Champ Manual Stride Analysis G1 Challow Nov Hurdle 20.5f Newb

Manual Stride Speed Analysis

Strides/10s *11

19.92 20.36 20.66 20.83 22.32 22.32 23.04 23.20* 22.32 22.83 21.18

• Cruising Speed Av 20.61
• Peak Speed 23.20
• Final 100m 21.18

1. Cruising Speed% V Peak 88.83
2. Final 100m% V Peak 91.29
3. Final 100m% V Cruising 102.76

Champ Notes:

An early slow pace clouding issues. Keen early off an easy 5 second 10 stride pace. Jumping speed impressed with a 0.44s jump recorded late on. The most impressive attribute of Champ is once he reached 22.32 strides/10s he was able to maintain or sustain that value or higher, which included peaking, to 125m from line or  for a whooping 38sec.

Only 5 G1 NH horses I’ve recorded have had a faster stride peak speed of 4.31s or faster for 10 strides.

Physically ungainly with big outward-inward frontal rotation or nonlinear movement. High probability of front leg trauma and soundness issues going forward. Potentially a top class stayer who may cope with a drop back in trip. Ideally suited to 20f. His jump speed is already at a Champion Hurdler speed level. Novice who wouldn’t look out of place against seasoned hurdlers at top level.

Week 50: Mon 7 Dec- Sun 13 Dec #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 50: Mon 7 Dec-Sun 13 Dec’15

Another 10 winners to report on from Avondhu area locals based in the UK with Castletownroche natives recording no less than 7 of those winners. Brian Harding took the honours last week with four winners, followed closely by Jonjo O’Neill with 3 winners. Kilworth native, Martin Lane added a further 2 winners, with Killeagh native Liam Keniry riding one winner. This takes our 2015 combined winning total onto the 467 winner mark.

Harding’s Still Got The Nac

Castletownroche native and jump jockey, Brian Harding, is riding out of his skin at the moment and added another four winners in week 50, this, taking his seasonal total on to the 26 winner mark. His most notable winner came aboard the Keith Dalgleish trained, Got The Nac(4/1), who took the 6 runner, 188Bet Novices’ Chase(C4), over 16.5f, at Newcastle, on December 10th last. Returning from an extended 8-month break, this six-year-old gelded son of Beneficial, was having his first start for Dalgleish, after changing hands for £40,000, at Doncaster sales, in April, this year. Having only his third chase start, after finishing second on his two previous runs over fences, Got The Nac, was a market drifter and settled early, in rear, it was clear from the outset that Harding was going to have his work cut out on this keen going sort. Pulling his way through runners, Got The Nac, was already upsides early leaders, Duhallowcountry and Kiama Bay approached the second fence. Bold over that fence, Got The Nac, galloped on into the lead with Harding allowing him his own way in front as the field passed the winning post first time round. Looking very enthusiastic in front and settling better, Got The Nac, winged fences as he came upon them and quickly had his closest market rivals on the stretch from a long way out. Continually judging his fences well, Harding, seemed content not to disappoint his mount and turning into the top of the home stretch he only has one horse, Special Catch, in vain pursuit. Foot perfect again over three out, Got The Nac, was giving his rivals a lesson in jumping and sailing over the last two fences, this Richard & Katherine Gilbert owned gelding, sauntered up the long run-in, to win eased down by six lengths. Recording his second win, having previously won over hurdles, Got The Nac, is rated 123 over fences and after demolishing a 129 rated horse in Special Catch by six lengths, I would expect no mercy from the handicapper, with at least a 10lb rise. Seemingly ground dependent with heavy or soft in all his best form, Got The Nac, looks a nice sort going forward and should be competitive at a higher level.
Harding went on to record another three winners and followed up his win aboard Got The Nac, with a Newcastle double, aboard the Nicky Richards trained, Betameche(13/8f), who took the 8 runner, 188Bet National Hunt Flat Race(C6), over 16.5f, on racecourse debut. Harding’s third winner came earlier in the week aboard another Nicky Richards trained inmate, this time in the shape of Baywing(7/4f), who defied a 15lb penalty for his recent Carlisle win, by taking the 8 runner, Douglas Family H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 20f, at Uttoxeter, on December 8th. Harding’s fourth winner came aboard a third Nicky Richards trained horse, in Western Rules(4/9f), who took the 5 runner, 188Bet Novices’ Hurdle(C4), over 19.5f, at Carlisle, on Dec 13th last. Recording his first hurdles win, on only his fifth start, this five-year-old gelded son of Westerner, is also a dual bumper winner and looks a nice prospect going forward. He made up for been beaten at 1/4f last time out, at Kelso.
Harding was unlucky not to make it five wins, after a fall early on the card, at Doncaster, last Saturday, caused him to be stood down. One of his intended mounts, Southfield Royale, went on to win a Grade 2 Novices’ Chase, later in the day. Harding was back riding and in the winners circle, the following day, at Carlisle.

O’Neill Has One Eye On Gold Cup With More Of That

Castletownroche native and trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, registered another three winners last week, this, taking his seasonal total on to the 60 winner mark. His most significant winner came with the Barry Geraghty ridden, More Of That(1/3f), who scored in the 3 runner, Raymond Mould Novices’ Chase(C2), over 21f, at Cheltenham, on December 12th last. Making his second chase start and bidding to keep his 100% Cheltenham course record intact, this seven-year-old gelded son of Beneficial, looked to enhance his growing reputation as a possible future Gold Cup contender. With just three runners, this contest could have got messy tactically but Geraghty decided to push on with Sametegal for company over the first three fences. Leading outright over the fourth fence, More Of That, jumped economically and looked smart at his fences even if on the wrong stride. Joined again by the persistent Sametegal at the 8th fence, More Of That, wasn’t going to have it all his own way as this race unfolded and it was clear this would be more than just a stroll around Prestbury Park for the former World Hurdle winner. With just three to jump, this race was turned on its head with Sametegal making a serious mistake and Padge slipping on landing and unseating Noel Fehily. Taking swift advantage, More Of That, asserted from then on and despite measuring the final two fences well he had to be kept up to his work before finally making his undoubted class tell halfway up the run-in. Ridden out, this J P McManus owned gelding, stayed on strongly to win by some 13 lengths from the only other finisher, Sametegal, back in second. Recording his 7th win from 8 starts and now 4/4 at Cheltenham, More Of That, has been talked up as a possible Gold Cup horse this season. With last years Gold Cup winner, Coneygree, the first novice to win jump racings most coveted crown since Captain Christy, back in 1974, you can see why connections are thinking this way. While we didn’t learn anything new from this performance, the experience itself will not be lost on More Of That. He has other options like the RSA Chase and coming back in trip for the JLT Chase. Meanwhile, we may not see him again until the festival in March, which would be a real shame. Jonjo O’Neill, winning trainer, said, “More Of That could go either way two and a half miles or three miles, and I’m not being smart. He’s got plenty of pace and although his full-brother was only a two-mile horse he got a trip well too. He could even go for the Gold Cup. Why not? I’ll have to talk to the boys but I wouldn’t be afraid to put him in it. He’s one of those horses who keeps plenty for himself.”
O’Neill went on to record another two winners and they were in date order, Utility(1/1f), who took the 7 runner, Pirelli Blue Shift National Hunt Flat Race(C6), over 15.5f, at Uttoxeter, on December 8th, under Richard Johnson, on racecourse debut and finally O’Neill’s third winner came again with Johnson aboard the J P McManus owned, Suit Yourself(10/3), who won the 9 runner, 188Bet Novices’ Hurdle(C4), over 17f, at Carlisle, on December 13th last.

Lane Sure Can Tango With Southwell Double

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, brought up a Southwell double, on Saturday, December 12th, this, bringing his 2015 total on to the 53 winner mark. His most notable win came aboard the Derek Shaw trained, Shawkantango(9/4f), who took the 13 runner, Unibet H’cap(C6), over 5f. Back into low Class 6 company(0-52), off top-weight, this eight-year-old gelded son of Piccolo, had the services of Lane, back on board this horse, after a nearly five-year absence. Slow to stride and awkward leaving the gate, Shawkantango, was soon well outpaced in rear, as Lane, pushed and shoved his mount for all he was worth as the early pace was set out by Argent Touch. As is his style of running, Shawkantango, slowly reeled in the leaders passing the halfway point and was now sighted picking off horses one by one, as Touch The Clouds took his turn at the head of affairs. Soon on terms, as yet another leader, George Bailey, hit the front over one furlong out, Shawkantango, was soon eating up the sand and hitting the front well inside the final furlong, this Shawthing Racing Partnership owned gelding, ran on stoutly to the line to reward his supporters. Recording his 12th win from 80 starts, Shawkantango, has now notched up 8 wins from 22 starts over this course and distance. Winning his first handicap in two years, he has seen his handicap mark slip from 74 down to 52 and surely he wasn’t winning out of turn. Described by his trainer-breeder, Shaw, as a one-trick pony, Shawkantango, does all his winning between December and April, having never tasted success in the Summer or Autumn. Derek Shaw, winning trainer, said, “There’s been hardly any suitable races here for him since the summer. He’s a one-trick pony and this was his Derby. How long more I go on with him, considering your always relying on just one course, remains to be seen.”
Lane went on to bring up a 67/1 double in the very next race, aboard the John Davies trained, Major Rowan(20/1), who won the 8 runner, 32Red H’cap(C6), over 14f. Recording his second course win, the last of which came over 8f, this David Cox owned and bred four-year-old gelded son of Captain Gerrard, was returning to the track after a four-month break. Also having his first start for Davies, after moving to his Durham base only two months ago, he looked to settle better than in his most recent races and could make up into a jumper in time. Rated only 47 here, he has plenty of headroom on the handicapping scale.

Hearmenow Purrs Under Keniry

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, recorded his 58th winner of 2015, aboard the Stan Moore trained, Hearmenow(3/1), who went onto take the 9 runner, Unibet Racing Selling Stakes(C6), over 6f, at Lingfield Park, on December 7th last. Back into Selling company, after a close-up second last time out, this two-year-old gelded son of Kodiac, was dropped back to 6f, with cheekpieces reapplied. Well away, with a blind used on stalls entry, Hearmenow, was soon settled into second place, off a solid looking gallop, set by Mustn’t Grumble, who looked to have this field well stretched out passing the halfway point. Switched around the leader to challenge well over three-furlongs out, Hearmenow, was soon upsides Mustn’t Grumble, who looked there for the taking. Joining and passing the leader right on the two-furlong marker, Hearmenow, had race favourite, Burmese Whisper, hot on his heels, as he entered the top of the home straight. Snatching a two length lead over Burmese Whisper off the home turn, Keniry, was soon hard at work and ridden out strongly, his mount was always doing enough to hold off the late attentions of his nearest pursuer. Going on to win by some three-quarters of a length, this, M. Fitzpatrick and Stan Moore owned gelding, broke his maiden tag here, on this, only his sixth start. With all his races coming over the last 9 weeks or so, Hearmenow, looks tough and can only improve with racing. Rated 62, he was bought back in for 4,000gns, after again confirming his superiority over Burmese Whisper, who finished behind him in fourth, at Wolverhampton, last time out.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 463
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
15/12/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 49: Mon 30 Nov- Sun 6 Dec #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 49: Mon 30 Nov-Sun 6 Dec’15

Another 8 winners to report on from Avondhu area locals based in the UK. Liam Keniry took the honours last week with 3 winners, he was followed closely by Jonjo O’Neill with 2 winners, with Maurice Linehan, Brian Harding and Martin Lane added a winner apiece. This takes our 2015 combined winning total onto the 457 winner mark.

