Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: Meydan, Thursday February 6

"In the final contest at 18:15 it could be worth taking a flyer on Chil The Kite who shaped much better than the bare result on his reappearance and now has the services of Richard Hughes..."

Timeform's Dubai expert, Stephen Molyneux, provides you with three selections from Meydan...

My Freedom didn't get the run of things here on his reappearance and is well worth another chance in the opening thoroughbred contest at 15:15. His defeat of Solar Deity at Wolverhampton in October remains the race to be judging him on, that form franked several times subsequently, and My Freedom was never really given the opportunity to show what he could do behind Fulbright on his return, held up and not knocked about. He finished a neck ahead of Jamesie, who came out and won next time, and there is every chance of My Freedom doing the same granted a bit of luck in running. 

The ageless Star Empire still seems to be getting better and he is the one to be on in the staying handicap at 17:05. He got the better of Ahzeemah in this corresponding event 12 months ago before finishing third behind the same horse next time, and then wasn't beaten too far by Cavalryman in the Dubai Gold Cup itself. He is 7 lb higher this time around, but his reappearance when staying on into third behind Sheikhzayedroad suggested he could be better than ever this season, a point he can prove back over this more suitable trip.  

In the final contest at 18:15 it could be worth taking a flyer on Chil The Kite who shaped much better than the bare result on his reappearance and now has the services of Richard Hughes. He pulled his way round much of that contest won by Alexandra Palace, but was repeatedly denied a run up the rail and barely had a race, certainly doing more than enough to suggest he has returned in very good form. He was racing out of his grade for much of last season, not beaten far by the likes of Declaration Of War and Farhh in Group 1 contests, and this looks a good opportunity for him to gain a well-deserved win. 

Timeform Dubai SmartPlays
Back My Freedom in the 15:15
Back Star Empire in the 17:05
Back Chil The Kite in the 18:15

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Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: Meydan, Thursday January 2

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Dubai World Cup: Planteur primed for World Cup bid

Planteur is reported to have settled in well at Meydan as he bids to improve on last year's third place in the Dubai World Cup...

Planteur is reported to have settled in well at Meydan as he bids to improve on last year's third place in the Dubai World Cup...

The six-year-old was in the frame for trainer Marco Botti in 2012 and he warmed up for the trip with a comfortable success at in a Listed event at Lingfield last month.

With Botti remaining at home to supervise Solar Deity's bid for the Lincoln, his wife Lucia is doing the honours at the Emirates' flagship racecourse and she expressed her delight in the way Planteur moved in some light work on the track on Tuesday morning.

She said: "Whatever happens with him, we think he's in better form than last year when he ran a fine race to finish third. Obviously we are now hoping that he gets the luck of the draw."

Trainer Michael Bell, who arrived in Dubai last night, was on hand to supervise his globetrotter Wigmore Hall ahead of the Dubai Duty Free. Also engaging in light work were David Simcock's pair of I'm A Dreamer and Trade Storm.

John Oxx's Saddler's Rock worked well under Jim O'Neill on Monday ahead of the two-mile Dubai Gold Cup while the Hong Kong trio of Eagle Regiment, Frederick Engels and Joy And Fun attracted plenty of press attention as they enjoyed a spin.

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Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: Meydan Super Saturday, March 9

"...it seems reasonable to assume Igugu will again be very popular based on her reputation and it could be worth opposing her with Sharestan."

Our Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux looks at Meydan's own Super Saturday card, picking out his three best bets.

Races for the classic generation at the Carnival have once again failed to set the pulse racing this year, and the Al Bastikiya at 13:05 is no different, but one horse who should go well is Snowboarder who finished second to Soft Falling Rain last time. It's fair to say he's not the classiest in the line-up, but he's consistent and, more importantly, looks sure to stay this far which is question mark that hangs over several of his rivals. He is still to finish out of the first three in seven career outings and he was the only one gaining on Soft Falling Rain in the UAE 2000 Guineas last time. He was relatively unconsidered in the betting that day, and there is a chance that could happen again with Mike de Kock having a couple of entries and Saeed bin Suroor the same, but they all have something to prove and it could be a case of Snowboarder merely needing to replicate that last run to come out on top. 

Moonwalk In Paris made a very impressive start for Mahmood Al Zarooni when taking the Firebreak Stakes last time and he can follow up in the Burj Nahaar at 15:25. This will undoubtedly be a tougher test with the likes of Dullahan and African Story in there, but it seems reasonable to assume that they will need the outing ahead of bigger targets on World Cup night and Moonwalk In Paris can have pretensions to reach that level himself, looking every inch a Group 1 horse when beating Fulbright last time. He has only once finished out of the first three throughout his career and he should get the sound pace here that he clearly relished last time, Royal Ridge, Nawwaar, Unbridled Ocean and Red Jazz all potential pace angles. Ahmed Ajtebi keeps the ride which could lead people into thinking Godolphin have more fancied runners in the race, but Ajtebi was on board last time and it simply looks a case of him keeping the ride having done well on him previously. 

Hard to know how the betting will go in the final race at 16:35, but it seems reasonable to assume Igugu will again be very popular based on her reputation and it could be worth opposing her with Sharestan. The selection did finish behind The Apache last time but met plenty of trouble that day, barely having a race, and he could easily have finished ahead of The Apache had things panned out differently. He had made a hugely encouraging debut for Godolphin prior to that and he is well worth another chance to build on that promise with the likely strong pace sure to be in his favour.

