Flat Season Finale At Newmarket

I must first offer my apologies for not being able to make it to Newmarket tomorrow myself. Unfortunately i am otherwise engaged. It does look a cracking card and i am sure that a fantastic day will be had by all. Now i will do my level best to point you in the direction of a few winners!

The first two Maiden races are best watched unless you 'know' something and i don't. Any strong market support should be noted because the stables will have a far better idea of where they stand than everybody else.

The 2.05 sees a strong field assemble for the Ben Marshall Stakes. I have a strong fancy for Ecliptic in this. He is a progressive 3yo and his only start this year was earlier this month in victory at Salisbury. The step up to a mile should not be a concern and he looks a horse of huge potential. The 6/4 with Coral should be taken because i think he's going to be an Evens or shorter shot on the day.

Next up is the Zetland Conditions Stakes over 1m2f. Rougemont and Repeater were separated by just a head over this trip at Leicester. But it can easily be argued that Repeater was unlucky in defeat. Mojave, from the in form Al Zarooni stable is another interesting contender after showing bug improvement when winning comfortably last time over a mile. He looks to have more scope for improvement than the other two mentioned and is fancied to take this to make it a double on the card for Dettori and Al Zarooni.

The 3.55 Montrose Fillies Stakes is one that will be watched with eagle eyes by many. In recent years it has thrown up top quality fillies such as Midday (4th), Ouija Board (3rd) and Blue Bunting, who won the race last year. Godolphin have another likely type in Tactfully who won in good style first time up at Nottingham from a subsequent winner. Also unbeaten in one race is Oojooba from the stable of Roger Varian. She won well at Haydock. But the pick is the well regarded Diala, trained by William Haggas. She was second on her debut to Group 1 Fillie's Mile winner Lyric Of Light and then won readily over 7 furlongs here. The step up to a mile should not inconvenience her and she is taken to make her mark for next year's Classics.

The final Listed contest is the Jane Seymour Stakes over 10f. Prince Khalid Abdulla holds a strong hand in this with Jet Away, Dux Scholar and Slumber all in his ownership. The pick of them is Jet Away who ran away with a Conditions event at York earlier in the month. He is clearly progressing and this can be another step in the right direction for him.

The Action At Ascot

Ascot also hosts a top quality jumps card tomorrow featuring the return of some very promising sorts for this season.

The 1.55 looks a little trappy so i'll leave that alone but the 2.30 looks a nice race. Takeroc was an impressive winner at Aintree last week and is clearly in good form. But a break of just a week is surely short enough and for that reason preference is for the progressive Baseball Ted. He comes from the Charlie Longsdon stable who have been in red hot form so far this season. He has the benefit of a spin at Carlisle, when a good second, and looks to be on the upgrade at 9 years old. This is a career high mark but with the fitness on his side and the stable in great form he is taken to land this. 6/1 looks a good bet with Boylesports.

Topolski heads the weights for the William Hill Handicap Hurdle. He is thought of as a Champion hurdle contender but he will need to be to be winning this off of 150. I am not convinced by his form which has a distinctly shaky look to it, despite a Grade 2 win at Aintree. If Third Intention learns to settle then he has a race such as this in him but i fancy Elsafeer to go close for Tim Vaughan and Richard Johnson. Available at 8/1, this tough consistent sort looks a good EW to take some notable scalps. Third Intention also rates a decent bet at 8/1. There is improvement in him if he can settle but on his seasonal debut that is a concern.

The feature is the United House Gold Cup over 3 miles. Phillip Hobbs holds a strong hand with two progressive chasers in top weight Quinz and Balthazar King. However the form of the Munster National, won in convincing style by Muirhead from Bideford Legend looks strong. Muirhead faces a jump up the weights but on the best of his hurdles form has a bit still in hand. He might just be taking to the chasing game and couldn't have won any easier last time. He looks fair EW value at 8/1 with William Hill.

The Novice chase is an interesting 4 runner affair. No bet but a careful watching brief is advised. In particular Megastar from the stable of Gary Moore is of interest. He is a lovely big chasing type and i have been wanting to see him over fences for some time now. He always promised to deliver over hurdles but never quite put it in when it mattered. I am hoping that the switch to fences brings about the necessary improvement. He could well make up into a top class chaser. He faces a strong field on his debut so it will be interesting to see how he fares.

Supporting Card At Wetherby

The Charlie Hall Chase is the undoubted feature but the supporting card is very strong as well.

The opening Novice Chase is difficult to weigh up until the bookies price it up but the three of interest are Round Tom, Cloudy Too and Helpston. Round Tom looks the one with most improvement and rates the best of them provided his prices isn't silly short. With the Walsh/Nicholls combination teaming up it might well be.

Nicky Henderson does particularly well in these mares hurdle races and he send Whoops A Daisy as his sole representative here. He did have A Media Luz entered but places his hopes on this one instead. She racked up a hatrick in minor events before disappointing when well fancied for the mares final last year. This is easier and she looks capable of improvement. The return to 2 miles will also be in her favour. Top rated is the Paul Webber trained Alasi. She was 4th in the Mares Hurdle at the Festival behind the brilliant Quevega. She sets the standard but perhaps lacks the scope for improvement of Whoops A Daisy. Again it is difficult to draw firm conclusions without the bookies' prices but the Henderson horse looks the one.

Fair Along has taken the John Smith's Hurdle for the last two years and bids to make it a hatrick in 2011. The top rated is Ashkazar but he's a tricky one to work out and preference is for Carlito Brigante. He was on a sharp upward curve last year culminating in an impressive win in the Coral Cup at the Festival. He then found Big Buck's and Quevega too good at Aintree and Punchestowns but faces nothing of their calibre here. Still has scope to improve further and he is fancied to take this at 5/1. What A Friend, 4th in the Gold Cup is an interesting contender but dropped to hurdles he is opposable with bigger targets ahead of him. Again, the comments of Paul Nicholls will be very informative in the morning. I advise you wait for that information before 'wading in'. But, as he admits himself, trainers never quite know where they stand, so using the information as guidance is crucial.

In the Novice chase Havingotascoobydo looks to have just the fences between him and victory but he couldn't negotiate them safely last time. He should be a clear cut winner with a clear round but, as we saw with the Old Roan last week, these three runner affairs can offer up some curious results. He will be a deservedly short price but a surefire winner with a clear round, surely?!

The Charlie Hall Chase

One of the early season features is the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby over 3 miles. The race was won last year by Nacarat who returns to try and retain his crown. However, a strong field has assembled to try to knock him off his perch. This race will be very informative as many of the challengers to Long Run's crown feature. Hopefully a viable challenger will emerge to shake up the staying division.

Nacarat - Winner of this race 12 months ago but faces a much stiffer ask this year. He is a consistent horse at around the 160ish mark or just below, but i think it will take a career best for him to retain his crown. He also has a penalty to hold him back. Sure to give a good account but opposed on this occasion.

