UK Horse Racing Information

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Hi, welcome to UK Racing Information. It may take you a while to read this page, in fact you will probably give up long before you reach the bottom, but what you will find is that it contains a huge amount about racing and form, provided by someone who knows the form inside out. Please read as much as you like and let me know what you think. I have consistently provided race selections based on my knowledge, systems and databases that very few others would have looked at, and I invite you to participate by buying the systems or the databases, or subscribing to my subscription service, which has provided numerous winners at up to 50/1 in recent days!
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In April my daily selections (free to view and posted well in advance) produced winners (returned SP) at 50/1, 25/1, 20/1, 8/1 twice and 6/1 twice, plus a number of other placed horses at big prices. Several of these were actually at bigger prices at the time of posting and were backed in before the race, so you could have got even better by taking early prices.
On 22nd June (see below) from 9 selections I gave Seneschal 50/1 winner, Danehillsundance 9/4 winner, Stargazy 20/1 winner, Helping Hand 12/1 winner and Fathey 16/1 third, beaten less than half a length, and two others were just outside the places. Where else can you get tipping like that? If everyone had winners like that, the bookies would be broke!
Obviously, although I enjoy doing it, I cannot continue to post these for free, as this website takes time and money to maintain, and at present produces very little income.
I am now prepared to offer selections at a rate of 10 per week or 30 per month. This would work out at between 17p and 24p per selection! All of my selections are given in good faith, based on my systems and top-rated horses in my databases, but nobody can guarantee good results at all times. Therefore I cannot refund any subscriptions in the event of a series of bad results. You can see, however, that I am very genuine in what I offer (in recent times I have built up a good relationship with a number of system clients and website visitors, who can vouch for that) and can usually provide some winners and placed horses at better prices than the average newspaper tipster or TV pundit (the latter invariably picks horses in the top two or three in the betting). I will be backing all the selections that I send myself, so you know that I will be putting in my best efforts!
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Recent Results and my comments based on the System, databases and lists (if you want to find out about value in racing, read on):

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30th July: Forsyth ran all over the place in the 2.00 Bangor, but I feel sure is very talented and capable of better in the future. Duncan finished only fourth in the 2.10 Goodwood, but Traffic Guard, hacking behind them, was not given its head until too late, and ran on for third! I had the feeling that Traffic Guard's jockey deliberately ran in behind the other horses so as not to win! In fact the two hampered each other at one point, which was vital in the outcome of the race, as both lost momentum. I always get the feeling that these incidents are not accidental! Keep an eye on Golden Sword, which was not wanted today, but is much better than that! I gave He's The Star as my selection recently, and it won the 2.25 Thirsk today at 9/1 from system bet Chilworth Lass (22/1) and system bet Alhoni 7/2 third! System bet Old Brigade 7/2 winner of the 2.35 Bangor (with McCoy!). My two selections in the 2.45 Goodwood decided to have an off day today, Red Cape and Sunrise Safari! Both will do better, probably next time. Did they put Hanagan on Red Cape to imply that if he can't win on it, nobody can? The winner, Joseph Henry, was my fourth best in, so that proves that the others did not compete! Nicholls got a 1-2, and that did not include yesterday's winner Hamoody! Unfortunately you can pick any one (or two) of his runners, and they all have a chance! System bet Wildcat Wizard 25/1 third. The price on Musca in the 3.00 Thirsk was not encouraging (25/1), suggesting it was going to throw in a bad one today, which it duly did! They seem to do that more often than not! System bet next time! Nacho Libre also flattered to deceive, putting in a challenge, then allowed to come fourth. They are so frustraing, these types of runs! Both of these horses are thrown in when wanted! System bet Diggeratt 14/1 third. The thrown in Mujamead decided to come third today in the 3.10 Bangor! They often do that to make it appear that the handicapper has got them! No chance! Will probably win again next time. Shanahan ran near the front for a long time before dropping out for no apparent reason. Well it was 50/1, I suppose, but will do better. Keep an eye on Panzer, which will do better soon. Aspectus was travelling very well just behind the winner in the 3.25 Goodwood, but did not pick up for no apparent reason! That run proves to me that it can win a race like this. Spectait was another very well in, but was under pressure on the outside far too early for my liking! Mahadee, Charlie Cool and Al Muheer are three that can do better. Not very good so far today, surely some of the others can do better? I backed Fahey's Tarooq 20/1 each-way and in the forecast with Mata Keranjang, which won at last! I wanted Roayh for the forecast in the 4.00 Goodwood, and I always had the feeling it could have got closer than third. Well, one of my selections for the 4.10 Thirsk, Yankee Bright, 20/1 second! Fortunately I also did Johnston's system bet Cat O'Nine Tails 12/1 winner for the forecast! See what I said about Johnston's runners on 28th July! Returned about £14 to very small stakes in total. Arumun was thrown in for the 4.20 Bangor, but the betting suggested it would not be competitive. Will do better next time. My other selection, Silmi, was way back and finished like a rocket for second at 6/1. It is obvious that Green Manalishi is waiting for a big race somewhere, as there is no way it should lose to most of the runners in the 4.45 Thirsk. There were only Caranbola (which underperformed) and Tabaret (second) anywhere near it on ratings! So keep backing it until it wins! Methhaaly threw in a poor run today, and should also be noted soon. Almaty Express, my nap, thrown in for the 5.15 Thirsk, never showed until right at the end of the race, cruising into fourth! Fortunately Timber Treasure did oblige at 12/1 as my second selection! Quite a good finish now today! Albert Park 14/1 winner of the 5.30 Bangor! I also had Spare Change for the forecast! My other selection, Bring It On Home, finished a running on fifth! Interestingly I had also written down Ridley Taylor (66/1 third) which had system type form! One of my selections for the final race, Star Rover, 16/1 third. This Perfect Blossom must be very well handicapped! Goodwood Maestro (never sighted) is well in for a race soon. Aflaam looked to be going far better than anything else in the 5.55 Newmarket, but ran in snatches towards the end and finished third! Keep a close eye on that one, looks really scopey! Fortunately I got a winning return with Sonny Parkin 9/2! As I have said before, Godolphin are fond of 1-2's in races, so Janood 5/4 and Busker 14/1 looked a potential forecast in the 6.25 Newmarket (and duly obliged)!

29th July: I can't believe it! Slash And Burn, top-rated and 20/1, in the lead over the last, did not get placed! Must have been 20/1 for a reason! Watch that one in future! My first selection and sys+1, Right Step, just pipped at 40/1 in the 2.10 Goodwood with system bet Invincible Soul 16/1 third! Almost got the forecast with Call At Midnight and Ladies Best (third) in the 2.20 Stratford! System bet Triple Dream 9/2 winner of the 2.35 Nottingham. These races are impossible to predict with so much back form to some of the runners, so it's basically a guessing game, as any one could win. Knew I shouldn't back against Bradley with his other runner The Tatling, but you just never know! The Jobber looked like coming on the outside, then packed up, and my recent tip, Colorus, (see 25th July) finished second at 13/2. My next selection, Borderlescott, 9/2 winner of the 2.45 Goodwood! Moorhouse Lad was in the lead at halfway, and I am sure it will win another race soon. My other choice, Triple Aspect, unseated rider before the line! Navajo Nation was right there at the last in the 2.55 Stratford, then the jockey let it slip back into fifth! I despair of these rides sometimes! I had a feeling about Herschel, but backed Santera instead! I kept looking at Dubara Reef and Dubawi King in the 3.10 Nottingham, but didn't back either! I had a little each-way on Torran Sound (11/1 third). Could have had a good tricast, but put off by that wretched favourite! Wajir (fifth) made no attempt to get placed in the 3.20 Goodwood! I wondered about its price, even with Dettori on it. Must have been there with the demise of the favourite! They are going to do something with that horse later! My next selection (and next best), Buailteoir 12/1 winner of the 3.30 Stratford! I thought if that one won that second rated Konigsbote would be unplaced, but watch that one next time out (system bet). Despite giving three selections in the 3.45 Nottingham, only Scamperdale (fourth) ran anything like it, and could have won if put into it properly. Dragon Slayer missed the break, so that was the end of that one, and if Jonjo's are 50/1 it's usually forget it! All three were closely weighted, which possibly explains the poor performances. Flying Cloud was pathetic in the 4.00 Goodwood. One of my selections, Le Corvee, 7/1 winner of the 4.05 Stratford! Is It Me finished fourth, but that is just cosmetic. It is thrown in when wanted, probably next time! That's three winners and a 40/1 second so far! Wonder if my nap will win? System bet Cookie Crumbles looked as if it could have done better in the 4.20 Nottingham, so keep an eye on it for a maiden or a handicap. Glengarra 17/2 second in the 4.40 Stratford. Apart from the winner (ugh), I had second, third and fourth (Rash Moment) in my tricast! I am convinced that they often let the winner win in these races! My selection, Bolodenka, 12/1 second in the 4.55 Nottingham! Knew I should have put in West End Lad, which always seems to win when wanted! Baltimore Jack dropped out, but will do better when wanted. There are certain horses that win quite often which you know are 'dark horses' with tons in hand, and West End Lad is one of those. Just have to catch it on the right day! I always look at it when it runs, but assumed that Bolodenka was better. Fatal mistake! Having said that, the way Bolodenka ran (and the way the jockey looked around when headed) suggested that they only wanted a place. Keeping up a good day, although my nap, She's A Character was clearly not wanted at 50/1, my other selection, Rakaan, almost snatched the 5.15 Goodwood at 13/2! I don't think Major Miller tried too hard in the 5.15 Stratford, the jockey constantly tugging and niggling at it. Will do better. They can cleverly make a horse jump badly with a tug at the right (wrong) moment! Matsunosuke (hacking) was thrown in with Berbice for the 5.45 Goodwood, but typically the former threw in a mare (not literally) today! The drift in the betting was also ominous. How do you explain that a horse goes -032 then runs like that? Both must win whenever wanted, which will hopefully be next time! What proves it is that I had the winner Hamoody 14/1 as my third rated with claim! Highland Harvest will also win soon in slightly lesser class (though could have won today if wanted probably). What a poor start to the evening! Three totally useless top-rated horses in the 6.00 Epsom. If I'd known that, I would have backed Maybe I Won't, but there were three better in horses in Summers Target (still messing around), Lunar River and Quince (the perennial loser!) Sickening lack of effort! Unfortunately they were three of the horses with claimers on them! All three will do better very soon (hopefully). Not even I could find Ballade De La Mer (50/1) in the 6.20 Musselburgh! The only good thing about it was the name! I thought Chocolate Caramel and Regents Secret would do better, but they seem to be holding everything back tonight! Kept looking at Dechiper, but that is usually backed when competing. Piermarini is due a good run soon now. Was the 6lb overweight on Media Stars a signal, as it is also very well in! Blast! I fancied the best two in, The Bear (7/1 winner) and Highland Warrior (12/1 second) in the 7.20 Musselburgh, but only did the latter each-way! Ridiculous! Get your mind straight, man! Roman Glory, Mishrif and Hazzard County were all equally in on my ratings for the 7.35 Epsom, so I kind of assumed that none of them would figure! Not so! Roman Glory won at 7/1, and I missed it! System bet Salient was just outside these ratings, and possibly did not compete for that reason. They all know what I know, and more, unfortunately! I get really fed up when they make 100+ horses look like donkeys! This was the case with Kings Point in the 7.55 Musselburgh! But as I have said before, they have complete control over how the horses run, and can make them look like 30 rated horses if they want to! I assume the claimer on board was to tell the others not to worry about it! I now feel very confident that Kings Point will make a very bold showing next time out and probably win. Finsbury was another that was obviously full of running but not allowed to run on. Make a note of both for next time. They just pile on the agony for anyone who knows even the basics of form! They are not fooling me, just wasting my money! I am entitled to a better run from a class horse! The only good thing about the race was that system bet Rosbertini finished third at 50/1, but that was the stablemate of the disappointing Finsbury! The winner Applaude must be better than its previous form even to beat Bajan Pride! The thrown-in Clumber Place must win soon now after failing miserably in the 8.35 Musselburgh! How can you tell if they are trying or not? I think the fact that it had a third place front and back is probably a clue. I thought I had got a place with Zabeel Tower, but it looked that it was just pipped into fourth! When it's out, it's out! It's beginning to bug me now, as Zabeel Tower idled in third, and the jockey lunged for the line when threatened! Hosanna will also be worth a bet next time.

28th July: Baddam started a long run down the outside in the 2.10 Goodwood, but never got there (seventh, I think)! It was very well backed near the off, but if it wanted to win, why was it so far back? I think it will win a race like this before long, being very well in on old form. I fancied the first two, but unfortunately didn't do the forecast! If Enjoy The Moment retains any ability, it must do better soon. The top two official rated Wind Shuffle and Duty Free, first and second in the 2.25 Perth! I ignored the well-touted Sir Boss, fortunately. Count Ceprano 5/2 winner of the 2.35 Beverley. I was a bit disappointed with Back To Paris, which obviously could have done much better, but hung in behind the second and third! Thrown in when wanted! The Dial House is another to watch, as it should have been in the shakeup. Chilworth Lad got into all sorts of trouble unnecessarily in the 2.45 Goodwood! If it had just run on when it got into the clear, it would have easily come second! Hacking behind, I am sure it got hampered because of the way it was ridden, and the big price was suspicious! Keep an eye on that one, as this was not a true run! I had Dream Risk in the 2.55 Perth, which looked well in at the weights. Keep an eye on Claude Carter, which ran well for a long way, and will do better in a handicap or a lesser seller. Precious Coral (well there most) and Olympic Ceremony should have done better (oh, Precious Coral was Ruthie's!) in the 3.10 Beverley, and are probably being kept for handicaps. If Uddy Mac could come third, those two should have been in front of it. Explain that! Johnston again with the winner Amity! You can't keep him out of it at any price! Boy Racer is going down and down in the weights, and will be out of the handicap for any race soon! Right Or Wrong was marginally better in at the weights in the 3.30 Perth, and just beat the favourite! The forecast paid £5.42! It's nice when the ratings work out! Rasselas won again at 12/1 in the 3.45 Beverley! Couldn't believe the price on it! If I'd known that, I would have given it as a selection! My selection Life And Soul 20/1 fourth in the 4.00 Goodwood. My selection for the 4.05 Perth, Sunday City 8/1 winner! I also backed third-rated Ormello for the forecast! My other selection, The Dukes Speech will be closer next time. Ballinteni non-runner in the 4.20 Redcar. My other selection, Fujin Dancer, just pipped into second place by Eijazz! That horse always seemss to win when wanted! Another non-runner with Tiger King in the 4.40 Perth! Storm Prospect was right in contention, but appeared to ease up between the last two flights, finishing fourth! System bet Tarkani 8/1 third. One of my selections, Mr Chocolate Drop, 14/1 winner of the 4.55 Redcar! Top Jaro did not perform again today, but is thrown in when wanted. Be careful, it may be heavily backed! Seradim 8/1 almost made it a great day, narrowly pipped by Dance East in the 5.10 Goodwood! Flapper threatened to lead for a while, and will do better when wanted. My next tip, Maolisa, 11/2 winner of the 5.15 Perth! Damn, I didn't get the bet on, but a good day now! Hope you didn't give up on me! Well, Klynch was right there and looked like winning a furlong out, but ran around, possibly while being snatched up, and finished about sixth. However, my other selection, Carnival Dream finished third at 50/1 and I also backed the winner, San Jose City! Klynch is thrown in now when wanted, but again, may be well backed. Had to have another bad one soon, and neither Thebes nor Coasting were placed in the 5.45 Goodwood, although from their running both could have done better, the former dropping out tamely when well in contention and Coasting doing the same when hacking just behind the leaders! Just depends what they want to do on the day! Trafalgar Square was thrown in for the 5.50 sandown, but, as usual in these cases, did not want to win after a series of poor placings. It did, however, finish second at 8/1 for the each-way money. Amazing when there is a so-called class horse in the race, how all the top-rated fail to perform! In the 6.05 beverley these included Greek Secret, Soto and Dream Express. A very suspect race for that reason. Did word get out about those three? The TV pundit said Soto got very tired. Don't you believe it! They might make it look that way. Whatever, it makes for an ass of a race! All three will do much better when wanted. Dingaan should not have won the 6.20 Sandown at these weights, but it was too well backed for my liking, and I had a feeling about it. Lang Shining should clearly have won, but decided to have an off night tonight! Unfortunately I had the second, Carcinetto (see 10th July) and third Orchard Supreme in a reverse forecast! System bet New Magic 4/1 winner of the 6.35 Galway (I got 11/2). I could almost guarantee that Transfixed (third last time) would finish seventh or worse in the 6.40 Leicester, and it finished... seventh! I can almost read their minds! It will be a system bet next time, which is some consolation. I had a small bet on Borug in the 6.55 Sandown, because I thought the Godolphin first string would probably win this time! Psychology! I have missed out commentary on a few races, as it's been a long day! System bet (and my constant tip) Dickie Le Davoir rarely wins a race, because of its dropped out running style, but finished second again at 10/1 in the 8.20 Leicester. Rainy Night (-255) 11/4 winner.

27th July: I had a feeling that Godolphin might pull a fast one in the 2.00 Beverley (it has been known before), so I backed Mutual Force (12/1) each-way! I also put in the favourite, but that was not involved. Drat! Perfect system bet Indian Days (-460) 12/1 winner of the 2.10 Goodwood! Didn't back it! My selections, Ramona Chase (stayed at the back all the way) and Jo'burg, (made ground on the outside, but too far back) will both be system bets next time. Moynahan is another to keep an eye on next time. Hanagan almost did it again with Changing The Guard! I wondered whether Rosewood Lad (heavily backed) would win with figures of -26, and my suspicions were correct! Suddenly dropped back for no reason in mid-race, which made me wince! System bet next time. Always Dixie was right there all the way, and only faded very late. Was it testing today? Prescott's horse Miereveldfront-ran in typical fashion, and I was surprised it did not win in the end! My two selections for the 2.45 Goodwood, Fencing Master and Theology, finished fifth and sixth, although Fencing Master was well there towards the finish. Top-rated Arctic Cosmos finished third at 5/1, which I also backed each-way. Another gem from me in the 3.05 Beverley with Dunaskin last and Maybeme second last! Dunaskin is thrown in off this mark any time they want him, which was not today, but back it anytime it runs in the future! Maybeme was also better in than at least two of the others. Great start to the day! Wish I'd stuck with my original decision not to post! Well, surely I can't tip all the top-rated and none of them come in? That would be a farce of a day, but stranger things have happened! Balthazaars Gift ran on well from the back into about fifth place in the 3.25 Goodwood, but Finjaan did not run its normal race. I'm keeping up my record for the day! I kept looking at Lord Shanakill too! I am still keeping up my record of no wins or places today after the 3.40 Beverley! Can I keep it up? System bet Celtic Change 6/1 second. Boy Blue will be a system bet next time. I told you that when they get their first place for a while they often don't step up next time. Pity, its symmetrical form looked promising! And top-rated, I had to give it! Carnivore (prominent early) and Danehillsundance will do much better. It cannot be coincidence that my three top-rated finished in the last three places. Incredible! Glad I haven't got a selection in the 4.00 Goodwood (hehe!). It's the other races I'm worried about! The three top official rated finished first, second and third in the 4.00, all except Serena's Pride, which I backed each-way! Funny! At last, Swinbank gave me a winner with Tallahasse (6/1), just as he had done on 24th July with Chin N Tonic! His runners are often worth backing at any price. A result of a sort with Benandonner 20/1 fourth in the 4.35 Goodwood, and another, Mambo Spirit finished fifth at 33/1. Pity Skybet didn't pay five places on this one! Another choice of mine, My Gacho, led nearly all the way and finished sixth! All of these will probably win again soon. I don't believe my luck! I had Rio Sands (40/1 second by a short head) each-way, Frognal 7/1 winner each-way in the 4.50 Beverley and didn't put them both in for the forecast! Just a 5p reverse forecast would have given me £13! Grrr... When will I do something right? Some days you know it ain't your day! King Of Swords had an off-day (deliberately?) and must win soon. Ryedane will also win again before long. System bet Ingleby Star 25/1 third. I can't believe how often short-priced favourites, placed last time, that are thrown in don't perform! Seems to be a regular occurrence! I can't believe that the rider on Mississippian (asymmetrical form) went off like a scalded cat, was in a clear lead a couple of furlongs out, then finished last! Parchment finished fourth, making good ground near the finish. I had a little saver on Hurricane Thomas, (-25) 5/1 winner. Keep an eye on the above two, plus Tres Froide soon. Sentry Duty 11/1 third in the 5.40 Goodwood. Knew I should have backed Martyr, which I kept looking at! Hannon and Stoute first and second. What's new? Well at least that's a few good places today! I don't know what happened to North Island in the 5.55 Worcester, but something always seems to happen to short-priced favourites! Nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems. and I backed against Royal Composer in the 6.00 Beverley, thinking it might have a bad day, but it didn't! I did back Tivers Song each-way, as I have tipped it up recently. Will Emperor's Well ever win? It was running against its trainer's nephew's horse today, so probably backed off. My two recent tips, My Condor and Captain Marlon fought out the finish in the 6.25 Worcester! How come so many races are fought out between first and second favourites? I am still waiting for Sahara Prince, and hopefully it will be next time! They run so many races before making that important effort!

26th July: A good start with Bertie Southstreet 6/1 winner of the 2.15 Yarmouth! Bahama Baileys has been thrown in on old form for ages, but never seems to figure. It did have -06 figures today, so perhaps it will be next time. Landucci was one of the best in for the 2.30 Wolverhampton, but with an outstanding first place, I wondered if it would figure. It did, but did not run on! Keep it in mind. Doctors Cave was obviously unfit, but watch out for it in the next race or two. I didn't realise Cunningham-Brown was still training! Lily Blue is another very well in, but they are taking their time! First Blade (symmetrical and system type form) 40/1 second. Whispering Spirit was not well enough in to win, unless it is much better than its best rating shown! I got the forecast (just) with system bet Captain Loui 5/2 and My Lord 11/2 in the 2.45 Yarmouth! Most of the best horses apart from Provost (7/1 second) did not compete in the 3.00 Wolverhampton! How often does that happen? Guildenstern, Crocodile Bay and Chjimes were hardly sighted! All three will do better, probably next time. It amazes me how a horse like Glenridding can be backed and win so easily unless they know something about the others! It hardly ever pays to put the top-three rated in a forecast or tricast, as normally only one, if any, competes! Crocodile Bay (system next time) will also do better with less competition. Silly me! I ignored Chapple-Hyam's Titus Two in the 3.15 Yarmouth! One of my selections, Prophet In A Dream 13/2 second in the 3.30 Wolverhampton. The other, system bet He's The Star was there for a long time, but it was its stablemate the evwentually finished fourth. Small races are usually not a good medium for my top-rated, as there is never any guarantee that they are going to compete properly. Malcheek led for a long time in the 3.45 Yarmouth, and could probably have won, but appeared to ease up inside the final furlong. Well, unless the other two were 90+ rated, it must have done! Hustle always appeared to be under pressure, but appearances are often deceptive! A few other fools like me backed it before the off! They can make these horses appear to be anything they want! What surprises me in these races is how they seem to know which horse is going to win beforehand, with favourite beating second favourite in this case! Whatever, these races are a minefield, and usually best left alone. Timeteam missed the break again in the 4.00 Wolverhampton! What are they doing with that horse? Bet it will win again soon! Fortunately I backed Hinton Admiral at 10/1 (I got 14/1 on it)! When I don't post a horse as a selection, that is usually when they win! This Interchoice Star keeps popping up at big prices, and must be considerably better than its rating! Barataria was travelling like a dream in the 4.15 Yarmouth, but Hayley never let it go, and it finished sixth! Very disappointing, but keep an eye on it! My other selection, Easy Wonder, finished third at 20/1. Keep an eye also on the front-runner, Bubbly Braveheart, which should do better soon. One of my selections, Yungaburra, led entering the final furlong in the 4.30 Wolverhampton, but must have been eased up, because it dropped out tamely. Just a test again! Must be getting ready for a win soon! The other selection, Loyal Royal, second at 16/1! System bet Dancing Mate winner. For once I learned something and put the favourite in for the forecast! Another to keep an eye on soon is Brunelleschi, which often pops up at a big price. Another front-runner in my nap, Green Manalishi in the 4.45 Yarmouth! The horse led very easily and very similarly to Yungaburra, packed up! How annoying! Just makes me fume with frustration! I would say they are looking for a more valuable handicap soon. Angus Newz normally front-runs, and did not do so today. Both are thrown in for a similar handicap, but it was obvious from the betting that they weren't out for it today! Fortunately I also had a bet on third rated Piazza San Pietro! System bet Fathsta 9/2 third. My selection, Stage Acclaim evens winner of the 5.15 Yarmouth. Snowberry Hill was second-rated, but I wasn't surprised that it came third! This game never ceases to amaze me, with Madame De Stael and one of my selections, Dubburg backed off the boards, neither performing, and the thrown-in St Savarin finishing sixth (prodded into life late on)! Another amazing feature was that Dan Buoy, which normally front-runs at a furious pace, was never sighted near the front today! What do they have to say about that? Anyway the upshot was that it was a complete codswallop of a race, with only Pertemps Networks of my rated horses getting a place! I tell you, they can get almost any result they want! Flighty Fellow was thrown in for the 6.00 Wolverhampton, but its remaining first place made me doubtful. I still had to give it as a selection, as they do win sometimes! Corrib (third) was the obvious reliable horse, and wish I'd given that one instead of Queen Of Thebes, which made good ground, then typically packed up! Another trial run. Even Corrib was obviously not looking to win, as, once it had made up the ground, it was not allowed to go and win the race! Gosh, there are so many suspect rides being given! One interesting point: why was Pab Special so well backed today? That usually means next time out! I keep getting the feeling that most of these races are artificial, depending on the plans for the day! Oh, by the way, system bet Join Up 15/2 third now I've got that off my chest! Here we go again! Can't believe that Riverscape and McCoy could give weight away and still win the 6.25 Uttoxter! Did Halling Gal run to its best? Typically I backed Red Current each-way at 33/1 and it finished fourth. Do they know that will happen? Top-rated Choral Festival 8/1 winner of the 6.40 Windsor with system bet Beauchamp Xiara in third at 6/1. Smart Endeavour will do better shortly. Another very dubious result in the 6.55 Uttoxeter, with the thrown in Tritonville Lodge narrowly pipped by Intac! I could see what was happening all the way between the last two fences - that sinking feeling! Is that a genuine result? It certainly happened! Explains why Intac was favourite, certainly, but is it justifiable? I can't get that McCoy out of the equation! Whatever I back, he beats it. I had Quiny Boy and Manadam in a forecast, and ... second and third again! Terribly annoying! It was more annoying that best-in Manadam ran on like train when it was all over! When will they run a proper race and run to their merits? System bet Enjoy Your Life 7/1 winner of the 7.35 Galway. Lucky Leigh (7.40 Windsor) will win a race one day. but don't hold your breath! It is now running 33lb below its best rating! I thought it might try as a system bet tonight, but no! It had that dreaded 2 on the front! Caledonia Princess must be quite a horse, with two wins on the trot and no obvious chance in either! I had Strong Coffee 13/2 and Browneyes Blue 33/1 in the 7.55 Uttoxeter, second and third again! Lidjo De Rouge's form figures now look right for an attempt next time. What A Scientist is also due soon. System bet Sailors Warn 9/2 second in the 8.05 Galway. I backed Sasheen 12/1 second each-way in the 7.40 Windsor, and should have done it with the favourite! Why is it that practically every one of my top-rated horses is a complete outsider and runs appallingly? This applied to Cave Of The Giant and Cunning Pursuit in the 8.25 Uttoxeter, both of them far better in than anything else? I was glad to see that third-rated Heir To Be at least consented to run on for third! Aldiruos will run better next time. Changing Lanes must be an improving horse, and will probably win more races. I wondered whether the thrown-in system bet Maslak would win tonight with an outstanding first place, and I was right again, finishing only third at 6/1! I am beginning to read their minds now, wish I would put it into practice, and not back Maslak win only! I also backed Act Three, which ran beautifully in front for a long time, and, as soon as I got my hopes up, dropped out! Painful! It gets monotonous after a while, but it is a good sign for the future. At last! Mujamead, which I tipped heavily last time (see 20th July), 11/1 winner of the 8.55 Uttoxeter! Schinken Otto looked like coming second (I had it for the forecast, but they never seem to come in), but was not ridden out, and will do better. Chord will also do better soon.

25th July: Are we going to see a few winners for claimer Ian Brennan this afternoon? I have selected several of his runners, but that did not include the first race at Pontefract! I expect all the others will go down now! My selections, Moody Tunes and Kashimin, finished second and fourth in the 2.25 Carlisle, just pipped for both positions! I therefore got no return for two good runs! A bit disappointing! Watch out for Kings Sabre in a handicap soon. Best in Regal Lyric rushed around the outside in the 2.40 Pontefract, but did not go through with it! Must have been a trial! Winged Farasi finished fourth. Fortunately I also backed the 12/1 winner, Gulf Coast and the third, Master Nimbus (Brennan). Pity, I always pick the wrong ones to post! I wrote down the first two in the correct order in the 2.50 Ascot, but didn't do the forecast again! I'll never learn! Always looking for more value! No money and no effort from either of my selections in the 3.00 Carlisle! How can two horses dominate a race by so much when they are not as well in as some others? It's amazing! Hartshead, Geojimali and Dickie Le Davoir are all due soon. Geojimali was asymmetrical again! It never fails! Rowan Lodge was pulled out before the off in the 3.15 Pontefract, which left me with Sea Land, and that ran no sort of race, although cruising in in fifth! What is up with these horses? They won't win before the stable decides! Well, I've picked some good ones today! Avow and Perfect Ch'i finished last and next to last in the 3.25 Ascot! The only consolation is, it can't get any worse! I assure you that Perfect Ch'i is very well handicapped and will be a system bet next time! Avow was proably getting rid of a first place. Those are my excuses! Well I was finally reprieved with a 14/1 winner in Film Festival in the 3.35 Carlisle! Thank goodness! Kings Head was equally well in, but did not show. Watch it next time! Cumani did it again with another system bet in Mabait in the 3.50 Pontefract. Shouldn't have been good enough on the ratings! Not having seen the race first time round, I didn't realsie it was a dead-heat, so I did get a return with Rio De La Plata. Back to normal in the 4.00 Ascot with Dishdasha dropping out and Credit Swap not showing. This Pendragon keeps winning! Dancing Freddy 6/1 second in the 4.10 Pontefract. I wasn't surprised that Reach For The Sky didn't figure, as they usually do that after a good run! Will probably do better next time. I wasn't too surprised either that Midget ran well, as just getting rid of a win from last season! Stevie Gee 17/2 winner of the 4.25 Pontefract! When I saw it open at 6/1, I knew it was trying, and wasn't too bothered about the drift, as it had obviously been backed earlier! Atlantic Story (a massive horse towering over the others) travelled well for a long way, and should be noted soon. Orpsie Boy decided not to show today, but is still well handicapped for another win. I gave Record Breaker in the 4.35 Ascot, but the crafty b... put his other horse Bay Willow in instead! Just shows they have any amount of ammunition in that stable (and they keep running two or three in the same race)! Record Breaker is still well in for next time. Red Merlin may take another race, but made a mid-race effort (trial) today. Mister Fantastic showed up for a long way in the 4.45 Carlisle, and is probably being primed for a handicap win before long. Keep an eye on it. Should have done the forecast with Opening Nite, however. My nap, Matsunosuke, 33/1 second in the 5.10 Ascot. Should have won, as it was thrown in at the weights! Well at least it's as good as an 8/1 winner! Hot Rod Mamma was hacking behind the leader in the 5.20 Carlisle, and I could not believe it didn't go past! Must win very soon. My other pick, Leaving Alone, finished third at 13/2. I got the forecast with Mr Wolf and King Of Swords in the 5.30 Pontefract, and almost got the tricast with fast-finishing Darcys Pride in fourth! Keep an eye on Colorus, which is due to strike very soon now, and Namir will probably show next time.