Timeform Dubai Smartplays
Back Snowboarder in the 13:05
Back Moonwalk In Paris in the 15:25
Back Sharestan in the 16:35

Download your Timeform card for Meydan now!

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Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: World Cup Card, Saturday March 31

Tipping / Stephen Molyneux / 30 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Jeremy Noseda: Trains Meydan nap Western Aristocrat

"Jeremy Noseda has an excellent record with his runners in Dubai and Western Aristocrat was just beginning to really get his act together towards the end of last year..."

Timeform Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux brings you his SmartPlay selections for the $10 million Dubai World Cup card...

14:10 - African Story will be the strongest favourite of the night in the opening Godolphin Mile but the value lies elsewhere, specifically with Western Aristocrat. Jeremy Noseda has an excellent record with his runners in Dubai and Western Aristocrat was just beginning to really get his act together towards the end of last year, winning a Grade 1 in America and also finishing a fine third in the Hollywood Derby on his final outing. His form has more depth and hopefully he can get us off to a good start.

14:45 - The Dubai Gold Cup looks a match between Fox Hunt and Opinion Poll and that is the order in which I think they will finish. Jockey bookings suggest otherwise but my take on Frankie Dettori riding Opinion Poll is that he is a tricky horse and Dettori knows him well whilst Fox Hunt was a regular ride for Silvestre de Sousa last year so it makes sense to go that way. Fox Hunt has more to offer at this trip and should hopefully confirm form with Opinion Poll from their running in the Nad Al Sheba Trophy last time.

15:25 - Aidan O'Brien sends his strongest ever team to Dubai and Wrote could be the first of potentially at least two winners for Ballydoyle when he takes his chance in the UAE Derby. Wrote progressed with each run last year, culminating in victory in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf and a reproduction of that effort should see him have too much for the likes of Mickdaam and stablemate Daddy Long Legs.

16:00 - The Al Quoz Sprint is hugely competitive and it wouldn't surprise me if the whole field are priced up at double figures on Betfair. I will probably back a couple as I love tackling these sprints and Addictive Dream will be high on the list having really impressed me in Dubai this year. He won both his races on turf and shaped as if still in form on tapeta last time when again trying to slip his field over two furlongs out but having nothing left on the more demanding surface. The other one to throw in the mix is Prohibit, who had valid excuses for his defeat last time and is over-priced as a result.

16:35 - The other sprint on the card, the Dubai Golden Shaheen, is less competitive in terms of depth but just as difficult to solve. The Australiians will be cheering on Sepoy, the Americans Giant Ryan and The Factor whilst old favourite Rocket Man will also have plenty of support, but I prefer Krypton Factor who has really impressed me since reverting to six furlongs. A tough juvenile for Sir Mark Prescott, he has really thrived of late and had plenty in hand when beating Hitchens last time despite enduring a wide trip. He should stalk the pace from stall five and hopefully Kieren Fallon will be able to make his move at the two-furlong marker and prove hard to run down.

17:25 - The Dubai Duty Free regularly eclipses the Dubai World Cup for strength in depth and this year's renewal is no different. The Hong Kong challenge is really strong, to the point of me almost deserting my old mate Mutahadee, but Mike de Kock simply can't not have a winner on this card given his unwavering support for the Dubai Racing Carnival as a whole and Mutahadee could be his best chance. He positively bolted up on his first two starts this season and simply had too much to do when third behind Master Of Hounds in the Jebel Hatta last time, still showing a fine turn of foot to get into a challenging position at all. He has been well backed since the markets for this race opened and hopefully his supporters will be collecting their rand come the finish.

18:00 - Godolphin seem sure to have a winner at some point and I'm hoping that Cavalryman will do the business in the Dubai Sheema Classic. It's easy to forget that Cavalryman finished third in the Arc back in 2009 and it's just as easy to remember that he hasn't really threatened to win a race since then. That might be about to change, however, after an encouraging comeback that saw him run on strongly into second behind Mikhail Glinka in the Dubai City Of Gold recently. He wouldn't be the first horse to revive all of a sudden and whilst Sir Nicholas Abbey and Cirrus Des Aigles will provide stiff opposition, Cavalryman represents the each-way value.

18:40 - My take on the Dubai World Cup can be read HERE and in truth my opinion hasn't changed in the seven days since I wrote that. So You Think was shortened in the aftermath of the barrier draw and it's not hard to see why. As I said, he needs keeping safe in any staking plan whilst I have been encouraged by the confidence surrounding Eishin Flash who is the each-way selection.

Timeform SmartPlays

Back Western Aristocrat to win the 14:10 (nap)
Back Fox Hunt to win the 14:45
Back Wrote to win the 15:25
Back Addictive Dream and Prohibit to win the 16:00
Back Krypton Factor to win the 16:35
Back Mutahadee to win the 17:25
Back Cavalyrman to win and place in the 18:00
Back So You Think to win the 18:40, back Eishin Flash to win and place
........
Visit timeform.com to download a race card for Dubai World Cup night.

The world's richest race, the $10 million Dubai World Cup at Meydan on Saturday March 31, has attracted a star-studded fourteen-runner field. Timeform give you their assessment of the race, runner by runner.......

Timeform's Australian team provide you with their three best bets on a Group 1 card at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday......

