Starry-Eyed

RACING PREPARES TO SAY GOODBYE TO FRANKEL: THE HORSE WHO BROUGHT BACK POSITIVE PRESS

2012-09-02T20:18:00.000+01:00

Bittersweet news circulated around the UK this weekend about the announcement of Frankel's last ever career run which will take place at Ascot in October.

As many of you know from various articles I have written in the past, I am a fan of Frankel and watching the colt race has encouraged me to learn more about flat racing as well as the broadcasting that goes into it.

The unbeaten race horse will compete in the 10-furlong Champion Stakes at Ascot on October 20. Despite enthusiastic suggestions from outside Frankel's yard, the thought of racing in the Prix de L'Arc Triomphe at Longchamp was turned down in favour for Ascot.

I think it is great that Sir Henry Cecil has decided that his unbeaten superstar should stay in this country and bypass Longchamp for his final farewell on the track. It gives a sense of British spirit and greatly promotes UK racing.

The increase in ticket sales on the Flat just shows how marvellous this horse truly is. After dreadful press NH horse racing received due to the deaths of Synchronised and According to Pete in the 2012 Grand National, Frankel, with the help of Black Caviar, has promoted the sport to a new high.

Frankel's thirteenth unbeaten win in the Juddmonte International Stakes at York was a sight to see: once this colt is off our screens at the end of the year the sport won't quite be the same.

It is a shame that Cecil decided not to enter his superstar in the Arc as I reckon that race would have been the incredible for his career. Frankel would have no doubt battled for his life on the track but Ascot is still a wonderful place to display his racing ability.

Ascot racecourse will no doubt promote Frankel's last show immensely well. With the usual attendance of around 30,000 I would not be surprised to see an even bigger turnout for the Champion Stakes.

Victory from Frankel would set a European record of nine consecutive wins at Group One level and bookmakers will offer no bigger than 1-10 odds for another Frankel first.

I hope that a statue of the wonder-horse will be created at Ascot to remember the horse who made global headlines and put the spirit back into British racing.

KAUTO STAR RETURNS TO YARD BUT SHOULD HE RUN AGAIN?

2012-08-28T13:02:00.002+01:00

As the world of Flat racing holds its breath over the where Frankel will run his last race, there is a similar story to be told within National Hunt racing.

Kauto Star has returned to Paul Nicholls' yard at the same time his stable mate Denman has left for a post-racing career as a team chaser.

With questions being raised over the horse's future, should the popular 12-year-old return to the track for one last race?

Kauto Star's previous run in the Cheltenham Gold Cup certainly enlightened these thoughts. Despite a heavy fall in schooling three weeks before the race, Nicholls still decided to enter his champion alongside rival Long Run.

However, it was too much to ask from the two-time Gold Cup champion, as jockey Ruby Walsh pulled him up before the tenth fence.

When Walsh finished the popular race that day, the crowd immediately cheered and clapped. It was noise worthy for a winner.

And that's what I believe Kauto Star is: he is one of NH's finest, similar to how Frankel is to the Flat.

I admire the ambition and faith Nicholls puts into Kauto Star as he is a wonder to watch. Last season the old race horse stamped his authority on NH racing. He landed a fifth King George VI Chase title at Kempton as well as returning to Haydock in perfect form. But best of all he is now mentioned in the same awe that Desert Orchid always will be.

I believe that Kauto Star has run his last race and we should remember him for the great titles he has already won; not the ones we thought he could.

It has been an absolute pleasure watching the 12-year-old compete all his life. But for now I think that Kauto Star should follow Denman in a post-racing career. He has been out of the field all summer and despite having time to rest and soak up more energy, Nicholls should hang up his reins.

I agree that having Kauto Star back on the track for another potential win would be fantastic, but I would hate to see him having to be pulled up again.

If the champion did return for another season, he would have to be sure of a win, otherwise it will be difficult to remember him in the same light as we do now.

But what an outstanding career he has had. Kauto Star and Frankel = two wonders of the sporting world.

CHANNEL 4 GAINS A WINNER BY SELECTING CLARE BALDING AS NEW HOST FOR HORSE RACING

2012-08-17T12:50:00.000+01:00

After the BBC recently lost the rights to broadcast horse racing on their channels, I felt saddened of the fact that we might not see Clare Balding present the sport again on our television screens.

But news of the sports presenter's move to Channel 4 has been met with praise and smiles as I believe Balding is currently the best person for the job.

During the Olympics I asked various friends and colleagues who they thought were the best hosts for the event. The majority of which answered 'Clare Balding' as she proved to be an outstanding key figure throughout the programming.

However, despite her move to Channel 4, Clare stressed that she will continue with the BBC, which has made me admire her more.

Channel 4 has confirmed that Clare will will be the lead presenter of its coverage. Their horse racing events will include Aintree's Grand National, The Cheltenham Festival, Glorious Goodwood and Royal Ascot.

As an aspiring sports presenter, Balding is the perfect role model in the industry. Her warmth on camera as well as her in-depth knowledge of every sport she presents is extremely encouraging.

Even if she is not an expert in a particular sport, (e.g. boxing) she will do her homework and research into any given topic.

Personally, Balding has always been an inspiration for me: watching a woman become such a dominate figure in sport has encouraged me to work in the industry and has given me faith that if you put hard work and dedication into your career, you can achieve anything.

It was an absolute pleasure watching her host Olympic sports and I think Channel 4 have won a winner with regards to their horse racing coverage.