Diamond Harry - Unbeaten in 5 seasonal reappearances and has only met with defeat on three occasions. Once behind the brilliant novice hurdler Mikael D'Haguenet in the Neptune at the Festival, once behind the arguably the best staying hurdler of all time Big Buck's and once when pulled up in the RSA at Cheltenham. He was restricted to one appearance last year when taking the prestigious Hennessy Gold Cup. He has been difficult to train but the best time to catch him is first time out. If he is to take a big prize this season then this is a terrific opportunity for him. If you back him in this and he loses, then i'd be confident in saying that you could make it all back by laying him in races further down the line. The one to beat.

Poquelin - The highest rated horse in the race and something of a Cheltenham specialist. He has excelled in 2m5f chases at the top level but has just been found wanting when favourite for the Ryanair Chase the last two seasons. He is now stepped up in trip which is something that could bring about improvement. He has been talked of as a potential Gold Cup contender and if he proves his stamina here then he will certainly enter calculations. Gets his favoured good ground here. A big chance if he gets home.

Weird Al - First start for Donald McCain since switching from Ian Williams. He was well fancied for the RSA in 2010 but was forced to miss the race through injury. Was then a leading fancy for the Hennessy but could finish only 8th before being pulled up in the Gold Cup after breaking a blood vessel. On something of a retrieval mission and needs to recapture that early sparkle. Best watched.

Chicago Grey - High class who took the 4 mile National Hunt Chase at the Festival this year. He looked the winner in a good handicap back at that track a couple of weeks ago but came to grief at the second last. Certainly not a plodder but a few fancied to have a touch too much quality for him in this competitive heat.

Time For Rupert - A warm order for the RSA Chase last year after two impressive novice victories. Disappointed when only 5th but that was a commendable effort considering he bled. He had previously shown his quality when chasing home Big Buck's in the 2010 World Hurdle. A tralented horse but question mark to answer on his return. Big player if returning to form.

Acrai Rua - Rated 110 and will need to improve by at least 50lbs to figure here. Well outclassed.

Conclusion

The three market principles are Diamond Harry (5/2), Time For Rupert (3/1) and Poquelin (9/2). I fancy the market has it about right and i fancy those to fight out the finish. Diamond Harry has never been a horse that i have particularly liked but this looks a perfect opportunity to open his account for the season. He has a touch of class about him and connections seem confident that he is fit and well. Poquelin has run well fresh and gets his ground and is fancied to make a race of it if his stamina holds. Paul Nicholls' comments in his Betfair column will make interesting reading tomorrow. Time For Rupert looked a chaser of huge potential early last season and it will be disappointing if he isn't on the premises.

Breeders' Cup Greats - Part 3

Now for a personal favourite of mine. He was known simply as 'the Iron Horse', and never was a name so richly deserved. The great Giant's Causeway was as tough as they come and he showed all his battling qualities throughout his excellent campaign in 2000. He was never out of the first two in all his 13 starts and won 9 of them. During the year of 2000 he ran in no less than 10 times, 9 of them at Group 1 level. He won 5 consecutive Group 1 prizes, including the St James' Palace, the Eclipse, the Sussex, the International, the Irish Champion and the QEII. In his other races he won a Group 3 and finished 2nd in another 4 Group 1 prizes. He might not have been the most brilliant racehorse that ever ran but he was one of the toughest. His battling qualities and level of consistency were remarkable. In his final start he was sent to take on the best that America had to offer in the Breeders' Cup Classic on the dirt. It is always a tough ask for a horse to transfer their turf form to the dirt but if ever a horse was tough enough to cope with the challenge then the Iron Horse was the one.

As you would expect a top class field assembled for America's biggest prize. The field included Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus, Belmont winner from 1999 Lemon Drop Kid, and Grade 1 winners Tiznow, Captain Steve, Albert The Great, Cat Thief and Golden Missile. Giant's Causeway was drawn poorly in stall 14 of 14. He broke well and tracked to the inner under Mick Kinane but he was stuck 4 wide round the first turn as Albert The Great set a decent pace from Tiznow. As the field raced down the back stretch he settled in 3rd as Tiznow moved up to push the pace. As expected he was off the bridle entering the home turn. But this was not a cause for concern because this was a horse that found plenty for pressure. The giant Tiznow travelled strongly into a clear-cut lead entering the home straight as Mick Kinane went for everything on the Iron Horse. He had a couple of lengths to make up and he gradually closed the gap. Throughout the final furlong a titanic battle ensued. Giant's Causeway just got his head in front inside the final furlong. But in the end he was unable to get past the American horse going down by a 1/4 length after an epic tussle. In many ways it was a fitting end to his career because he was a battler through and through. It was typical of the horse that he could find a way to challenge under such unfavourable circumstances. A poor draw, travelling wide and the new surface were not enough to make him lay down and he fought all the way to the line. His tenacity and determination deserved a win but it was not to be. Despite this it was a race that exemplified everything great about horse racing as two of the best horses in the world battled up the home straight for a major prize. A great race and a fitting end to the career of the Iron Horse.

And whilst this is something of a diversion, if anybody questions the will to win of a racehorse i advise that you point them in the direction of the Iron Horse. His displays earlier in the season are well worth a look to those who have not had the pleasure of witnessing them. He simply refused to be beaten. He was never impressive but always seemed to find a way of having his head in front when it mattered most.

The St James' Palace - They lined up to challenge but just couldn't get past.

The Eclipse -What a race with Kalanisi, Sakhee, Shiva and Fantastic Light in opposition. But once again he just will not be beaten.

The Sussex Stakes - A return to a mile but still too strong as he sees off Dansili.

The International - Another titanic battle with Kalanisi, this time challenging wide to avoid a fight, but the Iron Horse is impossible to pass once more.

The Irish Champion Stakes - 5 consecutive Group 1s as he holds of Best Of The Bests and the fast finishing Greek Dance.

A mighty fine racehorse.

Mark Johnston On The Whip

Mark Johnston, leading trainer, qualified vet and BHA board member is someone with a most interesting view on the whip and its use. For reasons that i cannot understand, the views of such a renowned and expertly qualified figure appear to have been lost in the somewhat more trivial arguments about the new regulations. Why his views have not at least been put forward in the whip debate is perplexing to say the least. As a figure participating in the sport and involved in its running, and as an expert in horse (and animal) welfare he appears to have all the necessary qualifications to make his opinion worth far more than most. If the racing community could put forward such a strong argument then i think it would go a long way to addressing the farcical situation we are now experiencing.

If you have not read it already then i believe it is essential that you read his argument set out below. It represents a pleasing departure from the current focus of the debate, and addresses the far more fundamental issue of why the whip is an essential aid.

Mark Johnston:

"It's cheating a bit to take something you have written for one publication and reproduce it, word for word, in another.