Candyman Cans Second Race In A Row

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, kept up his recent rich vein of form, riding another three winners in week 49, this, taking his 2015 total on to the 57 winner mark. His highest class win came aboard the Willie Musson trained, Candyman Can(15/8f), who took the 8 runner, 32Red H’cap(C5), at Kempton Park, on December 3rd last. Backing up his recent course win under Keniry and back up in trip to 12f, this five-year-old gelded son of Holy Roman Emperor, was also bidding to defy a rise in class and a penalty. Drawn widest of all, Candyman Can, was well away from the gate and settled into second place off what looked a very slow pace. Passing the winning post with a full circuit to go and Keniry moved alongside the reluctant leader, Shadow Rock, eventually taking over in front and moving on at a slightly increased tempo. Controlling every aspect of this race and literally anchoring Candyman Can in front, Keniry, sat quiet and waited until passing the half mile pole to up the anti. Slowly winding up the tempo, Candyman Can, entered the home straight full of running and ridden fully two furlongs out at the cutaway, this Miss A Jones owned gelding, had all the answers to repel latecomers, who one by one, stacked up behind him. Hanging slightly towards the centre of the track, Candyman Can, stayed on well to win handily in the end by some one and a half lengths from Indira back in second. It was a further head back to hat-trick seeking, Saint Honore, in third. Recording his third win from 17 starts in total, Candyman Can, has come back in great form from a summer break. Carrying top-weight here with a rating of 70, he may now have to go up in class if reassessed above 76. Life will become much harder and he won’t get things his way so easily in future races. Willie Musson, winning trainer, said, “Candyman Can had a setback in the spring and it has taken him a long time to come back. He wears a hood at home every day as he’s a bit quirky but he’s got stronger with age.” Liam Keniry, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Candyman Can is improving all the time and ought to be able to win again as he only just does enough in front. I think he still has a bit up his sleeve.”
Keniry went on to ride another two winners, both of which were trained by Neil Mulholland. They were in date order, Greek Islands(22/1), who won the 11 runner, Ladbrokes H’cap(C6), over 8.5f, at Wolverhampton, on December 1st and finally, Lions Charge(5/2f), who followed up his recent win at Wolverhampton, again under Keniry, by taking the 13 runner, IseHove H’cap(C6), over 12f, at Kempton, on December 2nd last.

Lithic A Chip Off The Old Block

Castletownroche native and trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, added a further two winners to his ever increasing total in week 49, taking his winning total on to the 57 winner mark. His most notable win came with the Richard Johnson ridden, Lithic(11/4f), who took the 12 runner, Southwell National Hunt Flat Race(C6), over 15.5f, at Southwell, on December 1st last. Making his racecourse debut, this well supported four-year-old gelded son of Westerner, looked fit and ready to do himself justice. Held up in rear early, as the pace was set by Ballypoint, Lithic, settled well, off a steady gallop, while others pulled a bit too hard. Always able to position his mount where he wanted, Johnson, sighted the Dan Skelton ridden, Tommy Rapper, as the main threat and followed him throughout this race. With the field well bunched going out on their final circuit, Ballypoint, increased the tempo slightly entering the back straight as Prince Of Steal joined him up his inside going well. The wheat was now separated from the chaff, as one by one, horses began to fade out of contention. This left just five contenders entering the home turn, each going as well as the other. Three horses stood out, Lithic, Tommy Rapper and Alexander The Grey and they duly strode on with little answers coming from the closers. Early leader, Ballypoint, faded away disappointingly, while up front, both Lithic and Tommy The Rapper, looked set to fight out this finish. Ridden to go about his business, Lithic, picked up nicely for Johnson and soon had the upper hand over Tommy The Rapper. Striding clear, this Jon & Julie Aisbitt owned gelding, had little to concern himself inside the final furlong, going on to win by some five lengths in the end, from Tommy Rapper back in second. It was a further 12 lengths back to Prince Of Steal in third. Bred locally by Declan Dorgan, in Bartlemy, Lithic, is a half-brother to promising bumper winner, Ok Corral, out of a full-sister to the mighty Tidal Bay and he looks a chip off the old block.
O’Neill’s second winner also came with another youngster, in the shape of the Richard Johnson ridden, The Tailgater(5/1), who scored in the 7 runner, Racing UK National Hunt Flat Race(C6), over 15.5f, at Catterick, on December 2nd last. Having his first start for O’Neill and second run in total, this Paul & Clare Rooney owned four-year-old gelded son of Oscar, was a former inmate of Donald McCain, who ironically trained the second, Mo Chailin. Richard Johnson, riding his 21st winner for O’Neill this season, said, “The Tailgater was just a bit green when he got there and he should get nicer and nicer with time.”

Boy Can Mix It With Best

Castletownroche native and jump jockey, Brian Harding, recorded his 21st winner of the season, aboard the Keith Dalgleish trained, Mixboy(9/2), who went onto take the 8 runner, Roflow Air Ambulance H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 17f, at Sedgefield, on December 4th last. Off the track for almost a year and making his handicap hurdle debut, this five-year-old grey gelded son of Fragrant Mix, was also having his first start for the Dalgleish team after transferring from Donald McCain’s yard only last month. Settled into fourth, off a fair pace, set by Irish-trained Mighty Whitey, Mixboy, looked to stay wide of runners, presumably looking for better ground in very testing conditions. With the leader taken on early by the Danny Cook ridden Blake Dean, who seemed to lead himself after jumping the third flight, the pace lifted going out on the final circuit and in a bunching field, Mixboy, was sighted travelling easily under a quiet sitting Harding. Now only a length off the front pair and still travelling widest off all, Mixboy, took closer order as the head-on camera angle showed a field of fanned out runners going down to four out. As Mighty Whitey and Blake Dean succumbed to their early exertions, it was Orchard Road and Jonathan England, who lead over three out, with Harding tanking to his outside in second. With his mount taking him into the lead soon after jumping the third last, Harding sat motionless until entering the top of the home straight, where he let Mixboy stride on down towards two out. Putting daylight between himself and the one closer, Sailors Warn, Mixboy, strode out nicely and popping the last, he just had to be kept up to his job to go on and win handily by some four and a half lengths. Recording his first win, on this, his fifth start, this Paul & Clare Rooney owned gelding, looks very much open to further improvement and winning here off an opening handicap mark of 115, he should be well capable of going in again off a penalty.

Cyrius Looks Serious Prospect Under Linehan

Fermoy native and conditional jump jockey, Maurice Linehan, picked up a spare winning ride, aboard the Ben Pauling trained, Cyrius Moriviere(20/1), who took the 15 runner, Betfred Novices’ Hurdle(C4), over 15.5f, at Huntingdon, on December 6th last. Coming here off a decent run last time out, over course and distance, behind subsequent Sandown winner, O O Seven, this five-year-old gelded son of Vendangeur, was sent to post at very generous odds if that form was taken literally. Jumping off in second place behind early pacesetter, Artiste Du Gouet, Cyrius Moriviere, settled well in Linehan’s hands, off a steady pace which only increased when Instant Karma took over in front after jumping the third of 8 flights of hurdles. Always jumping and travelling well down the far-side, Cyrius Moriviere, jumped his way into the lead between the fourth and third last. With Instant Karma briefly coming upsides, it was clear from this snapshot that Linehan had that rival well and truly covered. In front on landing over three-out, Cyrius Moriviere, looked to be full of running, with only race favourite, Waterlord, going with him entering the top of the home straight. Two to three lengths up over the second last, Cyrius Moriviere, just kept on rolling, leaving Waterlord in his wake approaching the last. Jumping the last three lengths up, Linehan, rode out his mount up the short run-in, going on to win readily in the end by some one and a half lengths. Waterlord did well on hurdles debut back in second. With the front two clear, it was a further 10 lengths back to Midnight Cowboy in third. Recording his first win, on this, only his fourth start, this Pillar P Partnership owned gelding, looks a hugely progressive horse and his frame suggests he will only get better with time. Another former Donald McCain trained inmate, the third mentioned in this column alone, Cyrius Moriviere, benefited from a positive Linehan ride and appreciated this drop back in trip. Linehan was riding his 5th winner of the season and second for former Nicky Henderson assistant, Pauling, who looks a real trainer of note and whose runners are worth a second glance.
Maurice Linehan, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Cyrius Moriviere is a nice horse that looks to have a bright future. I’m really looking forward to him stepping up in grade.”

Equleus Rocks & Rolls Under Lane

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, added a further winner to his 2015 total, which now stands at 51. His win came aboard the Jeremy Gask trained, Equleus(7/1), who went on to take the 14 runner, IseHove H’cap(C6), over 8f, at Kempton, on November 30th last. Still looking for that elusive first win and in first time cheekpieces, this three-year-old gelded son of Equiano, was also dropped back in trip having been tried at various distances from 6f to 10f. Drawn 2 on the inside, Equleus, was slow to stride and settled in about 5th position off an early contested lead which eventually resulted in Exalted bagging the front posse and setting a sensible pace. Keen going towards the inside, Equleus, looked to always travel well and although losing a couple of places before the halfway point he always had good track position as the field passed the three-furlong marker and entered the home straight. Ridden towards the cutaway two out and with a huge gap appearing in front of him, Equleus, soon reeled in the leaders which now included Dandys Perier who just headed long time leader, Exalted, before the one pole. Hitting the front virtually on the one pole, Lane, got busy in the saddle and his mount responded generously to pressure, staying on strongly, to win going away, by some one and a half lengths, from Dandys Perier back in second. It was a further half a length back to late closer, Choral Clan in third. Recording his first win and looking to excel at this trip, this Rock & Rollers owned gelding, was winning here off a mark of 58 having dropped 7lbs from 65 since his opening handicap run. He’s lightly raced and should be open to further improvement.

Mondialiste Set Fair For G1 Hong Kong Mile

In other news, Fermoy native and trainer, David O’Meara, can look forward to running Mondialiste, in the Group 1 Hong Kong Mile, at Sha Tin, on this Sunday, December 13th. The race off-time is 7.50 which I presume is our time early Sunday morning and after two cancelled flights, Mondialiste and his travelling head lad, Fearghal Davies, touched down in Hong Kong, early last Monday. He travelled well and all seems to have gone to plan. We wish all concerned the very best of luck.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 453
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
08/12/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 48: Mon 23 Nov- Sun 29 Nov #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 48: Mon 23 Nov-Sun 29 Nov’15

Another 11 winners combined for Avondhu area locals based in the UK. Martin Lane took the honours last week with four winners, followed by two winners apiece from Jonjo O’Neill and Liam Keniry and a winner each for Richie McLernon, Brian Harding and David O’Meara. Our combined 2015 winners total now stands at 449.

Lane Hits 50 While Medicean Hits 500

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, brought up his half-century of domestic winners in no uncertain fashion, with four successes last week, the highlight of which came aboard the Jeremy Gask trained, Medicean Man(10/1), who went on to take the 12 runner, Tote H’cap(C2), over 5f, at Chelmsford, on November 23rd last. Dropped back into handicap company for the first time since February this year, this 9-year-old gelded son of Medicean, was also having his first spin around this track, with Lane hoping for an end-to-end gallop. This gallop seemed assured from the outset, as the trailblazer, Come On Dave, set out to make all, as Lane and Medicean Man dropped out in rear up the inside of runners. Taken on and passed for the lead, by Secret Missile, at the three pole, Come On Dave, found himself back in front rounding the home turn, as this field congregated up the centre of the track on straightening up for home. With a line of horses queueing up to challenge on the front end, Medicean Man, found a huge gap up the inside and stoked up by Lane, he was sighted reeling in the leaders passing the one marker. Getting on top with well over half a furlong to go, this Stuart & Kate Dobb owned gelding, fairly flew home to stamp his authority on this race right where it mattered most. Winning readily in the end, Medicean Man, had too much class for his rivals here, putting one length between himself and the second, Brother Tiger. It was a further half a length back to Dynamo Walt, in third. Winning off a mark of 102 here, which ensured he carried top-weight, Medicean Man, is a credit to all concerned and with £29,000 up for grabs here, he has now broken through the £500,000 prize money barrier. Winning his 12th race, on this, his 64th start, he will now possibly return to Dubai this winter, where he has been successful three times in the past, the last win coming with Lane aboard. Breaking the track record here and showing how effective he still can be off a solid gallop, Medicean Man, hasn’t been rated below 101 since July 2011 and must be a dream horse to own and train. Jeremy Gask, winning trainer, said, “I would think that Medicean Man will go to Dubai after that. He’s won out there in the past and doesn’t winter very well here. He was pretty hairy today.” Lane will again be riding in Dubai this winter and will out to warmer climbs after Christmas. Martin Lane, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “He was the class horse in this field and only just missed out on a Group 1 win this summer, showing clearly his ability isn’t fading. He’s not the most consistent type and usually does best in the sunshine. He turned up today and thankfully did it all in a very straightforward manner.”
Lane went on to ride a further three winners and they were in date order, Show Me Again(7/1), who was the first leg of a Monday double for Lane at Chelmsford, when taking the 7 runner, Tote Nursery H’cap(C4), over 8f, on November 23rd, for trainer David Dennis. Lane kept his love for Chelmsford alive with another winner, aboard the Ralph Beckett trained, Crowning Glory(11/1), who scored her first win, in the 10 runner, Tote Maiden Fillies’ Stakes(C4), over 7f, on November 26th and finally Lane, finished off the week nicely with a Wolverhampton winner, aboard the Charlie Appleby trained, Sparring(2/1), who took the 8 runner, Coral H’cap(C3), over 12f, on November 28th last.