Timeform's North American team give readers three more bets for Friday evening's action......

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Dubai World Cup: Timeform runner-by-runner guide

Dubai / Timeform / 30 March 2012 / 1 Comments

Who will win the $10 million Dubai World Cup at Meydan?

"So You Think... can add another Group 1 win to his CV."

The world's richest race, the $10 million Dubai World Cup at Meydan on Saturday March 31, has attracted a star-studded fourteen-runner field. Timeform give you their assessment of the race, runner by runner....

Master of Hounds (Mike de Kock/Christophe Soumillon) was just denied in the UAE Derby last year for Aidan O'Brien, and made breakthrough at top level when making all to win Jebel Hatta earlier this month. Unlikely to get his own way here, however.

Eishin Flash (Hideaki Fujiwara/Christophe Lemaire) is a smart performer who won Japanese Derby back in 2010. Continued to run creditably at the top level since, runner-up in Group 1 Arima Kinen on Christmas Day. Could go well at a decent price.

Zazou (Waldemar Hickst/Olivier Peslier) is a smart German-trained runner who beat Rio de La Plata when winning Premio Roma in November. Ended year by finishing third in Hong Kong Cup and claimed scalp of Cirrus des Aigles on reappearance.

So You Think (Aidan O'Brien/Joseph O'Brien) was top class in Australia and won Tattersalls Gold Cup, Eclipse and Irish Champion Stakes in first European campaign last year. Should have few problems on this surface and could prove tough to beat.

Smart Falcon (Ken Kozaki/Yutaka Take) is a high-class Japanese front-runner who has won 23 races in his career, including his last 9. Warmed up for this with easy success in listed race in January, and worthy of plenty of respect.

Planteur (Marco Botti/Ryan Moore) looked set for excellent campaign in 2011 when winning first 2 starts, including Prix Ganay. Didn't go on as expected after that, but claims if new yard can get him firing on all cylinders.

Royal Delta (William Mott/Jose Lezcano) was a dual Grade 1 winner in 2011, winning both the Alabama Stakes and the Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic. Not disgraced over inadequate trip on return last month, and should be spot on here.

Monterosso (Mahmood Al Zarooni/Mickael Barzalona) performed creditably in light campaign last year, winning Dubai City of Gold then finishing third in this race. Should be sharper for recent return when fourth to Capponi.

Silver Pond (Doug Watson/Johnny Murtagh) was formerly trained in France by Freddie Head where he won Group 2 at Chantilly last year. Encouraging start for this yard when runner-up to Capponi, but more needed to feature here.

Transcend (Takayuki Yasuda/Shinji Fujita) has a good strike rate and only narrowly denied in this race last year. Since won 2 of his 4 starts, although wasn't at his best when midfield in Group One February Stakes last time.

Capponi (Mahmood Al Zarooni/Ahmed Ajtebi) has continued to progress this year, winning his last 2 starts, latest when beating Silver Pond in Round 3 of Maktoum Challenge. Entitled to a crack at this level.

Prince Bishop (Saeed bin Suroor/Frankie Dettori) has done well since visored, and produced career-best when winning handicap here in January. Only third behind Capponi last time, and difficult to see him proving good enough to win this.

Mendip (Saeed bin Suroor/Silvestre de Sousa) is lightly-raced, but has a good strike rate and won Round 2 of Maktoum Challenge in February. Not in same form when behind Capponi last time, and this tough race in which to bounce back.

Game On Dude (Bob Baffert/Chantal Sutherland) is a consistent performer who won 3 times during 2011 before running best race when second in Breeders' Cup Classic. Tuned up for this by winning Grade 2 at Santa Anita last month.

Timeform 1-2-3
1. So You Think
2. Eishin Flash
3. Smart Falcon

Timeform View: The Japanese-trained Victoire Pisa won this last year and the Japanese are well represented again in a bid to follow-up. The pick of their trio may be Eishin Flash, whilst the prolific Smart Falcon also warrants plenty of respect. However, they may struggle to cope with So You Think, and this globe-trotting star can add another Group 1 win to his CV.

Visit timeform.com to download a race card for Dubai World Cup night.

Timeform Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux brings you his SmartPlay selections for the $10 million Dubai World Cup card......

War, huh, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing apparently. Jamie Lynch takes Edwin Starr to task by suggesting that, rightly or wrongly, war sometimes has its place in framing sporting events, and the Dubai World Cup is one that could benefit from a little extra drama....

"The weather is crap". A direct quote from a Dubai resident as the welcome breeze takes the edge of a temperature soaring into the 30's. Things are also beginning to hot up in advance of the World Cup on Saturday as Timeform's Dubai handicapper, Stephen Molyneux, takes you through some more musings from his days in the desert....

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Dubai World Cup: Mott eyes historic win

News / Timeform / 29 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Royal Delta will take her chance in the Dubai World Cup.

“She's got many things going for her. The one thing we don't know is whether she is good enough..."

There will be a certain sense of symmetry if Royal Delta wins Saturday's Dubai World Cup for her American trainer Bill Mott...

After all, Mott saddled the winner of the inaugural running, two-time American Horse of the Year Cigar, in 1996 and now has Royal Delta striving to be the first filly or mare to triumph in the world's richest race.

The 58-year-old Mott has put a lot of thought into Royal Delta's attempt to enter the Dubai World Cup record books.

