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"One
to jump 2003"
Horses to follow for the 2002/2003 National Hunt Season
by
.t.h.e. .r.o.o.k.
STEEPLECHASERS
- (FOUR-YEAR-OLDS AND UPWARDS)
( 256 )¯¯ ALCATRAZ :¬>-
br, g. Corrouge (U.S.A.) - Kisco
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Paul Webber
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Alcatraz is a five-year-old son of Corrouge who has only had one race thus far in his career, but it was a mighty impressive one, winning a maiden point-to-point at Loughbrickland in April by 10 lengths. He was subsequently bought at Doncaster sales. I'd be amazed if he didn't win under rules this season.
( 257 )¯¯ ALPHA BLUES :¬>-
ch, g. Acatenango (GER) - Alpha Belle (GER)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jim T R Dreaper in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Alpha Blues has always appealed as a potential. Jim Dreaper purchased this seven-year-old by Acatenango three years ago, having won two of his ten races in Germany, (He was placed in ten others). He failed to score in his first season over obstacles , however made no mistake two seasons ago winning twice at Fairyhouse, the most recent occasion was in April '01, when he beat Duchas Macnas by 15lenghs. He only made one appearance last term finishing second to Risk Accessor in the Chris Mohan Festival Novice Hurdle (gr. 3), however is ready for the new campaign and could be very interesting over fences this winter.
( 258 )¯¯ ANOTHER MOOSE :¬>-
b, g. Mister Lord (U.S.A.) - Moose
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Miss Emma C Lavelle
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Another Moose is a lovely big son of Mister Lord, who ran four times during the '00/1 National hunt season, winning one race; a 2m4f novice hurdle at Huntingdon, where he spread-eagled a big field, eventually beating Historg by 3
½lengths. He hasn't raced since finishing second to Right To Reply at Ascot in March '01, however he is reportedly back in training and should do well over the larger obstacles this winter.
( 259 )¯¯ APACHE WARRIOR :¬>-
ch, g. Commanche Run - Gold Fellina
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Tom R George
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Apache Warrior is a seven-year-old by Commanche Run, who two point-to-points last term in Ireland; at Dundrum in March and Dromohane in April. He has been sent to Tom George's yard and should be capable of finding a race over fences this winter.
( 260 )¯¯ BEN'S BRIDGE :¬>-
br, g. Vouchsafe - Strathdarn
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Mrs Sue Smith
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-One of the tasks I like to set myself each year is to pick out a horse(s) who have shown little or anything who may make it to the winner's enclosure by the end of the season. Arguably, the majority of horses in this list., being relatively unexposed maidens already fit that description, however I want to go much deeper and try and find something you wouldn't readily consider. I think this horse fits that bill. Ben's Bridge is appropriately named - he is huge and almost certainly would not have been physically ready to have done himself justice last term. He was given 3 outings last term and to be frank, showed virtually nothing, struggling to keep in contention on two occasions before being pulled up as well as attempting to demolish the second fence at Wetherby on his second start. His pilot had little chance on staying in the saddle. Why therefore pick him? I've picked him because basically I like the look of him. He has the scope to jump fences once he's mentally matured and I could not be more pleased that he has been sent to an establishment who'll improve his jumping technique significantly. In reality, a win is too much to ask for, however a couple of good showings will be more than satisfactory.
( 261 )¯¯ BONUS BRIDGE :¬>-
br, g. Executive Perk - Corivia
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>-Henry D Daly
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Bonus Bridge is a typical Henry Daly/Tim Forster (his mentor) purchase. When you look at him you immediately think of steeplechases and that's where you'd expect him to show his best level of form. Last season got off to the perfect start winning a novice hurdle at Hereford in October, however he struggled under a penalty afterwards (though he was placed on two of his last four starts).. He starts the season with a clean slate and reportedly over fences and I will disappointed if he doesn't improve for going over them.
( 262 )¯¯ CABALLO RAPTOR (CAN) :¬>
br, h. Quest For Fame (U.S.A.) - Viator (U.S.A.) -
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- François Doumen in France
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Caballo Raptor is due to make a return to the racecourse this term. he was the champion four-year-old hurdler in '00. and though he failed to trouble the judge in '01, showed promise behind Baracouda, and Le Sauvignon. there should still be more improvement to come and could get back to winning ways this season, if he fully recovered from those injuries.
( 263 )¯¯ CADOU ROYAL (FR):¬>-
b, g. Cadoudal (FR) - Leonie Des Champs (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Willie P Mullins in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Cadou Royal could do well this term. He ran six times last term winning once at Leopardstown in December and was placed on two other occasions. He disappointed twice in handicap company, most recently when finished a disappointing tenth to Kadon in the Powers Gold Label Championship European Breeders Fund Handicap Hurdle at Leopardstown at the end of March, however he'd probably had enough for the season by then. he should have strengthened up gain during the summer and should do well in novice chases
( 264 )¯¯ COMMANCHE WAR PAINT :¬>-
b, g. Commanche Run - Gale Shula
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Paul Nicholls
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Commanche War Paint was the impressive winner of a maiden point-to-point at Athlacca in April and was also placed 2nd and 3rd in two further starts. He was bought at Doncaster sales in May and has shown enough promised to be able to win under rules.
