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TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
TIPSTERS EMPIRE – NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
NATIONAL HUNT
JUMPERS TO FOLLOW
2020/2021
WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE LIMITED
Page | 1 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Contents Foreword 3 Introduction to Jumpers to follow 2020/2021 4 CD Racing 5 Jumpers to follow 5 Handicappers to follow 12 Trainer to follow 14 Jockey to follow 14 The Wizard of Big Odds 15 Jumpers to follow 15 Trainer to follow 20 Jockey to follow 20 Ed Culham 21 Jumpers to follow 21 Handicappers to follow 24 Trainer to follow 26 Jockey to follow 26 Cotswold Racing 27 Jumpers to follow 27 Trainer to follow 41 Jockey to follow 41 Resources 42 Horse Racing Glossary 43 Page | 2 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Foreword
First of all, a big thank you to CD Racing, The Wizard Of Big Odds, Ed Culham Tips and Cotswold
Racing for all their hard work and maximum effort in making Tipsters Empire what it is today. We
continue to grow year upon year and a lot of that growth is obviously down to the excellent
profitable tipsters that we have, who not only provide consistent profits but also produce write ups
and race previews, of the highest quality, which in turn produce excellent return on investment for
members and make the services, what we believe the most enjoyable in the industry.
I would also like to say a big thank you to Ben Jenkins who is our website manager, developer,
excel spreadsheet Whiz kid. He makes sure everything runs smoothly and deals with all the techie
stuff which makes everything function on a daily basis.
Our last big thank you goes to our newest member of staff, Claire Bond who is our administrator
and takes care of all payments, queries, refunds, support on a daily basis, allowing myself, James
Walsh, to direct the www.tipstersempire.co.uk in the right direction along with
www.jpwracingtipster.com and www.jpwscoop6.com
We are very much a team at www.tipstersempire.co.uk we all have our important roles to play and
although each service is individual, we still have that team vibe, with everyone wanting to see
other services do well. It enables us all to thrive, whether than be the tipsters or any of the staff in
the office, we all want to see Tipsters Empire as a whole, to grow year upon year.
Over the last month our tipsters have been hard at work putting together their horses to follow
ahead of the 2020/2021 National Hunt Season.
In this eBook you will find graded horses to follow, Handicap Horses, Trainers To Follow and
Jockeys To Follow.
We may be biased but it is as good a book as any you will see and more so, it is totally FREE.
The four tipsters involved in this book are CD Racing, The Wizard Of Big Odds, Ed Culham Tips
and Cotswold Racing.
We hope you enjoy the read and any feedback is obviously very welcome.
Page | 3 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Introduction to Jumpers to follow 2020/2021
In total the tipsters have sent in 56 horses to follow. We have one or two horses which are the
same but these have been left in, as we believe it may be a good sign if one horse comes up more
than once.
The selection of horses is fantastic. From graded horses, to handicappers, to complete left field
selections. An excellent job from our tipsters who we will keep shouting from the rooftops, the
most talented team of tipsters in the industry.
Each tipster has also nominated a Trainer and a Jockey to follow, meaning you also have 4
Trainers and 4 Jockeys to follow.
Enjoy the read and once again any feedback is very welcome.
Tipsters Empire Limited
Page | 4 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
CD Racing
CD Racing is our longest serving tipster who started with us in
January 2018. At the time of writing he has made 338 points
profit, operating at a return on investment of 16.50%. He is a
tipster who is as professional as they come. One of his key
attributes is how remains composed and calm, even when things
don’t go his way. He has an encyclopaedia of knowledge when it
comes to Horse Racing, as you would expect from a man who
has visited nearly every racecourse in the UK. He lives and
breathes everything about Horse Racing.
A 28 day trial is available for new customers at £2.99
Jumpers to follow
Shishkin
Trainer - N Henderson
Form Figures - 3/11/F111-
The new Altior? Fell early on his hurdling debut but a couple of powering away from rival's wide
margin victories sent him to the Supreme Novice as a big contender for an owner with plenty of
depth in this division. The softer than ideal ground saw him drift on the day and he didn't get the
smoothest of runs through the race, were both issues, but he overcame the odds with a battling
victory ahead of another very talented novice in Abacadabras.
Shishkin has the size to jump fences and it will be a surprise if this season wasn't all about getting
him to the Arkle on Day 1 of the Cheltenham Festival for a crack at the top 2-mile novice chase of
the season. His high cruising speed was a given but he showed in victory last time that he's got a
good battling attitude too. He could go to the very top as a Grade 1 chaser.
I don't think we'll see the best of him until he gets a proper pace to aim at but that should happen
for the big day in March. He showed last time that he handles soft so that surface or better is fine.
