mould   Nigel Twiston-Davies/Brian Hughes

39)PP-5U654 HELLO BUD (IRE)  14-10-00 Seamus Murphy Nigel Twiston-Davies/Sam Twiston-Davies

40)0-315045 NEPTUNE EQUESTER  9-9-09  Koo's Racing Club  Brian Ellison/Felix de Giles

40 declared runners 15 Irish-trained

 

TODAY’S GOING 

 

Grand National course - Good to Soft, Good in places

This follows watering of selected areas last night, particularly around the 13th and 14th fences, with between three and five millimetres of water.

 

Mildmay - Chase & Hurdle - Good, Good to Soft in places

This follows watering of the courses last night, with between three and five millimetres applied.

 

On the Mildmay course, all bends have been moved in four yards to provide fresh ground on the inside today, while all hurdles have also been moved in four yards.

 

There will be further movement after racing today to provide more fresh ground tomorrow.

 

The weather forecast is:

 

Friday - Cloudy with sunny spells, possible showers. 11C.

 

Saturday - Dry and sunny morning, possible showers later. 10C.

 

 

 

CHANGE TO GOING BEFORE RACING

 

Grand National course - Good, Good to Soft in places (from Good to Soft, Good in places)

GoingStick reading: - 6.7

 

Mildmay course - Chase & Hurdle - Good, Good to Soft in places (remains the same)

GoingStick readings:- Chase (6.7), Hurdle (6.5).

 

Watering is likely to take place after racing today.

 

On the Mildmay course, all bends have been moved in four yards to provide fresh ground on the inside today, while all hurdles have also been moved in four yards.

 

There will be further movement after racing today to provide more fresh ground tomorrow.

 

The weather forecast is:

 

Friday - Cloudy with sunny spells, possible showers. 11C.

 

Saturday - Dry and sunny morning, possible showers later. 10C.

 

 

 

2012 JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL LANDMARKS

 

Youngest jockey: Sam Twiston-Davis (Hello Bud), 19, is two months younger than Bryan Cooper (Rare Bob), 19.

 

Oldest jockey: Andrew Thornton (Tatenen), 38

 

First-time jockeys: Bryan Cooper (Rare Bob), Dougie Costello (Postmaster), Harry Haynes (According To Pete), Felix de Giles (Neptune Equester), Brian O’Connell (Tharawaat), Conor O’Farrell (Swing Bill), Ms Katie Walsh (Seabass), Sean Quinlan (Midnight Haze)

 

Most-successful jockey: Ruby Walsh (On His Own) - 2 wins (2000 Papillon and 2005 Hedgehunter) from 10 rides

 

Other winning jockeys: Jason Maguire (Ballabriggs) - 2011 Ballabriggs, Tony McCoy (Synchronised) - 2010 Don’t Push It, Timmy Murphy (Weird Al) - 2008 Comply Or Die, Robbie Power (Killyglen) - 2007 Silver Birch, Niall Madden (In Compliance) - 2006 Numbersixvalverde, Barry Geraghty (Shakalakaboomboom) - 2003 Monty’s Pass, Paul Carberry (Chicago Grey) - 1999 Bobbyjo.

 

Least-successful jockey: Richard Johnson (Planet Of Sound), no wins from 15 rides

 

Youngest trainer: Gordon Elliott (Chicago Grey, Tharawaat), 34

 

Oldest trainer: Dessie Hughes (Black Apalachi, In Compliance, Rare Bob, Vic Venturi), 68

 

First-time trainers: Victor Dartnall (Giles Cross), Brian Ellison (Neptune Equester), John Hanlon (Alfa Beat), Tim Vaughan (Postmaster), John Wade (Always Right)

 

Most-successful trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies (Hello Bud and Viking Blond) - 2 wins (1998 Earth Summit and 2002 Bindaree) from 40 runners.

 

Other winning trainers: Donald McCain (Ballabriggs) - 2011 Ballabriggs, Jonjo O’Neill (Arbor Supreme, Sunnyhill Boy, Synchronised) - 2010 Don’t Push It, Venetia Williams (Mon Mome) - 2009 Mon Mome, David Pipe (Junior, Swing Bill) - 2008 Comply Or Die, Gordon Elliott (Chicago Grey, Tharawaat) - 2007 Silver Birch, Willie Mullins (On His Own, Qusicover Fontaine, The Midnight Club) - 2005 Hedgehunter, Ted Walsh (Seabass) - 2000 Papillon, Kim Bailey (Midnight Haze) - 1990 Mr Frisk

 

Least-successful trainer: Paul Nicholls (Neptune Collonges) - no wins from 52 runners

 

Former winners: Ballabriggs (2011), Mon Mome (2009)

 

Most-successful owner: Trevor Hemmings (Ballabriggs)  - 2 wins from 27 runners (Ballabriggs 2011 and Hedgehunter 2005)

 

Other winning owners: J P McManus (Arbor Supreme, Suynnyhill Boy, Synchronised) - 2010 Don’t Push It, Vida Bingham (Mon Mome) - 2009 Mon Mome, David Johnson (Swing Bill) - 2008 Comply Or Die.

 

Highest-earning horse: Neptune Collonges £766,407

 

Lowest-earning horse: Viking Blond £26,414

 

Most-experienced horse: Mon Mome 46 starts

 

Least-experienced horse: Cappa Bleu - 8 starts

 

 

JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL FACTS AND MILESTONES - PART ONE

 

Age - youngest

From this year, no horse younger than seven is permitted to take part. The most recent of the 22 seven-year-olds to have won was Bogskar in 1940. Three seven-year-olds are due to run this year: Organisedconfusion, Tharawaat and Viking Blond. The youngest of them is Organisedconfusion, foaled on May 9, 2005.

 

Age - oldest

The oldest grand National winners have been 15-year-old Peter Simple in 1853 and the 13-year-olds Sergeant Murphy in 1923 and Why Not in 1894. Two ‘teenagers’ are taking part this year, 14-year-old Hello Bud and 13-year-old Black Apalachi.

 

The only 14-year-old to be placed has been former winner Manifesto, third in 1902 (and again the following year at 15). The last 14-year-old to take part was former winner Amberleigh House, pulled up in 2006 and the last to complete was Camelot Knight, 15th in 2000.

 

The last 13-year-old to be placed was Rondetto in 1969 and the last to complete was former winner Amberleigh House, 10th in 2005. In the last 20 years, 23 13-year-olds have run, most recently Hello Bud, pulled up last year. 

 

There have been 10 winners aged 12, most recently Amberleigh House in 2004. There are three 12-year-olds running this year: 2009 winner Mon Mome, State Of Play and Vic Venturi.

 

There have been 16 winners aged 11, most recently Red Marauder in 2001. The seven 11-year-olds running this year are headed by last year’s winner Ballabriggs.

 

Greys

Only two greys have won: Nicolaus Silver (1961) and The Lamb (1868 & 1871). The most recent grey to be placed was 2008 runner-up King Johns Castle. There are four taking part this year: Neptune Collonges, Alfa Beat, Chicago Grey and Swing Bill.

 

Birthdays

Ted Walsh, trainer of Seabass, is 62 on John Smith’s Grand National day, which is also the actual 11th birthday of runner Deep Purple.

 

 

JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL FACTS AND MILESTONES - PART TWO

 

Amateurs

Amateur riders have won on 41 occasions, most recently Marcus Armytage on Mr Frisk in 1990. There are two amateurs riding this year, Katie Walsh on Seabass and Nina Carberry on Organisedconfusion.

 

Women

A woman rider has yet to win; 14 individuals have taken part on 19 occasions. Two ride this year, Katie Walsh on Seabass and Nina Carberry on Organisedconfusion. Walsh is making her debut; Carberry has completed on all her three rides (Forest Gunner 9th 2006, Character Building 7th 2010, Character Building 15th 2011).

The first woman to take part was Charlotte Brew in 1977 (Barony Fort, refused); the first to get round Geraldine Rees in 1982 (Cheers, 8th and last).

 

Siblings

Two sets of siblings have won Grand Nationals, the Rees brothers Dick (Shaun Spadah 1921) and Lewis (Music Hall 1922) and the Beasley brothers Tommy (Frigate 1889) and Harry (Come Away 1891).

Two brother-and-sister sets ride this year: Ruby Walsh (rides On His Own, previously winner on Papillon 2000 and Hedgehunter 2005 ) and his sister Katie (rides Seabass) and Paul Carberry (rides Chicago Grey, previously winner on Bobbyjo 1999) and Nina (rides Organisedconfusion). 

 

Owner-breds

The last owner-bred winner was Frank Gilman’s Grittar in 1982. There are four running for their breeders this year: Synchronised (J P McManus), Planet Of Sound (Charles Lloyd-Baker), According To Pete (Peter Nelson) and Giles Cross (Kay Birchenhough).

 

Weights

The last top-weight to win was Red Rum, who carried 11st 8lbs when he notched his third victory in 1977. Top-weights to have been placed since then have been Royal Mail (3rd 1981, 11st 7lb), Corbiere (3rd 1984, 12st), Corbiere (3rd 1985, 11st 10lb), West Tip (4th 1988 11st7lb), The Thinker (3rd 1989 11st 10lb), Suny Bay (2nd 1998 12st), Hedgehunter (2nd 2006 11st12lb) and Don’t Push It (3rd 2011 11st 10lb).

 

Favourites

In 164 runnings, only 26 favourites or joint-favourites have won, including two of the last four:  Don’t Push It, 10/1 joint-favourite in 2010 and Comply Or Die, 7/1 joint-favourite in 2008. The shortest-priced winner has been Poethlyn, the 11/4 favourite in 1919, and the shortest-priced  loser Golden Miller, 2/1 favourite when he unseated in 1935.

 

Outsiders

There have been five 100/1 winners: Tipperary Tim (1929), Gregalach (1929), Caughoo (1947), Foinavon (1967) and Mon Mome (2009).

 

NICHOLLS SET FOR A GOOD DAY, SAY BETFRED PUNTERS

 

Money channelled through Betfred, the official betting partner at Aintree’s John Smith’s Grand National meeting, suggests Paul Nicholls is the man to follow  today.

 

He and Nicky Henderson are engaged in a tight battle for the trainer’s championship, and after a good opening day on Thursday Nicholls has a lead of £110,000.

 

Betfred has seen support for a number of his Friday runners, beginning in the opening race with Prospect Wells (2.00) who has been cut from 4/1 to 7/2. The Charlie Longsdon-trained Vulcanite was also popular in this contest at 10/1 and was soon into 15/2.

 

Nicholls’ Silviniaco Conti (2.30) was clipped from 15/8 to 7/4, while his Poquelin (3.05) was shortened from 8/1 to 6/1 for a race in which Philip Hobbs’ Wishfull Thinking (11/1 to 9/1) was another mover.

 

Frankie Figg (3.40), in to 10/1 from 11/1, was another popular Nicholls’ candidate, although Henderson’s Bai Zhu was in demand at 22/1 and was soon trading at 16/1.

 

Kim Bailey’s novice hurdler Harry Topper (4.15) was another popular choice with Betfred this morning, but it was that man Nicholls again in relation to 

Like Minded (4.50) who was cut from 25/1 to 20/1. Other movers in this event were Donald McCain’s Bourne (5/1 from 13/2) and Jonjo O’Neill’s It’s A Gimme (7/2 from 9/2).

 

Neither Nicholls nor Henderson are represented in the bumper (5.25) in which McCain’s Doyly Carte (7/1 from 8/1), Martin Keighley’s Flementime (8/1 from 9/1) and Willie Mullins’ Dr Machini (11/1 from 12/1) gained morning money.

 

BROTHER’S THE WORD FOR FIRST-TIMER KATIE

Katie Walsh has been gearing up for her John Smith’s Grand National debut ride with a little help from big brother Ruby.

 

They walked the course together yesterday, but what he said and what she has learned is a secret for now. At a press conference today Katie said: “Ruby gave me a few pointers on the way round, but what he said is between Ruby and me only - that’s part of my competitive streak.”

 

Katie partners Seabass, who is trained by her father Ted for a group of friends called The Gunners Syndicate. She is one of two women amateur riders in the big race - the other is her sister-in-law, Nina Carberry, who rides Organisedconfusion.

 

Tomorrow’s race will be Katie’s third over the National fences, but she has yet to get round. She said: “I rode Pomme Tiepy in the Topham here two years ago but she turned over at the first and then I came back for the November meeting that year and parted company from Battlefront so I’m hoping it’s third time lucky.

 

“I’m looking forward to it - it’s a great opportunity and I might never have a ride in the race again so I just want to enjoy the whole thing. [As women riders] We’re not treated any differently and we wouldn’t expect to be, but at some stage a woman is going to win a Classic on the Flat or the Grand National and I just hope it’s me.

 

“I wouldn’t swop Seabass for anything else - I don’t know if he will stay the trip but he has won a point-to-point over three miles and he jumps well enough. I’d like to have a bit of daylight over the first three fences and hope to be in the first six or eight horses - after that anything can happen.

 

“It’s just a long-distance chase and you can’t treat it any differently. It’s just a four-and-a-half mile chase over fences and that’s the way I have to think about it.

 

“I watched the hunters yesterday and it all happens so quickly that you would have to go back and watch it all again, but you couldn’t help noticing some of the best jumpers can fall and any rider can unseat.

 

“I came over here on Wednesday night and of course you can’t help but be aware that tomorrow’s race is something special because of all the cameras and media, but that’s part of the excitement of the whole thing.”

 

BIRTHDAY BOY TED WALSH HOPING SEABASS WILL BE CATCH OF THE DAY

 

Trainer and broadcaster Ted Walsh has already won the John Smith’s Grand National with Papillon (2000), ridden by his son Ruby, and he is hoping that his daughter Katie can add to the family’s roll of honour when she partners Seabass in the race tomorrow on the trainer’s 62nd birthday.

 

Seabass, a nine-year-old son of Turtle Island who races for the six-strong Gunners Syndicate, has had his fair share of setbacks through his racing career and has had to endure two spells on the sidelines with minor tendon trouble. However, he comes to Aintree in fine form, with six consecutive victories under Rules (seven if you take into account a point-to-point) to his name, including the Grade Two paddypower.com Chase at Naas in February on his most recent outing, despite a 21-month absence from the racecourse between his victories at Fairyhouse in February, 2010, and a winning resumption in a point-to-point at Ballinaboola in November, 2011.

 

“He had a touch of a leg as a six-year-old then ran well at Naas and Conmel,” said his trainer. “He had a touch of a leg again after Fairyhouse and needed 12 to 14 months off but because it came at the end of the season he ended up not being able to run for much longer than that.”

 

Walsh added: “Katie rides him quite a bit at home and was due to ride him in the point-to-point but she was concussed in the previous race so Peter Flood rode him and he beat Saddlers Storm, a highly-rated horse of Tony Martin’s.

 

“I thought he’d go up eight or nine pounds and get into the Paddy Power Gold Cup after his win at Punchestown but despite going up he still didn’t get into the race so he went to Limnerick and ran well for Katie. He then ran well at Leopardstown and that’s when we started thinking about the Grand National.”

 

The members of the Gunners Syndicate, most of whom are Arsenal supporters, hail from the west of Ireland and have been looking forward to the horse’s appearance at Aintree.

 

Walsh said: “I told them to take a holiday and come over here early to make sure they experience it all. It may never happen again. There’s only one National and this is the one. Everybody concerned with the horse was anxious to come.