Maybe it wasn't quite so bad for me to take a section from the February Klarion and reproduce it in my 'Bletherings', especially as I was seeking to demonstrate that David Ashforth had misquoted me in the Racing Post, but I am going to do it again now. I am going to take that self-same piece and print it, yet again, word for word, here.

I can assure you I am not doing it just to save me the time and effort of writing something new - although it is a bit of a relief, with so much new work on my plate now, to reduce a bit on the Bletherings and Straight Talking - but I think it is very important for me to reiterate my views on whip use and, as I have had so many positive comments about that article, I think I should put it out again for those who missed it first, or second, time round.
 
I feel compelled to re-enter the debate on this subject to help redress the imbalance in the Racing Post and other papers. The Post, or at least their editor-in-chief Alan Byrne, claims to have presented a balanced view but they patently have not. They have not only given more space to David Ashforth's, antiwhip, views but they have embellished his articles with emotive headlines and tabloidean, red 'prohibited' signs.

They tell us that this is all about public perception and that racing without whips will attract a greater audience but I am not prepared to accept that view. I recognise the importance of public perception but I will not put it ahead of horse welfare. 

In February I wrote:
I don't suppose the cranks and bunny-huggers will ever give up trying to get the whip banned from horse racing, but it would be nice to think that they bother to listen to the counter arguments.

Sadly, it seems, they do not. This issue rears its ugly head every year or so and, every time it does, I reiterate what I consider to be the logical case for retention of the whip, but it looks like nobody ever bothers to listen.

They keep coming out with the same old drivel which assumes that the purpose of the whip is to make the horse go faster and increase its chances of winning. That, to my mind, would only be truly logical if some had them and some didn't. You could of course argue that some jockeys are more effective with the whip than others but then again, if you took the whips away, as John Francome says, some jockeys would still be better than others at using other methods of encouragement.
 
The latest thing is that the RSPCA have commissioned a study which they say has proved that the whip makes no difference to the result of the race and, as the study was carried out in Australia, that, presumably, includes when jockeys wave it around like the blade on a propeller. 

So what? As I have said above, they all have them and so they are clearly not there in order to give an advantage over competitors. Whips, sticks, riding crops, or whatever you want to call them, have been carried as long as man has been riding horses and that is simply because they are an essential tool for the purpose of controlling a horse. The whip is often, as is recognised in the rules of racing, required to discipline horses, to prevent interference between horses in a race and, to some extent, to aid steering.

But, to my mind, it has a far more important function in racing: to keep a horse balanced and, ultimately, reduce the risk of serious injury even when it is getting tired towards the end of the race.


In breeding horses to race over centuries we have selected for and greatly enhanced the flight response which is inherent in all horses. That response, which is driven by chemicals in the body such as adrenalin and endorphins, can be initiated quite easily in a fit, trained, racehorse by the very excitement of being at the races but it must be maintained throughout the race.

There are many physiological changes taking place as part of the flight response and, together, they ensure that the mechanical components of the body are fuelled to capacity and can work up to maximum output but with natural limiters in place to try to ensure that the body is not pushed to breaking point.
 
However, as the horse tires, many components of that physiological response wear off. The excitement wanes, the stride shortens and the weight distribution alters with the head and neck lowering and more weight being thrown onto the vulnerable front limbs. At this point, it is in the best interests of the horse to reinforce the flight response and get the horse to the end of the race in a fully alert state. The strokes of the whip, which cause no lasting damage to an animal of that size, initiate a new 'injection' of adrenalin and endorphins.
 
Those who have heard this argument from me before will know that I like to compare this tiring state with a boxer about to come out for the last round of a gruelling fight. The jockey's use of the stick is akin to the seconds slapping their man's cheek and telling him to get his wits about him, keep his chin in, and look after himself.

I certainly wouldn't feel comfortable about horses racing without the aid of the stick.

Now, if you can accept any part of what I say about the physiological flight response, you will understand why David Ashforth's suggestion, that whips should not be used at the end of a race, is so ridiculous. That is the very time when they are needed. And it is equally wrong to suggest that the whip should not be used on tired horses as that is when they need the 'wake-up call' and, in my view, it is far preferable to see the jockey using the whip in rhythm with the horse than to see him throwing his weight forward and compounding the imbalance of weight over the horse's front legs. 

It is, however, quite wrong to hit a horse which has gone beyond the point of response but this is very well addressed in our current rules (now the 'old' rules). Jockeys who continue to hit horses when no response is forthcoming are punished for doing so but even then, in the vast majority of cases, there is no harm done. It is virtually impossible to hurt a horse with the whips
they carry now. 

Maybe those who are so concerned about public perception should put their time and effort into thinking of a new name for the instrument carried by jockeys as it certainly isn't a whip as most people would know it. A 'paddle' might be a better description."

A quite excellent piece that goes a long way to addressing the fundamental issue of the whip and why it is an essential tool in horse racing. Unfortunately this seems to have been lost in the more trivial debate over the current regulations.

Breeders' Cup Greats - Part 2

If you ask anybody to name the greatest jockey ever the name at the top of many lists will be Lester Piggott. Famously the winner of the Derby on nine occasions, a record which still stands to this day. He also rode 4,493 winners and was Champion Jockey 11 times. His strength in the saddle was formidable. Lester retired from race riding in 1985 and took out a trainer's licence but in 1987 was jailed for 3 years after being found guilty of tax evasion. He served 366 days of his sentence and had his OBE revoked in 1988. He decided to make a dramatic return to the saddle at the end of 1990 at the age of 54. Just a matter of days into his return he was booked for the ride on Royal Academy in the Breeders' Cup Mile for the legendary trainer Vincent O'Brien. 

Victory seemed improbable given that Lester had not ridden for so long. But nobody could ever doubt his ability or appetite for a battle. His will to win was second to none, and this proved the decisive factor. Lester and Royal Academy broke slowly and settled in last place before moving up to settle with just two behind in the early stages. All the way down the back stretch Lester crept into the race so that he was in 6th entering the home turn. Down the stretch he pulled the bay colt to the centre of the track and came with a flying run to get up on the line. It was a fine performance from the horse but it was an astounding ride, exhibiting timing, judgement, strength and that infamous will to win, all in spite his long absence from the saddle. It marked a truly remarkable comeback from one of the very finest jockeys to have graced this world. 

Breeders' Cup Greats - Part 1

The Breeders' Cup is the pinnacle of American racing. Run in November it is their end of season Championship, and also represents something of a World Championship too, with big money and big reputations at stake. It sees the best horses from around the world fighting it out for the title of best in the world. Over the years the meeting has played host to some of the finest moments in horse racing. In this series i will relive some of the best: the best performances, the best races, the best horses.