Likely target
The Arkle on Day 1 of the 2021 Cheltenham Festival
Page | 5 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Abacadabras Trainer - G Elliott Form Figures -1O4/211212- Champion Hurdle bound. With Buveur D'air a year older and returning from an injury which ruled him out of a defence of his 2019 title it was Epatante who took the 2020 crown. She was clearly the best in the biggest hurdle race of the season last season and could well have more to come after just 6 hurdle runs, but it was probably a weaker than average Champion Hurdle and at least one of the good novices can compete. With Shishkin likely to be heading for novice chases, a Champion Hurdle campaign looks the right call for Abacadabras. He probably hit the front sooner than ideal in the 2020 Supreme Novice Hurdle but time may indicate that getting that close to Shishkin was a huge effort. The pair were well clear of the rest. His come from behind style of racing should help him to avoid having really hard races before the big day in March. 2 miles on any ground is fine, the stronger the pace set the better, as he's got such a good cruising speed. Likely target Leopardstown Grade 1 2-mile hurdles before a tilt at the Champion Hurdle in March. Saint Roi Trainer - W Mullins Form Figures: 3/511- Didn't look like a Cheltenham contender when a beaten odds-on favourite on his Willie Mullins debut but a wide margin win on run 2 booked his place for the festival. Still, he hardly looked thrown in off 137 for the County Hurdle but he won very easily and looks certain to make up as a Graded hurdler this year and possibly progress into a Champion Hurdle contender. in that County Hurdle, Saint Roi cruised through the race but so did the smart Aramon and the reluctant in a finish Buildmeupbuttercup. However, it was soon a matter of 'how far' when Geraghty pushed the button. Saint Roi scooted clear and given the owners liking for a Champion Hurdler he'll surely be tried at the top table before heading novice chasing if he doesn't make the grade. There's no need to go further than 2 miles and he seems to go on any ground. There was a generous response to pull clear and a turn of foot to go with it so stop/start races which can happen early in the season shouldn't catch him out. Likely target A lesser Graded hurdle to see if it's worth pursuing a path to the Champion Hurdle. If not, novice chasing. The way he moved through the race for last season's festival win suggest he could be a Grade 1 hurdler. Page | 6 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Minella Indo Trainer - H de Bromhead Form Figures - 13/321/1212- A dual Grade 1 staying novice hurdle winner, Minella Indo always looked the type to be a better chaser. He was brought along steadily to peak in the spring and he looked set to win the RSA Chase when leading, heading to the last fence. A blunder there left the win in the balance between Allaho and Minella Indo only for Champ to storm through for an against the odds win that will be shown countless times in the coming years. Interestingly, Minella Indo picked up as Champ went past, suggesting that he was idling as well as tiring. There should be more to come from Minella Indo after just 3 chase runs and 8 starts altogether under rules. Al Boum Photo sets the standard in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and he's respected as a dual winner but he's not clear of the rest by any worthwhile margin. Minella Indo looks like a better prospect than Monalee (same owner/trainer/jockey combination) and he was a close-up 4th in the big race last year. Likely target Cheltenham Gold Cup The Big Breakaway Trainer - C Tizzard Form Figures - 1/114- Colin Tizzard had a Cheltenham Festival to forget. A whole host of his big-name performers headed into the big meeting with realistic chances in Grade 1 events but very few ran well. The Big Breakaway did perform to market expectations for 4th in a Grade 1 novice hurdle. Gordon Elliott trained the 1st and 2nd and Willie Mullins saddled the 3rd. The Big Breakaway was a bit away from them in 4th but he shaped quite well for a future that surely lies over fences. The 3 who beat him are all 1 year older and each had high quality bumper form and more experience of racing under rules. The Big Breakaway demolished inferior opposition in a couple of novice hurdles before Christmas before heading to the big meeting in March so beating up lesser rivals will likely be the way he is campaigned in novice chases. We will hopefully find out next March if the extra year of strengthening up can bridge the gap to the 3 who beat him in the novice hurdle of 2020. Likely target RSA Chase Page | 7 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Bear Ghylls Trainer - N Martin Form Figure - 1 Henrietta Knight, trainer of 3-time Gold Cup winner Best Mate had really positive words to say about a horse called Your Darling after that one had taken the scalp of the top-class Sprinter Sacre's brother Flinteur Sacre, in a bumper at Newbury first time up. Your Darling headed to Warwick to try and defy a penalty. He was sent off the 4/6 favourite so a watching brief only was the call. Your Darling pulled up in that race, seemingly amiss having been held up away from the pace early on but up front another potential superstar's career was being unleashed. Bear Ghylls wasn't fancied and done plenty wrong in the race, pulling too hard and tanking his way forward. He joined the more experienced leader inside the final mile and soon cracked him. The Twiston-Davies trained Guard Your Dreams looked to have timed it right by moving forward as they left the back straight but Bear Ghylls's remorseless gallop soon made him go 'pop' too. He powered away in the straight despite running green. In a normal end to the jumps season that form would have been tested with more races for the horses in behind but the global pandemic cut the 2019/2020 short so we've only the visual to go on and not subsequent form. He's got the size for chasing but 2 to 2-and-a-half-mile novice hurdles seems like the right sort of campaign for this year. Likely target Nothing fancy to begin with, just a novice hurdle to see if he is as good as first impressions suggested. Marie's Rock Trainer - N Henderson Form Figures - 111 Last season was cut short for Marie's Rock with an injury making her miss Cheltenham. She had made a big impression in 2 hurdle wins in December before this. She took a keen hold at Haydock but sprinted away from the back of the last hurdle and she sauntered around Taunton to win with any amount in hand in a Listed race. 2 miles on good ground is ideal and she travels so strongly that there should be more to come when she gets a more competitive speed to chase down. Likely target Mares only hurdles to start with and if they go to plan with a sequence of wins a decision will need to be made in March whether to go the Champion Hurdle route and keep to 2 miles but take on the boys or step up in distance to 2 and a half miles but keep racing other mares only. Page | 8 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Appreciate It Trainer - W Mullins Form Figures - 31/3112- Appreciate It was only second when favourite for the Cheltenham bumper but he could turn the tables on his stablemate Ferny Hollow with the pair set for a campaign novice hurdling this year. Appreciate It has plenty of size about him and he could be forgiven for thinking it was job done when he forged ahead at Cheltenham. That type of burst of speed had won him the race at Leopardstown twice before but not this time with the more restrained ride on the winner reaping rewards. Appreciate It looks to have a bit of growing up to do as he was a shade keen in that championship race but there's every chance that he'll improve for the experience. He's got a bit of a turn of foot about him and plenty of scope so 2 and a half miles might be the way to go rather than a flat 2 miles. Likely target Day 2, race 1 of the Cheltenham Festival, the intermediate trip Grade 1 novice hurdle. The race is registered as the Baring Bigham but is rarely called that, it was the Ballymore last year but does change sponsorship from time to time. Ranch Hand Trainer - A Balding Form Figures - unraced under NH Rules A very high-class flat horse. This type of horse rarely makes the transition from flat racing to hurdles with plenty sold to other racing jurisdictions to compete for much greater prize money but happily connections of Ranch Hand are giving it a