HUGHES AND MOORE JOCKEY FOR TITLE

2012-07-27T12:20:00.003+01:00

Jockey Richard Hughes recently powered past William Buick into second place for the championship later this year, but agent Tony Hind claims there will be no favouritism between him and current leader, Ryan Moore.

Should Moore or Hughes win the title, it will be a first for Hind having two of his riders competing head-to-head despite being in the industry for 20 years.

It must be a bittersweet moment when you discover that two of your riders are racing for a major title, but then again I can imagine it being the same in any sport.

I admire the fact that Hind insists he hasn’t got a favourite. The ideal result for any would agent would be to have two or three riders battling it out for a championship win.

Moore has won the title three times and currently stands as the favourite at 4-5. Hughes, however, would be a popular winner: he has finished runner-up three times in the last four seasons yet missed the whole of April through his Indian suspension. He now stands at 5-4 to win.

But the question remains: who would you like to win the championship title this autumn?

Article also features on @valuehorsetips blog: Thursday Thoughts from Abby Rugg

JOHN GOSDEN BUZZING AFTER NATHANIEL'S POTENTIAL BACK-TO-BACK VICTORY AT ASCOT

2012-07-19T12:00:00.000+01:00

Focus has turned to John Gosden this week following his announcement of Nathaniel's go-ahead for back-to-back victories in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot.

After Nathaniel's successful first appearance of the season in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown, the team behind the horse have had the urge to compete him in both top races.

Gosden's colt won the King George last year, beating Farhh by half-a-length. However, he had to dig-deep for the win.

A lot of talk has surrounded Farhh recently as he is to race against Frankel in the Eclipse Stakes: he is seen as a classy horse that may have the most ability to beat the superstar. (But will that ever happen?!)

Connections of Nathaniel have admitted that the horse faces a tough task to emulate Dahlia and Swain as the only third dual winner of the King George.

Despite the challenge ahead, all signs are reportedly to be good ahead of the mile-and-a-half Group One race.

A sign of a winner is to see the levels of enthusiasm from the team. Gosden seems hyped at the chance of winning a back-to-back with Nathaniel and you cannot leave that unnoticed. No other person knows the well-being of a horse than their trainer. If he is excited about the colt, then I will take note.

Farhh is also to be supplemented for the Qipco Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood. He won the Thirsk Hunt Cup earlier in the season and his form looks ideal for him to be favourite in other Group One races.

However, seeing as Godolphin has decided to race him against Frankel, the horse's ability cannot be questioned.

Quick Quiz:

In what years did Dahlia and Swain become dual winners of the King George?

Also published at: @valuehorsetips - Follow me every Thursday on their blog for 'Thursday Thoughts from Abby Rugg'.

"HOW FARHH WILL FRANKEL WIN?"

2012-07-17T22:58:00.000+01:00

The world's top-rated horse - err who is that again - oh yes, Frankel, is expected to compete against another classy horse in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood on August 1.

News has circulated around the media about the latest horse to have a go at beating the superstar: Farhh, the runner-up in the Eclipse Stakes at Sandown, will line up aside Frankel in a few weeks.

Frankie Dettori will be saddling Farhh and I am sure quite a crowd will gather to see whether Frankel can pull out a mind-blowing 12th successful victory.

Farhh ran last year's King George winner, Nathaniel, to half a length at Sandown but was unfortunate in finishing third in the Prince Wales' Stakes at Royal Ascot.

It seems that the horse's form will be ideal to place him as favourite in other Group One races, yet Godolphin has decided to set him against wonder-horse Frankel.

Why do you think that was decided? Maybe the team thinks that Farhh will produce some magic on the day. Nevertheless I am sure an exciting race will happen at Glorious Goodwood.

Frankel won the Sussex Stakes last year and is hoping to maintain his 'world-number one' status by making it 12-out-of-12 wins.

However, Farhh has only raced five times to date and has previously lined up with Sir Henry Cecil's colt at Doncaster. He was sadly withdrawn at the stalls at the beginning of the race. (Frankel, at no surprise, did win the race by 13 lengths).

I tweeted: "Frankel or Farhh on August 1st at Goodwood?" And I did receive a few replies. 100% of answers being "Frankel". Or "Abby that's a dumb question".

But my favourite one of all came from the Racing Post's sub-editor, Ross Clarke (@Rossclarke123): "How Farhh will Frankel win? About six lengths I reckon".

HOW THE £40 MILLION DEAL BETWEEN BETFAIR AND BRITISH RACING IS A GOOD AGREEMENT

2012-07-10T15:53:00.000+01:00

Last week Betfair, an online betting exchange, signed a deal with British horse racing organisers which will allow a minimum of £40 million worth of funding to be used over the next five years.

I think that this deal has come at a good time: it will inject a secure and healthy sum of money to keep horse racing alive in this country.

The sport still attracts a huge audience within the UK, but I feel that numbers may have slipped due to the bad press the Grand National had, both this year and in 2011.

To me, the Grand National receives the most media attention in this country: it is arguably the only horse racing event that will attract an 'office sweepstake' and therefore appeal to a wider audience.

Recent posts on my blog describe my thoughts towards the Aintree event and I am saddened by how many people I have come across still base their views of horse racing on the Grand National.

However, in return of this deal, the sport has pledged a minimum number of fixtures every year and offers to maximise betting opportunities.