( 265 )¯¯ CONTRACT SCOTLAND :¬>-
br, g. Religiously (U.S.A.) - Stroked Again
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>-Lenny Lungo
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Contract Scotland is a typical son of Religiously, who tend to be very big slow maturing individuals. This seven-year-old has taken a long time to mature into his frame, however he began to show some promise midway through last term, and after finishing second Lord jack in a handicap hurdle at Musselburgh, finally got his head in front in an handicap hurdle at Edinburgh, where he just outlasted Dominikus, winning by
¾ length. Connections were quick to exploit this new vein of form, at the beginning of the new campaign and he picked up two more handicaps at Newcastle at the end of April as well as at Kelso at the end of May. he hasn't raced since however now he has started winning he can build on this form this term over the larger obstacles.
( 266 )¯¯ CYBORSUN (FR) :¬>-
ch, g. Cyborg (FR) - Kaprika (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Arthur Moore
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Cyborsun, a half brother to Geos, could make his presence felt over fences in Ireland this winter. Formerly trained in France by Marcel Rolland, Cyborsun won two of his seven starts, the Prix le Parisien (Prix Gaston Branere) (Hurdle) over hurdles at Auteuil in May '01, as well as the Prix Collins (Chase) , again at Auteuil this May. He was subsequently purchased by J. P Macmanus from GOFFS France's summer sale and now is with Arthur Moore, who will ensure that this useful prospect gets every chance to increase his tallies of wins this winter.
( 267 )¯¯ DARK ROOM :¬>-
b, g. Toulon - Maudlin Bridge
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jonjo O´Neill
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Dark Room is an exciting prospect. Formerly trained by Edna Bolger He won three point-to-points during the rearranged '01 season. He ran twice last term, finishing fourth in a winners of three races at the beginning of January, before unseating his rider in a hunter chase at the end of that month. He has since been transferred to Jonjo O'Neill and should win races once he's fully acclimatised himself... not sure which code he will be running over though
( 268 )¯¯ EBONY LIGHT :¬>-
br, g. Buckskin (FR) - Amelioras Daughter
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Ginger McCain
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Ebony Light is probably Ginger McCain's best chasing prospects this term. This brown son of Buckskin is built for chasing, however he showed last term in six starts that there was ability to go with it. He only won once, at Uttoxeter in March, but was placed on four other occasions... hopefully he'll have a similar record this term over the larger obstacles
( 269 )¯¯ EPERVIER D'OR (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Epervier Bleu - Magdor (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Paul F Nicholls
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-There was plenty of interest in this son of Epervier Bleu after his two runs in France. He won cosily at Enghien before going back for the Prix de Craon (Hurdle), where he beat all bar the smart Tempo d'Or, which was good form at the time. He was bought with a tilt at the Triumph in mind however he didn't come to himself and he was put away for the season. He has strengthened up considerably during the winner and connections are hinting that they have think he may be an Arkle possible .. He could be decent.
( 270 )¯¯ EUROTREK :¬>-
ch, g. Eurobus - Orient Jewel
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jonjo O'Neill
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Eurotrek, a six-year-old son of Eurobus joined present connections after winning a Ballybunion maiden point-to-point by 30lengths. After two outings in bumpers, Eurotrek obliged on his first effort over hurdles staying on strongly to beat First Flight. He was given one more start and arguably put him in his best effort even though he was soundly beaten by Classified in the Pertemps Leamington Novices' Hurdle (gr. 2). He does however have the profile of a chaser and I would expect him to find further improvement when tried over the larger obstacles this winter.
( 271 )¯¯ FIRST FLIGHT :¬>-
br, g. Neltino - The Beginning
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Kim Bailey
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-First Flight; a full brother to the highly promising pointer Itsgoneoff (who I have no doubt would have made it to the top bar injury) had a promising first season under rules running fives times and finishing in the frame on the first four occasions. I thought his best effort was his penultimate start, in a
2-½mile Novice Hurdle at Kempton at the beginning of February. On that occasion, First Flight travelled sweetly throughout and seemed to have thing under control two out, however he dived at the last, losing crucial momentum, and was gradually reeled in by the winner Hard to Start. He can only get better and should finally get his head in front this winter.
( 272 )¯¯ FIRST LOVE :¬>-
br, g. Bustino - First Romance
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Nicky Henderson
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- First Love is going to be a lovely chaser in a few seasons time however he should provide the Queen with plenty of fun this term. He only ran four times however he won twice with his head in his chest at Sandown (twice) in December as well as under a penalty in March, as well as running well in defeat behind Hitman and Another Chance. He has plenty of scope and should take well to the larger obstacles .. It'll be a major surprise if he doesn't win over fences this winter.