go. Ranch Hand won a Listed staying race at Newmarket in late September and looked set to be a competitor in all the staying Group races if connections chose that route but hurdles have been nominated as his future. He's going to need 2 and a half miles plus over hurdles as he has hit flat spots when the tempo was steady on the flat. I wouldn't be surprised if Ranch Hand was caught flat footed in run of the mill, modestly run, novice hurdles but he could well come into his own given a strong pace staying hurdle. Likely target I don't think there will be a target for Ranch Hand yet, it will be a case of get him in a novice hurdle and see if he takes to it. If he jumps OK then a nice handicap with an end to end gallop could suit. Page | 9 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Lostintranslation Trainer - C Tizzard Form Figures - 4/221672/231221/11P3- An interrupted preparation after a King George blow out left Lostintranslation on the back-foot heading into the Gold Cup but he ran a blinder for a close 3rd. His strong travelling accurate jumping from when he won the Betfair Grade 1 Chase at Haydock was back and he briefly looked the winner before fading into the places close home. He's got such a good high cruising speed that he looks like it is effortless to keep tabs with staying chasers who take more rousting but there will always be the doubt about whether he's the right type of slugger to win a Gold Cup. A better lead up to the big day could make the difference and as an 8-year-old rising 9 he deserves another shot at the biggest prize. Haydock should be 1st up for a follow up win in the Betfair Chase so long as the ground isn't too heavy (leave that for Bristol De Mai if it's a bog!). You might want to skip Kempton after his 2019 King George run. I think Leopardstown at Christmas would suit well. That's a proper test of jumping and it doesn't often get very heavy ground, both of which will suit Lostintranslation. Likely target Haydock for the Betfair Chase then plan a route to the Cheltenham Gold Cup for another crack. Fiddlerontheroof Trainer - C Tizzard Form Figures - 4/5321/22110- Looked to have the right blend of class and experience to run well in the Supreme Novice Hurdle on Day 1 of the 2020 Cheltenham Festival but he blew out. It's probably best not to judge him too harshly from that run as plenty of Tizzard trained horses underperformed at that big stage. His hurdle year always looked to be a bonus as Fiddlerontheroof looks every inch a chaser. If he had run better at Cheltenham then a decision would have to be made whether to have another season hurdling or head to novice chases. After that blow-out its novice chasing all the way. Likely target Start at 2 miles and maybe end up at 2-and-a-half-mile novice chases. He handles soft ground well so picking up wins in the winter might be the best idea. Page | 10 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Mister Fisher Trainer - N Henderson Form Figures - 10/2118/72114- Mister Fisher looked really promising when winning a good quality Graded novice chase at Doncaster. That was 2 miles on decent ground so with the benefit of hindsight it was probably the wrong call to step up in distance on softer ground at Cheltenham. Mister Fisher was just off the pace throughout in the Marsh Novice Chase at the big meeting, never really landing a blow but finishing a creditable 4th. There should be plenty of races to aim at as better ground chases between 2 and 2 and a half miles look right for Mister Fisher. He is Graded class but could dip into high class handicaps too. Likely target Hard to say, Schloer Chase in November? Peterborough Chase in December? There are options for this type of horse. It depends on when he reaches full fitness. Skipping Cheltenham for the Melling Chase at Aintree's Grand National meeting could be a good long-term aim. That race is over 2 and a half miles, it's usually run on decent ground and some of the big guns in it will have hard races at Cheltenham. Page | 11 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Handicappers to follow
Ben Dundee
Trainer - W Mullins
Form Figures - 5/157245/162000/31PF63/4275-
Has made the switch from Gordon Elliott to Willie Mullins and he's got unfinished business with
Cheltenham Festival handicap chases. Ben Dundee was 3rd in the novice's handicap in 2019 to
the handicap blot A Plus Tard and 5th in open handicap company in 2020 when hampered by
fallers in the run. I envisage a similar sparingly raced campaign and then to try to make it 3rd time
lucky for the Festival come March.
Likely Target
The 2-and-a-half-mile handicap chase at the Cheltenham Festival.
Belami Des Pictons
Trainer - V Williams
Form Figures - 6/533111/4111/2/P/486-
A jumping mistake at fence 1 and getting hampered at fence number 2 put him on the back foot in
the Betvictor Gold Cup on his seasonal debut at Cheltenham last November but he stuck on really
well for 4th. He was favourite for a Kempton handicap the month after but that wouldn't be the
ideal course for him. Cheek-pieces were tried and failed to do the trick next time. Time is on
Belami Des Pictons side to re-find his form, he's 6 pounds lower than when running very well first
time up in 2019 so a galloping course when returning fresh looks a good plan.
Likely target
A repeat bid for the Betvictor Gold Cup in mid-November at Cheltenham. If that doesn't fall right
for him, a handicap chase at Newbury would suit too.
Benny's Bridge
Trainer - F O'Brien
Form Figures - 13/2F41719-10
Benny's Bridge had already won 2 x 2-mile handicap hurdles at Cheltenham and was sent off as
the favourite when upped in class for the Greatwood last November. He never looked happy in
that race and was lame afterwards. The softer ground wasn't a help either. He hacked up on his
first run of the 2019/2020 season and should be kept onside for his first run this season too,
granted decent ground.
Likely target
Benny's Bridge would get in at the top of the weights for a repeat bid of the conditional jockey
handicap hurdle that he won at Cheltenham in late October last year. The O'Brien stable love
winners at Cheltenham and have a very good conditional jockey in Connor Brace too.
Page | 12 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Tedham Trainer - J O'Neill Form Figures - 3/43217/637- Just the one win from 9 starts so far for Tedham which is not enough for a horse with his level of ability. He got a nice handicap mark with 3 runs over shorter distances and duly won the first time at trying a handicap, upped in trip. Tedham has been a beaten favourite 4 times in a row since. He pulled hard at Aintree then got outpaced before staying on a couple of times and was hampered last time out. His mark of 131 looks a good one for when things click again. Likely target It's got to be worth another go in a handicap hurdle off this mark. If that doesn't work then maybe novice chasing but I'm confident he can win another handicap hurdle off his current rating. Dingo Dollar Trainer : A King Form Figures - 1/20171/4F112/4362P/355U- Staying chases on good ground at galloping courses like Doncaster or Newbury suit. He's had a hurdle prep for the big chase at the end of November/start of December at Newbury for the past 2 seasons (was the Hennessy now the Ladbrokes). He's not quite up to winning that perennially hot contest but has run with credit for 3rd and 5th in the last 2 years. If sights are lowered, then Dingo Dollar can win a nice handicap chase this year. Likely target Another crack at the Ladbrokes Trophy, but it shouldn't be! If that's the aim then he can run well again but probably not win. If connections ambitions are to win rather than just to take part, then a lower quality chase would be well within his grasp. Page | 13 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Trainer to follow
Lucinda Russell
Lucinda Russell has had an unusually busy time over the summer. For the month of August in the
previous 4 years the most runners she's had is 11 and the highest winning total was 1. The Covid
enforced early finish to 2019/20 looks to have encouraged a swifter resumption with 5 wins from
34 runners this August for the stable. How will this impact her figures for the coming months? Only
time will tell but I suspect that the horses who have been running this summer are her quicker
ground 'spring' horses who were making up for lost time. The 'winter' types, who prefer soft ground
will likely follow the same sort of pattern as in previous seasons.