 

“Seabass is not so exposed as Papillon was but he’s clever enough and brave enough. He has survived quite a bit in his life and he’s only 16.1 hands high but he has a good pop in him. I don’t know whether he’ll get four and a half miles but that’s the same for many horses in the field. 

 

“He travelled over on Wednesday and had a walk and hack round the course yesterday morning with Katie and lit up a bit. I’d hate to see him going to sleep or boiling over - you want it [being at Aintree] to light them up a bit.”

 

With Ruby booked to ride On His Own for Willie Mullins, Ted maintains that he is delighted that Katie, who has won twice on Seabass but is having her first attempt at the National, takes the ride again.

 

He said: “Unless something happened there was always going to be a Walsh on his back. I just hope that this young lady comes back with a smile on her face wherever they finish. Anything else is a bonus.”

 

 

 

JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL MEETING, AINTREE

RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE

LADIES’ DAY, FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012

 

A SELL-OUT LADIES’ DAY 

 

Today’s attendance on the second day of the John Smith’s Grand National meeting - Ladies’ Day - came to 53,461. 

 

Ladies’ Day was a sell-out early this week and follows a record crowd on the first day of the meeting yesterday - Liverpool Day - of 30,340.

 

Julian Thick, Managing Director of Aintree Racecourse, said: “It has been a fantastic day  and we are now looking forward to another sold-out occasion, John Smith’s Grand National day, tomorrow.”

 

SELECTIVE WATERING

 

Clerk of the Course Andrew Tulloch is conducting selective watering of all courses overnight to maintain ground conditions as Good, Good to Soft in places.

 

FIRST RACE - TANGLE TEEZER TOP NOVICES’ HURDLE - WINNER QUOTES

 

1-2-4 FOR HENDERSON IN OPENER

 

It may be a Friday the 13th, but luck was in for Nicky Henderson in the opening Tangle Teezer Top Novices Hurdle and Darlan gained compensation for his second spot in the Supreme Novices Hurdle at Cheltenham, with his stablemates Captain Conan and Oscara Dara in second and fourth spots. Both the first two overcame the disadvantage of a slow early pace.

 

“We knew beforehand that there was likely to be no pace,” said Henderson, “and that it would probably turn into a bit of a dash, and that’s just the way it turned out so full credit to the first two for the way they pulled clear. It’s not easy to quicken up to sprint and they’re both very nice horses indeed.

 

“As far as Darlan is concerned, we’ve only brushed at it so far with him. He’s a big weakish sort of horse with a load of physical development left in him yet. We’ve now got the summer to think of a programme for him for next year,but I’d think he’d stick to hurdles.”

 

Before Cheltenham, Darlan had seemed poised for victory in the Betfair Hurdle at Newbury before falling two out, an incident which his rider Tony McCoy feels he still remembers. “He’s always been a horse we’ve thought a lot of,” he said, “but he took a very heavy fall at Newbury which I think really knocked his confidence. At Cheltenham he got a bit far back in the race and stayed on to get second place and so today I wanted to ride him a bit handier.

 

“It was good that he won today, but neither here nor at Cheltenham did he jump as well as he had done at Newbury before he fell. He gave me a better feel over the hurdles that day than either of the days since. But what he does do is travel and stay and he’s shown today he can quicken as well, which they can’t all do off a slow pace. He’s got a bit of size and scope, too, so if he doesn’t make the top grade as a hurdler then there will be the option of chasing open to him in due course.”

 

The winning owner J P McManus said: “It was nice to win a big race with him. He was unfortunate at Newbury, when he took that heavy fall and, looking at him, he still probably remembers it a little bit. He’s getting his act together again now and that was very pleasing.

 

“Nicky has done a great job - I thought that Darlan looked great today - and, considering that he has run so many times, I was very happy with his condition. A P said that he was workmanlike today and he was pleased. 

 

“He’s done his quota for this season and I am sure that he will have a rest.”

 

Referring to his John Smith’s Grand National favoiurite, Synchronised, he added: “I left the decision to run up to Jonjo and he was very keen that he would run. Normally they are a bit tired after winning the Gold Cup but he ate up that night and I would say that he is even better now.”

 

                                               

First race - Tangle Teezer Top Novices’ Hurdle

Placed quotes

 

STIFFER TEST PROBABLY BEST FOR PROSPECT WELLS

 

Paul Nicholls’ lead in the trainer’s championship took a dent in this race when Nicky Henderson saddled the first, second and fourth, but at least the champion had a consolatory third with Prospect Wells.

 

The seven-year-old son of Sadler’s Wells, carrying Ruby Walsh in the colours of Andrea & Graham Wylie, was further behind winner Darlan compared to their running in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, and Nicholls admitted: “I’m slightly disappointed - a stiffer track and a faster-run race might suit him.

 

“I had him in the two-and-a-half miler and couldn’t make up my mind which race to run him in and as he gets older he might appreciate further. He’s run consistently well all season.

 

“Next season he could be a horse to run in races like the Greatwood Hurdle or Ladbroke and the type of events where they go flat out and it’s a bit rough and tough. He could probably do with a break now.”

 

JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL MEETING, AINTREE

RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE

LADIES’ DAY, FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012

 

Second race - John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase

Winner’s quotes

CONTI LOOKS A KING GEORGE HORSE FOR NEXT SEASON

Paul Nicholls hit straight back after Nicky Henderson’s near whitewash in the opener when he saddled the first and third in this Grade Two novices’ chase.

 

Silviniaco Conti, the mount of Ruby Walsh, ran out a comfortable winner from the Martin Keighley-trained Champion Court, while stable companion Join Together battled on for third.

 

Both the winning trainer and jockey felt Kempton’s King George VI Chase would be a logical long-term goal for the six-year-old, and Nicholls said: “He was obviously wrong when he ran at Ascot [in February] because he travelled like the winner and then stopped suddenly, but all our horses were out of form then.

 

“We missed Cheltenham with him on purpose because I don’t think he’s a Cheltenham horse physique-wise at the moment. We made this his target and he got it spot on.

 

“He travelled and jumped as well as he’s ever done and he’s maturing all the time. He will be really interesting next season and we’ll have to aim for the King George because a flat track suits him.”

 

Of Join Together, Nicholls said: “He ran nicely enough. He disappointed me when he last ran and I didn’t want to end the season with him having pulled up. Last year he pulled up at the Festival over hurdles and when he went there and won at the start of this season he just thought about pulling up going past the stands, so I wanted to end on a positive note.

 

“He stayed on alright, but he’ll never be in the same league as Conti. That said he’ll give his owners a lot of fun and he’ll be the type for those long-distance staying chases. He could end up in the National one day although he’ll need luck with the handicapper to be effective in that.”

SECOND RACE WINNING QUOTES

JOHN SMITH’S MILDMAY NOVICES’ CHASE

 

RUBY SHINES ON SILVINIACO

 

Jockey Ruby Walsh feels that Silviniaco Conti could be an ideal contender for next year’s Betfred Bowl at Aintree after winning the John Smith’s Melling Chase in good style.

 

“It was a good performance - he jumped really well and travelled really well. I thought that (runner-up) Champion Court was a good yardstick and he has beaten him really well,” said Walsh.

 

“I don’t know whether three and a quarter miles on a track like Cheltenham would suit him and he might be more of a King George horse or maybe the Bowl here next April. He’s going the right way, anyway.”

 

Part-owner Chris Giles, who is represented by Zarkandar in tomorrow’s John Smith’s Aintree Hurdle, added: “We bypassed Cheltenham to concentrate on today and he turned up for us. I bought into him last year - Jared Sullivan was the original owner - and I am delighted to have come in on the horse. 

 

“I think the decision to miss Cheltenham has paid off. I think that he prefers a flat track - he ran well in the Feltham at Kempton - and he loved it out there today. 

 

“We have Zarkandar tomorrow and he has come on a bit since Cheltenham, when he was a little bit light. I think that he will be fit and ready to go. It looked like he wanted a bit further in the Champion Hurdle and we are very excited.” 

 

Second race - The John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase - placed quotes

 

TRIP STILL A QUERY FOR BRIDESMAID 

CHAMPION COURT

 

The John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase runner-up Champion Court was stepping up to three miles and a furlong after his good second-place finish to Sir Des Champs over two and a half miles in the Jewson Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham last month and trainer Martin Keighley is still undecided about the best distance for his talented chaser.

 

He said: “Alain [Cawley, jockey] said he felt a bit flat and maybe the Cheltenham race has taken a bit out of him. He still ran a mighty race and it’s a job to know about the trip. He does seem happier bowling along in front so perhaps we ought to drop him back to two and a half miles.

 

“He’ll have a holiday now and we’ll think about next season. He’ll have one run and then go to the King George and we can decide on his trip.”

 

 

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Third race - The John Smith’s Melling Chase - winner’s quotes

 

FINIAN’S RAINBOW OFF FOR A BREAK AFTER WNNING ‘ALL THE MEDALS’

 

Finian’s Rainbow was one of Nicky Henderson’s magnificent seven at the Cheltenham Festival and Michael Buckley’s lightly-raced nine-year-old followed up his Queen Mother Champion Chase victory with a seven-length win in the John Smith’s Melling Chase.

 

His delighted trainer said: “Last year as a novice, Finian’s Rainbow was trying to do everything in a terrible rush. He was only quieter here last year because he had had such a hard race in the Arkle at Cheltenham. 

He grew up last summer for some reason and seemed to become a sensible person. This season has been a much more amenable horse all the way through, doing everything as he should rather than as quickly as possible. 

 

“You always hoped he would stay, but obviously last year he looked an out-and-out two-miler because he was doing everything in such a rush, but today he was always in a nice position and when Barry (Geraghty, jockey) switched him on he picked them up very quickly. 

 

“We’ve got all summer to think about what route we take next year, but he has won the Champion Chase and the Melling Chase so he goes to bed with all the medals.”

 

Michael Buckley, who also counts Solix and Spirit River among his horses in training with Henderson, commented: “Finian’s Rainbow is a pretty special horse. I wasn’t concerned about stepping up to two and a half miles as he is very relaxed now and acts like the stayer we always thought he would be.

 

“That was really thrilling. He’s had his doubters but I hope that’s been put to sleep now. He was very keen last year and the year before and that made him difficult to ride and also for him to see out the trip.

 

“He became a much more amenable creature over the summer and you could go up to him in the field whereas before he’d always walk away from you.

 

“We always thought that if he settled he’d stay more than two miles. I think he out-stayed Sizing Europe up the hill at Cheltenham. I don’t agree with the opinion that it was only the fact that they bypassed the last fence that enabled him to win.

 

“Now we have lots of options for next year and we’ll maybe even try three miles at some point. As he gets older he’s inevitably going to want a longer trip if he can get it.”

 

Asked whether Finian’s Rainbow would take up his entry in the Punchestown Champion Chase on April 24, Buckley added: “I did say to Nicky that if he was to win easily here that maybe we could go to Ireland and duff up Sizing Europe again but there was a big groan at the other end of the telephone. I’m sure that will be it now for him for this season but he does have very few miles on the clock - he’s only raced 14 times in his life.”

 

 

THIRD RACE WINNING QUOTES

JOHN SMITH’S MELLING CHASE (GRADE 1)

 

GERAGHTY DELIGHTED

 

Jockey Barry Geraghty was delighted with Finian’s Rainbow after easily winning the John Smith’s Melling Chase aboard the nine-year-old.

 

“He made one or two mistakes early on and I’d say the ground had gone a bit soft for him,” said Geraghty. “He’s settling better these days and therefore he’s finishing his races better.

 

“He really came alive in the straight today and he won well. It was a good Champion Chase that he won at Cheltenham and I’m delighted he showed today that he wasn’t a lucky winner in that race.” 

 

 

THIRD RACE - JOHN SMITH’S MELLING CHASE - RUNNER-UP QUOTES

 

WISHFULL BACK TO HIS BEST

 

Wishfull Thinking, who took a dramatic fall when leading the field early in the race for the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham, produced his best performance of the season when chasing home the two-mile champion Finian’s Rainbow in today John Smith’s Melling Chase. 

 

“Delighted with that,” said trainer Philip Hobbs. “The winner is a very good horse. It’s taken us all season to get ours back to his best, though goodness knows why. It’s been a bit of a frustrating season all round but it seems to be coming together now.”

 

At Cheltenham, Wishfull Thinking fell sideways through the rails after the fence, but the incident did not affect his confidence as he jumped straight and true today. “We had him schooling soon after Cheltenham and he was absolutely fine,” added Hobbs.

 

Wishfull Thinking won at the Punchestown festival last year after taking the Manifesto Novices’ Chase at Aintree. “We’ll see how he is before we decide whether to go again,” said Hobbs, “There’s not so long between the meetings this year.”

 

Hobbs, who took this year’s Manifesto Novices’Chase on Thursday with Menorah (like Wishfull Thinking owned by Diana Whateley), reports his Somerset stable’s John Smith’s Grand National candidate Planet Of Sound in good form. “The drying ground will help him,” he said.

 

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Third race - John Smith’s Melling Chase

Placed quotes

 

BRAVE ALBERTAS WILL BE GIVEN A WELL-EARNED BREAK

 

Brave Albertas Run, who was bidding for a second win in this Grade One contest, had to settle for third behind winner Finian’s Rainbow.

 

Albertas Run won the race in 2010 and was second to Master Minded last year, and while he was beaten 27 lengths by the winner today it may prove to have been his gutsiest performance in the contest.

 

Trainer Jonjo O’Neill fears the 11-year-old may have been feeling an injury that has troubled him in the past, for he said: “His old problem, a touch of a leg, was probably just bothering him.”

 

Albertas Run gave his all when a close second to Finian’s Rainbow in the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham, but O’Neill did not believe that had left its mark on his performance today.

 

O’Neill said: “He didn’t jump as well as he can do and he was never really looking like the winner. He’s run well enough and done us all proud, but he won’t run again this season. In three runs this year he’s finished first, second and third, so we’ve no complaints.”

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FOURTH RACE WINNING QUOTES

JOHN SMITH’S TOPHAM CHASE

 

RECORD-BREAKING WAINING

 

    The Peter Bowen-trained Always Waining entered the history books when landing an unprecedented third consecutive John Smith’s Topham Chase over the Grand National fences after he came home four and a half lengths clear of Chance Du Roy.

 

The 11-year-old has been disappointing over hurdles this season and owner Peter Douglas had only decided on Thursday morning to miss the John Smith’s Grand National in favour of today’s race.

 

“It’s sets him alight as soon as he steps off the box here but he’s as flat as a pancake everywhere else. He loves this place and hates every other place,” said Bowen. “You never know what might have happened in the National but it’s some achievement to win three Tophams.

 

“We were very close to running in the National, Peter rang yesterday morning and said he’d prefer to go for the Topham in case the ground became soft. I’d have preferred to go for the National but wasn’t going to disagree, you can’t persuade an owner to run a horse in the National if he doesn’t want to, and I’m glad we’ve gone for the Topham now. Peter just thought that four and a half miles on soft ground would be too far for him.

 

“We have been racing him over hurdles because we thought that if we’d run him over fences he’d have gone down the weights and not got in the National. Over hurdles they go a bit quick for him but he just loves these fences.

 

“I can’t get inside his head, he doesn’t want to know anywhere else. He also finished fourth in the Becher here when the ground was totally unsuitable for him.

 

“For an 11-year-old that ran on the Flat as well, it is amazing that he has lasted so well. He’ll probably have the same prep next season as he has had for the past three years and maybe go for the Becher. The thing is to not get disappointed with him over hurdles. Last time out I thought ‘bloody hell he’s disappointing’.  We’ve had a long losing spell with coughing as well so it doesn’t do much for your confidence. My son Micky has ridden him out every day for the past three years and loves him. This has made our season.”