( 273 )¯¯ FOTA ISLAND :¬>-
b, g. Supreme Leader - Mary Kate Finn
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Mouse Morris in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Fota Island has to be one of Mouse Morris' best prospects for this season. He is unbeaten so far, having won both of his bumpers last term at Navan in March, and under a penalty at Cork at the end of April. I'd be disappointed if he didn't do well over hurdles this winter.
( 274 )¯¯ FRETEVAL (FR):¬>-
b, g. Valanjou (FR) - La Beaumont (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Mark Bradstock
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-formerly trained by E Chevalier Du Fau in France, Freteval has had ten starts over obstacles finishing twice in the frame; at Pau, and also in the Prix de Ouistreham (chase) at Auteuil in June '00. This five-year-old has several options open to him, and I'd like to think he could find a race this season.
( 275 )¯¯ GANGSTERS R US :¬>-
br, g. Treasure Hunter - Our Mare Mick
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Alan Parker
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Gangsters R Us, a real old fashion chasing type, has caught my attention on his previous starts, and deserves to be added to this list, having justified my faith in him, when staying on to be third to Monkerhostin at the rewarding odds of 100/1 at Sedgefield earlier this week. Though not as good as the winner, he showed plenty of resolve up the home straight, and gave every indication that he will appreciate further. Will get better as he matures.
( 276 )¯¯ GIMMICK (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Chamberlin (FR) - Jaida (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jonjo O'Neill
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Gimmick was a promising novice hurdler during the '00/1 national season, when trained by Venetia Williams. He won three times; at Worcester in June '00, before carrying penalties to success twice at Market Rasen. He hasn't raced since, however he has now moved to Jonjo O'Neill's yard. He should do well when put over fences this term.
( 277 )¯¯ GLUCOSE (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Double Bed (FR) - Sclos (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- François Doumen
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Glucose ran an encouraging race in the novice hurdle on Newbury's Tote Gold Trophy card. He travelled really smoothly throughout, and looked menacing turning for home, however he weakened after two out eventually finishing in sixth. That's as good a performance as he's put up so far, and whilst he'll go onto better things back in France, he may be worth noting if he given an opportunity to race over here on better ground - which I believe he needs.
( 278 )¯¯ GOLA SUPREME:¬>-
gr, g. Supreme Leader - Coal Burn
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Alan King
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Gola Supreme is a promising sort. He won a point-to-point in Ireland before joining present connection. He ran twice for them, wining impressively on his debut at Ascot in November, before disappointing on his last start behind Classified in the Pertemps Leamington Novices' Hurdle (Gr. 2) at Warwick . He's been given time to get over that effort and should reward connection's patience over fences at some stage this winter.
( 279 )¯¯ HANSBURY:¬>-
gr, g. Roselier (FR) - Ramble Bramble
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Paul F Nicholls
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Full-brother to the smart staying chaser Seven Towers. Finished first and
second in his two Irish point-to-points, apparently showing a liking for soft ground. I'm very pleased with what I have seen of him, and he should do well in long-distance novice chases. Jeremy, my assistant, is a shrewd judge and says he'd win over hurdles if we wanted him to. Bought by Highflyers for 46,000 gns at Doncaster
( 280 )¯¯ HORSE PISTOL (FR)
b, g. Synefos (U.S.A.) - Uberaba (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jim T R Dreaper in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Horse Pistol is a lovely seven-year-old gelding by Synefos, who has have only had four runs, but has shown promise in each of them. He was unplaced but ran well in three bumpers in the '00/1 season. He then belied a year absence by running a cracker on his only start last term staying in contention until weakening after four out in a Navan novice hurdle in January. Chasing will bring out the best of him and he should be seen to best effect when he is eventually tried over them this winter.
( 281 )¯¯ IDEAL DU BOIS BEURY (FR) :¬>-
br, g. Useful (FR) - Pampa Star (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>-Martin C. Pipe
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Two poor efforts at the end of last season shouldn't be allowed to detract from a good first season for this six-year-old by Useful. Ideal Du Bois Beury joined Martin Pipe having shown good form in bumpers in France and won three times, on his debut at Newbury on Hennessy Gold Cup day where he survived a horrendous blunder at the last to beat Jaboune by
½length. After two defeats he won a handicap hurdle at Leicester under 12-0. By far his best effort was at Ascot in the William Hill Handicap Hurdle over 2miles-4f where he quickened decisively off of the final turn to beat Farmer Jack by 5lengths. He'd probably had enough by then and therefore his summer's break will have done him the world of good .. he should do well over fences.
( 282 )¯¯I GOT IT (FR) :¬>-
gr, g. Agent Bleu (FR) - Una Rosa (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Arthur L. T. Moore in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-I Got It has been in "One to Jump" now for the last three season. He's a lovely stamp of a horse. He was highly tried last term behind the likes of Like-A-Butterfly, Ballyhampshire Boy and Davenport Milenium.. not surprising only won the one race at Leopardstown in March... He's an embryonic chasing and should do well in that sphere
( 283 )¯¯ IMAGO II (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Chamberlin (FR) - Pensee D'Amour (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jonjo O´Neill
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Imago hasn't as yet fulfilled the promise expected of him by former trainer Ferdy Murphy after winning on his debut in a Haydock bumper. He ran well there on his debut over hurdles in November, finishing third to The Villager, however didn't build on that effort in two subsequent runs. Like so many horses in this list he should improve as he matures so I wouldn't be in the least bit surprised if he didn't improve markedly this season on previous efforts.