The first horse in the spotlight is the brilliant juvenile Arazi. He won 6 of his 7 races in France, including the Prix Morny and Grand Criterium. It was decided that he would take his chance across the pond in the Juvenile. Such was his brilliance in Europe, Sheikh Mohammed offered $9m for a 50% share in the horse before his American adventure. The faith of the Sheikh was to be rewarded in brilliant style as he ran away with the 1991 Breeders' Cup Juvenile in astonishing fashion. Drawn terribly in gate 14 of 14 he jumped slowly and headed to the inner. He was trapped a little ride round the first turn and found himself well off the lead, being set by the American star Bertrando (Champion 2yo in California, and winner of the Grade 1 Norfolk Stakes). But it was his breathtaking mid-race move as he swept past the whole field to lead entering the stretch that led to the superlatives. It is widely regarded as the finest juvenile performance ever. He was crowned Champion 2yo in Europe and America, and also took the Cartier Award for European Horse Of The Year too. His Timeform rating of 135 was exceptionally high for a 2yo. To put it in perspective Frankel was rated just 129p after his brilliant juvenile campaign last year.

He started as a very hot favourite for the 1992 Kentucky Derby, but drawn 17 of 18 he could not perform the same heroics, and, after threatening for the lead round the home turn, faded to finish 8th. He was never able to recapture his devastating 2yo form and was retired after trailing in 11th in the Breeders' Cup Mile. He underwent an operation to remove bone chips in his knees after his 2yo campaign and some suggested that this was the reason behind his poor form. 

He also failed to make his mark as a sire, and after 3 years standing in Newmarket he was moved to Three Chimney's in America before heading to Japan, and then Australia, with one year standing in Switzerland. Ultimately his latter years, both as a racehorse and as a sire were a disappointment but his showing that night is one that will never be forgotten. It has been described by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association as the "single-most spectacular performance in Breeders' Cup history". Considering the epic performances that the meeting has enjoyed that his high praise indeed.

He Came, He Saw, He Conquered

Camelot confirmed his debut promise with a scintillating display in the Racing Post Trophy. He was sent of the well backed 10/11 favourite and there was never a moment of worry. Settled in rear by Joseph O'Brien he was travelling noticeably strongly as the field entered the final 2 furlongs. As the jockeys around him started to become more animated, O'Brien was still sitting pretty aboard the favourite. Approaching the final furlong he angled out for a run. The response was electric and instantaneous. He picked up the leaders in effortless style before drawing right away to win by 2 and a 1/4 lengths. The margin of victory was decisive but it still did not do the authority of his success justice because in reality he was value for far more. It might well be the case that the opposition are not up to much but you cannot fault the manner of victory which was most impressive. Whether quotes of 4/1 for the Derby represent 'value' or not is a different matter.

I was hoping for an impressive performance because the one thing this season has lacked is an impressive 2yo colt to look forward to over the winter. Born To Sea might confirm his early promise if he reappears as expected in the Group 3 Killavullan Stakes at the end of the month. Even if he cannot follow in the illustrious footsteps of his half-brother, Sea The Stars, Camelot is certainly one to look forward. He is a clear favourite for the Derby, and on this evidence deserves to be too. He is also challenging for favouritism for the 2000 Guineas, and , if allowed to take his chance, would be a threat to all because he doesn't look to be short of pace on this evidence. A very exciting prospect for next season.

Over the jumps, Master Minded was a disappointment at Aintree as he could only finish last of the three runners, with Albertas Run running out for hard fought win. Apparently he looked a little short and there are undoubtedly bigger targets ahead. He is certainly not one to right off on the back of one disappointing run. Over at Chepstow Fingal Bay announced himself as a novice hurdler of the highest order with a comfortable success in the Grade 2 Persian War Novices Hurdle on his debut over timber. It is a long way away, but he certainly looks the type to take his chance at the Festival in March. Also at Chepstow Tataniano ran out an impressive winner of the 2 mile handicap chase. He was a top class novice (impressive winner of the Maghull at Aintree) but has yet to really stamp his mark on the senior division after an interrupted campaign last time. On this evidence he looks right back to his best and looks like being a Nicholls' Champion Chase contender for 2012.

From The Flat To The Jumps

From The Flat

Tomorrow afternoon sees the last Group 1 of the 2011 British flat racing season with the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster. Camelot, from the stable of Aidan O'Brien, heads the market. He has been well supported since the ante-post markets opened and he is now a solid 11/8 favourite. Ladbrokes, often quoted as having the inside track on the Ballydoyle yard, go even shorter, a shade of odds-on at 10/11. He has been backed like defeat is out of the question but his form hardly justifies such a short price. A ready Maiden winner the form of the race has hardly worked out well with nothing in behind yet managing to win since. Nevertheless he must be respected because this is a race that O'Brien targets with his best 2yos. His previous winners include Derby winner High Chaparral and Champion Juvenile St Nicholas Abbey. However, his price is prohibitive, and would suggest that there are value alternatives elsewhere. He will need to win and win well to justify favouritism and quotes of 10/1 for the Derby next year.

The obvious alternative is the John Gosden trained Fencing. This colt has also been well supported in the market after he bypassed the Dewhurst after the ground was deemed too fast. He made a pleasing introduction in a 7f Maiden at Newmarket before taking a Listed race at Newbury in taking style. This is another step up in class but he is clearly smart and may well cope with this higher grade.

Encke was second first time up behind Perennial, who has since finished 2nd in the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Headquarters. He left that form well behind when an easy winner of a mile Maiden and he looks one worthy of this step up in grade. He has a little to find on the book but is open to improvement. 

Zip Top won on his debut but has since been beaten twice in Group 3 company. Jim Bolger is renowned for his shrewd placing of 2yos, as shown when Parish Hall won the Dewhurst at 25/1 earlier this year. He needs to improve but he rates no back number though others are preferred.

Learn is the second Ballydoyle representative. He won his Maiden at the 3rd time of asking but strong preference appears to be for his highly regarded stablemate.

Talwar arguably brings the best form to the race, when running out a ready winner of the Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown in August. He has disappointed twice since then but he could be one to shake up the principles if he returns to form. You just get the feeling that a few might now be improving past him.

It is not a race that i have a particularly strong opinion about. My one hope is that a high calibre colt emerges. The colt Classics for 2012 look wide open at this stage and it would be great to see a high class contender emerge. Any of Camelot, Fencing or Encke could fulfil that desire. However, the one that looks a very big price is Talwar. He officially has the best form in the race and, whilst there may be others with more potential for improvement, he might have been worth chucking a few quid at EW. As there are only 6 runners that slightly limits the value of the EW bet so it is probably best left alone.

To The Jumps

The Racing Post Trophy is the last Group 1 flat race of the season but tomorrow also sees the first National Hunt big names roll into action. They are headed by the clash of dual Champion Chaser Master Minded and dual Ryanair Chase winner Albertas Run, in receipt of 10lbs. The Old Roan might have only attracted 3 runners but it will be great to see these two warriors back in action. Master Minded is touted as a possible King George contender and i think he will need to take this if those ambitions are to be realised. However a watching brief is strongly advised because this is a race notorious for throwing up shock results. Even the great Kauto Star went down to Aintree favourite Monet's Garden in 2007. 

