Racing Tips

The Saturday Tipping Competition

2012-02-10T15:46:00.004Z

What's Your Selection?

The folks down at OLBG have completely overhauled their tipster competition with some impressive results. They now offer the widest range of sports event to tip on and more markets than any other tips

FREE TO JOIN

A big welcome to Jackhulk our latest follower.

First Season Sires for 2012: Like Father Like Son?

2012-02-10T11:32:00.018Z

et al

British 2yo Racing have a great website with a mine of information, and well worth a look. With the new Flat turf season on the horizon, my mind has turned to the first season sires. To be considered a hot property from a breeding perspective it is vital the first crop make an impact with precocious juveniles, specifically, winners. This article will feature a small selection of the more expensive sires with regard to stud fees and detailing the sires two-year-old racing summary.

Duke Of Marmalade

This son of Danehill is located at Coolmore Stud, Ireland, with a fee of €20,000. As a juvenile he won one of his three starts in a 7f maiden at the Curragh in June having been placed in a similar event earlier that month. One later run when placed second, as the 11/4f, in the 7f Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood in July behind Strategic Prince. He has been quite busy at stud siring 37 colts and 33 fillies with a median price of 57,471gns & 32,841, respectively. The highest priced colt fetched 340,000gns.

$300,000 for Duke of Marmalade Colt
(12th January 2012) Read Article Here

Duke Of Marmalades all the rage at Tatts with prices up to 340,000gns
(8th October 2011) Read Article Here

Henry The Navigator

A son of Kingmambo, this ex Aiden O'Brien representative, is located at Coolmore's Stud in the US. He has a fee of $35,000. As a juvenile won two of his four starts in a 7f maiden in May at Gowran Park followed by the 6f Group Coventry Stakes from Swiss Franc. Placed later in the 6f Group 1 Phoenix Stakes and then third in the 7f Group 2 Futurity Stakes behind New Approach and Curtain Call. Just 4 colts and 8 fillies have been sold at major European sale fetching a median price of 97,500gns (c) and 36,946gns (f) respectively. The bulk of the sales being made in the US (34) with a total US median price of 42,735gns.

$175,000 for Henrythenavigator Colt
(31st January 2012) Read Article Here

$625,000 for Henrythenavigator Colt
(13th September 2011) Read Article Here

Subscribe to Coolmore Newsletter

New Approach
A son of the respected Galileo, this sire is held at Dalham Hall (Darley) with a fee of £22,500. As a two-year-old, Won all of his five starts as a juvenile, all over 7f, beginning with a maiden in July and a Group 3 event later that month. Followed up by winning an Irish Group 2 and then the Group 1 National Stakes from Rio De La Plata. Final run that year when successful in the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes from Fast Company and Raven's Pass. His offspring has proven popular at European sales with 21 colts featuring an average price of 140,821gns, while 13 fillies have an average of 134,167gns. The highest priced colt cost 500,000gns.

Brisk trade continues at Tattersalls’ Foal Sale Read Article Here

Raven's Pass
A popular son of Elusive Quality, formerly trained by John Gosden, he is held at Kildangan Stud (Darley) with a fee of €22,500. Ran four times as a juvenile for three wins. Withdrawn from his intended Newbury debut because of fractious behaviour. Made his race debut after that in a 7f maiden at Yarmouth in July as the 20/1 stable third string ridden by his regular work rider, who rarely rode in races. Won a 7f Listed event later that month and the 7f Group 3 Solario Stakes in September. Final run that year when third in the Dewhurst Stakes behind New Approach. Of 7 colts sold in Europe, they achieved an average of 132,323gns, while 6 fillies made an average of 127,884gns. The highest priced colt cost 260,000gns. Of 14 juveniles sold in the US they made a median price of 88,523gns.

Raven’s ready to soar Read Article Here

Request a brochure from Darley

If you had more money than you knew what to do with, perhaps this next juvenile would empty your pockets. Not surprising it is a Galileo.

Galileo ex Brigid - 1,700,00gns.
Filly purchased for N. Bizakov, a Kazakhstani
who has also bought Hesmonds Stud.
Sibling to Group 1 winners
Listen & Sequoyah along with a 2007
yearling filly by Sadler's Wells
who cost 2.5M guineas & never ran.

For more details take a look at British 2yo Racing.

HCE GOLD 2012

2012-02-09T22:07:00.001Z

'' I know what you are thinking? Another tipping service proclaiming to do this, that and the other. But don't they all fail to live up to the rhetoric?''

CODspot: Looking back on a life changing 2011

2012-02-09T17:03:00.000Z

Nick Evans

I was lucky enough to bump into Nicky Evans on Twitter and sure his talents as a professional poker player will be of interest to our readers. Here is a review of what he called ''A Life Changing 2011''. Please take a moment to visit his website and follow him on Twitter.