In my opinion, this move will give a boost for the horse racing industry as it will bring a large number of benefits to the sport: a guaranteed price will support it over the next few years as well as a certainty towards its future.

The agreement will give 10.75 per cent of all revenues on horse racing taken from its UK customers and will come into effect from the 51st Levy Scheme.

Paul Bittar, Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority, said that the agreement "represents a landmark for both racing and betting industries".

And you know what, I think he could be right on this one.

WHERE ARE FEMALE COMMENTATORS IN RACING?

2012-07-05T14:08:00.000+01:00

As many of you know already from reading my blog I am all for women’s equal rights – so my next question is this: Why do male commentators and broadcasters for horse racing out-number women in the industry?

I was reading a list of professionals in the media for the sport and only three women were listed out of 49 names.

Female jockeys and trainers compete alongside men everyday. Even in the bigger races such as The Grand National and Royal Ascot, jockeys such as Katie Walsh, Nina Carberry and Hayley Turner have no trouble battling against the opposite gender.

But why is it a different story on the commentary side?

I for one would love to see more female commentators but many fans feel that a woman’s voice is too high-pitched to deal with the excitement of a race. It’s crazy to think that a man’s voice is the only tone for commentary. It took a competition, Racing For Change, last year to find Britain’s first female commentator.

I find it awful how it takes a competition for women to feel they can put their names forward for such a job. On one hand I can see why it happened and I respect that it opened a window of opportunity, but on the other I feel that females shouldn’t be intimidated into applying for something that is extremely male-dominated.

I’ve heard people say that allowing a woman to commentate will be ‘patronising’. So I ask: How exactly? This is what I mean by women having a lack of confidence to proceed into the industry. It’s unfair to suggest that women do not have what it takes because of their tone of voice. Why is it assumed that the majority females are constantly giggly and shrill?

It is time to accept that more women want to proceed into the industry and I encourage racing fans to give confidence towards aspiring female commentators.

This is 2012, not the early 1900s.

Also published at: @valuehorsetips - Follow me every Thursday on their blog for 'Thursday Thoughts from Abby Rugg'.

WORLD CLASS WINS IN FLAT CREATES POSITIVE ATMOSPHERE IN RACING AFTER TRAUMA OF GRAND NATIONAL

2012-07-03T14:01:00.000+01:00

A fresh breeze of encouraging news has swept through racing this week with Camelot winning the Irish double.

The unbeaten colt claimed victory in Saturday's Irish Derby resulting in good of publicity for the sport alongside Frankel and Australia's Black Caviar.

Having these three champion horses grab headlines is ideal for racing after the bad media coverage the Grand National clocked up.

The deaths of Synchronised and According To Pete caused controversial debates, one in particular asking whether the event should be banned.

But despite all that, it seems that this season of flat racing is giving the sport a boost: more people are reading about the wonders of Frankel and Black Caviar, and not only that, more people are actually gaining an interest due to these racing legends.

Camelot joined in as a short-priced favourite on Saturday (1-5) with previous odds being 1-10 for Frankel and 1-6 for Black Caviar.

Unlike Black Caviar, Camelot didn't have to scramble to victory. He had to work for the win as rival Born To Sea finished two-lengths behind.

But Aidan O'Brien's colt is now priced at 1-2 to win the Triple Crown at Doncaster in September and I believe he has shown us that he can claim it.

Ever the optimist, I want Camelot to win the rare treble like so many others I know - Imagine more positive media coverage if he did.

For now, the terrible incidents of the Grand National have been swept under the rug and it just proves how negative headlines can cause a stir amongst non-racing fans. Rather than a mouthful of bad publicity, watching incredible wins from world class flat racing horses is exactly what the sport needs right now.

WOMEN ARE WORTHY ENOUGH TO GET EQUAL PAY AT WIMBLEDON

2012-06-29T13:34:00.000+01:00

French player Gillies Simon caused controversy in the world of tennis by claiming that women do not deserve to be paid as much as men because the men's game is deemed "more attractive".

He added that it's about the entertainment as well as stating that men's tennis is actually more "interesting" than women's.

I believe that Simon's claims demonstrate how sexism is still an issue in sport. A man cannot be paid more because he is seen as a greater interest. If that is a reason behind any pay, then it is wrong.

Wimbledon has awarded equal prize money since 2007: Singles winners win £1.15 million; Doubles winners get £260,000 for the pair; and mixed doubles earn £92,000 for the pair.

Giving the same amount of prize money is the correct thing to do in my opinion: female tennis players train and work equally as hard as male players do. The quality of play in women's tennis is just as good as men's.

However, I can understand why some people are arguing men should receive greater pay because of their task to compete to the best of five sets, whereas a women has to play best to three.

But surely we're all about equality here? We are in the 21st century, not the 20th. Being a women should not be a reason as to why pay should be less. That is unfair and sexist.

Yes, I understand why many depict men's tennis as more interesting: the 'Top Four' create headlines worldwide because of their rivalry and always seem to cause the biggest shocks and upsets within the sport.

But women's tennis is as interesting. I agree, there is not a rivalry between female players similar with the likes of Nadal and Murray. But why should Simon use that as the reason as to why women shouldn't receive equal pay.

Female players have fought long and hard to get equal prize money, so why are many people claiming the opposite to what they campaigned for?

Men have the physical ability of a 5 set match whereas a female may not have equal ability. Equal pay should be awarded because it is not a woman's fault if they do not have the physical strength to compete in 5 sets. I can understand people's argument against this, but I think Simon is wrong by claiming men's tennis is 'more attractive' and 'entertaining'.