 

Jockey Tom O’Brien added: “He's absolutely amazing. He gives everyone who rides him a great spin around here and I'm delighted with that. He hears the crowd and he just takes off. I knew Chance Du Roy would take some passing as I won on him last time. It's hard to win big races these days. It's amazing to get a big one on the board.

 

“I’ve won two Tophams on him and he’ll hopefully he’ll be in one piece to come here and give it a go next year. He just seems to save his best for this place.”

 

Trainer’s wife Karen Bowen added: “I believed Always Waining was capable of winning, but to think of winning three Topham Chases on the bounce, you just don’t think it can come true. He was coming into the race in good form again, although his form hasn’t suggested it, but he does come to himself at this time of the year.

 

Owner Peter Doulgas said: “I wasn’t relaxed at all watching that because Peter’s (Bowen) been going on such a bad run with his horses, but to win here and get out of a ruck like that is fantastic.

 

“We had the choice of running in the Grand National which we didn’t have last year, but we thought the ground had gone against us with the rain. However, the ground has been drying all week so we are kicking ourselves, but this is great compensation.

 

 

ALWAYS WAINING (IRE) FACTFILE - RECORD THREE-TIME WINNER OF THE JOHN SMITH’S TOPHAM CHASE

b g Unfuwain (USA)-Glenarff (USA) (Irish River (FR))

Jump Form: 44111/040P001/24P41131d/1320000/1P641PPP4P/550F0F0P1/0060041-044001

Owner: Linda & Peter Douglas Trainer: Peter Bowen Jockey: Tom O’Brien Breeder: Barouche Stud Ireland

 

Always Waining

As an Unfuwain half-brother to the 1999 Derby fourth Housemaster, Always Waining was bred to be a useful Flat performer but it has been over the big fences at Aintree that he has enjoyed his finest moments, winning the John Smith’s Topham Chase in 2010 and 2011. The 11-year-old made only 9,000gns as a yearling and won three times on the level with Mark Johnston, at one stage achieving a decent rating of 96. He was claimed by Pat Clinton for £30,000 after winning a Newmarket claiming race in October 2004 and won three hurdle races that winter. He moved to trainer Robert Stronge in early 2006, before joining Peter Bowen a year later, and the following season yielded a victory in a Bangor handicap hurdle and, sent chasing in the 2006/07 campaigned he scored three times. His next victory came at Aintree in June, 2008, in a 3m 1f handicap hurdle and he kept going that summer and won a Listed handicap chase at Market Rasen in September. He finished fourth in the 2009 John Smith’s Topham Chase and after falling in the Grand Sefton Handicap Chase over the same fences in November, 2009, he prevailed in the 2010 John Smith’s Topham Chase, scoring by 12 lengths from Scotsirish under Brian Hughes. After missing the cut in last year’s John Smith’s Grand National, Always Waining won the shorter contest again last year, finishing four lengths in front of Mon Parrain, with Tom O’Brien in the saddle. This season he finished a distant fourth in the Betfred Becher Chase at Aintree in December and most recently was well-beaten in Bangor handicap hurdle on March 24. He returned to form in spectacular style today, coming away from his rivals for a record third John Smith’s Topham Chase victory, again under O’Brien. The winning margin was four and a half lengths and his starting price was 11/1.

Race Record: Starts: 59; 1st: 12; 2nd: 2; 3rd: 2; Win & Place prize money: £252,168

 

Lina & Peter Douglas

Peter Douglas boasts a racehorse ownership career spanning more than two decades with one of his early flagbearers being Salwan, a useful novice hurdler ridden by Robert Stronge, who at one stage trained Always Waining. His early trainers also included Peter Bevan, Bill Clay, Jenny Pitman and Andy Streeter. Douglas, who is based near Uttoxeter in Staffordshire, is founder of the PJD Group. The company, based at Castle Donington near Derby, has developed from his Peter J Douglas Engineering business into one of Britain’s leading independent mechanical engineering companies. Douglas is a longstanding sponsor at his local racecourse, Uttoxeter, and paraded Always Waining on the PJD Group raceday at the Staffordshire track in May. 

 

Peter Bowen (Letterston, Pembrokeshire, Wales)

Born on June 9, 1958, Peter Bowen is married to Karen and has three sons, Michael (who began riding in point-to-points in April, 2012 on Iron Man), Sean and James. The son of a haulier and a village postmistress, Bowen trains at Letterston near Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales, and took out his first trainer’s licence in 1995, having previously been a livery yard proprietor and hugely successful point-to-point handler. He won the Elite Hurdle at Wincanton the following November with Dreams End and the same horse took the Kingwell Hurdle at the Somerset course in February, 1997. A big race hat-trick was completed by Dreams End in the Swinton Handicap Hurdle at Haydock later in the same year. Another horse that he did well with early in his training career was Iffee, whom he saddled to win the Durham National at Sedgefield in 1996. The 1996/1997 campaign saw Bowen set a modern-day record with Stately Home, winner of 10 races that season including the Grade One Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase at Sandown Park. He captured the Badger Ales Handicap Chase at Wincanton in both 2002 and 2003 with Swansea Bay and the same horse won the Edward Hanmer Memorial Chase at Haydock, also in 2003. His stable stars have included Take The Stand and Ballycassidy. The former was second to Kicking King in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2005 and finished fifth in the 2006 renewal, the highest placing by a British-trained horse. Ballycassidy, a winner of 15 races who ran in the John Smith’s Grand National three times and showed up well on the second and third occasions before being found out. Bowen had his highest-ever number of winners in the 2006/2007 season, with 72 successes, including Dunbrody Millar in the John Smith’s Topham Chase, a race Bowen also captured in 2001 with Gower Slave and with record-breaking Always Waining in 2010, 2011 & 2012. Bowen has also enjoyed Grade One success with Snoopy Loopy in the 2008 Betfair Chase and with Souffleur in the 2007 Challow Hurdle. He went close to John Smith’s Grand National success in 2007 when McKelvey was the three-quarter length runner-up to Silver Birch.

Tom O’Brien

Tom O’Brien, who was born on November 28, 1986, set a record for the conditional riders’ championship in the 2006/07 season with 107 successes. His father Jim is a brother of the brilliant trainer Aidan O’Brien and plays a key role at his Ballydoyle stable in Co Tipperary. From the age of 13, Tom rode out at weekends and in school holidays at Ballydoyle, aboard champions such as High Chaparral, Rock Of Gibraltar and Mozart. He joined Philip Hobbs’s stable as a 17-year-old, initially riding as an amateur and in point-to-points and had his first success aboard The Names Bond at Warwick on December 18, 2004. The rider has also established a useful association with trainer Peter Bowen, for whom he finished second aboard McKelvey when having his first John Smith’s Grand National ride in 2007.O’Brien forged a formidable partnership with the Mick Quinlan-trained Silk Affair, winning the Fred Winter Juvenile Novices’ Handicap Hurdle at the 2009 Cheltenham Festival while the Hobbs-trained Dream Alliance in the Coral Welsh National in December, 2009. He rode Always Waining to victory in both the 2011 & 2012 runnings of the John Smith’s Topham Chase at Aintree.

 

FOURTH RACE - JOHN SMITH’S TOPHAM CHASE - RUNNER-UP QUOTES

 

ANOTHER CHANCE NEXT YEAR

 

On his first attempt at the unique Grand National fences, Chance Du Roy acquitted himself with utmost credit, beating all bar course specialist Always Waining in the John Smith’s Topham Chase. “He was neat and clever all the way,” said rider Richard Johnson. “He wouldn’t be the biggest of horses but he really enjoyed himself, ran out of his skin.

 

“It’s great fun riding those fence on a horse who takes to them. Let’s hope Planet Of Sound [his John Smith’s Grand National mount] does as well.”

 

Chance Du Roy is likely to be back at Aintree next year for a second tilt at the two and three-quarter mile Grade 3 contest. “He’s been a fantastic horse for us,” said trainer Philip Hobbs of the eight-year-old. “This is his sort of distance and perhaps softer ground would have helped. It’s difficult to beat a horse [Always Waining] who only seems to come to life here, and so is probably very well handicapped. I should think ours will be back for another crack in a year’s time.”

 

Fourth race - John Smith’s Topham Chase

Placed quotes

 

FIRST-TIMER SMITH SO PROUD OF AIMIGAYLE

 

Sussex trainer Suzy Smith had never run a horse over Aintree’s National fences, so she was thrilled that Aimigayle finished fourth in the John Smith’s Topham Chase.

 

The Colin Bolger-ridden mare was prominent for much of the trip until fading on the run-in.

 

Smith said: “That was such a thrill and Colin gave her a great ride. She really took to the fences as we hoped she would, but she just got a little bit stuck in the rain-softened ground.

 

“She really wants top of the ground. Colin said he felt she might win turning for home, but then the ground began to have an effect and she couldn’t quicken off it.

 

“This is the first time we’ve run any horse over these fences and she’s been a good mare for us so she’s very precious, but she’s a big mare and we always thought she would be suited to Aintree.”

 

Aimigayle’s rating of 129 before today’s race means she would probably struggle to get a run in the John Smith’s Grand National, but that could be a goal, said Smith.

 

“There is a question as to whether she would stay the trip in the National, but looking at that we would have to consider it,” said Smith. “She was staying on  so well - in an ideal world we would want a three-mile National!”

 

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FIFTH RACE - JOHN SMITH’S SEFTON NOVICES’ HURDLE - WINNER QUOTES

 

TOUGH LOVCEN THE ANSWER 

 

Lovcen stepped up on his fourth place at the Cheltenham Festival to take the John Smith’s Sefton Novices’ Hurdle, rather to the surprise of his trainer Alan King. “I thought he’d be competitive,” he said, “but I honestly didn’t expect him to win. We’d been pleased with what he did at Cheltenham and came here hoping, not expecting. But he’s a tough horse, some tough horse. It all looked hard work - he was off the bridle for a long way -but I suspect that he wasn’t actually doing much once in front.”

 

That observation was confirmed by rider Robert Thornton after the Grade 1 three-miler. “He did everything I asked,” he said, “but I had to keep asking. He didn’t offer me anything extra, which I’d rather liked him to have done. It was all hard work, harder than at Cheltenham. The start was a bit of a mess and I was further back than I’d have liked to have been, but the race did open up and came back to me.”

Lovcen, German-bred by Tiger Hill (also sire of third-placed Cotton Mill), carries the colours of the Barbary Apes, a group of King’s regular patrons, all of them friends. “We needed to find an owner for him half-way through the season,” said King, “and they clubbed together to come to the rescue.”

 

Lovecen is unlikely to run again this season. “He’ll go novice chasing next season,” said King, “he’s already won a point-to-point.”

 

Fifth race - John Smith’s Sefton Novices’ Hurdle

Placed quotes

 

HOBBS PONDERS FINGAL BAY OPTION AFTER FIRST DEFEAT

Fingal Bay’s perfect racing record was brought to an end by Lovcen in this three-mile Grade One hurdle, but the six-year-old remains one of the most promising horses in training.

 

Fingal Bay was beaten a length and three-quarters by the Alan King-trained Lovcen after they took part in a sustained duel more or less along the long home straight. The only challenge to them from that point was third-placed Cotton Mill, who was shrugged off before the final hurdle and finished 11 lengths behind Fingal Bay.

 

Trainer Philip Hobbs had every reason to feel frustration, for this was his third runner-up in successive races following second spots for Wishfull Thinking and Chance Du Roy.

 

He said jockey Richard Johnson felt he may have hit the front too soon on Fingal Bay and added: “Maybe, but only maybe, the horse didn’t quite get home. He travelled so well and it’s easy in hindsight, but of course it’s disappointing to see him beaten for the first time.

 

“We don’t have many options now, because Punchestown is only just over a fortnight so he’s unlikely to go there, but we’ll see how he is. We’re a bit short of time.

 

“He’s likely to start next season over fences, possibly over two miles six furlongs or something similar, but I’m sure he will want three miles in time.”

 

Fifth  race - The John Smith’s Sefton Novices’ Hurdle - placed quotes

 

‘NEW BOY’ FERGUSON DELIGHTED WITH COTTON MILL

 

John Ferguson’s five-year-old Cotton Mill crashed through the wings of the second-last hurdle when in contention in the Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival but bounced back from that mishap with a good third to Lovcen and Fingal Bay in the John Smith’s Sefton Novices’ Hurdle.

 

Ferguson, better known as Sheikh Mohammed’s bloodstock adviser, was flanked in the winner’s enclosure by a large posse from Newmarket, including Tattersalls chairman Edmond Mahony and Darley’s director of stallions Sam Bullard.

 

He said: “I was delighted with that. I’ll never really understand what happened at Cheltenham but that’s behind us now. The important thing is he’s run very well.

 

“The shower earlier probably didn’t help him. The ground became a little bit tacky and he’d probably prefer it a little bit sharper but I’m delighted - we’re the new boys.”

 

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Sixth  race - The John Smith’s Daily Mirror Punters’ Club Hurdle - winner’s quotes

 

DOUBLE DOUBLE DELIGHT FOR MALCOLM JEFFERSON

 

Malton trainer Malcolm Jefferson pulled off the remarkable feat of bringing his two Cheltenham Festival handicap winners to Aintree and producing them on song once again for their respective Liverpool targets, with Cape Tribulation winning yesterday’s Silver Cross Handicap Hurdle and Attaglance following up today in the John Smith’s Daily Mirror Punters’ Club Hurdle.

 

Attaglance cruised through to challenge for the lead at the final hurdle and outbattled Tour d’Argent on the run-in to win by a length and three-quarters to record a hat-trick of victories.

 

Jefferson said: “That was unbelievable. He was never really on the bridle but they go such a gallop in these races. He battled on really well, he’s just really genuine.

 

“He’s such a straightforward horse - he -works well at home and eats well. He came home from Cheltenham and went into his grub and yate up straight away. Cape Tribulation had a hard race yesterday but got home last night and licked his bowl clean. 

 

“I just kept them ticking over after Cheltenham. They’re both fit horses so we don’t gallop the guts out of them. I only need to know how fast they can go once - the rest of the time it’s just about keeping them happy.

 

“This fellow’s won four this year and there aren’t many horses who can win four handicaps.”

 

Winning jockey Harry Haynes, who has his first ride in the John Smith’s Grand National tomorrow aboard the Jefferson-trained According To Pete, said: “It’s a brilliant training performance from Malcolm Jefferson to get Attaglance to win at Cheltenham and then to come here and wins as well - there aren’t many that do it. I wasn’t able to claim in this race so technically he is 8lbs higher than he was at Cheltenham. 

 

“He has showed great determination because he never travelled a yard and I thought I would struggle to complete the race turning down the back because he was just coming off the bridle. I can’t thank the owners enough for putting me on at Cheltenham and here today. 

 

“Today is a warm-up for tomorrow and I’m pleased I came here today to get a feel of the place. Hopefully everything continues to go our way as it seems to be going our way at the moment.”

 

 

Sixth race - John Smith’s Daily Mirror Punters’ Club Handicap Hurdle

Placed quotes

 

HAYNES GRATEFUL FOR DOUBLE OPPORTUNITY

 

After completing a special double-double by scoring on Cape Tribulation and Attaglance (this race’s winner) at the Cheltenham Festival and again at the John Smith’s Grand National meeting, jockey Harry Haynes was understandably overjoyed.

 

Tomorrow he could rise to another level, when riding According To Pete in the big race - all three horses are trained by Malcolm Jefferson.