Like most, i have been inspired by the turn of a new year to get a little more productive. 2011 was a huge year for me both on and off the felt but I feel like I let myself down in certain areas. I truly believe that I could have put more time into studying poker but my mind was really preoccupied throughout the year.

At the turn of the year my mother was diagnosed with cancer and quite honestly I don’t really remember my parents telling me as it all kind of blurred over. It’s crazy how the human brain has ways of dealing with certain scenarios but mine completely shut down for a while. She courageously won her battle midway through the year and it’s only now when I look back Ii realize how depressed and run down I became. Not only was I moody, unmotivated and generally terrible company but I also lost focus on being there for others that needed my support throughout the troubling times. I didn’t know how to cope with such a situation but it is how we overcome adversity that makes us stronger individuals and now I have a whole new perspective on life. Luckily I had great support from a few close friends and my girlfriend Barbara. They really helped me stay positive throughout the whole ordeal and I will be eternally grateful to all of them. The day she was given the "all clear" I just remember breaking down, it was a huge relief to know she was clear of the terrible illness. I have a completely new found sympathy for anyone dealing with sick family members. I am going to make it a major priority of mine to committing some of my time and money helping people that are put in similar situations to what my family went through.

Midway through June I signed my deal with Lock Poker to become a Lock Elite Pro and I couldn’t be happier with how that has worked out. The Lock team is awesome! Each and every member of the staff/pro team are really great people and it’s an honour to work with them. Being an MTT grinder for the past 4 years I have started to make the transition into other game formats. I have been grinding 200nl, 6 max turbo sit n goes and heads up super turbos. I’m enjoying learning how to adapt and I feel like it’s really helping my mtt game as well.

On August the 13th I finally plucked up the courage to ask my girlfriend to marry me. Although I was 99.999% sure she would say "yes" I have to admit it was by far the most nervous moment of my life. We have been together for 6 years and I would have asked her earlier but I wanted to get a little more established before I proposed as she has a very old school Italian family and I wanted to show I could provide for her even though she has an awesome job already. After signing my deal I decided it was the right time to go hunting for the diamond and a few weeks later I was ready. Unfortunately she said "No" and now I’m single...... "Psyche out" she said "yes" and now we are engaged to get married either at the end of this year or the beginning of next year.

In October the Lock team all met up for a 3 day team building vacation in a private castle just outside of Lyon, France in a town called Beaujolais (full of vineyards). Those 3 days were life changing! I met some great people and we did a few things I couldn’t have dreamt of doing a few years back. Anybody that’s been on a team building exercise will tell you that it’s awkward at first. I personally only knew 1 person heading into the castle but it wasn’t awkward at all and after those 3 days I can honestly say I have another 40-50 close friends. I pushed myself to do every team building exercise even if I was hung-over, still drunk or sleep deprived and I loved it. We went on wine tours, hot air ballooning, archery, little picnics and sampled some of the finest foods you will ever see. Like I previously stated it was amazing and I can’t wait to hang out with all of the lock peeps again.

Now I’m back in Canada and I’m on lockdown. I’m putting in some serious hours and I’m determined to make 2012 my biggest year on the felt. I have crushed my UFC and NFL sports betting lately which has covered for my 4k downswing in mtt's on lock since moving over to the site. I am winning 2.5k in heads up sit n goes and I’m breaking even in all other games. When you factor in my rakeback I’m still winning at a really good rate but it would be nice to convert some of the mtt shots I keep getting. I have been very deep in a few huge tournaments lately and I’ve just failed to capitalize. A few mistakes and a little bit of run bad haven’t helped but 2012 is a clean slate and I’m really enthusiastic.

Here are my goals for 2012:

Buy a house
Get physically fit
Put in a deep run in a live tournament
Start a series of Video Blogs
Make sure I enjoy myself and not stress too much
Do more charity fundraising!
GET MARRIED!!!

So on reflection I have to admit that starting 2011 I was in the worst place I have ever been emotionally and gladly for me 2011 went above and beyond all of my wildest expectations. Like I previously stated its how we overcome adversity that defines us and makes us stronger. With a new look on life I am in a very happy place mentally. I need to concentrate on putting in the hours online, getting fit and enjoying myself over the next few months before the WSOP!

Learn more about Nicky Evan.

His Blog

Richard Fahey 2YO 2012

2012-02-09T13:04:00.002Z

Bayan Kasirga & Pip

(2yo filly by Aussie Rules)

10th Jan 2012

(Click photo to see all 2yo for stable)

All this information & more can be found at HCE's Trainer Website Directory

HCE Humour

2012-02-09T08:57:00.000Z

Paul Cole Blog Update: Chilly start to February

2012-02-08T16:22:00.000Z

As per usual, the horses started cantering on February the 1st. The two year olds have done particularly well during the winter. We have bought a more precocious bunch this year with more two year old types. Our only All Weather runner at present is Circumvent, whose target is the Winter Derby. Although he won last year, he was permanently badly drawn, including last time at Lingfield. We are slightly down on numbers this year, we will have 40-50 in training.

