Cocktails At Newbury!

There are four meetings taking place this afternoon with flat cards from Chepstow, Brighton and Newbury as well as a National Hunt fixture from Fontwell.  The stable has one runner this evening as Honeymoon Cocktail makes his debut for the stable on the flat at Newbury.  He contests the one mile handicap at 6.40pm and on the pick of his French form he wouldn't be without a chance under Mikey Ennis. Our flat runners were a touch disappointing yesterday with Impulsive American proving too keen and not appearing to get home at Carlisle on his first start in this country and his first since being gelded.  I would be surprised if he were not a lot better next time.  Meanwhile over at Leicester, Race To Glory looks as though he is need of some help from the handicapper.

I know people crucify jockeys for easing their mounts down close home (especially when they manage to get beaten!) but why on earth did the jockey on Cahala Dancer win by 14 lengths at Brighton yesterday?!  I backed the winner and there were certainly few anxious moments although I'm not sure I would have been thrilled if I were the trainer.  He is well ahead of the handicapper from a mark of 55 plus a penalty, although I'm sure he will be facing quite a substantial rise.

It is still only August yet Brighton have had to survive an early morning inspection to make sure racing can go ahead following heavy overnight rain.  Meanwhile Newbury have soft ground for their flat fixture and Chepstow is currently heavy.  The jumpers have to contest with soft ground at Fontwell and I'm certain the prevailing underfoot conditions will sort out it's share of runners today.

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The match between Arsenal and Liverpool ended up in a 0-0 draw yesterday with the goalkeepers the stars of the game.  I thought Liverpool had the better of the first half and Arsenal were the better team in the second although I don't think either side will be winning the Premier League this season.  I am a bit grumpy this morning as I did my money on Arsenal!

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I can't believe that the England selectors have taken the decision to rest Joe Root for the upcoming Twenty20 match and the five one day series.  How can cricket take that much out of you?  The players seem to spend most of the time standing around in the field or sat in the dressing room...or am I missing something?  Either way, it certainly shouldn't over-exert fit young men.

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Good news! England have reached the semi-finals of the Eurohockey by beating Italy 2-0 at London's Lee Valley.  When I was a kid Lee Valley was I place that I used to fish on the River Lee...how times have changed.

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Finally, a golfing gag to send you on your way with a smile...
Q.  Why are you using two caddies today?
A.  The wife feels that I don't spend enough time with the kids!

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