 

Haynes said: “It has been a brilliant training performance by Mr Jefferson - not many can do it. This horse [Attaglance] went up 5lb for winning at Cheltenham, but I couldn’t claim in the race so effectively he was up 8lb.

 

“He’s all guts and determination, because he never travelled a yard and I was struggling to even complete the race going down the back straight because he was off the bridle. From that point I couldn’t see him winning, but he’s so brave and wants it so much.

 

“I’m so grateful to the owners for even considering me for the ride. Today was a good warm-up to get a feel for the place and I just hope everything goes our way again tomorrow with According To Pete.”

 

SCUDAMORE EYES FRENCH POTS

 

Michael Scudamore’s big-money buy Saphir River showed the promise that created his price tag when finishing fourth in the John Smith’s Daily Mirror Punters’ Club Hurdle.

 

Scudamore, who trains the horse for owner Stephen Evans, a Liverpudlian who was delighted to have reached Aintree’s winner’s enclosure, said: “He unseated at the second at Cheltenham so to run so well on what was effectively his first run in Britain was really pleasing. 

 

“Paul [Carberry] was very complimentary about him. The horse takes a bit of settling and he felt that if he could have got the inside a bit sooner he might just have got third. The plan is to go to Auteuil for a couple of runs this summer - on June 10 there is a suitable race over two and a half miles - but the long-term plan is to send him chasing.”

 

SIXTH RACE - JOHN SMITH’S DAILY MIRROR PUNTERS CLUB HANDICAP HURDLE - PLACED QUOTES

 

LOS NADIS SUCH A BATTLER 

 

Rider Ryan Mania paid tribute to the determination of Los Nadis after the trailblazing little chestnut’s third place in the John Smith’s Daily Mirror Punters’ Club Handicap Hurdle. “The first two went past me so easily,” he said, “and I thought that was it, we’d be swallowed up by everything else as well. But he battled back and held off everything else. He’s such a hardy little horse and Jim [Goldie, trainer] had him in tremendous order.”

 

The two and a half-mile contest was hat-trick seeking runner-up Tour d’Argent’s first run in handicap company. “It was a fantastic run for a novice,” said trainer Nicky Henderson, “and fair play to the winner [Attaglance], doing that under top-weight. Ours is still a baby and we’ll put him away now and go chasing next season.”

 

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Seventh race - John Smith’s Mares’ Open National Hunt Flat Race

Winner’s quotes

 

HONEYBALL’S CAREER GETS IMPORTANT BIG-OCCASION WIN

 

Dorset trainer Anthony Honeyball has been gaining compliments for the successes his fledgling career has achieved, but today he nailed one on the big occasion.

 

Eleven Fifty Nine’s victory in this mares’ bumper under Honeyball’s partner, Rachael Green, was a breakthrough that could see the couple press on to the next level.

 

Honeyball, whose winner was part of a one-two in the race for British stallion Midnight Legend, also sire of runner-up Call Me A Star, said: “That’s our first runner at Aintree, but from the form lines we knew we were going to be there, or thereabouts.

 

“She had run very well at Sandown when some people said she was unlucky, but she had the race won two furlongs out and was ground down, while today it was the other way around. She was one of the later ones to challenge and is a really good galloper.

 

“She’s a good size and jumps well so she’ll go novice hurdling next season. She won’t run on anything quicker than this, because we jarred her up when she won her first race at Worcester and had a year off.

 

“Bryn [Wright] and Martin [Rowe] her owners also bred her and they’ve been very patient. 

 

“We’ve had a very good season, but this is the win we’ve been waiting for.”

 

Green said: “Turning in I had a nice run around the final bend, and while she didn’t pick up instantaneously she did it strongly and finally ground them down.

 

“It’s unbelievable to ride a winner here and the crowd is amazing - it’s not quite Cheltenham, but it’s close to it. We’ve been doing very well as a yard, but to win this was just what we needed.”

 

SEVENTH RACE - JOHN SMITH’S MARES’ NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE - THIRD PLACE QUOTES

 

ONE FOR THE FUTURE 

Warren Greatrex was thrilled with the third place of Umadachar in the concluding John Smith’s Mares’ National Hunt Flat race. The French-bred four-year-old had split Call Me A Star and Eleven Fifty Nine at Sandown in March, the two rivals who finished in front of her today.

 

“It shows she’s right up there with the best and the Sandown race was the one,” said Greatrex of the grey daughter of Turgeon, a €20,000 purchase at Saint-Cloud last June. “I think being a four-year-old against the older horses just found her out today. But she’s done nothing but improve all season and she’s one to look forward to. She’ll be even better with time and distance and we’ll have a lot of fun with her.”

 

Umadachar was ridden by Noel Fehily. “I thought I might win going to the final furlong,” he said, “but she just hit a wall. She’s a lovely filly and will get better when she strengthens up.”

 

JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL MEETING, AINTREE

RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE

LADIES’ DAY, FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012

 

SYNCHRONISED AIMS TO MAKE HISTORY IN JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL

 

Synchronised heads the market at 9/1 with Aintree’s official betting partner Betfred on the eve of the 2012 John Smith’s Grand National as he aims to become only the second horse to win the Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National in the same season, after Golden Miller in 1934.

 

A P McCoy’s mount already has the Welsh and Midlands equivalents under his belt and looks certain to carry the hopes of the majority of once-a-year punters up and down the country. Around £300 million is expected to be wagered nationwide and a second victory for McCoy could result in a record-breaking payout on the race.

 

“Synchronised will be the name on the majority of Grand National betting slips up and down the country this weekend and another victory for AP McCoy will surely spell disaster for the bookies,” said Betfred spokesman George Primarolo.

 

Last year’s winner Ballabriggs is next in the market at 12/1 to emulate Red Rum by becoming the first horse to win back-to-back renewals of the race since 1974. Betfred make it 9/1 that either Nina Carberry or Katie Walsh become the first female jockey in the history of the race to pass the post first whilst Becauseicouldntsee and On His Own are 11/2 joint-favourites to be the first Irish-trained horse home.

 

John Smith’s Grand National – Betfred bet: 9 Synchronised; 12 Ballabriggs; 14 Cappa Bleu, Shakalakaboomboom, West End Rocker; 16 Becauseicouldntsee, Chicago Grey, Giles Cross, Junior, On His Own, Organisedconfusion, Sunnyhillboy, 18 Killyglen; 22 Seabass, Treacle, 25 Always Right, 33 According To Pete, Planet Of Sound, The Midnight Club; 40 Calgary Bay, Neptune Collonges, Quiscover Fontaine, Rare Bob; 50 Alfa Beat, Black Apalachi, Mon Mome, Weird Al; 66 State Of Play, Vic Venturi; 80 Deep Purple; 100 Arbor Supreme, Hello Bud, Midnight Haze, Neptune Equester, Tatenen, Viking Blond; 125 Swing Bill; 150 In Compliance, Postmaster, Tharawaat. ¼ the odds 1-2-3-4

 

John Smith’s Grand National: Irish-trained National – Betfred bet: 11/2 Becauseicouldntsee, On His Own; 6 Chicago Grey, Killyglen, Organisedconfusion; 8 Treacle; 9 Seabass; 14 The Midnight Club; 16 Alfa Beat, Rare Bob; 20 Black Apalachi; 28 Vic Venturi; 50 In Compliance, Tharawaat. ¼ 1-2-3

 

John Smith's Grand National: What weight will the winner carry? - Betfred bet: 2/5 Under 11st, 7/4 11st and over. Win Only

 

John Smith's Grand National: Age of Winner - Betfred bet: 7/4 Nine-year-old, 2/1 Ten-year-old, 7/2 Eleven-year-old, 7/1 Eight-year-old; 14/1 Seven-year-old; 25/1 Twelve-year-old; 50/1 Thirteen-year-old; 100/1 Fourteen-year-old. Win Only

 

John Smith's Grand National Specials - Betfred bet: 7/4 Irish-trained winner; 11/2 Jonjo O’Neill-trained winner; 8/1 Willie Mullins-trained winner; 9/1 Nina Carberry or Katie Walsh-ridden winner; 11/1 Donald McCain-trained winner; 12/1 David Pipe-trained winner.

Win Only

 

John Smith’s Grand National: Winning Distance – Betfred bet: 2/1 Over 3 lengths to 10 lengths; 9/4 Over 1.5 lengths to 3 lengths; 11/4 Over 10 lengths; 4/1 0 to 1.5 lengths. Win Only

 

John Smith’s Grand National: Number Of Finishers – Betfred bet: 9/4 13-16; 5/2 17-20; 4/1 21-25; 9-12; 12/1 26-30; 20/1 8 or fewer; 40/1 31 or more. Win Only

 

 

THE JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL MEETING, AINTREE

RACENEWS RACECOURSE SERVICE

LADIES’ DAY, FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012

 

BIBA LEADING JOCKEY COMPETITION STANDINGS AT THE END 

OF DAY TWO

 

Jockey      1st  2nd  3rd

Ruby Walsh      3  -  2

Robert Thornton     2  1  -

Richard Johnson     1  3  1

Barry Geraghty      1  2  -

A P McCoy      1  1  1

Denis O’Regan      1  -  1

Tom Doyle      1  -  -

Rachael Green      1  -  -

Mr Richard Harding     1  -  -

Harry Haynes      1  -  -

Tom O’Brien      1  -  -

Daryl Jacob      -  1  2

Dougie Costello     -  1  1

Noel Fehily      -  1  1

Alain Cawley      -  1  -

Jamie Moore      -  1  -

Sam Twiston-Davies     -  1  -

Mr Sam Waley-Cohen     -  1  -

Mr Josh Halley      -  -  1

Andrew Lynch      -  -  1

Ryan Mania      -  -  1

Jason Maguire      -  -  1

Nick Scholfield      -  -  1

 

LEADING TRAINERS AT THE END OF DAY TWO

 

Jockey      1st  2nd  3rd

Paul Nicholls      3  1  4

Nicky Henderson     2  3  -

Alan King      2  1  -

Malcolm Jefferson     2  -  -

Philip Hobbs      1  3  1

Donald McCain      1  -  1

Peter Bowen      1  -  -

Anthony Honeyball     1  -  -

Oliver McKiernan IRE     1  -  -

Luke Dace      -  1  -

Tom George      -  1  -

Martin Keighley      -  1  -

John Quinn      -  1  -

Nigel Twiston-Davies     -  1  -

Robert Waley-Cohen     -  1  -

Keiran Burke      -  -  1

Rebecca Curtis      -  -  1

Henry De Bromhead IRE    -  -  1

Tim Easterby      -  -  1

Jim Goldie      -  -  1

Warren Greatrex     -  -  1

John Ferguson      -  -  1

Jonjo O’Neill      -  -  1

 

JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL MEETING 2012 - WINNERS

 

Liverpool Day, Thursday, April 12

 

2.00pm BGC PARTNERS LIVERPOOL HURDLE - BIG BUCK'S (FR) (The Stewart Family) Paul Nicholls 9-11-07 Ruby Walsh 2/9 Fav

 

2.30pm MATALAN ANNIVERSARY 4-Y-O JUVENILE HURDLE - GRUMETI (McNiell Family) Alan King 4-11-00 Robert Thornton 11/4 Fav

 

3.05pm BETFRED BOWL CHASE  - FOLLOW THE PLAN (IRE) (Redgap Partnership) Oliver McKiernan IRE 9-11-07 Tom Doyle 50/1

 

3.40pm JOHN SMITH'S FOX HUNTERS' CHASE - CLOUDY LANE (Trevor Hemmings) Donald McCain 12-12-00 Mr Richard Harding 4/1 Jt Fav

 

4.15pm matalan.co.uk RED RUM HANDICAP CHASE - EDGARDO SOL (FR) (Axom XXXII) Paul Nicholls 5-11-00 Ruby Walsh 9/2 Fav

 

4.50pm BETFRED MANIFESTO NOVICES' CHASE - MENORAH (IRE) (Diana Whateley) Philip Hobbs 7-11-04 Richard Johnson 3/1

 

5.25pm SILVER CROSS HANDICAP HURDLE  - CAPE TRIBULATION (J David Abell) Malcolm Jefferson 8-11-12 Denis O'Regan 14/1

 

 

Ladies Day, Friday, April 13

 

2.00pm TANGLE TEEZER TOP NOVICES’ HURDLE - DARLAN (J P McManus) Nicky Henderson 5-11-04 A P McCoy 7/4 Fav 

 

2.30pm JOHN SMITH'S MILDMAY NOVICES' CHASE - SILVINIACO CONTI (FR) (Potensis Limited & Chris Giles) Paul Nicholls 6-11-04 Ruby Walsh 7/4 Fav

 

3.05pm JOHN SMITH'S MELLING CHASE - FINIAN'S RAINBOW (IRE) (Michael Buckley) Nicky Henderson 9-11-10 Barry Geraghty 13/8 Fav

 

3.40pm JOHN SMITH'S TOPHAM CHASE - ALWAYS WAINING (IRE) (Peter & Linda Douglas) Peter Bowen p11-10-11 Tom O'Brien 11/1

 

4.15pm JOHN SMITH'S SEFTON NOVICES' HURDLE - LOVCEN (GER) (The Barbury Apes) Alan King 7-11-04 Robert Thornton 8/1

 

4.50pm JOHN SMITH'S DAILY MIRROR PUNTERS CLUB HANDICAP HURDLE - ATTAGLANCE (H Young, G Eifert, R Snyder) Malcolm Jefferson t6-11-12 Harry Haynes 14/1

 

5.25pm JOHN SMITH'S MARES' STANDARD OPEN NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE - ELEVEN FIFTY NINE (M Rowe & B Wright) Anthony Honeyball 6-11-01 Rachael Green (3) 6/1

 

 

 

SATURDAY’S DECLARED RUNNERS

 

(SEE SEPARATE SHEET FOR JOHN SMITH’S GRAND NATIONAL RUNNERS)

 

1.45pm John Smith’s Mersey Novices’ Chase (Grade 2) (10) 2m 4f

1 Aland Islands (IRE) Tim Vaughan 11st 4lb A. P. McCoy

2 Colour Squadron (IRE) Philip Hobbs 11st 4lb Richard Johnson

3 Flycorn (IRE) (Tongue Strap) T. Hogan, Ireland 11st 4lb Paul Townend

4 Go All The Way (IRE) J. T. R. Dreaper, Ireland 11st 4lb A. E. Lynch

5 Maggio (FR) Patrick Griffin, Ireland 11st 4lb James Reveley

6 Molotof (FR) Nicky Henderson 11st 4lb R. Walsh

7 Old Tricks (IRE) Colin Tizzard 11st 4lb Joe Tizzard

8 Simonsig Nicky Henderson 11st 4lb Barry Geraghty

9 Super Duty (IRE) Donald McCain 11st 4lb Jason Maguire

10 Baby Shine (IRE) Lucy Wadham 10st 11lb Leighton Aspell

 

2.15 John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (Grade 1) (4) 2m

1 Australia Day (IRE) Paul Webber 11st 4lb Denis O'Regan

2 Kudu Country (IRE) Tom Tate 11st 4lb James Reveley

3 Sprinter Sacre (FR) Nicky Henderson 11st 4lb Barry Geraghty

4 Toubab (FR) Paul Nicholls 11st 4lb R. Walsh

 

