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jonthehammer 11:10 Mon Feb 15
Cheltenham Preview Nights
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As they are due to start this week it is time to start up the annual thread.
I will post the dates below.
Btw NAPS???
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Replies - In Chronological Order ( Show Newest Messages First)
jonthehammer
11:10 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH
Venue: The Goat Grill in Dublin at 7.30pm
Panellists: Barry Geraghty, Patrick Mullins, Tony Martin, Kevin O’Ryan and Rob Catterson (Paddy Power)
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19TH
Venue: Bracken Court Hotel in Balbriggan at 7.30pm in aid of Balbriggan Cancer Support Group sponsored by Paddy Power
Panellists: Tony Martin, Andrew Lynch, John ‘Shark’ Hanlon, Kevin O’Ryan; Chair: Gary O’Brien
Entry: 20 euros
Contact: BCSG PH (01) 841 0116
Venue: Tramore GAA at 8.00pm
Panellists: Paul Townend, Henry De Bromhead, Johnny Burke, Shark Hanlon, Johnny Ward, Noel Cummins, Paul Power; Chair: Ken Whelan
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23rd
Venue: Kettles Country House in Swords at 8.00pm in aid of Pieta House (suicide crisis centre)
Panellists: Davy Russell, Mark Winstanley, Andrew McNamara, Ado McGuinness, Brian Flanagan, Patrick Kennelly; Chair: Denis Kirwan
Entry: 10 euros
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24th
Venue: Ratoath GAA Clubhouse, Co Meath at 8.00pm
Panellists: Barry Geraghty, Gordon Elliott, Shark Hanlon
Entry: 20 euros including finger food
Contact: 085 174 5082
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25th
Venue: Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse at 5.45pm after racing. Supper at 6.00, Preview starts at 6.30pm
Panellists: Donald McCain, Stewart Machin, Paul Jones, John Morris, Andy Holding; Chair: Darren Owen
Entry: £10 including hotpot
Contact: 01978 780323
Venue: The Wild Geese GAA Club, The Old Townhouse, Dublin at 9.00pm sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Kevin Blake, Tony Mullins, Johnny Ward; Chair: Sean Boyce
Entry: 10 euros
Venue: Kildare House Hotel at 7.30pm in aid of Irish Injured Jockeys
Panellists: Bryan Cooper, Gordon Elliott, Gary O’Brien, Dara Fitzpatrick, Ryan McElligott; Chair: Kevin O’Ryan
Entry: 10 euros
Contact: Vincent Casey 0872461599
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26TH
Venue: Warwick Racecourse 1707 Restaurant at 7.30pm (doors open 6.45) sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Jamie Moore, Oliver Sherwood, Paul Jones, Luke Tarr
Contact: 01926 405560
Venue: Woodlands Hotel, Waterford at 8pm
Panellists: John Francome, Nick Luck, Davy Russell, Jim McGrath, Tom Segal, Jessica Harrington, Brian Cooper, Noel O’Brien, Hayley O’Connor; Chair Brian Gleeson
Venue: Tierney’s Bar, Ballygar, Co Galway at 9.00pm sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Paul Carberry, Johnny Burke, Kevin Blake, Johnny Ward, Gavin Lynch; Chair: Sean Boyce
Entry: 10 euros
Venue: Henmans Freeth, Oxford sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Lawney Hill, Harry Skelton, Josh Guerriero, Dougie Costello, Graham McPherson, Joe Hill
Entry: £25 including champagne & two course dinner
Contact: 01865 781236 email: jessica.reddy@henmansfreeth.co.uk
Venue: Dublin Racing Club at Alexander Hotel in Dublin at 7.30pm in aid of Irish Injured Jockeys
Panellists: Robbie McNamara, Nick Watts, Robbie Power, David Jennings, Andrew Moore
Entry: 10 euros
Contact: dublinracingclub@gmail.com
Venue: Killarney Plaza Hotel at 8.00pm
Panellists: Jim Culloty, Bryan Cooper, Tony Martin, Charlie Swan, Paddy Wilmott; Chair: Pat Healy
Entry: 15 euros
Contact: Vincent Casey 087 2461599
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27TH
Venue: Castle Cary Rugby Club at 7.00pm
Panellists: Paul Nicholls, Sam Twiston-Davies, Nick Scholfield, Andy Smith; Chair: Jonathan Powell
Entry: Ticket only £25 including drink and light supper
Contact: Emma Barber 07976 841903 emmabarber@btconnect.com
Venue: Donaghmore Ashborne GAA Club sponsored by Bambury Bookmakers
Panellists: Noel Meade, Sandra Hughes, Andrew Lynch, Adrian Heskin, Brian Flanagan, Mike Vince, Brendan Duke; Chair: J Moran LMFM
Entry: 10 euros including buffet
Venue: The Shakespeare Inn at Welford-on-Avon at 8.00pm
Panellists: Richard Johnson, Carl Llewellyn, Richard Philips, Andrew Tinkler, Gordy Clarkson
Entry: £20 including supper
Venue: Maryland GAA at The Gap House, Moate sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Tony Mullins, Johnny Ward, Kevin Blake, Andy McNamara, Geoff Lester; Chair Sean Boyce
Entry: 10 euros
Venue: The Castle Inn, Newcastle, Co Wicklow sponsored by Sky Bet
Panellists: Tony Martin, Barry Connell, Donn McClean, Tony O’Hehir, Michael Shinners; Chair: Denis Kirwan
Entry: Free
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28th
Venue: Doncaster Racecourse after racing sponsored by Betbright
Panellists: TBC
Entry: With racecourse admission
SUNDAY, MARCH 1st
Venue: Dunraven Arms, Adare at 8pm in aid of Irish Injured Jockeys
Panellists: Philip Hobbs, Tom Segal, Warren Greatrex, Katie Walsh, Andrew McNamara, Willie Power; Chair: Nick Luck
Entry: 32 euros including supper
MONDAY, MARCH 2nd
Venue: Towcester Racecourse sponsored by Sky Bet at 7.30pm
Panellists: Nick Schofield, Jamie Lynch, Oli Bell, Ben Linfoot, Niall Hannity; Chair: David Ord
Entry: £12 including hot meal
Contact: 01327 353414
Venue: Europa Hotel in Belfast
Panellists: Gordon Elliott, Mark Winstanley, Richard Hoiles; Chair: Gary O’Brien
Entry: TBC
Venue: Westgrove Hotel in Clane, Co Kildare in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland
Panellists: Bryan Cooper, Mark Walsh, Andrew McNamara, Noel O’Brien, William McCreety, Kevin O’Ryan
Entry: 15 euros
Contact: kevin.mcdonald@lombard.ie
Venue: The Railway Club, Melling Road in Liverpool at 7.45pm
Panellists: John Parrott MBE, Charlie Longsdon, Ben Pauling, John Morris, Andy Holding; Chair: Darren Owen
Entry: £10
Contact: 0151 5200080
Venue: Haydock Park Racecourse at 7.30pm (doors open 6.30) sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Marcus Townend, Trevor Harris, Angus Loughran, Marten Julian, Martin Greenwood; Chair: Paul Clarkson
Entry: £10
Contact: Text 0161 973 5921
Venue: Salthill Hotel in Galway at 8.00pm sponsored by John Mullholland in aid of DAFA
Panellists: Davy Russell, Patrick Mullins, Barney Curley, Paul Kealy, Edward O’Leary; Chair: Hector O’Heochagan
Entry: 20 euros
Contact: 1850 722722
Venue: Larry Tompkins Pub at 8.00pm
Panellists: Johnny Burke, Charlie Swan, Michael Winters; Chair: Liam Nash
Entry: 5 euros
Venue: Pogue Mahone in Liverpool at 7.00pm sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Ryan Hatch, Tom Bellamy, Martin Chapman; Chair: John Neild
Entry: £10 including buffet
Contact: Pete Marray 07811 268337
TUESDAY, MARCH 3rd
Venue: London Racing Club at Holiday Inn in Kensington at 7.00pm sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Phil Smith, Lydia Hislop, Paul Jones, Luke Tarr; Chair: Lee Mottershead
Entry: TBC
Contact: martiny60@aol.com
Venue: Wood Norton Hotel in Evesham at 7.00pm in aid of St Richard’s Hospice
Panellistts: Richard Newland, Paddy Brennan, Others TBC
Entry: £35 inlcuding two-course dinner
Contact: 01905 763963
Venue: Exeter Racecourse at 6.30pm after racing sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Paul Nicholls, David Pipe, Philip Hobbs, Nick Schofield, Luke Tarr; Chair: Luke Harvey
Entry: £18 in advance or £20 on the door; (£25 Grandstand & Paddock admission and preview evening; £30 premier admission and preview evening) includes a one-course hot meal
Contact: 01392 832599