Russell's horses as rule do seem to come forward for a run and she's better with chasers than
hurdles. In the past 4 seasons her chase runners have hit top winning form in either October (2017
& 2019) or November (2016 & 2018) before dropping off in December. A level stakes profit would
have been made for each of the 4 good months mentioned but that plus can be enhanced with
more knowledge of the horses applied. Hexham and Kelso look the go to places for autumn gains
for Lucinda Russell chasers and that's an angle I'll be keeping an eye on for the next couple of
months.
Jockey to follow
Last season's champion conditional jockey is currently riding high in 5th place for the overall
standings for the 2020-21 season. He's got the backing of a big yard with his father's, Jonjo O'Neill
Senior, mostly JP McManus owned horses supplying the majority of his wins but the fact that he
won 3 Graded chases for Colin Tizzard on 3 different horses earlier this year shows the esteem
that another top trainer holds him in.
O'Neill has a really good spread of wins across many different courses. It doesn't seem to matter
to him whether it's left or right, undulating or flat. He's got a slightly better strike rate with chasers
than with hurdlers but that's often the case with the average number of runners a little higher over
the smaller obstacles. There doesn't appear to be a key to when to get on board with this jockey.
He's just very good and it's a general plus if he's riding the horse you're leaning towards.
Page | 14 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
The Wizard of Big Odds
The Wizard Of Big Odds has made a big name for himself since
he started with us back in July 2018. As the name suggests, he is
The Wizard Of Big Odds. He has landed 100/1 winners in the
past, as well as multiple 50/1 winners. Since he started at
Tipsters Empire, at the time of writing he has made 307 points
profit, operating at a return on investment of 19.00%. A Tipster
who has years of experience and is as professional and as
dedicated as they come.
His results show us that he comes alive for National Hunt Racing
and his record for the Jumps Season is unrivalled in the industry.
Between 1st November 2018 – 30th April 2019, he made a huge
190 points profit, with a whopping 44.05% return on investment.
Between 1st November 2019 – 17th March 2020 (racing stopped
due to Covid 19), he made a massive 153 points profit, with a
sensational 53.94% return on investment.
Those figures are up with the best in the industry when it comes
to National Hunt Racing and he will be all out to make it 3 years
running of profit.
A 28 day trial is available for new customers at £2.99
Jumpers to follow
DESQUE DE L'ISLE
Trainer - Venetia Williams
Despite being a 7 year old he's had just the 5 races for Venetia Williams and he's appeared very
much on the weak side, often travelling well until finding little at the business end. The trainer has
actually had him for a couple of years prior to getting him on the track so he'd obviously had an
injury or two along the way and has seemed slow to come to hand. All his races then came within
a short space of time (between November and March) but the first 4 runs especially came quick
enough and he looked badly in need of the experiences. After failing to finish anywhere close to
the frame he showed plenty more on his most recent start after being given a couple of months off,
only weakening between the final two fences but he jumped well and was an honourable 2nd.
That race looks very strong for the grade with the first 3 home all of interest going forward. He's
actually dropped a pound for that effort and will start the season off a rating off just 97 and now
having been given time to strengthen up he looks just the type who could easily rack up 3 or 4
wins on the spin.
Page | 15 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 MISTER COFFEY Trainer - Nicky Henderson Got turned over at 1/3 last time out at Huntingdon after pulling 15 lengths clear at half way, but it wasn't by design and he just refused to settle. He also jumped out to his left at certain hurdles so a return to a left-handed track will suit. It was hardly surprising that day he had nothing left when the 139 rated West Cork challenged him in the straight. He's far better judged on his beating of Shakem Up Arry at Newbury previously with higher rated rivals in behind. He was a touch keen that day also but was nicely on top at the finish and a mark of 128 has almost certainly let him in very lightly, providing he consents to race properly. He'll need to drop the anchor if he is to fulfil his true potential but he's much better than his current mark and looks the type to win a big 2 mile handicap like the Betfair hurdle or the Greatwood where a big field and faster pace will suit him down to the ground (both run on left-handed tracks). MR GREY SKY Trainer - Kim Bailey Is a half-brother to the very useful 145 rated Danny Whizzbang and I'll be disappointed if he can't win some nice races, especially when the mud is flying. He won his first two bumper races at Haydock in 2018 on deep ground, finding lots for pressure and he looks a nice horse to have on your side, when push comes to shove. He disappointed on hurdles debut at Ascot last year, but had been off the track nearly 12 months and although he was put in his place by the 149 rated Master Debonair he constantly slowed up into his hurdles and actually nearly unseated his rider at the first after jumping to his right, bumping into a rival. That set the tone for his performance and I'm sure his shrewd trainer will now have him properly schooled. Kim Baileys comments after the race were as follows, " Bizarrely we expected him to be a bit babyish on his first start over hurdles and that's exactly what he was. He fluffed his jumping lines early and pulled far too hard. He behaved like a slightly over excited boy. He will have learnt plenty from that experience and will be a different horse next time out". Having had just the one start over hurdles he hasn't got a handicap mark as yet, but if he were to do so he'd probably rate around the 130 mark. I think he's potentially far better than that. He apparently shows little at home but looks to have a big engine and he looks a smart prospect. TAMAROC DU MATHAN Trainer - Paul Nicholls Finished 2nd to Master Debonair in his first hurdles race in this country (Mr Grey Sky back in 3rd) and on just his second ever racecourse appearance and on the back of that performance he received a mark of 135. Returning to Ascot he ran in a hot grade 3, won by Champion hurdle hope Not So Sleepy but finished out the back which wasn't surprising as he's a nice moving horse and he hated the heavy ground. Dropped 5lbs for that poor run he was an unfancied 50/1 shot for the Betfair hurdle, but he ran a cracker to be 5th, coming from further back than ideal to be beaten less than a length and a half. On the back of that effort, he was just a 5/1 shot for the 2 mile 5- furlong Paddy Power hurdle at Kempton, but after travelling probably best of all throughout, he failed to stay and eventually finished 7th of the 20 runners. He's a pound lower now and is currently rated 132 and he looks very nicely handicapped. Decent ground seems his preference and he can pick up a nice handicap or two in the coming season. A possible tilt at the County hurdle could be the long-range target, as a fast run 2 miles on a stiff track is probably ideal. Page | 16 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 SHAKEM UP 'ARRY Trainer – Ben Pauling Owned by the irrepressible Harry Redknapp who looks to have found himself a nice horse. Although he could finish only 10th of 12 in the Ballymore the 2 miles 5-furlong trip, stretched his stamina to the max and he looks far more an out and out 2 miler, that run is easily ignored. He had previously finished 2nd to Shishkin at Newbury and although beaten 11 lengths he looked to have the potential superstar in trouble at the second last until class told, but he was nicely clear of the remainder. He looks a horse who will continue to improve and with the Henderson horse now rated 159 I think a mark of 127 for "Arry" looks very workable. His previous form when 2nd to the aforementioned Mister Coffey is also very strong and he looks very likely to progress further. He's