2.50pm John Smith’s Aintree Hurdle (Grade 1) (6) 2m 4f

1 Oscar Whisky (IRE) Nicky Henderson 11st 7lb Barry Geraghty

2 Rock On Ruby (IRE) (Tongue Strap) Paul Nicholls 11st 7lb Noel Fehily

3 Saphir River (FR) Michael Scudamore 11st 7lb Tom Scudamore

4 Third Intention (IRE) (Tongue Strap) Colin Tizzard 11st 7lb Joe Tizzard

5 Thousand Stars (FR) W. P. Mullins, Ireland 11st 7lb Paul Townend

6 Zarkandar (IRE) Paul Nicholls 11st 7lb R. Walsh

 

3.25pm John Smith’s Handicap Chase (Listed Race) (14) 3m 1f

1 Cannington Brook (IRE) Colin Tizzard 11st 12lb Brendan Powell (5)

2 Tullamore Dew (IRE) (Sheepskin C/P) Nick Gifford 11st 4lb Denis O'Regan

3 Noland (Tongue Strap) Paul Nicholls 11st 3lb Daryl Jacob

4 Chapoturgeon (FR) Paul Nicholls 11st 0lb R. Walsh

5 Battle Group (Blinkers) David Pipe 10st 13lb Tom Scudamore

6 Saint Are (FR) Tim Vaughan 10st 13lb Dougie Costello

7 On Borrowed Wings (IRE) (Sheepskin C/P) David Arbuthnot 10st 12lb Tom Cannon (3)

8 Carrickboy (IRE) Venetia Williams 10st 12lb Aidan Coleman

9 Ackertac (IRE) (Sheepskin C/P) Nigel Twiston-Davies 10st 10lb Sam Twiston-Davies

10 Brackloon High (IRE) Noel Chance 10st 6lb Will Kennedy

11 The Hollinwell Ferdy Murphy 10st 6lb James Reveley

12 Marufo (IRE) (Tongue Strap) Philip Hobbs 10st 3lb Richard Johnson

13 My Boy Paddy (IRE) Nigel Twiston-Davies 10st 2lb Brian Hughes

14 Ballyvesey (IRE) (Visor) Peter Bowen 10st 0lb Jamie Moore

 

5:05pm John Smith’s Handicap Hurdle (For Conditional Jockeys & Amateur Riders) (22) 2m ½f 

1 Sire de Grugy (FR) Gary Moore 11st 12lb Joshua Moore (5)

2 Gibb River (IRE) (Tongue Strap) Nicky Henderson 11st 7lb Jeremiah McGrath (5)

3 Ubi Ace Jonjo O'Neill 11st 6lb Mr Alan Berry (3)

4 Dee Ee Williams (IRE) (Blinkers) Nick Gifford 11st 4lb Adam Wedge (3)

5 Dream Esteem David Pipe 11st 4lb Brendan Powell (5)

6 Paintball (IRE) Charlie Longsdon 11st 3lb Tom Cannon (3)

7 Lifestyle Nicky Henderson 11st 2lb

8 Redera (IRE) A. J. Martin, Ireland 11st 0lb

9 Ciceron (IRE) (Sheepskin C/P) Venetia Williams 10st 12lb Harry Challoner (5)

10 Ted Spread (Tongue Strap) Paul Nicholls 10st 12lb Harry Derham (7)

11 Idarah (USA) Paul Cashman, Ireland 10st 12lb Miss N. Carberry

12 Kealigolane (IRE) Barry Murtagh 10st 10lb Lucy Alexander (5)

13 Conquisto Steve Gollings 10st 9lb Paul Bohan (10)

14 Inis Meain (USA) D. G. Hogan, Ireland 10st 8lb Bryan J. Cooper

15 Kazlian (FR) David Pipe 10st 8lb Conor O'Farrell (3)

16 Akula (IRE) Mark H. Tompkins 10st 8lb Peter Carberry (5)

17 Ericht (IRE) Nicky Henderson 10st 7lb

18 Saute (Visor, Tongue Strap) Tim Vaughan 10st 7lb Michael Byrne (5)

19 Constant Contact Donald McCain 10st 6lb Henry Brooke (3)

20 Lightening Rod Michael Easterby 10st 5lb Harry Haynes

21 Helium (FR) Sophie Leech 10st 0lb Giles Hawkins (3)

22 Jubail (IRE) (Tongue Strap) Donald McCain 10st 0lb John Kington (3)

 

Eliminations: Trip The Light, Aneyeforaneye (IRE), Dun See Dee (IRE), Cool Baranca (GER)

 

5.35pm John Smith’s Champion Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (20) 2m 1f

1 Ballyvoque (IRE) George Charlton 11st 4lb Denis O'Regan

2 Court Minstrel (IRE) Evan Williams 11st 4lb Paul Moloney

3 Howaboutnow (IRE) Donald McCain 11st 4lb Jason Maguire

4 Ifyousayso (IRE) Donald McCain 11st 4lb Adrian Lane

5 Il Presidente (GER) Ian Williams 11st 4lb Harry Skelton

6 Kaysersberg (FR) Neil King 11st 4lb Alex Merriam (3)

7 Lataradud (IRE) Kevin Morgan 11st 4lb Adam Wedge (3)

8 Many Clouds (IRE) Oliver Sherwood 11st 4lb Leighton Aspell

9 Minella Forfitness (IRE) Nicky Henderson 11st 4lb Andrew Tinkler

10 My Tent Or Yours (IRE) Nicky Henderson 11st 4lb Barry Geraghty

11 Nemi (CZE) George Charlton 11st 4lb Jan Faltejsek

12 Population John Ferguson 11st 4lb A. P. McCoy

13 Sir Johnson Peter Bowen 11st 4lb Jamie Moore

14 Big Water (IRE) Alan Swinbank 10st 12lb Brian Hughes

15 Devon Drum Paul Webber 10st 12lb Dominic Elsworth

16 My Inheritance (IRE) Tom George 10st 12lb Paddy Brennan

17 Spirit of Shankly Charlie Longsdon 10st 12lb Richard Johnson

18 Stock Hill Fair Brendan Powell 10st 12lb Noel Fehily

19 The New One (IRE) Nigel Twiston-Davies 10st 12lb Sam Twiston-Davies

20 Yes Daddy (IRE) Noel Wilson 10st 12lb Brian Toomey (3)

 

Eliminations:

No No Charlie (IRE), Sammyman, Foggy's Wall (IRE), Hi George, Regal Swain (IRE)

 

FIRST RACE RESULT

 

2.00 TANGLE TEEZER TOP NOVICES’ HURDLE

Grade 2, Class 1, £50,000 Total Prize Fund. For 4yo+, 2m ½f. Weights: 4yo 10st 12lb; 5yo+ 11st 4lb. Allowances: fillies & mares 7lb.  Penalty Values: 1st: £28,475; 2nd: £10,685; 3rd: £5,350; 4th: £2,665; 5th: £1,340; 6th: £670

                              

1) DARLA N (J P McManus) Nicky Henderson 5-11-04 A P McCoy 7/4 Fav 

2) CAPTAIN CONAN (FR) (Triermore Stud) Nicky Henderson 5-11-04 Barry Geraghty 9/1

3) PROSPECT WELLS (FR) (Andrea & Graham Wylie) Paul Nicholls t7-11-04 Ruby Walsh 4/1

4) OSCARA DARA (IRE) (BG Racing Partnership) Nicky Henderson 7-11-04 David Bass

5) VULCANITE (IRE) (Pearl Bloodstock Ltd) Charlie Longsdon t1 5-11-04 Paddy Brennan

6) ABSOLUTLYFANTASTIC (Ann & Alan Potts Partnership) Henry De Bromhead 5-11-04 Andrew Lynch

7) THEATRE GUIDE (IRE) (Jean Bishop) Colin Tizzard 5-11-04 Joe Tizzard

8) RIGHT STEP (Allen Pope & Jarvis Associates) Alan Jarvis 5-11-04 Tom O'Brien

9) SEVENTH SKY (GER) (John & Peter Heron) Charlie Mann 5-11-04 Noel Fehily

10) AGENT ARCHIE (USA) (David Gorton) Donald McCain Jnr 5-11-04 Jason Maguire

11) TOUGHNESS DANON (Paul Barry) Brendan Powell 6-11-04 Sam Twiston-Davies

12) NORTH CAPE (USA) (Andrew McIver) Alistair Lidderdale 6-11-04 Will Kennedy

 

12 ran

Distances: 3¾, 7, 5, 1, 15, 1¼, 6, 18, 29, 1½, 13 

Breeder: M G Kilroe Breeding: br g Milan - Darbela (IRE) (Doyoun)

Tote Win: £2.60 Places: £1.30; £2.80; £1.80 Exacta: £17.90

Winning Trainer: NICHOLAS (NICKY) JOHN HENDERSON Based: Seven Barrows, Lambourn, Hungerford, Berkshire Date of birth: 10/12/50 Background: The son of financier and amateur jockey John Henderson MBE, Nicky attended Eton before working in the City for stockbrokers Cazenoves. Ended up in their Sydney office and rode out each morning prior to work before deciding to study farming at Cirencester. Also spent six years as an amateur, riding 78 winners including the Imperial Cup and the Foxhunters Chase at Liverpool. He was assistant to the legendary Fred Winter from 1974 to 1978. In July 1978 he first took out a trainer's licence and trained from Windsor House in Lambourn. He moved to Seven Barrows in 1992. Aintree Festival wins: John Smith’s Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2011 Spirit Son),Tangle Teezer Top Novices’ Hurdle (2010 General Miller, 2012 Darlan), totepool Manifesto Novices’ Chase (2010 Mad Max), John Smith’s Mares Only Open NHF (2008 Carole’s Legacy), John Smith’s 250th Anniversary 4YO Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Binocular), totepool Handicap Chase (2008 Oedipe), John Smith’s Fox Hunter’s Chase (2007 Scots Grey), betafir.com Handicap Chase (1985 Green Bramble, 2004 Lord Of The River), John Smith’s Champion NH Flat Race (1987 Rustle), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (1988 Rustle), John Smith’s Melling Chase (1992 Remittance Man), John Smith’s Topham Chase (1990 Wont Be Gone Long, 2006 Liberthine), matalan.co.uk Mildmay Novices’ Chase (1991 Sparkling Flame, 2003 Irish Hussar, 2010 Burton Port), John Smith’s Extra Smooth H’cap Hurdle (1995 Thinking Twice) Cheltenham Festival wins (46): Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup (2011 Long Run), Coral Cup (2010 Spirit River), Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (2009 Andytown), County (1997 Barna Boy, 1993 Thumbs Up), Kim Muir (1990 Master Bob, 2002 The Bushkeeper, 2005 Juveigneur), Byrne Group Plate (1985,1986 The Tsarevich, 2005 Liberthine, 2006 Non So), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (1989 Rustle, 2000 Bacchanal), Cathcart (1994 Raymylette, 1990 Brown Windsor, 1999 and 2000 Stormyfairweather), William Hill Supreme Novices H (1986 River Ceiriog, 1992 Flown), sportingbet.com Queen Mother (1992 Remittance Man, 2012 Finian’s Rainbow), Racing Post Arkle (1991 Remittance Man, 1993 Travado, 2000 Tiutchev, 2012 Sprinter Sacre), Stan James Champion Hurdle (1985, 1986, 1987 See You Then, 2009 Punjabi, 2010 Binocular),JCB Triumph (1985 First Bout, 1987 Alone Success, 1999 Katarino, 2009 Zaynar, 2010 Soldatino), JLT Specialty H’cap Chase (2000 Marlborough), RSA Chase (2005 Trabolgan, 2012 Bobs Worth), Ryanair Chase (2006 Fondmort), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase (2006 Greenhope, 2012 Bellvano), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2011 Bobs Worth), Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle (2012 Simonsihg), Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (2012 Une Artiste), Ryanair Chase (2012 Riverside Theatre) Number of Winners (1982/83-2010/11): 40, 43, 40, 46, 67, 40, 43, 41, 49, 52, 53, 48, 45, 47, 58, 54, 73, 67, 81, 92, 69, 79; 53; 85; 74; 83; 115; 136; 153; Wins this Season: 99

 

Winning Jockey: Anthony Peter McCoy OBE  Date of Birth: 04/05/74 Background: Tony McCoy is the greatest jump jockey of his era and many would argue the greatest of all time. McCoy started out with Billy Rock then tried his luck as a Flat jockey with Jim Bolger. Since growing too heavy and turning to jump racing he has not looked back. He was champion conditional rider in Britain in 1994/5 when attached to Toby Balding's Hampshire yard and took his first senior title in 1995/96 season with 174 wins. His domination has brought 16 consecutive jump jockey's titles. McCoy broke Peter Scudamore's record of 221 wins in the 1997/8 season with 253 successes and broke his own record for the fastest 200 winners in the 1999/2000 season, ending up with 245 successes. In 2001/02 he beat by 20 the record of 269 winners in any season set by Sir Gordon Richards. In April, 2004, he left Martin Pipe's stable after accepting a reportedly huge offer from J P McManus and rides for McManus's principal trainer in Britain, Jonjo O'Neill. McCoy, O'Neill and McManus teamed up to capture the Irish Grand National with Butler's Cabin in April 2007. McCoy cracked a vertebra in a terrible fall Warwick in January, 2008, but was back in winning action with Albertas Run at the Cheltenham Festival in March. His wife Chanelle gave birth to their daughter Eve in late 2007. Tony was awarded an MBE in the 2003 Queen’s Birthday Honours and an OBE in the 2010 Queen’s Birthday Honours. In 2010 he was also the BBC Sports Personality of the Year - the only person in racing to achieve this feat. 1000th Win Over Jumps In Britain: Majadou, Cheltenham, December 11, 1999 2000th Win Over Jumps In Britain: Corporate Player, Wincanton, January 17, 2004 3000th Win Over Jumps In Britain: Restless D’Artaix, Plumpton, February 9, 2009  First Winner: Thurles, 26/03/92, Legal Steps (First winner in Britain: 07/09/94, Exeter, Chickabiddy) Cheltenham Festival Wins: (27) Ryanair Chase (2010 & 2011 Albertas Run), JLT Specialty Chase (2009 Wichita Lineman), RSA Chase (2008 Alberta’s Run), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase (1996 Kibreet, 1998 Edredon Bleu), Racing Post Arkle Chase (1997 Or Royal, 1998 Champleve, 2004 Well Chief), Stan James Champion Hurdle (1997 Make A Stand, 2006 Brave Inca, 2010 Binocular), Betfred Gold Cup (1997 Mr Mulligan, 2012 Synchronised), Cathcart Chase (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2002 Royal Auclair), Pertemps Final (1998 Unsinkable Boxer), Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle (1998 Blowing Wind, 2012 Alderwood), William, Hill Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (1999 Hors La Loi III), Byrne Group Plate (1999 Majadou), sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase (2000 Edredon Bleu), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (2003 Liberman), Pulteney Land Novices’ Handicap Chase (2006 Reveillez), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Black Jack Ketchum, 2007 Wichita Lineman), Jewson Novices’ Chase (2011 Noble Prince) Leading Rider at The Festival: 1997 (3), 1998 (5). Other major wins: AIG Europe Champion Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Ascot Chase (2002 Tresor de Mai, 2003 Tiutchev), Bet365 Gold Cup (2002 Bounce Back, 2009 Hennessy),December Gold Cup (1998 Northern Starlight), Challow Novices' Hurdle (2001 Classified, 2002 Coolnagorna, 2006 Wichita Lineman, 2010 Backspin), Christmas Hurdle (2007 Straw Bear, 2010 & 2011Binocular), December Festival Hurdle (2005 Brave Inca), Feltham Novices' Chase (1999 Gloria Victis, 2001Maximize, 2005 Darkness),  Fighting Fifth Hurdle (2006 Straw Bear), Future Champions Finale Juvenile Novices' Hurdle (1997Rainwatch, 2004 Phar Bleu), Hatton’s Grace Hurdle (2006 Brave Inca), Henry VIII Novices' Chase (1997 Direct Route, 1998 Dines), King George VI Chase (2002 Best Mate), Kingwell Hurdle (2005 Inglis Drever, 2007 Straw Bear), Long Walk Hurdle (2002 Deano’s Beeno, 2004 Baracouda, 2010 & 2011 Big Buck’s), Morgiana Hurdle (2005 Brave Inca), Paddy Power Gold Cup (1998 Cyfor Malta, 2000 Lady Cricket, 2001Shooting Light, 2006 Exotic Dancer),Powers Gold Cup (2005 Like-a-Butterfly, 2006 Justified), Punchestown Champion Four Year Old Hurdle (1996 Shaunies Lady), Punchestown Champion Hurdle (2005 Brave Inca), Punchestown Champion Novice Chase (1999 Jocks Cross), Punchestown Champion Novice Hurdle (1998 His Song, 2008 Jered, 2011 Shot From The Hip), Racing Post Chase (2006 Innox, 2009 Nacarat), Relkeel Hurdle (2006 Black Jack Ketchum, 2010 Karabak), Rendlesham Hurdle (2003 Deano’s Beano), Scottish Champion Hurdle (2000 Mister Morose, 2005 Genghis), Scottish Grand National (1997 Belmont King), Sharp Novices' Hurdle (1996 Kailash), Tingle Creek Chase (2008 Master Minded), Tote Gold Trophy (2002 Copeland),Growise Champion Novice Chase (2010 Kempes), Ryanair Novice Chase (2010 Captain Cee Bee), Welsh National (2011 Synchronised) Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith's Grand National (2010 Don’t Push It), John Smith’s Handicap Chase (2009 Don’t Push It), Betfair.com Handicap Chase (2007 Reveillez), John Smith’s Melling Chase (2010 Albertas Run, 1996 Viking Flagship), John Smith’s smithythehorse.com Handicap Hurdle (2010 Ringaroses), John Smith’s 250th  Anniversary 4yo Hurdle (1996 Zabadi, 1999 Hors La Loi III, 2008 Binocular), Barton & Guestier Novices’ Hurdle (1998 Fataliste), John Smith’s Top Novices Hurdle (2006 Straw Bear, 2012 Darlan), 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) John Smith’s Extra Cold Handicap Hurdle (2006 Refinement), Chivas Regal Novices’ Hcap Chase (1999 Royal Predica), John Smith’s Red Rum Handicap Chase (2003 Golden Alpha, 2005 Fota Island), Betfair Bowl Chase (2004 Tiutchev, 2007 Exotic Dancer), Martell Maghull Novices’ Chase (2004 Well Chief), Silver Cross Handicap Hurdle (2005 Genghis, 2009 Sunnyhillboy), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (2006 Foreman) Wins 1994/5-2010/11: 74; 175; 189; 253; 186; 245; 191; 289; 257; 209; 199; 178; 184; 140; 186; 195; 218 Wins this season: 198