Even before Royal Delta was proclaimed America's champion three-year-old filly of 2011, Mott was planning a Dubai assault.

And when Benjamin Leon, who races under Besilu Stables, spent US$8.5 million to buy Royal Delta at auction last November from the estate of her breeder, the late Saudi Prince Saud bin Khaled, Mott shared his vision with the owner.

"As her trainer, I told him up front that the Dubai World Cup would be the perfect place to take her," said Mott, a US Hall of Fame inductee 13 years ago.

"She's got many things going for her. The one thing we don't know is whether she is good enough.

"The distance doesn't seem to be a factor; she's won over 2000m. She's won races on a synthetic track. She's won under the lights and she doesn't need any medication to speak of.

"She's jumped through a lot of the hoops that you have to clear to win here."

After the purchase Leon decided to leave the filly with Mott rather than transfer her to another trainer and it did not take him long to embrace the idea of trying to win the Dubai World Cup.

"He spent a lot of money for her and obviously the filly is a champion. But he's an owner who is clearly willing to take risks. It didn't take much convincing to talk him into it," Mott said.

Royal Delta, the seventh female performer to run in the World Cup, is training with the same enthusiasm she displayed prior to her victory in last year's Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic at Churchill Downs, according to Mott.

"She's quite determined, and she uses it to her advantage," Mott said.

Royal Delta, rated 124 by Timeform, can currently be backed at [14.5] for the Dubai World Cup with current market leader So You Think trading at [3.4].

The kiwi representation in Saturday's Group 1 Rosehill Guineas (off 06:10 GMT) over 2000m is one of the strongest in recent memory with NZ Derby-winning filly Silent Achiever leading the charge, writes Timeform Australia's Gary Crispe......

With Japanese runners filling the first two places in last year's Dubai World Cup, the country's three representative's in Saturday's $10-million race run over 2000m on Meydan's tapeta surface will be worth serious consideration......

The draw for the Dubai World Cup was made on Wednesday afternoon with ante-post favourite So You Think handed stall number four......

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Dubai World Cup News: O'Brien team in good shape

Dubai / Timeform / 27 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

The O'Brien family have plenty of chances on World Cup night in Dubai

"O'Brien has sent six high-profile runners for the richly-endowed Meydan meeting..."

So You Think and Aidan O'Brien's large contingent of Dubai runners have arrived safely in the Gulf ahead of Saturday's World Cup meeting...

O'Brien has sent six high-profile runners for the richly-endowed Meydan meeting, with Eclipse and Irish Champion Stakes winner So You Think (Timeform master rating of 131) topping the bill in the Dubai World Cup itself.

Three-year-olds Daddy Long Legs (116) and Wrote (118p) are entered in the UAE Derby while very smart older horses Await The Dawn (126) (Dubai Duty Free), St Nicholas Abbey (127) and Treasure Beach (120) (Dubai Sheema Classic) are also in action.

Pat Keating, O'Brien's travelling head lad, said: "The horses all travelled well, and arrived here in good order, no problems whatsoever.

"They have all had uninterrupted preparations in Ireland, the weather back home over the winter has been OK.

"We have a bigger team here this year than in the past, and I'd say they all come here with chances."

While Godolphin trainers Mahmood Al Zarooni and Saeed Bin Suroor both have runners in the Dubai World Cup, the only horse to be permanently trained in Britain is Planteur (123).

The Prix Ganay winner has been transferred from Elie Lellouche to Marco Botti in Newmarket for this season.

Botti's wife, Lucia, said: "He arrived on Monday and travelled over very well. I am happy with him and he will be out on the track on Thursday and Friday mornings."

Botti also gave a leg-stretch to ex-O'Brien runner Joshua Tree, who has raced three times at Meydan this year and steps up to two miles for the Dubai Gold Cup.

"He is well, came out of his last race fine and is fit and ready to go," she said.

"I think he should stay the distance as he was fifth in the St Leger as a three-year-old and I have definitely seen an improvement in him while he has been out here.

"His final piece of work was on the grass and we are now just keeping his routine going in the build-up to Saturday."

The yard's third runner is Jakkalberry (116) in the Sheema Classic.

Likely to be seen later in the week is John Quinn's UAE Derby contender Red Duke (112).

Last year's Superlative Stakes winner is still in the shake-up for the Qipco 2000 Guineas.

Quinn said "He arrived from Heathrow at 7.30 Monday night, and he travelled and ate and drank well.

"I'm impressed with what I've seen of Meydan so far. We'll have a look at the track tomorrow, and he'll probably go out on the all-weather on Thursday. Tom Queally will have a sit on him."
...........
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Peter Snowden's Helmet and Sepoy head a strong Australian challenge at the Dubai World Cup meeting and, according to Timeform ratings, both will be strong contenders in their respective races says handicapper Stephen Molyneux.......

Champion Stakes winner Cirrus des Aigles will come from stall eight as he attempts to win the Dubai Sheema Classic on March 31.......

Most British-trained runners fared poorly when the draw for the Dubai Duty Free was announced on Monday......

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Dubai World Cup: O'Brien to ride So You Think in Meydan showpiece?

News / Timeform / 20 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Joseph O'Brien

"O'Brien became the youngest ever jockey to win at the Breeders' Cup meeting when partnering another possible Dubai mount, St Nicholas Abbey..."