a strong traveller and he can pick up a couple of nice handicaps in the coming months off what looks a lenient opening mark. CAPTAIN GUINNESS Trainer – Henry De Bromhead Won his first race in impressive style before going onto finish 2nd to Andy Dufresne at Punchestown where he fiddled the last after being too keen early on. He appeared to have the race won that day but those early exertions took their toll late on. In his final reappearance he was brought down at the second last in the Supreme at Cheltenham after nearly being taken out at the previous flight. That was a very strong race and although you never know what they'll find for pressure he was tanking along and going better than the eventual winner Shishkin at the time. He looks made for fences and his current odds of 16/1 for the Arkle make plenty of appeal. He's a very exciting prospect and I'll be disappointed if he isn't in the firing line for major honours in the coming season. MCFABULOUS Trainer – Paul Nicholls Has always been held in the highest regard by trainer Paul Nicholls who is seldom wrong when he thinks he has something special on his hands. He's now won his last 2 and was very impressive last time out at Kempton but the handicapper has reacted by putting him up 13lbs, which seems a touch on the harsh side really, on the balance of form. It's more a case about what he could be, rather than what he has actually achieved to date. He's now rated 145 and would probably have to improve maybe another stone to see him competitive in the Stayers Hurdle which is currently now wide open after a below par run from Paisley Park in this year's renewal. That is far from out of the question and I've already had a small nibble at 20/1 as it's a race his trainer has a great record in and it looks the obvious target. Soft or heavy ground is no good to him as he's a lovely moving horse, but conditions come March maybe ideal and it will be very interesting to see how he progresses throughout the season. Page | 17 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 HOLLYWOOD KEN Trainer – Fiona Shaw Won a couple of handicaps for his current trainer in 2018 in good style with the last of those wins coming off a mark of 110 (now rated 105). After a year in the doldrums, where he was very lightly raced, he then showed plenty more when 4th to the prolific Lightly Squeezed at Plumpton before going onto finish 4th to Main Fact at Warwick. He pulled hard that day and was clearly second best on the day, only weakening late on and considering the winner is one of the most progressive handicappers in the country, having won 5 on the spin and is now rated a full 40lb higher than he was at Warwick, that was a cracking effort by Hollywood Ken. He's now 3lbs lower in the weights and a repeat of that form would see him of obvious interest. When last seen on chase debut he finished a good third to Bathiva and Desque De L'Isle, jumping well in the main and as I've indicated previously, I think that form is strong. He's very well handicapped nowadays, either over hurdles or fences and although he's no great shakes, there's more wins to be had with him. THEATRE MIX Trainer – Jackie Du Plessis Is a selection from left field but we're likely to get paid off handsomely if as I suspect, she can win a couple of minor races? Although she's rated just 94 and has been beaten 31 lengths, 20 lengths and 33 lengths in her 3 handicap starts to date, she's shown promise in each of those races which have come in a 0-125 and twice in 0-115 contests. She's threatened to get into the action in all those events, either found the heavy ground or 3 miles against her but she's run with far more promise than what the bare facts would tell you. I'm waiting for her to run in a 0-100 on decent ground at probably around the 2-and-a-half-mile trip, and I am convinced she has wins in her. She hails from an unfashionable yard and her form figures don't inspire so I think she'll be a juicy price. CHAMP Trainer – Nicky Henderson Came from way back to win the RSA, making up a full 10 lengths on the run in to get up close home. He oozes class and the extra couple of furlongs of the Gold Cup are tailor made for him. I feel he's still a work in progress and there's plenty more to come. He looks very special and the likeliest winner of the Blue Riband at this stage. His current odds of 12/1 look very generous to me as I expect him to be close to favourite on the day. I've already had a decent punt so hopefully all will go well throughout the season and he'll stay injury free. He goes on all ground but I think his master trainer will probably keep him away from very deep ground. All roads lead to Cheltenham but I'd imagine he'd have a tilt at the King George along the way. Merry Xmas Champ. Page | 18 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 BRIGHT FORECAST Trainer – Ben Pauling Hasn't been seen for some 18 months now so his current wellbeing is a bit of an issue but he was much improved when last seen and looked a proper chaser in the making. He finished 3rd to City Island and Champ in the Ballymore at the festival in 2019 where he came from a way back and finished better than anything up the taxing hill. With Brewinupastorm back in 4th, that form is strong and he has chaser written all over him. If things go according to plan he'll undoubtedly be aimed at the RSA at Cheltenham where he's currently a 33/1 shot but I'll like to see him back in action first before getting involved. On a track he's shown suits and with the step up to 3 miles looking ideal I've seen worse bets and he's an interesting prospect for the coming season. GOSHEN Trainer – Gary Moore Is simply a freak of nature and I'd back him against anything. He is a better horse with cut in the ground so taking short odds about him now for the Champion hurdle may not be the wisest thing to do (currently a 4/1 shot) just in case the ground comes up quick or he picks up an injury before March, but this horse doesn't only just win, he pulverises the opposition and takes his rivals out of their comfort zone a long way from home. He would have won the Triumph hurdle by double digits last year but for an unlucky fall at the last which I'm sure Jamie Moore is still having nightmares about but I wouldn't worry too much Jamie, there's far bigger pots to be won with him. Rated 157 over hurdles but currently just 88 on the flat, he has to be the best handicapped horse on the level for some time as all racing seems to come alike to him. He just turns on the turbo and gallops the opposition into submission. NATIVE RIVER Trainer – Colin Tizzard Won the 2018 Gold Cup and looked as good as ever last year in his two starts, winning both races easily. Joe and Colin Tizzard were a little in different camps after those wins, with regards to whether he ran in the Gold Cup or the Grand National but the owners were keen to have another go at the blue riband and it looked like he was probably heading to Cheltenham for one last hooray, although final plans were undecided. As things turned out it made little difference as he picked up an injury and his season was curtailed. When this year’s renewals come around, he'll be 11 and it looks pretty much a shoo in to me that he'll go down the Grand National route and he's made for the Aintree showpiece. He's already won a Hennessy Gold Cup and a Welsh Grand National and he jumps for fun. 33/1 is still available and those odds look huge to me. If he can stay injury free, he looks a major player and is my strongest National fancy for a long time. Page | 19 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Trainer to follow
Kim Bailey
Kim Bailey has trained over 1300 winners and has landed the "Big Three", The Grand National (Mr
Frisk), The Cheltenham Gold Cup (Master Oats) and The Champion Hurdle (Alderbrook). He
trains at Thorndale Farm in the Cotswolds, which is a beautiful place set in over 1000 acres. He
buys the right type of horse and the quality of animal he has nowadays has never been better. Top
prospects include Vindication, First Flow, Two For Gold, Younevercall and My Grey Sky. Stable
jockey David Bass is terrific in the saddle and not only do I anticipate him having a very good
season but I think the yard will continue to churn out the winners in the coming years and major
prizes I'm sure, are heading their way.