My message to the critics is this: Stop making gender the issue. Tennis players, both male and female, work hard and put equal time and effort into their training. It is not about the entertainment as Gilles Simon believes. It is about the players' ability to perform as athletes and achieve sporting goals for themselves and their countries.

LUKE NOLEN'S LUCKY ESCAPE ON BLACK CAVIAR AT ROYAL ASCOT

2012-06-28T17:55:00.000+01:00

Despite the story already being re-told for the past few days, Black Caviar’s nail-biting win at Royal Ascot is a race that I keep watching on repeat for two reasons.

One: The wonder from Down-Under was spectacular to watch as she wowed the crowd with her ability to run like the wind. Comparisons have been made between the mare and Frankel but both are completely different: Black Caviar is a sprinter whereas Frankel enjoys the distance.

And two: Jockey Luke Nolen’s rookie error. He stupidly eased Black Caviar for a few frightful seconds as she approached the winning post, allowing Moonlight Cloud and Restiadargent to gain advantage.

77,000 Aussies gathered together on the day to watch Peter Moody’s mare compete in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes expecting to see their heroine make it 22 out of 22 wins.

But cheers from the opposite side of the globe joined the gasps from spectators here in the UK. Imagine what would have happened if a British jockey had caused their Australian horse to lose. After so much hype and media coverage, it would have been awful if Moonlight Cloud, who finished in second, had snatched the victory.

Going into the race, the mare’s domestic rating was 132, 15 pounds below her official rating in Australia. Respect, however, has to be given to the horse. Considering she had pulled muscles in her back she produced a feisty performance to maintain her unbeaten record.

The relief on Nolen’s face when Black Caviar was announced as the overall winner is a picture that will not be forgotten quickly. Black Caviar’s close encounter is a race that will be repeated over many years.

If Nolen hadn’t eased her up then Black Caviar would have won by more than a nose, something that handicappers would have considered in giving her performance rating two pounds higher than given to French rival Moonlight Cloud.

Black Caviar flew the flag for her country with triumph and her win works as a fitting end to the BBC’s coverage of Royal Ascot. Similar to the Grand National, the narrow victory demonstrates the excitement and passion that the BBC had towards the iconic race meeting.

With the opinions and analysis of the race still being published, I reckon I won’t be the only racing fan to replay Black Caviar’s royal win at Ascot.

Also published at: @valuehorsetips - Follow me every Thursday on their blog for 'Thursday Thoughts from Abby Rugg'.

CAMPBELL GILLIES DIES AGED 21

2012-06-26T16:22:00.002+01:00

The sad news of Campbell Gillies' death in Corfu has circled round the globe this afternoon and seeing the number of messages on Twitter proves what a top jockey he was.

Campbell was on holiday with a group of jockey friends when he reportedly died as a result of a swimming accident.

Campbell Gillies celebrates his win -Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle Photo taken by Meteorshoweryn (taken from Flickr)

Arguably, Gillies' most memorable ride was on Lucinda Russell's Brindisi Breeze in the Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle in March at Cheltenham.

Sadly, the gelding died in May after he collided with a fuel tanker. The horse was Russell's first success at the jumps racing's premier meeting and is still greatly missed by all.

Even at the age of 21 the Scotsman proved to be a top winning jockey. He was to celebrate his 22nd birthday tomorrow (Wednesday) which makes the news even more poignant.

Campbell rode over 50 winners for Russell and this message was put on her website (http://www.lucindarussell.com/):

"He was a much loved, popular and respected member at Arlary House, and it is so hard to lose part of our 'family'. Our hearts go out to his mother Lesley, brother and sister Finlay and Rita.

"We are immensley proud of the achievements of Campbell. It was through his innate ability and talent that he reached great heights as a jockey at such an early age.

"More than that he had a wonderful charm that I believe came across to everyone who met him, and through his media interviews."

My thoughts go out to Campbell's family, friends and work colleagues today. I am only aged 19 and to see such a talented young man who was only two years older than me go too soon is shocking.

Racing will not be the same without Gillies but he will be forever remembered. RIP.

ROYAL ASCOT SELECTIONS - DAY THREE (THURSDAY JUNE 21)

2012-06-21T14:50:00.001+01:00

15:05

Momentary

Been trained specifically for this race and looks to progress further.

Princess Highway

A lot of talk surrounding this filly and keeps on improving.

15:45

Fame And Glory

Difficult to look past this one. Last year's winner and has the ability to perform well again.

Saddler's Rock

Beat Opinion Poll by four lengths last year and has what it takes here.

16:25

Prince Alzain

A potential player in this race. Good form. Looks ideal.

17:00

Grandeur

With Dettori on board the horse can pull out an impressive win here. Progressive horse. Shouldn't be dismissed.

17:35

Rocktherunway

Always prominent. With good form and a race previously won at this distance the horse has ability to out shine the others.

FRANKEL AND BLACK CAVIAR - BATTLE OF THE SEXES?

2012-06-21T14:13:00.000+01:00

If you failed to watch Frankel's stunning sprint at Royal Ascot on Tuesday afternoon then you missed a piece of spectacular history being created.

His 11th straight victory has been making headlines worldwide so you don't need me repeating the stories.

But what I will say is that watching the colt win by an eye-bulging 11 lengths gave me goosebumps. I watched jockey Tom Queally remain with the pack and then suddenly lurch into action.