There is also a whole heap of potentially exciting animals on show in the Aintree supporting card and at Chepstow, which sees the return of Woolcombe Folly and Tataniano in the 4.50 as well as the Grade 2 Persian War Novices Hurdle and Grade 3 Silver Trophy Handicap Hurdle. 

The flat season has been lit up by the fabulous Frankel with a very strong supporting cast. But there can be no doubt that it is brilliant to have the proper jumps season underway. As the build up to Cheltenham begins, we can but dream of those 4 days in March when the champions will be decided in the finest 4 days sport anywhere in the world.

The Whip Debate

As the whip debate rumbles on a successful conclusion to appease both sides of the argument appears further and further away. The literature on the subject is now extensive. As a racing fan, and, more importantly, as a horseman, this is a subject which i have a strong opinion about.

The new rules were intended to appease the public perception that the whip is a tool of cruelty. There can be no doubt that to the uninitiated the idea of a jockey forcing a horse to produce yet more effort with a whack of the whip is not a pretty picture. But, as the thoughts of the initiated have shown, the use of the whip is far more complex than that. This distinction is perhaps the cause of the problem. The difference between the 'initiated' and the 'uninitiated' is one unlikely to find favour and not one that i am comfortable with. It imposes an air of arrogance on the part of those involved with the sport and ignorance on those that are not. It is impossible to appease the fanatical animal rights activists, but the views of the wider public are important. However, is it not understanding of the whip as a tool of correction and encouragement that is required? If this is the case then surely it is education which is the solution? I am confident that this is the essential factor which is currently missing from the debate. This is the only way that the the vast gulf between the two arguments can be narrowed.

The jockeys and the research suggest that the whip does not hurt the horse when used correctly. This is a viewpoint that i subscribe to. The whip is an essential tool. However its effectiveness does not rely on pain. To suggest that the people involved with the sport are willing to harm the horses under their care is offensive. These people (the jockeys, trainers, owners, stable lads, and so on) rely on the welfare and well-being of the horses for their jobs and their success. No human connection can be a success without a happy and healthy equine counterpart. That is not to say that a set of regulations is not desirable. The authorities must ensure that the use of the whip is correct.

The fact remains that abuse of the whip is an inexact science. A single hit can be an abuse, whilst a jockey using it 20 times during the course of a race can offend nobody. It is for this reason that a numerical limit is an unsatisfactory solution. Just because the whip has only been used 7 times does not mean that it has been used correctly. And, likewise, just because it has been used 8 times does not mean that it has been abused. This clearly highlights the need for an objective examination of the particular circumstances in question. The ideal, if unrealistic and potentially unpopular (with the wider public), solution must be for each ride to be analysed by a panel of experts to determine whether the jockey's use of the whip during the course of a race was satisfactory. This is resource intensive, as well as being a system open to abuse. It is obviously essential that each comparable case is treated in the same way. In the pursuit of a fair, reasonable and acceptable solution it seems essential that a compromise between these two extremes must be struck.

The new whip rules favour too strongly the rigid solution, with the focus on a numerical limit. The old rules were more flexible, but not without fault. However, i find it difficult to accept that an experienced horseman could not view a race and be able to adjudicate on any whip abuse in evidence. As already discussed, whip abuse is not merely a question of numbers, and, it might be argued that this trivialises the matter. An experienced eye should be able to recognise whip abuse instantly. The problem with this otherwise satisfactory solution, is that it is unlikely to appeal to the very people that these changes were designed to appease. 

The second question is that of penalties. I do not think anybody can possibly argue that Christophe Soumillon's punishment after his winning ride in the Champion Stakes was proportional to the offence committed. It has even been suggested that he may be successful in the courts with an appeal of 'Wednesbury Unreasonableness'; a legal test that a decision is so unreasonable that no reasonable person applying their mind to the matter could have come to the same conclusion. Soumillon's fine, in excess of £50,000, was certainly unreasonable, at least in my own opinion. It can be argued that a loss of 5 days earnings for a minor offence is similarly excessive. But, whilst the fine was ridiculous, and the suspensions extreme, i find the wider implications more concerning. Can anybody with experience of horses and horse racing seriously suggest that the ride on Cirrus Des Aigles was anything other than exceptional? His whip use was not abusive in any way whatsoever. The very fact that this ride of indisputable excellence was in contravention of the rules merely highlights their unacceptability. 

What is clear is that a remedy to this farcical situation is required immediately. The review of the whip review is due on Friday and with any luck a satisfactory outcome will be reached. However, my optimism is fading rapidly as leading jockey after leading jockey comes out in criticism of the new rules. It appears there is a massive gulf between the BHA, the PJA and the jockeys that they are purported to represent. Those speaking out against the new regulations include the perennial champion jump jockey AP McCoy, the former flat champion Ryan Moore, and the sidelined Richard Hughes. These are three of the most respected members of the weighing room and their very objections must be a huge concern for the new regulations. These are people who have ridden horses all their lives. They are people who love horses. They are people who rely on horses for their living. They are not people who want to or would abuse these animals. 

It seems impossible for a solution to be achieved that will appease both sides of the argument. If the BHA backtracks with these new rules then the welfare brigade will have a field day. They will say that our inward looking sport is outdated and must look at itself and embrace the change that is essential to its future. The jockeys seem intent that these rules must not stay and strike action seems likely to follow if at least some compromises are not made. The BHA must shoulder the blame for this sorry state of affairs. The reported consultation with jockeys now appears to have been much less extensive than we had originally been led to believe. Why they did not feel the need to properly consult those who would have to ride within these rules, and those who know the impact of the whip best is beyond me. But then the reasoning behind introducing these new rules in the week leading up to Champions Day is similarly unbelievable. By failing to ensure acceptance of the new rules within the industry, or a trial period to prove their workability, the BHA has created an impossible situation. The current regulations are not acceptable to those involved with the sport, but any backtrack will not be acceptable to the people these regulations were designed to appease. A successful outcome does not seem possible and it appears that the situation is one of damage limitation. I commend, and agree with, the fundamental objectives of the whip review because welfare must always be at the forefront of our thinking. However, the method of implementation has been a disaster. In my opinion, far more emphasis must be placed on educating the population so that they understand the whip and how it is used. It is only by increasing understanding that we can increase acceptance. Without this, any alteration can only bring about a short term solution. The review instead takes the easy way out, seeking a compromise that finds favour with nobody. It must be hoped that a resolution is achieved, and quickly.

I recommend that you read/listen/watch the following:

• Ryan Moore speaking to Racing UK this evening.
• Greg Wood being whipped by a jockey.
• Racing Post Television whip debate, in particular the view of John Reid. For that matter i am not sure that i agree with Brough Scott, usually a voice of reason, on this occasion. He seems to talk himself round in circles.
• Interview with Christophe Soumillon after his Champion Stakes victory.
• The full report is available on the BHA website.
• This post provides a neat summary of articles and viewpoints on the matter.