Back On Song And Options Aplenty

Liscarroll native and jump jockey, Richie McLernon, teamed up with fellow Avondhu and Castletownroche native, Jonjo O’Neill, aboard I’dliketheoption(10/1), when taking the 6 runner, Betdaq H’cap Hurdle(C3), over 16.5f, at Doncaster, on November 28th last. Coming here off the back of a disappointing run on handicap debut, last time out, at Ascot, this, four-year-old gelded son of Presenting, was looking to make amends, up in grade, but back down almost three furlongs in trip. With tongue tie retained, I’dliketheoption, was settled in rear off a steady early pace set by race favourite, Zulu Oscar, who seemed committed to controlling this race from the front. Jumping well and always taking the shortest route around, I’dliketheoption, travelled nicely into this race as the pace finally began to lift over four out. The runners entered the top of the home straight with one less runner, as Bobs Lady Tamure pulled up, as if amiss, after jumping the fourth last. Still bounding along in front, Zulu Oscar, began to wind it up, as Double W’s came there full of running upsides over three out. Meanwhile, McLernon and I’dliketheoption tagged onto the heels of the front pair running down to two out, where Zulu Oscar again began to assert in front. An awkward jump over the second last saw Double W’s all but scupper his chances and this race was left as a match-up between Zulu Oscar and I’dliketheoption. Coming to challenge under a strong ride approaching the last, I’dliketheoption, got to within a neck of Zulu Oscar, only for the latter to come crashing down over the last. Left with a clear and unassailable lead, this J P McManus owned gelding, was eased down for a 12 length win from Double W’s, back in second. It’s always good to have luck on your side and it would have been a close run thing if the favourite stood up. He definitely didn’t deserve to go out like that, but all was well, as Zulu Oscar rose to feet unscathed. Recording his third win from just six starts, I’dliketheoption, benefited from a drop back in trip and should go on from this. He has plenty of time on his side and will make a fine chaser down the line. McLernon was riding his 20th winner of the season.
O’Neill went onto record another winner with the Richard Johnson ridden, Spookydooky(9/1), who scored on handicap chase debut, when taking the 12 runner, Bet365 Novices’ H’cap Chase(C3), over 22.5f, at Newbury, on November 26th last. Having only his second chase start under rules, this former Kilworth point-to-point winner, just got the better of a tight finish, winning by a head, from the Paul Nicholls trained, Warrior’s Tale. O’Neill was recording his 55th winner of the season with Johnson riding 19 of those winners from 60 rides.

Keniry’s Got A Real Buddy In Sheila

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, registered another two winners in week 48, this, taking his 2015 winning total on to the 54 winner mark. His most notable win came aboard the Stan Moore trained, Sheila’s Buddy(8/1), who went on to take the 10 runner, Coral H’cap(C5), over 9.5f, at Wolverhampton, on November 27th last. Back on a favoured surface and dropped significantly in class, this six-year-old gelded son of Reel Buddy, was bidding to get back to winning ways, after last tasting success off the same mark of 75, back in July 2014. Drawn widest of all in 10, Sheila’s Buddy, was well away and dropped in rear early, as a contested lead developed between Mr Frankie and Comanche Chieftain. With the pace relentless, as the front pair strung out the field after some three furlongs, Keniry took closer order in 7th, always travelling well within himself, some seven lengths off the leaders. With target stamped on the front pairs backs, it was Mr Frankie who first cracked, as Comanche Chieftain took the lead outright, well over half a mile from home. Comanche Chieftain had no sooner taken the lead when the field closed right up, with race favourite, Monolito, catching the eye, cruising around runners entering the home turn. With Comanche Chieftain taken out by Monolito at the top of the home straight, it was Keniry and Sheila’s Buddy who now filled the eye. Brought widest to challenge well over one furlong out, Sheila’s Buddy, came alongside Monolito just outside the one pole and ridden out, he duly put daylight between himself and the closers, going on to win in the end by one and three-quarter lengths from Karnage back in second. It was a further three and three-quarter lengths back to Dolphin Village in third. Recording his sixth win in total, with Keniry aboard on five of those occasions, this Ray Styles owned gelding, has dropped back to a mark of 75, this, just inside the class 5 company cut off point. His record in class 5 races reads 5/14 and he is always worth noting dropped to this grade on a synthetic surface. If anything he was well over-priced on this stat alone, being 1/37 in class 4 races or higher.
Keniry’s second winner also came at Wolverhampton, on Saturday, November 28th, aboard the Tom Dascombe trained, Mr Christopher(3/1), who recorded his first win, on this, his 9th start, by taking the 12 runner, Ladbrokes H’cap(C6), over 7f.

Big Mac N Cheese Churns Out Easy Win

Castletownroche native and jump jockey, Brian Harding, recorded his 20th winner of the season, aboard the Rose Dobbin trained, Mac N Cheese(15/2), who scored in the 11 runner, Boxing Day Tickets H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 19.5f, at Wetherby, on November 25th last. Coming here off some disappointing runs, this, five-year-old gelded son of Milan, had seen an opening handicap mark of 95 drop to 89 and with prevailing ground conditions testing it was hoped that this would bring about some improvement. With the keen going Diamond D’Amour making this a real test for conditions, Harding, again bided his time in mid-division and didn’t make any significant headway until closing in on the leaders going down over the fifth flight of hurdles. Travelling supremely easily and looking to revel in conditions, Mac N Cheese, moved effortlessly into second place just off Diamond D’Amour going to three out. Coming alongside the leader and produced with perfection by Harding, Mac N Cheese, strolled into the lead approaching the last with Diamond D’Amour now paying for his early reluctance to settle. Driven out, this Richard & Katherine Gilbert owned gelded, had all the answers for Harding, going on to win by 8 lengths in the end from Diamond D’Amour back in second. It was a massive 29 lengths back to Peterpanopirateman in third. A first win for this nice looking son of Milan, whose full-brother, Milborough, won last year’s Eider Chase and it’s plain to see that he is a long-term project for connections. He will no doubt struggle to be rated below 100 after this win and chasing looks his game in the coming seasons. Richard Gilbert, winning co-owner, went on to say, “Mac N Cheese is one for the future and won’t run many more times this season. He seemed to love this heavy ground and his full-brother won last year’s Eider, so staying chases will be his game next year.”

Hazel Gives In Running Boys The Blues

Fermoy native and trainer, David O’Meara, recorded his 121st winner of 2015, with the Josh Doyle(7) ridden, Hazel Blue(3/1f), who won the 12 runner, Coral H’cap(C6), over 9.5f, at Wolverhampton, on November 28th last. Having only her second start for O’Meara and stepped up significantly in distance compared to her 6f run last time out, this, four-year-old Kodiac filly, looked well at home on a polytrack surface, having won her only previous race, at Dundalk, back in July 2014. Well away from a wide draw in ten, Hazel Blue, was eventually tucked in towards the outside of runners, as the keen going, Overrider, pulled his way to the front, under Oisin Murphy. With a solid looking pace on show, Overrider, took no prisoners, as Doyle found himself with only one horse behind him on passing the halfway point. Always sighted travelling well, Hazel Blue, was going to need luck in running and an out, as the leaders bombed towards the final bend. With Les Gar Gan edging left and doing Overrider no favours on hitting the front at the top of the home straight, Hazel Blue, was switched around runners, to the outside, by Doyle. Coming widest of all and with Quite Sparky now in front, Hazel Blue, began to inhale this field along with fellow closer Elle Rebelle. With both horses bearing down on the line, it looked for all as if Elle Rebelle had timed her run to perfection, only for Doyle and Hazel Blue to nail her right on the line. With a whisker between the two and the course commentator calling Elle Rebelle the winner on first crossing, this outcome was left to the judge, who, after due care and pixel magnification, called Hazel Blue the winner by a nose. It was a further one and a half lengths back to Quite Sparky in third. With the second horse trading at 1.01(1/100) in running, the fast pictures boys got their fingers burnt in what turned out to be a roller-coaster race of changing fortune. Recording her second win and possibly the lowest rated horse in O’Meara’s yard at 46, Hazel Blue, has plenty of room to improve. She was the third Avondhu winner on the night at Wolverhampton following on winners from Martin Lane and Liam Keniry earlier on the card.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 445
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
01/12/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 47: Mon 16 Nov- Sun 22 Nov #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 47: Mon 16 Nov-Sun 22 Nov’15

Back down to earth with a bang this week but still 7 winners to report from Avondhu area locals both based and not based in the UK. We have three winners from Jonjo O’Neill and one winner apiece from Liam Keniry, David O’Meara, Conor Ring and that man again Ronnie O’Leary. Our combined 2015 winners total now stands at 438.

Capard The King Of O’Neill Trio

Castletownroche native and trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, kept up his winning momentum, with another three winners in the bag, in week 47, which took his 2015-16 jumps season total on to the 54 winner mark. His most notable winner came with the Richard Johnson ridden, Capard King(5/2Jf), who took the 5 runner, Southwell Festive Fixtures Novices’ H’cap Chase(C3), over 24f, at Southwell, on November 17th last. Making his handicap chase debut, this, six-year-old gelded son of Beneficial and three-time hurdle winner, was given an opening handicap mark of 135, the same as his hurdles mark. Back from a summer break and looking fresh and well, Capard King, jumped off towards the inside just off the early leader and recent course winner, Shah Of Persia, who took the field along at a reasonable pace. From an early point in this race, it was clear that Capard King was attacking his fences with zest, and joining Shah Of Persia, he either lead or disputed the lead up until the 7th fence where his brilliant jumping took him into the lead outright. Loath to hold back his mount, Johnson, became more than positive and that combination provided us with a great spectacle as the field went out on their final circuit. Foot perfect at every fence, Capard King, was going to take a lot of catching, as he continued to make the crowd hold their breath. With the field stacked up behind him, Capard King, strode on some three lengths clear over the third and second last. With Seldom Inn coming from the clouds after some dodgy jumping, Johnson asked and again got a huge leap from Capard King over the last. Tiring somewhat after a long break, this Geoff Barker owned gelding, found plenty up the run-in to deny the staying on Seldom Inn by a neck. Recording his 4th win from 9 starts, Capard King, can go on to better things. His win brought back some great memories for this writer who led up his first ever winner in these same colours when Ambleside Harvest and Lorcan Wyer took a novice hurdle, at Carlisle, back in 1992. He beat a horse of Gordon Richards, Whispering Steel, who was lead up by a fellow Fermoy man, Danny ‘Jimmy’ Barry. Jonjo O’Neill, winning trainer, went on to say, “Capard King loves jumping fences and has done from day one. He was a bit fresh early on but settled into it. He jumped well and kept finding. That was a good performance.”
O’Neill went on to record another two winners and they were both on the same day, Saturday, November 17th. The first came with the Joshua Moore ridden, Allow Dallow(6/1), who took the 7 runner, 1st Security Solutions Novices’ H’cap Chase(C4), over 16.5f, at Huntingdon. Former Dromahane point-to-point winner, Allow Dallow, was another horse coming back from a summer break and making his chase debut. O’Neill’s final winner came with the Barry Geraghty ridden, Another Hero(9/2), who overcame a 584-day absence, to take the 6 runner, Bam Construct Novices’ H’cap Chase(C3), over 24f, at Ascot. Another Hero was also making his chase debut and has now won six races from just ten starts.