Jockey to follow
Danny McMenamin
Danny McMenamin (19) rose to fame when winning the Greatwood hurdle at Cheltenham on just
his third start at the revered venue. That was in 2018. Last year was even better, one that yielded
28 winners with a strike rate of better than 12.5% with 40% of his rides earning money for their
connections. He looks a future champion jockey to me. He reminds me very much of Hollie Doyle
as 90% of the time he has his horses in the right place at the right time. He's ridden 51 winners at
the moment so is entitled to claim 3lbs until he's ridden 95. He'll obviously find it tougher at the end
of that period but I'm sure he'll take it in his stride and he looks one to follow not just in the coming
season but way beyond that. He is attached to the Nicky Richards yard and rides at just 9 stone 9
so he's eligible to ride at the minimum of 10 stone which is always very handy. His favourite track
and also the toughest track to ride he believes is Carlisle. His idol is Ruby Walsh and he's a big
Liverpool fan. The horse he's looking forward to riding most this season is Nuts Well on whom he's
already won 3 times on. Aged just 19 it seems he has the world at his feet and is hungry for
success. He's also a very likeable person and I for one, am a massive fan.
Page | 20 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Ed Culham
Ed Culham Tips started with Tipsters Empire back in July 2019
and is what we call our Saturday and Festival Tipster. Ed is as
knowledgeable as they come and is an excellent writer. His blogs
and previews that he has produced, have gone down very well
his customers. He is still relatively young and is yet to reach his
full potential. His work ethic is excellent and his Saturday Service
comes highly recommended. At the time of writing, his Saturday
Service has produced 89 points profit and operates at a top class
89% return on investment.
The older and wiser Ed Culham gets, the more profit he is going
to make.
His Saturday Service starts at £30 and will cover you for a 3
month period
Jumpers to follow
ST BARTS
Trainer – Philip Hobbs
Form Figures – 155/134/21-
Four runs last season for Philip Hobbs. He won a weak Uttoxeter maiden but failed to follow up
under a penalty when beaten by two potentially smart sorts at Wincanton. After looking outpaced
there, he relished the step up to the best part of 3 miles at Ascot, winning well on handicap debut
off a mark of 118. Although he has won twice on Heavy going, his action and pedigree (out of a
Presenting dam) suggest he might be better on a sounder surface. After only 4 starts under rules
this 6 year old should have plenty more to come this season and is one to keep a close eye on if
resuming in handicaps.
Likely target
A scopey type he looks made to be a chaser and I would have thought he would be sent over the
larger obstacles this term. Potentially an RSA candidate if going chasing.
Page | 21 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 CHANTRY HOUSE Trainer – Nicky Henderson Form Figures – U11/113- Odds on for all his first three runs last season he obliged each time, progressing into a very smart horse in a short space of time (RPRs 124-139-140). Chantry House was my selection in the Supreme Novices’ last season and while I was disappointed he could not get nearer the front two on the day, that must still go down as a smart effort. The front two pulled over 10 lengths clear but Chantry House kept on well from the last and might be the sort to be suited by a step up in trip. While he is not the biggest in stature, he is a point winner in Ireland and should take well to fences. Likely target If sent over fences then the March Novices Chase might be the race for him. MORNING VICAR Trainer – Nicky Henderson Form Figures – 172/317/2F- Began last season over hurdles at Kempton where he travelled well, but was one-paced at the finish, looking guessy at his hurdles in the home straight. If anything, he showed there he had possibilities off a mark of 126, but the decision to switch quickly to fences was an understandable one. Pitched into a competitive novices’ handicap chase, his jumping left something to be desired early on, but he warmed impressively to the task as the race went on. He looked to have latched onto the bridle when taking off too early and crashing out at the fourth last. He has not been seen since, but that effort strongly suggests he is far better over the larger obstacles. Likely target May well begin his season soon in a beginners’ chase. It will be interesting to see if he proves to be a handicap prospect or better. The Close Brothers’ Novice Chase at the Festival could suit, but he might need more of a trip. AYE RIGHT Trainer – Harriet Graham Form Figures – 3122/11612241/12U15- Harriet Graham who trains near Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders sent out only 24 runners last season, for two winners. Both of those victories happened to be courtesy of the smart novice chaser Aye Right. Rated 144 over hurdles he was entitled to make up into a smart sort over fences, but that wasn’t a given after crashing out on chase debut. He then made amends by trouncing a decent rival in a match race. Ending up in the RSA he ran a huge race for a long way. Should continue his progression this season. Better on a sound surface and possibly a flatter track. Likely target Aintree might be more to his liking than Cheltenham. He may end up going for some of the big Grade Three 3 mile 2 furlong races. Page | 22 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 MASTER TOMMYTUCKER Trainer – Paul Nicholls Form Figures – 11/F/1FF- If only Tommytucker’s mind didn’t wander so frequently he would be a Grade One winning novice chaser by now. He was still travelling in both the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase and then the Pendil Novices’ Chase before having a mind aberration and coming down at the same fence in both contests (four out). That last fall put all plans for Cheltenham on hold. A year older now, Paul Nicholls might have straightened him out and in that case, he should have a serious horse on his hands. Watch his re-appearance carefully. Likely target He might be campaigned over shy of 3 miles, in which case it should be all systems go for the Ryanair. SIMPLY THE BETTS Trainer – Harry Whittington Form Figures – 13420/1184/11211- Hugely progressive last season, winning three of four novice chases, before producing a stirring display to win the Plate at the Festival. Has a tremendously game attitude, something that kept him in contention on the only occasion he lost last season, when he made countless blunders at Kempton. He doesn’t look to be crying out for a step up from that trip of two and a half miles. Likely target With improvement still likely, he could potentially be more than a Graded handicapper. Something like the Ascot Chase in February and then the Ryan Air. TRUCKERS LODGE Trainer – Paul Nicholls Form Figures – 311/42/1441221/24121- Has developed into a real doughty stayer, especially when the mud is flying. Went down a gallant runner up in a typically gruelling Welsh National, before putting his rivals to the sword next time out when demolishing the opposition in the Midlands equivalent. Thrives on heavy going, but does not seem inconvenienced by a good surface, he should have a nice prize in waiting this season. Likely target A return to Chepstow for the chance to go one better than last year must be on the cards, as should be the main event at Aintree. Page | 23 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Handicappers to follow
PORTRUSH TED
Trainer – Warren Greatrex
Form Figures – 1/2P21/1/1F-
Not easy to keep sound, but Warren Greatrex excels at getting the best out these sorts of horses.
