Weekend Jottings

There are two meetings taking place this afternoon with jumps cards from Fontwell and Hereford.  David has two runners today at Fontwell; Duc de Beauchene and Grangeclare Glory.  Duc de Beauchene (pictured above) runs in the 2m3½f novices' limited handicap chase at 2.40pm.  There are only four runners but they have won plenty of races between them.  Duc de Beauchene ran well on his seasonal debut when runner-up over timber at Uttoxeter and he was far from disgraced on his chase debut at Haydock last time.  He would probably need to improve on that bare form to win but conditions should suit and this is a good opportunity with prize money for all four places.  Tom Scudamore is in the saddle.

Our other runner is Grangeclare Glory who contests the 2m5½f handicap hurdle at 4.10pm.  He showed promise in an Irish point-to-point that has worked out very well and again performed with credit over hurdles when placed at Plumpton and Doncaster.  The form of the latter has been boosted with the fifth and seventh winning subsequently.  This step-up in trip seems sure to suit and he looks to have leading claims under Tom Scudamore.

The big race of the day is the National Spirit Hurdle at Fontwell and that always reminds me of that fabulous old warrior Lough Derg who won the race in 2008 and 2009.  Today's winner will do well to enjoy a career as productive as his.

*****

The pick of the footballing action this afternoon would appear to be Chelsea versus Manchester United at 4.30pm with both teams in vain pursuit of Manchester City.  Meanwhile, Liverpool, who have been in disastrous form of late have a great opportunity to get back on track against bottom side Sheffield United.

The Players' Championship snooker final gets underway today with The Rocket, Ronnie O'Sullivan looking to win his 38th ranking title in his record equalling 57th final.  Given the flashes of genius he has shown again this week, it would be a brave man to bet against him.

*****

Have you heard about these new corduroy pillows?  They're making headlines!