Full Marks For Grit To Bob

Freemount native and conditional jump jockey, Conor Ring, was back amongst the winners, aboard the Hugo Froud trained, Marky Bob(9/2), who scored in the 5 runner, Betfred Conditional Jockeys’ H’cap Chase(C4), over 16.5f, at Fakenham, on November 17th last. Back from a small break after a disappointing performance, at Fontwell, last time out, this, 10-year-old gelded son of Turtle Island, was bidding to hold on to his 100% course record, which stood at 2-2. Ring made his intentions clear from the start, jumping Marky Bob off in front and poaching a good five or six length lead on his rivals over the first two fences. Setting a solid looking pace and a bit sloppy over some of his fences, Marky Bob, settled into a good gallop as the field closed up behind him going over the last on the first circuit. Going out into the country for the final time, and Marky Bob had company, when joined and hassled by All But Grey going down over the 8th of 12 fences. Losing the lead, Ring, now had to stoke up his mount to keep tabs on the new leader and responding gamely, Marky Bob, was soon back upsides All But Grey going down to the second last. A great jump two out saw Marky Bob back in front on landing and he looked to have All But Grey covered only for another grey, Youm Jamil, to come alongside him travelling nicely. Jumping the last with both horses in unison, Marky Bob, dug deep, and finding plenty for pressure, he put away Youm Jamil up the short run-in, going on to win in the end by one and a quarter lengths. With both horse and trainer keeping their 100% Fakenham records intact, it will be interesting to see if Marky Bob will be turned out quickly again, considering he could run without a penalty in a normal handicap. Conor Ring, winning jockey, went on to say, “Marky Bob is as tough as nails. He was flat to the boards but stays well. The further the better and it’s a perfect track for him.” Speaking to The Avondhu, Ring said, “He was very tough and really had to battle from a long way out.”

Snow Comes From The Clouds To Deny Stablemate

Fermoy native and trainer, David O’Meara, reached the 120 winner mark for 2015, with the Danny Tudhope ridden, Snow Cloud(11/4f), who went on to take the 9 runner, Unibet H’cap(C4), over 5f, at Lingfield Park, on November 21st last. Following up on last week’s Southwell win, this three-year-old Kodiac filly, was defying a penalty, winning here off an all-time high mark of 86. Well away from an outside draw, Snow Cloud, had little option but to drop in, as it soon became apparent that this bended sprint was going to be cut-throat from start to finish. With a three-way go for the lead, headed by the Liam Keniry ridden, Desert Strike, followed close-up by both Pearl Noir and another O’Meara inmate, Jebediah Shine, Tudhope was sighted in about 7th position, slightly run off his feet, as the leaders went hard in front. Passing the halfway point and caught a little wide of runners, Snow Cloud, keep tabs on the pace and was soon taking closer order when ridden into the final bend just over two furlongs out. As the leaders straightened up for home, Snow Cloud came widest of all, as Mossgo and Kieren Fox, shot into the lead up the inside. Ridden strongly and coming with a storming late rattle, Snow Cloud, came from the clouds to mow down both Mossgo and her stable-companion, Jebediah Shine, nearing the finishing line. Going on to win readily, this Middleham Park Racing owned filly, had half a length to spare over Jebediah Shine, it was a further neck back to Mossgo, in third. A one-two for O’Meara, with Snow Cloud taking the spoils and thriving at the moment. She will now have to try and complete her hat-trick at a higher level. She holds no short-term entries and still has that sales entry on December 2nd next. Danny Tudhope, winning rider, went on to say, “Snow Cloud can be a bit quirky and didn’t handle the bend very well. She is a hold-up filly and won well in the end.”

Wakame Makes All Under No Nonsense Keniry

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, recorded his 52nd winner of 2015, aboard the Ed De Giles trained, Wakame(13/2), who took the 13 runner, 32Red Nursery H’cap(C6)over 7f, at Kempton Park, on November 18th last. Coming here off last week’s solid looking course third, this, two-year-old Kodiac colt, was dropped back down to 7f, with a prime stall position, on the rail, in one. Well away early and stoked up to take the outright lead, Wakame, looked to hold all the aces as Keniry sat about getting his fractions right. No better man from the front, Keniry, sat quiet and waited for the first breath of a challenge, which came well off the home turn in the shape of the dangerous looking, Arctic Flower. Hitting the two pole and Wakame had a race on his hands but ridden strongly he began to respond more to his jockey and staying on gamely, this Simon Treacher owned colt, ran all the way to the line and had a bit of luck on his side as the luckless, Sunbaked, who had no joy in running, closed fast and late. Only a neck separated the first two, with a further three-quarters of a length back to race favourite, Nomadic, in third. Recording his first win, on this, his sixth start, Wakame, a 55,000gns yearling purchase, was winning here off a mark of 57 and shouldn’t be punished too much by the handicapper for this success. Liam Keniry, winning rider, went on to say, “Wakame was drawn wide last week and they didn’t go hard enough. He was better drawn tonight and I was able to make better use of him. He showed a good attitude and should be better next year.”

O’Leary Strikes Again With Keeper

Castlelyons native and Killaloe based trainer, Ronnie O Leary, registered yet another winner in the UK last week, this, following on from the previous weeks Carlisle winner, Three Ways, who subsequently went on to be sold for E270,000 at the Cheltenham sales. This time, O’Leary struck with the Andrew Tinkler ridden, Keeper Hill(5/4f), who went on to take the 10 runner, PHS Besafe National Hunt Flat race, over 16.5f, at Market Rasen, on November 19th last. Very well supported in the market, this, four-year-old gelded son of Westerner, had little trouble in dispatching this field, winning by some six lengths in the end. He will no doubt have a huge for sale sign on his back with O’Leary’s wife again down as the successful owner. A 31,000 Euro three-year-old, Keeper Hill, will make a fine recruit to jumping.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 434
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
24/11/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 46: Mon 9 Nov- Sun 15 Nov #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 46: Mon 9 Nov-Sun 15 Nov’15

A staggering 14 winners from 7 individuals to report on from Avondhu area locals, both based, and not based, in the UK. We had four winners from Jonjo O’Neill, three winners apiece from Brian Harding and Liam Keniry and one winner each from Martin Lane, David O’Meara, Johnny Burke and Ronnie O’Leary. Our combined 2015 winners total now stands at 431.

Let’s Be Havin’ More Of That

Castletownroche native and trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, reached the 50 winner mark for the 2015-16 jumps season with four winners last week. His most notable success came with the much-anticipated return of former Grade 1 World Hurdle winner, More Of That(15/8f), who went on to take the 7 runner, Steel Plate And Sections Novices’ Chase(C2), over 20.5f, at Cheltenham, on November 13th last. More Of That had a lot to live up to with this race steeped in history and producing such winners as, Denman, Imperial Commander, Grand Crus, Dynaste and O’Neill’s Taquin Du Seuil. Returning to the track after a near years absence, this seven-year-old gelded son of Beneficial, was making his chase debut and had to prove he was over the physical issues that ailed him last season. Striking off close up to the early leader, As De Mee, More Of That, jumped well and accurate as this race progressed and showed all his old zest. With As De Mee jumping right when hassled in front by Ballyalton and others making novice type errors, Geraghty, made his move at the top of the hill, going down to three out. Travelling well with the leader firmly in sight, More Of That, came to challenge As De Mee approaching the last. Spring-heeled and leading over the final fence, Geraghty had little concern, as he rode More Of That out to the line for an easy looking two and a half length success, from the long-time leader, As De Mee, back in second. Recording his 6th win from 7 starts, this J P McManus owned gelding, now looks on course to top the novice chaser staying ranks, with the RSA Chase, at Cheltenham, the obvious target. With all his reported ailments internal(wind/bursting), it is hoped that he can reach his full potential over fences. He next entry is in the Grade 1 Drinmore Novices’ Chase, at Fairyhouse, on November 29th next. Whether he runs there is open to debate. Jonjo O’Neill, winning trainer, went on to say, “More Of That is a lovely horse to deal with. He was a good horse over hurdles and hopefully he’ll be a better horse over fences. You have to have luck, obviously, but he’s a proper horse.”
O’Neill went on to record another three winners and they were in date order, Matorico(11/4), who took out the 11 runner, Racing Post Owners Novices’ Hurdle, over 16f, at Huntingdon, on November 10th, under Richard Johnson, Monbeg Gold(4/6f), who followed up his win over the same course and distance, eight days earlier, when taking the 6 runner, Veterans And Serving Military H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 23f, at Exeter, on November 11th, also under Johnson, and finally the Noel Fehily ridden, Compadre(5/4f), who scored on debut in the 7 runner, Treasure Beach Hotel National Hunt Flat Race(C6), over 16.5f, at Bangor, also on November11th.

Mattie’s Perseverance Pays Off Under In Form Harding

Castletownroche native and jockey, Brian Harding, kept up his good November run, with three more winners from the saddle in week 46. His most notable win came aboard the Nick Alexander trained, Another Mattie(9/1), who took the 12 runner, Racing UK H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 21.5f, at Ayr, on November 11th last. Dropping to an all-time low handicap hurdle mark of 104, this 8-year-old gelded son of Zagreb, was also upped in trip in his quest for that elusive first win under rules, on this, his 22nd attempt. In touch, towards the outside, as Solway Prince cut out an ordinary looking pace, Another Mattie, looked to travel better than ever before throughout this race. Finding himself going so well and aware that stamina would come to the fore, Harding made his move early at the end of the back straight. Challenging the long-time leader, Solway Prince, before the fourth last, he found himself in front over four out and with a few rivals trying their best to peg him back, this Quandt & Cochrane owned gelding, was to have his day. Ridden out after jumping the last, Another Mattie, strode clear up the run-in, going on to win by some ten lengths from race favourite, Tantamount, back in second place. It was a further one and a quarter lengths back to Cruchan, in third. Finally recording his first success since his debut point-to-point win back in 2012, Another Mattie, looks to have benefited from a real test of stamina in trying ground conditions. Nick Alexander, winning trainer, went on to say, “Another Mattie deserved that as he’s been second five times. It was nice to see him improve for the step up in trip.”
Harding went on to record another two winners, which included an Ayr double, on November 11th. The second leg of that near 110/1 double was brought up by the Iain Jardine trained, My Little Cracker(10/1), who scored in the 7 runner, Racing UK Mares National Hunt Flat Race(C6), over 16f. Harding’s final winner came earlier in the week, aboard the Nicky Richards trained, Baywing(1/1f), who won the 5 runner, 188Bet Novices’ H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 20f, at Carlisle, on November 9th. Harding now sits on the 19 winner mark for the season.

Keniry Charges Through 50 Winner Mark

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, easily moved through the half century barrier, with three winners, in week 46, taking his 2015 total on to the 51 winner mark. His most notable winner came aboard the Willie Musson trained, Candyman Can(8/1), who scored in the 14 runner, 32Red H’cap, over 11f, at Kempton Park, on November 11th last. Off the track for almost 8 months and having only his second start for Musson, this five-year-old gelded son of Holy Roman Emperor, was also dropped into class 6 company for the first time in over two years. Well away from an outside draw, Keniry soon had his mount settled well just off the early pacesetter, Alya’s Emperor, who only held the lead for the first furlong, as Time Square took over in front. Always noted travelling well in Keniry’s hands, Candyman Can, made his winning move well over two furlongs out as the field entered the top of the home straight. Challenging and heading Time Square, this Miss A. Jones owned gelding, galloped all over this field, and ridden out well inside the final furlong, he had little trouble asserting close home, going on to win by some two and a half lengths, from Thane Of Cawdor, back in second. It was a further one and a quarter lengths back to Baker, in third. Recording his second win from 16 starts, Candyman Can, last tasted success in a 12f Lingfield all-weather maiden back in January 2014. Also tried over hurdles and a visually imposing tank of a horse, he looks better on a synthetic surface than turf. Rated 65 here, he has scope to improve further and this has to go down as a good piece of training. Keniry was having his first ride for Musson in over 5 years and Candyman Can holds another race entry on November 18th, back at Kempton Park. Liam Keniry, winning jockey, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Candyman Can won well and could be very well handicapped. He’s a big strong horse and has improved for going to Willie’s. Hopefully, he can run up a sequence of wins.”
Keniry went on to ride another two winners, both for trainer Neil Mulholland, and they were in date order, Kristal Hart(5/1), who won the 8 runner, Chelmsford City Racecourse 50th Raceday H’cap(C6), over 10f, at Chelmsford, on November12th and Lions Charge(3/1Jf), who went on to take the 11 runner, Coral Classified Stakes(C6), over 9.5f, at Wolverhampton, on November 13th last.