Venue: The Claddagh Ring in Hendon at 7.30pm
Panellists: Alan King, Sean Boyce, Bernard Condren, Simon Clifford, Jockey TBC; Chair: Mark Johnson
Entry: £15 to IJF
Contact: 0208 2032600
Venue: Newcastle Racecourse at 6.00pm (food served at 6.30, preview 7.00)
Panellists: Graham Wylie, Rory Jiwani, John Blance, Gareth Topham; Chair: Paul Clarkson
Entry: £5 Members, £10 Non Members
Contact: 0191 2362020
Venue: Timeform Preview Evening at St Kent’s Irish Club in Manchester at 7.00pm
Panellists: Jamie Lynch, Dan Barber, Martin Dixon, Michael Williamson, Barry Orr
Entry: £10 including meal
Contact: 01422 398957 or tony.mcfadden@timeform.com
Venue: Jedburgh Town Hall at 7.30pm
Panellists: Ryan Mania, Brian Harding, Michael Shinners, Ed Watson, John Budden; Live link to Paul Nicholls and David Pipe
Entry: £15 including a free £5 bet. In aid of the Injured Jockeys’ Fund
Contact: jump2itevents@gmail.com 07591 212972
Venue: Wetherby Racecourse at 6.30pm for 7.15pm start sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Jim McGrath, Niall Hannity, Sean Quinn, Trevor Harris (Star Sports) Chair; Darren Owen
Entry: £10 including pie and peas
Contact: 01937 582035
Venue: Glencarn Hotel, Castleblaney, Co Monagahan at 8pm
Panellists: Tony Martin, Patrick Mullins, Shark Hanlon, David Jennings, Noel O’Brien, Patrick Kennelly
Venue: Martello Bar in Bray, Co Wicklow at 7.30pm sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Barry Geraghty, Jessica Harrington, Donn McClean, Geoff Lester, Dave Keena; Chair: Denis Kirwan
Venue: Shabra Charity Preview Evening at Glencarn Hotel in Castleblaney, Co Monaghan at 8.00pm
Panellists: Tony Martin, Patrick Mullins, Shark Hanlon, Noel O’Brien, David Jennings, Patrick Kennelly (Paddy Power)
Venue: Castle Glanmore in Fermoy, Co Cork at 8.00pm in aid of Marymount Hospice
Panellists: Davy Russell, Paul Townend, Paul Barber, Tony Mullins, Johnny Burke, Paddy Power, Kevin O’Ryan, Gary O’Brien
Entry: 15 euros from Kerins Bar or Castle Glanmore
Venue: Ballinrobe Racecourse at Westport Hotel in conjunction with The Mayo News
Full details to be confirmed
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4th
Venue: Sky Bet Preview Evening at Leeds Town Hall at 7.30pm
Panellists: Rich Ricci, Jason Maguire, Mark Howard, Donn McClean, Ed Chamberlin, Alex Hammond, Niall Hannity, Michael Shinners; Chair: Dave Ord
Entry: £10 includes pie and peas and a free £5 bet
Contact: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sky-bet-cheltenham-festival-preview-evening-2015-tickets-15351011288
Venue: SWAY Bar at Holborn, London at 7.00pm in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund
Panellists: Lydia Hislop, Tony Calvin, Tanya Stevenson, Liam Dye, 1 TBC; Chair: Rishi Persad
Entry: £20 includes drink on arrival
Venue: West Berkshire Racing Club at Newbury Racecourse at 8.00pm
Panellists: Warren Greatrex, David Bass, Brendan Powell Jnr, Kate Miller; Chair: Lee Mackenzie
Entry: £7 non members, £3 members
Venue: Gleesons, West Street in Drogheda at 8.00pm
Panellists: Andrew Lynch, Ger Fox, Tony Keenan, Peter Kingston; Chair: Will Reilly
Contact: Kingbet Bookmakers Drogheda and Clogerhead
Venue: Tynedale Cricket Club, Hexham at 7.30pm
Panellists: Andy Richmond (Racing UK), Craig Forsyth (William Hill Radio), John Blance (Racecourse Commentator), Peter Buchanan, Trevor Harris; Chair: Gordon Brown
Entry: £10 including supper
Contact: Paul Brierly 01434602381/07516 674833
Venue: Oaksey House at 7.30pm
Panellists: John Francome, Nicky Henderson, Wayne Hutchinson, Simon Clare; Chair: Jonathan Powell
Contact: Tickets to include drink and supper – Sandra 01488 71543 or 07887 505211
Venue: The Dog & Gun by Chelmsford Racecourse
Panellists: Dan Skelton, Oli Bell, Graham Cunningham, Luke Tarr
Entry: TBC
Contact: info@dgbr.co.uk
Venue: Westmanstown Sports Conference Centre, Clonsill. Dublin at 8.00pm
Panellists: Ruby Walsh, Davy Russell, Bryan Cooper, Paul Kealy, Noel O’Brien, Paddy Power; Chair: Jonathan Mullin
Entry: 20 euros including food
Contact: (01) 8207888
Venue: The Pheasant Inn at Lambourn at 7.00pm sponsored by Star Sports in aid of IJF and Oaksey House
Panellists: Alan King, Philip Hobbs, Noel Fehily, Martin Chapman
Entry: Free
Contact: http://www.thepheasant-inn.co.uk
THURSDAY, MARCH 5th
Venue: Midlands Racing Club at Old Oscott Working Men’s Club in Birmingham at 7.15pm
Panellists: Steve Mellish, Sam Turner, Lydia Hislop, Jon Ivan-Duke; Chair: Chris Pitt
Entry: £10
Contact: 07742 195968
Venue: Cafe En Seine, 40 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 at 7.00pm sponsored by Betdaq
Panel includes: Barry Geraghty, Jessica Harrington, Donn McClean, Gary O’Brien, Dave Keena, Greg Walker; Chair: Denis Kirwan
Entry: Free
Contact: marketing@betdaq.com
Venue: The Aegus Bowl near Southampton sponsored by Star Sports at 7.30pm
Panellists: Tom Segal, Ben Pauling, John Morris; Chair: Bill Esdaile
Entry: £12.50
Full details: www.cheltenham2015.info
Contact: roger@diamondeventssouth.co.uk
Venue: Horse & Hound Hotel in Ballynabola, Foulksmill, New Ross at 8.00pm
Panellists: Paul Nolan, Richie Galway, Peter McGrane, Jamie Codd, Tom Doyle, Noel Hayes
Venue: Carrigaline (venue TBC)
Panellists: Adrian Heskin, Gary O’Brien. Kevin O’Ryan and others TBC
Venue: Wincanton Racecourse at 12 noon before racing
Panellists: Paul Nicholls, Philip Hobbs, Aidan Coleman, Tanya Stevenson, Luke Tarr; Chair: Luke Harvey
Entry: £52 including three-course lunch
Contact: 01963 435840
Venue: Rodney Parade, Newport RFC
Panellists: Evan Williams, Brendan Powell, Brendan Powell Jnr, Aly Rowell, Christian Williams
Venue: Middleton Cheney Sports & Social Club near Banbury at 7.45pm (doors open at 7.oopm) in aid of Transplant Sport UK
Panellists: Charlie Longsdon, Lawney Hill, Kate Miller, Neil Philips (The Wine Tipster); Chair: Richard Hoiles
Contact: Andre Hook on 07900 692154 to book tickets in advance
Venue: Cartmel Racecourse
Panellists: TBC
Entry: £15 inlcuding light supper
Contact: 015395 36340
Venue: Sedgefield Racecourse at 7.00pm
Panellists: Brian Ellison, Danny Cook, Brian Hughes, Gareth Topham, Martin Dixon
Entry: From £9 including hot food
Contact: 01740 621925
Venue: Ton Pentre FC in Rhondda at 7.30pm sponsored by Betfred in aid of Riding School for the Disable
Panellists: Richard Johnson, Tim Vaughan, Tony Ennis
Entry: £10 including buffet
Contact: Kevin Moon 07845 247659
Venue: Ganley’s Irish Bar in Morden, Surrey at TBC
Panellists: TBC
FRIDAY, MARCH 6th
Venue: Almada Suite at Hamilton Council Buildings at 7.15pm
Panellists: Mark Howard, Ian Taylor (Gary Owen from The Daily Record), Ian Robinson (Imperial Racing), Trevor Harris (Star Sports), Leading Trainer TBA; Chair: Gordon Brown; Live link to David Pipe and two jockeys
Entry: £12 in advance or £15 on the night and a free £50 match bet with sponsors Star Sports
Venue: JPFestival.com at Function Room, Copa 66 Regent Street in Cheltenham at 7.00pm sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Steve Jones (Templegate), Rory Delargy, Cathryn Fry, James Walsh, Luke Tarr; Chair: Jonathan Polinger
Entry: £15 including a drink; £5 for jpfestival.com community members
Contact: Book online: http://bookwhen.com/jpfestival or call JP on 07966 452380 to pay over the phone.: Tweet @JPFestival, email jonathan.pollinger@jpfestival.com or phone 07966 452380
Venue: The Sydney Arms in Chelsea
Panellists: Tom Segal, John McCririck, Mick Fitzgerald, TBC x1; Chair: Emma Spencer
Full details to be confirmed
Venue: Holgate Working Men’s Club in York at 7.30pm
Panellists: Nick Robson, Malcolm Jefferson, Harry Drew (part-owner of Kings Palace and other horses with David Pipe), Chris Myers (pro punter), Michael Shinners; Chair: Wayne Wigley.