Joseph O'Brien has played down speculation linking him with the mount on So You Think in the Dubai World Cup on Saturday week.

Trained by his father Aidan O'Brien, Timeform 131-rated six-year-old entire So You Think is favourite for the $10million Dubai World Cup at Meydan on the back of a solid first season in Europe after joining Ballydoyle from Australia.

O'Brien became the youngest ever jockey to win at the Breeders' Cup meeting when partnering another possible Dubai mount, St Nicholas Abbey (Timeform rating 127), to a famous victory in the Turf.

With Ryan Moore, a jockey O'Brien snr repeatedly turned to in the big races last season, apparently lined up to partner current [22.0]-shot Planteur for Marco Botti or Silver Pond ([21.0]), many believed it paved the way for the youngster to take the most important ride of his career.

However, while several horses trained at Ballydoyle appeared among the 'likely fields' released by the Dubai Racing Club at the weekend, the jockey revealed that none are yet definite runners.

"As yet we're not quite sure what's going and what's not going," said O'Brien.

"I haven't been told what I'll be riding and all the horses still have a couple of pieces of work to be done.

"Nothing is 100% certain to be going just yet."

So You Think is currently trading as the [4.3] favourite for the Dubai World Cup on Saturday March 31, while O'Brien may also renew his association with unbeaten RP Trophy winner Camelot this season, the 117P-rated three-year-old current market leader for both the 2000 Guineas ([3.6]) and Epsom Derby ([3.5]).

..........
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Jason Maguire believes Cinders And Ashes will have learnt plenty from his Supreme Novices' Hurdle victory at the Cheltenham Festival......

Twenty horses were announced at the five-day stage for the Winter Derby on Monday, with Premio Loco currently heading the field......

Trainer Noel Glynn is looking forward to the John Smith's Grand National with Becauseicouldntsee after his fine run in defeat in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup......

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Dubai World Cup Night: Sepoy & Helmet arrive safely

Dubai / Timeform / 10 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Sepoy: Has touched down safely in Dubai along with Helmet

"They are pretty much there fitness-wise and we couldn't be happier with them."

Top Australian performers Sepoy and Helmet, intended runners on World Cup night on March 31, have reportedly arrived safely in Dubai...

Paul Snowden, son of trainer Peter Snowden, accompanied Sepoy and Helmet on the flight from Sydney to Dubai via Hong Kong.

He reported on http://www.godolphin.com "Sepoy and Helmet both travelled excellently. They were very alert and fresh in their attitude and have been eating very well.

"They are looking good and have settled in very, very well at the Dubai World Cup Quarantine Centre."

Paul Snowden added: "They will be ridden on Monday but there is no rush as there is plenty of time until March 31.

"They are pretty much there fitness-wise and we couldn't be happier with them."

Sepoy, who is on the comeback trail after a disappointing reappearance, will be aimed at the Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen over six furlongs on Tapeta, while Helmet, who was also beaten on his recent comeback, is due to contest the Group 2 UAE Derby over nine and a half furlongs on Tapeta.

Kerrin McEvoy has been booked to ride both horses who will race for Peter Snowden on Dubai World Cup night before joining a Godolphin trainer.

Timeform Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux gives you his best bets on Meydan's Super Saturday card......

Timeform provide a runner-by-runner guide to what looks an excellent renewal of the Group 1 Jebel Hatta at Meydan......

Having successfully tipped Wealthy at a Betfair SP of [7.6] at Meydan on Saturday, Timeform's Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux brings you three for Friday's card at Jebel Ali......

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Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: Friday March 9

Tipping / Stephen Molyneux / 08 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

James Doyle: Rides Moannaa

"The remainder all look fully exposed and have their limitations so it really does look a good opportunity for Moannaa to add to that initial success."

Having successfully tipped Wealthy at a Betfair SP of [7.6] at Meydan on Saturday, Timeform's Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux brings you three for Friday's card at Jebel Ali...

There are two big sprints at Meydan on Saturday, races that Alo Pura could easily have figured in but Dhruba Selvaratnam has opted to run her in the calmer waters of the listed event at 11:35 and hopefully that move will pay dividends. She has had another profitable campaign, winning at the track in December before catching the eye on her next two starts at Meydan, not getting much luck on either occasion. She still managed to finish third behind Hitchens last time and a reproduction of that form should be good enough, particularly as this should be run to suit; Kilt Rock, Russian Rock, Spin Cycle, Silaah and Star Crowned all potential front-runners who can help set it up for her.

The handicap at 12:10 looks a competitive affair but it will be easier than the races Step In Line has been contesting and he is fancied to take advantage of a drop in the weights after a couple of below-par efforts. He started the season well, finishing second off a mark of 95 behind Mureb before holding his own in a minor event won by Atlantic Brave. He hasn't really featured behind Treble Jig and He'sminenotyours on his last two outings but then again he was hardly entitled too and his mark of 93 should ensure he is far more of a threat than has been the case recently.

There isn't much strength to the 12:45 and it can go to Moannaa, who still has plenty more scope for improvement and should make a bold bid to make his handicap debut a winning one. He only made it to the track once when in the care of Roger Varian, finishing fourth behind Songburst at Kempton, and probably only needed to run to a similar level when comfortably beating Moonlight Dash at the course last time. Moonlight Dash has won since and reopposes on the same terms, and whilst that one also has some potential, it's still hard to see him reversing form. The remainder all look fully exposed and have their limitations so it really does look a good opportunity for Moannaa to add to that initial success.