24th July: One of my selections for the 1.30 Ascot, Dabber's Ridge, 16/1 third. The other, Bomber Command, led briefly, but had asymmetrical form, so watch for it next time. I said that Methaaly, (see 10th July) would do better again soon, and it finished second at 50/1! Fishforcompliments also had asymmetrical form, and will probably also win soon. I picked the wrong horse to go with Galtymore Lad in the 2.05 Ascot! I did Auld Burns, but the money was right for the favourite! My next tip, Classic Punch, 5/2 winner! I got 4/1, which was bit better. My other selection, Cwm Rhondda did not figure, but will do better, as will Strategic Mission. Antigua Sunrise only ran on for fifth place when it was too late. Better over further? I backed Cox's Perfect Tribute each-way in the 2.40 Ascot, and thought I was going to get the forecast until Soraaya came through! Ruth Carr again with San Cassiano in the 2.45 Newmarket! Jibrrya ran appallingly in the race, and must be better than that! I got Swinbank's Chin 'N Tonic each-way at 18/1 in the 2.55 Newcastle! His horses are often worth a bet. That was nice, although I got 16/1! Pity I only had a pittance on it! Allybar should have won the 3.05 York, but only ran on when it was too late! What sort of run was that? I also thought that Monitor Closely was going to win, but packed up tamely! It is obvious that horses only run to form occasionally, and it's all part of the overall pattern! Summit Surge 8/1 was third on my list, unfortunately, and that was the one they wanted today! My tip, Musaafer took the lead in the 3.15 Ascot, but must have been testing, because it ran all over the place and then dropped back to fifth! System bet Haatheq was also tame, and we must wait until next time for Spa's Dancer! My next selection, Waveband, 13/2 second in the 3.20 Newmarket (I missed the off). Absa Lutte threw in a typical effort after a second place, and will do better. I had the first two written down for the 3.30 Newcastle in Golden Shaheen 10/1 and Colonel Mak 13/2, and only backed the second. Blast! Little Scotland should have done better. System bet Coolminx finished fourth to compound my annoyance! I think Damien finished sixth (by a nose!) in the 3.40 York, but appeared to be coming to win the race at one point! If it was fifth, it would have paid each-way on Skybet - typical). Will do better soon. Damika decided to take a day off today, but was clear best in. Advanced (led for a while) and Gallagher did not perform in the 3.50 Ascot, although Gallagher (also sixth, strangely) was mentioned in the closing stages. Sometimes I feel that they finish sixth deliberately when there are five places. Advanced had asymmetrical form again! System bet Noble Citizen finished second at 16/1. Fahey again with Castles in The Air (what is the matter with that man?). Thanks, Ruth! My nap, Beckermet, was useless in the 4.05 Newcastle (oh, it had a claimer on it), but my other tip, Game Lad, finished second at 11/1. Beckermet must win soon, but watch for that money! Hanagan and Fahey pipped me again on system bet Squires Gate in the 4.10 York, but I did have a forecast on the two. Palomar (full of running, but not used) did not perform in the 4.45 York, but my other selection, Wicked Daze did at 12/1! Palomar is thrown in when wanted, and I don't understand why they keep messing around! I had a small forecast (unfortunately) on Fame Is The Spur and Dashing Doc (both at 8/1) in the 5.05 Newmarket! Van Bossed was thrown in for the 5.15 Newcastle, but they are obviously waiting a bit longer! Lakeman finished fourth, and I wasn't surprised really with a 1 on the front. Finishing with a bit of a whimper at present! Bold Marc always front-runs when wanted, but did not do so today, which leads me to believe it was not trying. Is thrown in soon now (system bet next time). Spiritofthewest likewise did not show, but I had a little each-way on Zomerlust, second (should have beaten Smarty Socks, but clearly only wanted second). Another to note soon is Pearly Wey, which is now due a very good run. System bet Imperial Djay 14/1 fourth. I backed Valiant Knight each-way in the 5.35 Ascot, just losing out to Jarvis again! System bet Lady Lam 7/2 winner of the 5.45 Lingfield. Pity about best-in Dora Explora and second best Supercast (last). Just shows they can make it look like anything they want! Another running-on from the back third for Divine Spirit in the 5.50 Newcastle! Thrown in when wanted! My other choice, Avertuoso ended in -06. What did I say? I also backed Sandwith each way for good measure, finishing a close fourth. Why did I keep looking at Cross Of Lorraine and didn't back it? Apex was thrown in for the 6.00 Salisbury, but as usual they take their time, this time finishing fourth. Gosh, they are so frustrating! I expected Bed Fellow to throw in a bad race in the 6.20 Newcastle, but I didn't expect orpen Wide to run a stinker again! What are they doing with that one? It beggars belief! Fortunately I backed Wood Fair (25/1 third) (nice symmetrical form) each-way. System bet Blue Moon 8/1 second. Royal Holiday should start to show soon. Official top-rated Mercoliano rightly beat the odds-on favourite according to the weights. What was all the fuss about? Marafong finished fourth and will do better in a handicap soon. Upark Flyer got hampered at a vital time in the 6.45 Lingfield, which undoubtedly cost it the race! Travels supremely well, and must win a race soon. Grrr... When your luck is out... Should have gone with my instincts with Codemaster for the forecast in the 7.05 Salisbury, but being a cynic, I put the other Hannon horse in! Never seems to work, especially when they miss the break! I backed Norman Orpen (14/1 second) each-way in the 7.20 Lingfield, and it looked to be going far better than the first two, but probably wasn't out to win tonight! Looks a certainty for the future! It was slightly hampered a furlong out, by why on earth didn't it win? Had they promised the favourite's connections? Zaif (or his connections) did it to me again in the 8.10 Salisbury! Third in a seven horse race! Keeps making ground then finding little! It has now gone -535353! Why do they keep doing that when it is thrown in? I hate it! Must win if it runs in a bigger race, but they are taking their time about it! It is also about time that Cote D'Argent won another race! I backed Kipchak (tipped by me last time out - see 21st July!) and Dichoh each way in the 8.25 Lingfield, finishing first and third, unfortunately, as the forecast would have been nice! I didn't expect Kipchak to be that short, but they like to back them in many cases! Cavendish Road (system type form) split them at 14/1. Dichoh and Stargazy will both do better soon. Kurtanella did not run anything like the same race in the 8.40 Salisbury as it did last time, when it came up very strongly and looked likely to win. Will probably do better next time now that it has symmetrical form.

23rd July: Nobody apparently spotted my 'deliberate' mistake yesterday, or if they did, they didn't comment on it! Let me know if you did! Daily Selections here (free for a limited time).

Not a bad start in the 2.00 Thirsk with Emerald's Spirit 50/1 winner! The TV pundit said you would need a mighty big pin to pick that one! Although I backed the first three, I didn't get the forecast or tricast! Bell's Ocean was best in, but did not figure today (system bet next time). Keep an eye on Hot Rod Mamma and Forshour soon. I tipped the second, Silver Symphony last time! I didn't see White Moonstone coming up on the rail, and thought I was going to get the forecast in the 2.10 Ascot! I backed the second and third! None of my top-rated decided to get involved today in the 2.20 Southwell, and I wasn't totally surprised, as they were closely handicapped! Sahara Prince, Dasher Reilly (keeps running like a donkey) and Scalini's are getting frustrating, but will do better. They tend to run horses to these patterns, a series of places, followed by a bad run, and that is is often when they strike. Hanagan again with Bridle Belle in the 2.35 Thirsk! Didn't win when I backed him, but I didn't mind that! I had the first four written down, but wanted Jetfire to win! I wasn't surprised that Jehanbux got beaten in the 2.45 Ascot, but the annoying thing was that I didn't back Titus Mills each-way (put it in a forecast with the favourite)! I also had a good look at the second, Noonenose (33/1), but didn't dare to do a forecast! McCoy wins on an odds-on favourite again with Gabreselassie! Do they bow down to him? My pick, Cute N You Know It, was backed right in, but finished fifth. What a joke! Prescott's Fork Lightning almost won the 3.10 Thirsk at 14/1! My choice, system bet Barreq, never got into the race, so should be noted. One of my selections, Chachamaidee, missed the break in the 3.20 Ascot and still finished second! What would it have done with a clean break? The other, Blue Angel, will probably do better next time. Top-rated Haka Dancer threw away its chance in the 3.30 Southwell with a bad mistake, and should have won if it jumped properly. Very annoying! Both of my selections in the 3.55 Ascot, Centennial and Sohcatoa, had figures ending in -06, which I have suggested in the past are not good figures! I had to give them because they were best in. Centennial was travelling well behind the leaders, but did not sustain its effort, Watch for that one and Sohcatoa next time. Fortunately I also did a forecast with Colloquial and Aaim To Prosper! Freedom Fire ran no sort of race in the 4.05 Southwell, even though top-rated! No excuse for that and will do better. Apache Dawn should therefore have won, but not even with McCoy on it! I backed Hanagan on system bet Hail Tiberius in the 4.20 Thirsk, and, of course, he loitered at the back and finished fourth! Typical! I thought Baltimore Clipper would struggle at the weights, and of course that one won! Magic! What happened to Rio Tinto? I backed Hanoverian Baron in the 4.30 Ascot, but was a bit disappointed with the effort of Greylami, which hacked up last time. I feel sure that one will do better soon. My selections for the 4.40 Southwell, Alph and Is It Me, finished first and third, both at 7/1. Pity, because I did a reverse forecast on them! Royal Max, which I did for the tricast, was well-backed, but finished fifth. Obviously Ensigns Trick was not wanted today, but it led for a while, apparently going well until dropping out. My other selection, Clumber Place was as well in, but only finished third at 8/1. Both can win soon. Well, my next best, Red Somerset, did not win, although it led clearly for a while, but my other selection, Avonrose did win at 9/2! Watch out for Red Somerset soon, as it was better in with the claimer on board. Reel Missile was best in for the 5.15 Southwell, but finished only third. Both Adjami, which made good ground, then packed up, and Daraybad, fourth, are thrown in for a future handicap. My nap, King Of Swords, did not run on until it was too late, and finished fast in third at 9/2! Very annoying, and either the jockey was no good, or it was planned! I take that back! Apparently King Of Swords suffered interference in mid-race. Blessed Place could not get the lead, and that is normally the end for that horse. Not a bad return, with a 50/1 winner, a 7/1 winner, a 9/2 winner and several places! It was obvious from the betting that Thomas Bell was not going to get involved today in the 5.45 Southwell, but you have to back it! Not a nice situation! I only noticed Sue Smith's runner Helena Of Troy (40/1 second) when the race was off! I was also disappointed with the run of St Enoder, which threatened briefly. System bet Wild Rockette 14/1 third in the 6.00 York. Couldn't pick the winner, as you never know how much improvement is in them! Short Break was absolutely hacking in the 6.10 Newmarket, but when pulled out, did not run on! Worth a bet soon. What sort of ride did the jockey on Maybe Some Time give his horse in the 6.20 Chepstow? Didn't run on for fourth until it was too late! I detest that! With a 74 rating and a 5lb claim, it had to get in the first three! Smacks of deliberate! Farcical in the 6.30 York, with the three best treated horses running no sort of race. Even more so when Ryan Moore won the race for no apparent reason! Turnkey was thrown in, made ground, then did not run on. Top Bid missed the break, end of that! Almost as bad as when tailed off last time! Green Park ran on late, but did not get placed. How many more gripes do you want? Watch them all next time out, although two of them are still getting rid of first places. Richard Hughes gave Byrony a cracking ride in the 6.40 Newmarket, appearing out of it with a furlong to go! System bet Polar Annie 25/1 winner of the 6.50 Chepstow. Damn, I fancied You've been Mowed (second) too! Andrastra (thrown in) should do better very soon (Pearce was on that one too!). Swift Alhaarth was hacking just behind the leaders in the 7.10 Newmarket, but, not finding a gap, eventually fifnished fifth. Keep your eye on that one! Nubar Boy will do better than it did in the 7.20 Chepstow tonight! Our Boy Barrington looked like getting placed, but must have flattened out late on. Bikini Babe front-ran in the 7.30 York, and I thought it was going to win until sudedenly packing up tamely. Are they waiting for a handicap? Moore was on the winner again! Best-in Viking Spirit 15/2 finished third again (really fast) in the 7.40 Newmarket, but I would have preferred it to win! Why do they always stay so far back if they intend to win (dubious)? They like to do it the long-winded way! Seamus Shindig (fourth) is another due soon. Saunders had a hat-trick in the races at Chepstow tonight! I thought Harris was looking for the tricast in the 7.50, and all three of his runners were in with a shout at one point! Stamford Blue (second), Spic N Span and Best One are all very well in when wanted. So all I got was a place! I backed Kames Park and Paktolos in a reverse forecast in the 8.00 York and guess what? Second and third and that Fahey won the race again! He's beginning to annoy me, as a famous snooker player once said! I suppose it should have won on official ratings, but mine were better in overall! Just shows that they don't like to run above their ratings! Magicalmysterytour was well handicapped in the 8.10 Newmarket, and although not getting placed, ran well enough to suggest that a better performance is not far away. Make a note! I also backed the winner, Spirit Is Needed (sys+1). Aurorian is another to watch closely. Le Corvee, which I thought was a certainty in the 8.20 Chepstow, had to find an Irish raider to beat it in system bet Clare Glen 14/1! Didn't look at that one! Well, it was by Sakhee! Erdeli (sys+1) 8/1 third. Boragh Jamal finished only fourth in the 8.30 York and will do better again. Ishtar Gate was another one thrown in for the 8.45 Newmarket, running on late for third! They do this on a regular basis! I think they let the first two run their races so as not to spoil the party! Hannon's second string? won the race (symmetrical form, the type I like)! Keep an eye on Charpoy Cobra (system next time). Blast! I had second, third and fourth in the 8.55 Chepstow, with long-time leader Spiritonthemount, system bet Minder and Princess Flame! Why did that favourite have to spoil it? Keep an eye on Princess Flame, which finished fast in fourth and is very well in. Did Spiritonthemount want to win, as it was much better in than the winner?

22nd July: I should think from the betting that they knew what order they were going to finish in for the 1.50 Bath! A pity, as I thought Diamond Vine should have done better! Can't see how E Major won the 2.00 Uttoxter so easily, as I would have put it third best, but they clearly knew something! Should have done the forecast with the favourite and Oh My Days (second) in the 2.10 Sandown, but backed it each-way instead! Cost me a lot of money (£4 forecast!) Belle Bayardo obviously improved or the favourite ran below form in the 2.20 Bath. How can we tell, but the price was better! Best-in Boo didn't like being backed in the 2.35 Uttoxeter, so finished fourth! Typical. Must do better. My other selection, Richo, was highlighted by the commentator as making progress, but never got there! Strangely, both had exactly the same form figures (-03)! What a frustrating game this is! Marie De Laufon (sys+1) 12/1 second. Highland River is no back number, and, although 50/1 today, should be noted soon. Ugalla, which I put in a forecast with Bowdlers Magic, seemed to go wrong in the 2.45 Sandown, but time will tell, as he carried on riding it! The two selections I gave in the 2.55 Bath, War Of The Roses and Looks the Business, both had similar system form, in that they both had an outstanding first place from last season, which suggested that neither might win today. So, although War Of The Roses finished second at 9/2, I had a crafty little bet on the other system bet Albuharith, which won at 6/1! I should have worked that out before I gave my selections, for which I apologise! Both my selections should win soon, as they were better in than the winner! That's better! My next best, Three Ships, 9/1 winner of the 3.10 Uttoxeter, with my other selection, Edgefour 4/1 second! And for good measure I also put it in a forecast with Beshairt (22/1 third). Lily Again (-25) 9/2 winner of the 3.20 Sandown. I thought Penny's Pearl should have done better. My first selection, Flyinflyout, had assymetrical form, which I noticed, but I gave it as it was clear best in. My second selection, Fever Tree, finished second at 9/4 (didn't know it was going to be that short), and I also backed Cole's Lady Of Garmoran 12/1 winner for the forecast! Cole also had the winner in the previous race at Sandown! Keep an eye on this Farmer's Dream, which looked likely to win at one point! Flyinflyout will probably run much better next time. System bet The Shoe was best in for the 3.45 Uttoxeter, winning at 10/11. Vasodilator, next best in, pulled up, so will probably do better again soon. One of my tips for the 3.55 Sandown, Captain Macarry, led nearly all the way, then got swallowed up in fourth! Pity it wasn't a 16 horse race, but that probably explains its price. Just shows that it can win if wanted, as it was probably not looking for a place at 40/1! My other tip, Whistleinthewind was a non-runner, possibly because of Captain Macarry? System bet Rumble Of Thunder 20/1 second. Keep an eye on Tinshu, which will do better. The 4.05 Bath turned into a seven horse race (again) so my each-way tip on system bet Force To Spend ended in a worthless third! It's not fair when you don't know about withdrawals beforehand, because you are backing on the basis that there will be three places! Force To Spend also got hampered when looking to make a good run! The other one, Dancing Poppy was also well there for most of the race. I backed Vesey Lodge 5/2 winner and Sir Harry Cash 10/1 third in the 4.20 Uttoxeter, but the only forecast I did not do came in, of course! When is this Mata Keranjang going to win a race? I am fed up with it being beaten off this rating. Are they waiting for it to go down to 70? I had the first three written down in the correct order, including first time out Waheed! Best in Talawalla put in no sort of run in the 4.40 Bath, and will do better next time. These races are won almost by default, as I was pretty sure that Pastello would not win either from its form figures! I can work it out, but I don't put it into practice very often! One of my selections Red Jester, finished second in the 4.50 Uttoxeter, but Quincy Des Pictons (fifth) had no intention of getting into the race! I hate it when a horse trails at the back of the field when it should do better! System bet Lady Florence 28/1 winner of the 5.00 Sandown. I suppose one of my selections, Art Market, was due a zero, but is thrown in when wanted. I don't understand what decides whether they try or not? Is it a purely arbitrary decision in order to get a better price? Another, Lastkingofscotland, was narrowly beaten into fourth after being hampered in its run. Both can win soon, and the price of Calabaza was not encouraging! Keep an eye on that one in its next couple of races. One of my selections for the 5.10 Bath, Witchry, 12/1 third. Pity! The Name Is Frank, tipped by Steady Eddie, won at 9/2! I thought system bet Sir Tamburlane would run a better race in the 5.20 Uttoxeter, but just shows it doesn't always work! Will still be a system bet next time. The other, Miss Galross, looked as if it pulled up! I also had a little bet on Hallmark Harry, 4/1 winner. Well, with one notable exception, not much joy today! I thought Leleyf was going to win the 5.40 Bath, in a clear lead and apparently going better than anything. But, disgraceful! Dropped back into fourth, and worse still was given a five lenghts start by Lutine Bell! It's another one of those days, with my other selection Avongate running on for about fifth place. Do you ever feel you are being stitched up? If they are not told to try and win, they won't - fact! Some people assume that horses are trying to win every time. That is certainly the impression given by TV pundits. Not true! Be that as it may, it can be a terrible game to follow at times.

Another odds-on favourite beaten in Stefanki in the 6.00 Folkestone. What is the reaction of the owners if they have actually backed it? Pandemonium! Or perhaps they haven't? You never know in these situations. The best two in on old ratings, Starwatch and La Fortunata, finished third and second in the 6.10 Epsom. Pity about the favourite winning, as usual! I backed Dickie le Davoir (finished like a rocket in second) each-way in the 6.20 Doncaster, and got Divertimenti in the forecast! Pity, I fancied Sea Salt too, but didn't do the tricast! I thought tonight was the night for Caribbean Coral, but finished fifth after looking like taking a hand. They rearely win when they came second last time, my type of horse! Should have gone with Hannon's Daddy's Gift, which I have tipped a few times recently, and it was very short tonight! Second and fourth in the 6.40 Epsom with Cape Royal 7/1 and system bet Our Picadilly (thought it had got third)! Highland Harvest (14/1) was thrown in again, but not competitive tonight. How can they tell that it is not going to run well (14/1) unless those are the instructions? Interesting! Brynfa Boy (-26) winner. Gracchus (system type form) 9/1 winner of the 7.00 Leopardstown. I backed Our Way Only and Bakoura in a forecast for the 7.05 Folkestone. For once Prescott's Red Oleander did not figure, but will probably turn out over a mile and a half sometime in the future! I backed Chevise to beat Regal Approval in the 7.15 Epsom, but just worked out the other way. The winner dwarfed its opponent, which ran really well! System bet Whirly Dancer 5/1 winner of the 7.25 Doncaster. This Sakhee's Pearl must run better soon (looked to be going well tonight, but did not run on). Celtic Lynn is another to keep an eye on. How on earth did Sheila Toss win the 7.35 Folkestone so easily? I thought Kings Approach would show, but no! Fourth again! Must do better soon. Orsett Lad is also very well in. Bond Fastrac should be far better than it showed in the 7.55 Doncaster, and should do better very soon after it finished last tonight. Naughty, naughty, Amenable! You're not supposed to win with an outstanding first place from last season! They must have got impatient! Green Energy should at least have got second in the 8.10 Folkestone, but the jockey rode a strange race, as if instructed to do no better than third! All the same, very annoying if you backed it, as I did! I was sure that Vinces was coming to win the 8.20 Epsom, but I knew the form figures weren't right for a win, and it came second. Pity, I thought it would come in with Super Duplex, but I reckoned without King and Moore! Both Vinces and Super Duplex will do better soon. The Starboard Bow refused to go past Grams And Ounces for second in the 8.30 Doncaster, although it could have! I had a forecast riding on Epic and that one. Blast! Cost me quite a lot, but third place was probably its aim after a very poor run of form recently. That's the way they play it! Should probably have done the tricast with the favourite! My two picks for the 8.50 Epsom, Seneschal and Woodcote Place first and second at 16/1 and 15/2! Don't forget that I gave Seneschal as a 50/1 winner quite recently (see 22nd June), and both that one and Woodcote Place are still very well handicapped. That was nice and I needed it after a difficult run! I went from £1.50 to £19 in a couple of minutes!

21st July: My two selections for the 2.20 Worcster ran well in different ways, with Itzacliche right there most of the way, and Bathwick Breeze running on for fifth after struggling early (apparently). Both can do better soon, along with Thehonourablelady, which I have wasted a lot of money on recently. I suspect again that several horses were closely handicapped and not prepared to take each other on. System bet Aisemma 12/1 second. System bet Kodibelle 12/1 second in the 2.40 Catterick ( I got 28/1 earlier). Fortunately I backed it in a forecast with the winner, Lord Of The Storm 3/1! My each-way selection Box Of Frogs ran well for a long way and will do better, possibly in a handicap. Another odds-on favourite beaten with Five Out Of Five in the 2.50 Worcester. Should not really have happened with the favourite's rating! I thought I was certain to get forecast or tricast at one point in the 3.00 Lingfield, with Fromsong, Not My Choice, Dvinsky and What Katie Did all in contention! But the race changed dramatically in the closing stages, and only system bet Dvinsky won at 14/1, with the others nowhere! Ridiculous finish! Do they ease them up or what? All the others above will run well soon. Hanagan again with Mica Mika in the 3.10 Catterick! I backed Hortensis (third) each-way at 15/2. Keep an eye on Beyaz Villas, which seemed to pack up too easily from the way it was travelling. My first selection, Shergill 9/1 winner of the 3.20 Worcester! Unfortunately my other choice, Penric, fell fairly early. Keep an eye on that one and Always Cruising soon. Another complete changaround in the 3.30 Lingfield, with my selection Island Legend 10/1 looking a certain winner until being swallowed up by two others! Figaro Flyer was not sisghted today, but will win when wanted. Obviously from the betting everybody else thought that Golden Square and Rince Donn were well in today for the 3.50 Worcester, but it was my third choice, We're Delighted that ran best of the three! The writing was on the wall early for Golden Square, which led but was being ridden hell for leather, and I could tell at once that it wouldn't win. It is well in when wanted, however. I mentioned recently that Kansai Spirit had run a poor race, but it won today at 10/1! Wish I'd done it with its stablemate!One that should have done better was Ultravox, probably waiting for a handicap. Why on earth did Almaty Express stay on the far side in the 4.10 Catterick, unless they did not want it to win? Ridiculous, as it was thrown in! Captain Royale, Danum Dancer and Charles Parnell were three others much better in than the winner, Ursus! I got the forecast in the 4.20 Worcester, with my selection Marked Man 12/1 and Keltic Lord! My other selection, Young Tot finished fifth! I gave the winner and second in the 4.40 Catterick with Galpin Junior 11/4 and Raccoon 9/1! That's three winners so far today at 9/1, 12/1 and 11/4, and a few places, including a forecast in the 4.40 Catterick! And yet another winner with Deep Reflection 8/1 in the 4.50 Worcester! I back every Prescott runner now, and Madame De Stael won at 6/1 in the 5.00 Lingfield. I also had Dr Finley in third, and was glad that it didn't get second, as I didn't do the forecast! The latter will win soon. I have posted all of my recent selections here and you can view them each day for a limited period. My next selection, Parchment, was full of running in the 4.10 Catterick, but did not go through with it! Watch it soon. My other choice, Marino Prince, was just pipped for third by one I tipped last time, Amical Risks! I thought when Off Gallivanting pulled up in the 5.20 Worcester that I was certain to get the forecast with Mulaazem, but no! Sir Ronan appears out of nowhere and takes second place! What is going on? One of my final selections, Copperwood, finished third at 5/1, but did not go on when it appeared that it must win! Fortunately I also backed the winner, For Life 14/1, but the forecast would have been better! I guarantee that my other selection, Kipchak, will run better very soon. Nobel (second 10/1) was much better in than Mycenean Prince in the 5.50 Worcester, but looks as if the race had been decided beforehand, as they let McCoy make all! Monsieur was also better in, but did not really threaten the leaders. Both of these and Present (fourth) must do better soon. It's annoying when McCoy gets these odds-on favourites, because for some reason you can almost guarantee that they will win!

Well, Baylini (see 15th and 9th July) finally won in the 6.50 Sandown at 5/2 and I missed the race, after throwing away pounds on it in recent races! Sod's Law or what? They have you by the short and curlies, my friend! Johnston's Sky Falcon 9/1 winner of the 6.15 Leicester, with official top-rated Nothing to Hide 9/2 second (and I got the forecast)! System bet Jumbo Steps (-350) 14/1 second in the 6.30 Naas. Prescott again with Krypton Factor 9/2 in the 6.35 Sandown! His horses are coming in at good prices! That won't last when people realise it! System bet Rosiliant 8/1 second in the 6.45 Leicester. Transfixed was thrown in for the 7.20 Leicester, but not having shown for a long time, hung in behind the leaders to finish third. Must win soon. I tipped Angelina Ballerina recently (see 6th July), but did not expect it to win at 20/1! Strike Shot is another to keep an eye on now. System bet Louisiana Gift 100/30 second. Ongoodform should have done better in the 7.40 Sandown, so note it for the future. The way Kurtanella accelerated between rivals, then flattened out to finish third in the 7.50 Leicester suggested to me that it is ready to win soon. Falling Angel (sys+1) 12/1 second. As usual when I back Hanagan, his horse Angel Of Fashion ran no sort of race! Prince Of Thebes 16/1 was totally stopped from riding by the winner in the 8.10 Sandown, and would have won if that had not happened. Whether they will change the result, we'll see! Well, they didn't, so the stewards must have been on the winner! Aalsmeer (sys+1) 5/1 third in the 8.20 Leicester. Should have won on old ratings, but did not run on until too late (the ignominy of being beaten by a 55 rated horse!)

20th July: He's A Humbug was a running-on fourth in the 2.45 Yarmouth, which is no good, unfortunately! Can win soon. Top-weight Errigal Lad (-040) 16/1 second. System bet Bathwick Xaara third. Nawaaff and my other selection, Sweet Applause will do better soon. I fancied Mirza 5/1 winner in the 3.00 Ffos Las, especially with Hughes on it, and I got the forecast with Superior Edge for good measure! My selection, Albacocca 13/2 winner of the 3.15 Yarmouth, and my other selection, Polebrook ran on for third! Pity it was a 7 horse race! Could have had the tricast if I'd included the favourite instead of Best Of Broadway! My selection, Mutadarrej (7/2 third) was thrown in for the 3.30 Ffos Las, but the money for the favourite indicated that they knew Mutadarrej would not win. They are working up to it gradually. Second best Williams Way did not compete, but will do better soon. Go Amwell (fourth) will also do better. One of my selections, Al Rayanah, finished fast in third in the 3.45 Ffos Las. Up against some big stables there! Chantilly Dancer was not placed, but I feel sure will do better soon. Top-rated Huzzah made no effort in the 4.00 Ffos Las, tailed off last throughout. That merely tells me that it will probably win next time, as that is what form figures are all about! Zubova made a fast move around the outside, but eventually finished fourth. That one is better than that also. Seven horse races are rarely a good betting medium unless you are in the know! My selection, Norcroft, was thrown in for the 4.15 Yarmouth, but 33/1 in the betting, and for a short while I thought it was going to win, as the jockey set up a clear lead! Unfortunately it backed out of it late, so just testing! The 7lb claimer may have been a plus or otherwise, but in this case was a negative signal. Keep your eye on it, especially at Yarmouth, where Christine Dunnett likes to have winners. My other choice, This Ones For Eddy, was heavily backed, but never showed! That is another for the future. My third choice, Darcey, finished second at 9/2. The two best in for the 4.30 Ffos Las, Westwood and Memphis Man, finished third and fourth! You can't back when that happens, it turns into a no-hoper! I wondered why Signore Momento opened up favourite, and now I know! The last horse that I expected won the 5.00 Ffos Las, because, as far as I could tell, all the other horses were better in. Gandalf should have won, but preferred second, and Gold Ring made swift ground on the outside, then dropped out! Another one just testing! It's ridiculous when the best horses are not allowed to win, but they all have their own agendas for the future! It's a pity that nobody except the trainers and jockeys know about it! Even Valdan was a non-runner, probably because of the two that I selected! It's a day of nearlies or hopeless in the main today! And that was compounded by the final race, where my two selections, the thrown-in Russian Rocket and second best Bookiesindex Boy finished last and next to last. Fantastic! They apparently have more patience than me where winning is concerned. I feel like singing "What a load of ...", but I can't sing too well! You start off with such optimism, and they slowly throttle the life out of you!

Best in Donovan finished last of five again in the 6.10 Bangor, and Dunkelly Castle, despite being heavily backed, finished only second. They keep doing it over and over again! Don't worry, Donovan will win eventually, but what price will it be then? Magical Legend, Tarkesar (soon) and Mujamead of the Bangor runners must win very soon, the latter thrown in and going very well until headed tonight. If I had known that My Condor would be a non-runner, King Ozzy (won 11/2) was my next choice for the 8.10 Bangor.

19th July: Yesterday my selections included Strong Coffee 25/1 winner, Sea Wall 20/1 winner with Whataboutya 14/1 third in the same race, Tampa Boy won 11/2, Ballinteni won 5/2, On The Piste second 16/1 and Just Sam second 8/1. While some days can be very poor, if you keep picking the right horses, it must pay off eventually. My system also gave Lomitaar 33/1 winner (clearly indicated), Sea Wall (above) and Whataboutya (above), Penyfan Dawn 9/1 winner plus placed horses Maybe I Won't, Back In Business, and Aussie Blue. Not a bad day!