Entry: £10 including 2 free pints and a pie and peas supper
Contact: Alan on 07802 352022
Venue: East Garston Village Hall at 7.30pm
Panellists: John Francome, Colin Brown, Noel Fehily, Jamie Snowden, Pat Murphy, Stan Moore
Entry: £10 in aid of IJF
Contact: 01488 649770
Venue: Taunton Racecourse (Doors Open 6.30 for 7.30 start) sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Philip Hobbs, Paul Nicholls, David Pipe & Martin Chapman; Chair: Alice Plunkett
Entry: £10 in advance (£12 on door) available shortly from Taunton Racecourse website* Tickets limited to 250 Food available prior to Preview
SATURDAY, MARCH 7th
Venue: Sandown Park Racecourse after racing sponsored by William Hill
Panellists: Paul Nicholls, Nicky Henderson, AP McCoy, Jamie Moore (jockeys subject to riding commitments), Andy Stewart; Chair: Nick Luck
Venue: The Betting Emporium at The Bleeding Heart Restaurant, Hatton Garden, London at 6.30pm
Panellists: Neil Channing. Rory Delary, Russ Wiseman, Michael Shinners; Chair: Sean Boyce
Entry: £99.99 includes Champagne Reception, Four Course Meal and the Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide
Contact: @bettingemporium or www.bettingemporium.com
Venue: Gaultier GAA, Spinaker Bar at 8.00pm
Panellists: Henry De Bromhead, Donn McClean, Denis O’Regan, 2 local tipsters; Chair John Duggan
Entry: 10 Euros in advance or on the night
Venue: Jonjo Bright Trust at Minerstown Tavern in Minerstown at 4.00pm following East Down point-to-point at Tyrella sponsored by Toals Bookmakers
Panellists: Steven Crawford, Colin McBratney, Brian Hamilton, Jim Monaghan (owner of Carsonstown Boy), Mark McQuoid (Toals Bookmakers), Sean ‘Sadie’ McLaughlin (famous local punter); Chair: Richard Pugh
Entry: £5
Contact: 07725 984952
SUNDAY, MARCH 8th
Venue: Cheltenham Racecourse at 6pm for 7pm start sponsored by Ladbrokes
Panellists: AP McCoy, Philip Hobbs, Jessica Lamb, Mark Howard, Hayley O’Connor; Chair: Alan Lee
Entry: £6 in advance, £10 on the door, free to annual members
Contact: www.cheltenham.co.uk
Venue: The Lygon Arms in Chipping Campden at 7.30pm in aid of racing charities sponsored by Sean Graham Bookmakers
Panellists: Richie McLernon, Tom Bellamy, Richard Hoiles, Ken Pitterson, Ronan Graham; Chair: Edward Gillespie
Entry: £30 including hot buffet and raffle
Contact: kath@countrywidepromotions.co.uk tel: 07831 092368 or 01386 438038
Venue: The Fleece Inn, Bretforton, Worcestershire at 7pm
Panellists: Phil Smith, Sam Twiston-Davies, Dan Skelton, Richard Phillips and Andy Smith
Entry £10. Book via www.thefleeceinn.co.uk
In aid of the Tracey Sollis Trust and the Injured Jockeys Fund
MONDAY, MARCH 9th
Venue: Stratford Racecourse Paddock Pavillion after racing in aid of Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance
Panellists: Jason Maguire, Dan Skelton, Niall Hannity
Contact: Racecourse Office 01789 267949 or Tracy on 07825 634103
Venue: The Hollow Bottom at Guiting Power at 7.00pm sponsored by Star Sports
Panellists: Sam Twiston-Davies, Carl Llewellyn, Alex Steedman, Gary Wiltshire, Luke Tarr
Entry: £20 payable on booking including light buffet
Contact: http://hollowbottom.com/racing-and-events.php
Venue: Golden Heart Inn at Birdlip, Cheltenham at 8.00pm
Panellists: TBC
Contact: 01242 870621
Venue: Plumpton Racecourse at 12.30 before racing
Panellists: TBC
Entry: Free after racecourse admission
Contact: 01273 890383
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Mr. Burns
11:44 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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There is one in some mick bar in Ilford. Is that on your list?
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stewie griffin
11:45 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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LOLy5000 should be in the chair for the NAPS.
He's managed to swerve it every year, the little scamp
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Northern Sold
11:49 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Nice one Jonny boy...although it will be.. short and sweet this year...
Mullins to win the fucking lot
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jonthehammer
1:49 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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NS
Even the Handicaps?? :-(
There probably will be others about but these are the ones highlighted on a website i found.
I may pop along to the Haydock one. Never actually been to one of these nights,
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Johnson
1:53 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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I'll dust off my spreadsheet from last year, if someone wants to collect all the dough.
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jonthehammer
1:55 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Good lad Johnson
Isnt defjam the collector dude?
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jonthehammer
3:35 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Ignore that first post chaps, those dates are not right.
Think that website is giving me duff info here, leave it with me and i will have another look tonight.
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witch hunt
9:06 Mon Feb 15
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Everyone's cashing in on preview nights. Reckon the days of getting a good snippet from a trainer are over.
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jonthehammer
7:34 Tue Feb 16
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Managed to find the Irish dates.
23rd Feb 2016 – The Goat, Goatstown, Dublin 4
Tony Martin, David Mullins, Kevin O’Ryan, Andrew McNamara & Paddy Power.
25th Feb 2016 – Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, Co. Kildare
Oli Bell (MC), Ruby Walsh, AP McCoy & Rob Catterson (Paddy Power).
26TH OF FEB 7.30pm, O’Sheas Hotel Tramore
The panel will consist of Shay Barry(Trainer), John “Shark” Hanlon (Trainer), Jonathan Burke (Jockey), Brian O Connell (Jockey), Brian Hayes (Jockey), Johnny Ward (Racing Post),MC Ken Whelan and Andrew Mullally. Plus Special Guests
Tickets are available at €10 per person from O Shea’s Hotel on 051 -381246. A series of prizes will also be raffled off during the interval with all proceeds from the night going to Irish Injured Jockeys and Tramore GAA Juvenile Club.
28th February, The Golden Ball, Killternan at 8 pm.
Matt chapman Gary O Brien Tony Mullins Gordon Elliot Danny Mullins tickets 15 euro include finger food and 5 euro bet contact012955643 for details
29th February Larry Tompkins Sports Bar Cork
MC Joe Seward 93.1Life FM, Tony Martin Trainer, JJ Burke Stable Jockey to Henry De Bromhead
Tony Mullins (Trainer), Geoff Lester (Legendary UK Racing Journalist).
Tuesday March 1st, Newcastle Community Centre, Co Dublin : St Finians GAA Club & Peamount Utd
Panel: Johnny Ward, Jane Mangan, Tony Mullins, Gavin Lynch, Geoff Lester 8pm Admission: €10 €50 Starsports matched bet for all attendees
Wednesday March 2nd - Venue: O Grady’s Bar, Gort, Co Galway : Beagh GAA Club
Panel: George Mc Donagh, Tony Mullins, Johnny Ward, Derek O Connor, Geoff Lester + Special phone in guests
9pm Admission: €10 €50 Starsports matched bet for all attendees
Thursday March 3rd - Tierneys Bar, Ballygar, Co Galway - Hosted by: Ballygar Sports Field Group
Panel: Gavin Lynch, Johnny Ward, Kevin Blake, Jane Mangan, Mickey Fogarty, Geoff Lester 9pm Admission: €10
€50 Starsports matched bet for all attendees
3rd March 2016 – Hayes Bar, Moneygall, Co. Offaly –
Pat Healy MC, Johnny Bourke, David Mullins, Kerry Lee, Tom Hogan, Denis Hogan, Sean McGurk Paddy Power
3rd March 2016 – Bracken Court Hotel
Gary O’Brien (MC), Shark Hanlon, Tony Martin, Sandra Hughes, Rob Catterson (Paddy Power), Kevin O’Ryan, Andrew Lynch.