Swingland & Gifted Girl have done well during the winter. Both are knocking on the door to be good fillies this year. One of our nicest three year olds, Stormbound, who did not run last year for various reasons is in great form and one to keep an eye on, he may run in the Wood Ditton.

Sovereign Power is shaping up well, he is half brother to Overpowered (one of our nicest two year olds last year) there is a 50% share remaining in him.

It has been as low as -15 degrees here, I was riding out the other day after my holiday and it was -13 degrees, big drop from 34 degrees! But there is nothing better in life than riding out on a sunny, crisp morning and looking forward to the season ahead.

Best Blog Supporters

2012-02-08T12:52:00.002Z

I'll Have One Of Those...

Just a quick note. I have updated the majority/live blog/website link exchanges to our homepage so they have a more public profile. Please, if you notice you are missing from this list, then email/leave a comment and it will be updated quick smart.

Thanks for your support.

First Season Sires for 2012

2012-02-08T11:29:00.001Z

If you enjoy your two-year-old horse racing, then you may well have heard of British 2yo Racing website. It is absolutely jam packed with data. Of particular importance to all those breeding fans are the first season sires for 2012. As a taster here is a favourite of mine.

Raven's Pass

Ran four times as a juvenile for three wins. Withdrawn from his intended Newbury debut because of fractious behaviour. Made his race debut after that in a 7f maiden at Yarmouth in July as the 20/1 stable third string ridden by his regular work rider, who rarely rode in races. Won a 7f Listed event later that month and the 7f Group 3 Solario Stakes in September. Final run that year when third in the Dewhurst Stakes behind New Approach.

To learn about the best of this year's first season sires click the British 2yo Racing icon

Managed Risk

2012-02-08T09:46:00.004Z

Managed Risk

You never know who you'll meet within this blogging community of ours. It's true to say that most bloggers are based within the UK. However, looking down my ''Best Blog Supporters'' there is one name which stands out from the crowd - Managed Risk. To coin a phrase, Jake comes from over the pond. This American racing fan will need little introduction to many a reader because he always makes time to leave a comment - a cheery word - and insight about his journey as an investor. Formally a founder of popular blog The Bank Builder, his recent enterprise has been impressive. What captures my attention is Jake's determination to convey his ongoing battle to keep a disciplined, patient, insightful approach. As he says:

''Think profit. Think differently.Think investment, not gambling. Think smart. The right horse in the right race''.

His story is a fight as strenuous as the horse which thunders towards the line. Whether you are a fan of American horse racing or not, take a moment to review Managed Risk.

(Recent posts may be read by clicking on the photographs, above).

Free Tips

2012-02-07T18:03:00.003Z

Gambling Psychology

As a horse racing fan, you may have heard of High Class Equine. Our blog has achieved great success with related articles published in the Weekender & Racing Ahead magazine. In fact, our daily race previews, results & two-year-old racing news make us a favourite read across the board. HCE strives to give our readers that little bit more and this great offer is no exception. For the first time, HCE Gold Tips are FREE. Take advantage of this insightful knowledge, being assured this data is unique to our website - reason why we have such a dedicated following.

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Daily race previews available at HCE Blog. Follow us on Twitter @flatracing

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Why pay for tips when you can have them for free?

Winner

Our HCE Regular Tips are great but if you want the very best FREE selections then read on...

''High Class Equine has established itself as a leader in two-year-old horse racing. Being featured in the Weekender & Racing Ahead publication on numerous occasions we are experts within our field. Our cutting-edge analysis provides tips for English Turf & All-Weather racing.''

This is your gateway to our very special tips: HCE Gold or simply follow the instructions below.

How do I receive my HCE Gold Tips?

HCE GOLD TIPS

It's simple!

All you have to do receive our best tips is to open an account with one of the companies advertised and make a deposit of at least £10 . Simply email hcegoldtips@yahoo.co.uk with the word GOLD in the subject line of your email. (Please do not email about existing accounts as they do not qualify for our premium tips). Please detail the following information:

The date/time of the newly opened account
The company (e.g. Blue Square, Bet365, Betfred, Betfair...)
How much you deposited

This information is used simply to identify new account holders to allow smooth process in receiving your tips. Unless this information is forwarded in your email you will not be given access to HCE Gold Tips Website. (Please be aware that no tips will be given until the start of the new Flat Turf Season 2012 & that this is an annual membership which concludes on 1st January 2013).