A Champions Day Review

The Grandstand bathed in glorious sunshine before racing.

After a week of catastrophe, headlined by the quite ludicrous decision to bring in the new whip regulations in the week leading up to the biggest day of the flat racing calendar, British Champions Day was a thorough success. The big name horses were out in force, there were big performances, terrific racing and the weather was mighty fine too.

Frankel was the undoubted star attraction, and it was his performance in the QEII that would determine the success of the occasion. As he has done so often before, he lived up to his billing with another excellent display, coming home 4 lengths clear of the gallant Excelebration and the French filly Immortal Verse. Perhaps the most encouraging aspect was his relaxed demeanour through both the preliminaries and the race. He was a little keen through the early stages, with the sedate pace not to his liking but there was nothing of the impetuous tear-away that we have seen before. He finished the race strongly, and had there been another furlong to run would have run out an even more convincing winner. Though i did not see it myself i understand that Tom Queally once more had a little trouble pulling him up! According to his trainer Sir Henry Cecil "he will get a mile and a quarter next year on his head". On this evidence it is hard to disagree. 

His following is growing all the while and he was clapped into and out of the paddock before the race. His greeting when returning to the winner's enclosure far outweighed that afforded to any other horse. The steps around the paddock were packed so tightly that it was as if we had been teleported to Cheltenham to welcome in the winner of the Gold Cup. The reception was worthy of that occasion too. The video below shows my view of the event. I must apologise for the poor quality and the slightly over the top 'welcome' from Matt Chapman!

The Champion Stakes was officially the main event, but, whilst the line-up was of the highest calibre, the race took an inevitable back-seat as Frankel stole the show. Cirrus Des Aigles was an excellent winner from the brave and ever so consistent So You Think. The mares Snow Fairy and Midday filled 3rd and 4th with King George winner Nathaniel back in 5th. The starting line-up featured no fewer than 7 individual Group 1 winners who had between them won 24 individual Group 1 races. Those are phenomenal statistics and merely back up the argument that this was one of the strongest races ever run on these shores. Cirrus Des Aigles, as a gelding, seems sure to stay in training next year and it has also been suggested that So You Think might attempt to enhance his reputation further with another year on the racetrack. They will provide worthy opposition to the mighty Frankel when he steps up to 10f. 

Deacon Blues was a comfortable winner of the Sprint confirming himself as a Group 1 winner in waiting. He is sure to be a threat to all next season, especially since the Champion Sprinter elect from this season, Dream Ahead, is headed to stud. The one hard luck story was Moonlight Cloud who never had a chance to show what she is made of. She is far better than the bare result would suggest. However, it is hard to suggest with any confidence that she would have beaten the winner, such was the authority of his performance. 

Dancing Rain proved that her Oaks success in June was no fluke when running out a ready winner of the Fillies and Mares race. She is reported to be off to Japan to take on Snow Fairy. She will no doubt prove a worthy challenger and looks a filly of abundant potential. She once more benefited from a ride of great quality from the excellent Johnny Murtagh but on this occasion there can be no doubt that the best horse won.

Fame And Glory returned to something like his best form when winning the Long Distance Cup from his old rival Opinion Poll. The form still looks a mighty long way from his 129 rated performances in behind the legendary Sea The Stars. I am still unconvinced that he is actually suited by these extended tests of stamina, but his class allows him to win regardless. It was suggested on Racing UK that his sectional times would entitle him to a crack at some major prizes over shorter and i would adhere to that view. On the evidence i have seen i think Yeats' 4 Gold Cups record is not under threat. In a strongly run 2m4f i can see a few sticking it out better than Fame And Glory. He is still a horse of high quality and to me it seems a shame he is forced to run at a distance which, to my eye at least, looks not to be his optimum.

The day was a great success but it is important that it does not bask in the glory. The event was blessed with unseasonably warm weather, with not a single cloud in the sky, and perfect racing ground, when much softer might have been anticipated. Nevertheless, whilst there are important issues to address the overall impact of the day was overwhelmingly positive. The crowd was large and enthusiastic and this years renewal provides a strong foundation on which to build for the future.

A Champions Day Preview

A week of turmoil in the (British) racing world will culminate in a spectacular card at Ascot on Saturday; British Champions Day. This new development has not been without opposition but the end result must be applauded. There remain small things which would benefit from a little tinkering, but the overall picture is exactly what was required. A day of top class racing will genuinely crown the Champions in their category, with perhaps the sprint king, Dream Ahead, the one notable absentee. It is hoped that the recent, and ongoing, furore over the new whip rules does not detract from an excellent card. I will never understand why it was felt necessary to introduce such regulation in the week leading up to Britain's premier flat card. Surely it would have been more sensible to wait until the major racing had passed to allow the new rules a trial run on the all weather. Instead we have a days racing overshadowed by the whip and the absence of the supreme stylist Richard Hughes, who has handed in his licence in protest at the new rules. It is hoped that a quick and successful solution is found.

1.50 - Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup, Group 3 (2m)

The premier staying race in the British calendar is the 2m4f Ascot Gold Cup. The first and second from that race, Fame And Glory and Opinion Poll re-oppose here. Fame And Glory is the undoubted class horse in the race. He was rated 129 in a brilliant 2009 campaign when he consistently found the super Sea The Stars just too strong despite starting favourite for the Derby. He comes into this race on the back of two sub-par performances and it is difficult to recommend backing him with any confidence, but he may easily make 11/4 look like excellent value. If he returns to form he wins, the question mark is whether he is able to recapture his best. Opinion Poll looks the most likely to take advantage but has had a long season and may be worth opposing, especially at 9/4. Times Up is the progressive horse and comes here on the back of an impressive Listed success at Newmarket. He is clearly on the upgrade but will need to find a little more to take this. That is not beyond the realms of possibility and he rates the best bet at 7/2. 