Friday March 4th : The Gap House, Moate, Co Westmeath Hosted by: Maryland GAA Club
Panel: Leo Powell, Johnny Ward, Tony Mullins, Kevin Blake, Jane Mangan, Geoff Lester + Dan Skelton (phone interview)
9pm Admission: €10 €50 Starsports matched bet for all attendees
Friday 4th March 2016 8pm, Kildare House Hotel
The panel will consist of MC Kevin O’Ryan and Gary O’Brien from Attheraces, Sandra Hughes (Trainer), Jonathan Burke (Jockey), Joseph O’Brien (Jockey) and Pat Brennan (Tote Ireland).
Tickets are available at €10 per person from Tote Ireland on 045-491830 and the Kildare House Hotel on 045-520002. A series of prizes will also be raffled off during the interval with all proceeds from the night going to Irish Injured Jockeys.
Saturday 5th March 8pm, Greville Arms, Mullingar – Ballinagore GAA Club
David Jennnings MC, Gordon Elliot, Donn McClean, Paudie Hassett and More
Saturday 5th March 8pm, Keilys, DonnyBrook
The panel will consist of MC Tom Malone ( Paddy Power), Patrick Mullins (Jockey), Kate Harrington (Jockey) and Paul Byrne (Racing Post). Entrance fee is €10 with free platters, Cheltenham guide & raffle. All money raised goes to Injured jockeys fund.
Monday 7th March 2016 – Ratoath GAA, Ratoath, Co. Meath
Andrew Lynch, Brian Flanagan, Tony Martin & Gavin Coyle (Paddy Power).
Monday 7th of March at 8.00pm - McHughs Drogheda Co. Louth
Noel Meade, Robbie Power, Donn McClean and Tony Keenan are on the panel. Admission is e15 with a e5 match bet for Paddy Power.
Monday 7th March, Westgrove Hotel, Clane, Co. Kildare
Kevin O’Ryan (MC), Panel: Willie McCreery, Sandra Hughes, Mark Walsh, Jonathan Burke, David Mullins, Mike Vince Tickets: €15, inc €10 free bet from Bambury Bookmakers. In aid of Kildare Down Syndrome Speech and Language services
Tuesday 8th March, The Castle Bar Glanmire
MC Kevin O Ryan, Panel Sir AP Mcoy, Jockey Davy Russell, Jockey Paul Townend, Gary O Brien ATR, Paddy Power
Wednesday 9th March – Westmanstown
Ruby Walsh, Paul Kealy, Davy Russell, Tom Segal & Jonathan Mullin (MC).
Wednesday 9th March 2016, Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny
Guest M.C. Kevin O’ Ryan (Attheraces) Panel A.P. McCoy, Paul Townend, Joseph O’ Brien, Henry de Bromhead, Tony Mullins, Paddy Power Entry €20 including €5 free bet with Paddy Power. In aid of The Thomas Hayes Trust. All enquiries to cheltenhampreviewnightkilkenny@gmail.com
Thursday 10th March 2016, Kavanaghs Portlaoise
Our Guest MC is none other than At the Races’ own Matt Chapman – Yeeeehaaa!
Last years event was a bumper with tips and enhanced a plenty compliments of Matt, trainer – Tony Mullins, Jockey – Katie Walsh & Herald Racing pundit Niall Cronin! This years panel will be confimred shortly.
Thursday 10th March, Dtwo Harcourt Street
MC Kevin O’Ryan, Ap McCoy, Paddy Power, Gary O’Brien, Paul Townsend, Davy Russell & Gordon Elliot
20e entrance, raffle in aid of Robbie McNamara
Friday 11th March 2016 , The Walter Raleigh Hotel, Youghal, Co. Cork @ 8pm
The Panel; Johnny Burke (Leading Jockey), Colman Sweeney (Cheltenham Festival-winning Rider), Tommy Lyons (Irish Examiner Racing Correspondent), John Dineen (Racecourse Bookmaker and Punter) Admission €10. Free €5 matched bet with Paddy Power included.
Friday 11th March – Ryans, Navan, Co. Meath
David Jennings (MC), David Casey, Noel Meade, Robbie Power, Jonathan Mullin, Rob Catterson (Paddy Power).
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jonthehammer
7:35 Tue Feb 16
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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and a few more
2016 Schedule
Thursday, 25th February 2016, Keadeen Hotel
Venue: Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, Co. Kildare
Panel: Oli Bell (MC), Ruby Walsh, AP McCoy & Rob Catterson (Paddy Power).
Friday, 26th February 2016, Exeter Racecourse
Venue: Denman Suite, Exeter racecourse
Price: £10 (can be linked to racecourse Premier admission for £22.40 – Devon National day)
Start time: 6.30 for 7pm
Panel: Paul Nicholls, Phillip Hobbs, David Pipe, Nick Schofield.
Tuesday 1st March 2016 – Tattersalls
Venue: Tattersalls
Price: £30 including light supper
Start time: TBC
Host: William Haggas
Panel: Oli Bell, Steve Mellish, Anthony Bromley, John Ferguson
Book: stearnfarmsltd@btconnect.com
Thursday, 3rd March 2016 – London
Venue: Walkabout, Temple, London
Price: £5, includes £10 free bet
Start time: 7pm sharp (doors open at 5pm)
Host: Matt Chapman
Panel: Rich Ricci, Sam Twiston-Davies, Paul Kealy, Noel Hayes, Joe Chambers
Friday, 4th March 2016, Kildare House Hotel
Venue: Kildare House Hotel
Panel: MC Kevin O’Ryan and Gary O’Brien from Attheraces, Sandra Hughes (Trainer), Jonathan Burke (Jockey), Joseph O’Brien (Jockey) and Pat Brennan (Tote Ireland).
Price: €10
Book: 045491830 (Tote Ireland) or 045520002 (Kildare House Hotel)
Monday 7th March 2016 – Weatherbys
Venue: Weatherbys Conference Centre, Wellignborough, Northants NN8 4BX
Price: £12.50pp includes supper and drinks
Start time: 7.30pm
Panel: Lydia Hislop, David Minton, John Ivan-Duke, Lucy Wadham, Matt Tombs, Will Kenndy, Ian Williams, Colin Brown
Book: bettrendsshop.co.uk (only eight tickets remaining)
Tuesday 8th March 2016 – Manchester
Venue: St Kents Irish Social Club, Manchester
Price: £10 including Irish Stew and raffle
Start time: 7pm
Host: David Yates
Panel: Jamie Lynch, Martin Dixon, David Barber and 2 TBC
Book: jason.moorhouse@timeform.com
Tuesday 8th March 2016 – Wetherby Racecourse
Venue: Bramham Hall, Wetherby Racecourse, York Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 5EJ
Price: £12 inc sausage and mash supper and Star Sports Cheltenham booklet
Start time: 6.30pm
Panel: Jim McGrath, Trevor Harris, Niall Hannity, Darren Owen, Sean Quinn
Book: wetherbyracing.co.uk
Tuesday 8th March 2016 – Newcastle Racecourse
Venue: Newcastle Racecourse, High Gosforth Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE3 5HP
Price: £10 (£5 for Newcastle annual Members) inc sausage and mash supper
Start time: 6.30pm
Host: TBC
Panel: TBC
Book: newcastle-racecourse.co.uk
Wednesday 9th March 2016, Middleton Cheney
Venue: Middleton Cheney Sports Club, Astrop Road, Middleton Cheney, nr Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX17 2PG
Price: £10pp
Start time: 7pm for a 7.45 start
Host:
Panel: Richard Hoiles, Charlie Longsdon, Lawney Hill, Andrew Mount, Jen Prest (William Hill)
Book: 07900 692154 or juniorhook21@aol.com
Wednesday 9th March 2016 – Kings Head Hotel, Cirencester
Venue: Kings Head Hotel, 24 Market Place, Cirencester, GL7 2NR
Price: £15
Start time: 7pm
Host: Tom Clarkson
Panel: Nico De Boinville, Luke Tarr, Christian Williams, Tom Symonds
Book: 01285 700900
Wednesday 9th March 2016, Sway Bar, Central London
Venue: Sway Bar, 61-65 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5BZ
Price: £20 (plus £2.29 booking fee). Option to buy raffle tickets to be pre-purchased.