Snow Cloud Consistency Gains Just Reward

Fermoy native and trainer, David O’Meara, registered his 119th winner of 2015 with the Danny Tudhope ridden, Snow Cloud(5/1), who took the 9 runner, Unibet H’cap(C4), over 5f, at Southwell, on November 12th last. Making her fibresand debut and second all-weather start in total, this three-year-old Kodiac filly, was unlucky last time out at Nottingham not to finish closer than third behind Rita’s Boy. Well away, in this straight five-furlong race, Snow Cloud, was dropped into mid-division, as three horses, Samhain, Red Stripes and Borough Boy, cut out a hectic looking pace. With the leaders trying to quicken the gallop passing the three-furlong marker, Tudhope found himself slightly outpaced but soon back on the bridle come the two-furlong mark. Asked to quicken and come alongside the leaders just outside the one and a half pole, Snow Cloud, picked up nicely and hitting the front just outside the furlong marker, she stretched out nicely in conditions, going onto to win with little fuss, by one and three-quarter lengths, from Red Stripes back in second. It was a further neck back to Sir Billy Wright, in third. Recording her third win from 18 starts, this Middleham Park owned filly, had placed in the first three no less than 12 times. Rewarded for her consistency, she was winning here off a mark of 80, some 5lb higher than her last highest winning mark of 75. She also has a solid run on the Tapeta surface, at Wolverhampton, and could well be kept going through the winter. Snow Cloud also holds a sales entry, on December 2nd next, at Tattersalls.

Oliver Storms To Facile Win Under Lane

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, recorded another winner in the week gone by, aboard the David Dennis trained, Wink Oliver(5/1Cf), who went on to take the 11 runner, Totesport H’cap(C5), over 7f, at Chelmsford, on November 12th last. Making his third start, in two weeks, since been transferred to Dennis, this three-year-old gelded son of Winker Watson, came into this race off a solid fourth last time out, at Kempton. Mounted outside the paddock and with a disadvantaged draw wide in ten, Wink Oliver, didn’t help his cause early with a tardy start which left him last, off a solid pace, set by Putin. With the leaders going hard in front and always likely to suffer the consequences late on, Lane switched right towards the outside to make his final challenge a clear one down the home-straight. With a new leader in Exceeding Power taking over in front, and seemingly going well, Wink Oliver, was sighted coming with a devastating run widest of all and hitting the front just inside the final furlong, this P & L Partners owned gelding, powered home for an easy success by one length from Lady Lydia, back in second. It was a further three-quarters of a length back to Exceeding Power, in third. Recording his third win, all of which have now come over 7f, on an all-weather surface, Wink Oliver, looks to have put in a lifetime best performance here off an official handicap mark of 69. His highest winning mark in the past was 63 and for a 26 time raced three-year-old, he shows plenty of finishing kick. This race set-up nicely for him and he holds a further two entries on the 19th and 20th of November, at Lingfield and Wolverhampton respectively. Lane has built up a good working relationship with Dennis and their record now stands at 7 wins from 26 starts this season. Martin Lane, winning rider, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Wink Oliver had run two really good races since joining David and was entitled to go off favourite. He jumped awkwardly and slow but luckily they went hard in front and were coming back to me come the final bend. He did it comfortably in the end but like all horses at this level he isn’t guaranteed to repeat it the next day.” Lane was riding his 46th winner of the season.

O’Leary Strikes Gold With Three Ways

Castlelyons native and trainer, Ronnie O’Leary, is always a man to note when he sends a bumper horse across the Irish Sea, especially near a big sale and he duly struck gold again with the Dougie Costello ridden, Three Ways(7/4Jf), who went on to take the 7 runner, 188bet National Hunt Flat Race(C6), over 17f, at Carlisle, on Monday, November 9th. Winning easily, this four-year-old gelded son of Flemensfirth, subsequently went on to be sold at the Cheltenham sales, on Friday last, for a mammoth sum of £190,000 sterling or E269,000 Euro. Costing 26,000gns as a three-year-old and owned by O’Leary’s wife, Three Ways, was bought by agents, Tom Malone and Jamie Snowden for a client undisclosed. A nice touch by anyone’s standards.

Burke Raids Bangor With Freebee

Glengoura native and jump jockey, Johnny Burke, also crossed over to the UK for a winning ride aboard the Mark Fahey trained, Its’Afreebee(15/8f), won took the 9 runner, Broncroft Novices’ Hurdle(C4), over 16.5f, at Bangor, on November 11th last. Fahey based in Cloneygath, Co. Kildare, was sending out his first UK jumps winner after two successes on the flat. Heavily supported into favouritism, Its’Afreebee, a bumper winner in Ireland, made short work of his rivals on his hurdling debut, winning by 8 lengths.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 427
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
17/11/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 45: Mon 2 Nov- Sun 8 Nov #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 45: Mon 2 Nov-Sun 8 Nov 15

Another 9 winners to report on from six Avondhu area locals based in the UK, with Jonjo O’Neill, Brian Harding and Martin Lane all recording two winners each. Also, Maurice Linehan, Richie McLernon and David O’Meara all added one winner apiece to their respective totals. The mystery of Paddy Butler’s birthplace was also solved. Our combined 2015 winners total now stands at 417.

No Stopping Isaacstown Lad Under Harding

Castletownroche native and jump jockey, Brian Harding, added yet another brace of winners last week, which took his seasonal tally on to the 17 winner mark. His most notable winner came aboard the Nicky Richards trained, Isaacstown Lad(11/4f), who scored in the 7 runner, Graeme Todd & Friends H’cap Hurdle(C3), over 26f, at Kelso, on November 7th last. Returning from a summer break, this 8-year-old gelded son of Milan, was facing class 3 company for the first time, back up in trip, in what looked really testing ground conditions. Held up in last as the early pace was disputed between Neptune Equester and Night In Milan, Isaacstown Lad, soon settled effortlessly into stride while feeling the brunt of kickback which covered both him and his rider from head-to-toe in mud. With the pace sensible in conditions, Neptune Equester, soon held the lead outright passing the winning post the first of three times. Happy to bide his time as this race developed, Harding, waited till the final circuit to make his move. Travelling smoothly to the far side, Isaacstown Lad, slotted into third with Harding motionless in the saddle. Keen to track Neptune Equester into second, Harding pulled his mount out to challenge the game long-time leader before the second last. Leading over two out, Harding was still sitting there with a double handful and easing further clear between the final two hurdles, Isaacstown Lad, popped the last to forge clear up the testing Kelso run-in. Winning eased down and revelling in conditions, this M S Borders Racing Club owned gelding, had some 7 lengths to spare over Neptune Equester, back in second. Picking up where he left off in May this year, Isaacstown Lad, was recording his third win in a row. A rise of 22 pounds has seemingly had little effect on his chances and the way he won here suggests that another penalty will not stop him completing a four-timer. He holds another entry on November 11th, at Ayr, and may go in again if showing up. Nicky Richards, winning trainer, said, “Monsoon conditions suit Isaacstown Lad and he loved the ground. He also stays very well.”
Harding completed his brace of winners earlier in the week, aboard the Jim Goldie trained, Sir Chauvelin(6/1), who scored on his hurdling debut, in the 9 runner, Border Safeguard Juvenile 3-year-old Hurdle(C4), over 15.5f, at Musselburgh, on November 6th last.

Oceanographer Washes Away Opposition Under Lane

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, recorded yet another two winners in week 45, which took his 2015 winning rides total on to the 45 winner mark. His most notable win came aboard the Charlie Appleby trained, Oceanographer(2/1), who went on to take the 5 runner, Tote H’cap(C4), over 10f, at Chelmsford, on November 5th last. Returning to the track after a seven-month lay-off, and gelded since disappointing on his handicap debut last April, this three-year-old son of Sea The Stars, also wore first-time cheekpieces, on this, his all-weather debut. Well away from the widest draw position, and keen early, off what looked a slow enough pace, set by both Sarsted and In Pursuit, Oceanographer, wasn’t helping matters by refusing to settle. Taking the bull by the horns, Lane, rushed his mount up around the outside of the leaders well over five furlongs out, and soon Oceanographer controlled this race from the front. Dictating his own pace, Lane, looked to have only race favourite, Sarsted, to worry about entering the top over the home-straight. Ridden strongly, Oceanographer, responded in bucket loads and striding clear of Sarsted, this Godolphin owned gelding, drew away for a scintillating win, eased down by some 8 lengths from Sarsted, back in second. Not the easiest to train, Oceanographer, could now make up into a nice staying prospect and this win looked 20lbs better than his maiden win as a two-year-old, at Pontefract. He could very well make-up into a black-type horse if staying mentally and physically sound.
Lane went on to ride another big priced winner later in the week aboard the Roger Ingram trained, Dukes Meadow(25/1), who scored in the 9 runner, Totepool H’cap(C4), over 8f, again at Chelmsford, on November 6th last. Recording his first win, on this, his fifth start, this four-year-old gelded son of Pastoral Pursuits, was another horse returning to the track after a huge lay off of almost 9 months. Lane is one of the few flat jockey’s you can follow off a cliff on the all-weather and still come out miles in front.

Monbeg Takes Gold On Handicap Debut

Castletownroche native and trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, added another two winners to his ever increasing seasonal total, which now stands at 46. His most notable winner came with the Richard Johnson ridden, Monbeg Gold(3/1Jf), who took out the 14 runner, Bathwick Tyres H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 23f, at Exeter, on November 3rd last. Making his handicap hurdling debut and second on his last two maiden hurdle starts, this five-year-old gelded son of Gold Well, was again upped in trip, in testing conditions with an opening handicap mark of 114. In murky conditions, it was hard at times to make out the runners but the early lead was a disputed one, between Friendly Society and CaptainofIndustry, who bowled along at a sensible pace early, as Johnson settled Monbeg Gold in third towards the outside. Passing the winning post with a circuit to go and CaptainofIndustry took a slight lead but was again quickly pressed by Friendly Society as the field headed towards the sixth flight. With Friendly Society looking less than happy in conditions and coming under pressure before the 7th flight, it was CaptainofIndustry who took the lead outright with Monbeg Gold stalking the lead. With the field now well strung out as the leaders entered the long home straight, none looked to be travelling as well as Monbeg Gold and Johnson. Joining CaptainofIndustry approaching the third last, Johnson eased his mount into the lead and steadily drew clear going over the second last. Running down the last, this Martin Broughton Racing Partners owned gelding, had over 8 lengths of clear daylight between himself and his nearest pursuers up the short run-in. Eased heavily close home, Monbeg Gold, had loads in hand, winning by an official margin of 5 lengths from Say My Name back in second, it was a further short-head back to Millanisi Bay in third. Recording his first success on the track, on this, his fourth start, this former Barry O’Neill ridden, Tallow point-to-point winner, looks to have benefited from a real test of stamina here and his rating of 114 belittles his ability. He should in time make-up into a nice staying chaser.
O’Neill went on to record another winner with the Richard Johnson ridden, See The Rock(9/2), who scored in the 8 runner, Winner.Co.Uk Maiden Hurdle(C4), over 18.5f, at Market Rasen, on November 5th last. Having only his second start for O’Neill since arriving from Markus Klug’s yard, in Germany, this five-year-old Shirocco gelding, just got home in a tight finish, winning by a short-head from Final Nudge and Aidan Coleman. See The Rock is also a four-time winner on the flat in Germany. Johnson keeps up his impressive strike-rate for O’Neill which now stands at 35% with 15 wins from 43 rides.