Thought I was going to get the forecast with Knotgarden and Tariq Too in the 2.15 Yarmouth, but the latter flattened out, allowing the reluctant? My Manikato to grab second! So I had everything coverd if Tariq Too had run a bit better! I always get the feeling that they know what is going to happen in these races! Why is it when I back Johnston's outsiders they are in third place, then drop back into fourth or fifth? Denices Moonlight was a case in point in the 2.30 Ayr. Channon's Spring Bouquet ran on for second at 20/1. Impossible to know how much improvement there is in these horses! In other words, don't put much on in maiden races! There has been a huge gamble on one of my selections this afternoon (The Human League) in the 5.30 Ayr. Such money is usually significant for Channon's horses, as it is not a noted gambling stable. As I was talking about Channon, I backed his Highlife Dancer in the 2.45 Yarmouth, winning at 6/1! My selection, Cold Quest, is a definite for next time now, as it raced up with the pace, then dropped right out to last place! Ridiculous, absolutely thrown in today! How long do you have to wait? Money after money down the drain, but they couldn't care less! Red Jester was also poor, running on in mid-race. My two third rated Glenluji (Hanagan again!) and Morocchius, finished first and third at 4/1 and 5/1. I think the 7lb claim on Rough Rock made the difference in beating Whisky Junction in the 3.15 Yarmouth, but I did the reverse forecast. Pity I put a win bet on Whiskey Junction, as I was quite confident beforehand. Ruth Carr pipped me again on Only A Splash in the 3.30 Ayr! I noticed some late money for it. How annoying! I thought Bed Fellow had it easily, but second again. My other two picks, Crocodile Bay (wondered whether its form figures were right with a 1 front and back), dropped out and Primo Way fourth. Never seen it front-run before! My two selections for the 3.40 Ayr. Watch Chain 13/2 and a Pocketful of Rye 12/1, first and second! Just missed the tricast, even though I backed the first three! Blast! Barastar was my other choice, which sank my tricast! My next selection, Kings Head non-runner! Why does that always happen? Perhaps they were helping Hanagan to have another winner? Hanagan again with Silent Lucidity in the 4.00 Ayr. What is up with that man? He's possessed! Kimberley Downs front-ran for a long way, and was best in of the remainder, finishing only fifth. Must win soon. Ohana obviously needed the run, not having run for a long time, and will do better. Keep an eye on Amical Risks, which ran on late for fourth. I got the tricast in the 4.15 Yarmouth, with Allanah Abu and my two selections, Mayfairs Future and Spinning Waters. The latter finished only third again, but should have been second on previous form. Knew I shouldn't tip Hanagan too much, and Wi Dud did not figure in the 4.30 Ayr, but Cheveton finished third at 6/1. Keep an eye on Fullandby soon. Pavershooz had system type form (-060) and finished second at 12/1. Alos knew that I shouldn't overlook Favourite Girl, but unfortunately I did! You will rarely get the same results twice in these handicaps, as there are always horses that underperform on the day, for whatever reason. I fancied Seattle Speight quite strongly in the 4.45 Yarmouth, and it won with something in hand. Don't know what happened to Market Puzzle, which should have figured, but ran a shocker! Sternian will also do better again. Plenty of money for Commando Scott in the 5.00 Ayr, but finished only fifth or sixth. My other selection, River Falcon, finished fourth, but could have done better. That's no good in a less than 16 runner race! Also look out for Geojimali (system bet next time). I don't understand the short prices on some of these horses, including Turnkey, if they are not going to be competitive! Rothesay Dancer ran so badly that we can expect a better run from that one in a smaller race soon. Summers Target (5.15 Yarmouth) has been messing around for a long time, and I thought today was the day, but no! Backed out again! Perhaps the presence of Count Ceprano put them off, but surely that was not necessary? Bookiebasher Babe also dropped back, and was third best in. Don't know where that Clearing House came from, must have been by default! Oh, they are so annoying, always getting an unexpected result! My selection, Reach For The Sky 28/1 second in the 5.30 Ayr! I also backed system bet Rasselas for the forecast! Pity about The Human League, which ran on late. Steady Eddie's tip Monte Mayor One finished third, and I could have included it for the tricast! Still, mustn't be greedy, but I did consider it. Look out for Weetentherty and The Human League soon. I thought system bet and one of my selections, Thewinnatakesitall 8/1 was coming to win the 6.00 Ayr, but just got pipped by Ya Boy Sir. My other selection, The Two G's, is getting a bit frustrating, and must do better soon.

I cannot believe that Orpen Wide (6.10 Windsor) has not won yet off its current mark! I shall keep backing it (system bet next time)! System bet Urban Space 9/2 winner with system bet Choral Festival 10/1 second! Mt Kyntire will probably run better next time out. I backed Binocular each-way in the 6.20 Ballinrobe, winning at 6/1! Gambled on Golan Go missed the break, ran up to dispute the lead, then dropped out! Talenti should have won at the weights in the 6.40 Windsor, but only ran on late for third, depriving me of a place with Penfield Pirate! Keep an eye on Brave Ghurka, which was hacking behind, did not run into a place tonight, but is primed for a handicap very soon! Rub Of The Relic (7.00 Beverley) ran very poorly tonight, but is better than that and should do better next time. Snowed Under (third) can also win soon. Seldom (system type form) 15/2 winner of the 7.30. Dhhamaan is still thrown in when wanted, and worth backing each time out in the future. I tipped Caranbola (8.30) on its last run (see 28th May), and it won tonight at the shortish price of 5/1, so must have been quite well backed. System bet Kilburn 8/1 winner of the 8.40 Windsor. Straight Face will be worth a bet soon.

18th July: Almost got the forecast with Tout Regulier and Carhue Princess in the 2.20 Stratford (just beaten on the run-in!). But as it was a 7 horse race, I got nothing! Marvellous! I wanted to back Gulf Punch in the 2.30 newton abbot, but compromised with a forecast with Lucky Quay! Drat! System bet Maybe I Won't 7/1 second in the 2.40 Redcar. I was expecting a better run from the thrown in Royal Indulgence, so watch for it soon now. Efidium missed the break - typical, and will run better soon. I got the first three home in the 2.50 Stratford, with Douchkette, Swiss Art (forecast) and Tigh Bhrudair (third 16/1)! Couldn't pick the runner-up, Intac, in the 3.00 Newton Abbot! No apparent chance at the weights! Did everything but the right forecast in the 3.10 Redcar, but Gower Sophia was the one that let me down, as I had it with On The Piste 16/1 second and Bronze Beau! First, third and fourth in the 3.20 Stratford, with system bet Sea Wall 20/1, system bet Whataboutya 14/1 (same stable) and Parc Na Gcapall! Where did that Dead Or Alive come from? Blast! As a complete contrast, the best two in, Quaddick Lake and Procas De Thaix finished fourth and pulled up in the 3.30 Newton Abbot! Another example of ridiculous results! My selection, Ballinteni, formerly a 100 rated horse, won the 3.45 Redcar at 5/2. My second choice, Kashimin, did not run on at the end, and will do better. The outsider, Media Stars, looked like winning at one point, and must win a handicap soon. Seven horse arces (I meant to write 'races', but 'arces' is almost right)! The best three in all failed to get in the first two in the 3.55 Stratford. I tend to look for the most unlikely winner now in these races, as the ratings go out the window! Winsley Hill, Sea Cliff and McQueen were my three best, but they obviously did not want to compete with each other! What a farce! One of my selections, Strong Coffee 25/1 winner in the 4.05 Newton Abbot! Pauillac ran on late, but did not get in the places. There's always one, isn't there! My third choice, Back In Business, finished third! Wish I had done Rifleman (second) for the tricast, as I had backed it (and given it as a selection) in its previous three races! Red Cape (4.20 Redcar), keeps disappointing, finishing third today in a 7 horse race. My other choice, Just Sam, second at 8/1. Another winner with Tampa Boy 11/2 in the 4.25 Stratford! Was slightly better in than Chevy To The Levy, which probably explains the latter's poor effort. That one can win soon. System bet Lomitaar 33/1 winner of the 4.35 Newton Abbot! What a prat, I backed it last time! Just to compensate, I got the forecast and tricast in the 4.50 Redcar, with Very Well Red 8/1 (a horse I always back, as it always seems to win when wanted), Salerosa 5/1 and Wiseman's Diamond! That was nice! keep an eye on Briary Mac, which appears very well handicapped! System bet Penyfan Dawn 9/1 winner of the 4.55 Stratford. I almost expected Risk Challenge not to win, but had to select it! Apache Dawn was a non-runner (wondered what happened to it during the race), so watch for both next time! Boy Racer was clear best in with the defection of Tres Froide, but obviously they are waiting a bit longer! System bet Aussie Blue third. I think Musigny will do better shortly. Zefooha let me down for the tricast in the 5.50 Redcar! The horse always seems to win when they want it! Why can I never get it quite right, as I fancied Jenny Soba (third). Of course, being a seven horse race again, the each-way didn't count! You can never win! I had everything covered but the first three, and it would have paid well! Here is what I selected today:

Royal Indulgence (unplaced) /Efidium (fifth) (2.40 Red), Gower Sophia (fourth) /On The Piste (second 16/1) (3.10 Red), Whataboutya (third 14/1) /Sea Wall (won 20/1!) (3.20 Strat), Procas De Thaix (pulled up) /Quaddick Lake (fourth) (3.30 Newt), Ballinteni (won 5/2) /Kashimin (unplaced) (3.45 Red), Pauillac (unplaced) /Strong Coffee (won 25/1!) (4.00 Newt), Red Cape (third 5/2) /Just Sam (second 8/1) (Tabaret non-runner) (4.20 Red), Tampa Boy (won 11/2) /Chevy To The Levy (unplaced) (4.25 Strat), Risk Challenge (fifth) /Apache Dawn (non-runner) (4.55 Strat), Tres Froide (non-runner) /Boy Racer (unplaced) (5.20 Red). Posted at 12.30 p.m. Just shows when they try, they win! Not too bad today, a 25/1 winner, a 20/1 winner, an 11/2 winner, a 5/2 winner, a 16/1 place, a 14/1 place and an 8/1 place!

17th July: The front-running Australia Day 7/1 winner of the 2.00 Market Rasen. I backed it on the flat last time! My choice Nordwind will probably do better next time when a system bet. Acambo was up there, then dropped out, and is becoming frustrating! Keep an eye on Secret Tune, pulled up today, but better than that! Official top-rated Regal Parade 15/2 winner of the 2.15 Newbury! I remarked on its poor running in its previous two races. Reason? A better price? I backed Peppercorn Rent (2.25 Ripon) and remarked on it last time, but did not back it today! The things they do! I gave Snoqualmie Girl as one of my selections in the 2.30 Newmarket, and it finished second at 10/1. I was fortunate enough to do the forecast with Eastern Aria (7/1 winner)! System bet First City 8/1 winner of the 2.45 Newbury with system bet Whats Up Pussycat (hampered) 20/1 in third. My two selections, Amary (chased for a long way) and Ella Gorrie Mou will do better soon. None of my top-rated tried to win the 2.55 Ripon, including the gambled Hill Of Miller, Royal Record (missed break, brief effort on the outside) and Twisted. Frustrating! All three must do better soon. System bet Start Right 13/2 winner of the 3.00 Newmarket. Special Envoy appeared to break a leg in the 3.05 Market Rasen so that was one selection doen. The other, Corkage, never got into contention, so watch out for it next time! I looked at Mumbles Pier 28/1 winner (liked its figures) before the race, but did not back it. Raslan is becoming very disappointing, but is still worth another bet. I had a little on Temple Meads, which was impressive previously. Moheebb,despite being backed, ran no sort of race in the 3.25 Ripon, nor did Rosbay, but the latter's trainer's nephew won the race, which explains a lot! One of my selections, Silverburn, 18/1 fourth in the 3.35 Market Rasen. Was thrown in, but only ran on late for fourth. Must win when wanted. Keep an eye on Stan, which refuses to win, but will do so soon. Hannon's system bet Red Badge 28/1 winner of the 3.55 Newbury! Poet (20/1) ran well, but apparently only wanted third, as it ran on again when headed. Stimulation was best in, but ran appallingly! Kingdom Of Munster was thrown in for the 4.00 Ripon, but I doubted whether it would win, and I was right, finishing last! Keep an eye on it, as they are looking for a race soon. Bolodenka finished sixth in the 4.35 Ripon, but is much better than that. They are messing around with it! I feel sure my other selection, Jackson will do better, being a foreign import. They don't do that for nothing! Unusually, Ruth Carr had a 25/1 winner with San Cassiano! Wonders will never cease! Judgethemoment was another one thrown in to finish last in the 4.40 Newmarket. You can tell from the betting, but you have to back them! It would be nice if they just showed something! And a hat-trick of similar races, with Indian Pipe Dream finishing last of five in the 4.45 Market Rasen! What a farce! You can't back on ratings when they run like crabs! That's three best in horses finishing fifth of five! With that fifth place, they will probably now take another race, but you never know, because it was a last place! Well, I don't know! No money for best-in Swordsman (even with Hayley on it) in the 5.05 Newbury, and it went out like a light, as did Graylyn Ruby. Try them again next time! Told you Saturdays were terrible! I don't believe it! A winner with Chushka 11/4 in the 5.10 Ripon! What happened? Sea Crest, my other choice, finished fourth, but can do better. Once again the best in were useless in the 5.20 Market Rasen, with Viper and Nesnaas (both asymmetrical - should have known it) tailing off, and Wee Forbees only threatening briefly from too far back. Give up man! Who said you know anything about form? It does make me feel like that some days! But the best thing is that I know they are the best and will win when wanted! The rest of it is often play-acting of the highest order, and I congratulate the jockeys! Of course, most of them have had plenty of practice! Clearly today is another of those Saturdays where everything goes wrong, or is made to go wrong? What is it about Saturdays that makes them so bad? Peter Tchaikovsky was too big a price to be competitive in the 5.40 Ripon, and ran in front briefly, being ridden like a dervish as often happens in these cases. How many noughts do they want for that one? It's got more than a complete set now. It's only a question of when it starts to show. I was hoping that Ruth would have another big-priced winner with Top Jaro, but that never showed either. My other choice, Royal Applord, took a clear lead a couple of furlongs out, then packed up as well. 7-8 furlongs should be ideal for that one, possibly next time. Tae Kwon Do might also be worth a tickle soon. The only redeeming grace in this race was that system bet (small nibble for me) Joined Up Writing finished third at 22/1! The winner Explorator went past them as if standing still, so must be very well treated at present.

Just back Hannon or Fahey! Miss Dutee 8/1 winner of the 6.20 Lingfield! A horse for every occasion! I didn't see the rest of the evening racing, or check the results, but will comment later if I have time. Welsh Emperor could not win its own race in the 8.10 Haydock! What a shame, was it too obvious? Will probably win a different race, though. System bet Pintura 5/1 winner of the 8.40 Haydock. Stamford Blue, Rio Royale and Ever Cheerful are three to note from the 6.50 Lingfield. Chinese Democracy finished like a rocket to win! I couldn't pick that, so must be very well handicapped! System bet Titus Gent 33/1 second! Cupid's Glory (7.50 Lingfield) should be noted again soon, but is usually backed if it is winning. Easy Target (8.20) is a similar case from the same stable. Akhmatova (8.50) won easily at 11/1, so is clearly well handicapped at present.

16th July: I backed Clive Cox's Winter's Night each-way in the 2.00 Newbury, and was gutted to see it finish fourth! I also backed Hannon's Celebrity, (9/2 winner) so it wasn't too bad. Fair Bunny was best in for the 2.10 Nottingham, but I wasn't sure whether it would perform with an oustanding first place, and I was right (unfortunately). Cookie Galore was also right up there before dropping out. Both should be noted soon. I got a good price on Swinbank's Silvertrees in the 2.20 Haydock, but was a bit greedy for the forecast when I should have done the favourites! I backed Kingarrick and Barathea Dancer each-way in the 2.35 Newbury, and both ran well and are worth keeping an eye on for the future. The two with previous placed form finished first and second, but I didn't back them (good forecast). I backed Formal Demand each-way in the 2.45 Nottingham, finishing second at 10/1. If I had trusted the money for the favourite, Dream Ahead, I could have had the forecast there too! Best-in Highland Warrior did not show in the 2.55 Haydock, nor did Northern Dare, but both should do better very soon. Fortunately I had a small bet on system bet and third-rated Evelyn May, 20/1 winner! Comrade Bond appeared to be going better than the leader in the 3.20 Nottingham, but, as usual, anything that I back does not finish off! Keep an eye on that one. System bet Reginald Claude 7/1 winner. Damn! Missed it! Tasmeem is much better than it showed today in the 3.30 Haydock, but no money for it! I also tipped Dancing Red Devil, which finished third at 25/1. And for good measure I got Supreme Spirit second at 12/1! Pity I didn't put the favourite in again! I'll never learn! We have to wait again for Silver Symphony, which made good ground on the inside, then dropped out tamely again. Pity, because its form figures were promising. Well handicapped when wanted. My second choice, Love Action, finished third at 8/1. I kept looking at Madhaaq, because Maktoum horses often do this. Why did they back Rainbow Mirage today, when it ran no sort of race? Obviously not stable money, but it will probably do better next time. Second best San Antonio blazed off in front, and third best Exit Smiling finished only fourth. All in all a disaster, but bear those three in mind. How I hate this game sometimes, but keep smiling for the future! Christmas Carnival (-35) 12/1 winner! Brooklands Bay is better than it showed in the 4.05 Haydock, but what can you do when they are outsiders with no intention of showing? Again, all the best in horses seemed to shy away from winning in the 4.20 Newbury! Peopleton Brook, The Tatling and The Jobber all failed to shine, and I was glad I had a little saver on system bet Blessed Place at 16/1 (returned 12/1)! I couldn't pick the second and third, but I think they got there by courtesy of the aforementioned! Better Be Blue was best in for the 4.30 Nottingham, but did not want to win on these terms, running on late for fourth. Second best in Sternian won at 5/1, and I had a bigger bet on that. I don't know what they are doing with King's Point (4.40 Haydock) but it is absolutely thrown in when they want it! As a system bet today, I expected it to win, but no joy, dropping out tamely! Gosh, they make you go through the mill with such horses! Timber Treasure is another that can win soon. System bet Arabian Spirit 5/1 third. Not much joy so far today! And none in the 4.55 Newbury, where Sohcatoa did not show (probably will next time) and Strategic Mission threatened briefly on the outside before dropping out. Both will do better soon. I backed Topaze Star each-way in the 5.05 Nottingham, and I feel sure it is better than it showed today. Possibly waiting for handicaps? I looked at Jivry, by Generous, but missed backing it! Yet another not wanted in Ra Junior (fourth) in the 5.15 Haydock! I detest days like this, where almost nothing I back tries to win! Even second rated Cool Baranca finished third! Well might as well round off with a total travesty! Sgt Schultz, thrown in, finished last in the 5.30 Newbury with second best in Ebiayn second last, and my other choice, Admirable Duque also labouring! I wondered why winner Straight Laced was such a short price. All three of the aforementioned will do much better, but what are they up to? You might as well stick a pin in for races run like this! Huh! I backed Sea Of Galilee each-way and Chelsea Morning each-way, but didn't do the forecast in the 5.40 Nottingham! What was the matter with Scorn, which no doubt will win next time? Well, migbht as well keep it up! The only two horses I didn't fancy in the 5.50 Newmarket, Sunley Spinalonga and Laconicos, finished first and second! Folio was best in with Orpen Wide (third) second best in and Iceman George third. They just don't try in these small races! Think I'll give up for the day. Fridays and wekends! Tell me about them! I just think that everybody concerned with these races knows what is going to happen in advance. There can be no other explanation! More hopeless cases in the 6.10 Hamilton, with Cold Quest, Rain Stops Play and Navajo Joe! The first two (both -36) will be system bets next time, which possibly explains their poor running today. Two of the above hampered each other, which didn't help! The only redeeming feature was Coole Dodger (second) which I tipped recently. Keep an eye on Upark Flyer (again) from the 6.45 Hamilton, which, in my opinion, was going better than the first and second, but was not allowed to move any closer. System bet Glen Shiel 11/2 winner of the 6.55 Newmarket. Pity I only had a small bet on it, but it's a rare winner today! Wonder why Right Grand was 16/1? Had me worried for a moment with a good turn of foot! System bet and last yyear's winner Umverti 6/1 winner of the 7.05 Pontefract! Unfortunately didn't back that one! When will I learn? Bonnie Prince Blue and Dickie Le Davoir were both better rated than Mr Hardy in the 7.15 Hamilton, but I didn't expect them to win on these terms. Better off in a handicap again shortly. System bet Angus Newz 11/1 second in the 7.25 Newmarket. Wish I'd done it with the favourite (but the return would not have been great). Nota Bene looked like doing better, but faded. System bet Kingdom Of Light 12/1 winner of the 7.35 Pontefract (I got 20/1), and I almost got the forecast with Green Park (6/1 third). I had Damika 33/1 each-way in the 7.45 Hamilton, but nothing else I backed got into it, including the well-in Baby Strange! This Lowdown must be a group type horse if Damika ran to form! Oldjoesaid should run better soon. Back against Hannon if you dare! Cumulus Nimbus 10/1 winner of the 7.55 Newmarket. How come it always wins when I don't back it? I would definitely recommend a bet on Classic Descent next time out, as this was the first time it has not been placed tonight for some time, and it is thrown in when wanted. I also backed Boy Blue, which was well in and finished third. The jockey was very keen to grab third place at the end, which is a good sign. Also keep an eye on Glenmuir soon. Wind Shuffle led for a long time tonight in the 8.20 Hamilton, and will run better soon. I had the forecast with Bollin Felix and Lady Luachmhar (both 3/1). System bet Avitus 9/2 winner of the 8.40 Pontefract from system type bet Descaro 8/1 in second. Gosforth Park had a trial run today, and should do better shortly, along with Maybeme. Swinbank's Robbie Burnett 9/1 winner of the 8.50 Hamilton. Should have spotted it! I had a little tickle on Aviso 25/1 in the 9.00 Newmarket, but couldn't believe the drift on it from Barnie Curley's stable! Baylini just got pipped for a place in fourth (15 runners!). Ruth Carr's Orpsie Boy 7/2 winner of the 9.10 Pontefract. Backed again! I thought Mr Wolf would at least get a place, but, guess what! Fourth again! Commando Scott must run better soon now. Wovoka was thrown in for the 9.20 Hamilton, started to make ground, but was still not wanted! Must win, possibly next time! King Of The Moors led for a long way and could have held on, but another not wanted. Fortunately Finsbury did run on for third at 12/1. The problem was that it was the stablemate of the winner, so instructions were obvious!

15th July: Mr Macattack was best in on old form for the 2.10 Leicester, and I thought it was coming through to challenge, but eventually finished fourth. Hobson was another which did not perform, finishing fifth. I had a feeling about Rio Cobolo (second), which often returns to form after a series of poor runs. I picked the right forecast in the 2.20 Leicester, with Satin Love 7/4 and Intrusion 3/1! When Johnston's are well backed, they rarely lose! My two selections for the 2.30 Cartmel, Risk Runner 13/2 (top-rated) and Kind Heart (5/2) finished third and second. Both had outstanding first places from last season, which may explain why they did not win today. Veil Of Night (-440) 16/1 winner of the 2.40 Leicester! Just shows system type figures do work! Silca Conegliano must be better than it showed today (system next time). My two picks for the 2.50 Hamilton, system bet Bonnie Prince Blue 11/4 and top-rated Galpin Junior 18/1, second and third again! I think it was just a badly timed run from Bonnie Prince Blue, but it probably needs further. The run of Guest Connections tells me that it is going to run well very soon! System bet High Stand Lad 12/1 winner of the 3.05 Cartmel, from one of my choices, Peak Seasons 11/1. Lukie Victor was out of it, but watch it next time! I also had a little each-way on Ice Image, (third 10/1) which I have backed recently. None of my top-rated got into contention in the 3.25 Hamilton, although Catbells was going better than most, but did not finish off. Royal Holiday and Key Breeze (fourth) were two others equally weighted, which is perhaps why they did not get involved. All of these will do better shortly. Petite Margot (3.40 Cartmel), got outpaced, then ran on again for a close fourth! I also backed Mizen Raven, which won at 15/2. My other choice, Parc Na Gcapall, was a non-runner. I fancied Myplacelater (6/1 winner) in the 3.50 Leicester, but went with the top-rated Prompter, which ran terribly after leading! Iwas about to back the former when the race went off! Pity about the long race at Cartmel! Well, I managed to get the forecast with Ashbrittle and Wadnaan in the 4.00 Hamilton, and an each-way on system bet Mighty Mambo 25/1 in third! I didn't think the favourite would get there! Bold Exit (-0500) 25/1 winner from system bet Ace High Blue in the 4.15 Cartmel. My two picks for the 4.35 Hamilton, Klynch and Geojimali, were clearly not wanted today, as they were outsiders and did not make much effort, finishing in midfield. Both will do better shortly, but will probably be backed. I also backed Imprimis Tagula, (9/2 winner) which was my third best. Don't know what happened to Top Bid, but never even started properly! Fanatastic! I got the tricast in the 4.50 Cartmel, with my selection and system bet Rare Coincidence 10/1, my second selection Cannon Fire 4/1 and Soubriquet 11/1! My selections for the 5.00 Leicester (fortunately I missed the bet) Zaif and Marino Prince finished fifth and fourth, but both can win soon, the former being thrown in. I also had the winner Astronomical 4/1 and the second, Dazzling Begum 9/1 on my list, giving me four of the first five! Connections of Santiago Atitlan decided to throw in a duff run today in the 5.10 Hamilton after finishing third last time out. However, they don't fool me and that one is thrown in when wanted. Lake Chini only ran on too late for fourth, and is another worth a bet soon. Galley Slave, best in for the 5.20 Cartmel, was backed off the boards, but finished only fourth. I don't know if it will ever win a race! My selection for the 5.30 Leicester, Peopleton Brook, was one of the favourites this morning, but drifted out in the betting, and I was slightly worried, and in the end it finished fourth, even though it was thrown in at the weights. My other selection, Tag Team, led for quite a way, but capitulated late on. I thought that, with the favourite missing the break, one of these would win. Both of them can win soon. Fortunately I also backed system bet Call The Law each-way, and it finished a close third at 25/1 to give me something back. System bet Misterisland 12/1 second. Is it just coincidence, or did I get a lot of fourths and fifths today? That's the sort of horse I back!

I saw a few of the races in the evening, but did not back anything (in most cases thank goodness), and have no comments to make at present.

14th July: I had Freedom Fire to beat Apache Dawn in the 2.10 Uttoxeter, which worked out right, but the problem was that Paddy Partridge beat both of them! Couldn't have the winner, but it was Vaughan's (and Michael Owen's) I suppose. I am always suspicious when a trainer says his horse will run well (why would they do that?), as in the case of Apache Dawn, and as I suspected, it didn't win, but will do better in a handicap. Trying to get some value, I backed Spartic to beat Bay Of Fires in the 2.20 Catterick, but should have backed the favourite to beat the ousider Bradbury. It's a real minefield, a three horse race! System bet Ambrose Princess 3/1 winner of the 2.30 Lingfield, but I assure you that Swordsman (dropped back, ran on for second 16/1) and Free Falling (fast closing third) were both much better in and obviously not wanting a win today, as indicated by their huge prices. You can never tell what the plans are in these small races! Tora Petcha was best in for the 2.40 Uttoxeter, but after leading, going well, packed up quickly! How often do they do that for no apparent reason? Will win a race soon. Fortunately I also backed the winner, Holoko Heights 9/2! Musca almost nicked a win at 22/1 in the 2.50 Catterick, but not sure if it really wanted to win! My other pick, Lindoro, best in, finished only third (too far back), and must win when running to form (system next time). Could not pick the winner, Cross Of Lorraine on its ratings, but did not realise they were both the same stable - crafty, crafty! My two picks for the 3.00 Lingfield, Calm And Serene and system bet Little Meadow, both ran intersesting races! Calm And Serene ran in front for a long way, then dropped out (always interesting for the future), and Little Meadow also looked like winning at one point, eventually coming fourth! Both will be worth a little bet before long (mine were quite small at the prices today). I thought my selection and system bet The Duke's Speech 16/1 was certain to win the 3.10 Uttoxeter, but just pipped on the line by the favourite! Blast! My other choice, Cadoulitique was 50/1, not promising, and can do better soon. Film Festival was thrown in for the 3.20 Catterick, so must have run below form to be beaten by system bet Eijazz! Second best in Lucayan Dancer was a big price and only ran on for fifth place at the end. Well, I have had at least a place for each selected race today, but not enough winners, which makes a big difference to returns! I was trying to avoid the odds-on favourite Jet Away in the 3.30 Lingfield, so backed Johnston's Autumn Riches each-way. I may be wrong, but it looked to me that it could have won, and was pulled back in the final furlong. One to keep an eye on! I thought I had another winner in system bet and top-rated Balladeer 25/1 in the 3.40 Uttoxeter, but no, second again! I was a bit concerned before the race, because the Hill stable normally backs them when they are going to run well (it had a favourite winner earlier)! Triggernometry, next best in, ran a shocker, and will do better. Wish I would put the favourites in my forecasts, because they are nearly always in contention! The problem with outsiders is that most of the time they are not intended to win, even if they run well! They nearly always find something to beat them! The favourite won the 3.50 Catterick, a pity, as I wanted the second and third for a forecast! Well, I still have at least a place for my selections in every race, can't last! Knew I should have backed Freckenham each-way in the 4.00 Lingfield, instead of backing the favourite to beat it! But you never know with Beckett's runners (Rafella -000 33/1 winner!). Odds-on favourite beaten again! I thought Cinaman was a sure winner three out in the 4.10 Uttoxeter, but another one just pipped (same stable again)! What is happening? Another second with Danceintothelight 11/1 in the 4.20 Catterick! Amazing! Can't have a result in every race, surely? Never happened before! Well, at least one of my choices, Benandonner, won the 4.30 Lingfield at 7/1! Keeps up the record today! Docofthebay did not show, but must do better soon. It was given as a tip by At The Races pundit Hugh Taylor, which may explain its poor showing, as they don't like the spotlight on them! Still another second place with Favours Brave 5/1 in the 4.40 Uttoxter. Looked to be going better than the winner, so keep an eye on it. My other choice, Erdeli, looked like taking a hand until a bad mistake. The first two for the forecast in my next set of selections with George Benjamin 2/1 winner and Viking Warrior 7/4 second (in the right order), and I gave a note about Tislaam, which finished 9/2 third! And a clean sweep of at least placed horses in every selected race with Faithful Duchess 8/1 third in the 5.00 Lingfield! I also had a look at Valmina (second 25/1) because of its system type figures. System bet Primary Colours 6/1 second in the 7.50 Kempton. Having tipped Snoqualmie Boy recently, I was tempted by the 16/1 winner Snoqualmie Star, but didn't back it, missing the forecast! Master Cardor Visa (sys+2) 50/1 second in the 8.10 Worcester. I think Glacial Harry would have got third but for falling at the last. The fact that Heezagrey finished third doesn't say much for the rest of them, although I think She's Little Don will do better if fit. I backed Mishrif (second) each-way in the 8.20 Kempton, but I forgot about L'Hirondelle, (-040) which seems to find a lot when wanted! Cobo Bay should have done better in this company, but never seems to run two races alike! Oh, I see, getting rid of a first place! A typical travesty in the 8.40 Worcester, with Prophete De Guye being the worst rated of the runners by my reckoning! It should have been between Alfadora and Distiller on my ratings, with Quarrytown third, taking claims into account. The betting said otherwise, and suggested that each stable had its own priorities as regards placings. Hinton Admiral was thrown in for the 8.50 Kempton, but was never sighted! Will it win next time? I doubt it, but make a note. Copperwood in third is another to note for next time, along with Tudor Prince in a couple of races time..

I started the evening well with a small each-way on Cilium 6/1 in the 6.30 Killarney. I chose it because its price was too short for its form figures. Another winner with Frosted Grape 3/1 in the 6.40 Worcester. One which I had backed several times recently finally gave me a return! Hannon again with Byrony in the 6.50 Kempton, and I didn't back it! Should have known better with Moore looking for winners! I was hoping system bets Prophet In A Dream (travelled supremely well) and Uncle Dermot (fourth and fifth) would do better. I got the first two and the forecast in the 7.10 Worcester, with Devito (sys+1) 12/1 and Risk Challenge (-W40) 16/1! Pity, I wanted Go Free for the tricast, but it dropped right out! That one will do better, probably next time. Top-rated Mustamad (see my tip 6th June) 50/1 winner of the 7.40 Worcester (I got 66/1)! That was nice! I got the winner with Paddleyourowncanoe 10/1 in the 9.10 Worcester, which I had also backed last time, when it finished like a rocket! Armenian Boy and Osolomio can do better. System bet Consulate 20/1 second.

Here are the selections I made this afternoon, with results (if you would like to receive selections like this on a subscription service, please email me.