Start time: 7pm
Host: Rishi Persad
Panel: Tony Calvin, Lydia Hislop, Geoff Banks and surprise guest.
Wednesday 9th March 2016 – Leeds Town Hall
Venue: Leeds Town Hall, City Centre Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AD
Price: £10 inc pie and peas and £5 free bet with Sky Bet
Start time: 7.30
Host: Ed Chamberlain
Panel: Alex Hammond, Donn McClean, Dave Ord, Niall Hannity, Mark Howard, Denis O’Regan, Warren Greatrex
Book: For a table of 10 on the evening, email: michael.shinners@skybettingandgaming.com
Thursday 10th March 2016 – Sydney Arms, London
Venue: Sydney Arms, 70 Sydney Street, London SW3 6NJ
Price: £15 for table seat, £10 standing
Start time: 6.45pm
Host: Emma Spencer
Panel: Tom Segal, Nicky Henderson, Barry Geraghty, Oliver Sherwood, John McCririck
Book: Call 07574 442333
Thursday 10th March 2016 – Doncaster Racecourse
Venue: Doncaster Racecourse
Price: £10pp including pie and peas
Start time: 7.30pm
Sponsored by: Sky Bet
Host: Michael Shinners
Panel: Dave Ord (Sportling Life), Tom O’Ryan (Racing UK), Martin Dixon (Racing UK and Timeform) and Andrew Thornton
Book: doncaster-racecourse.co.uk
Thursday 10th March 2016 – Kensington Forum
Venue: Holiday Inn, Kensignton Forum, near Gloucester Road tube station
Price: £8 members, £15 non-members
Start time: 7pm
Sponsored by: Star Sports
Panel: Lydia Hislop, Phil Smith, Lee Mottershead
Book: call Kate Austin on 07711 260973
Thursday 10th March 2016 – West Berkshire Racing Club
Venue: Long Room, Berkshire Stand, Newbury Racecourse.
Price: Members £3, Non-members £5
Start time: 8pm
Panel: Lee McKenzie (Chair), David Bass, Brendan Powell Jr, Oliver Wardle (Alan King’s assistant), David Williams (Ladbrokes)
Book: westberksracingclub.org.uk
Friday 11th March 2016 – East Garson
Venue: East Garson Village Hall
Price: £10 (includes one drink)
Start Time: Bar opens 7pm, starts 7.30pm
Host: Ed James
Panel: John Francome, Oliver Sherwood, Noel Fehily, Colin Brown, Stan Moore, Pat Murphy and Jamie Snowden
Book: via Sporting Agenda or Ed James directly edjames@sportingagenda.co.uk or 01488 649770
Friday 11th March 2016 – Almalda Suite, Hamilton
Venue: Hamilton Council Buildings
Price: £13 (in advance) £15 (on the day)
Start time: 6.30pm for 7.15pm
Host: Gordon Brown
Panel:Mark Howard, Fergal O’Brien, Ian Robinson, Trevor Harris. On the phone: Gordon Elliott, Paddy Brennan, Sam Twiston-Davies
Book: paul@imperial-horseracing.com or 07877 618120
Monday 14th March 2016 – Hollow Bottom, Guilting Power
Venue: The Hollow Bottom Pub, Guilting Power, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 5UX
Price: £20 (share platter included)
Start time: 7pm
Host: Alex Steedman
Panel: Sam Twiston-Davies, Ryan Hatch, Gary Wiltshire, Carl Llewellyn
|
jonthehammer
9:40 Wed Feb 24
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
|
The first one chaps, GET STUCK IN!!!
Goat preview night
Panel included David Mullins, Johnny Burke, Ollie Murphy (head lad at Elliott's)
Supreme:
DM: Was riding him (Min) earlier in year, is the real deal, keen at Punchestown last time, better ground and better race to suit.
JB: Huge outside chance in Supasundae, getting the hang of jumping. Min class apart.
OM: Like tombstone a lot on him at big prices, unlucky at Christmas, heard Min best since the fly, but thought he got worked up at Punchestown last time could beat himself. Altior straight-forward, main threat.
Arkle:
JB: Can't beat Douvan, broke SJ heart at Christmas, can't confirm Sizing John (SJ) will go to Arkle but can't really step up to JLT trip for first time at festival. SJ could be closer on better ground couldn't go with Douvan on heavy last time.
DM: Thinks SJ could put it up to Douvan on better ground, said anyone backing Tell Us More take fallers insurance.
OM: The Game Changer needs good ground has entry in grand annual but probably goes Arkle as it'll cut up.
Champion:
DM: Nichols Canyon (NC) to make it, hard to know where Annie Power (AP) fits in, would pick NC as doesn't know where AP fits in race.
JB: AP the one to beat, ruby to use stamina take off in front. If he could pick one would be on Identity Thief (IT), had a break and better ground and freshness will bring improvement. Said anyone backing AP watch out if it’s sunny in case of shadows.
OM: Like IT, AP too keen, likes NC too but no strong opinion as no entry.
Mares:
DM: If AP goes champion Vroom Vroom Mag (VVM) wins, can't see it beat. Ballychorus big one at a price with EW claims.
4m National Hunt Chase:
DM: Roi Des Francs (RDF) takes a lot of beating, jumps, stays, Pont Alexandre (PA) lacks a gear but might be race for him, could bring best out.
OM: Noble Endeavour (NE) jumps well and stays well but quirky but wouldn’t put you off. Lined up for race all season, will like decent ground.
JB: Minella Rocco (MR) = Certainty, given "kind" ride to say the least the last day and runs as a winner without a penalty.
3m hcap ch:
PP rep: Said Jonjo must have something for it if MR doesnt run as didn't go up in handicap after 2nd the weekend.
JB: Shanahans Turn runs, big chance if back to form.
Neptune:
DM: Long Dog (LD) should be joint fav with Yanworth. Still gives Danny stick for being beat in a maiden on it. Beat Bleu Et Rouge who is shorter he won’t go there. Busiest horse all summer forgotten about now. 95% sure he runs.
JB: at a price A Toi Phil, Vigil form boost the weekend. Yanworth is visually impressive but happy to take on.
OM: Yanworth banker on day 2. Doubtful General Principal runs but out weekend and should win.
Champion Chase:
DM: Un De Sceaux (UDS) vulnerable if someone (Special Tiara) gets to first before him, will sulk. Would love to be on Special Tiara (ST).
JB: UDS wins if stands. ST & UDS to take off break Sprinter Sacre’s heart. He’s on Sizing Granite and will ride to pick up pieces. Runs well fresh, better ground a plus.
OM: No entries, big negative Dodging Bullets, Nichols ain’t been champ for running horses unfit. SS doesnt give same vibe.
RSA:
OM: No More Heroes straight forward, stays, not flash. More of That (MOT) a negative as didn’t run when engaged twice. Wouldn’t swap No More Heroes. By presenting so better ground a plus.
DM: Can't have More of That. Between No More Heroes & Roi Des Francs. NMH = Don Poli 2.0.
JB: 2 horse race between NMH and MOT, will give him a race.
Bumper:
DM: Castello Sforza nice horse being backed, BG prob be on.
JB: Good vibes about Battleford. Keep eye on Aspen.
OM: No real good bumper horses at GE's. Gigginstown don’t like race.
*managed to catch DM at bar, asked about Augusta Kate, said they’re thinking of switching from Sandown to Cheltenham, pick of Willie's. Mare's allowance, so Patrick Mullins can't do weight ruby will ride. One he would be on if had a choice.
JLT:
DM: Rode Shaneshill this morning and he is over whatever was wrong at Donnie last time.
JB: Trip won’t bother Sizing John but can’t guarantee he will run.
OM: Big Zabana fan, thinks he’d be half price if trained by WM/GE.
Ryanair
JB: Smashing def goes, loves heavy, handles good.
World Hurdle:
All: Thistlecrack class apart
OM: Prince of Scars good EW on bad ground.
DM: LC 2 time G1 winner, come on massively for run, and trip and better ground and pace, thats 4 things that'll improve him.
Mares Novices:
All like Limini.
JB: Jessbers Dream the value.
DM: Can’t see past Limini, improve for better ground, jumps ok.
Triumph:
Average bunch all said would forgive AG (??).
DM: said Danny rode sensible last day, likes Apples Jade. Doesnt know if Footpad best of Willies just got best ride.
JB: Keep beating one and other.
Albert Bartlett:
DM: Gangster more impressive beating a horse than Bellshill, confident he'll stay.
JB: Cornered him and said he can't see past Barters Hill, has it all and can’t get passed, sets standard. Between Shantou Village and Barters Hill.