Maraakib Makes It Three Wins In Three Weeks

Fermoy native and trainer, David O’Meara, continues to keep his horses ticking over nicely and recorded his 118th winner of 2015 with the Josh Doyle ridden, Maraakib(4/1Jf), who took the 10 runner, Racing UK H’cap(C3), over 10f, at Redcar, on November 3rd last. Coming into this race off the back of a disappointing run, at Newmarket, only four days earlier, this three-year-old gelded son of Dark Angel, was trying to bounce back to form, in this, higher class race. Drawn one down the inside, Doyle, was quick to take advantage of the rail and well away, Maraakib, slowly edged his way to the front of proceedings after two furlongs. Always doing everything in his stride and controlling the pace to his liking, Maraakib, turned into the top of home-straight full of running as the field stacked up behind him. Ridden to go about his job well inside the three-furlong marker, this Evan Sutherland owned gelding, found plenty for pressure under Doyle. Heading inside the final furlong and looking lonely or idle in front, Maraakib, let the chasing pack sniff his tail and then took off again with 100yds to go. Staying on strongly, he repelled fellow joint-favourite, Empress Ali, by an easy looking one length come the line. It was a further neck back to Bahamian C, in third. Recording his third win inside three weeks, and kept busy by his opportunistic trainer, Maraakib, was winning here off an all time high handicap mark of 88 and with another six-pound penalty due, he could well find himself on the cusp of another rise to class 2 level if rated beyond 95. It may be worth stepping him up in trip again, to eke out more improvement, as life becomes harder from now on for a horse who has found some twenty pounds of improvement since joining O’Meara this summer.

Cato Produced To Perfection By Linehan

Fermoy native and conditional jump jockey, Maurice Linehan, was back in the winners circle, aboard the Ben Pauling trained, Itsnowcato(9/1), who went on to take the 13 runner, Attheraces Maiden Hurdle(C5), over 16f, at Plumpton, on November 2nd last. Having his first ever ride for Pauling, and thrown in at the deep end, aboard a hurdling debutant, Linehan, soon had his mount right upsides the early leader, Oulamayo, with the pair given a fair start of some six lengths by the rest of the chasing pack. With Oulamayo taking over in front on jumping the second flight, Itsnowcato, settled nicely into second place, as the rest of the field closed right up on the leaders. Jumping well in Linehan’s hands for a debutant, Itsnowcato, always travelled well and only for a slight mistake where he lost ground over the sixth, this four-year-old gelded son of Notnowcato, was soon reeling in the leader off the home turn. Coming upsides the tiring Oulamayo, Itsnowcato, strode into the lead approaching the second last with Baltic Storm looking the only real threat. Jumping the second last a length up, Linehan, got busy in the plate and pinging the last, his strength in the saddle was again seen at its most potent, as Itsnowcato stayed on strongly to repel the challenge of Baltic Storm, by some three lengths. It was a further 10 lengths back to Oulamayo, in third. A taking performance from all concerned considering this horse was off the track for over a year. A half brother to 142 rated hurdler Discoteca, he should go on to better things. Maurice Linehan, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Itsnowcato is a nice horse who travelled and jumped well. It was nice to get a winner for Ben Pauling who’s a good trainer on the way up.”

Ball Hopper Bounces To Easy Win Under McLernon

Liscarroll native and jump jockey, Richie McLernon, surpassed last season’s winning total of 20, by taking the 5 runner, Attheraces H’cap Chase(C5), over 19.5f, at Plumpton, aboard the Richenda Ford trained, Ball Hopper(9/2). Back from a near seven-month absence and on an all-time low handicap mark of 77, this 11-year-old gelded son of Rock Hopper, was soon settled into third place off a steady pace set firstly by Killabraher Cross and then by the keen going, Dancing Dik. Going the shortest way around, Ball Hopper, took everything in his stride, always travelling and jumping well in McLernon’s hands. With a full circuit complete, the pace lifted, as again Killabraher Cross jumped into the lead, as early pacesetter, Dancing Dik, faded tamely after the 10th of 14 fences. Switching his mount towards the centre to challenge, McLernon, came alongside Killabraher Cross soon after the third last and swooping around the outside off the home turn, this Mr & Mrs K. Snook owned gelding, strode clear approaching the second last. Two excellent jumps over the second last and last saw this race well and truly put to bed, as Ball Hopper went further and further clear up the short run-in. An eased down margin of 10 lengths was recorded back to the second, Killabraher Cross. Registering only his second win from just 17 rules start, Ball Hopper, is also a dual point-to-point winner and rising 12 years of age, it remains to be seen if he can exploit his low handicap mark. Richenda Ford, winning trainer, went on to say, “It took ages to get Ball Hopper handicapped after we won two point-to-points with him and my dad told me to get rid of him before the start of the season, but I knew he had another race in him. Richie said they weren’t going fast enough for him today.”

Great Reader Feedback

Thanks to reader Dave Daly, who informed me that the UK based trainer, Paddy Butler, was indeed born and raised in Ballyadeen, Castletownroche. If any other reader feels there are more Avondhu folk based in the UK and working professionally as a trainer or jockey please feel free to let me know. It’s very much appreciated.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 413
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
10/11/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 44: Mon 26 Oct- Sun 1 Nov #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 44: Mon 26 Oct-Sun 1 Nov 15

Another 6 winners to report on from Avondhu area locals based in the UK, with Brian Harding taking the riding honours with two winners, Martin Lane, Liam Keniry, Richie McLernon and Paddy Butler all adding a winner apiece. This takes our combined 2015 winners total on to 407.

Can any reader help with the location or birthplace of Paddy Butler, trainer, who is based in the UK. Martin Lane who rode a winner for him last week thinks he may be from the Avondhu area, Castletownroche possibly. I can be e-mailed at barryoneill2003@gmail.com

It’s Harry And Harding Once More

Castletownroche native and jump jockey, Brian Harding, registered another two winners in week 44, which took his early seasonal total onto the 14 winner mark. His most notable winner came aboard the Nicky Richards trained, One For Harry(12/1), who went on to take the 15 runner, Apollo Bets H’cap Hurdle(C2), over 20f, at Carlisle, on November 1st last. Bidding to follow up on last years win, in this very same race, this seven-year-old gelded son of Generous, looked to have it all to do off a mark of 129, some 8lb higher than last year. Jumping off to the fore and leading early over the first flight, One For Harry, was soon pressed and joined for the lead by Vendor, who eventually took over in front after jumping the second flight. With little change in the order going out on the final circuit, One For Harry, always travelled and jumped well until Out Sam came up his inside to steal second and push him back into third place. With the pace lifting going to four out, Harding got low in the saddle, as his mount got slightly outpaced before the turn into the home straight. Back on an even keel and looking threatening, One For Harry, reeled in the leaders over three out. Hitting the front between the second and third last, One For Harry, made a clumsy mistake over two out which saw Shotavodka take full advantage, joining and passing Harding’s mount over the last. With a never say die attitude, Harding got down to business and slowly but surely he got a huge response from his mount, who edged his way back into the lead close home. Going on to win by an official margin of half a length from Shotavodka, One For Harry, took this race for the second year running. It was a further 8 lengths back to Octagon in third. Recording his 5th win from 23 starts, all with Harding aboard, this Fife Boys Syndicate owned gelding, will now surpass his full brother, Dance Floor King, who at 130 was the highest rated jumper in this family. Nicky Richards, winning trainer, went on to say, “One For Harry was running a real race at Haydock in a grade 3 when he took a funny fall. I suppose we will go back there again at the end of the month.”
Harding went on to ride another winner earlier in the week for trainer Nicky Richards, this, aboard Imada(8/13f), who took the 8 runner, Racing UK EBF Novices’ Hurdle(C4), over 16f, at Ayr, on October 26th last. Making his seasonal reappearance and hurdling debut, this five-year-old gelded son of Arcadio, is highly regarded by connections and can go on to better things.

Estibdaad Shock For Avondhu Locals

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, added another big priced winner to his ever increasing haul, which now stands at 43, aboard fellow Avondhu native and trainer Paddy Butler’s, Estibdaad(33/1), who went on to take the 12 runner, Coral H’cap(C5), over 10f, at Lingfield Park, on October 29th last. Out of form, and coming into this race off the back of two disappointing runs when ridden by his owner, this five-year-old gelded son of Haatef, was back down to his last winning handicap mark of 67, on a track he had won on three times in the past. Drawn wide, in 11, Lane was well away and rousting his mount up around the outside of runners he soon led going into the first bend. Hoping to try and dictate the pace early, Lane’s plans were scuppered by the free going, Age Of Elegance, who shot up around his outside and took over the running right on the seven pole. Settled back into second, Estibdaad, soon found himself in third, up the inside, off a moderate pace and was soon ridden along by Lane fully three furlongs from home. Responding well to his jockey’s urgings, Estibdaad, came back on the bridle entering the final two furlongs, moving nicely into second and committing himself to an inside challenge on straightening up for home. Rallying well to throw down his challenge just outside the furlong pole, Estibdaad, eye-balled long time leader, Age Of Elegance, as both horses settled down for a battle royal as the winning post loomed large. All out, neither horse gave an inch, hitting the line in unison with little more than a hair’s breath between them. With the judge needed, it was Estibdaad who triumphed by the shortest of winning margins, a nose. Recording his 6th win in total from 37 starts, this Miss M. Bryant owned gelding, keeps his good Lingfield record intact, having now won there four times from just 12 starts. The stewards interviewed the winning trainer to explain the apparent improvement in form compared to his last run and Butler put forward the excuse that the horse had professional handling today compared to been amateur ridden on his last two starts. Butler, a brave man to give that excuse, considering the amateur rider in question is also the owner of the horse. Martin Lane, winning rider, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Estibdaad was in a race he really shouldn’t have been able to win. He took the lead one out in a steadily run contest and got the run up the rail. He showed a great attitude battling the way he did and just got up to win. He’s been a solid horse for Paddy the last 18 months and it’s always great to ride a winner for a fellow local.”

Mist Out On Her Own

Liscarroll native and jump jockey, Richie McLernon, continues to ride well and equalled last season’s winning total of 20, aboard the Emma Lavelle trained, Out Of The Mist(11/4f), who went on to score in the 14 runner, ATR Mares Maiden Hurdle(C5), over 16f, at Uttoxeter, on October 30th last. Making her hurdling debut, this six-year-old Flemensfirth mare, had shown huge early promise with two bumper wins last season, beating the Nicky Richards trained, Mardale, on both occasions, he himself, winning on hurdling debut, only three weeks ago. Heavily supported into favouritism, Out Of The Mist, was settled early into midfield by McLernon, as firstly, En Passe, and then Ninny Noodle, led over the first two flights of hurdles. With some ragged jumping by green runners in behind, it was best to steer clear down the inside of this field as the race developed. Passing the winning post and going out on their final circuit and it was still En Passe and Ninny Noodle who disputed the lead over the 5th flight, with Irondale Express joining in, making it three in a line approaching the 6th flight of hurdles. Three leaders became two, as Ninny Noodle cried enough and dropped away tamely, as the runners entered the final turn before making their way over the last three flights of hurdles. Travelling sweetly in McLernon’s hands, Out Of The Mist, looked to hold all the aces and jumping a flattened third last, she moved sweetly into a dispute for second, with Lady Of Lamanver, going just as well upsides. With Irondale Express now in front going to two out, it was Out Of The Mist who filled the eye and coming there strongly, she lead over the last with Lady Of Lamanver her only challenger. Ridden out up the short run-in, this Swanbridge Bloodstock Ltd owned mare, stayed on stoutly to repel a persistent Lady Of Lamanver by only half a length at the line. It was a further 12 lengths back to Irondale Express in third. Recording her third win from five starts, Out Of The Mist, can go on to better things in future having done very little wrong so far. Emma Lavelle, winning trainer, went on to say, “Out Of The Mist is a lovely mare who will want further in time as she comes from a staying family. I was delighted with the way she went about that on her hurdles debut.”