Looked good after a year and a half off the track, when winning at Ayr carrying top-weight of 11-12
in testing conditions. Unfortunately, he came a cropper in his only other start, but he was still well
in contention when falling at the final flight at Haydock. Likes to make the running, so flat tracks
where he can seize the imitative suit well.
Likely target
Hopefully a big handicap hurdle, like the Haydock Stayers’ Hurdle will come his way as he looks
competitively weighted.
THE LAST DAY
Trainer – Evan Williams
Form Figures – 819/1341/F221/14-
Won what can be a decent novice chase at Carlisle at the end of the 2018-19 season. Looked like
he had a big handicap in him when sauntering clear on reappearance at Newbury. He could not
back that up in better company next time out, but he was probably given too much to do from the
back of the field that day. Evan Williams is mustard at placing his handicappers and this 2 mile
specialist could be one to catch first time out.
Likely target
Not all that many quality handicaps for him. They may work back from the Grand Annual, although
the ground might not suit him at that time of year.
CLOTH CAP
Trainer – Jonjo O’Neill
Form Figures - 74/54716F/3113/4328-
Flattered to deceive in four starts last season, coming closest when a neck second to a good
yardstick at Carlisle. Cloth Cap looks a raw type of horse who is slow to come to hand, but as now
an 8 year old may be up to showing more of his ability. 3 miles or further looks crucial. It may also
have been the case that soft ground isn’t ideal, which might go a way to excusing last season’s
efforts. A supremely well-bred horse, he should be winning races off a mark in the mid 130s.
Likely target
Probably below Graded level at the moment, but if putting his best foot forward he could pitch up
in the Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury.
Page | 24 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 LIOSDUIN BHEARNA Trainer – Fergal O’Brien Form Figures - U32/232211/0F1- Has been lurking on a good mark for some time and finally took advantage on his last start when running out a comfortable winner of a strong Doncaster handicap. He looked at times a bit untidy at his obstacles but saw out the extended 3 miles strongly. That came off 131, but over this trip and further he looks capable of climbing further up the handicap. Likely target Could be a Pertemps type. STRADIVARIUS DAVIS Trainer – Sandy Thomson Form Figures – 155/134/21- Sandy Thompson has a habit of bringing nice staying chasers through the ranks and he could have another one here in Stradivarius Davis. Lightly raced he was just touched off on chase debut, when going down to a smart sort of Micky Hammond’s who went on to win again in novice company. He was well on top at the finish next time out over an extended 3 miles at Catterick, proving he stays well. Looks sure to progress again this season and could be the type for marathon trips. Likely target Something like the Tommy Whittle might suit him. Page | 25 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Trainer to follow
Richard Hobson
Had his best season yet last year with 13 winners from 49 runs, for a strike rate of 27%. The rapid
ascendency of Lord Du Mesnil, who finished the season as runner up in the National Hunt Cup at
Cheltenham, certainly proved what he could do. It should be remembered that Lord Du Mesnil was
a 19 race maiden before last season. He also has a progressive handicapper in the form of Defi
Sacre who should improve further this season.
Jockey to follow
Rex Dingle
Had another fine season last time around, capped with victory in the Martin Pipe at the Festival.
There he demonstrated his latent ability guiding the tricky mare Indefatigable to an unlikely victory,
as she came from right out the back to get up in the shadows of the post. Still has 3lbs left of his
claim and should continue to offer value.
Page | 26 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021
Cotswold Racing
Cotswold Racing is our newest Tipster and he started with us
back in February 2020, before going live on the 1st September.
He had interruptions due to Covid 19 and no racing for a few
months, but he got back underway on June 1st and has not
looked back. As with all our tipsters he is as professional as they
come and quite witty with his write ups, which have gone down
well with customers.
His profits continue to increase and in the 6 months he has been
with us, at the time of writing he is 106 points in profit operating
at a return on investment of 28.00%.
Now the National Hunt Season is about to get going, a code that
he specialises in, we expect the profits to keep on increasing.
A 28 day trial is available for new customers at £2.99
Jumpers to follow
MINELLA INDO
Trainer – Henry de Bromhead
Form Figures - 3/321/1212-
Let’s start at the top and the horse I hope and expect to be top of the tree come the middle of
March next year. Minella Inho is all about staying and more importantly, all about staying at
Cheltenham. Never out of the first 3 in only 9 career runs and still only a 7 year old, there has to
be the distinct probability we have yet to see the best of this horse.
He first came to general attention when easily winning the Albert Bartlett in 2019 at 50-1, turning
round form with the highly regarded Allaho from a previous meeting at Clonmel. That day he
tanked his way round and was always in control as he stormed up the run in, hugging the rail and
looking totally in control. He then went to Punchestown and was again up against Allaho, who
strangely went off favourite. Always tracking the leader Allaho, on the final bend he swept past and
never looked in danger. We had seen the emergence of a top class stayer.