Timeform SmartPlays

Back Alo Pura in the 11:35
Back Step In Line in the 12:10
Back Moannaa in the 12:45

Timeform provide a runner-by-runner guide for the hunter chase on the Leicester card......

The quality dial is set low once again in this pre-Cheltenham week, but Harry Bowles is soldiering on regardless with three picks from today's Carlisle and Wincanton fare...

Massive price available on today's 80/20 bet - will you follow?...

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Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: Saturday March 3

Tipping / Stephen Molyneux / 02 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Harry Bentley: Rides Lord Tiger

"Lord Tiger was selected in this column last time and although only finishing fourth behind Garbah, that doesn’t really tell the whole story..."

There's a fair card at Meydan on Saturday and following these three SmartPlays from Timeform's Dubai expert Stephen Molyneux should hopefully ensure a profit...

Maath Gool remains with potential after just four starts and hopefully he will come on enough for his recent return to reverse form with Rutland Boy and land the 15:10. His form last season makes for good reading, and there was enough encouragement in his third place over seven furlongs in January to suggest he is well handicapped off a mark of 81. He loomed up briefly before the lack of a recent run began to tell and, with every indication pointing to him staying this extra furlong, it will be disappointing if he can't go close.

Lord Tiger was selected in this column last time and although only finishing fourth behind Garbah, that doesn't really tell the whole story and he can put that right and take the sprint at 16:20. He effectively lost all chance with a slow start, something that will hopefully prove a one-off, and he made up an encouraging amount of ground late on to suggest he remains at the top of his game. The form of his win prior to that is strong and he is well worth another chance.

The final selection comes in the concluding handicap at 17:30 and I'm going to take a chance on Wealthy who hinted last time that he could be on the way back. It's fair to say he's been a disappointment since joining Saeed bin Suroor as there is nothing wrong with his French form (he split Prince Bishop and Rajsaman back in 2010) and, whilst it's clearly pushing it to suggest he can get back to that level, there was more than enough encouragement in his seventh to Zain Shamardal last time to suggest this mark can be defied. He was badly hampered just as things were beginning to take shape and hopefully he can get a cleaner run through this time.

Timeform SmartPlays

Back Maath Gool in the 15:10
Back Lord Tiger in the 16:20
Back Wealthy in the 17:30

Timeform provide a runner-by-runner guide to the Greatwood Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday......

Two winners yesterday, at BSPs of [4.2] and [3.26], ensure that Timeform's US team head into Friday evening confident of further success......

Will Nick's selection teach the field a lesson this afternoon?...

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Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: Thursday March 1

Tipping / Stephen Molyneux / 01 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

David Simock: Trains Ottoman Empire

"...with the drop in trip expected to suit Ottoman Empire (has travelled notably well on both outings), he should go close."

The Dubai World Cup Carnival continues at Meydan, which means another three SmartPlays from Timeform's Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux...

The opening contest at 14:30 isn't the strongest by any means and hopefully the presence of the Mahmood Al Zarooni-trained Counterglow will ensure a reasonable price about Factory Time, who looks sure to get the run of things and can take some pegging back. We know all there is to know about Factory Time having endured an extensive juvenile campaign when in the care of Mick Channon, but he held his form throughout and he's largely done the same in Dubai this year. He made all to win a minor event on his penultimate start and his latest effort can easily be forgiven, not seeming to get home in a more competitive race over a mile. Fiscal did finish ahead of him that day but the drop in trip will suit Factory Time and with temperament misgivings hanging over Counterglow, Factory Time looks the one to be on.

Ottoman Empire missed the whole of 2011 but he hasn't shown any ill-effects from that in two outings this year and he can build on those efforts and land the mile-and-a-quarter handicap at 15:05. He was prolific in his time with David Lanigan, never finishing out of the first two on polytrack, and he showed comparable form on the tapeta surface when third behind Spring of Fame and Jamr last time. The strength of that race was highlighted by that pair last week (they finished first and second again) and with the drop in trip expected to suit Ottoman Empire (has travelled notably well on both outings), he should go close.

The 15:45 is possibly the weakest sprint to be run at the Carnival so far this year in terms of depth and it provides a good opportunity for Kanaf, who's continued to go the right way in Dubai this season. He caught the eye on more than one occasion for Ed Dunlop in 2011 and finally produced the smart performance he's always looked capable of when winning a minor event at Jebel Ali on his penultimate start. He then did well to finish second to Happy Dubai on tapeta last time having conceded first run and, whilst he doesn't always look the easiest of rides, he still appeals as being the likeliest winner.

Timeform SmartPlays
Back Factory Time to win the 14:30
Back Ottoman Empire to win the 15:05
Back Kanaf to win the 15:45
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Visit timeform.com to download a race card for Thursday's meeting at Meydan.

David Cleary is focusing on a pair of Donald McCain's horses at Ludlow where the in-form trainer holds three entries...

A trappy betting card at Thurles this afternoon, but Timeform's Irish team have managed to come up with two win bets and a place lay in the hope of keeping this column's readers in profit....

Can Nick's selection beat the Reste of the field at Ludlow today?...

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Dubai Tennis Championships: Can Murray upset Djokovic bros?

Events / Sean Calvert / 27 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Can Andy prevail in Dubai?