( 284 )¯¯ IVERAIN (FR):¬>-
b, g. Le Riverain (FR) - Ursala (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Paul F Nicholls
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Iverain had a good season last term, having shown good form in his native france behind the likes of Ilare. He looked good when winning at Wincanton last November and Chepstow in February but ran no sort of race behind Gallileo in the Sun Alliance Hurdle. He's already run over fences in france so I'd be confident of him adapting over here... He's the sort of horse that could develop into a Sun Alliance candidate later this season.
( 285 )¯¯ ISARD III (FR), :¬>-
gr, g. Royal Charter (FR) - Aurore D´Ex (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Martin C. Pipe
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- People associate Nicholashayne with ready-to-run flat types or horses ready to run up a quick sequence. They do however forget how good this operation is at bringing on horses with potential. Isard III is a good case in point. I've kept tabs on this horse ever since he was brought at Doncaster sales over two-and-a-half years ago and connections have adopted a softly-softly approach that will undoubtedly pay dividends in the long run. This horse has had two runs so far in his career, dotting up in a Fontwell bumper at the end of the '00/'01 season. He was then put under David Pipe's care and was given one run last time in an Intermediate point-to-point at Wadebridge in February where he jumped well before quickening past Good Boy Fred to win cosily by four lengths. He is back with Martin Pipe and should continue his progression under rules.
( 286 )¯¯ ISIO (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Silver Rainbow - Swifty (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Nicky J Henderson
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Isio, bought by Highflyer Bloodstock for Nicky Henderson at last year's GOFFS France summer sale, had a good first season over obstacles. A winner of an AQPS (French non-thoroughbred) Flat race; Isio ran six times winning three of them; at Ludlow in February, Newbury in March and Ayr in April, as well as finishing second three times to Samon, In Contrast and Hitman. Isio 's had a good first season over hurdles and will be interesting this term, whether he goes handicap hurdling, or goes over fences.
( 287 )¯¯ JAKARI (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Apeldoorn (FR) - Tartifume II (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>-Henry D J Daly
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Jakari is a lightly raced five-year-old gelding by Apeldoorn, who has only had two starts, showing plenty of promise on his debut behind Beethoven in a bumper at Ascot in February '01. He made one appearance last term where he travelled sweetly throughout before quickening past Umbrella Man going to two out, eventually winning easily by 8 lengths. He hasn't raced since however that was probably because he needed time to grow into his frame. He should be good enough to win a race this term though I would expect that it is more likely to be over fences.
( 288 )¯¯ JAMEROSIER (FR), :¬>-
b, g. The Wonder (FR) - Teuphaine (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Mrs Lavinia C Taylor
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Jamerosier is a horse that I really liked last term. He was one of several horses that caught my eye in two bumpers held on Kempton's card at the end of February. Jamerosier looks on first impression to be a staying prospect, which probably explains why Henry Oliver made full use of him from the start. He became a bit of a sitting target turning for home, and you feared that he'd weaken rapidly through the field. To his credit, he stayed on nicely up the straight to finish within 10 lengths of the eventual winner Noble Baron. Connections put him straight over obstacles next and he ran in defeat behind Druid's Glen at Stratford over hurdles and Belisario over fences at Doncaster. Fortunately he is still a maiden and is a good bet to win a race this term (More likely over fences).
( 289 )¯¯ JANIDOU (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Cadoudal (FR) - Majathen (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Arthur L. T. Moore in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Janidou is a full brother to Majadou, who like his illustrious brother, should make an impact over fences. He wasn't a bad hurdler though and whilst he didn't win last term ran some good races in defeat, not least his third to Adamant Approach in the Pierse Hurdle (Grade A) at Leopardstown in January. He has a high cruising speed, which should serve his well over the larger obstacles this winter.
( 290 )¯¯ JAZZ D'ESTRUVAL (FR):¬>-
gr, g. Bayalidaan (FR) - Caro D'Estruval (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Nicky Richards
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- One of several purchases from GOFFS France '00 Summer sales littered amongst this list. He as only raced once in this country, belying odds of 20/1 when cruising home on his debut at Perth in April '01. He hasn't raced since, however when he returns this term, could do well on the northern circuit before embarking on a chasing career next term.