 

 

SECOND RACE RESULT

 

2.30pm JOHN SMITH’S MILDMAY NOVICES’ CHASE

Grade 2, Class 1, £75,000 Total Prize Fund. For 5yo+, 3m 1f. Weights: 11st 4lb. Allowances: mares 7lb.  Penalty Values: 1st: £42,712.50; 2nd: £16,027.50; 3rd: £8,025; 4th: £3,997.50; 5th: £2,010; 6th: £670

1) SILVINIACO CONTI (FR) (Potensis Limited & Chris Giles) Paul Nicholls 6-11-04 Ruby Walsh 7/4 Fav

2) CHAMPION COURT (IRE) (Martin Boothright) Martin Keighley 7-11-04 Alain Cawley 15/8

3) JOIN TOGETHER (IRE) (Paul Barber & Ian Fogg) Paul Nicholls 7-11-04 Daryl Jacob

4) SOLIX (FR) (Michael Buckley) Nicky Henderson 6-11-04 Barry Geraghty

5) YES TOM (IRE) (T J Topping) Roy Wilson IRE 7-11-04 Paddy Brennan

 

5 ran

Distances: 13, 12, 68, 21

Breeder: Patrick Joubert Breeding: ch g Dom Alco (FR) - Gazelle Lulu (FR) (Altayan)

Tote Win: £2.50 Places: £1.40; £1.60 Exacta: £4.20

 

Winning Trainer: PAUL NICHOLLS Date of birth: 17/05/62 Based: Heighes House, Manor Farm Stables, Ditcheat, Shepton Mallet, Somerset Background: Paul Nicholls, the son of a policeman, was born in Olveston, Bristol, on April 17, 1962, and has been training at Manor Farm Stables in Ditcheat, Somerset, since taking out a licence on November 1, 1991. He started out as a jump jockey and twice rode the winner of the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury, in 1986 and 1987. He partnered 130 winners between 1980 and 1989, and nominates the best horses he rode as Broadheath, Playschool and Seagram. Between 1989 and 1991, he was assistant trainer to former Devon-based David Barons, who sent out Seagram to win the 1991 Grand National at Aintree during that time. Having strongly challenged Martin Pipe for the jump trainers’ championship for several years, most notably when pushing his great rival right to the last day of the 2004/05 campaign, he claimed his first title in the 2005/06 season. Nicholls pulled off the amazing feat of saddling seven winners and three seconds from his 10 runners on Saturday, November 7, 1998, and made history when he became the first trainer to saddle six winners on the same card, at Wincanton, his local track, on Saturday, January 21, 2006. Aintree Festival Wins include: John Smith’s Melling Chase (2011 Master Minded), BGC Partners Liverpool Hurdle (2012, 2011, 2010 & 2009 Big Buck’s), John Smith’s Extra Cold Handicap Hurdle (2008 Forest Pennant), Top Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Pierrot Lunaire), John Smith’s Topham Chase (2008 Gwanako), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (1999 Flagship Uberalles, 2002 Armaturk, 2003 Le Roi Miguel, 2007 Twist Magic, 2010 Tataniano), John Smith’s Melling Chase (2001 Fadalko), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (2006 Star De Mohaison, 2008 Big Buck’s, 2012 Silviniaco Conti), Citroen C5 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Natal, 2008 Elusive Dream)), John Smith’s Fox Hunter Chase (2002 Torduff Express), Matalan Anniversary 4-y-o Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Le Duc, 2011 Zarkandar), Totesport Bowl (2010 What A Friend, 2000 See More Business) Cheltenham Festival Wins (32): Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (2010 Sanctuaire), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012 Big Buck’s), Pulteney Land Investments Novices’ Handicap Chase (2009 Chapoturgeon), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2008 Celestial Halo, 2011 Zarkandar), Racing Post  Arkle Novices’ Chase (1999 Flagship Uberalles, 2003 Azertyuiop), sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase (1999 Call Equiname, 2004 Azertyuiop, 2008 & 2009 Master Minded), Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup (1999 See More Business, 2007 & 2009 Kauto Star, 2008 Denman), Christie’s Foxhunter Chase (2004 Earthmover, 2005 Sleeping Night), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual (2004 St Pirran, 2007 Andreas), Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle (2004 Sporazene, 2006 Desert Quest, 2009 American Trilogy), Ryanair Chase (2005 Thisthatandtother, 2007 Taranis), William Hill Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Noland, 2011 Al Ferof), RSA Chase (2006 Star De Mohaison, 2007 Denman), Stan James Champion Hurdle (2012 Rock On Ruby) Trainer to Saddle Six Winners on One Card: Saturday, January 21, 2006, at Wincanton Number of Winners (1992/03-2010/11): 20; 29; 28; 53; 56; 82; 110; 71; 83; 136; 152; 127; 152; 148*; 124*; 151* (first trainer to win more than £4 million in prize money in a season);155*;115*, 134* *Champion Trainer Wins this Season: 129

 

Winning Jockey: Ruby Walsh Born: May 14, 1979 Background: Ruby (short for Rupert) is associated with the powerful stables of Paul Nicholls in Britain and Willie Mullins in Ireland. He is the son of 11-times Irish amateur champion jockey, Ted Walsh, now a trainer. Ruby is the second of Walsh's four children and his younger sister Katie is a successful amateur. He followed in his father's footsteps when capturing the Irish amateur riders’ championship (1996-97) at the age of 19 while still studying for his Leaving Certificate. He was crowned champion Irish National Hunt jockey in his first season as a professional (1998/99) and has taken the title a further five times (2000/2001, 2004/05, 2005/06, 2006/7 and 2007/08). Walsh has won the John Smith's Grand National twice. His first success came in 2000 on his first ride in the race aboard Papillon, trained by his father, less than a month after returning from a fractured leg sustained in a fall in October, 1999, in the Czech Republic. The Willie Mullins-trained Hedgehunter provided him with a second success in 2005. He followed Papillon's Aintree triumph with an Irish Grand National victory aboard his father's Commanche Court but surpassed that achievement in the 2004/2005 season when his John Smith's Grand National success aboard Hedgehunter was augmented by wins in the Welsh National (Silver Birch) and Irish Grand National (Numbersixvalverde). He narrowly missed out in that season's Scottish Grand National when his mount, Cornish Rebel, finished a short-head second to Joes Edge. In the 2008/09 season he was leading rider at the Cheltenham Festival for a fourth time.  First Winner: Siren Song, Gowran Park, July 25, 1995 Aintree Festival Wins include: John Smith’s Melling Chase (2011 Master Minded), totesport Bowl (2010 What A Friend), John Smith’s Mares’ Standard Open NHF (2009 Candy Creek), BGC Partners Liverpool Hurdle (2012, 2011, 2010 & 2009 Big Buck’s), John Smith’s Extra Cold Handicap Hurdle (2008 Forest Pennant) , Top Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Pierrot Lunaire), John Smith’s Topham Chase (2008 Gwanako), John Smith’s Grand National (2000 Papillon (His first National ride), 2005 Hedgehunter), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (2008 Big Buck’s, 2012 Silviniaco Conti), John Smith’s Maghull Novices’ Chase (2003 Le Roi Miguel, 2007 Twist Magic, 2010 Tataniano), Baltika Beer Aintree Hurdle (2002 Ilnamar, 2006 Asian Maze), Matalan Anniversary 4-y-o Novices’ Hurdle (2003 Le Duc, 2011 Zarkandar), Citroen C5 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2004 Garde Champetre, 2006 Natal, 2008 Elusive Dream)  Cheltenham Festival Wins (34): Fred Winter Juvenile Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (2010 Sanctuaire), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012 Big Buck’s), OLBG Mares Hurdle (2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012 Quevega), Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Fiveforthree, 2009 Mikael D’Haguenet), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2008 Celestial Halo), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (1998 Alexander Banquet, 2005 Missed That), Byrne Group Plate (2002 Blowing Wind), Racing Post  Arkle (2003 Azertyuiop), sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase (2004 Azertyuiop, 2008 & 2009 Master Minded), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual (2004 St Pirran), Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle (2004 Sporazene, 2006 Desert Quest, 2009 American Trilogy, 2011 Final Approach), Ryanair Chase (2005 Thisthatandtother, 2007 Taranis), William Hill Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2006 Noland, 2010 Al Ferof), JLT Specialty Chase (2006 Dun Doire), RSA Chase (2007 Denman, 2009 Cooldoine), Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup (2007 & 2009 Kauto Star), Stan James Champion Hurdle (2011 Hurricane Fly) 1,000th Winner in Ireland: Rare Article, Smirnoff (Mares) Maiden Hurdle, Thurles, May 4, 2008 (became only the second jockey to complete the feat after Charlie Swan)  Number of Wins in Britain (1998/99-2010/11): 1; 1; 5; 13; 77; 62; 81; 69; 73; 69; 69; 69; 26 Wins in Britain This Season: 52

 

 

THIRD RACE RESULT

 

3.05pm JOHN SMITH’S MELLING CHASE

Grade 1, Class 1, £175,000 Total Prize Fund. For 5yo+, 2m 5f. Weights: 11st 10lb. Allowances: mares 7lb.  Penalty Values: 1st: £98,472.50; 2nd: £37,100; 3rd: £18,567.50; 4th: £9,275; 5th: £4,655; 6th: £2,327.50

 

1) FINIAN'S RAINBOW (IRE) (Michael Buckley) Nicky Henderson 9-11-10 Barry Geraghty 13/8 Fav

2) WISHFULL THINKING (Diana Whateley) Philip Hobbs t9-11-10 Richard Johnson 15/2

3) ALBERTAS RUN (IRE) (Trevor Hemmings) Jonjo O'Neill 11-11-10 A P McCoy 11/4

4) FORPADYDEPLASTERER (IRE) (Goat Racing Syndicate) Tom Cooper IRE p10-11-10 Bryan Cooper

5) PURE FAITH (IRE) (P Bowling, S Scott, R Harvey & Karen Bowen) Peter Bowen 8-11-10 Tom O'Brien

6) POQUELIN (FR) (The Stewart Family) Paul Nicholls 9-11-10 Ruby Walsh

7) KAUTO STONE (FR) (Robin Geffen) Paul Nicholls 6-11-10 Paul Carberry

PU BEF 3 OUT) KALAHARI KING (FR) (Mrs J Morgan) Ferdy Murphy 11-11-10 Noel Fehily

 

8 ran

Distances: 7, 13, 1¼, 6, 13, ½

Breeder: J O’Keeffe Breeding: b g Tiraaz (USA) - Trinity Gale (IRE) (Strong Gale)

Tote Win: £2.70 Places: £1.10; £2.20; £1.50 Exacta: £16.30

 

Winning Trainer: NICHOLAS (NICKY) JOHN HENDERSON Based: Seven Barrows, Lambourn, Hungerford, Berkshire Date of birth: 10/12/50 Background: The son of financier and amateur jockey John Henderson MBE, Nicky attended Eton before working in the City for stockbrokers Cazenoves. Ended up in their Sydney office and rode out each morning prior to work before deciding to study farming at Cirencester. Also spent six years as an amateur, riding 78 winners including the Imperial Cup and the Foxhunters Chase at Liverpool. He was assistant to the legendary Fred Winter from 1974 to 1978. In July 1978 he first took out a trainer's licence and trained from Windsor House in Lambourn. He moved to Seven Barrows in 1992. Aintree Festival wins: John Smith’s Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2011 Spirit Son),Tangle Teezer Top Novices’ Hurdle (2010 General Miller, 2012 Darlan), totepool Manifesto Novices’ Chase (2010 Mad Max), John Smith’s Mares Only Open NHF (2008 Carole’s Legacy), John Smith’s 250th Anniversary 4YO Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Binocular), totepool Handicap Chase (2008 Oedipe), John Smith’s Fox Hunter’s Chase (2007 Scots Grey), betafir.com Handicap Chase (1985 Green Bramble, 2004 Lord Of The River), John Smith’s Champion NH Flat Race (1987 Rustle), Citroen C6 Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (1988 Rustle), John Smith’s Melling Chase (1992 Remittance Man, 2012 Finian’s Rainbow), John Smith’s Topham Chase (1990 Wont Be Gone Long, 2006 Liberthine), matalan.co.uk Mildmay Novices’ Chase (1991 Sparkling Flame, 2003 Irish Hussar, 2010 Burton Port), John Smith’s Extra Smooth H’cap Hurdle (1995 Thinking Twice) Cheltenham Festival wins (46): Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup (2011 Long Run), Coral Cup (2010 Spirit River), Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (2009 Andytown), County (1997 Barna Boy, 1993 Thumbs Up), Kim Muir (1990 Master Bob, 2002 The Bushkeeper, 2005 Juveigneur), Byrne Group Plate (1985,1986 The Tsarevich, 2005 Liberthine, 2006 Non So), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (1989 Rustle, 2000 Bacchanal), Cathcart (1994 Raymylette, 1990 Brown Windsor, 1999 and 2000 Stormyfairweather), William Hill Supreme Novices H (1986 River Ceiriog, 1992 Flown), sportingbet.com Queen Mother (1992 Remittance Man, 2012 Finian’s Rainbow), Racing Post Arkle (1991 Remittance Man, 1993 Travado, 2000 Tiutchev, 2012 Sprinter Sacre), Stan James Champion Hurdle (1985, 1986, 1987 See You Then, 2009 Punjabi, 2010 Binocular),JCB Triumph (1985 First Bout, 1987 Alone Success, 1999 Katarino, 2009 Zaynar, 2010 Soldatino), JLT Specialty H’cap Chase (2000 Marlborough), RSA Chase (2005 Trabolgan, 2012 Bobs Worth), Ryanair Chase (2006 Fondmort), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase (2006 Greenhope, 2012 Bellvano), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2011 Bobs Worth), Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle (2012 Simonsihg), Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (2012 Une Artiste), Ryanair Chase (2012 Riverside Theatre)  Number of Winners (1982/83-2010/11): 40, 43, 40, 46, 67, 40, 43, 41, 49, 52, 53, 48, 45, 47, 58, 54, 73, 67, 81, 92, 69, 79; 53; 85; 74; 83; 115; 136; 153 Wins this Season: 152

