Author: James Dooley

In the world of UK horse racing, Sara Bradstock is setting the stage for her formidable charge, Mr Vango, a horse whose massive build and stamina might lead him to the Randox Grand National in 2025. This nine-year-old giant has already showcased his staying power, securing two wins this year over fences, and now his connections are dreaming big with sights set on one of the ultimate tests at Aintree. The journey for Mr Vango began with a modest £30,000 price tag after a commanding victory at a point-to-point race in Horseheath back in February 2022. Despite his size, early…

The world of horse racing never stands still, and on a brisk January day, the renowned Patrick Mullins shared his candid thoughts about two of his charges, Energumene and Kargese, after their recent outings.Energumene’s Challenge Against JonbonIn Saturday’s BetMGM Clarence House Chase at Ascot, Energumene, under Patrick Mullins’ watchful eye, faced the formidable Jonbon. This encounter ended with Nicky Henderson’s Jonbon taking a notable victory by six and a half lengths. A testament to Jonbon’s current peak form, this race left behind an impression of fleeting glory for Energumene, whose age and recent return to racing were seen as hurdles.Mullins,…

Nine gallant contenders stand ready to thunder down the storied Cheltenham track this Saturday as they vie for glory in the Betfair Cotswold Chase. Among the notable entries, we find last year’s champion, Capodanno, eager to reclaim his crown. Trained by the esteemed Willie Mullins, Capodanno has had a mixed season so far, having pulled up at the Betfair Chase in Haydock before finishing fourth at Tramore on New Year’s Day. The Irish challenge does not end there, with the likes of Delta Work and Gentlemansgame lending their might to this weekend’s field. Harnessing the power of Ireland’s racing prowess…

There’s a thunder of excitement under the bright British midsummer sky, with up to £1 million on offer for the connections of horses racing in the UK during 2025. The British Midsummer Bonus is calling on global contenders, especially those trained outside Europe, enticing them to compete in three of Britain’s prestigious Group One races.Ascot, Goodwood, and York, synonymous with equestrian prestige and history, are behind this groundbreaking incentive that could make one serendipitous horse connection a million pounds richer.High Stakes and High RewardsAt the heart of this initiative are the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot…

Lulamba made a thundering entrance on the British racing scene, living up to his favorite status by effortlessly securing victory in the BetMGM Juvenile Hurdle at Ascot. The well-regarded French import showcased his prowess, distancing himself by five lengths from runner-up Mondo Man, who also holds French prestige.Jockey Nico de Boinville masterfully guided Lulamba from the start, slotting the horse in a prime tracking position behind early leaders. Despite Mondo Man’s attempts to challenge three out, Lulamba danced on his toes, keeping his rhythm smooth and unbothered. The favorite surged ahead in the home straight, claiming victory by three and…

Saddle up for a thrilling Sunday as Mick Fitzgerald brings you his top picks for the ITV Racing schedule. With an eye for detail honed over decades in the racing world, Fitzgerald analyzes each race with a unique blend of practical insight and vivid storytelling. From the backstretch at Windsor to the fences at Fakenham, his tips are sure to intrigue both seasoned punters and casual fans. 13:55 Windsor – Harpers Brook Our racing day kicks off with a 2-mile dash at Windsor. Known for its fast pace, this race promises to test the endurance and agility of its contenders.…

The excitement of Sunday racing at Fakenham is palpable, featuring several compelling equine athletes. Stepping into the ring with impressive credentials, Lucy Wadham’s steeds are certainly ones to watch. Her record-breaking performance at this track is unparalleled, and it would be wise to keep a close eye on her entrants. Aviation, entered in the maiden hurdle, is among the stars of the day. Having shown remarkable promise at Warwick over hurdles and demonstrating a commendable staying power at 21 furlongs, this runner is set to make a mark.The course at Fakenham might present a slightly sharper test, as this race…

Ryan Tongue’s journey from serving tea at a racecourse to becoming a pivotal figure in horse racing management exemplifies the dynamic world of UK horse racing. With his roots firmly planted in Worcester Racecourse, Tongue began his career by attending to the needs of jockeys, including the legendary AP McCoy. It was here that his love for the sport blossomed under the spirited ambiance of the track, where horses thundered down the stretch and jockeys prepared for their adrenaline-fueled rides. An Unlikely Start in Racing Tongue’s time at Worcester wasn’t just about serving beverages; it was a time of learning…

Ile Atlantique, a versatile novice chaser under the watchful eyes of revered trainer Willie Mullins, is gearing up for potential appearances at the Dublin Racing Festival. This horse, owned by Tony Bloom, chairman of Brighton & Hove Albion, has shown a dazzling performance that captured public attention at Naas earlier this month.Naas was not just an ordinary win for Ile Atlantique; it was a spectacle that vividly showcased his jumping prowess. Competing in a Grade Two race over the minimum distance, he galloped past a field that included seasoned Grade One-winning hurdlers such as Firefox, who came in second, and…

From the quiet backstretch of Worcester Racecourse to the spotlight in Dubai, Ryan Tongue has taken a journey as thrilling as any horse galloping down the track. A young man who once poured steaming cups of tea for jockeys on chilly mornings is now one of the key figures in the management of racehorses competing on some of the world’s grandest stages. His story underscores the magic of horse racing, where dreams zip by as fast as hooves on the turf.The Humble BeginningsRyan Tongue’s path in the horse racing world began humbly. As a teenager, he worked in the weighing…