( 291 )¯¯ JEANNOT DE BEAUCHENE (FR) :¬>-
b, g. En Calcat (FR) - Chipie D'Angron (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Robert Alner
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Jeannot De Beauchene is a five-year-old gelding by En Calcat, who had shown a little promise in a couple of bumpers in the French Provinces, before being purchased by Robert Alner. He was sensibly given only three runs last term and was very impressive in winning on heavy ground at Folkestone in October and when defeating Ideal Du Bois Beury at Chepstow at the Welsh Grand National Meeting. He disappointed on his final start at Bangor, however I always thought he would appreciate an easy first season and I would expect him to improve again this season (definitely one to note for when he goes over fences)
( 292 )¯¯ JERICHO III (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Lute Antique (FR) - La Salamandre (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Ian Williams
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Jericho III is a really attractive five-year-old gelding by Lute Antique, who will now be in this feature for the third year running despite only having run four times. I seem to remember I noted he was purchased at GOFFS Sales two years ago though he didn't race, however he did make it to the track last term, winning twice at Wincanton on his debut in November as well as at Huntingdon in January. He probably ran hiss best race in defeat when finishing only 8lengths behind In Contrast at Cheltenham having only weakened after the final hurdle. Connections tried him over 3miles on his final start however didn't seem to get home, however he may simply have had enough for the season and it is probably over this trip where his immediate future lies (over hurdles)
( 293 )¯¯ JEUX OLYMPIQUES (FR) :¬>-
b, g Scooter Bleu - Banassa (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- François Doumen in France
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Jeux Olympiques is a lovely individual who should develop into a nice novice chaser. He ran really well over hurdles arguably his best effort was in the Prix de la Turbie (Hurdle) at Auteuil in March, in which he finished second to Japhet, (receiving 10lbs) with Jimmy Tennis and Royal Origny (winner over fences last term).. Connection will be given him every opportunity to gain experience this term without necessarily putting the gun to his head and he is very much one to note with next season in mind..
( 294 )¯¯ JINFUL DE GRAND VAL (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Useful (FR) - Marine
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Arthur L Moore
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Jinful De Grand Val showed plenty of promise between the flags in Ireland last term. This five-year-old gelding by Useful had the one start finishing second in an Athlacca maiden point-to-point in Ireland. Connections seem to be unsure which way to go with him as he has been entered in bumpers as well as steeplechases... Hurdles are most likely (in my humble opinion) and I'll be looking for some encouragement this winter
( 295 )¯¯ JUMPTY DUMPTY (FR) :¬>-
br, g. Chamberlin (FR) - Caryatide (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- John C Tuck
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Jumpty Dumpty is a five-year-old son of Chamberlin (a sire I really like) who had a varied campaigned last term running five times for Guillaume Macaire winning a cross country steeplechase at Le Pin-Au-Haras in October '01 before joining presnet connections. He didn't really show much during the end of last term, however was one of the first winners in this list when winning a novice handicap hurdle at Exeter in May. He is a long-term chasing prospect who should continue to flourish as the season progresses.
( 296 )¯¯ JUST SOOTY :¬>-
br, g. Be My Native (U.S.A.) - March Fly.
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Nicky Richards
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Just Sooty really caught my eye last term. This virtually black son of Be My Native ran a great race on his debut at Newcastle, under a very sympathetic ride. Just Sooty travelled well through the race on the outside of the field, and came them travelling best turning for home. He was only asked a question after the final flight, however he failed to pull out quite enough, to get back at the winner Joe DI Capo. He was noticeably weak in the market that day (14's from 8's) and therefore arguably connection clearly expected him to come on for the run... that didn't really happen. He fell over fences and then was disappointed, failing to fins anything when asked for an effort in two runs over hurdles. I believe he has a wind problem, which is a pity as he has the scope to do well over the larger obstacles .. He does carry an element of risk .. but the risk is worth taking.
( 297 )¯¯ KEEN LEADER :¬>-
b, g. Supreme Leader - Keen Gale
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jonjo O'Neill
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Keen Leader is a likeable big gelding by Supreme Leader who won a point-to-point in Ireland, before galloping his rivals in to the ground on his first run for Jonjo O'Neill when coming home 22 lengths clear in a heavy-ground bumper at Perth. Further successes followed at Uttoxeter, Leicester and Towcester, and he was in the process on running a cracker in the Royal & SunAlliance Novices' Hurdle (gr. 1), when falling at the second last .. some say he would have won however Galileo's hadn't been asked for an effort so that may be slightly premature... No matter, he is built to jump the larger obstacles and looks set for another good season.
( 298 )¯¯ KICK FOR TOUCH :¬>-
ch, g. Insan (U.S.A.) - Anns Run
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Henrietta C. Knight
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Kick For Touch is a horse I expect to live up to his trainer's high opinion of him despite an indifferent beginning last term. He came to this country having won an Irish point-to-point impressively and was expected to make a winning debut at Huntingdon in April. Unfortunately things didn't go to plan and he disappointed greatly weakening as on as pressure was applied to finish a well beaten fourth. He has had a race already this term again failing to show the level of promise shown between the flags when finishing a well beaten favourite at Stratford in May... this isn't his form and now that he has been given time to acclimatise, he may show his true worth this time around
( 299 )¯¯ KOCK DE LA VESVRE (FR) :¬>-
b, h. Sassanain (FR) - Csardas
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Alex L Hales
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Kock De La Vesvre attracted plenty of interest at Goff's sales in July. He has run eleven times so far, winning on the flat at Saint Malo at three and on his most recent start when winning the Prix Djarvis chase at Auteuil in May and has been placed over fences on four other occasions. His future lies over the larger obstacles, however new connections can take advantage of this experience over hurdles this winter (he is still a novice over fences so it's possible they may want to exploit this avenue this season).