This afternoon's top-rated: Swordsman (second 16/1) (2.30 Ling), Tora Petcha (unplaced)/Holoko Heights (won 9/2) (2.40 Utt), Lindoro (third 9/4)/Musca (second 22/1) (2.50 Catt), The Duke's Speech (second 16/1)/Cadoulitique (unplaced) (3.10 Utt), Film Festival (second 7/4) /Lucayan Dancer (fifth)(3.20 Catt), Balladeer (second 25/1) /Triggernometry (unplaced) (3.40 Utt), Heretoeternity (unplaced) /Cinaman (second 7/2) (4.10 Utt), Danceintothelight (second 11/1) /Lava Lamp (unplaced) (4.20 Catt), Docofthebay (unplaced) /Benandonner (won 7/1!) (4.30 Ling), Favours Brave (second 5/1)/Erdeli (bad mistake, fourth) (4.40 Utt), George Benjamin (won 2/1)/Viking Warrior (second 7/4) (4.50 Catt), Dream Number (made ground, unplaced)/Faithful Duchess (8/1 third) (5.00 Ling). Note that Tislaam (third 9/2) is best in on past performances for the 4.50 Catterick, but not sure if it will win on these terms. Posted at 12 noon. At least a place in every race, with three winners, 9/2, 7/1 and 2/1 and a forecast, including mentions for the first three in the 4.50 Catterick! Incidentally, any that I have given above which have not won should be noted, as they are due soon!

13th July: System bet Saltergate second in the 2.00 Beverley. I thought it would win a furlong out! The winner, Katell was by Statue Of Liberty, which I didn't spot before the race. I started off with a 12/1 winner in Best One in the 2.10 Brighton! System bet Albero Di Guida third at 10/1 (which I also backed). Almaty Express was best in, but decided to throw in a duff run today. And a second winner with Jupiter Fidius 8/1 in the 2.30 Beverley! My other choice, Saxby, finished third at 4/1 and I had the forecast with Cono Zur! Top-rated Forest Dane finished last in the 2.40 Brighton, but this Mandhooma 8/1 keeps winning - three in a row! Must be a well-handicapped horse! Strange how a horse has loads of runs without showing, then wins everything. Natural improvement? I had Golden Grimshaw 5/1 in the 2.50 Downpatrick, with Silver Buttons in third! Back to reality in the 3.00 Beverley, where my two selections Ninth House and King's Sabre finished next to last and last. Only a temporary blip for these two horses, which were by far best in, but probably scared of each other. This sort of thing happens a lot in racing, and you can also keep an eye on King Of The Moors, which front-ran for a long time today. The winner, Shadowtime, is by Singspiel, and the gamble today implied either that it has improved a lot recently, or that they knew that the better handicapped horses would not be involved. System bet Miss Moneypenni 5/2 winner of the 3.10 Brighton. Unfortunately I backed Surprise as my main bet, and it ran all over the shop in the middle of the course to finish third! Should have known that Channon's would be involved! Keep an eye on Larnalee in Ireland, which made rapid ground from the back, then dropped out again. I have seen so many races where this happens, and it is a trial run. Alamiyan is another to keep aneye on next time. Palomar was best in for the 3.30 Beverley, but refused to go past the leader and eventually finished third at 10/1. My second choice, They All Laughed, was too close to the pace today and stayed behind the leaders. Can win soon. Another to watch is Kingsdale Orion, which I think will be competitive next time. They were all sitting ducks for Markington, which possesses a turn of foot. My three top-rated in the 3.40 Brighton decided to stay out of it today: Easy Wonder, Prince Valentine (fourth) and King's Approach. Too closely handicapped? All of them will do better shortly. My fourth rated, Inquisitress, finished third, so there is good reason to say that. No money for Reddy To Star or Sophie's Beau today, and neither finished in the frame in the 4.00 Beverley. Very annoying, but keep an eye on them next time. My third arted, Sunrise Lyric finished third, but unfortunately I didn't back it, preferring Battle Study, which finished fourth! Luv U Noo (-205) 16/1 winner! My top-rated for the 4.10 Brighton, Rosy Dawn, (13/2) made a bold show of front-running, eventually being beaten by the progressive Celestial Girl. Pity I didn't do the forecast! My second choice, Farncombe, ran terribly, as did Aah Haa. Typical! Tournedos decided to throw in a duff run today, which did not totally surprise me, but they don't like short-priced favourites! Will win again when wanted. I was also interested in Welcome Approach and Namir, the latter finishing second at 15/2. I wonder whether the others knew that Tournedos would not be winning, otherwise how could they back their horse? Welcome Approach is still ready for a win, and keep an eye on Fyodorovitch. My selection, Le Corvee won the 4.40 Brighton at 7/2, but my forecast with Filun was ruined when Filun got pipped for second. Only an apprentice, but should get warned for that! Turners Touch was running away on the outside, but no money for it today. Watch for it shortly. Amazing! My first choice, Azygous, unseated the rider at the start! With a first place left from last season, I wasn't totally surprised, strangely enough! They often find something like that to do! Was best in, so will be thereabouts soon. Also keep an eye on Captain Imperial, but there will probably be money for it. Divine Spirit, my second choice also typically finished fourth, and can win soon. Fortunately I also backed system bet Shakespeares Son, finishing third at 9/1 (I got 14/1). One of my selections for the 5.30 Beverley, Royal Composer, finished second at 14/1 and would probably have won if not being carried across the track by Country Road, which also intefered with another choice, Hurricane Thomas. Amazing what havoc one horse can cause! I didn't like the form figures of Emperor's Well, but it will run much better soon.

I didn't see the evening racing, but I note two of my old favourites, Desperate Dan won at 6/1 and Caribbean Coral, which I tipped strongly last time (see 5th July), came second at 14/1! I also said Yorgunnabelucky would probably win next time out (see 17th June)! It actually had another run in between.

12th July: Don't know what was the matter with Jibaal (2.00 Ayr), but no doubt will do better next time as a system bet. Another Johnston enigma, as highlighted by me recently! Fahey wins again! The name Calypso Magic (33/1 second) caught my eye, but unfortunately I didn't back it! I didn't want to back Admirable Duchess for the forecast in the 2.20 Ffos Las, so I backed Osborne's, but I didn't expect it to finish last! First and third in the 2.20 Ayr with The Bear (see my comment 10th July) (6/1) and Mandarin Spirit (13/2)! System bet Woodford Belle 9/1 winner of the 2.50 Ffos Las! Pity about the favourite, I wanted it for the forecast! Ursula (system type form) 8/1 winner of the 3.00 Ayr, with one of my selections, system bet Requisite 11/2 third. No money for Rothesay Dancer today, although going well behind the leaders, and can win soon, along with long-time leader Feeling Foxy. You usually have to see money from the Given yard, although it had a 66/1 third in the first race! Symmetrical form for Shabak Hom 4/1 winner in the 3.20 Ffos Las, with one of my picks, Aragall, 11/4 second. Don't know what happened to James Pollard, but will be a system bet next time. That's the problem with -23 figures, you don't know if it's this time or next time. Why did Dunlop send Sounds Of Thunder over there when it could have run closer to home? Captain Imperial (3.30 Ayr) is due a good run now, they have messed around long enough! My other selection, Carlitos Spirit, 4/1 third (bigger prices available earlier). I got two of the first three with Hosanna, but not the winer, Frontline Girl (-040). Must be better than it showed last season! I had The Mighty Atom in the 3.40 Dundalk, but wanted the slow-starting Confidence for the forecast. Watch that one, because it made good ground towards the end. A pity, because I had first and second on my list! Lady Hestia ran very poorly receiving a lot of weight in the 3.50 Ffos Las, and that could not have been a true running! Master Of Dance, was hacking behind the leaders in the 4.00 Ayr, but the jockey somehow got boxed in and got no run, finishing fourth. Considering it was best in and 20/1 in the betting, one has to assume that it could have done much better! My selection for the 4.10 Dundalk, Scopey, actually took the lead a furlong out, then gradually dropped back to come fifth! Must have been a trial run, because it was thrown in! Keep an eye on it! Equally well in was Five Two, which I had a feeling was not going to show (asymmetrical), and that is another to note next time. My St Clair (sys+1) 5/1 winner, and the second and third had as uninspiring form as my selection! I thought Aspectus was a certainty in the 4.20 Ffos Las, but four horse races are a minefield. The 7lb claim probably made the difference, but quite often it is a negative sign! One of my selections, Talk Of Saafend 11/1 second in the 4.30 Ayr, with system bet Highkingofireland third! Holiday Cocktail, fourth, is due a good run now. This Marjury Dawe must be well handicapped. Irish Raider Deal Clincher was obviously not wanted today, but wonder why it came over, as it was best in? Scottish Boogie was best in for the 4.50 Ffos Las, and won the race at 11/4, but I was expecting a better run from Diamondgeezer Luke. that will probably be next time now. Just shows you can never tell by the figures, because Scottish Boogie ended in -06! Electric City was thrown in for the 5.00 Ayr, and I was pleased to see it come second for the each-way money. Would have preferred it to win, but that is not the way with many stables. Can win soon now. I get fed up with well-handicapped horses getting into contention and then dropping out! That applied to High Treason (system next time) and Matters At Hand in the 5.10 Dundalk. Best in of the lot, Akram, never showed at all, skulking at the back. Made it look like a right hack! Unfortunately with that owner you probably need to see a lot more money! Hawk Flight (-040) 33/1 second. Vital Plot looked like reeling back the leader in the 5.40 Dundalk, but after missing the break, then fell in a hole to finish sixth. I wish we could get a proper run out of the horses we back! I can't believe the poor runs from some animals in the 6.10 Windsor! I expected better runs from The Tatling, Elhamri (lost an iron) and Harry Up, but they were all poor and reflected the lack of money! All three must do better soon. I backed outsiders there, but an even bigger outsider won in Caledonia Princess 33/1! If you backed that it would probably finish stone last! (6.15 p.m.) I have backed Palindromic (-40) in the 6.20 Wolverhampton. If the trainer has a sense of humour, it will probably finish fourth! Well, it did even worse than that, despite being in second place around the final bend. The only good thing is it will be a system bet next time but will probably finish fourth then! How I hate these impossible to pick maiden races. The trainers are the only ones who know, and they don't usually tell the public! What chance have we mere mortals got? Dabeina was best in for the 6.30 Killarney, but the price indicated that it would not win, and this preoved correct. Also disappointed with Majestic Pearl, which did not run on at the end. Badger Or Bust finished third with a string of duck's eggs, but is now thrown in soon. Roman Dancer (-600) 28/1 winner of the 6.40 Windsor. How the hell can you pick that? I thought Snowberry Hill was going to take the 6.50 Wolverhampton, but it took a lead too early and finished fourth! If it wanted to win, it should have been held up and come later! Enfuriating! How come there were no form figures for the winner Moscow Oznick (20/1)? And then Dee Cee Elle missed the break, which destroyed its chances! Is there no end to this rubbish? Well, I finally got a better result with Larkrise Star 8/1 winner and Rockweiler (sys+1) 16/1 second in the 7.10 Windsor, including the forecast! And if they reverse the placings, it will be even better! But they did not reverse it for some reason, despite the winner hanging all over the second in the last few yards ! Then I got Avonvalley 5/1 and I thought Itsthursdayalready had got third, but it was just pipped into fourth. System bet Crowning Moment winner of the 7.30 Killarney. Alroy is due very soon. I thought I was going to get the forecast with two of my three choices in the 7.50 Wolverhampton - Gamesters Lady (second), system bets Annambo and Great Bounder, but they all finished in a heap, with the latter finishing third! You can never tell at this game until the final strides! Look out for Annambo soon. Hidden Gem (fourth in the 8.10 Windsor) was best in, and will be worth a bet soon. Dabbers Ridge, tipped by me last time when a non-runner, was thrown in for the 8.20 Wolverhampton and won at 9/1 (couldn't believe the price!) but I wanted the forecast with Goodbye Cash (third)! Don't know where this Cottonfields came from, no right to be there on what it had shown so far! Just a bit far for Goodbye Cash perhaps (7f to 1m best trip)? Cecil's On Her Way 9/1 winner of the 8.40 Windsor and I didn't back it! If I Were A Boy should be worth backing next time. Bond City was by far best in for the 8.50 Wolverhampton, but only wins once in a blue moon. Will the moon be blue next time? I wonder... Spectait will also do better soon. I backed The Grey Express 8/1 winner in the 9.00 Dundalk, but could have had a good forecast with All For Free 10/1 instead of the favourite! Lastkingofscotland was best in for the 9.20 Wolverhampton, but threw away the race by drifting across the course and finished third at 13/2. Will probably win next time. Northern Bolt (well there until the closing stages) was next best in, and will be worth a bet soon. And keep an eye on Rubenstar shortly. Well, quite a good evening as usual, and a good start in the afternoon, which did not continue quite so well!

11th July: System and symmetrical bet Baaher 100/30 winner of the 2.10 Perth! Off to a good start! It looked as if My Condor and Lukie Victor, both going better than the others, were going to fight out the finish in the 2.20 Perth, but everything changed suddenly, and both finished out of the places. Don't know why they do that! Lukie Victor, thrown in, made a bad mistake at a vital time. Both are worth backing again, however. Amazing! My two selections for the 2.30 Stratford, Take A Mile and Cherokee Star, both slipped up at the same point on different circuits! Is it going to be one of those days? Don't know why British horse Roker Park went over to Ireland and was then useless! There must be a plot afoot, so keep an eye on it! Should have noticed the form figures of Bean Uasal! Chevy To The Levy was best in at the weights, but despite going better than the favourite, contrived to get beaten on the run-in! I backed system bet Merdaam in the 2.55 Sligo, but it had already gone out of the race by the time they showed the race! What is going on? Tout Regulier, one of my selections, won the 3.00 Stratford at 3/1, and Stumped made late ground but finished out of the places. My third choice, Celticello, finished third. Stumped will probably win again soon, but no money today. Dasher Reilly was thrown in for the 3.20 Southwell, but was out of the handicap and typically finished last. Must win when in the handicap and wanted! System bet Hermoso 4/1 winner of the 3.40 Perth. I tipped best in Follow On, which made late ground , then failed to run on, and Catch The Perk, which, with -06 figures, I should have known would not win, despite the trainer's comments! Strobe, which led most of the way, can also win again soon. System bet Golden Gem third in the 3.50 Southwell.What on earth happened to Treeko? Jockey started rowing away, and I thought "That's the end of that one," and dropped out as if shot! Don't you just hate it when you don't get a run for your money on a horse with a good chance? Will do better. How did I almost know that Stan would pull up in the 3.30 Stratford? Assymetrical form, and no money for it, but it was best in and will probably win next time! Grrr... Storm Of Applause made a bad mistake, but still ran on well towards the end. Well, at least I got Run To Space 11/2 second in the 4.10 Perth! System bet To Arms 11/4 winner of the 4.20 Stratford. I think I'll stick to giving system bets! Donovan was best in, but at 50/1 after a long absence, was clearly not fancied. Orion Express made good ground in mid-race before dropping out, and should be noted next time (early price recommended, as it is usually gambled). My selection for the 4.40 Perth, Front Rank, 14/1 second. I don't know where the favourite came from, but somebody knew about it! Knight Valliant and Guerilla will do better shortly. They don't seem to make an effort if there is a chance of getting beaten! I selected Sahara Prince and Barton Sun for the 4.30 Stratford, and almost got a forecast, as Sahara Prince was in front at the last, but finished fourth! System bet Makena 10/1 winner of the 4.50 Southwell. Should have known that Treasury Counsel (second) would not win, despite the flood of money, as it had a string of poor results! Vicentio is due a good run very soon. Barton Sun won at 7/1 (from 12/1). Wonder if they had a chat with Sahara Prince's connections before the race? Sahara Prince seemed to hang fire after the last, but can win very soon. It has had numerous placings now, just wondering if it lacks a turn of foot? In that case it should race on ahead of the field. I expected Crawford to have a 1-2 in the 5.10 Perth, but it didn't work out that way, unfortunately! Amazingly, I had almost every winner on my list today, but the ones I gave out were in the minority! Kristallo (-3040) 16/1 winner of the 5.00 Stratford, from system bet Edgefour 28/1 with course and distance winner Shropshirelass (-35) 14/1 third. I must admit I had a small bet on Kristallo, but didn't give it as a selection, and I also had a little each-way on Edgefour. But no forecast! What a prat! Blue Express finished fifth, not quite close enough, and Sadlers Star decided not to compete today! I think that Come Out Firing, which front-ran today, will do better shortly. System bet Chinook Run 20/1 third in the 5.55 Sligo. Strikes me after a few days betting that the system bets often do better than the form selections. Hmm... worth bearing in mind!

10th July: I see that Vhujon (3.10 Nott) (see 3rd July) has suddenly become favourite today, after being a big outsider for weeks! Naughty, naughty! Will it win? Probably, now that the money is down, but watch out for King Of Swords too. I don't know how these things work, but I heard a rumour that trainers sometimes tell the bookies they have a winner lined up, then get their share of the big odds before the betting tissue is established. This may be totally false, but it makes sense.
I backed Side Glance and Haatheq in a reverse forecast for the 1.45 Ascot. The latter was too far back, and ran on with a real rattle for third and would have got second in another stride! None of my top-rated figured in the 2.00 York, perhaps they were too closely handicapped? Red Cape, Cornus and River Falcon all failed to sparkle, and the amazing Hotham won at 20/1. That horse always seems to win when wanted off higher and higher weights! Probably a group horse in disguise! I managed to get a win with Cecil's Nordic Spruce 7/2 in the 2.05 Nottingham! Ashram should have been second in the 2.15 Chester, but finished only fourth. Should have done two system bets with Lord Shanakill and Dunelight for the forecast! Whoateallthepius appeared not to want to finish in the frame in the 2.20 Ascot, running on late for fourth and not being pushed. Can win again soon, unless it is going to get progressively worse for the future. I also backed Silly Billy (18/1 third). Mujaadel was the complete outsider in the 2.30 York, but was thereabouts for a long way, as was the front-running Billy Dane, which can win soon. My other choice, Charlie Cool, finished third at 10/1. System bet Magaling finished second at 18/1! My selection Barastar ran on for fourth in the 2.35 Nottingham, but no return as usual! System bet Batgirl 9/2 winner. The way the thrown in Carcinetto was ridden in the 2.45 Chester, I knew it would not win from a long way out! Of my other two, Dragon Slayer missed the break and never got into it and Bold Cross ran on well late. Frustrating! I had Premio Loco which I thought was a certainty (4/1 winner) and Ouqba for the forecast in the 2.50 Ascot, but blow me if Ouqba didn't finish fourth! I also had Vertigineux (15/2 second) on my list. I had system bet Wigmore Hall and Demolition as my choices for the 3.05 York. Well, I thought I had given the forecast for the 3.10 Nottingham with Vhujon and King Of Swords, but apparently Baby Queen just nicked second from King Of Swords, which suffered a couple of bits of interference which probably made the difference! At least Vhujon 7/4 was a winner! King Of Swords must win soon. System bet Blue Jack 10/1 winner of the 3.20 Chester! Reverence should have done better, but was a relative outsider. My selections for the 3.30 York, Snoqualmie Boy (thrown in) and Jo'burg, both figured, with Snoqualmie Boy disputing until the final stages and Jo'burg finishing second at 7/1. Don't know where this Greylami (sys+1) came from, but it won easily! The fact that Jo'burg had a claimer on it may be significant as regards not winning. Mojave Moon was clear best in at the weights in the 3.40 York, and looked capable of winning a few furlongs out. However, it pulled hard early and later was allowed to drift back, and was obviously not wanted today. The same can be said of the run of Sabotage, which was also disappointing. Well, I didn't see the race, but I managed to back best-in Waveband, 12/1 winner of the 4.05 York. Pity I didn't put it on my list of selections, but I didn't realise it would be such a big price! Sakhee's Pearl and Perfect Friend will do better soon. Thrown in Inchnadamph has to wait one more race before winning, despite making good ground around the final bend. Must win next time as a system bet! I don't like these -64 figures unless symmetrical! Well in Command Marshall finished like a shot for third, but - seven horse race again! That can win a similar race now that it has got its regulation place. I also backed best in Marafong in the 4.20 Nottingham, finishing fast in third at 9/1. Why don't they ever win? The winner Frank Street was equally weighted without the claimer. System bet and my selection, Rowe Park, 10/1 winner of the 4.40 Ascot! I feel better already! With the constant switching between channels, I didn't realise the 4.30 Chester had been run, but I had written down the first two, Master Macho 5/1 and Earl Wild 3/1 in the correct order! Curses! Another winner with Eastern Gift 6/1 in the 4.55 Nottingham! My other selection, Hilbre Court was best in, but no money for it! I think Classic Descent will probably win next time. Montego Breeze (sys+2) 66/1 second! System bet Talayeb 9/2 third. And yet another winner with Brandywell Boy 7/1 in the 5.15 Ascot! My other selection, Berbice was just pipped for third place, and will probably win back over six furlongs. Four winners today, which is rather better! I had three for the 5.05 Chester, with Green Park just getting pipped, and Viking Spirit in third. I don't know what is up with Wyatt Earp, but it will win again when there is money for it. Orpen Wide was thrown in for the 5.30 Nottingham, but obviously did not want to win a four horse race! Kept hanging around the bends and out into the centre of the track! I felt like screaming at horse and jockey! Must win a bigger race soon! System bet Caracal should have done better in the 5.40 Chester. Of course, its form wasn't symmetrical. Must remember that in future (I keep writing it). I don't know how to take Johnston's horses, as they either win or drop right out! Nubar Boy would probably have won if it hadn't missed the break! The winner, Mejd's form was very symmetrical, as was the second, Red Gulch (-35). Santiago Atitlan was thrown in for the 6.00 Hamilton, but at 33/1 I didn't expect it to win. Since it had a series of duck's eggs, I could almost predict that it would come third or fourth. Of course, it finished third at 33/1 in a very precisely executed manoeuvre! These horses that are well handicapped are often chosen a small race to run in to get a third place so that they can justify a win after that. It's annoying when you don't get the each-way money, but that's why they are big prices in the first place! Fortunately I also backed Angaric 6/1 winner! I'm just ticking over with winners interspersed with losers. Kings Head (10/1 third) was thrown in for the 6.30 Hamilton, but the favourite's connections must have known that it wouldn't threaten. Must win soon, along with Shy Glance. Orpen Bid (system type form) 100/1 second! Sand Tiger was clearly disappointing off its current mark. What seemed obvious in the 6.45 Salisbury was that Timeteam, which had won its previous two races and was still well in, would not be winning at 10/1. There was no reason for it to be that price. And, lo and behold, it missed the break! They must know that is going to happen, there is no other logical explanation! These things happen far too often, and the trainer's son, who knows the horse, was on board. Please explain! I hate this type of thing, it's so apparent! Why should I waste my money when the outcome is probably known before the race? This is the same horse I questioned previously before its first win. Whatever, it is very irregular and not nice to see. The Bear, by far best in (40lb in hand) for the 7.00 Hamilton, blazed off in front, then apparently tied up to finish fourth, being beaten for third by its stablemate. Oh yeah? Should have won easily! What are they up to? Haajes, which I tipped last time, won this time at 3/1. They never run two races alike! Must win when wanted, but I wish it was tonight! This game is a never ending enigma, and all depends on the plans on the day. I would love to know what goes on behind the scenes, but I don't suppose they will tell me! Top Bid and Methaaly have apparently gone back into their shells again. Another one for Hannon with what appeared to be the second string, Measuring Time in the 7.20 Salisbury. But that has been known to happen before! Keep an eye on Firetrap, which was apparently going well in the 7.35 Hamilton, then the jockey decided to pull it when he or was it she? had seen enough. Bronze Beau was clear best in, and I backed it, but that one should have been second. Must be waiting for another race soon. The wrirting was on the wall for Professor John in the 7.50 Salisbury as soon as the jockey started jerking at the reins. Goodbye! But it is very well in on juvenile form, and is being held up for a tilt in the future. The same applies to a lesser extent to Blakey's Boy, which was being restrained in a strange way by the jockey. Keep an eye on both, especially the former. I thought Tartufo Dolce was going to win the 8.05 Hamilton, leading for a long way, but no! Packed up again! If only they would carry on running! Probably take another race or two now before winning. Is the fact that Amy Ryan was wearing her tights over her boots significant, as I should think they would get in the way? Coolree Star was another that I thought was coming through to do better. System bet, but with a first place from last season, Besty was the winner. Yet another cruelly worked travesty! Zaif, thrown in for the 8.25 Salisbury, starting at 16/1 (suspicious), made good ground on the outside, then hung fire behind the winner and got pipped into third! Yes, that's right, a seven horse race! Even these claiming jockeys can make it look convincing. How many more times? It's like a bad dream! Must win next time! And there are the pundits saying he was flattered. How ridiculous. If this happens any more I shall scream (but from recent experience, I know that it will!). Well, for some reason they paid out on third place, so I suppose I had better not complain too much! Make a note of Zaif, but it will probably be backed off the boards next time. And one final grouse: Bold Marc, second last time, did not front-run tonight and finished fifth, while Stellite and Bed Fellow (sys+1) (28/1 second), which I did back last time, finished first and second. They have got you every way! Bold Marc must win now. Why not tonight, when I backed it?

9th July: Musaafer appeared to be hacking in the 1.30 Newmarket, but after threatening briefly, was allowed to come home in its own time. It will be a system bet next time, and I believe that it is much better than it showed today. I noticed that Sea Lord (13/2 winner) had run in Ireland, which appears significant now. I had Hannon's First Cat (33/1 second) on my list, but stupidly did not back it! Johnston's Karaka Jack should also do better soon. Amy Ryan has now won the first race, so this has already had a knock-on effect on the price of my fancy Advanced for the 2.35. I backed Klammer each-way in the 2.00 Newmarket and it ran a good race, eventually finishing third, but in a six horse race, of course. Should have known better than to back against Hannon, who seems to have a horse for every occasion! I backed Lady Gar Gar each-way in the 2.10 York, and it ran on nicely for third without threatening the front pair. Hanagan again with the winner Polar Kite! Of my selections for the 2.35 Newmarket, advanced was there in front for much oif the way before fading, but Gallacher never showed at all . System bets Light From Mars finished 14/1 third and Marajaa dead-heat fourth at 22/1. I almost backed both of them! Jaconet (106 rated on the all weather) was well there in the 2.45 York, dropped back, then ran on again late. They are probably getting rid of a couple of first places before competing again. Damn! I wrote down Rose Blossom (8/1 winner) and Gilt Edge Girl (13/2 third) on my list! Guess what! Hanagan again! Rose Blossom had been strongly touted as one of Fahey's top horses on its first few runs. Urban Poet was very well in for the 3.00 York, but after hacking behind the leader, dropped out very quickly. Will probably come again next time. I also backed system bet Bow To No One 12/1 and Ocean's Minstrel, which finished second and fourth. The latter can win very soon. Hannon again with Martyr! Top-rated Fleeting Spirit did not figure in the 4.10 Newmarket, but will do better in a similar race soon. My suggestion, Showcasing, was badly hampered a couple of times early and never got into the race. One which was clearly not expected today was Balthazaar's Gift, and that one will also do better. My two top-rated selections for the 3.20 York, Fishforcompliments and Zomerlust, finished second 6/1 and fourth 12/1, so at least it was a return, but the winner, Avenuesandalleyways, was in a different county, so much be considered a 100 rated horse if the others ran to their form! Dancing Mate and Northern Fling should run better next time. System bet Straight Line 6/1 second in the 3.35 Ascot. Catfish 40/1 winner of the 3.45 Newmarket for Gay Kelleway! I can't remeber her having a juvenile winner, especially at that sort of price! Yet another disappointing performance in the 4.10 Ascot! Victorian Bounty led for three-quarters of the way before fading tamely, and the same applied to Drawnfromthepast and Desert Icon. What can you do with them, eh? They are obviously much better than that, but the form figures seem to be their prime concern unless they are winning! Gramercy (-306) second. My two picks, Amwell Pinot (second) and Witzend, both ran creditably in the 4.20 Newmarket. I think Witzend was going better than its eventual finishing position, and will be worth a bet shortly, as it was a narrow second to a Fahey hotpot previously. The problem with most of these is that there seems to be an engrained habit for a horse not to run well after a placed effort. Well, either Wise Dennis and Baylini have regressed considerably, or we had another of those stitched up races in the 4.45 Ascot. Both of these were far better than the opposition at the weights, but were clearly not there to compete today! I am always suspicious when there is no money for thrown-in horses, and unfortunately I was right again! That is no consolation when you are throwing away money on them! I am not only fed up, I am bewildered! One of my selections for the 4.55 Newmarket, Mull Of Dubai, went wrong when disputing the lead. Not sure if it broke a leg (hope not!). Bon Spiel was best in, but clearly not wanted today (66/1). I thought another, Strategic Mount, had got third, but no! Just pipped by Ouster. You can't win whatever you do! Money for Bravely today in the 5.05 York, but clearly not stable money. Second best Highland Warrior just hacked behind the leaders without threatening in fourth. System bet Brierty 9/2 winner with system bet Liberty Ship third. All that means is that the top two did not try! Another pathetic afternoon of top meetings! They are a waste of time as far as I am concerned, I far prefer smaller meetings where the results are usually better. Well, might has well have another clean sweep of losers! This is laughable! Sgt Schultz was thrown in for the 5.20 Ascot, and I thought it would at least make an effort, but, guess what! It finished last! From the sublime to the ridiculous! If I knew it was going to do that, I would have backed something else, like Peintre D'Argent. Give up, man! You are a waste of space! One more load of useless research out of the window! I reckon half the time they are just taking turns at winning, and the form doesn't mean a jot! A few comments on tonight's racing: King's Caprice, Rainbow Mirage (third) and Maze were best in for the 7.25 Newbury, but as usual at 50/1 the chances of King's Caprice were already signposted! But it has won at 33/1 recently, so had to be backed. First Post (-204U) 12/1 winner. I suppose it's almost a system bet, certainly the type of figures that I follow! Two of my recent strong tips, Count Ceprano 14/1 (see 23rd June) and Diamond Johnny G 10/1 (see 25th June) were two winners which I did not back because I had a rest after this afternoon! System bet Olynard 9/2 winner of the 7.35 Chepstow. Captain Dimitrios (-35) 7/1 winner of the 7.55 Newbury. Woodcote Place is due a win soon after finishing second in the 8.05 Chepstow, but another winner for Johnston with Sailorman! Red Twist, hampered when making its effort in the 8.30 Newbury, and Bramalea, which came up hacking on the outside, can both do better shortly. System bet Sooraah 5/2 winner of the 8.40 Chepstow from my top-rated My Sister, giving me a nice forecast return! I had a feeling about Bidable in the 9.10 Chepstow, but didn't back it. Portrush Storm is very well in when wanted, but not sure it will be next time. Perfect system bet Oriental Cavalier (-230) 11/2 winner of the 9.20 Chester. Damn! Only saw it during the race! And so, backing Maslak to win (third) and Valdan (fourth) each-way, I got no return, but both the last named must win very soon. It's all done with form figures with this lot! When you get the right form figures, you take your turn! I am gradually making sense of all this, and it has very little to do with ratings!