Places Available: Limited

Or Buy HCE Gold Annual Membership (Special offer) £24.99

The Best Unraced Horses For Our Loyal Readers

2012-02-07T10:55:00.002Z

The mysterious dark horse.

We could be talking Lloyd's Bank, Dick Francis or a million and one racing websites.

However, these dark horses are 100% High Class Equine.

Many of our regulars know we write for Racing Ahead magazine, a monthly publication. It's a chance to illustrate our expertise within two-year-old horse racing to a wider audience. This page is an extension of those type of juveniles but free to those who visit our little blog.

So what makes these Dark Horse so interesting? Well, it wouldn't be fitting to tell the story behind their publication on this page. Being of a secretive nature. However, be assured this is no haven for odds on backers or equine fodder enjoyed by TV pundits and their classic 'one to put in your notebook'. These are truly hidden gems. A few of these juveniles may be given as tips for HCE Regular/Elite. But it is unlikely because these will not feature the highest win rate. However, each deserve their moment in the spot light rather than a passing mention on a blog post. They have something to say which sets them apart from the norm. Don't expect every selection to win. It doesn't work like that. The aim is for a profit this season and hopefully strike gold with a couple of fancy prices.

Welcome to our Dark Horses. All 3yo (worthy of note for the new Flat season)

Red Corvette (Michael Bell)

This bay filly is yet to race and unlikely to be seen until a three-year-old but a very exciting prospect. Sired by Galileo out of Red Evie who won nine from fifteen starts, a multiple group winner & twice Group 1 victor when trained by Bell. With total prize winning of just under £400,000 and official rating of 115 she was a hugely successful/popular racehorse. This youngster is owned by Magnier, Smith & Tabor. She was given a Fillies' Mile (Group 1) entry, which gives hope she will take after her mare.

Dick Bos (Peter Chapple-Hyam)

This chestnut colt is a son of Dutch Art out of the winning mare Cosmic Countess. A seventh foal, he cost £48,000. Although a relatively cheap purchase, this juvenile is held in high regard by the stable and owned by The Comic Strip Heroes who have been very successful with a number of talented juveniles over the years. This colt is yet to make his debut but must have suffered a setback because he has been entered for a couple of Stakes races throughout his 2yo season and also considered for a Group race. The stable's juveniles have a fair strike rate on debut and although he will be kept for a three-year-old campaign it would be no surprise to see Dick Bos win early in his career.

Daliance (Tom Dascombe)

This son of Dalakhani has may have slipped under the radar because he made his debut at Clairefontaine, France, at the beginning of August. He finished a creditable 5th, staying on at the finish, beaten three lengths, after being hampered. A 120,000euro purchase, he is one of few juveniles to be entered at Group level for the stable, which is a positive sign that he will be winning sooner rather than later. With stamina-packed breeding he will appreciate a trip much greater than the 7f he faced on debut. It is possible Dascombe may look for an easy win on the AW over the winter.

Gingernut (John Gosden)

Few trainers compare to the talents of John Gosden. Gingernut is yet to make his debut but could be worthy of your consideration. This son of Galileo is a home bred by Normandie Stud out of the Listed-winning mare Foodbroker Fancy. This February-born colt is likely to appreciate a test of stamina, so it's not surprising he has been slow to come to hand. However, he is rated by the stable and should make into a decent three-year-old prospect.

Nine Realms (William Haggis)

This 100,000gns yearling is closely related to high-class winner Aqlaam, the dam unraced but a half-sister to classy stayer Persian Punch. This bay colt was one of a select few juveniles to be entered at Group class from a stable that knows a good horse. In addition, Vow, a daughter of Motivator is owned by Highclere Thoroughbreds Racing and at one time considered for the Fillies' Mile (Group 1).

Samoan (Brian Meehan)

Brian Meehan & the Sangster family have a reputation for delivering top-class horses. This youngster is part owned by Mrs J Magnier and a potentially smart horse. Not the most expensive breeze-up purchase (vendor) at 45,000gns, this bay colt by DanehillSwettenham Stud and is held in some regard by connections. He was considered for a couple of Group races in the latter part of the season but is yet to make his debut and will be kept for a three-year-old campaign.

Saunta (David Simcock)

This is one horse that will be wining at three-years-old. A bay filly by Invincible Spirit out of the useful 5f winning mare Baize, she cost 95,000gns as a yearling. Her trainer isn't one to throw around fancy entries for the fun of it and after being entered for a couple of Stakes races, once holding an engagement for the Lowther (Group 2), it looks as thought she must have been close to making her debut but probably suffered a minor setback. Saunta is well regarded in the stable and one for the notebook.