"Djokovic is the favourite to take a fourth straight Dubai title and he’s not an awful price at around [2.38], but it’s worth taking a chance with Murray this week at palatable [8.0]."

It's a family affair in Dubai this week for the world number one, but Sean Calvert fancies a wager on Andy Murray at more attractive odds...

We were unlucky with our bet on Milos Raonic in Memphis last week, but as the Canadian reached the final, he was available to lay at [1.33] from the initial [3.5].

The ATP Tour moves on to Dubai, Acapulco and Delray Beach this week, with the world's top stars drawn to the $1.7 million prize pot on offer at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

Shamelessly, the tournament has given wildcards to three-time defending champion, Novak Djokovic's brother Marco and Victoria Azarenka's boyfriend Sergei Bubka.

For the record, Marco Djokovic is ranked 867 in the world and has been playing with little success in Futures events in Turkey lately, while Bubka is the world number 158 and has one Challenger title to his name from back in 2009.

So, instead of handing the valuable wild cards to deserving causes, the tournament has gone for the 'it's not what you know but who you know' option and given them to friends and family of the male and female world number ones.

The draw has paired Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Janko Tipsarevic and Tomas Berdych together in the top half, along with Nikolay Davydenko and Ivan Ljubicic.

The bottom half sees Federer, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Mardy Fish, Juan Martin Del Potro, Richard Gasquet, and Alexandr Dolgopolov as the main contenders.

Unsurprisingly, Novak Djokovic is the favourite to take a fourth straight Dubai title and he's not an awful price at around [2.38], but it's worth taking a chance with Murray this week at more palatable [8.0].

The Scot normally indulges in his traditional post-Melbourne malaise at this time of the year, but with Ivan Lendl looking on, Murray is more likely to make a fist of this event than he has done in the last few years.

Two quarter-final exits have been Murray's best showings here, but he'll surely put in a better effort this time to show not just Lendl, but everyone else as well, that he's edging closer to the top three after his Melbourne performances.

He pushed Nole very close in their Australian Open semi and he leads the world number one 4-2 in matches on outdoor hard-courts over the best of three sets.

A concern for the Scot would be the likely match he faces against Tomas Berdych in the last eight here this week.

Murray hasn't beaten the Czech since 2005 and for my money, Berdych is a decent long shot this week at around the [29] mark.

The Berdman has been playing well so far in 2012 with a win in Montpelier and a semi-final in Rotterdam to add to his Australian Open effort. He reached the semi-finals here last year before retiring against Djokovic in what was a tight match and he could go close again this time.

The only other player with chances in the top half of the draw is Tipsarevic, who is priced up this week at around the [50.0] mark, but it's hard to see him beating Djokovic, Murray/Berdych and then probably Federer in consecutive matches.

Tipsy hasn't been in the best touch this year either and was thrashed by Gasquet in Melbourne and beaten in Marseille by Michael Llodra last week. In the bottom half, I expect Federer to be the man to reach the final, as he has a fairly straightforward looking quarter, with the inconsistent Fish perhaps an obstacle before a likely semi-final against either Del Potro or Tsonga.

Delpo will surely be a touch jaded after two finals in two weeks and I can't see him busting a gut here with Indian Wells just around the corner. In any case, Federer has his number at the moment.

Tsonga looks a better prospect for semi final material, but the big Frenchman hasn't kicked on from his fine end to 2011 and he has something to prove this week. To sum up then, Djokovic is the obvious choice, but at a bigger price I'll take a chance on Murray with a small saver on Berdych.

If you fancy a real outsiders shot this week, consider Ernests Gulbis, who is around [22.0] to win at Delray Beach. Ernie has no form whatsoever with a stack of first round losses to his name, but he came here in 2010 with similar form and won it.

On the basis that he might well enjoy this event more than most, and the fact that he has a very handy draw in the bottom half, he's worth thinking about this week.

Recommended Bet
Back Murray at around [8.0]

Long shot
Berdych at around [29.0]

Follow Sean on Twitter @seancalvert1

Roger Federer did the business for Sean last week as Milos Raonic was winning a tournament of his own over in San Jose. And it is Raonic who is worth backing again this week, as the ATP tour moves to...

Sean Calvert isn't often in the business of tipping the tournament favourite but these days Roger Federer can be backed at odds-against. This is a tournament where he has a good record and is on a fast surface he'll like,...

Working out who is going to win each quarter is half of the way to working out how to make a profit on the winner market of this event. Gary Boswell separates the value back-to-lays from the poor value bets....

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Dubai Daily: Jebel Ali Sprint Prep, Friday, Jebel Ali 11:35

Race of the Day / Timeform / 24 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Ryan Moore: Rides Kilt Rock

"Kilt Rock started this season with a Timeform rating of 78. He is now up to 117 after a remarkable sequence that has seen him win 4 handicaps and finish second in a minor event last time."

Timeform take a look at the runners for a very competitive five-furlong minor event at Jebel Ali on Friday...

Mujaazef started this season on fire with 3 straight wins, also running well when second to Alo Pura. Not quite in the same form recently but still one of the more likelier candidates at these weights.

Moonreach was a useful performer for Paul Deegan in Ireland, his sole success in 2011 coming in a minor event at Dundalk. Faces a stiff task on these terms on first start for new yard.