8th July: My first selection, Pytheas (8/1), was absolutely cantering behind Rolling Hills in the 2.10 Folkestone and looked certain to go past it, but for some reason got pipped into third when Daboos came by! There was a girl jockey on it, which maybe explains it. Must win soon. Jewellery 33/1 pipped me for the forecast in the 2.20 Warwick. How do these horses suddenly improve from two duff runs? Top-weight Circumvent (235) 40/1 winner of the 2.35 Newmarket. Should have known, as it had been running in Group races lately! I managed to pick Breakheart, which ran well in second at 20/1, but my main selection Aquarian Spirit did not figure. Arlequin in third must be an improving horse, having got up a lot since its last win. Should have done the straight forecast in the 2.45 Folkestone, instead of backing Channon's to win, as the forecast probably paid better (it was just less actually). Carcinetto was thrown in for the 2.55 Warwick, and I don't know why it did not win today (third last time out, with no obvious impediments). Possibly it had been dropped a lot in the weights, and did not want to take advantage too quickly! Must be waiting to be a system bet, but there was no need for that really. The first two blazed off madly, and that did not do them any good either! Strange, the three I put in the tricast finished as the last three in the race! What a stupid game! Could not pick Sans Frontieres (-664) in the 3.10 Newmarket, but I was interested in Crowded House, which has been running hugely below form and could now surprise soon. Ten Down, thrown in for the 3.20 Warwick, decided to finish last today (there was a claimer on it, however). Will it be 25/1 when it wins, I wonder? Still a system bet next time. Thoughtsofstardom (third) and Watch Chain were next best in. Best in State Fair made a brief effort a little way out, but did not go through with it. I though system bet Resuscitator, which led most, was certain to finish in the places, but was eased back into fourth. Keep your eye on that one. I didn't back Evans' Chinese Democracy this time (same stable as Carcinetto) and, of course, it won! Sod's Law! I had a feeling that Casual Glimpse would win the 3.45 Newmarket, as probably Hannon is giving Moore his best rides to close the gap on Hanagan! The class horse, Calzaghe, 4/1 won the 3.55 Folkestone. I was hoping that Free Falling would hold on to the lead, but dropped out at the end. Perhaps too far? I backed Johnston's Sky Falcon (third) in the 4.05 warwick, and also had the winner, Ocean Drift, on my list, but did not back it, unfortunately! The front-running Party Doctor may have destroyed its chances in the 4.20 Newmarket, but was best in and may win again soon. Unfortunately my second choice, Critical Moment, won, and I didn't back it separately! Cumulus Nimbus ran much better than its mark, but will it be put up a lot before it can run in a handicap? I suppose Baltimore Clipper had to be a stonking each-way bet in the 4.30 Folkestone at 6/1, and it finished second. On those terms almost better value than the favourite! Spanish Acclaim did not run as well as last time in the 4.40 Warwick, but is still well-handicapped. There was no money for Memphis Man, and despite being close up, it finished only fifth (-06 continues to be no good for backing!). Baunagain must run better soon also. This Arteus keeps winning, so must be well-handicapped. Not a very statisfactory day today so far, with nothing showing its true form, but you get days like that. Tabaret looked like getting placed in the 4.55 Newmarket, but hung fire near the end, finishing about sixth. Surely they didn't want to get rid of that third place? Is very well handicapped on old form, and appears to be improving. Best in Indian Trail has become very disappointing, and I don't know whether to recommend it again. System bet Five Star Junior finished second at 8/1. The winner, Astrophysical Jet, (-26) looks worth following, but as soon as I say that, it will probably run a stinker! Ivory Lace, thrown in for the 5.05 Folkestone, ran second for a long way, then packed up. It's just a question of patience with that horse, but I hope it doesn't get backed off the boards when it's due. I will make it my nap again for next time out, when it will be a system bet more or less! What a terrible lot of results for me this afternoon. You are powerless when that happens, because none of my horses were due today! Well, a clean sweep of non-winners today, but I did give Morgan's Choice each-way in the 5.15 Warwick (second at 25/1). Yurituni never got into the race, despite being favourite! Cactus King was clear best in for the 6.20 Epsom, but it was clear from the jockey's antics that it was going to get nowhere near the leaders tonight. I bet it will be ridden a lot better when it wins soon! System bet North Cape 15/8 winner. I would love to hear what the conversation was before the race, as it was so obvious that it was not going to win from the betting! Piermarini was very well in for the 6.35 Doncaster, and looked like taking a hand, moving up menacingly a few furlongs out. However, once there, it apparently found very little, and was content with fourth place. This Tillietudlem keeps winning, and is getting a bit annoying. I hate it when one horse upsets the competitive interest by dominating affairs. Greedy, I call it! Odds-on favourite beaten again in the 6.50 Epsom. Looked to be hacking all over the winner! But I wasn't totally surprised, because the winner was Channon's. Don't write off the third, Upark Flyer, either, which I thought looked a possible winner too! Typical! I backed system bet Popspeed in the 7.00 Naas, and it eased up and finished last! That's my day so far today. Couldn't pick my nose! Very suspicious betting for the 7.25 Epsom. I did not know what to make of it, as Profit's Reality was absolutely thrown in for the race, but of course it seemed to be known beforehand that Run For Edes would win! It is very disturbing when this sort of thing is allowed to happen, though! I bet any money that Profit's Reality will win very shortly in a bigger race! What really irks me is that you have to put your money on just in case it is a turnover! Another poor performance, this time by Seradim, which was thrown in for the 7.45 Doncaster, but left it too late! Must win soon! Fortunately I got the early 5/1 each-way. You have to temper your bets when the form is not symmetrical (i.e in this case it had had five runs in the current season), as I have said on many occasions. I think I'll give up backing, as nothing I back has any intention of winning (only joking!). Twilight Star was thrown in this time for the 7.55 Epsom, but after being up there early, dropped right out. My Gacho was another not to get into the race (normally front-runs when it wins). The only redeeming feature was that it was won by system bet King's Colour (which I did not back). The latter is another of those horses which wins sporadically, as though working its way up through the ratings. Is this an Epsom trainer benefit tonight? Sorry if I'm a bit tetchy today, but you have probably experienced days like this yourself! Hurrah! Finally got a result with the forecast with Patavium 9/2 (Hanagan yet again) and Kames Park 6/1 in the 8.15 Doncaster! The ratings worked out again in the 8.30 Epsom, with Lang Shining beating Kaleo. I had a little saver on Potentiale (third) to finish second too. Two returns in a row! What's happening? But I always come good late in the day! If I could do it earlier I'd be rich! Bahamian Jazz should have finished second in the 8.50 Doncaster, but when you give away many lengths at the start, what do you expect? Must do better when breaking properly. I think they should put a stop to this type of thing, because they don't miss the break when they are wanted, do they? I really messed up my bet in the 9.00 Epsom, because I backed best in Hairspray 14/1 and Another Try 15/2 separately, then I failed to put on the correct reverse forecast! I'm tearing my hair out because it's an elementary mistake which I make too often. Grrr.... And also I would have had the tricast if they'd allow me to do one! Don't know why they have tricasts in some races with less than 8 runners and not in others? Sands Crooner (see 15th June) and Frognal, (see 3rd July) both tipped by me recently, finished first and second in the 9.20 Doncaster, but again I was greedy and backed bigger prices in the forecast! I don't know what has happened to Guest Connections, but no doubt there will be money for it when it is due! Well, I finished up by making back much of my loss this evening, but would have been back in profit if I had done a correct reverse forecast in the 9.00 Epsom. I'm fuming! Let's get some better afternoon results tomorrow!

7th July: Don't Tell Mary was best in for the 1.30 Newmarket, with Seeking Dubai second best. The latter made ground in mid-race, then appeared to be hampered and snatched up. Both are better than they showed today, but will probably get rid of their remaining first place before competing. You can never tell with these! Sweet Clementine finished like a train in fourth, and should be borne in mind for the future. If they can run like that, why don't they start earlier? Charlton's Folly Bridge (symmetrical form) 17/2 winner. Bottom weight from a top stable, Alice Alleyn, finished third with 3lb overweight. One of my top-rated, Take Ten was in the lead in the final furlong, eventually finishing fourth at 22/1. Mister Hughie and Excellent Guest are worth watching soon. Muse To Use (2.15 Catterick) is running well below form, and it can't be long before it runs a better race. Was the 1lb overweight today a signal? Whatever, it should have done better amongst this lot! I wanted Ruby Alexander and Press Release in the 2.25 Lingfield, but it looked as if the race had already been decided, with those two running on for second and third without really threatening the winner! I thought that Radharcnafarraige (if I can spell it) was poorly ridden, and not to best advantage in the 2.35 Newmarket, and can do better than that. I wrote down the first three in the 2.50 Catterick, with Just The Tonic 4/1 mowing down Skyfire 7/1 and Merchant Of Medici in the final strides. Pity, I could have had the forecast, but only included Merchant Of Medici! Newcomer Cochabamba off a low weight 12/1 winner of the 3.00 Lingfield. Problem is it's just a guessing game with these horses, although Teal does have some good runners. I was hoping for a better run from Catalyze, which seemed to have kept a bit for itself. Damn! I backed Music Show (13/2 winner, 3.10 Newmarket) last time, and just as it looked that my bet Spacious was going to hold on, it came and pipped it! There's always one, isn't there? Hughes again! How can Music Show win a Group 1 when it got beaten in a Group 2 last time? Gile Na Greine was well in, but obviously not expected today at the price. Best in Bergonzi winner of the 3.20 Catterick. I wasn't sure if it was trying on its form figures. System bet Lutine Bell 7/2 winner of the 3.30 Lingfield. I thought I was going to get the forecast with Yarra River, but of course that just got pipped for second! Frustrating, this game, as I was hoping the favourite would have a duff run! Pippbrook Ministar did not figure at all, but will be a system bet next time. I got Zarooni's second and third with Baranski and Bowermaster in the 3.45 Newmarket (thought they might have a 1-2), but both got beaten by Native Khan, which was unpickable beforehand, except with a pin! Best in Reach For The Sky ran better today, finishing third, but no good in a 7 horse race! Typical thing to happen with these horses. I hate it when that happens, because you get no reward for knowledge! System bet Thinking 7/1 winner, from my second rated The Hermitage, which I thought was going to hold on! And guess what! I didn't reverse the forecast! This happens time after time, and I never learn! Unfortunately they wouldn't let me do a tricast, which they do sometimes with seven runners, as I would have had it! Top-rated Domino Dancer 9/4 winner of the 4.05 Lingfield. Pity, it looked as if Golden Prospect was going to get second for a long time! Outofoil, badly in on these terms, will do better in a handicap very soon. Royal Etiquette (sys+1) 12/1 second. 104 top-rated Mata Keranjang (4.20 Newmarket) gets worse (fourth today) instead of better! It will probably win now when people have got fed up with it! I thought system bet Sing Sweetly was going to lead all the way, but got caught close home by two others, one of which was unpickable! System bet and top-rated Dhhamaan 9/1 winner of the 4.30 Catterick from system bet Call Of Duty second and system bet Needy McCredie 16/1 third! Pity I didn't pick that one for the tricast! I was surprised, but delighted by the price. Fathey did not try too hard today, but must win soon. Typical! Another runner which finished second last time (Flyinflyout) finished nowhere today in the 4.40 Lingfield! I noticed it was eased in the last two furlongs. And also typical, second rated Brave Ghurka finished fifth! What can you do with them, eh? Ridiculous! Nuit Sombre was thrown in for the 5.05 Catterick, but allowed itself to get beaten into fifth place! They don't like these short prices! I backed Ursus each-way, finishing third at 33/1, but there are so many strange results coming up, with Ellie's Image winning at 9/2. I suppose Hmagan had to be there for something! Watch out for Rainbow Bay, which will pop up, hopefully at a good price, very soon. Valmari was a non-runner in the 5.15 Lingfield, and I thought that left it open for Astral Flower, which unfortunately finished second. Valmari will probably do better in a bigger race. Another non-runner with Jake The Snake in the 5.30 Newmarket, and Huzzah, which I also fancied. There must be something in there they don't like. Is it Hurricane Hymnbook? We'll see! Well, it always amazes me what can happen in racing! Now my other choice, Hurricane Hymnbook, bursts out of the stalls and is withdrawn. What else can happen? System bet Follow the Flag finished third in the 5.30 Newmarket, and for once I backed it! I also backed Hanagan on Nezhenka, 11/4 winner of the 5.40 Catterick! Wonders will never cease!

Blast! I backed Cut The Cackle last time it ran, but thought it had no chance tonight, winning at 16/1! Lethal (thrown in) and Edes Dot Com (also very well in) (missed break) will do better soon. I thought Phai Mai Blue (also well in) had got third, but just got pipped! Enfuriating! All weather racing does not always agree with me! It was noticeable that the first two home were non-claimers. Must mean something! Beaten again! I had Eastwell Smiles and Filippo Lippi in the 6.40 Worcester, but both got beaten by that man Vaughan again! Gets me really annoyed! And what was equally annoying was that I backed Smiling Applause each-way at 66/1 and it finished fourth! They've got you by the short and curlies! Scalini's let me down badly in the 7.10 Worcester, best in but finishing only fifth. Why do they persistently do that? I also had the third, fourth and sixth, which were my next best in! Sam Cruise (-05P) 16/1 winner! I think all of these horses deliberately finish just outside of the places, just to needle people like me! Grrr... Thrown in Lastkingofscotland ran on for fourth in the 7.20 Kempton! What are they doing? Another example of what I was just saying! Will it win next time? Probably not, because now it has a first place at the front! And now we have a 50/1 winner in Crown (sys+1)! If you backed that, it would probably come nowhere! I almost feel like giving up in disgust! The two I picked out as my best bets in the 7.40 Worcester, Highland River and Mulaazem, both dropped right out at the back! There must be a reason for that, as both were very well in. It is mind-numbing and I resent having my money taken from me under false pretences! Red Lancer had not run for a long time in the 7.50 Kempton, but is thrown in when fit and wanted. Ran well for a long way, and it could be soon. Pocketwood should also do better soon. Three Ships was best in for the 8.10 Worcester, but managed to finish only third again. Don't know why they keep doing that, but it niggles me! They would probably say I should be glad it got placed at all! Keep an eye on Ton-Chee, which had a rare bad run tonight. Can't work out these races at all! Eseej ran well in front in the 8.20 Kempton, then driopped out! Must do better soon, but it was a -06 tonight. Hurrah! Got a winner with Novikov 5/1 in the 8.40 Worcester! I expected Pagan Sword to fill second place, but it was disappointing! System bet West Emirates 7/1 third in the 8.50 Kempton. Thought it was going to lead all the way! Two system bets first and second in the 8.10 Worcester! Osmosia 10/1 beat Bachley Gale 9/1 (dead-heat second) and I got the forecast! Unfortunately the dead-heat halved my return! A poor finish for me in the 9.20 Kempton. Grey Boy, Ermine Grey and Flighty Fellow were all better than they showed tonight. The latter will probably take another race now before making an effort. System bet Jeremiah 8/1 second. Binnion Bay may also try again next time, and is very well in. The problem when there are lots of well-handicapped horses in a race is that they are probably afraid of each other, so don't compete at all, leaving it to the less well in. Why the latter decide to try is problematical, or perhaps they run to their best and see what happens?

6th July: I have pruned a lot of dead wood and out-of-date stuff from the bottom of this page, as it was getting very unwieldy and slow to load. Hopefully you will not need that in any case.

Top weight Athakeel (-305) 25/1 winner of the 2.15 Wolverhampton. Made it look easy from the back! Why is it that one horse always makes the others look as if they are standing still? Couldn't pick that one at the weights, but I had second, third and fourth! System bets Towy Boy and Divertimenti second and third. One of my selections, Song Of Praise, finished a fast-finishing fourth, and can win soon. Blast! I thought Orientalist was going to get second in the 2.30 Pontefract, but the outsider Witzend came and pipped it! I noticed it was travelling well at the back. Calmdownmate was thrown in for the 2.45 Wolverhampton, but I didn't like the drift in the betting! Silver Hotspur, second best in, missed the break again, so that was the end of that one! Must run better soon, but it will it be gambled off the boards? I thought third rated Ever Cheerful was going to get third, but just hung fire right on the line! Can also win soon. Top weight again Romantic Queen with second top weight The History Man third. Are they trying to tell me something? I really fancied River Ardeche (14/1) in the 3.00 Pontefract, and I think it would have won if it had not been hampered further back, as it was hacking! Epic was disappointing further back, but will do better. System bet Monkton Vale 15/8 winner. Everything was in Red Kestrel's favour in the 3.15 Wolverhampton, top-rated, system bet and symmetrical, but it must have been tipped too heavily, because it dropped out quickly after disputing. Must win soon, hopefully next time, when it will still be a system bet. Top weight Bavarian Nordic 14/1 third, with my other selection, Kansai Spirit, fifth. Best in Leleyf, after a second place last time, did the usual, finishing about last! A familiar pattern! Must win soon. My other choice, Tillys Tale, finished third at 25/1. Unfortunately the jockey was looking around too early, which suggests that it only wanted a place, and he had to work hard after that! Hanagan again on the winner, Perfect Blossom. Top-rated Full Victory 4/1 third in the 3.45 Wolverhampton. Jockey only pushed it when it was too late! Keep an eye on Bookiebasher Babe and Angelina Ballerina very soon. One Scoop Or Two (-25) 12/1 winner. Had no chance on these terms or on all known form, so must be much better than its rating. Flores Sea should also have done much better. My two selections, Please Sing and Tropical Paradise, finished 11/1 second and 15/2 third in the 4.00 Pontefract! the winner, Off Chance 8/1, must be much better than its rating! I had Cecil's Miss Antonia 8/1 against the favourite in the 4.15 Wolverhampton, winning the race with the favourite only third! Should have known Swinbank's would run well (12/1 second)! The form was there to see! You can never tell what Dickie le Davoir is going to do, and as a system bet, I thought today was the day in the 4.30 Pontefract, but it never got in the race. I knew Cornus would run well, but Red Cape was better in, to no avail! Green Manalishi is due a good run soon! Another example of me backing Hanagan and he didn't win! I had a feeling about Fifth Dimension (10/1 winner) in the 4.45 Wolverhampton, and wish I had a bit more on it. Miss Toldyaso led for a long way, and might be better over shorter. My two selections, Crocodile Bay (see what I said 3rd July!) 13/2 and Guildenstern, 8/1 first and second in the 5.15 Wolverhampton! I worked that out correctly for once! System bet Shannon Golden 12/1 third. By Command will be worth a bet again soon. Best in Danceintothelight refused to run on in the 5.30 Pontefract, allowing itself to get pipped into third. The horse is much better than that and was going better than the second, but didn't want to come second in this race. How frustrating when you have done it with the winner in a forecast! Will probably win next time. You have been warned!

Before I went out tonight, I put on a Lucky 63, including Aldiruos (14/1 second), Takajan (9/1 second), Three Boars (14/1 second) and Westwood (12/1 winner). Those were the prices I took. For a stake of £6.30 this returned almost £30 in each-way doubles, trebles and a four-timer! Not a bad night out! And I also played some of my best snooker for a while! Thehonourablelady, which I also included, keeps disappointing, but I should think will be competitive next time, along with Coach Lane, Morestead, Glengarra, Red Wine and Act Three, which I also fancied tonight.

5th July: Never write off any Nicholls runner! His Opening Meet won the 2.15 Newton Abbot at 33/1! How often do you see a Nicholls runner win at that price? And Pipe had the third, Racingisdreaming at 40/1! two top stables with huge priced runners! You have to watch them in lower standard races as well as the higher class, as they have a horse for every occasion! I wrote down the first two for the 2.30 Bath on my list, then changed my mind and did not back the winner Stunning In Purple! Fatal! I looked sure to get the forecast with Hell's Bay and system bet Swing Bill (4/1 winner) in the 2.45 Newton Abbot, and then Hell's Bay ran out! You never know what's going to happen at this game! They would have a job to rig that happening! I could not understand why Balleyvesey was favourite when there were three horses far better in, but you know my theories about this by now! But, with the departure of Hell's Bay, I got nothing back. Curses! Apartman, second best in, was useless for no apparent reason. Must remember to put the favourite in my forecasts, even if I don't like it! I backed everything but the winner in the 3.00 Bath! Best in Spic N Span blazed off in an easy lead and looked like winning, then packed up for no apparent reason. But I have often said that -06 is not a good set of figures. Must win soon. Then second choice Matterofact went into the lead and got collared by two others! Amazing, this game and very frustrating! They must all know what is going to happen before the race, judging by their position in the betting! Makes you feel like spitting (which I don't do)! Ask Jenny was the least obvious winner for me, apart from having Hughes on its back. I note that it was six races since its last win, so the form was cleverly disguised! Mazzola is another that is due a good run. The only two with official ratings, Detroit Red and Romance Dance, filled the first two places again in the 3.15 Newton Abbot. How many times have I said that? And of course the bigger priced one won! Makes you wonder! As usual I backed Himitas each-way and it finished fourth. Amazing! When you don't back something like that, it wins! I didn't hold out nmuch hope for top-rated Warrior Nation at 80/1 in the 3.30 Bath, but it led for a very long way, which suggests it will be competitive soon. I always take note of these front-running efforts, because they suggest that testing is in progress. Next best Forty Thirty looked like winning, but also faded (the money was probably not stable money, but lots of tips for it), leaving third best Under Fire, which I also backed, to win at 8/1! Raktiman (-46) 14/1 second (often good figures to follow). Fourth and fifth in the 3.45 Newton Abbot with Sou'wester and Mr Ed! The latter ran on, but couldn't quite make it! They must know that, that's why they were big prices! Damned annoying though, to get so close! Ginolad pulled up, of course, despite being a system bet and one of the top-rated. There was money for it, probably from people like me, who know the form! It makes me smile (if I weren't losing money on it) when I see horses like Over The Creek tailing off, when I know it should certainly be in the shakeup! You don't see better acting in a theatre than you see on a racecourse! Well, I suppose the only two which had won at the distance finished first and second! Top-rated Crathorne 20/1 winner of the 4.15 Newton Abbot, with second-rated Shore Thing second! Fantastic! Problem was the exacta paid a lot more than the straight forecast! Still, I'll take it! I backed Smart Endeavour (third), Unlimited and Warning Song in the 4.30 Bath, feeling sure that one of them would win, and the latter did, despite running wide on the bend. Smart Endeavour looked like winning too at one stage. Top-rated Knightsbridge Hill was described by the commentator as 'finishing like a rocket' in the 4.45 Newton Abbot, but unfortunately out of the places! Still, that is encouraging for the future. At least I got Captain Marlon in third at 12/1! Games was also very well in, leading for a long way before falling! Damn, I had Yurituni and Mrs Mogg for the forecast in the 5.00 Bath, and both got pipped by another system bet in Panpiper (20/1)! Unusual for Gary Moore to have a 20/1 winner, but the ....er did me! Nothing Is Forever led from thne front again in the 5.15 Newton Abbot, but the plan must have been to finish fourth, because it was thrown in on old form. It will win one day, but was obviously getting a place today. The number of times you have to wait for these horses! Medicean was next best in, but finished last, but will win when not in with the aforementioned! Fortunately I had a little each-way on Dream Catcher at 33/1! I don't believe what I saw in the 5.30 bath! Both my selections, Caribbean Coral and Loyal Royal were right there with a chance and going well, then both finished back in the heap! Why don't they push on? I presume because they are told not to! Caribbean Coral (must win whenever wanted, which must be soon now)was too big a price for my liking anyway. If Caribbean Coral gets much lower in the weights, it will be able to run backwards and win (hehe). When you are watching you can't tell the difference between a horse which is being ridden properly and one that is being eased up! Damned clever this art! Next best in Talamahana finished second. Also keep an eye on Welcome Approach, which must be competitive shortly. Well, with a bit of dutching I made a profit on the afternoon, but it could have been so much better! Oh, I didn't realise that Bradley had Loyal Royal and another system bet, Emiratesdotcom in the race. That explains a lot! You have to be very crafty at this game! I am still waiting for Misaro (6.40 Windsor) to win a race, but I also backed Piazza San Pietro, getting 6/1 before the new market. I also got Market Puzzle 6/1 in the 6.50 Ripon, so a good start to the evening! Minor Transgression should be better than it showed tonight , being well clear on the ratings, but not wanted in the betting. Byronic was a nice price (6/1) in the 7.10 Windsor, and I'll take a piece of that, thank you! Peppercorn Rent was pretty hopeless in the 7.20 Ripon, but I had a little on the forecast with first and second favourites. Best in Steelcut could not get a run through in the 7.40 Windsor, eventually finishing fourth. 7lb claimer again! Must be a signal. Can win again soon. Equuleus Pictor is gradually working up to it. Mister Angry to beat Laverre in the 7.50 Ripon was a good choice. The outsider, Johnston's Abergavenny 8/1 winner of the 8.10 Windsor! You can never tell by the betting! I got system bet Lowdown in the 8.20 Ripon, but I backed Nubar Boy (system type figures) last time, but not this! Bond Fastrac is due soon now that it has got rid of that first place, and Di Stefano is now symmetrical. I backed Snow Magic each-way in the 8.40 Windsor, coming third at 28/1. The top two in the betting came first and second, as almost expected, but I was optimistic for a while near the end. Wovoka (fourth) and Classic Descent (second) were best in for the 8.50 Ripon, but you have to wait so long for them to actually win! It's like slow motion! System bet Border Owl 11/2 winner. I'd better stick to my system bets! System bet Abhar (see 10th June) 9/1 winner of the 9.10 Windsor (I got 14/1). I almost got the tricast with Fire Raiser and Edition (fourth). I thought Bursary was going to lead all the way in the 9.20 Ripon, just getting pipped on the line, not by Mureb, but by Squall (Hanagan again)! Still made an overall profit on the day, with a few good winners.

4th July: After yesterday's largely barren day, I have decided to discontinue posting selections on here for the time, as it seems to be having a detrimental effect on the running of the selections. Whether this is purely coincidence I am not sure, but most of those I post are not performing. I will continue to make my own selections and back them accordingly, but I do not want to post them on here and cost other people who back them a lot of money. They have been free, of course, and you do not have to back them. On the other hand, you must agree that I have given a lot of big-priced winners over a recent weeks. However, currently I feel that posting them in advance may be detrimental to their chances, for whatever reason. I have studied form for many years, and still feel that my selections are largely correct, but I have no control over how they run on the day. I hope to continue posting my comments after racing for the foreseeable future, if this is what you want.

System bet Diamond Geezah 7/4 winner of the 2.10 Ayr. My selection, Cotton Spirit, was withdrawn. My selection for the 2.40 Ayr, Hosanna, finished second at 33/1! I got two of the first three with Stellite also. No money for Santiago Atitlan at present, but will be thrown in when wanted. If the stable could get any winners, I would tip Defi, which has been under a cloud for a while. Capable Guest did not jump well in the 2.50 Market Rasen, but no doubt will improve with experience. The first, second and third official rated at the weights filled the first three places! I thought today was the day for Bed Fellow in the 3.10 Ayr, but, after disputing the lead, it dropped out again. Bold Policy was best in for the 3.20 Market Rasen, but finished only fifth. Should have been a certainty to finish in the places! A winner for me with Celestial Girl 10/1 in the 3.30 Brighton! I wanted Denton Ryal for the forecast, but the girl jockey was probably a pointer. Talk Of Saafend (system next time) and Jewelled Dagger were best in for the 3.40 Ayr, but we will have to wait for all three of them, although Jewelled Dagger led, apparently going well, then packed up, as they so often do! Silver Rime (-25) 11/2 winner. Top-rated Walamo 5/1 winner of the 3.50 Market Rasen, with second-rated Thelobstercatcher second! Nice one! Cordell was best in for the 4.00 Brighton, but I also fancied Inquisitress (12/1 winner). Pity Cordell packed up, but it can win soon! I got Balwearie in the 4.10 Ayr, but wanted Snowberry Hill or Shy Glance for the forecast. Both of these can win soon. Mighty Matters was second best in for the 4.20 Market Rasen, pulled up today and will do better. Viper was by far best in, but decided to come third today (and, of course, it was a seven horse race!) What a waste of money! Berbice was best in on old form for the 4.30 Brighton, but somebody knew it wasn't winning today! Six horse race again! Must win soon off this mark. Super Frank is another to keep an eye on. Reach For The Sky was best in for the 4.40 Ayr, but we will have to wait for that one! Chookie Avon and Monte Mayor One were next best, the latter winning at 14/1 with Weetentherty (sys+1) 18/1 third! Peak Seasons was best in for the 4.50 Market Rasen and finished fourth. Wee Forbees is also a certainty when wanted. Third best Nesnaas finished second. Well, Caribbean Coral did not win the 5.00 Brighton, but it can't be long now! Commandingpresence in a very close third is also due. System bet Arriva La Diva 4/1 winner of the 5.10 Ayr. Thunder Bay was by far best in, but we still have to wait for that one and Officer Mor, which is also due. Next best Foreign Rhythm finished 8/1 second, and could have done with a better jockey! I have just realised that Thunder Bay is the stablemate of Foreign Rhythm, which may explain its poor running! I fancied Harsh But Fair in the 5.20 Market Rasen, and it ran on well to win, but I wanted Swinbank's for second! Phew! I thought Fool's Wildcat (5.25 Bellewstown) was going to lead all the way, but it packed up late. I was relieved because I hadn't backed it and I was afraid I was going to miss a good winner! That one is thrown in for a race soon in Ireland, so make a note! Willie's Girl was going very well, but as soon as the jockey starting bumping up and down, I knew it had had it! Watch for that one too. Well, I've had a few winners today that I did not post, so perhaps that is a good indicator?

3rd July: Today's top-rated: Mrs Boss (unplaced) (1.55 Leics), Moorhouse Lad (unplaced) (2.00 Sand), Al Muheer (2.35 Sand), Dream In Waiting (non-runner) (3.00 Leics), Dabbers Ridge (non-runner) (3.15 Bev), Munsef (unplaced) (3.25 Hay), Rasselas (unplaced) (3.35 Leics), Flowing Cape (second 17/2) (4.10 Leics), Edge Closer (4.35 Hay), Haajes (third) (5.10 Hay), Orpen Wide (sixth) (5.20 Leics), Music Maestro (unplaced) (5.45 Hay). Posted at 10.35 a.m. Munsef (above) was well in for the 3.25 Haydock, but today was not the day. Must do better again shortly.

Not a great start, with the first two down, but I have been waiting for Mrs Boss for quite a while, and I think it must compete soon. Moorhouse Lad was also best in, so will run well in another race soon. I got the winner with Spartic 11/2 in the 2.10 Beverley, and also looked at Dark Dune, which finished second. Could have had a good forecast! And then I got Anhar in the next (10/1) in the 2.15 Haydock! A totally unpredictable 2.30 Leicester, although Silly Billy (11/1) had system type form! System bet Al Muheer (above) caused a 40/1 upset recently, but not today. I had Dunno (third) and Acrostic second. Moynahan and Charlie Cool were next best in, but did not figure today. System bet Black Spirit 33/1 winner! I had system bet Ahtoug (3/1) and El Viento (9/2) in a forecast in the 2.45 Beverley! Next I had Barshiba 7/2 in the 2.50 Haydock! Dream In Waiting (above) non-runner in the 3.00 Leicester. Best in Granny McPhee (inc claim) missed the break in the race! That really annoys me, as it was obvious it was not fancied. System bet Ethics Girl 10/1 second. Dabbers Ridge (above) another non-runner! Mawatheeq refused to race in the 3.10 Sandown, ruining my forecast bets! Best in Stonehaugh 8/1 winner of the 3.15 Beverley! Roman Glory and Violent Velocity will do better soon. Rasselas (above) was thrown in for the 3.35 Leicester, but the price must have been too short today! Quaestor was another that should have done better, but they don't seem to perform until they are wanted! I suppose Goolagong was best in on official ratings at the weights, which is all that seems to matter sometimes! I commented (see 24th June) that Virginia Hall did not perform last time, and it won the 3.40 Sandown at 11/2! Mullglen was best in with Select Committee in the 3.50 Beverley, but, in small races, ratings often mean nothing, as we have found it numerous times! Both of these will do better in bigger races. Secret Millionaire should at least have got second in the 4.00 Haydock, and third in a seven horse race is no good. Not surprising that it was a long price if that was going to happen! Flowing Cape (above) 17/2 second. Damn! I wrote down Arabian Mirage (10/1 winner) but did not back it! I backed Illustrious Blue in the 4.15 Sandown, and it almost got there at 14/1! Marsh Warbler should have done better in the 4.25 Beverley! Channon again with Mejd (8/1)! How can you pick these winners? Edge Closer (above) led for much of the way, then suddenly packed up for no apparent reason! Edge Closer was by far best in (112 at best), so make a note for next time! System bet Rileyskeepingfaith 7/1 second. The Two G's (4.45 Leicester) will be winning a race before long, because they tested it out in front today, packing up late. Also keep an eye on Baby Judge, which is also well in now. I did also back Melody In the Mist just in case. Well, I don't know about you, but I am having a 'mare' today, apart from a couple of good results! Saturday racing is not my forte, I'm afraid! As I refuse to back favourites unless they are certainties (when they usually lose!) i don't do well when they all come in. I backed system bet Magic Millie (11/8 winner) in the 5.00 Beverley. Brink and Sternian were my two best in, but not today, although the former led for a long way. What a day! Haajes (above) could finish only third in the 5.10 Haydock! Will win very soon, but it looks as though most of these races are already decided! Misaro and Memphis Man also packed up far too easily for their ability! On days like this you think what is the point of all that research when almost nothing runs to it? Orpen Wide (above) finished sixth, but after its previous run in front, it sat down the pack today. It is thown in at this sort of level, but will it be next time with these figures? Muwalla is in a similar position, well in, but with a first place at the front of its figures. Tislaam (third 14/1) was best in for the 5.35 Beverley, but probably did not want to win because of its official rating. However, I had a small bet each-way at 14/1. Must win a handicap soon now. Alis Aquilae (-50) 22/1 winner. Couldn't pick that one! Well, I might as well have a clean sweep of non-winners! Music Maestro was moving well, but packed up quickly in the 5.45 Haydock. Ninth House, thrown in (fourth) and Timber Treasure are due soon. I've been backing Johnston all day, and as soon as I don't back him, Sir Frank Woppatt wins! Think I'll retire now. Good night!