Valbchek (Jeremy Noseda)

Few trainers have a wealth of owners such as Jeremy Noseda. A name that has been connected with talented two-year-olds across the seasons. This year alone Roman Soldier, Talwar, Regal Realm & Harvard N Yale have shown class. This bay colt by Acclamation coast 110,000gns as a yearling and owned by Richard Keen & Paul Smith. This youngster was entered for three Group races throughout his first season - including the Gimcrack (Group 2) - but never made the race track. As far as fancy engagements go he looked one of the better juveniles in the yard and should win in his three-year-old career.

Gold Edition (Jeremy Noseda)

This American-bred son of Mr Greeley is another of Noseda's juvenile prospects which is likely to make its debut at three. This chestnut colt was entered in the early declaration stages of the Phoenix Park Stake (Group 1), Gimcrack Stakes (Group 2) & at least one more prestigious race so must have been showing a touch of class on the gallops.

Shada (Sir Michael Stoute)

It's not all about debutantes. This chestnut filly went off favourite for a decent Newmarket maiden towards the end of August. This daughter of Galileo finished third in a tantalising performance. By all account that was a competitive race because the winner has gone on to Group 1 success, the second, Diala, is held in high regard by William Haggis (with intentions of going for the 1,000gns), while the sixth, Bana Wu ran a superb race in the Rockfel Stakes (Group 2). Shada looks a certain future winner on that form alone - it could well be Listed class for starters. This juvenile cost 290,000gns as a yearling, a full sister to a Group winner. The dam was raced in France. Sir Michael Stoute had this filly entered for the Fillies' Mile (Group 1) and a horse that could well hit the heights at three.

Alzahra (Roger Varian)

Following in the footsteps of his talented mentor was never going to be an easy challenge but this reserved trainer has done connections proud. Alzahra is one of few talked-about fillies not to have made a racecourse appearance but an interesting candidate for a belated 2yo campaign or more likely a three-year-old career. This bay filly - a daughter of Exceed And Excel - was one of two juveniles entered for the Lowther (Group 2). The dam was a 5f winner, who herself was a half-sister to Classic-winning Attraction (winner of ten of her fifteen races). On breeding, this youngster could well start her career at 5/6f and must - as far as the lofty entries indicate - have a level of ability.

All That Rules (Sir Henry Cecil) (Raced Nov 2011)

Andrew Tinkler has been a prominent supporter of horse racing in the last few years and it will no doubt be a proud moment to see this son of Galileo make his debut for such a gifted trainer. Probably not one of the leading lights but a horse that will be seen next season and worthy of respect.

Great Namoos (Brian Meehan)

If a talented dam makes for a good horse then this bay colt is a winner. This son of Dansili is out of the Queen Mary (Group 2) & Lowther (Group 2) winner Flashy Wings, who was trained by Mick Channon. It is perhaps surprising that Jaber Abdulla has sent this juvenile to Meehan. However, this could be a talented prospect. He has been entered for a Group race this season but yet to make it to the course and worth noting in his three-year-old campaign.

Junior Diary (Brian Meehan)

This American-bred filly is a daughter of Mr Greeley out of the winning mare Cross Channel who was trained by Ed Dunlop, and similarly bred by Cliveden Stud. Her owner Mrs Lucinda Freedman done well with another youngster in Meehan's care, Brevity. This January foal is yet to make her race course bow but may be a capable sort considering connections gave this chestnut a Fillies' Mile (Grouyp 1) entry.

It's All Change...

2012-02-07T08:12:00.003Z

HCE has always been a busy blog compared to many in our community. Always trying new themes, topics & our sprinkling of humour. However, as the start of the new Flat season draws closer you will notice a few changes. We are following the maxim: less is more. Our format will be much simpler with a view to highlighting:

Daily Race Comment
The Evening HCE Regular Tip Selection
The Saturday Tipping Competition
The Horse Trainer Website Directory
Following The Dream: Wildcard Racing 2yo Somethingboutmary
British 2yo Racing
Win Big With HCE Accumulator
HCE Free Horse Racing Tips: Regular/Gold
Our Best Blog Supporters
Advertising

HCE: Dedicated to two-year-old horse racing.

Steady Eddie's Free Horse Racing Tips

2012-02-06T22:12:00.000Z

Betting Odds: You Call That Value?

2012-02-06T12:45:00.006Z

I'm Not A Gambler, But I love A Good Smoke

Gambling, it's a dirty word. A word that few people imagine relates to them. It always surprises me why so many people have a ''I don't gamble mentality'' when each and every beat of their heart tells me different. In essence, every aspect of your life could be given a price to chance. So, you don't want to gamble with your money, but those 20 cigs a day ''Well, that don't change anythink (sic)''. Everything can be seen as a gamble. Life's a gamble. Win, lose or (that bloody) draw.