It was as if Frankel and Queally had a close connection on the day. Both jockey and horse must have thought: "Oh god, what will happen if we don't win? There's a lot of people here today... Err right, here we go. RUNNN!!"

Or something similar to that effect...

Sir Henry Cecil's horse is something special and watching him observe Frankel after his win on Tuesday showed how much time, effort and patience he puts in to produce fantastic moment's like that one.

Now the attention is growing more on Black Caviar. I heard someone say the other day that the 2012 Royal Ascot meeting is turning into the battle of the sexes. Can the colt out-do the mare within the racing event?

What ever happens on Saturday, Black Caviar has done her team proud. The Diamond Jubilee Stakes is her first race off Australian soil and I think she will make her 22nd start one to remember.

ROYAL ASCOT SELECTIONS - DAY TWO (WEDNESDAY JUNE 20)

2012-06-19T21:57:00.000+01:00

14:30

Sovereign Debt

Has won here before when 11/4 favourite despite being held up in rear. Has the ability to pull through again.

Producer

Won previously at this distance before and could do well here to place.

15:05

Chachamaidee

Sir Henry Cecil's filly has been aiming for a win in this race. She looks set to do better than last year.

Nahrain

Seems to be the biggest threat. Shouldn't be dismissed.

15:45

Carlton House

Even though still lightly raced has the style to proceed well. Favourite has disappointed punters before so Sir Michael Stoute's horse looks to be the main threat.

16:25

Boom and Bust

Progressive horse. Has the ability to do well with Hayley Turner riding.

Arabian Star

Perhaps an ideal place. Has won distance before.

17:00

Jadanna

Looks set to win with Dettori on board. The filly performs well and has bookmakers vote.

17:35

Esentepe

This trip will suit her. Progressive filly and can find extra acceleration

ROYAL ASCOT SELECTIONS - DAY ONE (TUESDAY JUNE 19)

2012-06-18T14:56:00.000+01:00

14:30

Frankel

This spectacular horse looks set to continue making history and looking at his odds the bookmakers seem to think so as well.

Is Frankel's price too short for your liking? Try these for second and third:

Excelebration
Premio Loco

15:05

Ortensia

Seeing as this week is about Black Caviar, I'm hoping to see if other Australian horses can pull out a win. Ortensia placed first out of 15 in previous race and with 23 in this one can come out on top.

15:45

Power

Leading favourite and looks likely to win here.

Lucayan

Could possibly make an interesting second.

16:25

Dawn Approach

A lot of talk around this colt. Has the ability to win here and heavily backed.

17:00

Al Khawaneej

Shortlisted. Liking the look of this horse and could set up a win.

Dark Ranger

Consistent horse. Ideal for a place bet.

17:35

Hototo

Has won on distance before and with previous win could possibly place first if can hold on again.

Cosmic Chatter

Like the look of the horse. Has also won distance before and can get a victory with Gibbons riding.

ROYAL ASCOT ENCOURAGES APPRECIATION FOR FLAT RACING

2012-06-18T14:25:00.001+01:00

Royal Ascot begins tomorrow, arguably the most exciting flat racing event around, and great horses have already been making headlines across the globe.

Even I am incredibly interested in this year's race meeting, something that hasn't really happened in the past.

I've always been a huge fan of National Hunt racing and it's only since I've had the burning ambition to become a journalist for the sport that I have gained a greater interest in the flat.

Black Caviar is the horse that has made the flat more attractive for me: she hasn't lost a race in 21 starts and her journey from Australia to the UK had me searching her name.

She is a very influential mare I must admit. Of course I have always followed horses on the flat but not as regularly as National Hunt.

Big Bucks, Midnight Chase, Denman, Kauto Star, Swincombe Flame, Katchit are all huge names in NH racing that I have grown up with and consequently admired. They're the horses that have encouraged me to go to race meetings and watch them run in the flesh.

But now I want to learn more about the flat, the jockeys and trainers and discover the difference between NH and flat horses; what makes them tick, their training schemes and the obstacles they must overcome to win a race.

I want to encourage all NH lovers to do the same: watch Royal Ascot this week and find a new appreciation for the flat. Don't dismiss the idea, it can arguably be as exciting. You've just got to find a new technique to put your finger on the winner.

Photo take by Jake Owens - Royal Ascot, Gold Cup Race, June 16th 2011. Taken from Flickr

BLACK CAVIAR TREATED AS ROYALTY AHEAD OF ASCOT

2012-06-10T15:38:00.000+01:00

Black Caviar is in good health after her marathon journey to England.

The mare travelled for 30 hours from her stable in Australia to the UK and has dropped nine kilos from her weight of 580kg.

She is to run in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot in just thirteen days and pundits have already turned to bookmakers for her latest odds.

It’s as if royalty has landed in the country: the mare has been unbeaten in 21 starts and the world of horseracing has been rocked by her red carpet arrival.

Who can argue that horseracing is a dying and cruel sport now? I have never seen a horse’s journey to this country fill newspapers and websites in an instant.

It delights me in watching the preparations for the horse: time, patience and hard work is visible and the trainer, owners, pundits and journalists are treating her with the respect that she deserves.

Trainer Peter Moody has said that he is a “bit nervous about it all” and I don’t blame him! A lot of money is being ridden on Black Caviar’s back but not only that, the effort towards maintaining the mare’s profile has been huge.