Just came back for a few comments on tonight's racing (I'm a glutton for punishment!). Frognal was gambled heavily in the 6.55 Carlisle, but it probably wasn't stable money, as they don't leave their money behind very often! Ryedane, second best in, decided to pack up, then run on late for third. Watching the race, the first two (above) went well clear and the others were apparently under pressure. Both can definitely win soon. What has happened to Vhujon? It is so well weighted now it should have carried this lot! No doubt it will do better in due course. But how much lower is it going to go? King Of Swords is another that should do better soon, along with Blessed Place (system next time). Bell's Ocean, tipped by me a couple of times, finally won at 5/2 (well backed) in the 7.55 Carlisle. I wanted it to beat Urban Clubber, but the latter was very disappointing. I could see it happening! Geneva Geyser (see its last run 22nd May) led all the way tonight at 16/1 as it had done once before last season! Jeer was my best in, but was obviously not going to get placed tonight! Wish I had the courage of my hunches! Stevie Gee was thrown in (35lb in hand on its best) for the 8.25 Carlisle, but finished only fifth. Is starting to show form and must do better soon, along with Moheebb (fourth). System bet Ithinkbest 4/1 second. I thought Step In Time might do the business in the 8.40 Nottingham, but no joy again. It's very irritating, this inability of anything that I back to make a show! Bubbelas, best in for the 8.55 Carlisle, did not figure, but should be doing better off this mark. System bets So Bazaar and High Resolution finished second and third. Crocodile Bay was the only one of my top three rated not to finish in the places in the 9.10 Nottingham! Cost me the tricast with Baltimore Jack and Eastern Gift. There's always one, isn't there? Eastern Gift and Crocodile Bay were both better in than Baltimore Jack on my ratings, but that was the one they wanted tonight. That just tells me that Crocodile Bay will probably win next time! System bet Bandanaman 12/1 second in the 9.25 Carlisle.

2nd July: Not much joy yesterday, so will give it one more go today: Angus Newz (unplaced) (2.20 Sand), Graceful Descent (fourth) (3.00 Donc), White Shift (unplaced) (3.10 War), Excusez Moi (hacking, finished fourth!) (3.35 Donc), Spanish Acclaim (won 16/1!) (3.45 War), Spiritonthemount (unplaced) (4.20 War), Poet (unplaced) (4.00 Sand), Kaolak (unplaced) (4.35 Sand), Colloquial (won 5/1) (5.05 Sand), Dispol Kylie (unplaced) (5.15 Donc), Filun (second 9/1) (5.25 War). Posted at 12.50 p.m.

Bolodenka should have beaten system bet Moody Tunes at the weights in the 2.00 Doncaster, but perhaps did not want to win it? In any case it's annoying when that sort of thing happens! The short price of Moody Tunes was suspicious, and the runner-up was probably backed in by saps like me! I have backed Bolodenka countless times, and no doubt it will win a race soon now. I backed Pirate Coast each-way in the 2.10 Warwick, winning at 6/1! I had the first three on my list. Angus Newz (above) was 33/1 in the betting, and is usually backed when running well. Could not get to the lead and never wins then. Will now be a system bet next time. Fortunately I also backed Piscean (16/1 winner) (see 3rd June) which was a kind of system bet (-450). System bet Rocket Rob 5/2 second. Keep an eye on Excellerator soon. Clear best in Magnitude decided to come fourth today in the 2.30 Doncaster, but can win another race very soon off this mark. I can never work out how they decide whether to win again or not. Must be purely arbritrary! Second best Astronomical finished second. Hanagan again with Fantino! he's becoming my second McCoy! Channon's Wotsthehurry 20/1 winner of the 2.40 Warwick! You never know with his runners! He also got second with The Thrill Is Gone 10/1 in the 2.50 Sandown! Yet another fourth place from one of my selections in Graceful Descent (above)! This is getting monotonous! Is very well handicapped and perhaps they were getting rid of the first place? White Shift (above) another poor run! Might win next time, but may now wait another race with a first place outstanding! Also Littlemisssunshine was equal best in, but made no show today (win again soon)! Probably the reason that neither tried to win! You usually need money from the Howling stable, but there are exceptions. Demoralising, an endless series of no shows, but you get that with these types of horses, and there's nothing you can do until the money comes! There was good money for Roman Eagle (4/1 winner) in the 3.25 Sandown, and I should have taken more notice, as I backed the second, Jehanbux (Hannon). Well, I don't believe it! Excusez Moi (above) broke well for once, was absolutely tanking beside the others in the 3.35 Doncaster, then finished fourth. It gets more ridiculous by the minute! I think next time it will be a certainty! Damika is also very well in when wanted again. At last, a winner! Spanish Acclaim (above) 16/1 winner of the 3.45 Warwick, with system bet Farmers Wish 5/1 second (I also had the forecast)! I thought Stotsfold had too much weight in the 4.00 Sandown, but it won! Poet (above) was well there much of the way but dropped out (suspiciously long price). I also backed Traffic Guard, for which there was money today, and it finished third at 13/2. The money for Fleeting Glance proved significant in the 4.10 Doncaster, winning at 9/2. Unusually Prescott's Fashionable Gal (second) was 12/1! Spiritonthemount (above) was best in for the 4.20 Warwick, but was not wanted today. I expected Sir Sandicliffe to be in the shakeup, and thought it was going to win near the finish! Others to note: Synonymy (soon) and War Of The Roses. Kaolak (above) tracked the leader for a long way, but usually keeps going better than it did today. In a seven horse race like this, most of them obviously were not very interested, except to get the place needed for the future! System bet and top-rated Dane Cottage winner of the 4.55 Warwick. I was interested in the Fanshawe horse, Embarkation, which finished third (and I thought could have done even better). Another winner with Colloquial (above) (5/1) in the 5.05 Sandown, up to 12/1 available earlier! System bet Milton Of Campsie 16/1 second in the 5.15 Doncaster. Dispol Kylie (above) was my best in, but did not place today. Blast! Dazzling Begum cost me a double in the 5.25 Warwick, just pipping Filun (above). That just proves to me that Dazzling Begum is a much better horse than its rating, as Filun was very well handicapped! There are certain stables that have a habit of just pipping me on unlikely winners, and Pearce is one of them! Well, that's two winners and a place today, with better prices on offer earlier. Filun was my banker, so that's why I am annoyed! Peter Tchaikovsky (6.20 Beverley) has been running well below form recently, and can probably win soon when wanted. Kheskianto (fourth) is another that must do better shortly, and Kings Sabre (fourth) was actually better in than Bajan Pride (Hanagan and Fahey again!), so probably did not want to win tonight. In my opinion, what they often do is to say that Bajan Pride is better on official ratings, so they had better not get too close off the same weight. I tend to ignore this, but I'm always learning from results, so that I can read their minds! You can't boil an egg by ratings in many of these races! Rio Sands was best in for the 6.40 Haydock, but the jockey rode it with apparently no intention of winning (reefing and pulling), and it finished fourth! If I'd known that I would have backed second rated Angelo Poliziano! I thought with a non-claiming jockey on it, it would be there! Watch for it next time! I'm always saying that, next time! What about this time for once? I knew it! As soon as I back Hanagan to win, he gets beaten on Arctic Feeling. You can't win! Tarific Laois (sys+1) was thrown in for the 7.05 Wexford, finishing third at 20/1. Fahey again with Blaze Of Thunder 8/1 in the 7.10 Haydock. Unless it's me, you can almost back them blind! System bet Blue Law 9/2 winner of the 7.20 Bellewstown, with system bet Eurosmart Lady 10/1 third. I also backed Alf Tupper, which got fourth, but... 15 horse race (unusual in Ireland). Don't Call Me (-W26) 5/1 winner of the 7.25 Beverley, with symmetrical Be A Devil 10/1 third. A Nicholls 1-2 in the 7.45 Haydock! Crafty, crafty! I almost spotted it! I can never read the thrown-in Blue Spinnaker, and I wanted it for the tricast in the 7.55 Beverley! Why does it never run as you want it to, unless it is backed off the boards? General Tufto (third) is another that keeps improving and popping up! I suppose I should have included it as a course and distance winner! System bet Carutomark 10/1 winner of the 8.05 Wexford. Dean Iarracht finally won tonight in the 8.30 Beverley. I wanted Rowan Lodge, which was better in (9/2 second). Royal Composer disappointed, but watch for it next time out. System bet Pedasus 16/1 third. Wish I'd put it in the tricast! Dimashq can also do better soon. Knew I shouldn't have ignored Snow Dancer in the 8.50 Haydcok, but as soon as you do, in they come at 40/1! I think that may be the only horse they have in that stable! Well, Tournedos (15/8) finally won tonight in the 9.00 Beverley! Was it backed (see 29th June)? You bet!

1st July: Hopefully you were on a couple of decent winners yesterday, and perhaps we can have even better luck today: Today's top-rated: Humourous (unplaced) (2.50 Perth), Commando Scott/Charles Darwin (both unplaced) (3.00 Hay), Negotiation (fourth) (3.10 Yar), Gershwinner (second 5/1) (3.20 Perth), Benandonner (nb) (second 8/1) (3.30 Hay), Black Baccara (led, unplaced) (4.10 Yar), Knight Legend (led most, fourth) (4.20 Perth), Saviour Sand (4.40 Yar), Witness Run (4.50 Perth), Hindu Kush (nap) 5.00 Hay). A small each-way on Knight Valliant (third 10/1) (4.50 Perth) is also advised (Stolen Light non-runner). Posted at 11.50 a.m.

What a great start in the 2.00 Haydock (not!) None of my top-rated (Harare, Finsbury, Prohibition) got into the places. I noticed, however, that all three had assymetrical form. All three are worth noting again. System bet Grams And Ounces 13/2 second. Wish I'd backed it! I thought Wind Shuffle (18/1 second) was sure to be in the shakeup in the 2.20 Perth, but did not put it with Riverscape (5/2 winner)! Would have been a great forecast! I had a little bet on Bill Turner's My Lord in the 2.40 and it won at 16/1! Muse To Use has been running below form and should be looked for in a handicap later. I got second, third and fourth in the 2.50 Perth, but Humourous was not amongst them! Clear best on form but out of the handicap, and that may have been the reason. Kept looking at Elliott's Long Wait, but left it out! Second best in Follow On 20/1 fourth. Charles Darwin and Commando Scott (mentioned at halfway) decided not to get involved today in the 3.00 Haydock, but both are thrown in when wanted. This King Of Eden keeps winning! Pearly Wey (missed break) is another worth noting. Negotiation (above) led for a while in the 3.10 Yarmouth, but probably finished fourth. My second best in, Rough Rock, finished second. Gershwinner (above) almost made it at 5/1 in the 3.20 Perth, but probably only wanted a place. Ash High should run better next time. Benandonner (above) was thrown in for the 3.30 Haydock, but decided to come second again today! Pity, I had a tip for Ginger Jack, but didn't do the forecast! Greek Secret was best in for the 3.40 Yarmouth, and won at 9/2, with system bet Pocket's Pick in second, but the disappointment was second rated Mansii, which finished only fourth, meaning I missed the tricast again! You can rarely get them all to perform correctly at the same time! For once Elliott's Chicago Grey did not win the 3.50 Perth, despite being clear best in. He must have other plans for that one. I thought system bet No Mean Trick was going to be in the shakeup for the 4.00 haydock, but dropped out late. Top-rated Official Style was unlucky in running, finishing second. Haggas' Green Destiny 14/1 winner! I did not expect Black Jaccara (above) to win at 80/1, but you never know, and it led for a long way before dropping out. I had the impression that it was still going well when the jockey pulled it. It is well handicapped, but whether it will now take two or three races before winning is a moot point. Bit of a repetitive commentary this! Knight Legend (above) led nearly all the way, then finished fourth, but my second rated, Native Coral, won at 16/1! I think I ought to give my top two rated in future, as one of them often wins! Top-rated Paradise Spectre was a suspiciously long price in the 4.30 Haydock, and finished nowhere! Must do better than that! System bet Munsarim 15/8 winner. The two Dunlops had first and second. Wonder if they had a forecast? A pretty disappointing set of selections today, mainly because they have not performed! Saviour Sand (above) was hacking behind the leaders on the outside, but did not go through with its effort. You can't back them under those conditions! It makes me mad sometimes! I feel as though most of my horses have not run today! The winner, Seattle Speight, had no form and a 7lb claimer on it! Witness Run (above) did not figure, but my other suggestion, Knight Valliant, finshed third at 10/1. Note Witness Run, which must try soon, hopefully next time. Well, might as well finish with a useless nap in Hindu Kush (above)! Dropped right out after disputing the lead! I was suspicious when it went right out to 10/1 in the betting! Bet it will be much shorter when it wins, which could well be next time! My second rated, Wicked Daze, finished third at 10/1. Well, sorry folks, a bad day, but they do happen! There will be better ones. I am giving you the top-rated, and if they don't win, they have not been intended to (sorry about the tortuous English). The betting in the 5.10 Yarmouth made me very suspicious, because the top-rated horses were not favourites. Top-rated Quince finished fourth, and both Iceman George (second) and Greystoke Prince were much better in than the winner! Difficult to understand unless it was a set-up result? Why does Elliott always seem to win so many races at Perth? It's getting a bit monotonous! I backed the second and third against Esperao in the 5.20 Perth, to no avail, of course! A better start to the evening with Nuit Sombre 28/1 winner (which I tipped on its last run)! I also fancied Bold Marc (second), but did not do the forecast! Ravi River has been running poorly and must do better soon. System bet Maslak 9/1 second in the 6.20 Epsom, and I got the forecast with Silent Applause (8/1 winner)! My recent tip, Sgt Schultz 3/1 winner of the 6.30 Newbury. Another winner for Hannon in the 7.05 Newbury with Admirable Spirit at 7/1! I'll have a bit of that, thank you! Top-rated Kings Sabre 9/2 made no effort to win the 7.15 Redcar, but was content to run on for second, which will do me for the forecast! Another winner for me with Something 9/2 in the 7.25 Epsom (practically tailed off at halfway)! How come I have to wait until the evening to gey a series of results, when I haven't posted anything? Annoying! Abraham Lincoln (formerly also with Nicholls) is becoming a tad frustrating! You are probably saying "Oh yeah! How come you are getting all these results now?" But it's true, some days or parts of days are often much better than others, and sometimes you can't get a winner for love nor money, and on other occasions the form works out! Inexplicable! I don't know which is worse, Elliott at Perth or Fahey anywhere! Seems to win nearly every race that Hannon is not contesting! Just pipped me this time on Wild Hysteria in the 7.45 Redcar! System bet Belle Des Airs second in the 7.55 Epsom. Others that should have done better were Buxton, Salient and My Learned Friend. I got second, third and fourth in the 8.10 Newbury, and should have known that the short-priced favourite wasn't that short for nothing. Damn, why didn't it have an off-day, as I would have had a great tricast? System bet Esuvia 11/4 winner of the 8.20 Redcar from Pepper Lane, giving me the forecast! Unfortunately I wanted Johnston's other runner, Comedy Hall for the tricast, but I suppose Fanning was on Waveband! Silly me! Durham Express should have run better. I knew that Royal Dignitary would not win the 8.30 Epsom as soon as it did not lead from the start! Once that was the case, Lang Shining was a certainty, but you don't know that until the race takes place! It was better in than Lang Shining, but perhaps that was decided beforehand? I wanted Heart Of Hearts and Baltimore Clipper in the 8.40 Newbury, as I had flagged it up as running badly last time. Unfortunately it finished third tonight. I thought tonight was the night for Smugglers Bay, but, after travelling well, fourth again! Is it the horse or the way it is ridden? Damn, I kept looking at Amir Pasha, but didn't back it, as usual! When will I learn to go on my instincts? Could not get one of the first three in the 9.00 Epsom! Pity that the betting so often reflects what the plans are, but it's annoying just the same, as it takes away any value there might be in the prices. I really fancied Bold Cross here, but as usual it finished fourth! Potentiale (missed the break, of course) and Addwaitya are better than this. Best in Meglio Ancora cantered up on the outside in the 9.10 Newbury, then stopped riding! The pundits don't seem to notice things like that. My God, it's annoying! Jusdt testing again! Must win soon on this evidence, but why do they do that? Higgys Ragazzo was another that should have run better, and it was obvious that winning was not on the agenda tonight! I thought Cygnet Committee was finally going to make a better effort in the 9.20 Redcar, but the jockey got sandwiched on the rail and there was no way back. It looked to have something left and may be worth a bet soon. Fahey and Hanagan finally lost a race!

30th June: Ah, a couple of jumps meetings today! I am u sually more at home with that (famous last words!) This afternoon's top-rated: Points Of View (unplaced) (2.10 Worcs), Marblehead (9/4 third) (2.40 Worcs), Treaty Flyer (fell in a winning lead!) (2.50 Perth), Paradise Regained (pulled up) (3.10 Worcs), Galpin Junior (unplaced) (3.30 Catt), Petite Margot (unseated rider, well he unseated himself!) (3.50 Perth), Film Festival (nap) (won 5/1) (4.00 Catt), Pepporoni Pete (unplaced) (nb) (4.10 Worcs), Stolen Light e/w/ (third 40/1) (Ice Image) (4.20 Perth), Frognal (fourth) (4.30 Catt), Alfadora (won 10/1!) (4.40 Worcs), Rifleman (won 11/4 from 5/1) (5.10 Worcs). Posted at 12.25 p.m.

Points Of View (above) never got into the race, but will have symmetrical form next time and should be worth a bet. System bet Space Telescope 8/1 winner (couldn't believe it was such a big price), with my second choice, Occasionally Yours, 6/1 second. I backed system bet Miserere in the 2.30 Catterick, but unfortunately it appeared to break a leg, poor thing! I also backed Fahey's Normandy Maid each-way, which finished third. Marblehead (above) was clear best in for the 2.40 Worcs, but as usual with McCoy on the favourite, it didn't win (5/2 third). Very annoying! Do they have a tacit agreement or something? You know it's not your day when your tip and certainty Treaty Flyer falls at the last fence when in a clear lead! What do you have to do to get a result? System bet No Poppy ran all over the place in the 3.00 Catterick, finishing fifth, and wouldn't you know it? Stablemate Hortensis got the third place! It makes you cringe! I am sure they do it deliberately! System bet My Pal Val 11/1 winner of the 3.10 Worcester! I am sure somebody is looking at my lists and making sure they (Paradise Regained) don't win! Fortunately I got the forecast with My Pal Val and Pagan Sword! I had a small each-way on Orpen Bid in the 3.20 Perth, and then what happened? It refused to race. Shall I go mad? We had a predominately Irish race in the 3.20 Perth and an Irish result, with a big outsider winning! What next? Ridiculous again! None of the top-rated figured in the places in the 3.30 Catterick, apart from The Hermitage (third). All the others flopped, and it's getting a bit tedious! Orpsie Boy and Galpin Junior were the two best in, the former running on for fifth place! When you see an unlikely favourite in Gap Princess, you start to smell a rat! But, as spectators, there is nothing we can do about it, unfortunately! Couldn't pick the winner, High Skies, in the 3.40 Worcester, but I had second, third and fourth! What happened there? Ah, I see that the 7lb claim made a difference over the second and third! Roznic should still have won, but decided to have an off day. Rapide Plaisir is thrown in shortly for a handicap. System bet Tora Petcha 8/1 third. Petite Margot (above) disputed the lead most of the way, then the jockey looked around and fell off! Incredible! Fortunately my second choice, Bill's Echo, beat Harry Flashman for the forecast! At last! My nap, Film Festival (above) 5/1 winner of the 4.00 Catterick! makes a change! Pepperoni Pete (above) was well in for the 4.10 Worcester, but McCoy had to have his winner again! He's making me a bit annoyed! I didn't give Osolomio as one of my top-rated, as I wasn't sure it was going to perform, but it finished a close second at 22/1 (sure it could have won if wanted)! Pepperoni Pete must win a race soon (perhaps wary of Osolomio today). Stolen Light (above), tipped each-way, third at 40/1! Just getting a place today before winning (thrown in). Ice Image and Storm Prospect were next best in, finishing fourth and fifth. System bet Emotive 9/2 second. I had all places apart from that wretched Nufoudh in the 4.30 Catterick! How can it win when it's got nothing in hand? Frognal (above) must have finished fourth, but can win very soon now, as it was best in today. Malcheek was also very well in, so I can't understand how Nufoudh won, unless it was a put-up job (there was a biggish bet on it)! System bet Mandalay King 8/1 second. I get increasingly perplexed by some of the results they come up with! Are they waiting for bigger races or just getting the form figures set up? Alfadora (above) 10/1 winner of the 4.40 Perth, with next best Swordsman fourth. Glad I pipped McCoy this time! And to round off with another winner in Rifleman (above) 11/4 winner. At least 5/1 was available earlier in the day. Keltic Lord was next best in, and ran on well at the end for fourth place (no good for my forecast!). Well, that's three winners and two places today (one at 40/1) and another that would have won apart from falling at the last (dead, I'm afraid). Not too bad after a barren start! I don't believe this! I wrote down three horses for the 5.40 Worcester, one of which unseated rider, one was the even money second, and the third won at 50/1! How's that for not getting a bet on in time? Sod's Law as usual! Got the forecast and almost the tricast in the 7.10 Chepstow, with Bermondsey Bob (3/1 winner), system bet Cwmni 8/1 second and Stamford Blue (fourth)! The latter got hampered at a vital stage and was running on towards the finish. Will probably win soon. Two of the top three in the 7.40 Chepstow fought out the finish, Invincible Prince and Lindoro, but the odd one out was Aroundthebay, which should have been there, and that one is worth keeping an eye on. I thought Lindoro should have won on these terms, but seemed to hang fire in the final strides.
My tip from earlier in the month (see 3rd June), Boragh Jamal, 16/1 winner of the 6.20 Kempton! How's that, hope you were taking your notes! I thought system bet Business Bay with Spencer on board was going to lead all the way in the 7.50 Kempton, but at 40/1 I had to be a supreme optimist! Of course it packed up, but was going so well at the time that I have to make a note of it for the future. How on earth these favourites (Captain John Nixon) can win so easily with penalties is beyond me - the others must give them too much respect or don't want to compete! System bet Larkrise Star 50/1 third. Typical! The system bets I backed didn't figure at the end! Captain Cool is also better than it showed tonight. How many horses does Hannon have that can't win off 58? Aflaam and Acheekyone were two from the 8.10 Chepstow that should have been in the shakeup. Blast! I kept looking at You've Been Mowed (15/2 winner) but didn't like its form figures! System bet Yes Chef 8/1 second. Wish I would do my system bets! Three horses underperformed in the 8.20 Kempton, namely Hurricane Spirit, Bomber Command and Calahonda. I wish they would run to form, as the 33/1 second, Red Somerset, was the first horse I looked at, and I didn't back it because of those others! I don't like horses with -26 figures, because I never know whether they are trying or not (usually not). One of my old favourites and second best in, Corrib, 16/1 winner of the 8.40 Chepstow! Royal Indulgence was marginally best in, but missed the break and can do much better soon! Make a note! I am convinced this missing the break is usually deliberate. System bet Keene's Day 16/1 second in the 8.50 Kempton. Highland Legacy should have done better. I got two of the first three in the 9.10 Chepstow, but missed the tricast! Croon should do better soon, and keep an eye on Robmaa. I got the winner, system bet Simple Rhythm 16/1 in the 9.20 Kempton, but was disappointed with Lethal and Teen Ager, both of which should have been in the shakeup. Lethal may take another race now before winning. Well, that's it for the day. I had quite a few winners and places today, but too many losers in between! It's nice when you can get three or four 16/1's, though!

29th June: No really strong fancies this afternoon, with lots of small races, but here goes: Naheell (unplaced) (2.30 Bright), Damietta (fourth) (3.15 Ham), Goodbye Cash (nb) (won 10/1!) (3.30 Bright), Anthemion (led most, unplaced) (3.45 Ham), Kings Approach (fourth) (4.00 Bright), Barastar (unplaced) (4.15 Ham), Briannsta (nap) (unplaced) (4.30 Bright). I would want to see money for Tournedos (second 9/2 from 14/1) (4.45 Hamilton) otherwise my selection would be Mandarin Spirit. Posted at 10.20 a.m.

Don't know what is up with Glitter Bug (2.15 Hamilton). You would expect the Johnston stable to make more of it than that! Handicaps? Good start with Naheell (above) - last! It is however very well handicapped, and will do better soon (backed today) and its form now takes on a system type look. Of course my second choice Celtic Dragon just got pipped in third in a seven horse race after looking certain to get second! They have it off to a fine art! Now you know why I don't like 4 and 7 horse races! You can never tell with Dandy Nicholls, except that his son was on Crimea in the 2.45 Hamilton. I had Artsu as best in and a 10lb pull, but the jockey let it pull like a mad thing and didn't let it go until too late! They are so annoying at times! Not one of those favourite days again today, surely? I couldn't stand it! System bet North Central 7/1 second. Damietta (above) decided to get another fourth place today, despite being by far best in! Don't know what to say other than that they are holding it back! System bet Killing Moon 15/8 winner. Lord's Seat can also do better soon. Hoorah! A 10/1 winner in Goodbye Cash (above)! Clear best in on my ratings. It's at times like that you feel some pleasure in the ratings! Second best Stargazy will do better again soon. I thought I was going to get the forecast with system bet Hypnotist for a while. Anthemion (above) led most of the way, packing up late, but will still win soon when wanted. Talk Of Saafend is another to keep an eye on. System bet Gritstone 10/11 winner. Anthemion just left a gap for it to get through. Another fourth with King's Approach (above) in the 4.00 Brighton! It was disputing almost all the way, but the line is where it matters, and they probably eased up imperceptibly. Unfortunately Evans decided to let Chinese Democracy run better than Ramamara, which was second best in! The latter can win soon. I did have a small bet on the winner, Barlaman. Barastar (above) was never at the races in the 4.15 Hamilton, but the winner Dubawi King finished like a rocket! I was hoping it was Barastar, but no chance! Pity, because the winner pipped me for the forecast! I'm getting a bit fed up with Hanagan now, keeps pipping me! Well, my next best won, but my nap, Briannsta (above) didn't! I really thought today was the day, and there was no reason why it shouldn't, except for stable plans, as usual. This was an ideal opportuntiy against weak horses! Second best Hart Of Gold seems to be running worse and worse, but I am sure it will do better when wanted! What a farce! Queen of Thebes was testing today, and led in a short burst before dropping back. Watch that one too. System bet Avonlini 18/1 third. As often happens, the Perratt stable had a winner with the least obvious of its three runnners in Distant Sun in the 4.45 Hamilton. I hate it when they do that! All it means is that the better in of their runners are held back, including Mandarin Spirit (above)! Tournedos (above) finished second at 9/2 (I got 14/1 earlier) and was well gambled today! Either the jockey misjudged the race or second was all that was wanted, as it was thrown in! Horses dropping down the handicap often get placed before winning. Best in Highland Harvest 9/2 winner of the 5.00 Brighton. I had my doubts whether the trip was too short for it. Tiger Trail was second best, but, of course, finished last! Watch for it next time. Fathey and Bateleur were equally well in for the 5.15 Hamilton, which was probably why neither was placed! I could almost see it happening before the race! Botham always seems to run well when wanted, and finished second here.
As regards the evening meetings, I highlighted Gulf Punch (3/1 winner 7.10 Stratford) on its last run (see 25th June). System bet Oscar Royal 11/1 winner of the 7.40 Stratford! Lidjo De Rouge will do better soon. System bet Chambers 6/1 winner of the 8.30 Thirsk. Kings Point was thrown in for the 7.30 Thirsk and must win soon. I tipped Champain Sands (12/1 third in the 8.00 Thirsk) recently (see 25th June). Others to note soon: Cool Art, Fyodorovitch, Kheskianto and Lucky Art, plus McEldowney, thrown in if still retaining its old ability. Alph (second in the 8.10 Stratford) is another that will win again soon, and keep an eye on Is It Me (third).

28th June: Here are a few more top-rated for today: As you will know by now, my selections either run very well or very badly, but it's all part of the plan for these horses! All I can do is give you the top-rated and see what happens! Regal Lyric (2.15 Pont) (fourth), Strike Shot (2.30 Wolv) (unplaced), Yungaburra (nap) (unplaced)(3.00 Wolv), Kerrys Requiem (nb) (fourth) (3.45 Pont), By Command (second 12/1)/Ravi River (unplaced)(4.00 Wolv), Tukitinyasok e/w (led much, unplaced) (4.30 Wolv), Peter Tchaikovsky/Daniel Thomas (5.15 Pont), Pab Special (non-runner) (5.00 Wolv), All About You e/w (5.30 Wolv). Please note that Dabbers Ridge (third 15/2) and Provost (won 18/1) are both better in for the 5.30, but not sure what they will do today. Posted at 12.05 p.m.