Rock Jock is a carnival regular and won listed race at Chester in 2011 for Tracey Collins. Has virtually refused on 2 of his 3 starts this year and impossible to fancy.

Fityaan was progressive for Barry Hills in 2011, and a couple of good efforts for this yard when runner-up in handicaps at Abu Dhabi. This far harder and expected to struggle.

Forjatt progressed well for Roger Varian last year, running his best race when second in a handicap at Newmarket. Just as good for this yard, but ground to make up with Kilt Rock on latest running.

Kilt Rock has really thrived this season, winning 4 handicaps and excelling himself when second to Kanaf in a minor event last time. No reason why that should flatter him and looks the one to beat here.

League Champion hasn't won for a while and still to prove he retains much ability having finishing well held on his 4 completed starts this season. Others readily preferred.

Murbeh was winless in 2011 for Brian Meehan but was progressive and could have rectified that on final start had he not unseated approaching final 1f. Hasn't really threatened for this yard, however.

Ritual was lightly raced for Jeremy Noseda, winning 4 of his 7 starts. Seemed to go off the boil towards the end of last year and faces a stiff task on first outing for new yard.

Russian Rock has looked held in minor events this season before routing his field in a handicap in December. Struggled off higher marks subsequently but will find this more to his liking so respected.

Star Crowned was smart in his prime but looked a shadow of that in 2011 and has something to prove having not been seen for a year.

Suited and Booted was inconsistent for Richard Hannon and Jane Chapple-Hyam last season, running his best race when fourth in a handicap at Kempton. That form leaves him with something to find at this level.

Take Your Partner was progressive early in 2011 for Kevin Ryan, winning 4 times on the AW. Well held on turf after and showed little ackowledging he faced a stiff task on debut for this yard. Remains best watched.

Terrific Challenge produced good efforts first 2 starts this season when placed in similar events at this track. Beaten fair and square by Kilt Rock more recently and no reason why he should reverse form.

Amica won on her debut back in 2010, and highly tried subsequently, contesting the UAE 1000 Guineas and Oaks last season. Duly came up short and plenty to prove even at this level.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Kilt Rock
2. Russian Rock
3. Mujaazef

Timeform View: Kilt Rock started this season with a Timeform rating of 78. He is now up to 117 after a remarkable sequence that has seen him win 4 handicaps and finish second in a minor event last time, a reproduction of which gives him leading claims in this. Russian Rock and Mujaazef can chase him home.

Timeform cast a glance over the staying handicap chase at Warwick on Friday......

Timeform take a look at the field for the $150,000 listed Meydan Classic......

Timeform run the rule over the two-and-a-half-mile listed handicap hurdle for novices at Huntingdon......

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Timeform Dubai SmartPlays: Thursday February 23

Tipping / Stephen Molyneux / 23 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Lee Westwood owns Rerouted

"I maintain that Rerouted will be contesting, and probably winning, pattern races before too much longer."

There's another quality card at Meydan on Thursday and Timeform Dubai Handicapper Stephen Molyneux has three recommended SmartPlays...

Mike de Kock has enjoyed a relatively quiet Carnival by his own exceedingly high standards but he stepped things up a notch last weekend with a trio of winners and there is every chance this could be his best week yet. Jardim can get him off to a good start in the 15:05 having shaped well behind Zain Shamardal seven days ago. That was just his second start for de Kock having spent most of his career in Brazil and America and the way he stayed on strongly from off the pace suggests he could have untapped potential over the longer trip. Though acknowledging Jamr and Spring of Fame have both been in good form, the race isn't a strong one and Jardim should reach a place at the very least.

A winner for Richard Hills on next month's Dubai World Cup night will be the perfect way for the rider to end his career and, as things stands, Entifaadha looks one of his better chances with the William Haggas-trained three-year-old being lined up for a crack at the UAE Derby. First of all though Entifaadha will need to dispose of his 11 rivals in the 15:45 and everything points to him doing so. He progressed well kept to seven furlongs in England last year, winning on his debut then following up in the Acomb Stakes at York. Entifaadha was far from disgraced subsequently whilst having potential excuses for defeat and the lion's share of his pedigree points to him improving now stepped up to a mile. The majority of his rivals have something to prove and he should take some beating.

There is always a danger of being lured in by horses that habitually finish strongly without quite getting there and there is an element of that with Rerouted, who contests the concluding minor event at 17:30. That said, he's always looked a classy individual and there must be every chance that the six and seven furlongs he has run over this year will ultimately prove inadequate. The trip he faces this time is nine furlongs and, although in some respects this will be his toughest assignment off level weights taking on some smart performers, I maintain that Rerouted will be contesting, and probably winning, pattern races before too much longer. His two runs this year are actually very solid pieces of form, fifth behind Hitchens then third behind Delegator, and although this comes just a week after the latter of those efforts, he should have the quality to overcome that.

Timeform SmartPlays

Back Jardim to win the 15:05
Back Entifaadha to win the 15:45
Back Rerouted to win the 17:30

...........

Click HERE to listen to Stephen previewing three races on the Meydan card.

Visit timeform.com to download a race card for Thursday's meeting at Meydan.

Timeform take a look at the field for the $150,000 listed Meydan Classic......

A trio of all-weather SmartPlays for Thursday, with the best bet coming on the fibresand at Southwell......

Timeform's Joe Szekeres puts forward a placepot permutation at Southwell racecourse today......

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