2.25 - Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes, Group 2 (6f)

A strong field of 16 assemble for this 6f dash. The James Fanshawe pair of Deacon Blues and Society Rock both feature prominently in the betting. They were both triumphant at the Royal Meeting in June over course and distance, Society Rock taking the Group 1 Golden Jubilee and Deacon Blues winning the Wokingham Handicap. But it is Deacon Blues who heads the market here on the back of 3 subsequent Group 3 wins, all achieved in convincing fashion. Meanwhile, Society Rock has found Moonlight Cloud too strong when a clear second in the Group 1 Prix Maurice De Gheest, and finished only 6th behind Dream Ahead in the Sprint Cup when starting slowly. Deacon Blues is the horse on the upgrade but Society Rock is a renowned Ascot specialist meaning it is easy to make a case for both of them. However, they all might have to play second fiddle to the Freddie Head French filly Moonlight Cloud. She was targeted at a Classic campaign, including when starting favourite for the 1000 Guineas. She failed to see out the 8f trip and has been second, behind 3 time Sun Chariot winner Saphresa, and won twice since dropped to 7f since. The last of thos victories came in the Group 1 Prix Maurice De Gheest when she was an emphatic winner. But that victory was achieved on soft ground, and the combination of faster ground and the drop to 6f, the first of her career, is a cause for concern. At bigger prices it is possible to make a case for Dafeef. He beat Deacon Blues in a handicap last season and has always been a horse held in high regard by the Haggas team. He has not progressed to the same level as Deacon Blues but his ability is not in doubt. If he puts it all together he may just ruffle a few feathers at big odds. I'd be surprised if the winner didn't come from those four, but Group sprint races and shock results seem to go hand in hand. If you asked me to nail my colours to one horse i would probably side with Deacon Blues, but the faster ground is a negative. 

3.00 - Qipco British Champions Fillies' And Mares' Stakes, Group 2 (1m4f)

An open heat which is somewhat weakened by the defection of top class fillies Midday and Snow Fairy to the Group 1 Champion Stakes on the same card. Either would have been a warm favourite here but their absence creates a far more interesting race, with a few holding strong claims. At the head of the market is the Roger Varian trained Ferdoos. Her only start this season saw her run down Vita Nova in a Listed race in May. Her long absence must be a cause for concern, and, with only 4 runs under her belt, a lack of experience may be a concern. Vita Nova has since gone one to advertise the form well with seconds in both the Lancashire Oaks and the Yorkshire Oaks. In the former race she was an incredibly unlucky loser because her saddle slipped meaning it was impossibly for Tom Queally to ride her out. She ran well in defeat behind Blue Bunting in the Yorkshire version showing further improvement. I think she has a great chance of breaking her Group race duck provided injury concerns have not left their mark. Dancing Rain won the English and German Oaks and brings forward strong credentials. She got an easy lead in the Epsom version but to say she was flattered may be unfair. This has been the target since and she is not easily dismissed. Crystal Capella has won this race twice in its former guise (the Pride Stakes) but this looks a tougher renewal. Gertrude Bell was the beneficiary of Vita Nova's tack malfunction at Haydock and it is hard to see her confirming the form. Banimpire is an admirably tough and consistent filly but may just find a few too good in this class after a long hard season. Meeznah has been running over further and may just lack a change of gear over this trip at this level. I think i am happy to ignore Ferdoos because i think she may be a little overrated on the back of her defeat of Vita Nova because that filly has since stepped up considerably. There is no doubt that she has the potential to improve once more but she will need to. Dancing Rain is feared but i think that Vita Nova can take this for Sir Henry Cecil and Tom Queally, to give them both a nice confidence boost before Frankel. An EW saver on Dancing Rain is advised.

3.35 - Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (British Champions Mile), Group 1 (1m) 

Frankel. Need i say more? Devastating in the 2000 Guineas and in the Sussex Stakes last time. Sir Henry believes that he has improved since then which will make him unbeatable here. The one minor concern is that he was disappointing in victory in the St James' Palace Stakes at the course. That was on the round mile and this is on the straight course, and even so the narrow margin was more down to the 'interesting' race tactics than any dislike of the course. To those who think otherwise might i refer you to his demolition job in the Royal Lodge. Frankel dominance in the market should not detract from the opposition, who themselves are top class, but unfortunately not in the same league as the mighty Frankel. Best of them looks to be Immortal Verse and Exclebration. They have both won Group 1s in France this year, with Immortal Verse taking the Marois and Excelebration victorious in the Moulin. All of Immortal Verse's form has come on soft ground and she will encounter a much faster surface here. For that reason preference is for Excelebration to chase the unbeaten Frankel home. It is difficult to see anything else getting involved. At 6/1 Excelbration rates a decent EW bet. He looks sure to place and, in the horrific eventuality that Frankel disappoints, looks most likely to take advantage. It will be an enormous blow for racing if Frankel is unable to win on this landmark day. I hope he wins and i hope he wins well.

4.10 - Qipco Champion Stakes (British Champions Middle Distance), Group 1 (1m2f)

A race that has far exceeded my own expectations. The quality and depth of the field is remarkable and this must surely rate as the best 10f race run in Europe for many a year. The one challenger for the title of the 10f championship is the Breeders Cup Classic, but this year, the prospective field for that race looks far inferior to what we have on offer tomorrow. So You Think, the monster Australian import, heads the market. He has proven himself the best 10f horse around this year and was arguably unlucky not to at least get closer to winning the Arc. In the end he finished 4th from an unfavourable draw with his run coming too late. In front of him in 3rd that day was Snow Fairy. She has shown she is a top class filly capable of beating the colts but she is up against a very strong selection here. Back to 10f she might just find one or two with a few more gears than her. It is interesting that she comes here rather than heading on her travels once more. Second in the market is King George winner Nathaniel. I fancied him strongly for the Arc but am concerned that this drop to 10f will not play to his strengths. Trainer John Gosden stated that the King George turned into a 10f race but crucially he was only facing 12f horses. Here he faces the cream of the crop over 10f, and whilst an admirable run seems assured, there may be a few with a change of gear he cannot match. Further negatives are the draw and the ground. Next up is Midday who has won 2 from 5 this season but has claims to have been unlucky in all three defeats. She was sent to the front when travelling all over St Nicholas Abbey in the Coronation and was collared in the final 100yds, she then ran second to Misty For Me in an inexplicable Pretty Polly Stakes, and then found just stablemate Twice Over too strong in the Juddmonte International when again travelling powerfully into the lead sooner than ideal. This is a stronger race but i think it may play to her strengths. She can quicken and i think she rates the main danger to the favourite under ideal conditions. Twice Over was in front of her last time and has won this very race the past two years in its previous guise at Newmarket. But at Ascot, on firmer ground i fancy him to fail to complete his hatrick. He has yet to win at the course and has developed a preference for slight ease underfoot (Cecil suggested that he has had trouble with his feet) neither of which will suit him here. I fancy Midday to prove best of the Cecil duo on this occasion. The French challenger is Cirrus Des Aigles. He has proven a model of consistency during an excellent campaign. He is a gelding so was unable to take his chance in the Arc. He has yet to win a Group 1 and seems to just get caught out when meeting the very best. He is also said to prefer cut with the best of his form on softer ground so for that reason alone he is opposed.The unbeaten Dubai Prince falls into the 'could be anything' category. He is still unbeaten and rated a leading fancy for both the 2000 Guineas and Derby before injury. His return was decent, and found favour with pilot Kieren Fallon. Dettori takes over here and he could well be one to shake up the main players. He still has a fair bit to find but he might just be the type to be able to do it. My concern is his lack of experience in a race full of big and battle hardened individuals. He is a horse for the future but i think this will be a step too far too soon. Another improver is Green Destiny who won in really taking style at the Guineas meeting. I was put off backing him again on course because he looked like he would improve for the run but he still won in impresive fashion. He has since taken the John Smiths Cup and two Group 3s. But he has run disappointingly twice but i am prepared to forgive him both efforts. He is progressing quickly and he could well be a bigger threat than his odds imply. I fancy So You Think to take this with Midday rated the main danger and a good EW bet. Green Destiny is the one at a price who might just spoil the party but i think his lazy style of racing might just count against him in this calibre of race.

