Author: James Dooley

Rachael Blackmore has taken the equestrian world by storm as her remarkable journey from promising young jockey to a trailblazing legend has drawn to a close. Her announcement of retirement marks the end of an era not just for her, but for the sport that she transformed. As the first female jockey to claim victory at both the Grand National and the Gold Cup, Rachael has reshaped the perceptions of what is possible in horse racing. Reflecting on a Groundbreaking Career In the days following her landmark announcement, racing enthusiasts and experts gathered on the latest episode of “The Front…

There’s a seismic shift happening in the betting world as The Lion In Winter claws its way back to the top of the Betfred Derby odds. Despite a stumble to sixth place in the recent Dante Stakes, this gallant competitor has been crowned once again by Paddy Power, Betfair, and Sky Bet as the favorite. The Comeback Kid The son of famed stallion Sea The Stars might have faltered in his return race after winter, but there’s a strong belief in the paddock and beyond that The Lion In Winter is just baying for another victory. On the post-race betting…

The thundering hooves of youth will line up at Angers on May 20, 2025, as the clock strikes 11:35 for the highly anticipated De Puycharic Stakes. This spirited race, tailored for 2-year-olds, covers a distance of 5 furlongs and 212 yards, all on the soft, giving turf. With nine eager runners ready to dance and dart across the course, Angers is set to be a showcase of juvenile promise and raw athletic potential. As these young horses prepare to burst down the stretch, there’s a whisper in the air of tradition clashing with new blood, as trainers meticulously polish potential…

Barbara Kennedy, a seasoned name in horse racing circles, celebrated her first double victory on New Zealand turf at Ellerslie. Warren Kennedy, her husband and an experienced jockey, skillfully rode both triumphing horses, Matzden and Hero Of War, in consecutive events. This achievement marked a significant milestone in Barbara’s career, showcasing her adept training capabilities and her husband’s riding expertise.In the spotlight was Matzden, competing in the highly anticipated Auckland Co-Op Taxis 1400. Despite the daunting obstacle of being drawn wide, this resilient gelding galloped with heart. On a much-improved track compared to the thick, challenging conditions faced at Pukekohe,…

Under the unpredictable English sky, the thunder of hooves will once again grace the ancient grounds of Chester and Huntingdon. As we prepare for Thursday’s highly anticipated horse racing fixtures, our seasoned expert delves into the form and potential of contenders, crafting insights drawn from decades in the industry. With tips poised to guide both seasoned enthusiasts and new fans, we turn our attention to three pivotal races.Chester 2:35 – Mount Kilimanjaro Takes on the FieldMount Kilimanjaro, priced at 15/8, emerges as a promising choice at Chester’s 2.35 pm race. His victory in the prestigious Arqana Series at Longchamp last…

In the heart of the horse racing world, Charlie Huggins, with an astute eye honed over decades, set his focus on Chester and Huntingdon for a day packed with racing thrills on May 8th. Known for his practical insights into racing, Huggins combines his seasoned experience with a flair for vivid description to provide nuanced tips for the day’s events. Illinois Shines at Chester The spotlight at Chester is firmly on Illinois, a talented equine trained by the distinguished Aidan O’Brien. Having claimed victory in two recent races at Chester, O’Brien confidently fields Illinois for the Group 3 contest scheduled…

At major horse racing gatherings in Newmarket, Ascot, and Sandown, illuminating performances were observed that deserve attention. Among these was the engaging run by Chantilly Lace at the One Thousand Guineas. Despite her inexperience, she put on a commendable show, finishing fifth. Chantilly Lace’s physique suggests she has significant potential and, with further development, she could emerge victorious in races at a mile to a mile and a quarter, pending her ability to stay the distance as per her genealogy.In the same vein, Cinderella’s Dream captivated many by triumphing decisively in the Group 2 Dahlia Stakes at Newmarket. Previously finishing…

The Chester Vase Stakes, a prestigious stepping stone towards the Epsom Derby, saw an exhilarating finish as Lambourn clinched victory, carrying the hopes of trainer Aidan O’Brien to a triumphant win.Jockey Ryan Moore, aboard the 11-8 favorite, demonstrated superior tactical skill. Lambourn, initially lagging in third position, found his stride coming into the home stretch, showcasing a remarkable turn of foot. As the race reached its crescendo, Lambourn surged forward, ultimately winning by a convincing length and a half ahead of Lazy Griff, who gallantly took second place, while Convergent settled for third.Trainer Aidan O’Brien, a seasoned figure in the…

Aidan O’Brien celebrated a remarkable day at the Chester May Festival as his horses, Minnie Hauk and Lambourn, showcased the prowess expected from his training. Both horses clinched victories in their respective Epsom trials, proving Chester to be a fruitful ground for honing Derby winners. The stunning Chester course, with its idyllic May weather, set the perfect stage for these trial races. As racing enthusiasts gathered, there was palpable anticipation in the air. O’Brien, while not physically present, was represented by the Coolmore team, who were buoyant over Minnie Hauk’s performance in the Cheshire Oaks. Her display has now cemented…

Marine Nationale, with the odds of 2/1, showcased a commanding performance in clinching the William Hill Champion Chase at the Punchestown Festival. This spectacular win is yet another feather in the cap for this talented two-mile chaser.The race was filled with anticipation as Fact To File, a formidable contender and the favorite at 11/10, also lined up for the race. However, Fact To File faltered, which paved the way for Marine Nationale to seize the opportunity and dominate the track.Solness, who initially took the lead from Captain Guinness, found himself unable to break from the closely knit group. Marine Nationale,…