With the scent of fresh grass and the thunder of hooves echoing through the grandstands, Saturday’s ITV racing circuit gears up for another thrilling display. Our team, seasoned with decades of experience from pulling up sound to catching colts trotting on their toes, is here to provide insight into the contenders slated for the day’s events. Sandown’s Heart-Stopping Lineup As the day unfolds, Sandown serves as the backdrop to some captivating contests. In the day’s opening spectacle at 1.50, all eyes should rest upon Riskintheground. Despite being tested beyond his typical weight class, his performance at Cheltenham has been nothing…
Author: James Dooley
James Dooley
James Dooley is a UK entrepreneur who founded British Racecourses because of his love for horse racing. James Dooley Entrepreneur Who Owns Racehorses James owns 14 racehorses through Dooley Thoroughbreds, so he understands all aspects of horse racing, from wagering bets, and booking jockeys to sourcing the best horse racing trainers. James is the younger brother of David Dooley, who was voted the “Best Horse Racing Tipster in the UK”.
Mick Fitzgerald, with his deep well of racing knowledge, has shared his expert picks for a thrilling finale to the UK jumps season at Sandown. His selections are informed by a keen understanding of past performances and current race conditions, offering insights into each race on this important day. Starting Strong: HMS President The day kicks off with a promising race, the 2m Novice Handicap Hurdle at 13:20. Fitzgerald is placing his each-way bet on HMS President, trained by Alan King. Although not as accomplished over hurdles as on the flat, with a flat rating of 100 and having previously…
In the heart of the racing world, few stories capture the public imagination like that of Hewick, the Irish horse that defied odds and expectations. Purchased for a mere £800 as a two-year-old, this remarkable gelding has galloped into the limelight, promising excitement for fans anticipating his performance in the Grand National. The Rise of a Cult Hero Hewick first caught the attention of the horseracing community with his incredible win in the prestigious King George VI Chase in 2023. It was a spectacle many bettors and aficionados hadn’t wagered on, as the horse faced seasoned competitors on the British…
The anticipation is building for the 2025 Grand National, and a surprising computer prediction has set the horse racing community buzzing. Intense Raffles, a lesser-known contender at 12/1 odds, has been identified by a cutting-edge supercomputer as the leading horse to claim victory at Aintree. Analyzing the Field of Competitors The 2025 Grand National promises excitement with a line-up of 34 powerful contenders. I Am Maximus, last year’s champion ridden by Paul Townend, is aiming for back-to-back wins, a feat rarely accomplished. However, the pathway to victory seems challenging with new competitors stepping into the fray. As the horses prepare…
The paintbrush sky of an English summer and the lively thrum of thoroughbreds can weave a moment to cherish around the Grand National—a shimmering jewel in Britain’s racing crown. However, beneath this glorious surface lies an undercurrent of troubles threatening the very survival of horse racing in the UK.The Crossroads Ahead in British Horse RacingEven the British Horse Racing Association (BHA) chief admits the sport is at a crucial juncture. Despite racing being Britain’s second most-watched sport, the sport’s leaders must confront some grim figures and strategic hurdles.The BHA’s chief executive, Brant Dunshea, highlights the need for a fresh approach…
No stranger to the roar of the crowd at Aintree, Rachael Blackmore, the trailblazing jockey, is set to signal the start of another exhilarating chapter in her career. Known for her determined spirit and remarkable skill, Blackmore will this Saturday take the reins of Minella Indo in the much-anticipated 2025 Grand National.Previously renowned for clinching the Cheltenham Gold Cup back in 2021, Minella Indo stands as a horse with pedigree and prestige. Piloted by Blackmore, he secured a commendable third-place finish in last year’s Grand National, leaving punters eager to see if they can climb a few steps higher on…
In the world of horse racing, few tales rival the anticipation of the Randox Grand National, and this year’s story centers around the formidable Royale Pagaille. This seasoned contender, known for his prowess in the Betfair Chase, is ready to take on another challenge. With his powerful strides and determined spirit, Royale Pagaille will race for trainer Venetia Williams’ Wye Valley stables, hoping to secure a victory that echoes in the annals of Aintree.The path to the Grand National has been filled with twists and turns for the Wye Valley stables. Notably absent from the entry list this year is…
In the world of UK horse racing, anticipation mounts for the upcoming Kingwell Hurdle as Burdett Road, a recognized dark horse for the Champion Hurdle, prepares to face off against festival winner Golden Ace. Burdett Road, trained by James Owen, has shown remarkable potential and continues to improve with each race. The five-year-old made a triumphant return to hurdles, capturing the Greatwood Hurdle in November and delivering a compelling performance in the Christmas Hurdle, securing a third-place finish.Owen expresses confidence in Burdett Road’s progression, suggesting that the Kingwell Hurdle is a pivotal step towards the prestigious Cheltenham Festival. Despite the…
The legendary landscape of horse racing is buzzing with insights from the iconic JP McManus, who has put his cards on the table for the upcoming 2025 Grand National. Known for his signature green and gold silks, McManus has an impressive assembly of equine excellence, each vying for a place in the winner’s circle. However, it’s the seven-year-old gelding, Iroko, who has captured his unyielding attention.The Rise of IrokoIn a stable full of top-notch racers, Iroko shines like a diamond on a sunny day. After joining McManus’ esteemed ranks in 2021, following standout performances across the Channel, this capable steed…
With the electrifying atmosphere of Aintree looming, Grand National jockey Harry Skelton ignited the racing world by clinching a colossal victory in the inaugural David Power Jockeys’ Cup, banking a dizzying £500,000 merely a day before tackling the prestigious Grand National.A Monumental AchievementIn an event designed to spice up the racing scene, the David Power Jockeys’ Cup celebrated its launch last November. It aimed to infuse a fresh perspective into UK horse racing, drawing attention from all corners. Jockeys duked it out for their share of a whopping £1.35 million prize pot, showcasing their skills in over 100 races emblazoned…