( 300 )¯¯ LANCERO (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Epervier Bleu - Cohiba (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- J F C Maxwell in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Lancero could do well in staying handicaps this winter. This son of Epervier Bleu ran eight times last term winning once at Navan in February over 3miles - the first time he'd tried that trip. Before that win, he did seem to be a little short of pace, although he had gone close to winning over shorter distance. When stamina is placed at a premium, Lancero is unlikely to be found wanting, and he is worth bearing in mind for staying handicap hurdles this winter, when conditions are in his favour.
( 301 )¯¯ LEAGUES (NZ):¬>-
b, g. Kenfair (NZ) - Hidden Depths (NZ)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Lavinia Taylor
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Leagues; a huge gelding by Kenfair, will be much better for the summer break. He showed promised in his first two starts over hurdles at Haydock and Doncaster travelling particularly well throughout his races. He didn't finish any race (always weakening in the last half mile) and probably lack full condition. He appears to have enough speed to win over hurdles but should be noted once he goes over fences, particularly in handicap company
( 302 )¯¯ LE CHABLIS (FR) :¬>-
br, g. Sassanian (U.S.A.) - L'Aumance (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Thomas Trepenard
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Le Chablis is a four-year-old by Sassanian, who has had eleven starts, showing very little until being put over fences by connections and the end of April, when after showing promise on his debut at Enghien, won a conditions chase there decisively. Connections raised the bar and he delivered running a great race for such an inexperienced chaser when finishing fourth to Karly Flight in the Gras Savoye - Prix Ferdinand Dufaure (Chase) (Gr. 1). That was no fluke as he franked the form in the Prix la Perichole (Gr. 3), beating Kilefou D´Airy and Vie De Reine with a bit in hand. Connections are very ambitious and there is a possibility that he may race in this country this winter... He is definitely one to watch out for during the remainder of the season.
( 303 )¯¯ LE COUDRAY (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Phantom Breeze - Mos Lie (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Christy Roche in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Le Coudray is another horse, who is reputedly returning to the frame this winter. Its a while since we saw him, his last start was behind Limestone Lad at Navan in December 1999, however we know he was before that a very useful tool in his native France, and was also one of the best staying hurdlers of the 1999 season.... Is he a chaser though?... personally yes, he could be very useful .I am not put off by the absence either. He is relatively lightly raced, and arguably the year off, could have done him the world of good.. Hopefully this is confirmed this winter.
( 304 )¯¯ LE ROI MIGUEL (FR):¬>-
br, g. Point Of No Return (FR) - Loumir (U.S.A.)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Paul F Nicholls
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Le Roi Miguel is arguably the best four-year-old to go to chasing this. He joined Paul Nichols having run well against Grand Match and Wisborough (near the top of the tree in France). He made an impressive debut in the UK; striding well clear of his field at Newbury in November. He then beat all bar the ill-fated Miros in the Tolworth Hurdle in January. Sensibly connections rested him afterwards and he should repay that kindness over fences this winter.
( 305 )¯¯ MAGNUS (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Roakarad - Volcania (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Martin C. Pipe
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-I was annoyed by the press this horse got last term, though I do understand why Magnus; one of France's top hurdlers was purchased at last season's GOFFS France Autumn mixed sale, having been trained by Jacques Ortet to land seven races last year; progressing through the ranks to land Prix Carmarthen Haies (Gr. 3) at Auteuil by 5lnegths from Goudenko in October, before going on to take the Grand Prix d'Automne Haies (Gr. 1) at the beginning of December. Martin Pipe was particularly active at that sale and it was him who dug deepest paying a record for a national hunt horse in training when he went to 3.5 million francs (£339,476) for the five--year-old. He had one more race in France when confirming the Grand Prix d'Automne form when landing the Prix Leon Olry-Roederer Haies (Gr. 2) by 2
½ lengths From Fou Du Roy V. You'd think that we would be pleased to have a horse of his quality racing over here, however he was lambasted when failing to win at Newbury on his British debut . We now knew he bled, and worse was to come when he ran a lifeless race in the Coral Cup making very little show landing his trainer in trouble. He is such a good horse to overlook and I think its crazy to overlook him. He has the class to go right to the top of the ranks in novice chases... If they can cure his bleeding. At least I am aware of the risks I may be taking if I back him
( 306 )¯¯ MARCUS DU BERLAIS (FR) :¬>-
gr, g. Saint Preuil (FR) - Rosacotte (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Arthur Moore in Ireland
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Marcus du Berlais is going to be a lovely chaser in a couple of seasons. He didn't do too badly in his first season under rules winning his second at Tramore in January. Marcus du Berlais appeared to have been given plenty of weight for his handicap debut at Leopardstown over 2m6f next time out, but he ran a cracker, staying on strongly to finish second to Native Leisure, having made a lot of the running again having looked beaten at the second-last. Staying is going to be his forte and I won't be surprised to see him win a staying handicap over hurdles this winter.