Spirit Saucy But Nice

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, brought up his 48th winner of 2015, aboard the Hughie Morrison trained, Saucy Spirit(9/2), who took the 8 runner, Scoop6Soccer Maiden Fillies’ Stakes(C5), over 6f, at Chelmsford, on October 29th last. Making her racecourse debut, this two-year-old Invincible Spirit filly, needed to bring her A game to be any way competitive, in this fair looking maiden. Slightly slow to stride, Keniry, soon had his mount in a prominent position to the outside of the early leader, Ulfah Dream. Caught four wide, Saucy Spirit, soon dropped onto the inside rail into third place, travelling nicely in Keniry’s hands. As the pace lifted entered the final turn, the leaders which included the red-hot favourite, Gale Song(4/7f), decided to come up the centre of the home straight leaving a huge gap up the inside for Saucy Spirit to exploit. Going better than any, Keniry, asked his mount to come alongside Ulfah Dream and Gale Song. Nursed into the lead just outside the one pole, Saucy Spirit, had this field well covered and ridden out she ran green, hanging right across her rivals, well inside the final furlong. Gathered up and corrected by Keniry, Saucy Spirit, strode effortlessly to the line with what looked plenty in hand. She went on to win by some one and a half lengths in the end from Gale Song back in second. It was a further three and a quarter lengths back to the early leader, Ulfah Dream, in third. A taking debut from this Ben & Martyn Arbib owned and bred filly, who already looks a black type horse for next season. Martyn Arbib’s colours were made famous in the past by Group 1 horses such as St Leger winner, Snurge and Irish St Leger winner, Strategic Choice. With the second rated 79, she will no doubt get crucified by the handicapper and could well rate in the mid-80’s. A half-sister to Listed placed Spicy Dal, her dam, Salsa Steps, is out of Irish Oaks winner Dance Design. Liam Keniry, winning rider, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Saucy Spirit won well and will improve a lot on that run as she was green. She should be a nice sprinter for next year.”

Mondialiste Does O’Meara Proud

Special mention to Fermoy native, David O’Meara, who’s first Breeders Cup runner, Mondialiste, did everyone proud by finishing second in the Mile race, on turf, under Danny Tudhope. Being by world champion sire, Galileo, he will now possibly take up stallion duties next year after securing a Grade 1 win and place on his last two starts.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 403
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
02/11/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 43: Mon 19 Oct- Sun 25 Oct #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

Week 43: Mon 19 Oct-Sun 25 Oct 15

Another 9 winners to report on from Avondhu area locals based in the UK, with Martin Lane, adding three winners, David O’Meara and Jonjo O’Neill taking two winners apiece and Liam Keniry and Brian Harding riding a winner each. This now takes our combined 2015 winners total to 402.

Four Up For Versatile Frenzified

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, continues in great form, riding three winners in week 43, which took his 2015 winning total onto 42. His most notable success came aboard the Luca Cumani trained, Frenzified(16/1), who went on to take the 12 runner, Wolverhampton Racecourse H’cap(C4), over 12f, at Wolverhampton, on October 23rd last. Dropped in grade and back on a more suitable surface, this three-year-old Yeats filly, found better company and softer ground conditions a bit of a burden on her last two starts and looked overpriced, having already scored three times this year. Drawn low to the inside, Frenzified, broke well to track the early leader, Black Shadow, who set a steady pace through the first half of this race. Making his move passing the five-furlong marker, Lane, moved on to the leaders girth, travelling easily to the half mile marker. With Black Shadow stoked up and coming under a ride fully three furlongs from home, Lane, sat quiet, stacking up the field behind him. Looking to have the run of the race and produced to challenge and hit the front off the home turn, Frenzified, quicken up nicely, putting daylight between herself and her nearest pursuer, Scurr Mist. Ridden out, this Stuart Stuckey owned and bred filly, galloped on strongly all the way to the line, going on to win by one length, from Scurr Mist, back in second. It was a further two and a half lengths back to Our Gabrial, in third. Recording her fourth win from 10 starts, Frenzified, has shown a liking for middle distances and fast underfoot conditions. She is now 3/3 when contesting class 4 handicaps and will need to improve again going forward. Not the biggest, she won here off a mark of 81 and holds a sales entry at Tattersalls, on December 2nd next. Lane was riding his second winner for Cumani from just three rides over the last five seasons. Martin Lane, winning rider, speaking to The Avondhu said, “Frenzified is a very quirky filly who tends not to go into the stalls. Thankfully I caught her on a good day and she was straight forward in the preliminaries, and even more so in the race. I was able to sit second off a slow pace and fill her up. It was always a matter of how far after that.”
Lane went on to ride two more winners and they were in date order, Demonstration(25/1), who took the 9 runner, Proludic Play Sports Maiden(C5), over 9.5f, at Wolverhampton, on October 20th, for trainer, James Toller, who retires in the next few weeks, and finally, the David Dennis trained, My Mo(8/1), who scored in the 8 runner, Toteswinger H’cap(C5), over 10f, at Chelmsford, on October 24th last.

Swing On The Up For O’Neill

Castletownroche native and trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, is another who has his horses ticking over nicely, and he took his seasonal tally onto the 44 winner mark, when registering another two winners last week. His most notable winner came with the Richard Johnson ridden, Upswing(9/2), who took the 7 runner, Richard Davis Memorial Novices’ H’cap Chase(C3), over 23f, at Worcester, on October 21st last. Back over this course and distance after finishing a remote second to Vintage Vinnie last time out, this seven-year-old gelded son of Beneficial, looked to strip fitter for this decent looking contest. Jumping off in rear, Johnson settled his mount into last place off a disputed lead, held by Relentless Dreamer and St. Johns Point. With the leaders happy to take each other on, Upswing, jumped well in rear, always going the shortest way around, biding his time as this race developed. With no marked increase in pace until entering the back straight for the final time, this field began to bunch up as Upswing and Johnson were quiet content to stay last but with the leaders firmly in their sights. Leaving the back straight and facing up to the final four fences and we had a clear leader, as Relentless Dreamer went on by a length from St. Johns Point and Skylander with Upswing moving nicely into fourth. With Skylander briefly hitting the front, it was St Johns Point who took over the lead outright approaching the second last as Johnson produced Upswing to challenge between the last two fences. With perfect timing, Upswing, landed over the last in front and ridden out, he steadily drew clear up the run-in, going on to win by some six lengths from a staying on Relentless Dreamer, back in second place. Recording his first chase win, on this, his third chase start, this J.P. McManus owned gelding, has now won off a handicap mark of 128 over both hurdles and fences. This looked a lifetime best performance in the 140 bracket, which already shows Upswing to be a better chaser than hurdler. He can go onto better things and seems to thrive around galloping tracks with some ease in the going. Jonjo O’Neill, winning trainer, said, “Upswing probably bumped into a nice horse at the course last time and he was entitled to win on that form. The rain they’ve had has helped as he prefers a bit of cut in the ground.”
O’Neill went on to record another winner, who was a dead-heater, with the Patrick Cowley ridden, Optimistic Bias(15/8f), who shared the spoils with the Philip Hobbs trained, Sykes, in the 8 runner, Liverpool Horse Show Conditional Jockeys’ H’cap Hurdle(C3), over 24.5f, at Aintree, on October 25th last.

King Torus Win May Hold Off Sales Date

Fermoy native and trainer, David O’Meara, took his 2015 winning total on to the 117 winner mark, by adding a further two winners, the most notable of which involved the Danny Tudhope ridden, King Torus(11/1), who dead-heated in the 9 runner, Wolverhampton H’cap(C4), over 8.5f, at Wolverhampton, on October 20th last. Well beaten in a class 5 Seller last time out, and with visor reapplied, this seven-year-old gelded son of Oratorio, looked to find that winning thread again back on an all-weather surface. Well away and leading briefly, King Torus, was soon headed by race favourite, Jodies Jem, who took the field along at a steady pace early. Settled well in second to the outside of the leader, King Torus, moved menacingly alongside Jodies Jem passing the three pole with Tudhope committing his mount to challenge entering the top of the home straight. Brought towards the centre to stake his claim, King Torus, hit the front fully one and a half furlongs out and looked to put this race to bed. Not finding a great deal in front, King Torus, again found himself joined by Jodies Gem well inside the final furlong. Head to head they duelled for the last 100yds, passing the line in unison with nothing but dust between them. After a prolonged photo finish, the judge couldn’t separate the two and a dead-heat was called. It was a further neck back to Obsidian, in third. Recording his 12th win from 47 starts, this Spirit Thoroughbred Racing owned gelding, has come a long way down the ladder since winning two Group 2 events as a two-year-old when trained by Richard Hannon Snr. He is one of the few horses that O’Meara hasn’t got the best from and this was only his second win for the team, the other been a class 5 claimer. King Torus holds a sales date this week at Tattersalls and will no doubt find a new home. Rated 114 in his pomp, he was winning here off a mark of 81 but still can boast a near 25% winning strike rate.
O’Meara’s second winner came with the Mr Simon Walker ridden, Maraakib(15/8f), who followed up his recent Leicester win by taking the 15 runner, Betdaq Amateur Riders’ H’cap(C5), over 10.5f, at Doncaster, on October 23rd last.

Gold’s Future Looks Bright

Castletownroche native and jump jockey, Brian Harding, rode his 12th winner of the season, aboard the Nicky Richards trained, Gold Futures(15/8f), who went on to take the 7 runner, EDF-ER H’cap Chase(C3), over 26f, at Kelso, on October 24th last. Dropped back into class 3 company, after two Listed chase runs, this six-year-old gelded son of Gold Well, had a tall task with top-weight, an increase in trip and his usual hood removed. Settled in rear, as is often the case, Gold Futures, jumped exuberantly, taking a clear strong hold of the bit, as the early good pace was set by Chicago Outfit. With little or no change in the order after the first circuit, the pace lifted going out on the final circuit with the field bunching up as Harding, and Gold Futures began to take closer order into fourth position. Looking to always travel well, Gold Futures, made stealthy headway onto the heels of the new leader, Sraidnahanna, entering the top of the home straight. Coming there easily and challenging his main market rival between the last two fences, Gold Futures, took control of this race approaching the last. Landing in front over the last, Harding settled down to ride a finish and not finding as much as expected, Gold Futures, stayed on well to repel the rallying, Sraidnahanna, close home, by one length. Recording his 7th win from 18 starts, this Mrs C. Torkington owned gelding, did well to defy top-weight and looks to have improved more for the stepping up in trip. He will no doubt be punished severely by the handicapper for this win with the first two coming well clear. Winning here off a mark of 138, he has taken well to chasing, on this, only his third chase start. Gold Futures is now 4/4 in class 3 company and 2/3 around Kelso. He still looks unexposed over marathon trips and could be anything under the right conditions. Nicky Richards, winning trainer, said, “Gold Futures is a grand horse who wants good ground. That might be his last run for a while, and I’ll bring him back for the spring. He might be an Irish or Scottish National horse.”

Tango Dances Circles Around Rivals

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, draws ever closer to a half century of winners in 2015, as he rode his 47th winner aboard the Hughie Morrison trained, Last Tango Inparis(4/1), who took the 12 runner, Al Basti Equiworld Maiden Fillies’ Stakes(C4), over 8f, at Newbury, on October 24th last. Returning to the track after a very promising debut run, when third last time out over 9f, at Goodwood, this two-year-old Aqlaam filly, was well supported in the market, in what looked a fairly competitive contest for the grade. Well away and to the fore early, Last Tango Inparis, tracked the early pacesetter, Bay Of St Malo, showing good pace in testing ground conditions. Always travelling sweetly in Keniry’s hands, Last Tango Inparis, was produced to go upsides the leader and challenge for the lead well over two furlongs out. With her momentum taking her there easily, this Helena Springfield Ltd. owned filly, strode clear of her field and looked well in command, if green, well inside the final furlong. Driven out and moving off a straight line, Last Tango Inparis, was much too good and galloped on resolutely all the way to the line. She has one and three-quarter lengths to spare over High Hopes back in second, with the Martin Lane ridden, Alyssa, a further four and a half lengths back in third. An impressive performance from Last Tango Inparis sees her as a bright prospect going forward into next season. A half-sister to stablemate and three-time winner, Sleep Easy, she doesn’t look over big and will surely look to take advantage of that over-abundant stamina in her pedigree. She will be possibly put away now till next season. Liam Keniry, winning jockey, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Last Tango Inparis is a nice filly who will stay a mile and a half next year. She loves this soft ground.”