4.45 - Qipco Future Stars Apprentice Handicap (7f)

I won't be having a look at this one. Why could we not have another top class race here instead? Or at the very list one of the big money heritage handicaps to get stuck into? I appreciate that it is an excellent opportunity for the apprentice riders but i am unconvinced that this is the right time or the right place.

The Best Horse Ever? - Part 4

Race 7 - St James' Palace Stakes, Group 1 (1m)

Rattled At The Royal Meeting - Result

Frankel's next start was the subject of much debate. Opinion seemed divided on whether he should stick to a mile, a distance at which he looked virtually unbeatable, or whether he should step up in trip to tackle the Derby at Epsom over 1m4f. Sir Henry had long held stamina concerns over his charge and eventually the decision was made that he would bypass the Derby in favour of Royal Ascot. This was not a decision that found favour with everyone, but a decision which did have the best interests of the horse at heart. 

Frankel had already defeated his 3yo rivals in blistering fashion in the 2000 Guineas, and nothing had emerged to really lay down a challenge. But while the debate surrounding his Derby participation raged, his vanquished rivals were doing their level best to boost his form. Excelebration was an emphatic winner of the German 2000 Guineas, whilst Roderic O'Connor was triumphant in the Irish version under an excellent ride from young Joseph O'Brien. There was also the small matter of Grand Prix Boss, the best that Japan had to offer, coming over to challenge the most exciting colt for many a year. Frankel's superiority on paper was reflected in the betting as he started the 30/100 favourite. Even these prohibitive odds did not put the backers off; one punter staking £150,000! The confidence in the horse was high and defeat seemed out of the question.

The race itself was one that posed significantly more questions than it answered. Rerouted, his pacemaker, was sent into an early lead. Michael Hills pushed him clear of the field while Frankel was boxed in on the rail. As they headed down the back straight the pace was strong, and in an extraordinary mid-race move Tom Queally asked his charge to pick up the leader 5f out. The response was instant as he quickly closed the gap between field and pacemaker. The rest, fully aware of his freakish ability, set off in pursuit. Queally engaged top gear fully 4 furlongs from home and he entered the straight 6 lengths clear of the field. The move was decisive but it put his unbeaten record in serious jeopardy. His pursuers began to close the gap, but still Queally continued to push his mount out hands and heels as the chasing pack sensed victory. In the end, victory never looked in real doubt, but the manner of his win lacked the utter and emphatic superiority that his Newmarket performance had been blessed with. The expressions that his connections wore in the winner's enclosure told its own story. Both Cecil and Queally looked almost stunned. They new things had not gone to plan, but the horses unbeaten record remained intact. However, the questions began to flow: Was the horse feeling the effects of his epic Newmarket performance? Was he tiring in front? Was he just idling? Were the others catching him ? And so on. The answers, at least those offered by his connections provided some definite conclusions. He was still the best horse by far and he was just idling in front, but they almost sheepishly admitted that things had gone awry. It was a testament to the horse's ability that nothing had managed to pass him down the straight. It seems very doubtful that any other horse could have possibly manage to win in such unfavourable circumstances. There were those who said that it showed he was beatable, and there were those who said it proved he was unbeatable. They had got to within 3/4s of a length but if they had only got that close when things had gone that badly, how were they ever going to get past him?!

Older Opposition

Whilst Frankel was giving his army of supporters anxious moments in the St James' Palace Stakes, the winner of that race the previous year was giving his own fans no such worries. Canford Cliffs had complete a Group 1 five timer in the Queen Anne Stakes in the first race on the very same card, in the process taking down 13 (now 14) time Group winning mare Goldikova. Olivier Peslier put up overweight on the great mare, but, in reality, Canford Cliffs was a comfortable winner and appeared value for the 1 length margin. The Hannon/Hughes team set their sights on Frankel. Canford Cliffs was by no means certain to win, but it was a reflection of his own brilliance that he was by no means certain to lose either. And there were very few horses in the world who it appeared could realistically give Frankel a race. He was now the horse that stood in the path of Frankel's relentless pursuit of greatness. Frankel had already beaten his own generation, he now had to prove himself better than his elders. Their clash was anticipated more than any race for many a year. Billed as the 'Duel on the Downs', it would be a race to define the career's of both horses.

Race 8 - Qipco Sussex Stakes, Group 1 (1m)

Duel On The Downs - Result

Canford Cliffs had been the more impressive of the two horses at Ascot, and had defeated a stronger foe in the brilliant race-mare Goldikova. And yet, such was the confidence surrounding Frankel, Canford Cliffs still started the comfortable second choice of the punters at 7/4, with Frankel a well supported 8/13 favourite. The race attracted just 4 runners, but only two of them counted; what the race lacked in quantity it more than made up for in quality. Frankel was the undisputed best of the 3yo milers, and Canford Cliffs had confirmed himself the best of the older horses. It was a clash of the generations featuring two of the best milers that we had seen for decades.

The race billed as the 'Duel On The Downs' turned into a procession. 'Demolition On The Downs' would have been more appropriate with the benefit of hindsight. The critics had cribbed Frankel after his narrow margin victory at Royal Ascot but he answered any doubts as he surged clear in impressive fashion to leave Canford Cliffs trailing in his wake. The margin of victory was 5 lengths but the true measure of Frankel's superiority was so much more. Canford Cliffs, famed for his strong travelling racing style, was made to look ordinary as he struggled to stay with Frankel as Queally gradually allowed him to lengthen entering the final 3 furlongs. By the time the 'button' was pressed, the result was already beyond doubt, but Frankel bounded clear instantaneously to the astonishment of everyone. A race had been expected and maybe most had anticipated a Frankel win, but few could have predicted that he would dispose of a top class rival with such disdainful ease. He had confirmed himself, not only the best horse in the UK, but the best horse in Europe and the best horse in the World. His new rating was 135 taking him comfortably clear of the unbeaten Australian sprinter Black Caviar. It was a performance of rare brilliance, and, even the news that Canford Cliffs had suffered an injury and subsequently been retired to stud, could not detract from the huge impression left on all those who had witnessed it. He had always shown that he was a brilliant horse but here he had shown that he was a brilliant horse who had learned to race. Gone was the free running, hard pulling, juvenile, and here was the finished article, a lean mean racing machine, with far more talent than any other horse around. A potent combination, and one that promised oh so very much for the future.