OM: SV come on for better ground.
Gold Cup:
OM: Everything went wrong in King George for Don Cossack, still in shout 2 out. Thinks he’d have won. big Djakadam fan, if Don Poli misses one beat race over. Can’t have Vautour.
JB: If Don Cossack was ridden like Vautour in King George wouldn’t have been like Kauto Star's win. Like Djakadam & Don Poli. Valseur Lido got into deceiving position last time went too hard in front.
DM: Likes Don Cossack. Said last race was confidence boost. Excited to ride Valseur Lido.
Others:
OM: Keep an eye on Jet Stream Jack off 134. Diamond King, Russell to ride. Desoto County bad ride last time off Kennedy. Our Father, goes well fresh, Kim Muir, Codd to ride. Campeador (Fred Winter) face lit up, didn't want to say anything as JP horse, heard from MC after he got in trouble for time Cause of Causes few years back, JP wasn’t happy. The less he said the more confident you felt. Squouateor also mentioned not sure what race.
JB: Sizing Codelco in Grand Annual. Aupcharlie in FH (Codd to ride).
DM: Feather Player (I think) beat Diamond king last time good shout in county.
|
Chinkey Weasel
12:39 Wed Feb 24
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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cheers jon
|
Takashi Miike
2:27 Thu Feb 25
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
|
Paul Nicholls Cheltenham Stable Tour....
http://www.sportinglife.com/racing/news/article/465/10179795/paul-nicholls-stable-tour
Nicky Henderson's Cheltenham Stable Tour......
http://www.sportinglife.com/racing/news/article/465/10177729/stable-tour-nicky-henderson
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jonthehammer
10:06 Thu Feb 25
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
|
Number 2 - Gotta love Davy Russell's comments
Limerick
The Limerick Racing Club hosted an entertaining Cheltenham Preview Night at the Strand Hotel in Limerick City, in aid of the Irish Injured Jockeys’ Fund. An attentive audience of racing fans gathered to hear the views of some major figures of the Irish racing scene, with plenty of Cheltenham clues on offer; just three weeks away from the Festival.
Former rider, jockeys’ agent and At The Races presenter Kevin O’Ryan performed the master of ceremonies role exceptionally well, providing a great blend of humour and knowledge to the evening’s proceedings.
The panel of experts consisted of Gold Cup winning jockey Davy Russell, the most successful point-to-point rider of all time Derek O’Connor, Barry O’Connell’s retained rider Adrian Heskin, top female amateur Kate Harrington, cross country chase king Enda Bolger and Cheltenham Festival winning jockey Robbie McNamara.
Here are the views of the panel on the showpiece events of this year’s Cheltenham Festival:
Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle:
Davy Russell:
Davy says he’s been impressed by the favourite Min but is concerned by his “wild” jumping and winning, what so far have looked to be soft races “travelling plenty keen enough”. He mentions that he’s spoken to Noel Fehily who reckons the Buveir D’Air is a very talented individual. Davy has a soft spot for the Gigginstown runner Tombstone who will improve for better ground and a strongly run race. He views him as great value in the race at 10/1. He says that it’s up in the air at the moment whether he’ll ride Vigil or Silver Concorde – the decision will be ground dependent. Silver Concorde will need to improve vastly to win, in Davy’s eyes.
Adrian Heskin:
Adrian thinks Min takes on his hurdles too much and sees Supasundae as a value alternative who will love faster ground.
Kate Harrington:
Kate has previously ridden Altoir and she thinks his experience and development through the season will allow him to put it up to Min in the Supreme.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek says he would love the opportunity to ride Min in the race – he’s been very impressed so far. He initially says he’d be interested in Moon Racer, but a few members of the panel tell him that they’ve heard if he goes to Cheltenham at all, he will run in the Champion Bumper. Derek can’t see Yorkhill running in the Supreme with Min already representing Willie Mullins and thinks he will run elsewhere.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie is very bullish on the chances of Min and makes him his banker of the meeting saying that bad luck is the only thing that can beat him. Speaking about Silver Concorde who Robbie won the Champion Bumper on, he’s certain that he needs better ground to be seen at his best. He says that he isn’t the most reliable horse, lacks a little bit of toughness and may throw in the towel if he is under pressure too early. He isn’t bowled over by Vigil either.
Enda Bolger:
Enda sees Min as the winner and says that Cheltenham has no problem sorting out free-going horses.
Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy:
Davy Russell:
Davy thinks Douvan will win, reckoning he is unbeatable bar a fall. In fact, he thinks that he will win barring they tie the ambulance onto his tail! When asked for a horse to finish second to Douvan, Davy is sceptical about predicting the placed horses as he believes whoever “rides to be second” will be placed and those who try to take on Douvan will tire and finish at the tail end of the field.
Adrian Heskin:
Adrian initially suggests The Game Changer can run well before members of the panel tell him that the horse goes for a handicap at the meeting instead. He reckons that Sizing John will be steering away from Douvan and may instead go for the JLT Novices’ Chase and holds no strong opinion on the race.
Kate Harrington:
Kate can’t see Vaniteux getting the better of Douvan but thinks he can finish second to him.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek is very sweet on Douvan and thinks an accident is the only thing that will stop him. He sees Sizing John as the horse who can finish second.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie isn’t interested in backing Douvan at odds-on and advises the audience to have “whatever you want” on Min in the Supreme before watching the Arkle drinking champagne!
Enda Bolger:
Enda is blown away by Douvan saying that he’s the best horse he’s seen for quite a while. He mentions that he’s previously spoke to Willie’s mother Maureen and she also thought that Douvan is the best horse she has seen in Closutton for a long time.
Stan James Champion Hurdle:
Davy Russell:
Davy doesn’t see Annie Power winning the Champion Hurdle and says that he likes horses that are improving at the Festival and usually goes for more unexposed types. He says that Identity Thief will improve for better ground and sides with him. He reckons his freshness from bypassing the Irish Champion Hurdle will benefit him hugely and that gives him the edge over Nichols Canyon at Cheltenham. He cites Henry de Bromhead as an excellent trainer for preparing a horse for one day alone. He thinks Annie Power’s preparation is far from ideal, and says if The New One is the benchmark for the British runners, Identity Thief will beat them.
Adrian Heskin:
Adrian disagrees with Davy and thinks it would be madness not to supplement Annie Power for the Champion Hurdle and thinks she’ll take all the beating. He finds it hard to believe that My Tent or Yours will be back to his best on the day and sees Identity Thief’s jumping as an issue.
Kate Harrington:
Kate thinks that if My Tent Or Yours comes back to his form of two years ago, he can be a major player, telling the audience that Nicky Henderson has said that My Tent Or Yours has been ‘absolutely flying’ up the Lambourn Hill. She can see Nichols Canyon putting up an improved performance on better ground.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek reckons that if Willie Mullins and Rich Ricci supplement Annie Power, she will win. He thinks it’s very difficult for Nicky Henderson to get My Tent or Yours back to the form of two years ago in the Champion Hurdle, which he’ll need to be at to win this year’s renewal. He likes The New One and thinks his course form will be a big help to him and can run well. He admits he’s a fan of Nigel Twiston Davies’ horses at the Festival. He sides with the consistent The New One knowing that he wants better ground being a King’s Theatre gelding.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie says that if Vautour ran in this race, he would win even though it’s highly unlikely he will. Kevin O’Ryan tells him that there’s no chance whatsoever of that happening but Robbie argues that Annie Power wouldn’t be able to beat Vautour over two miles. Robbie is unsure if Identity Thief is good enough to win a Champion Hurdle but will probably side with him. He thinks Annie Power’s jumping over two miles at Cheltenham could possibly see her take a tumble. Robbie can’t stand Peace And Co and has a huge dislike of the horse saying that he has a terrible attitude and is like a long dog with little legs.
Enda Bolger:
Enda sees My Tent Or Yours as the dark horse of the race. He thinks that Nicky Henderson is a terrific trainer for preparing a horse for a race without having a run; however, his freshness on the day could catch him out. He also notes that Annie Power’s seven pound weight allowance could be vital and that there are very few geldings that could beat her giving her half a stone.
Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle:
Davy Russell:
Davy has been hugely impressed by Yanworth, but still thinks there is more improvement to come from Yorkhill; with better ground helping his claims. He says that he could be anything and compares the point-to-point path taken with him as something similar to that of Faugheen. He’s not a fan of Bellshill. He says that Ruby Walsh got a ‘freebee’ on Long Dog in the Future Champions Novices’ Hurdle at Leopardstown but is still an underrated horse in this race.