First Breeders Cup Runner For O’Meara

Best of luck to Fermoy native, David O’Meara, who saddles his first Breeders Cup runner with Mondialiste, who lines up in the Mile race on turf, at Keeneland, this Saturday, at 7.30. This race should be shown on attheraces.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 398
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
27/10/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com

Week 42: Mon 12 Oct- Sun 18 Oct #50shadesofneighhh for @TheAvondhu Press, Fermoy, Cork

50shadesofneighhh
@racehorsesrace1

Week 42: Mon 12 Oct-Sun 18 Oct 15

Another 9 winners from six individuals to report on from Avondhu area locals based in the UK, with Jonjo O’Neill again training 3 winners, David O’Meara adding two and Liam Keniry, Martin Lane, Ed Vaughan and Shane Quinlan recording a winner apiece. This now takes our combined 2015 winners total onto 393.

A Little Magic Explodes Onto Scene For O’Neill

Castletownroche native and trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, continues to keep his string in top form, again recording three winners in the week gone by, taking his seasonal total onto the 42 winner mark. His most notable winner came with the Richard Johnson ridden, A Little Magic(1/3f), who scored in the 5 runner, EBF Stallions Novices’ Hurdle(C4), over 16f, at Uttoxeter, on October 15th last. Coming here off the back of a solid performance when second to subsequent Grade 2 Persian War Hurdle winner, Roadie Joe, last time out, this four year old gelded son of Kayf Tara, looked to have little to do on paper, in a race which had no real depth. Held up last by Johnson, as Aliandy went into a clear lead early, A Little Magic, again showed a big tenacity to pull hard and not settle. Tanking his way through runners, there was little Johnson could do but let his mount stride into the lead in the hope that he would settle better in front. And so it was that A Little Magic took over at the head of affairs before jumping the second flight of hurdles. Dropping the bit more in front and giving Johnson some control, A Little Magic, jumped in and out and was somewhat clumsy at his hurdles as the field exited the back straight for the last time. Galloping on relentlessly he approached three out with the field well strung out and although clumsy again over that flight he strode clear entering the top of the home straight. Popping the second last well enough and with the race well and truly in the bag, A Little Magic, saved his best jump till the last and strode on to the winning line in splendid isolation, some 9 lengths clear of Aliandy. Recording his first win, this J. P. McManus owned gelding, looks to have plenty to learn going forward. The talent is there if a lid can be put on it and he may well need a big field to settle him down. Former top class O’Neill inmates, Albertas Run and Refinement were winners of this same event. Jonjo O’Neill, winning trainer, said, “A Little Magic is going the right way but still has a bit to learn. We will try and find a similar race for him.”
O’Neill went on to register another two winners and they were in date order, Presence Felt(11/4f), who took the 14 runner, 32Red H’cap Hurdle(C4), over 25f, at Huntingdon, under Richard Johnson, on October 13th and finally, Mustmeetalady(3/1), who scored in the 9 runner, Racing UK Novices’ Hurdle(C4), over 19.5f, at Wetherby, under Noel Fehily, on October 14th.

Maraakib Finally Finds His Level For O’Meara

Fermoy native and trainer, David O’Meara, is not often out of this column and he again recorded two winners in week 42, which took his 2015 total onto the 115 winner mark. His most notable winner came with the Danny Tudhope ridden, Maraakib(7/2Jf), who took the 11 runner, Stewards H’cap(C5 Div 1), over 10f, at Leicester, on October 13th last. Returning to the scene of his one and only win as a two year old, this three year old gelded son of Dark Angel, was also taking a significant rise in distance and a drop back into class 5 company. Drawn wide of runners in 10, Maraakib, was well away and soon tracked the leaders without much cover in fourth position. Always sighted going well in Tudhope’s hands, as King Of Paradise cut out the early fractions, Maraakib, made a bold move passing the half mile marker, challenging around runners and catching the leaders unawares hitting the three pole. Stamping his authority on this race and with little stamina doubts, Maraakib, hit the front fully two and a half furlongs from home, taking some two lengths out the field heading well inside the final furlong. With only one challenger coming from the pack, in the shape of Minstrel Lad,
Maraakib, looked to idle in front and the winning post couldn’t come quick enough. With ears pricked and strongly ridden, Maraakib, held on well enough in the end, although only a slow diminishing head separated him from Minstrel Lad. It was a huge margin of 8 lengths back to the third horse, Sakhalin Star. Recording his second win from 11 turf starts, off a mark of 75, this Evan Sutherland owned gelding, could be one to follow up. He holds two Doncaster entries on October 23rd next.
O’Meara’s second winner came with the Shelley Birkett ridden, Scrutiny(10/1), who scored in the 18 runner, Racing UK Day Pass H’cap(C5), over 7f, at Redcar, on October 16th last.

Arlecchino’s Leaps Into Winners Circle Under Keniry

Killeagh native and flat jockey, Liam Keniry, booted home his 46th winner of 2015, aboard the Mark Usher trained, Arlecchino’s Leap(5/1), who went onto take the 12 runner, Wolverhampton Racecourse H’cap(C5), over 7f, at Wolverhampton, on October 13th last. Coming into this race off the back of a near faultless track record of 1, 2, 2, this three year old gelded son of Kheleyf, was up 1lb for chasing home the well handicapped, David O’Meara trained, Ustinov, last time out, over course and distance. Well away and settled into 5th or 6th place off an even looking gallop set by Light Rose, Arlecchino’s Leap, tracked the right horse in Shamlam all the way around. Travelling best of all to the halfway point, Keniry, positioned his mount into a clear challenging position as the leader rounded the home turn off an ever increasing pace. Stalking the lead like a sniper, Keniry, swung slightly left to gain full momentum up the long home straight and reeled in both Light Rose and Shamlam, who had no answers, well inside the final furlong. Dropping Arlecchino’s Leap into the lead with just 50yds to go, Keniry, again was seen to great effect with another well judged ride, having just half a length to spare over Shamlam back in second, it was a further length back to Light Rose in third. Recording his third win from 20 lifetime starts, Arlecchino’s Leap’s, liking for Wolverhampton looks cemented now with two wins and two seconds from just four starts there. He improved his highest winning handicap mark by a huge 8lb, winning here off a mark of 75, having won off 67 in the past. Whether he can step up again in class remains to be seen. Liam Keniry, winning jockey, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Arlecchino’s Leap likes Wolverhampton. He did it nicely, sticking his head out and should pay his way around there this winter.”

Interconnection Dots Up For Vaughan

Rockmills native and trainer, Ed Vaughan, recorded his 15th winner of 2015, with the Richard Kingscote ridden, Interconnection(7/2f), who took the 10 runner, Stewards H’cap(C5 Div 2), over 10f, at Leicester, on October 13th last. Back from an almost 10 week break, and with cheekpieces reapplied, this four year old gelded son of Mount Nelson, was also down in grade, into class 5 company for the first time since winning in the same grade back in May, at Sandown. Carrying topweight and back on a more suitable testing track, Interconnection, broke well from a wide draw in eight, dropping right in on the heels of the leader, Hickster, early doors. Always in the perfect stalking position in second, Kingscote, sat motionless most of the way around until making his move after passing the four furlong pole. Coming upsides Hickster with fully three furlongs to run, Interconnection, sauntered into the lead in effortless fashion with all rivals looking held as the stiff uphill finish loomed. Asked to go about his job one and a half furlongs out, Interconnection, had all the answers, purposely drawing clear of his main pursuers well inside the final furlong. Routing this field, this Salem Rashid owned gelding, was heavily eased close home for an emphatic three and three quarter length win, from East Coast Lady back in second. It was a further one and a quarter lengths back to Favorite Girl in third. Recording his third win from 13 turf starts, off a rating of 75, Interconnection, improved his highest winning handicap mark by 3lb, having won off 72 in the past. He looks to go well fresh on stiff galloping tracks and could be one to follow up again off the back of another break. Ed Vaughan, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Interconnection goes well fresh and is better with a bit of cut. That will be it for the year. We will start him off early in the turf season next year.”

Hermarna A Big Improver Under Lane

Kilworth native and flat jockey, Martin Lane, rode his 39th winner of the season, aboard the Harry Dunlop trained, Hermarna(10/1), who went onto take the 9 runner, Bathwick Car Hire Maiden Stakes(C5 Div 2), over 7f, at Salisbury, on October 12th last. Returning to the track where she made her racecourse debut only two weeks earlier, this two year old Heliostatic filly, needed to find dramatic improvement on that 10th of 12 finish first time up. Supported in the market late on when backed in from 16/1 to 10/1, someone knew a lot more than us, as Hermarna broke better from the starting gate, settling well into midfield early, off an even enough gallop, set eventually by The Juggler. Passing the four pole and Lane looked busy, losing position up the inside, as his mount seemed to be shuffled back to second last. Brought right up the inside to challenge, Hermarna, began to respond and get the hang of things, as she came alongside the strong travelling, Liam Keniry ridden, Beauchamp Monark. Staying on best, Lane found himself in front just shy of the one pole and ridden out, Hermarna, suddenly shot clear of her field, well inside the final furlong. With little doubt about the outcome, this Mr & Mrs James Blyth Currie owned filly, had two and three quarter lengths to spare over The Juggler in second, it was a further neck back to Trust The Man in third. Recording her first win on only her second start, Hermarna, looks to be still learning and will no doubt make up into a nice three year old next season. Martin Lane, winning jockey, said, “Hermarna has a staying pedigree and is going to want further in time. I don’t know what the plans might be but she may well be put away for next year now.”
In other news, Lane, was again in Grade 1 action, in Canada, over the weekend, where he rode the David Simcock trained, Sheikhzayedroad, to finish third in the Canadian International, at Woodbine.

Tuscany A Maid’en’ No More Under Quinlan

Glanworth native and conditional jump jockey, Shane Quinlan, rode his first winner of the season, aboard the Neil Mulholland trained, Maid Of Tuscany(5/1), who took the 8 runner, Dereham Conditional Jockeys’ Selling H’cap Hurdle(C5), over 16f, at Fakenham, on October 16th last. Still a maiden over both codes of racing, this four year old daughter of Manduro, was dropped into selling company for the first time, after falling at the final hurdle, last time out, at Stratford. Settled into 5th position early, off a good gallop set firstly by Full Ov Beans and then the keen going, Nellie The Elegant, Maid Of Tuscany, looked to always travel and jump well in Quinlan’s hands. With the leader putting five or six lengths between herself and the field, this race was always going to be attritional with some horses run off their feet early. Taking closer order from 5th, straight into second place, Quinlan looked to have this field covered and it was only a matter of producing his mount at the right time. Closing right up on Nellie The Elegant over three out, Maid Of Tuscany, eye balled the leader for about five strides until finding herself back in second again going down to the second last. A good jump again at the second last saw Quinlan with a double handful upsides the leader and aware of race favourite, Nebula Storm, in his wing mirrors, he had little choice but to go for home turning into the home straight. Kicking on two to three lengths clear, Maid Of Tuscany, pinged the last like a fresh horse and duly put some four lengths between herself and Nebula Storm come the winning post. It was a further 8 lengths back to Nellie The Elegant in third. Recording her first win of any kind, on this, her 24th start, this Qdos Racing owned filly, also has a Fermoy connection, having come from Sean O’Sullivan’s, Corrin Stud, as a yearling. Shane Quinlan, winning jockey, speaking to The Avondhu, said, “Delighted for the owners as she was a 23 race maiden before this. The race panned out nicely and fell into her favour as she travelled and jumped well.” Quinlan has moved base and is now plying his trade from Neil Mulholland’s yard in Wiltshire.

UK Flat/Jumps 2015 = 389
Ireland = 1
France = 2
Canada = 1

Barry O Neill
20/10/2015
@racehorsesrace1(Twitter)
barryoneill2003@gmail.com