I'm sure your insurance company knows the odds much better than you. So what tickles your fancy as a bet? Snow on Xmas day? Reckon your football team is going to score the next goal? But how far are you willing to bet? Okay, unlike the cig' smoker, I'm not asking you to put your life on the line. However, if you had a nigh on ''certainty'' what odds would you take? When placing a bet, do you find you stick to backing at certain odds? Are you an out-and-out favourite's man? Perhaps you just bet on long shots? Each to his own. If it works for you, then it would take an idiot to say you were wrong. But where do you draw the line? Would you dare back at 1/10f? 1/20f?

Give your views on this fascinating topic.

Brocklesby Stars

2012-02-06T10:49:00.005Z

Hearts Of Fire: Greatest Brocklesby Winner?

With the new Flat turf season on the horizon, it is time to reminisce all of those past early-season two-year-olds which not only showed precocity but outstanding, gritty, talent. Each week, we will highlight one of the best Brocklesby Stakes winners to acknowledge this race of merit. This race is held annually at Doncaster's William Hill Lincoln Day Meeting (mid/late March).

Hearts Of Fire

Trainer: Pat Eddery
Owner: Pat Eddery Racing

Sire: Firebreak (7.5f) Dam: Alexander Ballet Dam's sire: Mind Games (6.4f)

A 6,000gns F, £13,000 Y, 550,000gns Nkt Oct 2010; 2nd living foal; dam 5f winner (stayed 6f), half-sister to useful 5f/6f winner Day By Day out of 6f winning half-sister to US Grade 1 1m2f winner Spanish Fern, family of Al Bahathri (dam of Haafhd).

On the 28th March 2009 Hearts Of Fire won the Brocklesby Stakes by over two lengths at odds of 12/1. This was a rare two-year-old debutante winner for Pat Eddery, ridden by his brother, Paul.

This 6000gns foal was next seen in a Conditions Stakes at Newmarket: a well backed second favourite, this son of Firebreak disappointed, finishing 4th. However, more promise was shown when runner-up on his next start at Beverley, once again over the minimum trip. On the 16th June Hearts Of Fire competed at Royal Ascot in the Windsor Castle Stakes Listed race over 5f, running on well to take 5th.

Eddery clearly had high expectations of his rising star when second at Newbury in a Listed event in soft ground over 6f. From here, the stable would attempt a bold autumn campaign racing at Deauville, Baden-baden & San siro.

On the 16th August Hearts On Fire won the Prix Francios Boutin (Listed race) at Deauville, France, by more than five lengths. This was his first run over 7f.

In September, the Zukunfts-Rennen (Group 3) in Baden-baden, Germany, saw Eddery’s juveniles start at odds on, finishing strongly to win with authority, ridden by Olivier Peslier. Crowning a truly amazing two-year-old season, Pat Eddery Racing [owners] struck gold - winning the Gran Criterium (Group 1) by a neck over one mile in testing conditions. In three races connections won almost a quarter of a million pounds.

As a three-year-old, Hearts Of Fire was raced over a mile at the highest level. Making his return in the 2,000 Guineas (Group 1) at Newmarket, a 40/1 shot, this Classic race proved a disappointment, weakening 2f out.

In June, connections returned to Royal Ascot to compete in the St James’ Palace Stakes (Group 1), finishing a creditable 3rd, and a shade unlucky finding trouble in running.

Chantilly, France, was the next port of call in July contesting the Prix Jean Prat (Group 1). Fancied at 5/1, Olivier Peslier played a waiting game finishing 4th behind easy winner Dick Turpin.

His penultimate race was back in the UK, dropping in class for the Sovereign Stakes (Group 3). Starting favourite, to finish 5th may have been a disappointment, but beaten by less than two lengths was probably his mark.

Hearts Of Fire ran his final three-year-old race at Ascot in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (Group 1),finishing unplaced.

In a sparkling British career consisting of 13 races, he won four times and was placed on a further three occasions winning more than £300,000 in total prize money. At best this colt held an official rating of 118 and is probably the most successful winner of the Brocklesby Stakes to date. Without doubt he was a very classy two-year-old, a highlight winning the Gran Criterium (Group 1)

The icing on the cake came when Hearts Of Fire was sold at the 2010 Newmarket October sales for 550,000gns.

As a four-year-old, he resumed a racing career overseas, trained by Ibrahaim Al Malki, running at Meydan (UAE) over 8/9f in Group 2 class, showing he still has a high level of ability with creditable performances.

Lucky Dip (New Blog?)