Kate Harrington:
Kate thinks that Long Dog is good value in the race but she still respects Yorkhill and Yanworth. She says that her mother Jessica won’t have any runner in the race and Our Duke will probably wait for better ground and go to Fairyhouse.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek thinks that Yorkhill is hugely talented. He won on him in a point-to-point in December 2014 and was very impressed, telling the audience that he spoke to Patrick Mullins prior to the Cheltenham Festival last year and Patrick nominated him as the most exciting bumper horse in the yard that didn’t go to the Champion Bumper. As a result of bypassing the Festival last year, Derek thinks that he is a far better horse this year. When questioned on Yorkhill almost pulling himself up when getting to the front at Sandown, Derek isn’t overly concerned and says that he doesn’t think that there is any talented horse by Presenting (sire of Yorkhill) that doesn’t have a quirk – it could be the quirk that makes them so good. When asked about Yanworth, Derek notes that Alan King’s horses have been in flying form for quite a while and is unsure whether he can maintain that form until March. He’s not certain that Yanworth will still be at his prime come the Festival.
Enda Bolger:
Enda tells the audience that there has been talk that Yanworth could possibly be supplemented for the Champion Hurdle, showing how good they think he is. He says punters should look no further than him in this race.
RSA Chase:
Davy Russell:
Davy says that the rain before last year’s Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle really played against No More Heroes and his chances were hindered. On drier ground, Davy thinks he is a serious player for this race and sees it as a match between No More Heroes and More of That. The ground on the day would sway his thoughts of who would win the race: On dry ground, he would give the edge to No More Heroes, but on anything softer than that, he fancies More of That.
Adrian Heskin:
Adrian thinks that No More Heroes was unlucky in last year’s Albert Bartlett in which rode the winner, Martello Tower. He agrees with Davy and says that No More Heroes and More of That are clear of the rest and both are live contenders for the 2017 Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Kate Harrington:
Kate is confident and tells the audience that More Of That will take all the beating in the RSA Chase.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek likes the chances of Blaklion – to which Davy responds saying he has no chance whatsoever. Derek fights his corner and sees Blaklion’s course form and consistency as key attributes for winning the RSA Chase. He says his consistency of running around the 150 mark will allow him to run a big race – far better than his price of 10/1 suggests. He says that when the runners face up to the second last fence, Blaklion will still be there and will give his backers a good run for their money. He isn’t completely sold on No More Heroes for the race saying that he hasn’t been properly tested and has had a timid preparation against inferior horses. He thinks he’s a good horse but possibly isn’t hardy enough to win at Cheltenham this year. Derek favours battle hardened sorts at the Cheltenham Festival in general.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie thinks that More Of That’s performance at Cheltenham was one of the best he’s ever seen by a novice. He respects No More Heroes but is very fond of the Jonjo O’Neill runner.
Enda Bolger:
Enda admits that he has a soft spot for More Of That after having him in his care as a four year-old. Enda thinks that Jonjo’s preparation with the horse has been perfect and thinks More Of That’s relaxed nature will see him come out on top.
Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase:
Davy Russell:
Davy admits that he was sceptical about Un De Sceaux at Leopardstown and thought that he was going to burn out before falling in the Dial A Bet Chase, but liked what he saw at Ascot. He says that if Sprinter Sacre was at his best he would beat Un De Sceaux, but injuries and wind-ops have left him below the level he was before. He says that Felix Younger is terrific value in the race and can stay on and pick up the pieces. He reckons that by the time the Champion Chase comes around, the British riders will be sick of Ruby Walsh getting his own way from the front and he expects them to put the pressure on him and ensure that he doesn’t get a freebee. He sees horses tiring from the lead and Felix Younger staying on from the back to give them trouble at 14/1.
Adrian Heskin:
Adrian can’t oppose Un De Sceaux and thinks that Sprinter Sacre will take second place.
Kate Harrington:
Kate says that the Seven Barrows team is happy with Sprinter Sacre, but Nicky thinks that Un De Sceaux is the real deal.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek isn’t worried at all by Un De Sceaux’s jumping and expects a workmanlike performance resulting in victory. He makes him his banker of the meeting. He says that there isn’t the same spark in Sprinter Sacre these days and Special Tiara is much better on a flat track. He wasn’t impressed by Sire De Grugy’s Queen Mother and says that he doesn’t jump or travel like a Champion Chaser.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie thinks Un De Sceaux is a very classy horse and is probably a good price at 8/11 for the race. He’s not concerned about his jumping at all saying that most of the rest of the field are held together with sticky tape!
Enda Bolger:
Enda doesn’t think that the rest of the field will know which way Un De Sceaux has gone and he will win the Champion Chase.
Ryanair Chase:
Davy Russell:
Kevin O’Ryan opens the discussion stating that this is a difficult race to assess as we’re unsure what will run. This suggestion is shot down by Davy Russell as he says “we know exactly who’s going to run”! Davy tells the audience that Road To Riches will run in the Ryanair, as will Vautour – Kevin quickly tells him that Vautour is Gold Cup bound, to which Davy replies that he won’t stay the Gold Cup trip. He says that if Djakadam is 100% fit, he will run in the Gold Cup and Vautour will revert back to the Ryanair – and win. He advises people to have anything they want on Vautour with ‘non-runner no-bet’ rules and to “fill the wheelbarrow”. On the topic of Josses Hill and his jumping, Davy wishes rider Nico De Boinville “the best of luck” with Josses’ jumping.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek likes Road To Riches and thinks that he would find out Vautour at the end of the race.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie agrees with Davy (to the surprise of Kevin) and says that if Vautour runs in the Ryanair, he will win. He says that last year, he was the only horse he thought could win the Champion Hurdle, Champion Chase, World Hurdle or Gold Cup. Robbie is supremely confident and says that he’d even throw his trousers on the table and back him for the Ryanair with ‘non-runner no-bet’ rules.
Ryanair World Hurdle:
Davy Russell:
Davy has been impressed by Thistlecrack and rode against him in this year’s Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot. He noted that down at the start, Thistlecrack got in “a bit of a tizzy” for a few moments and stalled for a couple of strides – something Davy says he can’t afford to do at Cheltenham. Davy thinks it will be a big ask for Aux Ptit Soins to win after such a layoff and says that Prince Of Scars will need the going to be heavy or worse to win – even soft wouldn’t be enough. He is asked about Alpha Des Obeaux and thinks he has a lot to find to win the World Hurdle. He doesn’t know whether the prospect of better ground will improve him enough to land the spoils and he’d be surprised if he won.
Derek O’Connor:
Cole Harden is of interest to Derek and he believes that conditions similar to last year will allow him to produce a better performance than we’ve seen this year.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie says that Alpha Des Obeaux is a solid grade two hurdler and doesn’t think that he’s seen to best affect over three miles. He believes Thistlecrack is streets ahead of everything else. He says Vroum Vroum Mag has never been tested and that Cole Harden looks to be the value bet of the race at 8/1 with drier ground bringing out huge improvement in him, telling the audience that he shouldn’t be out of the first three.
JCB Triumph Hurdle:
Davy Russell:
Davy says that the horses that run in the Triumph Hurdle are disgusting horses and the form of the race is worthless. He tells the audience that the only reason the Triumph Hurdle takes place is to please the Curragh people; giving them something to watch over the Festival period. Kevin is quick to remind him that one of those Curragh trainers provided him with a winner at Cheltenham last year in the shape of Windsor Park! Davy advises the crowd to forget about the race and says that he doesn’t want to ride anything in it (again, his agent Kevin is quick to say that he’ll be trying to book him a ride in the race and to be quiet).
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie makes a strong argument for the Willie Mullins trained Let’s Dance, pointing out how well she stayed on at Leopardstown and her willingness to keep going in testing conditions after the last. He thinks that Ruby Walsh didn’t enjoy his finest hour in the saddle aboard the filly at Leopardstown – a very rare moment of criticism for Ireland’s champion jockey. Robbie can’t get his head around why she is such a big price for the Triumph and says she won’t be 14/1 on the day when punters see the Ruby Walsh/Willie Mullins/Rich Ricci combination.
Enda Bolger:
Enda has no strong opinion on the race but says that he hated Ivanovich Gorbatov’s attitude at Leopardstown last time out.
Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle:
Davy Russell:
Davy says he’d be surprised if Gangster won the Albert Bartlett but also would be disappointed if Barters Hill made mistakes and was still able to win. He advised people to see how the Yanworth form works out in the Neptune on Wednesday for Shantou Village.
Adrian Heskin:
Adrian likes the chances of Shantou Village and said that after Ruby got off the horse at Cheltenham last time out behind Yanworth, he felt he would have given the winner a run for his money on better ground. Adrian doesn’t hold any great confidence in the Irish runners.