( 307 )¯¯ MONTREAL (FR) :¬>-
br, g. Chamberlin (FR) - Massada (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>-Martin C. Pipe
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Montreal have always be held in high regards by connections and although he was bought from Guillame Macaire to go chasing two season ago, he has more than repaid that investment over hurdles. He was upped in tripped last season and seems to find a bit more improvement. He won twice at Ascot in November and Sandown in December '01 , however on both occasions he did seem to drop his bridle when getting in front, giving the strong impression that he doesn't like to be in front too long. I thought he ran his best race in the Pertemps Final (Handicap Hurdle) (Listed Race) at the Cheltenham Festival, where he looked to be a big danger off the home turn, but weakened after jumping the last to finish fourth to Freetown. It probably doesn't matter for now because he is still learning his craft, however I would hope that this is determined one way or another before it might yet cost him a decent prize.
( 308 )¯¯ NOMADIC :¬>-
gr, g. Kenmare (FR) - Legend Of Arabia
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Noël Meade
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Nomadic makes a welcome return to the course after finishing third to Colonel Yeager at Gowran Park in April '01. He was of course a decent hurdler in his youth and had one run over fences, where he was sent off a warm favourite at Fairyhouse at the end of January '01, where he made a bad mistake six out, before falling at the final fence, when apparently well held. If he retains his ability (and enthusiasm for chasing) I'm sure he can find winning opportunities.
( 309 )¯¯ OVER ANXIOUS :¬>-
ch, g. Over The River (FR) - Legal Statement
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jonjo O'Neill
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Over Anxious had a successful first season under rules. He landed a Maiden point-to-point at Lisgoold in January before being purchased by owner Paul Green. He was strongly supported to land his first race in this country at Newbury but had to give best to Another General. He was made favourite to wiun next time out again at Newbury, however he was probably feeling the effect of his debut and was beaten by Shosen. He is much better than that and it will be disappointing if he doesn't prove to be
good enough to win a race this term, over either code.
( 310 )¯¯ PALARSHAN (FR) :¬>-
br, g. Darshaan - Palavera (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>-Henry D Daly
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Palarshan has had a varied campaign so far. He won the Cena spolecnosti Moravoplast Pardubice over 2800 metre at Pardubice on his racecourse debut, and supplemented that win in the Cena prezidenta republiky dotovaná Mattoni (hurdle) at Velká Chuchle in September '01. He was ninth in the Budejovický Budvar St.Leger and was similarly placed in a listed race at Maison Lafitte, before winning a handicap in Mont De Marsan De Marsan this February. Henry Daly purchased him and gave him one start winning a novice hurdle at Cheltenham at the end of last season. He impressed that day and connections were keen to put him over fences and I can see him adding to these success this winter.
( 311 )¯¯ RASKO (FR) :¬>-
gr, g. Kadalko (FR) - Fagaras (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- François Doumen in France
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Formerly a decent juvenile hurdler in his youth, Rasko is back in training and can make up for lost time. After winning the Prix Finot on his debut over hurdles in September 1999, Rasko competed with credit in the best juvenile races of that season, culminating in an excellent third to Doumala and Grand Seigneur in the 1999 Prix Cambaceres (Grande Course de Haies) (Hurdle) (Gr. 1). He sustained an injury after finishing third to Gun 'N Roses in the Prix Amadou (Hurdle) (Gr. 2) in March '00, however has since left Bernard Secly's care and is now with François Doumen in France . He has been entered over both codes in france, however could be interesting if he is tried over fences in this country this term.
( 312 )¯¯ SAINT PAR (FR):¬>-
gr, g. Saint Preuil (FR) - Paris Or (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Paul F Nicholls
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Although I thought connections got rather greedy and went to the well once too often Saint Par ran well enough last time to put him back in the list this season. Having run well over fences in France, I thought he would win last term and though I had to wait a while he dully obliged; rattling up a quick hatrick at Chepstow, Uttoxeter and Ayr. He isn't the biggest horse to go steeplechasing, however the fact he's jumped around Auteuil gives me plenty of confidence. He can run up a sequence when the mud is flying.
( 313 )¯¯ SHOSEN :¬>-
br, g. Persian Mews - Lugnagullagh
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Alan King
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Shosen; a six-year-old gelding, by Persian Mews, was formally trained in Ireland but didn't race due to foot and mouth. He was given three runs over obstacles, finishing a fair third to Got One Too on his debut at Newbury in November, before putting up a similar effort when finishing fourth to Beethoven at Ascot in December. He was given one more start, at Newbury in March, when he stayed on too strongly for his rivals to win by 9lengths. If he stays sound 3mile novice chases look to be right up his street.
