Review of the day

Well, I guess we were due a correction of some sort…

I’ve been riding a wave for the best part of a month now – but today, I definitely came back down to earth…

9 selections across 7 races – and not a winner amongst them L

In fairness though, the bare numbers don’t really tell the story…

For whatever reason (coincidence, I guess), pretty much every horse I tipped today managed to lose its ability to jump…

The tone was set with the first tip to run: Chestertern. At the very first fence, he jumped too big and landed steeply, seemingly unnerving himself.

He continued for a few more fences – but was pulled up before half way…

Scholastica managed to stumble early in her race as well – and another bad mistake before half way meant she too was always fighting a losing battle.

The jockey of Indian Outlook did well to maintain the partnership when he made a significant blunder in front of the stands; and it was similar story with Forest Walker, back over at Kempton.

The day of jumping errors was then completed, when Milord took a crashing fall at the fourth last hurdle, when still leading and seemingly going well enough…

5 horses – 5 race ending mistakes. It was as simple as that…

In the past few weeks, we have been bailed out by the speculative selections – but not today…

Alder Mairi was ridden like a proven stayer at Kempton (and she isn’t); Gambling Girl, settled in the hood at Leopardstown – but seemed to hate the ground; whilst American Spin ran like a horse in serious decline…

So 8 down, just the 1 to go…

And that one was Cause of Causes in the hyper competitive Paddy Power chase.

He jumped just fine – and travelled just fine – and looked likely to collect as he ranged up alongside Rockyaboya with 50 yards to go.

But he couldn’t get past – and was beaten by a short head.

Close, but no cigar L

A victory for him would have put the day in profit – but it wasn’t to be and instead we took our biggest loss in a good while…

But these things happen – particularly in NH racing, where the ability to negotiate obstacles quickly and safely, is absolutely key…

At least the Top Pick, Baile Anrai, managed to snatch a most unlikely looking victory in the shadows of the post…

And yet, despite all the drama surrounding the runs of the various TVB tips, the day is likely to be remembered by most of you, for a different reason…

The imperious Sprinter Sacre was pulled up sharply, by Barry Gerraghty after the 7^th fence, at Kempton.

There seems to be uncertainty over precisely what the problem was – a fibrillating heart seems the most likely cause.
Whatever though it’s not good.

The horse had looked unbeatable – but in a few strides, he looked vanquished.

Hopefully he will come back as good as ever – but there must be big doubts…

He has been a NH treasure – but today we saw what a fine line these equine athletes tread.

We have to treasure them whilst they are around – today reminded us of that…

TVB.