 

Winning Jockey: Barry Geraghty Born: September 16, 1979 Background: Barry Geraghty will forever be associated with the great Moscow Flyer who provided him with his first Cheltenham Festival victory in the 2002 Arkle Chase and went on to add the Queen Mother Champion Chase in 2003 and 2005, as well as a host of other championship races including the Grade One John Smith's Melling Chase at Aintree in 2004 and 2005. Geraghty is one of six children from a "horse-mad" family that hails from Drumree in Co Meath. His father ‘Tucker' was a useful amateur and trains a few horses in addition to his riding school and livery yard while his brother Ross, who won the 2002 Irish National on The Bunny Boiler, and sister Jill, an amateur, are both jockeys. Geraghty has a background in pony racing, riding his last winner in that sphere in September, 1996, before becoming apprenticed to Noel Meade that month and having his first ride in October, 1996. He has twice been champion jump jockey in Ireland in the seasons 1999/2000 and 2003/04. It was for Moscow Flyer's trainer Jessica Harrington that he first sprang to prominence, partnering her 1998 Midlands National winner Miss Orchestra. He crowned the 2002/03 season with victory in the John Smith's Grand National aboard Monty's Pass, something which contributed to him being voted RTE Sports Personality of the year by Irish television viewers. Took up the offer of becoming Nicky Henderson’s number one jockey following the retirement of Mick Fitzgerald at the end of the 2007/08 season, and he now divides his time between Britain and Ireland.  Based: Drumree, County Meath, Ireland First Winner: Stagalier (EBF Mares’ Maiden Hurdle, Down Royal, January 29, 1997) Achievements: Champion jockey in Ireland in 1999/2000 and 2003/04  Cheltenham Festival Wins (25): Stan James Champion Hurdle (2009 Punjabi), Pulteney Land Investments Novices’ Handicap Chase (2008 Finger OnThe Pulse), Racing Post Chase (2002 Moscow Flyer, 2009 Forpadydeplasterer, 2012 Sprinter Sacre), JLT Speciality Handicap Chase (2003 Youlneverwalkalone), Pertemps Final (2003 Inching Closer), sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase (2003, 2005 Moscow Flyer, 2010 Big Zeb, 2012 Finian’s Rainbow), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2003 Spectroscope, 2009 Zaynar, 2010 Soldatino), Vincent O’Brien County Hurdle (2003 Spirit Leader), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift), Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup (2005 Kicking King), RSA Chase (2006 Star de Mohaison, 2012 Bobs Worth), Coral Cup (2006 Sky’s The Limit, 2010 Spirit River), Weatherbys Champion Bumper (2007 Cork All Star), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2011 Bobs Worth), Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle (2012 Simonsiog), Ryanair Chase (2012 Riverside Theatre)  Leading Rider at The Festival: 2003 (5). Aintree Festival Wins include: John Smith’s Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (2011 Spirit Son), John Smith’s Grand National (2003 Monty’s Pass); John Smith’s Top Novices’ Hurdle (2010 General Miller) totepool Manifesto Novices’ Chase (2010 Mad Max), totesport Bowl (2002 Florida Pearl), Martell Cognac Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2000 Sackville, 2003 Iris’s Gift), Liverpool Hurdle (2004 Iris’s Gift), John Smith’s Melling Chase (2004 & 2005 Moscow Flyer, 2012 Finian’s Rainbow), John Smith’s Mildmay Novices’ Chase (2006 Star de Mohaison, 2010 Burton Port), John Smith’s smithythehorse.com Handicap Hurdle (2011 Battle Group) in Britain (2001/02-2010/11): 4; 26; 13; 10; 8; 1; 1; 65; 78; 61  Wins in Britain this Season: 55

F19.

 

 

 

FOURTH RACE RESULT

 

3.40pm JOHN SMITH’S TOPHAM CHASE

Grade 3, Class 1, Handicap. £100,000 Total Prize Fund. For 5yo+, 2m 5½f. Minimum weight: 10st. Penalties: after April 1, a winner of a chase 4lb (no penalty to increase a horse’s weight above 11st 12lb). Penalty Values: 1st: £56,270; 2nd: £21,200; 3rd: £10,610; 4th: £5,300; 5th: £2,660; 6th: £1,330

 

1) ALWAYS WAINING (IRE) (Peter & Linda Douglas) Peter Bowen p11-10-11 Tom O'Brien 11/1

2) CHANCE DU ROY (FR) (Miss I D Du PRe) Philip Hobbs 8-11-07 Richard Johnson 16/1

3) FISTRAL BEACH (IRE) (Graham Roach) Paul Nicholls 9-11-04 Daryl Jacob 22/1 

4) AIMIGAYLE (David Cliff & Philipps Clunes) Suzy Smith 9-10-02 Colin Bolger 12/1

5) PARADIS DE THAIX (FR) (Hard To Get Ten Syndicate) Jessica Harrington IRE p1 9-10-02 Paul Moloney

6) MINELLA THEATRE (IRE) (Middleham Park Racing XXIV & Dan Goilbert) Lawney Hill t9-10-00 David Bass

7) LITTLE JOSH (IRE) (Tony Bloom) Nigel Twiston-Davies 10-11-04 Sam Twiston-Davies 6/1 Fav

8) APT APPROACH (IRE) (Greenstar Syndicate) Willie Mullins IRE t1 9-11-09 Paul Townend

9) MOON OVER MIAMI (GER) (Safest Syndicate 3) Chalrie Mann t11-10-00 Will Kennedy

10) GIORGIO QUERCUS (FR) (Seasons Holidays) Nicky Henderson 7-11-09 Barry Geraghty

11) WAKE BOARD (FR) (J A Provan) Dr Richard Newland t7-10-00 Campbell Gillies

12) FRANKIE FIGG (IRE) (Andrea & Graham Wylie) Paul Nicholls t10-10-03 Ruby Walsh

13) FABALU (IRE) (Tim Leslie) Donald McCain b10-10-00 Brian Harding

14) BAI ZHU (IRE) (The Perfect Day Partnership) Nicky Henderson 8-10-00 Felix de Giles

15) TARTAK (FR) (Power Panels Electrical Systems Ltd) Tim Vaughan t9-11-12 Aidan Coleman

16) HERECOMESTHETRUTH (IRE) (The Not Over Big Partnership) Chris Gordon 10-10-12 Tom Cannon (3)

17) DOUGLAS JULIAN (Sue Smith) Sue Smith 10-10-00 Ryan Mania

18) MONTOYA'S SON (IRE) (Straightline Construction Ltd) Chris Grant 7-10-00 Wilson Renwick

19) SUNDAY CITY (JPN) (R Greenway) Peter Bowen 11-10-02 Jamie Moore

F 13) GONEBEYONDRECALL (IRE) (Noel Glynn) Noel Glynn IRE v9-10-03 Davy Condon

F 9) RIO GAEL (IRE) (Karen Bowen) Peter Bowen p6-10-00 Brian Hughes

PU BEF 2 OUT) NIKOLA (FR) (Graham & Alison Jelley) Nigel Twiston-Davies 11-10-00 Dougie Costello

PU BEF 10) TRIANGULAR (USA) (Henrietta Charlet) Tom George tp7-10-13 Paddy Brennan

PU BEF 6) MASSINI SUNSET (IRE) (Mr & Mrs Andrew May) Richard Mitchell b12-9-11 Conor O'Farrell (3)

PU BEF 13) ARKLOW GER (IRE) (Michael Murray/John Kavanagh) Paul Nolan IRE 10-10-02 Paul Carberry

UR 1) MATUHI (Willsford Racing Incorporated) David Pipe t9-11-01 Tom Scudamore

 

26 ran

Distances: 4½, 1¼, 10, 14, ¾, 3½, 5, nk, 1¾, 11, 1½, 3, 1¾, 6, 1¼, 2½, ¾, 41   

Breeder: Barouche Stud Ireland Ltd Breeding: b g Unfuwain (USA) - Glenarff (USA) (Irish River (FR))

Tote Win: £8.80 Places: £2.30; £4.10; £6.90; £3.70 Exacta: £265.20

 

Winning Trainer: PETER BOWEN Based: Yet-Y-Rhug, Letterston, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales Background: Born on June 9, 1958, Peter Bowen is married to Karen and has three sons, Michael, Sean and James. The son of a haulier and a village postmistress, Bowen trains at Letterston near Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales, and took out his first trainer’s licence in 1995, having previously been a livery yard proprietor and hugely successful point-to-point handler. His stable stars have included Take The Stand, who was second to Kicking King in the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2005 and finished fifth in the 2006 renewal. Peter’s biggest success to date came when Snoopy Loopy won the Grade One Betfair Chase at Haydock in November, 2008. Date of First Licence: 1995 Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (2010 Big Time Billy), John Smith’s Topham Chase (2007 Dunbrody Millar, 2010, 2011 & 2012 Always Waining), John Smith’s Extra Smooth H’cap Hurdle (1999 Kinnescash), John Smith’s No Nonsense Handicap Hurdle (2005 Genghis)  Other Major Wins Include: BetfairChase (2008 Snoopy Loopy), Challow Novices' Hurdle (2007 Souffleur), Elite Hurdle (1996 Dreams End), Hyde Novices' Hurdle (2003 Jollyolly), Kingwell Hurdle (1997 Dreams End), Scilly Isles Novices' Chase (1997 Stately Home), Scottish Champion Hurdle (2005 Genghis), Swinton Handicap Hurdle (1997 Dreams End), Worcester Novices' Chase (2003 Ballycassidy), Rendlesham Hurdle (2010 Souffleur) Number of Winners (1995/96-2010/11): 7; 33; 38; 32; 25; 8, 10, 18, 38; 40; 41; 73; 41; 44; 36; 60 Winners this Season: 51

 

Winning Jockey: Tom O’Brien Born: November 28, 1986 Based: Philip Hobbs, Minehead, Somerset Background: O’Brien set a record for the conditional riders’ championship for the 2006/07 season with 107 successes. His father Jim is a brother of the brilliant trainer Aidan O’Brien and plays a key role at his Ballydoyle stable in Co Tipperary. From the age of 13, Tom rode out at weekends and in school holidays at Ballydoyle, aboard champions such as High Chaparral, Rock Of Gibraltar and Mozart. He joined Philip Hobbs’s stable as a 17-year-old, initially riding as an amateur and in point-to-points and had first winner aboard The Names Bond at Warwick on December 18, 2004. First Winner Under Rules in Britain: The Names Bond, Warwick, December 18, 2004, Ron Gascoigne Memorial Amateur Novices’ Handicap Hurdle Aintree Festival Wins include: John Smith’s Topham Chase (2011 & 2012 Always Waining) Cheltenham Festival Wins (1): Fred Winter Juvenile Novices’ Handicap Hurdle (2009 Silk Affair) Other Notable wins: Tommy Whittle Handicap Chase (2005 Captain Corelli), totescoop6 Summer Hurdle (2006 Tycoon Hall), Ballymore Properties Challow Novices’ Hurdle (2007 Souffleur), Joseph Heler Cheese Hurdle (2010 Souffleur) Number of Winners (2004/05-2010/11): 3; 22; 107; 70; 59; 36; 74 Wins This Season: 77

F24.

 

FIFTH RACE RESULT

4.15pm JOHN SMITH’S SEFTON NOVICES’ HURDLE

Grade 1, Class 1, £100,000 Total Prize Fund. For 4yo+, 3m ½f. Weights: 4yo 10st 10lb; 5yo+ 11st 4lb. Allowances: fillies & mares 7lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £56,270; 2nd: £21,200; 3rd: £10,610; 4th: £5,300; 5th: £2,660; 6th: £1,330

1) LOVCEN (GER) (The Barbury Apes) Alan King 7-11-04 Robert Thornton 8/1

2) FINGAL BAY (IRE) (Carol Skan) Philip Hobbs 6-11-04 Richard Johnson 13/8 Fav

3) COTTON MILL (Bloomfields) John Ferguson 5-11-04 Denis O'Regan 6/1

4) IPSOS DU BERLAIS (FR) (Gigginstown House Stud) Noel Meade IRE b1 6-11-04 Davy Russell

5) HAWKES POINT (Graham Roach) Paul Nicholls 7-11-04 Ruby Walsh

6) TAP NIGHT (USA) (Jane Buchanan) Lucinda Russell 5-11-0-4 Peter Buchanan

7) HARRY TOPPER (D J Keyte & A N Solomons) Kim Bailey 5-11-04 Sean Quinlan

8) FORGOTTEN GOLD (IRE) (Mr & Mrs R Cornock) Tom George 6-11-04 Paddy Brennan

9) NAGPUR (FR) (Miss S Douglas-Pennant) Venetia Williams 6-11-04 Aidan Coleman

10) GULLINBURSTI (IRE) (Nick Mustoe) Emma Lavelle 6-11-04 Noel Fehily

BD 4) MAKETHE MOSTOFNOW (IRE) (Janet Davies) Evan Williams 7-11-04 Paul Moloney

FELL 3 OUT) POOLE MASTER (G Thompson) David Pipe 7-11-04 Chris Honour

FELL 4) GOLDEN CALL (IRE) (M M Allen & R M Brilley) Donald McCain 8-11-04 Jason M Maguire

PU) KNOCK A HAND (IRE) (Alan Halsall) Richard Lee 7-11-04 Tom Scudamore

PU) NETMINDER (IRE) (Mr & Mrs A M Thomson) Sanjdy Thomson 6-11-04 James Reveley

PU) ELY BROWN (IRE) (Countrywide Vehicle Rentals Taxi Hire) Rachel Hobbs p7-11-04 Andrew Thornton

PU) BALLYROCK (IRE) (Pearn’s Pharmacies Ltd) Tim Vaughan t1 6-11-04 A P McCoy

PU) AIKIDEAU (FR) (The Stewart Family) Richard Rowe 5-11-04 Leighton Aspell

PU) CATCHERINSCRATCHER (IRE) (Alan & Ann Potts Partnership) Henry de Bromhead 7-10-11 Andrew Lynch