2012-02-05T17:32:00.001Z

Funny Pictures: This Is Wheelly Good Fun

2012-02-05T10:16:00.002Z

CLICK PHOTO FOR MORE FUNNY PICTURES

PLUS

Cat Art Critic
Bye Bye Bear
Don't Do This With Your Ball

Nothing To Say...(Except)

2012-02-05T09:53:00.000Z

Horse Racing - Articles - Humour

Okay It's Snowing...But Just Think About Your Free Day's Racing Come April

2012-02-04T21:07:00.009Z

Brighton (in the sun)

As we exclaim at HCE: ''Who says you don't get something for nothing?'' Well, it isn't just The Saturday Tipping Competition which makes a punter's day, HCE Gold Tips...and much much more. The snow may be laying thick on the ground, but my thoughts are leaping towards spring time and a day's racing where my betting slip hasn't frozen to my fingers. Here is an offer to warm the heart of every Flat racing fan:

Brighton: Come Evening Racing for Free!

Thu, 26 April, 2012

First Race: 4.55 pm Last Race: 8.00 pm

Race Type: Flat
Number Of Races: 7
Going: TBC
Going Stick: TBC
Price Band: Standard Pricing
Weather: TBC

We open the 2012 racing season with a superb offer of free admission to the Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure if you book in advance (a maximum of four tickets per booking).

On the day the gates will open from 3pm, with tickets available on the evening for £15 for the Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure and £20 for the Premier Enclosure. There will be a big screen at this fixture to enhance your viewing of the live racing action.

Parking is free in the main public car park and we operate a courtesy bus from Brighton Station to the course with return journeys after racing.

Children aged 15 and under are admitted free of charge with an adult. There are great value hospitality packages available - for further information, please telephone Judy Welsh on 01273 603580.

This is also a charity race meeting in association with Sussex Crimestoppers, dedicated to fighting crime across the county. The international best selling crime thriller novelist Peter James, a patron of Sussex Crimestoppers, will be in attendance.

Also,

Betfair Lambourn Open Day

Good Friday - 6th April 2012

The open day is a unique opportunity to see the horses in the training establishments throughout the Lambourn Valley. Last year over 30 trainers opened their yards to the public and over 10,000 people took the opportunity to meet the horses, the trainers and to really see first hand the Lambourn racing industry. Many yards have special exhibits and some demonstrations including horses using hydrotherapy pools. Kingwood Stud opened its doors and thousands of visitors enjoyed learning about horse breeding at one of the countries top establishments.

In the afternoon the massive events field with its central arena opens with a full programme of equine and country related shows and demonstrations of country skills. Trade stands offer all manner of goods and services generally connected to country pursuits. Children's activities are also available and there are many different places where food is available.

General enquiries: openday@lambourn.info

Gambling Psychology Can Give You An Edge (The Articles)

2012-02-04T17:42:00.001Z

Read our Gambling Psychology articles:

A Contrasting Point On Gambling Psychology

I'm Having The Strangest Feeling

I Followed That Horse Off A Cliff

The Saturday Tipping Competition: It's Captain Heathcliffe Sitting On The Croc Of The Bay

2012-02-03T17:13:00.016Z

What's Your Selection?

Tipster selections:

12:55 Lingfield - Crocodile Bay 2pt w (Capt Heathcliffe)1st 13pts

2:30 Lingfield - Chjimes 2pt w (Me Old Mum)4th

2:30 Lingfield - Slatey Hen 2pt w (Uncle Keith)5th

2:40 Wolverhampton - Bawaadi 2pt w (Betmanmike)4th

3:00 Lingfield - Prince Of Burma 2pt w (Seanos1)7th

3:00 Lingfield - Numeral 2pt w (Danny)4th

3:35 Lingfield - Layline 2pt w (Neil)1st 9pts

3:35 Lingfield - Cashelgar 2pt w Jodonovan 7th

4:05 Lingfield - Falcon's Reign 2pt w (Longbow)2nd

4:05 Lingfield - Falcon's Reign 2pt w (HCE)2nd

4:05 Lingfield - Palmyra 2pt w (Bobby Talk)1st 11pts

4:15 Wolverhampton - Country Road 2pt w (Patient Speculation)

4:35 Lingfield - Jennifer J 2pt w (Inittowinit)4th

4:35 Lingfield - Burnhope 2pt w (Gareth) 1st 8pts

5:15 Wolverhampton - Vigilance 2pt w (Tecbet)

5:15 Wolverhampton - McCool Bananas 2pt w (Blackbooks)

* (Abondoned)

It's Captain Heathcliffe Sitting On The Croc Of The Bay
The start of February's competition. After a campaign to gain more entrants - we had less! Four winners, with Captain Heathcliffe heading the leader board with 13pts. Bobby Talk took advantage of the big odds-on shot disappointing with Palmyra taking 11pts. Neil sits in third (9pts) after a very easy win on Layline. He was unfortunate - in some respects - as it was a 10/1 shot early. Gareth rounded off the day with a fine front-running performance by Burnhope would gave 8pts to start what should be a great months.

Thanks to all those who entered.