In November 2019, he started his chasing career at Gowran Park. He was keen, jumped well in
the main, but was picked up by Laurina approaching the last and out sped over an inadequate
2.4miles. He followed this up with a comfortable win at Navan in January. Personally, I would have
liked to have seen one more run before he went to Cheltenham, but despite this lack of experience
he went to Cheltenham well supported and went off the 3-1 second favourite, again to Allaho the
5-2 Fav. Minella Indo jumped like an old hand round Cheltenham. He looked firmly in control of
things until the last, when his jockey Rachael Blackmore let him wander into the fence, instead of
giving him the same kick she had at every other fence. The pair were at odds and he bungled his
way over the last. His momentum was shaken, but he still stayed on strongly past Allaho,
however, he got nutted by a remarkable rally from Champ of Nicky Henderson. As Champ went
past, you could see Minella Indo visibly rally.
Page | 27 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UKTIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 I firmly believe the second was the best horse and will prove to be the best horse in the long term. Trainer Henry De Bromhead may well again be sparing in how many times he runs Minella Indo this season. I won’t be surprised to see him beaten in some of the trials in the lead up to the Festival, but all roads will lead to Cheltenham. I have already been availing myself of the 14s for the Gold Cup over much of the summer. The record of second season chasers in the Gold Cup is exceptional. There is also a significant trend that it is rarely won by horses who have run in the race before, without winning it, which in theory narrows the field further. All grounds seem to come alike to Minella Indo, and I don’t see too many down sides to his chances. His preference for the course is already worth an extra 5 pounds and I fully expect to see him storm up the hill to victory in the Gold Cup in March, under Ms Blackmore and in the process, create one hell of a story for National Hunt racing. Likely target Cheltenham Gold Cup IMPERIAL AURA Trainer – Kim Bailey Form Figures - 31/11/31221- If there is to be a surprise challenger for the Gold Cup from leftfield, Imperial Aura could well be it. Imperial Aura has had a very modest and traditional rise through the National Hunt ranks, starting off with two runs in bumpers winning the second one at Ludlow. Despite always looking like a chaser he made an immediate impact as a hurdler winning impressively at first Carlisle, then Newcastle, keeping it all very low key. He then started the next season running in the Silver Trophy at Chepstow where he ran well enough on his final race as a hurdler, going off favourite but never quite having the pace to keep tabs on the first two. His debut chase race at Fakenham, was a 3 horse affair which he won at 1-25, telling us nothing more than that he could jump ok. He was then thrown in at the deep end, upped to 3 miles at Cheltenham where he ran a solid race behind Pym, jumping ok and perhaps looking as if, at this stage of his career, three miles was just a tad too much at this stage of his development. He seemed to stay it well enough, but wisely, the team could see there was no point bottoming him at this stage of his career. He had clearly showed plenty of speed previously and this could still be maximised in his novice season by dropping back in trip. I had the pleasure of chatting with the head of the Imperial Racing Syndicates at a stable visit to Fergal O’Brien’s on Trials Day. He informed a friend and I, that they felt Aura was potentially a Gold Cup horse. They had Imperial Call, so should know what was needed! We both instantly took a lot more notice…. The plan was the Novices 2.4 miler at the Festival, but a good run was expected at Cheltenham that day for the Trials race. We both scurried off to put as much as we dared on the Northern Trust race at 20-1! I love a good Ante Post bet! Page | 28 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
TIPSTERS EMPIRE - NATIONAL HUNT JUMPERS TO FOLLOW 2020/2021 Aura ran a solid race at the Trials meeting but was beaten, putting a small dent in our confidence. However, watching reruns of the race, we could see there was still plenty to work on. Over the next few weeks we watched and got involved as the price shortened as the Festival got closer. On the day Imperial Aura got backed into 4-1 favourite and ran like a top class 3 miler in a well-run 2.4 mile race, looking to get potentially outpaced as the taps got turned on, but his class keeping him ahead and his courage and stamina enabling him going to cross the line first. Later on in the week at the Festival, Simply the Betts won the Brown Advisory Handicap and On the Slopes, who had finished 3rd at the Trials meeting, subsequently won his two other races that season. That form looks rock solid. The only horse that troubled Imperial Aura at Cheltenham, was Galvin, of Gordon Elliott’s, who has also won both of his subsequent runs, so again, from a form perspective we have some firm foundations. Now I am not sure at only 7, if they will target the Gold Cup this season, but so far he is quoted for the Ladbrokes Trophy, an obvious stepping stone for second season chasers. Personally, I wonder if they might be tempted by a return to Cheltenham for the Paddy Power meeting. One thing is for sure, it looks like Kim Bailey has another nice prospect on his hands. Likely target Ladbrokes Trophy. FERNY HOLLOW Trainer – Willie Mullins Form Figures - 1/2211- I have to stay loyal to another winning punt I had from this year’s Festival. Last year Ferny Hollow was the talking horse from the start of the year of the Mullins Bumper crop. Two early reverses at Fairyhouse and then Leopardstown, albeit against quality opposition, meant Ferny Hollow appeared to slip down the pecking order at Mullins as we entered 2020. He reappeared at Fairyhouse in late February on Heavy ground and proceeded to demolish a reasonable field at short odds. The clue to the different performance, for me, was the hold-up ride he was given. It must have given the horse plenty of confidence too, winning that easily, without coming off the bit. Despite being relatively ignored in the market, for a horse that was a talking horse earlier in the year and who had won so easily last time out, some last money came in for Ferny Hollow. He was settled again, out the back, in the face of a breakneck pace. The favourite for the race was also trained by Mullins, Appreciate It, had travelled well into the race and I suspect many were counting their money as he cruised into the lead before the home turn. However Ferny Hollow was quietly creeping into the race under Paul Townend(a clue in itself surely) and picked up the favourite half way up the run in to win going away, despite still looking a little green. The world is his oyster this year and under Willie Mullins tutelage he will win races. I suspect, like his Bumper campaign, all eyes will be on the festival and various things will be tried en-route, to best understand how to get him to peak at Cheltenham in March. I suspect the Ballymore will be the favoured option for 2021, but have also backed him to win any race at the Festival next year, as he shows class and speed. Likely target Ballymore Hurdle. Page | 29 WWW.TIPSTERSEMPIRE.CO.UK
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