Black Caviar’s journey just proves how much of an athlete a horse can be in comparison with a human.

No other Australian horse has been a big star since the 1930’s Melbourne Cup winner Phar Lap.

But can Black Caviar win in just under two weeks' time and claim her 22^nd victory? Yes, I think so.

CAN CAMELOT WIN THE ST LEGER TO WIN THE TREBLE?

2012-06-05T22:27:00.002+01:00

The colt proved me wrong in the Epsom Derby - but will Camelot be able to prove me right this time round by winning the St Leger?

If he wins the race he will land Flat racing's Classic Triple Crown: Newmarket's 2,000 Guineas, Epsom's Derby and the St Leger was last completed by Nijinsky in 1970.

Camelot arguably has two more factors in his favour than the iconic horse did in the 70s for the Leger: a calmer temper (which Sir Peter O'Sullevan claims it's because of the horse's partnership with jockey Joseph O'Brien) and his late sire Montjeu is thought to be a better influence for stamina rather than Northern Dancer, Nijinsky's sire.

The St Leger win would make Aidan O'Brien the first trainer to win all five British Classics in a season.

I think Camelot can win the St Leger: wouldn't it be nice to see history being made right in front of us?

The last treble winner before Nijinsky was Bahram in 1935 and Oh So Sharp won the fillies version in 1985 (1,000 Guineas, Epsom Oaks and St Leger).

Camelot won the Derby by 5 lengths: an easy win some may argue. O'Brien and the colt make a good team. It would be a rare occurrence for the treble to be won by the same horse, but with O'Brien on board I think they can both have a comfortable win.

SAD FAREWELL FOR HENRIETTA KINGHT BUT MICK CHANNON WILL TAKE HOLD OF THE REIGNS

2012-05-29T21:49:00.000+01:00

Henrietta Knight, the trainer who won Cheltenham Gold Cup three-times with wonder horse Best Mate, announced her retirement last week.

Racing has lost a true lady: Knight is a very humble person. I watched her interview with the BBC during a few weeks ago and her modesty shone through.

It therefore comes to no surprise to hear that Knight has been nominated as a pioneer in the world of horse racing training.

The 65-year-old trained Best Mate, an iconic horse that is widely remembered within the sport and will be in generations to come.

Best Mate's biggest achievements, (listed at http://www.henandterry.com/content-7.html)

2000 Martell Mersey Novice Hurdle (Aintree) Best Mate
2001 Scilly Isles Novice Chase (Sandown) Best Mate
2002 Peterborough Chase (Huntingdon) Best Mate
2002 King George VI Chase (Kempton) Best Mate
2002 Cheltenham Gold Cup Best Mate
2003 Cheltenham Gold Cup Best Mate
2003 Ericsson Chase (Leopardstown) Best Mate
2004 Cheltenham Gold Cup Best Mate

Henrietta and her husband Terry Biddlecombe will be missed on the racing track: their characteristics on the sidelines and in the race-cards will be greatly missed.

Now the trainer's memorable success has been handed over to her neighbour and close friend, Mick Channon.

On her website, Henrietta writes: "[Channon] has agreed to continue to train the majority of the horses which are currently in my care. He too enjoys the National Hunt scene and is already making his presence felt in that sphere with recent good winners from only a handful of NH runners."

She also said that she felt "incredibly lucky" to have experienced some wonderful moments since she first began training in 1989.

But for now it's a sad farewell. But like they say, when one door closes, another one will open and I am sure that Channon will do a fantastic job taking hold of the reigns in the saddle seat.

BLACK CAVIAR SIDE-STEPS SUSSEX STAKES BUT WOULD SHE HAVE WON AGAINST FRANKEL?

2012-05-29T13:12:00.000+01:00

First of all I would like to apologise for my absence over the last few weeks - exams have taken over as you can imagine but I am happy to say that I have finished most of them and my full attention is back on horse racing!

It was announced that a clash between undefeated horses Frankel and Black Caviar in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood
has been ruled out.

Taken from Flickr: Black Caviar: Photo taken by Angus Richmond on October 8 2011

A statement was issued by Black Caviar's connections claiming that the mare will not be entered in the race on August 1st.

Frankel won the race last year and even though the colt looks certain to win it again, a certain question will stay risen: Who would have won - Frankel or Black Caviar?

Black Caviar is an undefeated Australian racehorse across 21 starts. Trained by Peter Moody, the mare was named WTRR World Champion Sprinter in 2010 and is still considered to be the best sprinter in the world.

However, Frankel is a horse that shouldn't be forgotten about: the colt is unbeaten in ten starts and similar to his rival, holds the title for best racehorse in the world.

Trained by Henry Cecil, Frankel's best performance to date is a race that will forever keep people talking. His win at Newmarket in 2011 is still described as one of the greatest displays on a British racecourse.

If Black Caviar competed in the Sussex Stakes I believe she would have won. Even though Frankel won well last year, I think the mare has more of an edge to make a race count.

After all, she has been unbeaten in 21 races compared to her rival's ten and with Luke Nolen riding her in all her starts I reckon she could have won in the £1 million showdown.

So - what are your thoughts: who do you think would have won between the pair?

Entries for the Sussex Stakes will be announced on Wednesday May 30.

RUBY WALSH: FACT-FILE

2012-05-15T14:50:00.000+01:00

It has been a while since my last horse racing post, so I have decided to focus on jockey's who have inspired me to work in the sport.

