Author: James Dooley

The thrilling conclusion to the UK jumps season unfolds at Sandown, where Mick Fitzgerald offers a series of richly considered picks for the day’s races. With the season drawing to an electrifying close, Fitzgerald handicaps the field with the seasoned eye of someone who’s felt the thundering hooves up close. His selections cover several races, providing a vivid tapestry of horse racing insight. 13:20 – HMS President (Each-Way) We start with the 2m Novice Handicap Hurdle, an intriguing contest where Alan King’s HMS President stands out. This horse, known for his prowess on the Flat, merits attention despite being in…

Saddle up, racing fans, because Saturday’s action brings a cacophony of hooves and heart-pounding excitement across the tracks in the UK and Ireland. The day’s offerings are as enticing as freshly-rolled oats to a hungry horse, with seven meetings ready to showcase the crème de la crème of equine athleticism.A Glance at Today’s Racing HighlightsProwess and prestige collide at Sandown for the thrilling conclusion to the British trainers’ title race. Willie Mullins, that seasoned whisperer of horse secrets, aims to clinch it thanks to his remarkable lineup, including previous Gold Cup winner, Minella Cocooner, and Grand National veteran, Grangeclare West.…

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…

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…