 

19 ran

Distances: 1¾, 11, 2¾, 13, 3½, 2½, 12, 3, 17

Breeder: G Baron Von Ullmann Breeding: b g Tiger Hill (IRE) - Lady Hawk (GER) (Grand Lodge (USA))

Tote Win: £10.30 Places: £3.20, £1.60, £2.10 Exacta: £31.40

 

Winning Trainer: ALAN KING Born: December 13, 1966 Based: Barbury Castle Stables, Wroughton, Wiltshire Background: Born into a farming family in Lanarkshire on December 13, 1966, Alan King was a member of a local pony club and also competed on the show jumping circuit before joining David Nicholson as an amateur jockey in 1985, having previously worked for John Wilson in his native Scotland. Alan managed to finish third in a couple of hunter chases, but soon realised that race riding was not for him and served as long-time assistant to Nicholson, from whom he took over the licence at Jackdaws Castle stables near Temple Guiting in Gloucestershire on December 3, 1999. He only had to wait until the following day for Mini Moo Min to provide him with a first success at Towcester. In that rookie season, Alan also saddled Relkeel to take a third totesport Bula Hurdle at Cheltenham a week after breaking his duck, and the following weekend captured the Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot with Anzum, one part of a four-timer. He also sent out Go Ballistic to finish second to See More Business in the Stan James King George VI Chase at Kempton. Alan was only based at Jackdaws Castle, then owned by Colin Smith, until the end of the 1999/2000 season, as there was only a year by year lease available. At that juncture, he moved to the Barbury Castle estate near Marlborough, Wiltshire, which was bought by one of his principal owners, Nigel Bunter, and the trainer has since gone from strength to strength. Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Melling Chase (2008 Voy Por Ustedes), Liverpool Hurdle (2008 Blazing Bailey), Silver Cross Handicap Hurdle (2010 Sir Harry Ormesher), Anniversary 4-Y-0 Hurdle (2007 Katchit, 2009 Walkon, 2012 Grumeti), 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) John Smith’s Red Rum Handicap Chase (2009 Oh Crick), John Smith’s Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (2012 Lovcen) Cheltenham Festival Wins (12): Johnny Henderson Grand Annual (2009 Oh Crick), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Nenuphar Collonges), National Hunt Chase (2008 Old Benny), Stan James Champion Hurdle (2008 Katchit), Stewart Family Spinal Research Handicap Chase (2004 Fork Lightning, 2011 Bensalem), 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) vNumber of Winners (1999/2000-2010/11): 27; 18; 34; 39; 47; 66; 63; 92; 128; 136; 76; 84; Wins this Season: 80

 

Winning Jockey: Robert Thornton Date of birth: 14/7/78 Background: Made a big splash in the 1996/7 season when, at the age of 18, he rode a double on the first day of the Cheltenham Festival (King Lucifer in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup and Pharanear in the Gold Card Final), then added two more wins at Aintree (John Smith's Fox Hunters' Chase on Blue Cheek and the Cordon Bleu Handicap Hurdle aboard Shankar) and secured the amateur riders' title. Is nicknamed "Chocolate" or "Choc" for short due to his penchant for sweets in his younger days,  hails from Leicestershire where his father Martin is a huntsman with the Belvoir and mother Sally trains a couple of point-to-pointers. Worked for the late David Nicholson at Jackdaws Castle after leaving Grantham College at 16 and was later pupil assistant. Was leading conditional rider in the 1997/8 season with 80 wins and has also ridden the winners of four amateur Flat races. After such a flying start, Thornton's career went through something of a lull but after a spell with Kim Bailey he linked up with Alan King at Barbury Castle and the pair have enjoyed great success. Had his hair shaved for charity in June 2007, despite protests from his girlfriend. First Winner Under Rules: K C’s Dancer (Cheltenham, October 25, 1995) Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Melling Chase (2008 Voy Por Ustedes), John Smith’s Great Float Social Club Liverpool Hurdle (2008 Blazing Bailey), Matalan Anniversary 4-Y-0 Hurdle (2007 Katchit, 2009 Walkon, 2012 Grumeti), 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), John Smith’s Red Rum Handicap Chase (2009 Oh Crick), Silver Cross Handicap Hurdle (2010 Sir Harry Ormesher), John Smith's Sefton Novices' Hurdle (2012 Lovcen) Cheltenham Festival wins: (16) Stan James Champion Hurdle (2008 Katchit), Stan James Supreme Novices’ Hurdle (2008 Captain Cee Bee), Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Chase (King Lucifer 1997), Pertemps Final (Pharanear 1997), Stewart Family Spinal Research Handicap Chase (2004 Fork Lightning, 2005 Kelami), JCB Triumph Hurdle (2005 Penzance, 2007 Katchit), Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (2005 Moulin Riche, 2008 Nenuphar Collonges), The Irish Independent Arkle Trophy (2006 Voy Por Ustedes, 2007 My Way De Solzen), Ladbrokes World Hurdle (2006 My Way De Solzen), sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase (2007 Voy Por Ustedes), Johnny Henderson Grand Annual (2007Andreas) Wins (1995/96-2010/11): 3; 30; 71; 37; 23; 40; 56; 50; 73; 97; 73; 99; 105; 119; 68; 52;   Wins this Season: 50

F29.

 

 

 

SIXTH RACE RESULT

 

4.50pm JOHN SMITH’S DAILY MIRROR PUNTERS CLUB 

HANDICAP HURDLE

Listed Race, Class 1, £40,000 Total Prize Fund. For 4yo+, 2m 4f. Minimum weight: 10st. Penalties: after March 31, a winner of a hurdle 4lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £22,780; 2nd: £8,548; 3rd: £4,280; 4th: £2,132; 5th: £1,072; 6th: £536

1) ATTAGLANCE (H Young, G Eifert, R Snyder) Malcolm Jefferson t6-11-12 Harry Haynes 14/1

2) TOUR D'ARGENT (FR) (Michael Buckley) Nicky Henderson 5-10-13 Barry Geraghty 8/1

3) LOS NADIS (GER) (Ian Dalgleish) Jim Goldie 8-10-12 Ryan Mania 66/1

4) SAPHIR RIVER (FR) (Fat Gary Sports) Michael Scudamore 6-11-07 Paul Carberry 33/1

5) HAZY TOM (IRE) (Alan Halsall) Charlie Longsdon 6-11-03 Noel Fehily

6) CAPE DUTCH (IRE) (Bloomfields) John Ferguson 5-11-01 Denis O'Regan

7) KILMACOWEN (IRE) (The Kilmacowens) Fergal O'Brien 6-11-03 Paddy Brennan

8) IT'S A GIMME (IRE) (J P McManus) Jonjo O'Neill 5-11-03 A P McCoy 7/2 Fav

9) STREET ENTERTAINER (IRE) (Barnett, Manasseh & Partners) David Pipe t5-10-11 Conor O'Farrell (3)

10) ALL THE ACES (IRE) (Alan Spence) Nicky Henderson 7-10-13 Andrew Tinkler

11) SKI SUNDAY (Scarlet Pimpernel) Tim Vaughan t7-10-12 Dougie Costello

12) LIKE MINDED (Jim Lewis, Derek Holder & Terry Warner) Paul Nicholls t8-10-08 Harry Derham (7)

13) DARE ME (IRE) (Trevor Hemmings) Philip Hobbs 8-11-01 Richard Johnson

14) ARTHURIAN LEGEND (R T Kanter & A J Scrimgeour) Philip Hobbs 7-11-01 Tom O'Brien

15) ART PROFESSOR (IRE) (Mr & Mrs Jeremy Hancock) Venetia Williams b8-11-00 Aidan Coleman

16) I'M SO LUCKY (Sheila Brookhouse) David Pipe bt10-11-08 Tom Scudamore

17) ACT OF KALANISI (IRE) (C E Stedman & Dr Richard Newland) Dr Richard Newland v1 6-10-12 Brendan Powell (5)

18) BOURNE (Timeform Betfair Racing Club & M Taylor) Donald McCain 6-11-03 Jason Maguire

19) LAVA LAMP (GER) (Janet Davies) Evan Williams 5-11-00 Paul Moloney

PU) ORSIPPUS (USA) (Sandra Smith) Michael Smith 6-11-04 Davy Condon

PU) ROBINSON COLLONGES (FR) (Mr & Mrs G Calder) Paul Nicholls 7-11-04 Ruby Walsh

 

21 ran Non-Runner: Rajnagan (Going)

Distances: 1¾, 10, hd, 1¼, 5, ¾, 1, 2½, 4½, hd, 11, 5, 18, 2¾, 11, 16, nk, 9

Breeder: H Young Breeding: b g Passing Glance - Our Ethel (Be My Chief (USA))

Tote Win: £20.70 Places: £4.00, £2.30, £14.50, £6.80 Exacta: £106.50

 

Winning Trainer: MALCOLM JEFFERSON Based: Newstaed Cottage Stables, Norton, Malton, North Yorkshire Date of birth: 1/12/46 Background: Born into a farming family in Skelton, Malcolm began his working life as a farmhand before joining up with Gordon W Richards at Greystoke aged 20, where he spent 13 years. Date of first licence: 1981 Cheltenham Festival wins (4): Pertemps Final (1994 Tindari, 2012 Cape Tribulation), Champion Bumper (1995 Dato Star), Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (2012 Attaglance) Other big wins: Albert Bartlett (River Don) Novices' Hurdle (2009 Cape Tribulation), Castleford Chase (2006 & 2007 Calatagan), Champion Hurdle Trial (1998 & 2000 Dato Star), Christmas Hurdle (1999 Dato Star), Fighting Fifth Hurdle (1998 & 1999 Dato Star), Heroes Handicap Hurdle (1997 Tullymurry Toff), Long Distance Hurdle (1997 Go-Informal), Rossington Main Novices' Hurdle (2005 Roman Ark) Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (2011 According To Pete) Peter Marsh Handicap Chase (2012 According To Pete) Number of Winners (1990/91-2010/11): 5; 3; 14; 11; 16; 14; 24; 29; 15; 26; 12; 26; 20; 12; 21; 28; 31; 17; 30; 19; 26 Wins this Season: 25

 

Winning Jockey: Harry Haynes Born March 23, 1989 Background: Worked weekends for John Bridger while at school.  Started riding in Arab races aged 16 before moving on to ride in Point to Points, enjoying two winners in between the flags. Raced as an amateur on the Flat originally before becoming a conditional over the Jumps in 2008. First Winner Under Rules: Mythical Charm, Bollinger Champagne Challenge Series Handicap, Goodwood, August 13, 2005 Cheltenham Festival Wins (1): Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle (2012 Attaglance) Big race wins: Rowland Meyrick Handicap Chase (2011 According To Pete)  Peter Marsh Chase (2012 According To Pete) Jumps Wins (2007/08-2010/11): 11; 14; 19; 16 Wins This Season: 13

 

 

 

SEVENTH RACE RESULT

 

5.25pm JOHN SMITH’S MARES’ STANDARD OPEN 

NATIONAL HUNT FLAT RACE

Listed Race, Class 1, £25,000 Total Prize Fund. For 4-6 yo mares which have not run under any recognised Rules of Racing, except National Hunt Flat races, Irish National Hunt Flat race or French AQPS Flat races. Horses to have not run in more than four races or in five races if the fifth run was in the Mares’ Listed National Hunt Flat Race held at Sandown Park on March 10, 2012. 2m 1f. Weights: 4yo 10st 8lb; 5 & 6yo 11st. Penalties: a winner of a race 4lb. Penalty Values: 1st: £14,237.50; 2nd: £5,342.50; 3rd: £2,675; 4th: £1,332.50; 5th: £670; 6th: £335

 

1) ELEVEN FIFTY NINE (M Rowe & B Wright) Anthony Honeyball 6-11-01 Rachael Green (3) 6/1

2) CALL ME A STAR (Mrs K Holmes) Alan King 5-11-04 Robert Thornton 3/1 Fav

3) UMADACHAR (FR) (Tracy Brown) Warren Greatrex 4-10-12 Noel Fehily 17/2

4) AS I AM (IRE) (Don Cantillon) Don Cantillon 4-10-12 Leighton Aspell

5) DR MACHINI (IRE) (Ann & Alan Potts Partnership) Willie Mullins IRE 5-11-04 Mr Patrick Mullins

6) FLEMENTIME (IRE) (Figjam II) Martin Keighley 4-10-12 Alain Cawley

7) BONNIE BURNETT (IRE) (Greta & Andrew Sparks) Brian Rothwell 5-11-00 Tom O'Brien

8) MISSUNITED (IRE) (Vanessa Hutch) Michael  Winters IRE 5-10-11 Mr Niall Kelly (7)

9) DOYLY CARTE (Elite Racing Club) Donald McCain 4-10-12 Jason Maguire

10) BUXOM (IRE) (David Redvers) Oliver Sherwood 5-11-04 Barry Geraghty

11) DILIGENT (Chasing Gold Racing Club) Donald McCain 4-10-12 Adrian Lane

12) SHE WILL ROCK YOU (IRE) (A Barclay) Lucinda Russell 5-11-00 Peter Buchanan

13) GINGER FIZZ (Itchen Valley Stud) Ben Case 5-11-04 Dominic Elsworth

14) AMBER CLOUD (Dominic Burke) Jonjo O'Neill 5-11-04 A P McCoy

15) BLASE CHEVALIER (IRE) (Andrew Cocks & Tara Johnson) Seamus Mullins 6-11-04 Jamie Moore

16) SUN LADY (FR) (G A Smith) Jane Walton 6-10-07 Alistair Findlay (7)

17) DUCHESS THEATRE (IRE) (Peter Deal) Mick Easterby 4-10-03 Jake Greenall (5)

18) JUNE FRENCH (FR) (Brigadier Racing) Ian Williams 4-9-12 Patrick Corbett (10)

19) ROCK ME GENTLY (Richard Aston) Oliver Sherwood 5-10-07 Willy Twiston-Davies (7)

20) HIDDEN LITE (IRE) (John Kilroy/Mrs Charles Farrell) Eddie Hales IRE 4-10-12 Ruby Walsh

 

20 ran

Distances: 1½, ½, ¾, 7, 10, ¾, 1½, 4, 7, 5, 9, 3¾, 1, ¾, 12, 3¼, 42, 15, 2¾   

Breeder: M Rowe Breeding: b m Midnight Legend - Essex Bird (Primitive Rising (USA))

Tote Win: £7.30 Places: £2.80; £1.90; £3.80 Exacfta: £26.80

 

Winning Trainer: Anthony Honeyball Born: May 2, 1980 Based: Hemmings, Seaborough, Beaminster Background: Son of former trainer & master of the Taunton Vale Hunt John Honeyball, who trained The Dikler to win his first point-to-point. Mother Sue was a talented show jumper. Anthony both worked and rode as an amateur for Richard Barber and progressed as a conditional jockey for Paul Nicholls, riding 45 winners under rules, before he began his training career in 2006. First Winner Under Rules: Classic Fair, Holly & the Ivy Mares' Only Maiden Hurdle, Taunton, December 18, 2006 Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (2012 Eleven Fifty Nine) Wins (2006/07-2010/11): 1; 3; 11; 4; 14 Wins This Season: 24

 

Winning Jockey: Rachael Green Wins (2002/03-2010/11): 0: 2; 0: 0: 1; 7; 0; 4; 2; 9 Aintree Festival Wins: John Smith’s Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (2012 Eleven Fifty Nine)  Wins This Season: 21