Ruby Walsh is a sportsman who has definitely been an inspiration, not only to fellow jockeys but also to pundits and journalists.

He tackles every race with determination and enthusiasm: not only in the high-profile races but also in the ones that may not mean as much with regards to media attention or prize money.

So here's why Mr Walsh has stood out of the crowd and is one of the reasons why horse racing is an attractive sport to admire:

FACT-FILE

Ruby Walsh dreamt that one day he would become racing’s most successful jockey and achieve high-profile wins within the sport.

At the 2009 Cheltenham Festival Walsh rode a record-breaking seven winners over the four days, yet on the second racing day of the 2010 Festival, the Irish hero rode Sanctuaire to victory in the Fred Winter Juvenile Novices Handicap Hurdle to make him the most successful jockey in the history of the spectacular racing event.

It should therefore come to no surprise seeing Walsh as odds-on favourite to be top jockey at this year’s Cheltenham Festival as the 32-year-old showed immense talent from an early age.

Born Rupert Walsh on May 14 1979, the reigning Irish National Hunt champion jockey is the second child of former champion amateur jockey Ted Walsh.

At a young age, Walsh won the Irish amateur title twice 1996/7 and 1997/98 before turning into the professional that we all know him to be.

The Irish wonder won the John Smith’s Grand National on his first attempt in 2000, aged 20, on Papillon, a horse trained by his father.

Ruby’s dream of being racing’s most successful jockey has become reality. To date he has ridden over nineteen hundred winners since his first win on Alexander Banquet in 1998.

The jockey really does create a buzz for all racing fans: his determination and love for the sport is visible to all and trainer Paul Nicholls must realise how lucky he is to have Ruby ride for his yard.

In March 2011 he rode Hurricane Fly to victory in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, finishing ahead of Peddlers Cross and popular horse Oscar Whisky. This was Ruby’s first triumph in the feature race and now he’s had it all: Walsh’s vision of winning high-profile races is no longer down to wishful thinking. He can live in reality.

NCTJ SPORTS JOURNALISM SHOULD CHANGE FOOTBALL DOMINATED SYLLABUS AND EXAM

2012-05-08T15:34:00.000+01:00

Since Andy Gray and Richard Keys’ sexist off-air comments about female referee Sian Massey the media has been under constant scrutiny and subject boards such as the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) should be doing more to encourage potential sports writers, particularly women, to gain a sports journalism qualification.

As a journalist who wants to report on horse racing, I find it disheartening to see that the NCTJ do not do enough for potential sports writers like myself who believe football is a male-dominated sport and still has issues surrounding sexism.

Photo taken by

using a

. (Taken from Flickr)

Fifty per cent of the overall mark in the NCTJ sports journalism exam is given to reports written about a football match, not one seen in live play, but one that has been televised before giving knowledgeable football writers, particularly men, a greater advantage.

Jacqui Oatley battled criticism when she was first announced as BBC Match of the Day’s first female commentator and she expressed her views on the matter: “I think that if the exam has put people off then that’s wrong, we need to be encouraging females. If you genuinely have women who are really into sport but football’s not really their thing I think it’s wrong if they’re discouraged from taking the course.”

Jacqui said that she didn’t agree with the exam having 50 per cent of the marks on a football report but she understood why the NCTJ structures it that way as it is the dominant sport of the country.

She added that if someone wants to write about other sports rather than football, there should be no reason for the NCTJ to provide footage of different sports to report on.

Laura Robson, US Open 2011, taken by AshMarshall on August 24, 2011 in Corona, New York, NY, US, using a Nikon D3000. (Image taken from Flickr)

As an aspiring sports journalist, I have no interest in football and therefore encourage NCTJ to provide more coverage of other sports, so that potential sports journalists who dislike football are given a greater chance of gaining a sports writing qualification. Jacqui agreed with this idea.

I complained to the NCTJ board directly about the high emphasis the syllabus and exam place on football, claiming that it is lazy and unfair.

The NCTJ Chief Examiner for Sports Journalism gave the following feedback to my complaint: “To work in any sports department, you need to have a basic knowledge of football. We work in multimedia newsrooms which require the ultimate flexibility. That is the foundation of any sports journalist.”

When asked if candidates of the exam could be given a choice of sports to report on, such as tennis or hockey, as they get equal coverage and therefore equally appealing to both men and women. The Chief Examiner said: “We have looked at other options; swimming, tennis, speedway, athletics, but for the part A exam [worth 50 per cent], we require a sport which runs for 90 minutes or so, and which lends itself to a two-part report.”

Photo taken by Arkle1 Janet Benoy on December 2, 2006 using a Canon EOS 350D Digital. (Taken from Flickr)

There are other sports that have the duration of around 90 minutes and even though football may be the dominant sport in this country, it should not dominate the NCTJ sports journalism syllabus and exam.

As Jacqui said, it seems strange that 50 per cent of the marks go on a football related question when that is not what everyone wants to do.

This article will be published in Broadcast Magazine. Many thanks to Jacqui for allowing me to give an interview.

Link to Broadcast magazine: http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/comment/in-my-view/women-sports-reporters-need-a-level-playing-field/5041550.article?blocktitle=IN-MY-VIEW&contentID=1091

Hold the Front Page: http://www.holdthefrontpage.co.uk/2012/news/nctj-in-sexism-row-over-football-dominated-exam/

SWINDON TOWN VS PORT VALE: AN INSIGHT INTO MY FIRST FOOTBALL MATCH

2012-04-29T15:08:00.000+01:00

Swindon Town 5 - Port Vale 0

For those who are following me on Twitter, you know already that I watched Swindon play at home against Port Vale in a bid to win League Two.