Kate Harrington:
Kate can’t see anything but a Barters Hill victory in the Albert Bartlett.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek sees the Albert Bartlett as a race for future staying chasers, which generally emerge from Irish point-to-points. He thinks the stiffer track will suit Ballydine who ran very well behind Barters Hill last time out. He sees Ballydine as a tougher horse than the rest. Another horse which Derek fancies is Jonniesofa at a huge price as a runner that keeps improving and holds solid form. He thinks he’s a very well-made horse and tremendous value for the race, which brings enormous laughter from Davy Russell who tells Derek he’s got no chance and that he’d rather be sitting on the sofa than riding Jonniesofa in the race!
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie thinks good ground will bring out more improvement in Shantou Village and that he is an out-and-out stayer.
Enda Bolger:
Enda voices concern for the Irish horses in general saying the form of the entire season might not be a true representation of the horses due to the testing ground. He’s slightly worried that the Irish runners have had a lot of racing on heavy ground which they could pay a penalty for at the Festival. His selection is Shantou Village.
Timico Gold Cup:
Derek O’Connor:
Derek retains huge faith in Don Cossack saying that if he returns to the form of his Aintree run last season, he will win the Gold Cup. He thinks that (if he runs) Road To Riches could set up the race for Don Poli by going hard early on and allowing Poli to come home strong. He thinks Davy will ride Don Cossack in the race and throws down the gauntlet to him saying that Davy will win the Gold Cup.
Davy Russell:
Davy starts by saying that he has had no contact from anyone in the Gigginstown operation about a ride in the race. He finds it hard to see Bryan Cooper getting off Don Cossack and thinks that the O’Leary’s will put him up on something like Valseur Lido “to keep me happy”. Davy is keen to say that he would love to ride anything in the race and if they called and asked him to even ride First Lieutenant, he would ride him. He doesn’t know how good Don Poli is, saying that he thought he wasn’t anything special after getting beat on him in a Navan maiden hurdle. He thinks that Don Cossack will get the trip and when asked about possible headgear, says that the horse may travel too strong if anything is applied. He sees Don Cossack running his best races when racing a little lazily and didn’t think he was beaten in the King George when falling; adding that he was impressed by the horse’s character to return at Clonmel soon after. Overall, he is dubious about headgear for Don Cossack and feels it could “over do it”. Davy is worried about how closely matched the Irish horses are, saying they are either all very good or will be beat. He thinks the form of Smad Place is excellent and that he’s horse who could run a big race. He sees this as a very exciting contest, but points that out that Lord Windermere’s Gold Cup was probably the greatest ever renewal of the race!
Kate Harrington:
Kate sees Cue Card as the toughest horse in the line-up and is good value to scoop the million pound bonus. She then asks Kevin what he will advise Bryan Cooper to ride in the race as his agent.
Kevin O’Ryan:
Kevin says that Bryan knows exactly what he wants to ride and that he won’t influence Bryan’s decision at all. Kevin wasn’t impressed by Don Cossack in the King George and doesn’t think he can win the Gold Cup. He adds that if he had to have a bet, he thinks Bryan will ride Don Cossack.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie says that he has recently spoken to Bryan and that Cooper doesn’t have a clue whether he’ll choose Don Cossack or Don Poli. He says that if it wasn’t the Gold Cup and if it was just two horses in a field, he’d choose Don Poli, but in the pressure situation of the Blue Riband he’ll probably go for the safer option and ride Don Cossack. Robbie thinks Djakadam will win the Gold Cup and says that after speaking to Ruby about the horse, Walsh’s eyes lit up. He thinks there’s natural improvement in the horse from last year to this year and sees a more mature individual.
Enda Bolger:
Enda agrees with Robbie and favours Djakadam in the Gold Cup feeling he is tailor-made for the contest. He thinks his campaign has been fine (even with the fall) and knows that Ruby is very sweet on him for the race. Enda doesn’t like Don Cossack or Don Poli; the former too sharp and the latter lacking sharpness.
Best bets and the panel’s runners:
Davy Russell:
Davy says that he schooled Zabana last week and he is Cheltenham bound for either the JLT Novices’ Chase or RSA Chase. He was disappointed with his performance at Leopardstown last time out when his jumping wasn’t good enough. Davy says he has to improve but the promise of better ground will certainly help his chances. The nap of the meeting for Davy is Limini in the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle for which he tells the audience she is nailed on and to take the odds of even money.
Adrian Heskin:
Adrian says that Martello Tower’s work has been pleasing them recently and he could sneak into a place in the World Hurdle. He’s looking forward to Blue Hell in the County Hurdle, with Adrian obviously delighted with how to form is working out of his most recent victory. He tells the audience that Bishopslough will run in the Novices’ Handicap Chase on Tuesday saying that he jumps very well and the extra half mile will bring about further improvement. His nap of the meeting is Yanworth in the Neptune.
Kate Harrington:
Kate is very bullish about the chances of Rock The World who has been “working out of his skin”. The Arkle, Novices’ Handicap Chase and JLT all remain options for him and Jessica will wait to see how the races cut up before deciding on the target. Kate feels he has been forgotten about as the public haven’t seen him since October – he is overlooked and a massive price for the Festival. Oscar Sam goes for the Pertemps Final and has strong claims. Lake Champlain and Newberry New are due to run in the Fred Winter. The Harrington camp are hoping that Annie Power diverts to the Champion Hurdle and Vroum Vroum Mag to the World Hurdle as they plan on running Rock On The Moor and Keppols Queen in the Mares’ Hurdle. Kate also mentioned that New To This Town is an intended runner in the Champion Bumper and that she would obviously love to ride him, but she hasn’t been in conversation with the owners. She nominates Oscar Sam and Rock The World as the best chances of a winner for the Harrington team at the Festival, suggesting an each-way double.
Derek O’Connor:
Derek says that there is a possibility of him riding Southfield Royale in the National Hunt Chase, but also mentions that Minella Rocco could be of interest to punters in the same race. He tells the audience that he spoke to Tom George on the phone last week and he suggested that he hold tough on accepting a ride for the Kim Muir Handicap as he feels that he has a couple of horses with favourable marks for the race. Derek doesn’t think he’ll have any mount in the Foxhunters. He adds that Patrick Mullins nominated Battleford as a very promising horse before Fairyhouse last year and he is worth following in the Champion Bumper. Un De Sceaux in the Champion Chase is Derek’s nap of the meeting.
Enda Bolger:
Enda reports Josie’s Orders to be in good form leading up to the Cross Country Chase but admits he has to up his game to win at the Festival. He also tells the audience that he has heard through the grapevine that Foxrock will be contesting the race and if he takes to the obstacles “he could be in a different league”. However, Davy and Kevin think Foxrock has no chance. Adrian Heskin has never thought of the horse as an ideal candidate for the race but he has been schooling very well over the obstacles and could take a bit of pegging back. He also mentions that he is a horse who worries when travelling and they will be sending him to the U.K. very early this year to combat that. Enda may also run Quantitativeeasing, Cantlow and Love Rory in the Cross Country. On The Fringe is on course for the Foxhunters but he was disappointed with the run at Leopardstown last time out. He says that they have been taking their time with him, but he was disappointed by how quickly he faded after the second last before being nursed home by Jamie Codd. He didn’t expect him to win but thought he would be second or third and on the day and was a little bit further behind than ideal. Enda also acknowledges that his horses perhaps weren’t running as well at the time when he ran. On The Fringe wants good ground and will have a couple of racecourse gallops before the festival. Enda describes Gilgamboa as a horse who has “gone a bit clever” and will have an entry in the Ryanair Chase, but favouring a tilt at the Aintree Grand National.
Robbie McNamara:
Robbie is ultra-confident about the chances of Min in the Supreme, but selects Black Hercules in the National Hunt Chase as his nap of the meeting, mentioning that Patrick Mullins will be keen to ride him as he previously owned him.
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Northern Sold
10:41 Thu Feb 25
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Cheers Jon
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MrTrentReznor
11:41 Thu Feb 25
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Moon Racer can't run in the bumper. He's 7.
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jonthehammer
11:44 Thu Feb 25
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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I thought that Ray, bit of an odd comment. He isnt even in the betting.
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Northern Sold
12:05 Thu Feb 25
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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Well the Limerick one was a big ol Mick fest... did they mention a NON-Mick horse??
Some interesting pointers on the Henderson link
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Takashi Miike
12:06 Thu Feb 25
Re: Cheltenham Preview Nights
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im more an more tempted to lump on ALTIOR
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