Typical! Regal Lyric (above) finished fourth in the 2.15 Pontefract, and I also backed the second and third, Winged Farasi (sys +1) 20/1 and Call Of Duty! Never rely on amateur ladies' races for results! Unfortunately Tommo did not make it clear which horses were which, and only right at the end did he even mention Regal Lyric! System bet Fleetwood Sands 9/4 winner of the 2.30 Wolverhampton with Speedyfix (-450) 16/1 third. Strike Shot (above) was thrown in, but they are waiting a bit longer for that one! Borogh Jamal is another to keep in mind. I tipped Nurai a while ago (see 3rd June), heavily backed 9/4 winner of the 2.45 Pontefract. Verity Lane is another to keep an eye on. I almost gave system bet Triskaidekaphobia (20/1 winner) in the 3.00 Wolverhampton, but as Yungaburra was better in, I gave that one instead! System bet Romantic Queen second. Just leads me to believe that Yungaburra is waiting for a bigger handicap race. Toolain duly obliged at 2/5 in the 3.30 Wolverhampton, but I wanted Merjaan for a place, finishing a close fourth. Kerrys Requiem (above) was hacking behind the leaders in the 3.45 Pontefract, but did not go through with its effort. My second choice was Pretty Bonnie, which won, but that did not do me any good! You never know whether these horses are going to run the same race twice, unfortunately, but it was still best in today and can win again. System bet Orpenindeed evens winner of the 4.00 Wolverhampton from system bet By Command (above) 12/1. Ravi River will do better soon, as will Landucci (unseated) and Southandwest. By Command was actually better in than Orpenindeed, but not on these official ratings. I dfidn't think Tukitinyasok (above) would win at 66/1, but it was in the lead and making me excited for a very long way, and this was clearly a test! Watch out for it! System bet Cloudy City 28/1 second! Beneath will do better shortly also. I thought Ellen Vannin was certain to finish in the first two in the 4.45 Pontefract, but no, third place. Makes you curse! In a six horse race it's a waste of money! Problem is, I'm looking at actual achieved ratings instead of official ratings in a claimer. A dangerous game, as they tend to respect the ratings in these types of races. Ellen Vannin will now do better in a handicap. Couldn't understand why Emperor's Well was such a long price in the 5.00 Wolverhampton, as it was thrown in against these. Soon found out (rubbish run). Bet it won't be such a big price next time (make a note). Pab Special (above) non-runner (at least it was not another loser). Green Passion is also due soon now. System bet Desert Hunter 11/4 winner of the 5.15 Pontefract. Peter Tchaikovsky (above), backed in from 25/1 to 14/1, but not by the stable, dropped out tamely, like most of mine today, but is thrown in when wanted (but there will probably be lots of money for it then). It has got rid of that seventh place now! DanielThomas also was poor after threatening briefly. And my third best, Avonrose? You've guessed it (finished third at 7/2 - no value in that). What a shambles! Makes you feel like shaking somebody! Well, I gave a good mention to Provost (above) 18/1 winner of the 5.30 Wolverhampton! Dabbers Ridge also finished third. All About You led for a long way, then dropped out, but will do better. How on earth can you pick the winner of a race like the 6.40 Windsor? Nothing stood out at all. System and symmetrical bet Los Nadis 11/4 winner of the 6.55 Muuselburgh with best in Andorn only second. If you went purely on the system, Los Nadis would have been the bet. I can never pick what these horses are going to do, but the first place from last season gave a clue. Media Stars made no effort, but was my second best in! Watch out for a better run soon, along with Kyber. I mentioned last time out (see 22nd June) that Timeteam had gone AWOL recently, and it won tonight at 8/1! All that means is that Fazbee did not perform tonight, as it was actually better in! It's easy if you know that your main rival is not going to make it difficult! System bet Baby Rock 7/1 second. One horse to note is Sovereignty, which will do better in a handicap soon. Glad that my internet connection went down before the 7.25 Musselburgh, as my best in did not perform: The Bear and Raccoon. How come the betting seems to know that this is going to happen? It can't be coincidence. Do they shy away when there is any competition? Hooligan Sean made no attempt to get into the 7.40 Windsor, so no doubt will run better when it is a bigger price. Does that sound cynical? I can't understand how Master Macho could not get placed in the 7.55 Musselburgh. I was watching the race and the jockey seemed content with fourth place, which is not nice for the backer! It will probably win when not expected. System bet and best in Archie Rice 8/1 winner of the 8.10 Windsor (I got 10/1)! Didn't get the forecast, but should have known that Megalala always runs well! Best in and system bet Safebreaker did not compete in the 8.25 Musselburgh (that 3 on the front again!), and must do better next time. I thought second best Balwearie was ging to win from the front, but eventually capitulated. System and symmetrical bet Milnagavie 17/2 winner of the 8.40 Windsor (I got 12/1). I also backed best in Choral Festival (11/1 third) but would have loved the forecast! Cold Quest was thrown in for the 8.50 Musselburgh, but had asymmetrical form. Must win next time! System bet Queen's Scholar 4/1 third. I thought Zabeel Tower was going to win for a while, eventually finishing fourth, and worth a bet soon. Also keep an eye on Capeability, which has been hanging for a while (system bet next time). I backed the wrong Eddery runner in the 9.10 Windsor with system bet Storm Hawk (16/1 second), but at least I got a good price! French Art will do better soon. I got the forecast in the 9.25 Musselburgh with system bet Chocamoca 14/1 and best in Rescent (6/1)! Just missed the tricast (Dispol Kabira should have been there)! The 7lb claim on Chocamoca probably made the difference and also to the third, Monsieur Pontaven. I normally discount horses with 7lb claimers on them, but sometimes they are on for a reason!

27th June: I'll give you a rest from my selections today, as I am going to concentrate on the football, and I am sure many of you would prefer to do that too. It will probably save you a few quid too (hehe)! Hope to resume tomorrow. Oh, ok, then, if you insist. I'll give you a few, all at Uttoxeter: Knowhere (2.40), Mujamead (3.10), Liberty Seeker (3.45), Coach Lane (4.55). Posted at 12.05.

Wish I hadn't given them now, and also wish I hadn't watched the football. I won't comment on the latter! But you know that I never give selections without good reason, and all of these will probably be worth a bet again next time, along with O'Toole, Schinken Otto and Woody Valentine, amongst others. It makes me laugh when they not only lose, but finish miles down the field or pull up, as I know exactly what they are doing and why they do it! I had small doubts about the form figures of several of those mentioned, but the figures will look better next time, as long as we remember them!

26th June: Here are my top-rated for this afternoon: Sir Gerry (2.00 Newc)(fifth), River Falcon (2.30 Newc) (unplaced), Macarthur (3.05 Newc - 66/1 at the time of posting) (unplaced), Northern Fling/Drawnfromthepast (3.30 Winds) (both unplaced), Classic Punch (3.55 Newm) (second 6/1), Record Breaker (4.00 Winds) (third 7/2), Hoh Hoh Hoh (4.20 Chest), Ginobili (4.35 Winds), Baylini (unplaced) /Seradim (second 16/1) (4.35 Newm), Hustle (5.00 Newm) (won 7/4- up in lights!), Tilos Gem (5.25 Chest). Posted at 11.25 a.m.

Zarooni looked like getting a 1-2-3-4 in the 1.45 Newmarket after the favourite pulled up, but had to be contnet with a 1-2. I wondered whether something like that might happen, and had backed the winner (stable jockey) to come second to the favourite. Not sure that the latter would have won anyway! I don't know how Barnie McGrew managed to win off its current mark in the 2.00 Newcastle, but it did! Sir Gerry (above) vastly underperformed in fifth place and never threatened, as did most of the other well in horses. Can do much better. Cumani's Kor Sheed winner of the 2.15 Newmarket. His runners, in common with several other top stables, usually improve a lot from their first run. Hannon's Jollywood was very disappointing, but the betting was ominous. River Falcon (above) never got into the argument, but can do better soon, and my second rated, Excusez Moi, (see 13th June) ran on late for third, after making sure that it wasn't going to win today by being too far back! I can never understand how these favourites win so easily against well-handicapped horses! System bet Bowdlers Magic 5/2 winner of the 2.35 Chester, and I got the forecast with Park View (4/1)! System bet The Rectifier 7/2 winner of the 2.55 Windsor, but the other system bet and best-in Asset did not perform! Ordnance Row was another to disappoint, but its form figures suggested that might happen (-26). Macarthur (above) would probably have been a shorter price if it was going to win, and finished just out of the places. I think it was hampered at one point. Will win when wanted. I kept looking at the winner and progressive hurdler, Overturn, which always seems to run well in front, but did not back it. Unusually for a Pipe runner on the flat, Mamlook (same rating over hurdles but more weight here) finished last, but I bet it will do better when wanted. System bet Elbedee should have won the 3.10 Chester, but the winner cut it off on the rails and stopped its momentum! I thought official top-rated Premio Loco had too much weight in the 4.20 Newmarket, but it won at 25/1! Mabait ran a stinker, and can do much better. I backed O'Brien's supposed second string, Roderick O'Connor in the 3.30 Curragh, winning at 12/1! This happens more often than it should, and is always worth a look! No joy with Northern Fling or Drawnfromthepast in the 3.30 Windsor. Why do horses rarely run two races alike? It's enfuriating! They both had claimers on them, which is often a bad sign, but not always! Looks like a bad day today, unless I can get some results out of the remainder! Best-in Game Lad ran on too late for fifth in the 3.40 Newcastle, with the progressive Camerooney winning again! System bet Esoterica 9/1 third. Johnston's apparent second string Below Zero 14/1 winner of the 3.45 Chester, but I was wise to it! Classic Punch (above) finished second in the 3.55 Newmarket, but amazingly I did rather well out of it with forecast and tricast (my top three rated), making about £50 profit (see below).

Not bad for one race after a frustrating day so far! Record Breaker (above) finished third at 7/2 after looking like winning into the final furlong. Hoh Hoh Hoh (above) travelled well, but never made an effort to get into contention. Bear it in mind for next time. Three horses were almost equally well in for this race, and another one, Green Park, would probably have won but for being hampered in the last furlong. The third, Memphis Man, was not wanted today, but is not finished when wanted again soon. Seradim (above) could have won the race at 16/1, but once getting in front, I suspect allowed itself to get beaten! Baylini did not figure in the end, but I suggest will go a lot closer next time! Good day for selections today - not! Ginobili (above) finished plum last, but I wasn't surprised. That is usually a sign of a good run next time. Easy to say, isn't it, but keep it in your note book! Best-in Daaweitza was hacking all over the leader in the 4.45 Newcastle, but soon packed up when headed. My second rated The Galloping Shoe (see my comment 9th June) won the race with system bet Prince Of Johanne in third. Almost got the forecast! Lang Shining and Snoqualmie Boy were almost equally in for the 4.50 Chester, and I backed both just in case, with Lang Shining winning at 7/1! Well, I did get a winner today with Hustle (above) easy 7/4 winner of the 5.00 Newmarket! Unfortunately there was a 25p rule 4 message! System bet Russian Rave 6/1 second. Perhaps you would prefer me to give all short-priced 'certainties', many of which don't win in any case? The jockey made a good job of making Tilos Gem (above) look like a donkey in the 5.25 Chester, so I almost made a clean sweep of non-winners, but not quite! Apologies if today was a bad day, but they do happen, more so at weekends I notice (perhaps because of greater public scrutiny?) Hopefully I can do better next time! Into the evening, but will probably watch the football tonight (will certainly be watching tomorrow afternoon!). System bet Remotelinx 8/11 winner of the 5.50 Lingfield (30 mins delayed). Had to stay for the 6.20 Lingfield, with Make My Dream (system type form) 13/2 winner (I got 15/2)! Wooden King ran well for a while and should be noted soon.

25th June: I am sorry that, when I have two or three selections for one race, I invariably seem to pick the wrong one to dsisplay on many occasions, while I actually have the winner on my list! Perhaps I am influenced by the prices in trying to give value odds? I can supply my three top-rated in a subscription service if you wish, but that would involve a lot more bets. It does however work for me most of the time, with smaller stakes and reverse forecasts and tricasts. Anyway, I will try again today: Tislaam (2.50 Donc) (third 6/1), Little Edward e/w (3.05 Folk) (fourth), Aggravation (3.15 Mkt) (won 14/1!), Beaver Patrol (unplaced)/Cornus (won 9/1!) (3.40 Folkestone), Tobago Bay (3.50 Mkt) (pulled up!), Run To Space (4.25 Mkt) (pulled up), Tudor Prince (4.35 Donc), Dora Explora e/w (4.45 Folk), First Fought (4.55 Mkt). Posted at 12.40 p.m.

A good start for me with Bandanaman 100/30 and Treeko 9/2 in a forecast in the 2.10 Market Rasen. Just got a place in my placepot with Royal Liaison in the 2.20 Doncaster (thought it had got pipped). Second with A Litlle Bit Dusty 10/1 in the 2.30 Folkestone (didn't fancy the winner, but someone did). I backed Gulf Punch in the 2.40 Market Rasen, and think it could have finished closer than it did, so hopefully it will run better next time! Tislaam (above) 6/1 third in the 2.50 Doncaster. I think it could have done better, as it was always hacking along! Itsthursdayalready finished about fifth, and can do better soon. Little Edward (above) was never going to win at 25/1 from that stable, but ran very respectably in fourth without being pushed unduly. Keep your eye on it for a better run soon. I think because it could not beat Abbondanza, they decided to run it down the field. System bet Aggravation (above) 14/1 winner! That's better, restores some confidence! Also keep an eye on Hair Of The Dog, which ran well for a long way today! My placepot went down with Murura in the 3.25 Doncaster! Couldn't last! These seven horse races are a menace! Keep an eye on Call To Arms, which finished third and I think can do better. Cornus (above) 9/1 winner of the 3.40 Folkestone (I got 12/1)! Beaver Patrol was never sighted, but will do better. Wish I'd put Cornus in my Lucky 63! Tobago Bay (above) tailed off! There's always one, isn't there! It was clearly a deliberate tactic, as it normally front-runs! It was clear best in on hurdles form with Magical Legend, which finished third. Both will do much better. Odds-on favourite Whoateallthepius beaten again in the 4.05 Doncaster! I prefer to think that the stable bought it for future handicaps, and it's going to slide down for a while. Time will tell! The money for Brittain's horse was significant again! Black Jacari was going better than the favourite in the 4.15 Folkestone, but who knows what the riding plans were? The favourite had nothing to lose by winning in terms of future odds. Better for the others to come second or third in a three horse race, and keep your powder dry for a bigger race! That looking around makes me laugh, they know they are not going to lose! I told you my selections either win or are pulled up over the jumps! Run To Space (above) never attempted to get into the race, and the writing was on the wall at halfway! That's what frustrates me about the type of horse that I back! That man McCoy again with Tempsford! Knew I shouldn't have tipped Tudor Prince (above) because if you look at its record, it always runs a good race followed by a bad one (not its fault, poor thing). Is extremely well in, probably next time. System bet Thunderball 20/1 third, with my other fancy, system bet Toto Skyllachy, in fourth. Didn't matter whether you backed Dora Explora (above) to win or each-way, as it finished last! I noted a brief effort on the outside at halfway, so no doubt they are checking to see how much ability it retains. It was thrown in here if it still has that ability. I also backed my second fancy, Vinces, which finished second at 12/1. Well, I missed the 4.55 Market Rasen, but First Fought was no good there, either, so you will have to put up with a couple of winners and a place today! Still, could be much worse! That one, King's Majesty and Tampa Boy, none of which performed today, are all due soon. I always smile (through gritted teeth) when none of the top-rated try, because it's so obvious! Engulf was going by far the best in the 5.05 Doncaster, but the money must have been on the other one! They are so clever at getting pipped on the line! System bet Understory (Johnston again) 3/1 winner of the 5.15 Folkestone! Goose Green was best in, but no money for it today! System bet Premier Kadam 10/1 looked all over the winner until McCoy got a drive out of Black Annie 7/2 to win. Fortunately I had both in a forecast, but would have preferred Premier Kadam to win! Hallstatt (third) was far better than it showed in the 5.40 Doncaster, but you can't back against the riding arrangements! Will win a bigger race soon. How I hate these four horse races (unless an outsider wins, of course)! The horse with the best form, Hannon's Sweet Cecily, won the 6.00 Newmarket at 11/2. This often happens against newcomers. I was disappointed with Miss Moneypenni, which seemed to be going well enough, but dropped out! The three best horses for the 6.30 Newmarket all looked like taking a hand, but none of them were wanted tonight, and all failed to get home. For your notes, they were Aviso (drifted dramatically in the betting), Eastern Gift and Orpen Wide (led for a long way and never looked in any trouble until the jockey started rowing away for no apparent reason!). All three will do better again soon. Sacrilege won again, that's twice I've missed it now, but wouldn't have been good enough if the others competed. Did they put Moore on Eastern Gift to suggest that, if he can't win on it, nobody can? Bagutta Sun should have done better than fourth on these terms in the 7.45 Chester, and threatened briefly near the finish. Can do better soon. Angus Newz was set up for a handicap after tonight's run in the 8.05 Newmarket, so watch for it again soon. I didn't want Opus Maximus in the 8.20 Chester (I wanted stablemate My Gacho, which can win soon). Oh, it did finish third, which is more encouraging! I don't know what has happened to the Evans stable, who had three well in runners tonight and none of them performed! System bet Sircozy 11/2 winner of the 8.40 Newmarket. Why on earth did best in Folio fail to figure? They never let them run two races alike! Must win next time (system bet). That's why! System bet Layla's Lexi 7/1 winner of the 8.50 Chester. Blast! was just about to back it when the race went off! I thought it was about time Geojimali ran a good race, and I thought it was going to win for a while in the 9.00 Newcastle, eventually finishing third at 33/1! As usual, I backed the wrong Easterby horse in Twisted! Seven horse races! Tell me about them! First and second favourites came in again! I was on Steelcut and Diamond Johnny G, finishing third and fourth! I hate it when best in horses use these races to get the right places for their future plans! Keep an eye on Tony The Tap, which will do better soon. I wondered whether Dragon Slayer would make an effort in the 9.20 Chester, and it finished like a train for second at 25/1! Champain Sands is due very soon now. Well, an enjoyable day, but I've had enough now. See you tomorrow!

24th June: Nothing much jumps off the page at long prices today, so caution is advised (small each-way stakes unless short-priced): Tartan Triumph (2.00 Good) (unplaced), The Two G's (2.20 War) (fifth), Vhujon (unplaced) /Charles Darwin (33/1 third) (2.55 War), Mohanad (nap) (second 7/4) (3.10 Good), Deadly Secret (3.20 New) (unplaced), Rain Stops Play (nb) (5.05 New), Hilbre Court (5.15 War) (led, fourth), Royal Composer (6/1 second)/Loyal Knight (5.40 New) (unplaced). Posted at 11.40 a.m.

If you were watching the 2.00 Goodwood, you would have seen Titan Triumph (above) travelling really well, making a sweeping move down the outside, then fading. I would suggest it is ready to perform very soon. I also backed the winner, system bet Zero Money (9/1). I told you that my selections usually run very well or very badly, and The Two G's finished last in the 2.20 Warwick. Never trust small races! Next best in Tom Folan was the winner. I am still waiting for Annia Galeria to show its true form, which no doubt it will in a bigger race. I had the forecast with Ship's Biscuit and Scorn in the 2.35 Goodwood. Let's hope Moore can also win on Mohanad later! Lady Royale was very disappointing in the 2.45 Warwick, fading after looking capable of taking second. Unfortunately my other choice in the forecast, Alfraamsey, won, and I didn't back it! That always seems to happen with my forecasts - false economy! Three of my top four came in for the 2.55 Warwick with Favourite Girl 5/1, Alfresco 9/2 and Charles Darwin 33/1 (above). Vhujon is keeping its powder dry but must do better soon! Fortunately I got the forecast and tricast, which should be worth something (£33.50 for 30p)! Couldn't believe that Mohanad got beaten in the 3.10 Goodwood, and I think it did its best, so this Sunny Spells (-040) must be very well handicapped! Two disappointments were Red Twist and Royal Premier. System bet Tartan Gunna 5/2 winner of the 3.20 Newcastle. I knew that Deadly Secret (above) would come either first or last, and it was the latter. You normally expect money from the Fahey stable, and there wasn't much for that one today. I just thought they might be pulling a fast one with two runners in the race. Keep an eye on it, possibly next time, as it is very well in! A predictable result in the 3.30 Warwick, with favourite beating second favourite. Didn't have much to beat there! I almost expected a 1-2 from Hannon in the 3.45 Goodwood, and I was right, with the second favourite Sextons House just shading it. I thought Channon's Premium Coffee was going to get placed, but just pipped into fourth. The two best in for the 3.55 Newcastle, Planetarium and Inchnadamph decided to finish fourth and fifth today. Five horse race, I expect things like that, but it can be very annoying. Both can win in bigger races than this soon. Seta was the obvious choice for the 4.05 Warwick, but I was very suspicious of the price of second rated Virginia Hall, and I was proved right, as it didn't figure! System bet Slip Sliding Away 12/1 winner of the 4.20 Goodwood! Lady Jane Digby could have won the 4.30 Newcastle, but I also fancied the winner Pachattack and the third Honimiere! In fact they worked out more or less to their ratings! Unfortunately despite that I got the forecast the wrong way around! I was suspicious of the price of Honimiere, which has been well backed when winning, and the fact that it finished third probably explains it (also getting rid of a first place). Channon's Aataash 9/1 winner of the 4.55 Goodwood. perhaps Mr Hitchcott was trying to tell me something? All the others got in each other's way! I think someone has been looking at my list today, as Rain Stops Play, (above) cruising two furlongs out, stopped suddenly into sixth place. Must win soon! Second best in Sea Land finished fourth, typically, so I got nothing out of the race! Royal Applord is another worth noting soon. Hilbre Court (above) led most of the way before finishing fourth. Somebody has been looking at my list, as it was clear best in. Tanforan was not wanted today, although second best (I was rather hoping the stable would have a 1-2). Third best and system bet Maybe I Won't 12/1 third. Some days you pick 'em, some days you don't! Today is in the latter category, although I myself am well up based on one good tricast. Royal Composer (above) was well backed from a big early price, but the way it ran suggested that second place was all that was wanted, as it started its effort too late. Loyal Knight (above) will do better soon. Well, I told you that some days are better than others, but don't despair, as the good days do pop up on a regular basis! Best in Refuse To Wait ran like a crab in the 6.10 Newcastle (must win soon), and it was obvious that, outside of the winner, Whispered Times, nobody else wanted to come second, as third best Angel Of Fashion slowed right up when gaining on Vito Volterra, and nothing else wanted to get remotely near! What a farce! I thought all the others were under orders not to get placed, and then it becomes quite difficult! If you get a chance to see the race, look at the finish, because it was almost in slow motion after the winner! What a start to the evening! My three best in finished first second and third, with Methaaly, Fromsong and The Tatling! What a forecast and tricast! And the first one up in my Lucky 63 with Methaaly, on which I got 13/2! I also had the first two up in my Lucky 63 with Methaaly and Regents Secret, followed by a third with The Hermitage, but that was it! The annoying thing was that I placed some bets before I went out and also had Magnitude and Almaty Express, which I could have included! Strangely I have been following Methaaly (see 19th June) and Almaty Express (see 4th June) for ages, as you can see from my recent comments, but did not put them together! Never mind, made another £60 profit today in small bets! Best in Sea Land finished second in the 6.50 Newcastle, and was going as well as the winner, but did not pick up as quickly (deliberately). Must win soon. A horse that I backed a couple of times in maidens, Spelterini, 10/1 winner of the 6.55 Curragh! Hannon again with Calypso Star 4/1 in the 7.00 Newmarket! Marafong and Bell's Ocean are now due a much better run. I don't know what has happened to Transfixed, other than it is being held up to continually reduce its handicap mark. It has got enough noughts now, I should think! Best in with system bet Rasselas (second) tonight, it finished last! Another Magic Man (-3456) (see system) 13/2 winner. If that could win, Transfixed should also have won, because it was better in!

23rd June: Can't improve on yesterday (can only get worse), but here are this afternoon's top-rated: A Haon A Do (1.50 Worcs) (unseated), Fishforcompliments (2.30 Carl) (11/1 second), Mount Hadley/Rainbow Mirage (3.05 Carl) (both unplaced), Benandonner (3.15 Sal) (second 16/1 from 25/1 available earlier), Sadlers Star (3.25 Worcs) (14/1 winner!), Palomar (3.35 Carl) (12/1 fourth), The Real Deal (4.00 Worcs) (pulled up), Marodima (4.30 Worcs) (unplaced), Yungaburra (5.15 Carl) (unplaced), Binnion Bay (5.30 Sal) (third 12/1). Posted at 12.10 p.m.

Couldn't pick the winner of the 1.25 Carlisle (Bold Bidder 25/1), except that it was from Kevin Ryan's stsble, which has been in good form in general! I backed Darwin Star (second) each-way in the 1.35 Salisbury, and should have taken notice of the money for Perfect Tribute. Despite being favourite, this time Channon's Silver Show was hopeless! Knew it couldn't last! A Haon A Du (above) was making nice progress in the 1.50 Worcester when unseating rider. A strange incident with no apparent reason, hope it wasn't deliberate. Fortunately I also backed third rated Occasionally Yours (sys+1) (28/1 winner)! No, I'm not just saying that, you know I always tell the truth! Very long-priced first three! Nomad will do better again soon. Smart's Al Medina 4/1 winner of the 2.00 Carlisle. Whenever I back Fahey's runners, they don't win, and vice versa! How can you pick horses like Midnight Feast for the forecast in the 2.10 Salisbury when it was tailed off first time? Clear Sailing winner of the 2.20 Worcester, but what on earth happened to Dormouse? I suppose with Flitchity (18/1 second) it doesn't pay to ignore McCain's runners! Fishforcompliments (above) was by far best in for the 2.30 Carlisle, finishing only second at 11/1. Second in Bonnie Prince Blue was hopeless today and will do better (system next time). The former Hannon runner Ailsa Craig 10/1 winner. Strangely Hamilton beat fellow stable jockey Paul Hanagan! I wondered why Starclass was so well backed in the 2.45 Salisbury, but it won well. Usually pays to take notice of money from that stable. System bet Pagan Sword 18/1 second in the 2.55 Worcester. Mount Hadley (above) was involved for a while, but dropped out, and Rainbow Mirage was never sighted. Raptor and those two will do better soon. I kept looking at Camerooney, but did not back it! What a load of disappointments! I thought Mount Hadley was being kept for this race! So far today, it's after the Lord Mayor's Show, but there is still time! Second rated Mahadee 9/1 winner of the 3.15 Salisbury from top-rated Benandonner 16/1 (above)! Fortunately I had a reverse forecast on the two! Sadlers Star (above) 14/1 winner! Second best Petit Fleur finished third. Best in Palomar (above) 12/1 fourth in the 3.35 Carlisle, with equal rated Kingsdale Orion 25/1 third! This Brushing must be some horse! Ellison had the second, third and fourth, including those two! Not too bad now, I've given a few respectable selections! The Real Deal (above) pulled up! You have to expect that sort of thing with my selections, but you can back it next time! Two Miles West was also well in, but not for today! Well, that's shot one Lucky 63 for today, good job I've got another one going! Mrs Boss let me down for a place in the 4.20 Salisbury! There's always one, isn't there? Will do better soon.Top-rated Bathwick Xaara second and third rated system bet Ramamara third. Obviously Marodima (above) was not wanted today, because it was clear best in with Ormello (second). System bet Mibleu 9/1 winner! Not one of the best in horses figured in the 4.40 Carlisle! Probably because there were several closely weighted, and they don't like that! Wyatt Earp, Green Park and Bravely were the best three. Do they discuss the outcome of the race beforehand, or do they ask the others if their horse is competing? It baffles me, but something similar must happen! I backed Appleby's system bet Minella in the 5.05 Worcester, and it led nearly all the way, then dropped out! How disappointing! I was expecting a good run from Yungaburra (above) in the 5.15 Carlisle, but I had to put up with a forecast between second-rated Sir Mozart 5/1 and third-rated Bentley 11/1! I'll settle for that! Yungaburra (hacking at the back) must try soon now. Just shows the best rated only win when they try! I keep telling trainers that, but they don't take any notice! Binnion Bay! What can I say about that? Missed the break, then ran on like a rocket to finish third (I thought it was fifth)! Don't you just hate it when that happens? What happens when it starts with the others? Like For Like is due a good run soon. System bet Eye For The Girls second. Well, not a bad day, one good winner and a few good places! Even managed to watch the football in between! One of the best in for the 5.50 Kempton, Goodbye Cash, 20/1 second. I noticed it because it used to be with David Evans, and his son rode it tonight. Count Ceprano and Wrighty Almighty must run a better race very soon. Even these apprentices can do a bit of acting, apparently. Do they go to a special school? Best in Talamahana 33/1 third in the 6.05 Bath, finished very fast! I fancied Stage Acclaim and Graylyn Ruby (see 11th June) in the 6.20 Kempton, the latter winning at 20/1! But I didn't get the forecast! Damn! Why is it when I back something as an afterthought that it wins along with one of my main selections? I thought that Dee Cee Elle would run better, but perhaps it will be next time now! System bet The Mighty Atom 8/1 second in the 6.30 Naas. Best in Ravi River never made an effort in the 6.40 Bath! Oh, guess who was on it? Yes, Mr Heffernan again! he either wins or comes nowhere most of the time! Johnston's bottom weight Honest Broker 100/30 winner of the 6.50 Kempton! Johnston's often win at bigger prices, so when there is money for one, you have to take notice! System bet Law Of Attraction 8/1 third. Almost got the forecast with Solent Ridge and system bet Statue Of Dreams (33/1 third) in the 7.00 Naas! Zarooni's Half Truth 4/1 winner of the 7.10 Bath. Drat, ignored it in favour of Byronic (second). The 7lb claimer made the difference! Why did I think that Zarooni would have first and second in the 7.20 Kempton. I should have known that Frankie would win with Deep South (9/2), and backed that one on its own! You can be too greedy at times! They always seem to pull these tricks when they have two runners! Why can't people see through it? System bets Desert Romance and Laca Dancer first and third in the 7.30 Naas! Just missed the forecast again! I just back in Irish racing using system form figures now, it's much easier. High Spice (sys+1) (see 19th June) 14/1 winner of the 7.40 Bath! Hannon's Bilko Pak 5/2 winner of the 7.50 Kempton. Knew I should have backed it to win! Prescott's normally win when they are favourites, but not always! Well, I've had enough for the day! Just about broke even, which isn't bad considering many of my bets went down. Still, that's racing, it's not too bad if you can break even or make a good profit some days (like yesterday).

22nd June: This afternoon's top-rated: Seneschal (3.00 Bright) (won 50/1!), Danehillsundance (3.15 Bev) (won 9/4), Ledgerwood (3.30 Bright) (unplaced), Fathey (3.45 Bev) (third 16/1), Stargazy (4.00 Bright) (won 20/1!), Hart Of Gold (4.30 Bright) (led, unplaced), Helping Hand (4.45 Bev) (12/1 winner!), Nawaaff (5.00 Bright) (fifth), Divine Spirit (5.15 Bev) (fifth). Posted at 12.30 p.m.

Clive Brittain's Beyeh 5/2 winner of the 2.15 Beverley. I mentioned that when his horses are shortish prices they are often worth a bet. Unfortunately I thought the same applied to Pat Eddery's, but his horse Laffraaj never got running. Channon's Star Now started at 5/1 in the betting and drifted out but won easily! His is another to follow at middling prices. Wish I'd backed my hunch, but I don't like Hitchcott as a jockey. I didn't know whether to trust top-rated Kames Park in the 2.45 Beverley, as it had let me down a few times when it should have won recently. In fact I was disappointed that it won today, as I was looking for a good price in the future! That has ruined it now! This is often the sort of race where it would come third, so that was the view I took, unfortunately. Slip is running below form, but should do better in a handicap soon. A 50/1 winner with Seneschal (above)! Hope you were on it! The same trainer had a 66/1 winner yesterday! Timeteam was second best in, but seems to have gone AWOL recently! two winners in a row! Danehillsundance 9/4 winner of the 3.15 Beverley with system bet Umverti second. The only one I didn't back in the 3.30 Brighton, Gulf President (my old mate Heffernan again) won the race, and I backed second, third, fourth and last (Ledgerwood above). Swine! I had a double with Ledgerwood and Seneschal, but they won't let you get doubles like that very often! (Hope they didn't pay it off). Don't despair with Ledgerwood, back it again on its next couple of outings, as it was best in today! I thought system bet Fathey (above) was coming to win the race in the 3.45 Beverley, but it finished third at 16/1 in a very close finish! Musca was next best in, but missed the break, and will do better. Also keep an eye on Ansell's Pride next time. A good day so far, with Stargazy (above) winning at 20/1! I pinpointed the fact that it was well in and had missed the break yesterday! How's that for tipping? Am I better today? How many winners have you had at those prices recently? Another odds-on favourite beaten in the 4.15 Beverley! How many times does that happen? My second rated Forest Dane 8/1 winner of the 4.30 Brighton. Hart Of Gold (above) led for a long way, but as usual packed up! Must win soon when it keeps going! I now have two winners (18/1 and 14/1 at early prices) and a 16/1 third in a Lucky 31. Wish me luck with the other two! Well, that's another one up with Helping Hand (above) (12/1 winner)! That gives me three doubles and a treble at huge prices! One to go, come on Divine Spirit! Blast! Divine Spirit let me down for a fantastic return (thousands), but can win soon. Wish it was today! I still made over £300 for a stake of £3.10! If Divine Spirit had won, I would have had 6 doubles, four trebles and I also had an accumulator going on all five. Do you think Skybet askedDivine Spirit to run badly today? No, ridiculous! All the same, I have had bets in the past where the last leg has not been sighted! Hmmm.. I see from the race report that Divine Spirit was making headway when it did not get a clear run, and it finished a close-up fifth. Drat! I couldn't make out which one it was during the race, but I did see one cantering in behind! Nawaaff (above) finished fifth and can do better, and I can almost guarantee that we will see a better run from Caribbean Coral in the near future. Bear it in mind. System bet Black Coffee 14/1 third in the 6.20 Newbury. I thought Choral Festival was going to win, but the rider seemd to pull it back when in a good lead! Keep an eye on it! Wish this Ghufa would stop winning. It's beginning to annoy me! Oh, by the way, with one exception, I am still waiting for your emails!