( 314 )¯¯ SIKI (FR) :¬>-
b, g. Chamberlin (FR) - Cerianthe (FR)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>-Guillaime Macaire
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- As I am fan of the sire Chamberlain, I have been keeping an eye of this five-year-old gelding ever since he was entered in a bumper at Folkestone at the beginning of the year. He didn't run that day and actually didn't begin his career until February when he won a hurdle at Cholet. He was immediately put over fences and has won on his second start at La-Roche-Posay in august. He is being brought along slowly by connections and should find further success on the French provincional circuit, and could be interesting (with regards to a campaign in Britain) in the second half of the season.
( 315 )¯¯ SKIPPERS CLEUCH :¬>-
b, g. Be My Native (U.S.A.) - Cloughoola Lady
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Lenny Lungo
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Skippers Cleuch, is one of several horses in this list , who is on the comeback trail after sustaining a serious injury. This eight-year-old son of Be My Native, won seven of his eight starts during the '00/1 season before getting running no sort of race in the Martell Sefton Novices' Hurdle (gr. 1) at Aintree, eventually being pulled up. He hasn't raced since due to a neck injury, however is back in training and goes novice chasing. If he has got over his injury .. and takes to fences .. he should be able to win a race.
( 316 )¯¯ SIOUX RAIDER :¬>-
b, g. Commanche Run - Deverell's Lady
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Lenny Lungo
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Sioux Raider is another horse on the comeback trial this term. This seven-year-old son of Commanche Run, had two runs during the '00/1 season winning on both occasion (at Newcastle) in a bumper when he beat Stormin' Nativ in November '00, as well as winning a maiden hurdle there a month later. Assuming he has fully recovered from his setbacks, I can see him winning races over fences this winter
( 317 )¯¯ SUDDEN SHOCK (GER) :¬>-
b, g. Motley (U.S.A.) - Santalina
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Jonjo O'Neill
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Sudden Shock could be an interesting novice chaser this term. He was a useful stayer/hurdler in Germany and Italy, winning six times. including winning the XLVI Corsa Siepi di Merano (Hurdle) in September '00, as well as finishing second in the Prix Juigne (gr. 3 Hurdle) at Auteuil in March '01. To be honest, he has been very disappointing in this country... until repaying my faith (with some cash!!!) when landing the Martell Handicap Hurdle (Listed Race) at the Grand National Meeting at odds of 33/1. He proved that effort wasn't a fluke when finishing only 2lengths behind It Takes Time in the Bet.Watch.Live Attheraces Hurdle at Sandown's end-of-season meeting, and is now due to go over the larger obstacles... hopefully further success will follow.
( 318 )¯¯ THALYS (GER) :¬>-
bl, g. Gold And Ivory (U.S.A.) - Tachira
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Ms Heather Dalton
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Thalys is an attractive (very attractive) son of Gold and Ivory, who won two of his four starts in Germany before being snapped up by John Hales. He only ran once for Heather Dalton last term, at Market Rasen in February when racing far too freely, eventually finishing tenth. He does look like a chaser and is more of a long-term proposition, hence his inclusion in this list.
( 319 )¯¯ THE LAIRD'S ENTRY :¬>-
b, g. King's Ride - Balancing Act
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Lenny Lungo
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-The Laird's Entry is a huge seven-year-old son of King's Ride, who had four runs last term winning once over hurdles at Catterick in January, and was on two other occasions. He is a embryonic chaser who won't be inconvenienced by a step up to three miles this term. though he may not be mature enough to fulfill his potential until later on during the season.
( 320 )¯¯ UNGARETTI (GER) :¬>-
b, g. Law Society (U.S.A.) - Urena (GER)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Ian Williams
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Ungaretti didn't do too badly last term. This scopey five-year-old son of Law Society, was purchased by Ian Williams from Germany, having won two of his nice starts at Hamburg and Köln. He struggled in his first season over hurdles failing to trouble the judge in two starts. He ran eight times last term and seemed to improve once he was stepped up in trip, and when connections tied his tongue down. He won at Warwick over 2m4f in February and was placed on four other occasions. He could improve again over 3miles and/or fences and should be capable of getting into the frame.
( 321 )¯¯ VRIN :¬>-
b, g. Mukaddamah (U.S.A.) - Traumerei (GER)
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Venetia Williams
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>-Vrin had a good season last term winning twice from eight starts, beating Gunther McBride at Newbury over 3miles-110yds, on his third start on the season at Newbury in January, as well as winning on heavy ground at Uttoxeter in March. He did appear to broke down on his last start at Aintree, which is a pity as he looked set to develop into a useful staying novice chaser this season... hopefully this injury will prevent this horse from winning this season.
( 322 )¯¯ WHATASHOCK :¬>-
b, g. Never So Bold - Lady Electric
¦ The Trainer ¦:¬>- Alan King
¦ c.o.m.m.e.n.t.s. ¦:¬>- Whatashock was one of the most exciting point-to-point 'debutantes' in Britain last year. He won four out of five starts at Barbury Castle, Milbourne St Andrew, Larkhill and Charlton Harthorne, and would have won the fifth if his pilot had paid more attention to the last. He has now joined Alan King and literally could be "anything".
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