Leader board: February

In Search of the Outsider: The Significance of Trainers & Starting Price

2012-02-03T12:37:00.003Z

Winning Big On Debut

From what we have learned so far, it becomes apparent that finding an outsider with a lively chance of winning on debut needs a certain calibre of trainer. The problem with following the elite is that their juveniles are very much in the spotlight. As we have mentioned, their reputation precedes them to a point where many are under priced.

Few trainers, however capable, feature a level stakes profit with their debutantes. In fact, most would make truly poor bets from a blanket approach. Even looking at the individual rather than the general? To a certain extent this would be a pointless exercise. Why? Because it is a remote chance these two-year-old could win at speculative odds. It would simply dictate they have a slim chance of winning. For example, from just over 450 debutantes, how many two-year-old winners did Mick Channon train priced over 8/1? It was in single figures. Fair enough, a large number of his juveniles were fancied in the betting. But would that inspire you to wager? I wouldn’t be interested. It is surprising how difficult it is to win on debut – at any price. And don’t forget how many win against a field of debutantes. The statistics would no doubt plummet when racing against experience horses primed to run for their lives.

What we are searching for is this: not the biggest stables and certainly not the smallest who rarely train a two-year-old let alone a juvenile winner. What we need are those trainer who have plenty of ammunition but somehow slip under the radar. There are a number of interesting candidates.

One of the best candidates is Michael Dods. In my opinion, he is a talented trainer of two-year-old, especially on debut. He has excellent statistics with his debutantes, which, strangely, seem to have more chance of winning at speculative odds than when strongly fancied. However, the icing on the cake for his debutantes is when running on soft or heavy ground. I’m not sure if he goes for the type of horse with hooves the size of dinner plates but they often love testing conditions. If you see one of his juveniles priced 40/1, 50/1 or even 66/1 on debut, racing in terrible ground they make outstanding each way bets.

Now, I’m not saying all of them are going to win. Who would imagine they could! This article is simply to highlight which trainers can go well at speculative odds in the knowledge that you have a fighting chance.

My brother bets on many horses just because he likes their physical stature. In fact, he goes to the extreme of not really caring who trains them. He's had so many big priced winners it is quite astonishing. What I want to highlight from his success is that gigantic-priced horses fall into a niche area to prove victorious. It is all about looking in the right direction. That is the reason why some gamblers win and others lose. They have the skills to know that rich seam of gold is within reach while others are searching unforgiving grounds.

Make sure you read Part 3 (coming soon)

Pleased With My Shag Pile...After Fabreeeeezing My Arse Off

2012-02-03T11:07:00.006Z

Thank you, Helena

Frosty morning. It is like walking into a freezer. However, I'm pleased with how the shagpile looks after an arduous morning. At one point, the ball on the Dyson jammed. The suction on those beasts can be deadly to sleeping cats... Love the smell of that Fabreeze. A kind of a strawberry concoction...which had me floating on clouds for a moment or two. Heavenly.

I'm finding it difficult to be inspired by the non two-year-old racing. I was please to see that George, one of Clint's readers of the supreme Phoenix Racing joined HCE Gold. It's good to have you on board. A good bloke.

Today, I will be working on the second part of the article: In Search of the Outsider. I know Neil likes his stats and that has motivated me to write on that subject. I do appreciate reader feedback and comments. If not, I may as well live in a cave and every so often think that echo is someone trying to converse. I'll just ramble on.

You may have noticed that I've been spring cleaning, tidying-up the blog of clutter. Well, more of a polish with a spot of Pledge. Being quite vain, I like it to look attractive. We have a new style guru to help us move in the right direction. You can see a photo of Helena, who knows much more about being attractive in every sense of the word. The people you can bump into simply penning a blog. Quite amazing, hey. Trainer's emailing, top bloodstock agent phoning, work published by leading horse racing titles. It all makes for a brighter life. And, that's just the start... (No doubt, she will want paying at some point.)

I'm looking forward to the Saturday Tipping Competition. However, I've been verbally abused. More liable than slander. Me Old Mum has emailed. Honestly, you are lucky she hasn't contacted you. I thought some of the language used by Clint was rather fruity. But we are talking big, ripe pumpkins with her. She has more venom than a snake. After failing to score on last month's competition she has decided it is my fault for allowing more tipsters. I told the old witch to clear off, so it remains to be seen if she sends a selection for tomorrow. I really don't need insults to start the day. My aim for this month? Win the prize money back! However, being a sporting gent (I can wear tweed as well as the next bloke, if forced). If you want to join the regulars, pick a few horses, win some cash and enjoy a laugh along the way - give it a go.

Funny Pictures: Best Bedroom Ever

2012-02-02T23:47:00.000Z

CLICK PHOTO FOR MORE FUNNY PICS