It was the first football match I had ever attended: my father, who is a Swindon fan, decided to take me a the game to see another side of sports journalism.

As you know I write about horse racing, but as the NCTJ sports journalism exam is 50 per cent football related, I needed to gain experience on writing football commentary.

I wouldn't say that I hate football, but I dislike it. I think there is too much attention surrounding the sport and too much money goes into it.

I believe that other sports should receive the attention football gets, but that's another argument for another blog post.

But experience is experience, and I needed some. We sat in the side stands near the press box and before the 3:00pm kick-off approached, Swindon's mascot, the Rockin' Robin, came on to the pitch and started strutting his stuff.

When I say 'strutting his stuff', I really mean trying to dance but ending up looking daft. Nevertheless, it was the first football mascot I had ever seen and it did bring out a smile.

Swindon had already been promoted from League Two last week but if they won today they would win the League title.

I watched the players from Port Vale and Swindon run on to the pitch with five minutes to go until kick-off and the crowd roared.

Swindon started okay in the first half: I thought they were nervous as they had a lot riding on the game. Port Vale put up a good fight in defence and even though Paolo Di Canio's team did not attack as well as I anticipated, it was still a good half to watch.

Simon Ferry played well and had a few good attempts at goal. Matt Ritchie also performed well and didn't let his side down.

Ritchie scored the first goal in the first half and what a super goal it was. He powered the ball into the corner of the net and cheers exploded out of the stands.

From that moment on, captain Paul Caddis could see that his team relaxed a little. Swindon grew in confidence and they gained control on the ball.

The second half was a lot better to watch: Port Vale tried to defend as well as they did in the first half but were unable to keep Swindon's confidence at bay.

I wouldn't say that Port Vale under-performed on the day, but Swindon had a lot to prove in the game and they had more ambition than their rivals to win the match.

Wes Foderingham put up a real fight in his corner. Port Vale had four or five opportunities in the same minute and Wes was kept the opposition's score at nil.

Swindon's Paul Benson scored two wonderful goals, putting Swindon 3-0 up. Now the team had rhythm and Port Vale knew that they would find it difficult to come back from it.

Aden Flint also scored, giving Swindon a 4-0 advantage. From this moment the Swindon fans began to sing in chorus, knowing that their bid for the title was becoming a reality.

Substitute Alan Connell scored the fabulous fifth and Di Canio, who was standing on the sidelines, saluted the crowd.

When the match ended, the stadium erupted. It was an odd experience for me because I had never witnessed such an explosion.

Swindon won 5-0 and were awarded the trophy on the pitch. The crowd cheered, cried, sang and danced and it was actually quite pleasant to see.

My first football match consisted of a win, a presentation of a trophy, watching a manger salute the crowd, a Rockin' Robin attempting to look good and a delighted crowd.

I still find football exhausting but attending the match on Saturday made me appreciate the sport more than I used to and I will no longer dismiss it immediately.

I thought that the match would be my last as well as my first, but as we were driving home my father turned to me and said: "Well, as it was a 5-0 win to Swindon you'd be welcome to come again."

Maybe it's his attempt to make me a lover of football rather than horse racing but the latter is my hobby and I'll be happy once I'm back watching Midnight Chase jumping the last at Cheltenham.

MY VIEW ON OTHER GRAND NATIONAL OPINIONS

2012-04-17T15:38:00.000+01:00

Reading through a number of articles about this year's Grand National and people's opinions towards the event has made me realise that professionals and punters in horse racing now have to unite to defend the sport that they love.

Every time I flicker through an article on the deaths of Gold Cup champion Synchronised and According To Pete, I am faced with angry people who know nothing about the sport, claiming that horse racing is cruel and unnecessary.

Photo by Meteorshoweryn (Creative Commons) from Flickr

As a person who has loved and admired the sport from an early age, I believe that now is the best and most important time for jockeys, trainers and owners to unite and defend their decisions that are made in horse racing.

Putting down a horse is a sad thing to happen but sometimes it is necessary: if those who work in the sport can understand the risk (i.e trainers and owners) then why can't other people?

Another absurd idea is to ban The Grand National. The event is the biggest jump race in Europe as the prize money is near £1 million.

Banning the race will therefore put people out of a job and Aintree, as well as Great Britian, will lose its status of being the host of a huge sporting event.

The horses who run in The Grand National spend months enduring training that their owners specifically set.

They are therefore prepared for the four mile race and are not thrown into the challenge without the training that is required.

Yes, I agree that it is upsetting when horses have to be put down as a result of a fractured leg or a broken shoulder but it is the kindest thing to do.

During a race, if a horse does fall and fracture its leg, it has so much adrenaline pumping through its body it cannot feel the pain.

As the fracture cannot be fixed and before the horse can feel the agonising pain, it is put down, a decision that trainers and owners are sometimes faced with.

But then again, they understand the risk and I hate the thought of Synchronised and According To Pete's deaths constantly overshadowing the closest finish ever witnessed.

So here's to a fantastic win by Neptune Collonges - a fantastic horse that has always been living in his stablemates' shadows - Kauto Star and Denman - but has now deservedly won the biggest race of them all.