21st June: This afternoon's top-rated: Garstang (2.45 Ling) (unplaced), Cativo Cavallino (3.15 Ling) (25/1 winner), Anjomarba (3.30 Wolv) (unplaced), Haasem (3.45 Ling) (unplaced), Silver Linnet (4.00 Wolv) (fifth), Summers Target (4.15 Ling) (unplaced), Traphalgar (4.30 Wolv) (unplaced - ridiculous), Woolston Ferry (5.00 Wolv) (unplaced), Tag Team (5.30 Wolv) (unplaced), Mohanad (5.45 Ling) (third 10/1). Based on my database ratings only. If you would like copies of the databases (flat & national hunt £20) please email me.

Two odds-on favourites went down in the first two races, confirming what I have said on numerous occasions! I backed Mishtaaq (third) each-way in the 2.30 Wolverhampton, with Swinburn's Silver Alliance winning at 12/1. Garstang (above) was best in, as I suggest above, and was well there inside the final furlong before not running on, and it looks like next time now, as it was the complete outsider today. System bet Bajan Tryst 14/1 second. I don't know how they work out what the favourite is in these races, as there is no obvious difference between most of the runners. Strangely, although Marco Botti had a well-backed runner which was unplaced in the 2.30, his Sweet Origin finished second at 20/1 in the 3.00. I backed system bet Gra Adhmhar each-way, finishing third at 6/1. Cativo Cavallino (above) 25/1 winner of the 3.15 Lingfield, with my second-rated, Copperwood second! I had a small (10p) reverse forecast on the two (£174 forecast)! Anjomarba (above) was clear best in for the 3.30 Wolverhampton at these weights, but finished in the ruck. Must win a similar race again. I also backed system bet Clear Ice (12/1 third). If I had backed the favourite Under Fire in the 3.45 Lingfield, I would have had the tricast, as I backed Flyinflyout 12/1 and Bookiebasher Babe 20/1 (second and third)! Haasem (above) was best in, but you usually have to see money from the Jenkins stable. Keep an eye on it soon. Was this another race where the best in did not want to beat the favourite? Silver Linnet (above) normally front-runs, but made no effort today, running on for fifth. Is very well in when wanted and can run faster than this! Well, the three best in, including Summers Target (above), Inquisitress and Orsett Lad made no attempt in the 4.15 Lingfield. How can you explain that? It defies belief! Just shows that any horse can be made to lose if that is what is wanted! What did the stewards have to say about the previous form of the winner, Eye Of Eternity? I would like to find out! Yet another race (4.30 Wolverhampton) where the best in were pathetic in their efforts. A 25/1 winner and a 501 second which were not pickable except with a pin! System bet Rickety Bridge 8/1 third. There is no explanation other than that the best in did not try again, as otherwise this result is nonsense! I think every so often trainers just say, "We'll cock a snook at all known form and let something else win!" I know the form and not even I could pick these! Trainers, please tell me what is the point of ratings if no horse runs to them? I await your reply. Mark Twain is better than it showed in the 4.45 Lingfield, so what is the point in running at the back of the field and never getting into the race? Will probably take another race now before making an effort. Johnston went against my system by letting Jutland win with an outstanding first place. Naughty, naughty, Mark! Yet another race (5.00 Wolverhampton) where the best in were not sighted (apart from Carmenero). Woolston Ferry has run a few lifeless races lately, and I am not sure if it is getting rid of all good form before making an effort. Could be a long time! You have to admit that the jockeys make it look good (the way the horse is struggling, that is)! In most races you only have to look at the betting to see which horses are going to compete, but I can't take a chance on that and miss a good priced one! That's where the drain on the bank comes in. But it is so exhilarating when you pick one that wins at a massive price! Another odds-on favourite in Pink Palace 10/11 beaten in the 5.15 Lingfield, but not by the one I expected! I thought they were pulling a fast one with Invitee, which ran well, but never threatened to win. Wondered why Tag Team (above) was 33/1 when it had all second and third places in the 5.30 Wolverhampton! Obviously a day for a dip in form today, but best in, will do better soon. What makes me laugh is how a horse like Bold Diva makes the rest look as if they are standing still! It is obviously considerably better than anything it has shown on the track! Another naughty naughty with a first place from last season! Stick to the rules, guys, please! Don't write off Dhhamaan either, which is still exceptionally well handicapped, but watch for the money if Ruth decides to let it win! Third best in Stargazy missed the break, and it is very interesting when this happens, as they usually don't miss the break when they are backed! Mohanad (above) was thrown in for the 5.45 Lingfield, but just didn't want to win (finished third at 10/1 and was actually reined back near the finish!) Was obviously full of running behind the leaders, and may well win next time. Reload and Valmari are two others from the race which are very well in, but not wanted today! Well, a 25/1 winner would just about have covered your bets today, plus a 10/1 place, but still amazing how so many horses underperformed on the day! System bet Irish Elk 20/1 third in the 6.00 Kilbeggan. Alan King's Dolcetto 25/1 winner of the 6.40 Windsor! Paul Mulrennan's only ride of the night! Damn, didn't see it until the race was off! Never ignore King's on the flat! I backed Beauchamp Xiara (symmetrical, system type form) (20/1 second). What a forecast I could have had! I backed best in Stamford Blue in the 6.50 Chepstow, finishing third at 22/1! The winner, Blue Aura, was not quite as well in, but it won at 25/1 and mine didn't (7lb claimer). Hannon's Mr Perceptive was never sighted in the 7.10 Windsor. Wondered why the favourite was so short! Another boilover in the 7.20 Chepstow, with The Jailer (-006) 66/1 winner, and Blessed Place 16/1 third! Mazzola and Spic And Span failed to figure. Marvellous! The Jailer was certainly not best in, which means that two or three horses, including those mentioned, under-performed, as usual! Duers was thrown in for the 7.30 Kilbeggan, but as usual at a longish price, it was not intended to win, lolloping into second place! Di Stefano, fourth in the 7.40 Windsor, is running well below form, and must do better soon. It's no good when you've backed it today, though. Come on! I expected good hurdler Mhilu to make a better fist of the 7.50 Chepstow, but I did back system bet Never Can Tell in second place at 7/1. Johnston again with the winner. Difficult to back against his horses! Bell's Ocean was well out of the handicap in the 8.10 Windsor, but should do better when in the handicap proper. Top-rated Sagredo 15/2 winner of the 8.20 Chepstow for Jonjo O'Neill! Ocean Transit will do better soon. Another huge priced turn-up in the 8.50 Chepstow, with Cotswold Village 66/1 winner and Ancient Greece 16/1 second! Wondered why Baltimore Clipper was 14/1 in the 9.10 Windsor - soon found out! They are either very shrewd at knowing they cannot win, or give very specific instructions! I know which I prefer to believe! System bet The Shuffler 6/4 winner of the 9.20 Chepstow. Well, I made a profit today on a mixture of winner, forecasts and places, and a correct score bet on Spain v Honduras 2-0! That'll have to do for today!

20th June: Daraybad was best in on previous ratings for the 2.30 Hexham, but jumped badly and dropped out. Should do better in a handicap. If I'd known that Monetary Fund was going to flop in the 2.20 Hereford, I would have got the forecast, as I strongly fancied Players Please! Why do things always go wrong with odds-on favourites? Best-in Abu Dubai 14/1 winner of the 2.40 Pontefract, with second best Solitary 33/1 third! Almost got the forecast! Top-rated Mulaazem 14/1 third in the 2.50 Hereford with system bet Timoca fourth. That Jonjo got the winner with Mauritino again! Barodine and Tar will do better soon. I wrote down the first five home in the 3.00 Hexham, but didn't get the forecast. Hapthor dropped out, then ran on again for third at 40/1! Very strange! As indicated by the betting, the three best-in for the 3.10 Pontefract were hopeless, perhaps afraid of each other. Best-in Profits Reality led for a long way, then packed up! Second best Snoqualmie Boy never figured, and Bazergan made a brief effort on the outside. All three must do better shortly, but no good today, grrr...! It would be nice if they made an effort! Fourth best Arizona John 10/1 winner, with my nemesis Follow The Flag 11/1 second! System bet Thenamescapesme 11/1 winner of the 3.20 Hereford, with top-rated Scalini's 33/1 in second and system bet Sean Og 12/1 third! Despite backing all of them, I didn't get forecast or tricast! If I'd mixed top-rated and system bets, I would have. What a miss! Top-rated Always Bold finished only third in the 3.30 Hexham. Flying Doctor must be even better than its official rating on this showing! Got the forecast the wrong way around with Prospect Wells and Nanton in the 3.40 Pontefract. Odds-on favourite beaten again! I should know that by now! Fealing Real cost me the forecast and tricast in the 3.50 Hereford, as I had the next three! I get the feeling that they let these horses win! Marked Man 12/1 third and Pipers Legend 9/1 second were clearly better in than the favourite, but obviously only wanted to be placed today! This Crosby Jemma (-36) (16/1) always wins when I don't expect it in the 4.00 Hexham! Damn, I thought Celticello (second) would win! System bet Markington winner of the 4.10 Pontefract, but the other system bet, Mith Hill, dropped out tamely for my forecast! The only runner with no British form, Swinging Hawk, nearly pipped him! Top-rated Thehonourablelady dropped out, then ran on again for second in the 4.20 Hereford! How annoying, should have won this! Topflight Wildbird is another that was very disappointing, especially as a system bet! Von Galen was best in for the 4.30 Hexham, finishing only third. Next best in Sycho Fred finished fourth. Where did that Simply Smashing come from? The Green Hat has had its bad run now, so should do better next time. System bet Sharakti second in the 4.40 Pontefract. I wanted it in a forecast with Yankee Bright, but nothing seems to work out as you want it! Why do these favourites always win when on paper they shouldn't? They know more than I do! Viper should have won easily, but got beaten into second. These sorts of results always annoy me, because the favourite made a terrible mistake which should have lost it! Were they all on the winner? Best in Bubbelas did not really show in the 5.10 Pontefract, and will do better. Next best and system bet Tamarind Hill 8/1 winner (I got 12/1). I also fancied Saxby, which finished third. Get your money on Nothing Is Forever next time out! The clear best in ran in front all the way to the second last and then packed up (I almost expected it!) Just testing today, but should be a certainty! Medicinal, clear second best in, was also not wanted today, but will also do better! Annoying to lose my money after looking like collecting, but at least I know that it will be competitive soon! Similarly, I was almost expecting Civil Servant to pull up or finish last, because it will be a system bet next time! I wasn't sure if Dark Energy would try today, because of its form figures, but it came second at 12/1. Why do so many of the horses that I back at big prices eventually come in fourth? It must be more than coincidence. Sahara Prince, best in for the 5.50 Hereford, annoyingly did just that, running on late. It makes me fume! No doubt when it is wanted, it will be much shorter in price, as usually happens for no apparent reason. Let's hope it is the same sort of price when it wins! Rapide Plaisir, second best in, was also terrible, and will do better soon. Oh, I forgot, it has to have symmetrical form, doesn't it? I just want a fair run for my money. Connections obviously know what is going to happen in most cases, judging by the prices. Is that fair on the punter? The winner was touted by the TV pundits before the race, so somebody knew something! System bet One Of The Boys 8/1 second with Red Jester (-46) 16/1 second. Come on boys, play the game! If you have a horse that should be winning, let it win and don't mess around race after race! Having researched every race in depth today, it is galling to have had only a handful of winners and a number of places from all that work. If horses run to their form, it should be much higher than that!

19th June: I plumped for Zaidan in the 2.30 Ascot, winning at 7/1. I also noticed that there was money for Sonning Rose, but didn't back it at 12/1. Dickie Le Davoir is definitely due now after failing to win again in the 2.45 Newmarket. System bet Dancing Mate 9/2 third. Top Bid and White Shift were not at the races today. Qadar must be due now in Ireland, after failing yet again today! I thought Harcas was sure to get placed in the 2.55 Redcar, but dropped out. Sea Land was best in, and travelled well, but no money for it today. System bet Ocean Bright 9/1 second. I backed City Dancer (second) in the 3.00 Ayr, but put it in a forecast with the favourite. Blast! The winner Tropical Treat was also on my list! I also had Harbinger and Duncan on my list for the 3.05 Ascot, but the race was off too quick for the bet. Top-rated Baylini 10/1 second in the 3.20 Newmarket, but rarely wins these days! No money for Sakhee's Pearl, but surely it is better than this? Wicked Daze was best in for the 3.30 Ayr, finishing second, with second-rated Chookie Hamilton in fourth. Wondered why it was 40/1. Soon found out! They have a habit of doing that when it will be unplaced. Do they tell the bookies in advance? Damn! If that Dirar hadn't been there, I would have had the tricast! Joseph Henry and Malcheek were by far best in for the 3.35 Redcar, but obviously third and fourth were all that were wanted today! There's no catering for stable plans, but it's annoying when you know they could have been first and second! Blast! I had Fleeting Spirit on the wrong side of the track in the 3.50 Ascot, but it finished fourth. High Spice was best in for the 3.55 Newmarket but dropped out after leading for most of the way. Can win soon. My system bet Silca Conegliano dropped right out after leading early. Why do they do that, it can't be that bad? System bet Ignatieff 3/1 beat my choice Philosophers Stone 5/2 in the 4.10 Redcar. Fortunately I did the forecast. I backed Liberty Cap 20/1 in the 4.30 Newmarket, on the principle that Gosden's runners often improve for the run. I needed that! Best in Bateleur was gambled for the 4.40 Ayr and won the race at 5/2. Next best Klynch was not wanted today (possibly because of news on Bateleur), but will do better soon. Abbondanza was thrown in for the 4.45 Redcar and duly won at 13/8. I also backed Whispered Times (third) and White Deer, which must have been fourth. Damn! My old favourite King's Sabre finished second at 20/1! Course and distance winner Cill Rialaig 16/1 winner of the 5.00 Ascot! Can't believe I didn't back it, as it was on my list. Watch out for Macarthur, which is now thrown in when wanted. I did back system bet Australia Day each-way at 20/1. Another winner for Gosden with Space War in the 5.05 Newmarket! And his Dhaamer got second too! Ryan Style (-W40) 16/1 winner of the 5.15 Ayr. Top-rated Methaaly ran on late for third, but could have done better. Don't know why second rated River Falcon was backed, as it was useless today! This Nora Looby seems to be riding well lately, with a 100/1 winner today on Crianza in the 5.20 Redcar! When I back horses at those prices they are invariably useless! It just depends whether they are so-called gambling stables or not! Zaif, thrown in for the 5.40 Newmarket decided to come fourth today! How can you back like that? Must win soon, along with Supernoverre and Carnac! When will King's Head (5.45 Ayr) win a race? It's about time, as it is thrown in on old form! Best-in Saucy Girl was one of the favourites, and its stablemate, second best in Oondiri was backed in. With Saucy Girl missing the break (oops!) what do you make of that betting? Unfortunately Oondiri was beaten into second place by an unconsidered horse, Arch Walker, with no form. Best-in Baltimore Jack was asked to come third tonight in the 6.35 Haydock. Can win again now when wanted, as has just got rid of a first place. I was surprised to see system bet and second-rated Hawaana get beaten also, but you never know with Fahey! -W64 is often worth a bet. System bet Grudge 4/1 winner of the 6.50 Lingfield. Colorus is biding its time, but will win soon (not certain to be next time). Only a fourth place for Intrusion in th 7.05 Haydock. I thought the jockey booking might be significant, and perhaps it was intended to go close. A nice cross-the-card double for Jed O'Keeffe with Dubai Celebration (-64)! I was unsure whether to back the well-in Roman Glory (8/1) or the best-in Fault (20/1) in the 7.20 Haydock, and of course I went for the bigger price! Wrong one! I always fall for it! Fault will now probably take a race or two before winning, as it has that dreaded first place at the front of its form. Purple Gallery (-266) 25/1 second! No wonder Hughes came over from the afternoon meeting, having two winners so far this evening!

18th June: Lord's Seat was best in for the 1.50 Musselburgh, but made no effort today. Will be a system bet next time. Another well in is Lady Lube Rye, but may want a shorter trip. Raleigh Key (-46) 5/1 winner. I thought Coolella was going to win at one point, but did not quicken. The two horses with the best form, Mica Mika and Alhoni finished first and second in the 2.10 Redcar, with system bets finishing nowhere. I had a little each-way on Swift Alhaarth (fourth), but I couldn't work out how it would do, given the connection with Jaber Abdulla and Mick Channon's winner. Nice! I got the first two, Memory 15/2 and Margot Did 7/1 in the 2.30 Ascot! I backed Chain Of Events in the 2.45 Redcar, winning at 5/2, but ignored Nicholls' Peaceful Rule (25/1 second). The only two with official ratings again! One that I fancied, Madame Marcievicz, 9/2 winner of the 2.55 Musselburgh. I fancied Buzzword (third) in the 3.05 Ascot, but should have stuck with stable jockey Frankie! System bet Smirfy's Silver 9/2 (second rated) winner of the 3.20 Redcar. Green Passion was thrown in, and disputed the lead for a long way, but dropped back late into fourth. Will win soon! Cold Quest was absolutely thrown in for the 3.35 Redcar, but third was all that was wanted today. Must have been each-way money, as it didn't go below 11/2. Second best Woodsley House was never in the hunt, but is another that must do much better soon. Problem is, you can't go against the betting very often! System bet Gile Na Greine 25/1 second in the 3.50 Ascot ( I got 33/1)! I also backed Music Show, which came through fast but finished only fourth. System bet Indian Skipper missed the break in the 4.00 Redcar, but still won the tace at 5/1. Top-rated Red Cape finished only third. You've done me again, Ruth! Tabaret will be worth a bet soon. Indian Trail was best in for the 4.10 Musselburgh, but disappointed as usual. Fortunately I also backed Rasaman, 11/1 winner! Top-rated Traffic Guard ran well for a long way today, but dropped out tamely after challenging. Must do better next time! Once again the best in ran abysmally in Lucayan Dancer in the 4.35 Musselburgh! What are they up to? All I know is that's it's very frustrating! And yet another in Birkside, thrown in and came second! Ridiculous! Must win next time, hopefully in a bigger race at a better price! Manipulated result? Almost time to give up, because you can't beat these results! I would love to be a fly on the wall for any conversations between people involved with this race! It gets to the point where you have to put the favourite in a forecast to beat the certainty! Official top-rated Mikhail Glinka winner of the 5.00 Ascot. Yet again the two best in (Kings Point and Classic Descent) beaten by one I didn't even consider in the 5.10 Redcar! And yet it was favourite! What do they know that I don't? A furlong out they looked certain to finish first and second! And once again no return because I backed the second to win and the third each-way in a seven horse race! Surely these results are just out to frustrate the likes of me! These amazing results just go on and on! I picked the wrong Wilson runner in Dower Glen in the 5.10 Musselburgh, as it was the best in but Ya Boy Sir won! Their craftiness knows no bounds! I can just imagine them grinning at the likes of me! Second best Reach For The Sky finished fourth, but of course I backed them both each-way! Grrr...! Something (5.35 Ascot) is thrown in for a similar race soon, and will be a system bet next time. Well, guess what! The only horse that I wanted to back in the 5.40 Redcar, Port Ronan, won the race and I missed the bet through watching Ascot! There was a 45p deduction in any case. Sod's Law or what? R Woody (deteriorating form) 12/1 winner of the 5.50 Goodwood. Keep an eye on One Hit Wonder, which finished really fast! Starwatch was best in, and should be worth a bet soon. Top-rated Eastern Gift 16/1 second in the 6.00 Newmarket, with second rated Orpen Wide just pipped into fourth! Sophie Doyle wins again (always pips my horses). I have backed Sacrilege a few times, notably over hurdles! I got Rain Stops Play in third at 8/1 in the 6.10 Ayr. I thought Fiefdom was going to figure, but it must be next time. My old tip, Primo Way, ran much better tonight and obviously retains some ability! Catcher Of Dreams (-060) 22/1 second. A last second bet on Kerchak in the 6.20 Goodwood produced an 8/1 winner! It had perfect symmetrical system type form! Marked Card (6.30 Newmarket) missed the break, made good ground, then packed up. Worth keeping an eye on. Jack O'Lantern was second best in for the 6.40 Ayr, but at the price (7/1) was obviously not wanted. Probably being kept back for a handicap. Brittain's Methayel 14/1 second in the 6.50 Goodwood. One of the few with experience! Didn't even see it there! I fancied a better run from Knockdolian (led much) in the 7.05 Newmarket, but the price was not promising. I am convinced it is much better than its handicap mark, and it should be noted. System bet Daring Dream winner of the 7.15 Ayr. I don't believe my luck! Every time I get second and third! El Dececy and Talk Of Saafend were both far better in than Daring Dream! But when they are not due, they're not due, more's the pity!

17th June: System bet Melodize 9/2 winner of the 2.20 Warwick, and I got the forecast with Loki's Revenge (2/1)! I fancied Excel Bolt in the 2.30 Ascot, finishing third at 7/1, but might have done better if it did not run all alone. Couldn't decide between Bradley's Cape Royal and The Tatling (fourth) in the 2.45 Ripon, so I backed both, with the former winning at 14/1! Gramm was very well in, but hadn't been out for a long time, and may take a race or two. Lucky Art will do better also. I thought best Cote D'Argent was going to lead all the way in the 2.55 Warwick, but it decided to drop out! How annoying! Can win again soon. Second best Divinatore also finished only fifth and can do better. Yemeni Princess (-25) 9/2 winner. Strangely the first three home all had 3lb claimers on them. Should note that for the future! Top-rated Hibaayeb 4/1 winner of the 3.05 Ascot. Stoute's Eldalil is clearly better than its official rating, and Moore's presence on Gallic Star was also a clue.Abbondanza was clear best in for the 3.20 Ripon, but unfortunately I wanted Ace Of Spies for second, but of course that is not going to happen very often! Despite tailing off, Kheskianto must do better in a handicap soon. Libre was best in for the 3.35 Warwick, but may not have got the trip. Must win soon. I also backed system bets Filun (20/1 third) and Corrib (fifth). Bazergan was best in for the 4.00 Ripon, but after a slow start and a brief advance, dropped out again. May not win next time either on the form figures, but keep an eye on it. I thought second best Charlie Cool (Ruth Carr again) would be thereabouts and it won at 13/8. Rosbay and Yorgunnabelucky are two others to note soon. None of my best-in figured in the 4.10 Warwick, although Dickie Le Davoir got close in fourth on the near side (always runs on late, often too late)! It will win one day (Pontefract?), but is becoming very frustrating! Silver Guest, Stargazy and Song Of Praise were three other disappointments. King Of The Moors was best in for the 4.45 Warwick, but finished only third. The winner, Dr Wintringham, appears to be improving on its earlier form. Ermine Grey dropped right out, then ran on again, and will do better shortly. There were no end of well-in horses for the 4.35 Ripon, and most of them probably put each other off! My recent tip, Maneki Neko, 12/1 winner. I was expecting Sadler's Mark to run a better race in the 5.10 Ripon, being out of Sadler's Wells, but it got another fifth place despite apparently going well, and I shall be surprised if it doesn't win a race soon. I probably backed it a race too early! Best in and system bet Grey Boy finished second in the 5.20 Ripon, with system bet Mr Chocolate Drop in third at 33/1. Hilbre Court will be due very soon. Unfortunately I also got fourth with Lunar River! Nuit Sombre, best in for the 5.40 Ripon, led for much of the way, then faded. Can win very soon. Mississipian, which I mentioned recently, finished second at 50/1 with Ruth's Ninth House in third! Flighty Fellow is also due a good run soon. How Crocodile Bay (third) could lose the 5.55 Warwick to any other horse than Lytton is beyond me! Oh, it was Andrew Heffernan again! Is he still a signal not to win? It was thrown in, as was Lytton, but both contrived to run like crabs! I hate this sort of finessing! I'm still trying to work out jockey signals, but they don't always mean the same, obviously. Results like this, which happen so often, make me cringe! These two horses must win again soon, although Lytton will now have a first place at the front of its form, not usually a good sign. For the pundits to say that it was not good enough is rubbish! Well, back to the drawing board! I am sure the other trainers must have some knowledge of their intentions, unless the apprentice jockeys were that bad! The winner, Croeso Cusan, had symmetrical form and the second was a system bet, so I suppose you can't have it both ways, although I would like to! Turbulance was best in for the 6.20 Ffos Las, but decided to run like a donkey and pull up today. Next best in Strong Coffee did not run much better, and third best Quarrytown finished sixth. Keep an eye on all of these soon. System bet Money Trader 20/1 winner of the 6.35 Tipperary! At last one of my system bets wins in Ireland at a good price! Johnston's Stentorian 15/2 beats odds-on Greek Islands in the 6.40 Ripon! I thought for a moment Zarooni was going to have a 1-2! After a couple of good results, it was back to normal! Noble Request unseated rider (jockey dived off) in the 6.50 Ffos Las! Best -in Samarinda finished third in the 7.00 Beverley! Can't believe it! I got the first and second in a forecast in the 6.55 Tipperary, with Hoopy 9/1 and Ballochroy 5/1! Almost got the tricast with Chaussettes (fourth)! Don't know what is up with Hill Of Miller (7.10 Beverley), which keeps threatening and not going through with it! And it keeps dropping in the weights, which I suppose is the object! The same applies to Battle Study (fourth). I feel sure they must know what is supposed to happen before the race takes place! System bet Admiral Breese 15/2 second. If ever I've seen a travesty, it was Armenian Boy in the 7.20 Ffos Las, which was going by far the best, but refused (the jockey that is) to go and win the race! Must win soon, but that's no good when I wasted my money tonight! I had the first two at the furlong pole in the 7.40 Ripon, but both ended up coming nowhere! Bahamian Ballet was one of them, being best in and dropping out, and must do better. Do they ease up on these horses? You don't seem to be able to beat the prices in a lot of races these days, with most horses seemingly already past the post, as if pre-planned! It would be nice to get some value occasionally! Top-rated Andorn 14/1 winner of the 8.00 Ripon! I thought it might win again today! And I got the forecast with They All Laughed (11/2)! It's nice when my ratings work out, especially in four horse races, which often seem pre-ordained! Top-rated (apart from White Shift) Revue Princess 11/1 winner of the 8.10 Leicester! All these Bollin horses seem to win when wanted! Bollin Freddy (9/2) won the 8.30 Beverley. Rowan Lodge (7/1 second) was best in, and Tivers Song disappointed yet again! When will that horse win, if ever? Rowan Lodge is always backed when winning, so watch for the money! I had a small amount on both system bet Mercers Row (14/1 winner) and Melundy (11/1 second) in the 9.00 Beverley, but somebody emailed in that Ravenfield wouldn't be beaten and so I didn't do the forecast. Prat! System bet Chapter And Verse 7/2 second in the 9.10 Leicester. I noted a while ago that bottom weights from top stables were often worth a bet and this applied to the winner Heading To First (6/1) from the Clive Brittain stable. Well, after a frustrating day, I got nearly all my money back on the evening racing, from about three races! It's amazing what you can make from small bets on forecasts and tricasts, and I recommend them, although they can be expensive if they constantly go down.

16th June; I really fancied top-class flat horse Players Please in the 2.10 Worcester, winning at 3/1. I thought Brandy Butter should have done better on the ratings. I was going to back Dr Noverre to beat system bet Roodee Queen in the 2.20 Hamilton, but got distracted by an email! What a shame I missed it! I fancied top-rated Red Jazz in the 2.30 Ascot, just getting pipped into second place by Ryan Moore. Mezaan was disappointing, not picking up. I don't know what they are doing with Lucky General, but no doubt it will run better sometime soon. What on earth was wrong with Culahill (127 rated hurdler) in the 2.45 Worcester? It had to be first or second on the ratings! Makes me furious! System bet Watch Out 8/1 second (but had no chance on paper). I backed Barnstorm in the 2.55 Hamilton, and it led nearly all the way, finishing fourth! What a disappointment! I was counting my money during the commentary, but the 14/1 price was against me. System bet High Resolution 8/1 third. Keep an eye on Sydney Bridge (testing out today), which is well in when wanted. I backed Spacious in the 3.05 Ascot, just getting pipped again by Moore! How annoying! Top-rated Antara third. Top-rated Monsieur did not compete today in the 3.20 Worcester, but will do better very soon. Second-rated Sahara Prince finished third at 33/1, (I got 40/1) and can also win soon (system bet next time). I get very annoyed when McCoy wins on all these short-priced Best winners! Golden Square should also have done better than fourth, but if it had I wouldn't have got the 40/1 place! Why can I never get a forecast? I backed top-rated Belle Noverre 9/2 in the 3.35 Hamilton (I got 13/2), but Johnston's Damietta set up a clear lead and finished fourth again! Have they got something against my each-way selections? Grr...! Give me some value please! Casino Night was second best in, but would not get in the shakeup. At one point it sounded as if I would get the tricast! Incidentally I backed Tia Juana (second) last time, and today it got in the way! Damn! Twice Over just beaten by Byword (same owner) in the 3.50 Ascot. Why is it when I am just about to do a correct forecast, the race is always just off? What happened to Mawatheeq? Top-rated Bally Sands should have won the 4.00 Worcester, and I had no idea about the winner, Genuine Pearl! Whatever I back, I get no value at present, as the others I backed did not win at short prices! Frustrating game this! Hurrah! Artsu beat Rothesay Dancer in the 4.10 Hamilton! On my ratings, I had Mr Rooney and Angelofthenorth both better in, but did not expect them to try too hard today. However, they can do better in a nearby handicap. None of my top-rated figured in the 4.25 Ascot. I could have sworn that Docofthebay would have been thereabouts today. That one, Spectait and Smokey Oakey must do better soon. These big races are almost impossible to pick. I don't know what is the matter with Osolomio, which is not as bad as they are making out! Knight Legend is also better than fourth and can win soon. It seems to be impossible to get any value on well handicapped horses and I'm getting fed up with it! My two picks above both led, apparently made mistakes, one pulled up and the other finished fourth. What can you do? Now a third in a six horse race in the 4.45 Hamilton with Distant Sun! It gets worse! I feel as though I'm being set up in every race! I had Meow and Ladies Are Forever in the 5.00 Ascot, finishing second and third! I can't believe it! Second, third and fourth in the 5.10 Worcester, with the wretched Dakota Boy (40/1) beating all of them! I thought I was certain of the tricast at one point! I also thought Ton-Chee was going to win (went well clear), but finished only third. Swinbank's Line Of Duty (-46) 12/1 winner of the 5.20 Hamilton! System bet Timepiece 5/1 winner of the 5.35 Ascot from system bet Blue Maiden 8/1! Wish I'd done the forecast! Tim Vaughan's Kilmore West pipped me in the 5.40 Windsor, so it's so close, but no cigar! Thrown in Regent's Secret managed to get pipped on the line by system bet Sovento in the 5.50 Hamilton. Why do they always get beaten so narrowly? Oh, it is so painful! But it was a -406, so I suppose a place was more likely than a win. Media Stars will also do better. Shall I give up on Apex, which was thrown in for the 6.10 Kempton? Probably not, as they often go unplaced after a fourth place. I backed best-in Paddleyourowncanoe in the 6.15 Worcester, and it tailed off, then finished like a rocket for second at 28/1! Strangely I also fancied the winner, Benmadigan, but didn't back it! Coup De Tabac should be worth a bet soon. System bet Derecho was very disappointing in the 6.40 Kempton, and should be noted, probably for a handicap. Top-rated Suzie Quw 9/2 winner of the 6.50 Ripon. I've been holding on by my fingertips today, with my last bet getting me out of trouble five or six times! Still, it's nice not to have to make another deposit. Keep them waiting! System bet Mawaddah 7/2 winner of the 7.10 Kempton, with the odds-on favourite second and system bet Whippers Love third (7 horse race). Novalist (-4U) 100/1 third in the 7.20 Ripon! Such figures are often worth a small tickle. Another winner for Hannon and Hughes with Sceal Nua in the 7.40 Kempton. Hurricane Spirit (8.10 Kempton) must be due soon after tonight's run out of the places. Veiled Applause (8.20 Ripon) is another to consider seriously next time out.

15th June: I got the first winner with Hayley Cropper 11/4 in the 2.15 Thirsk. That makes a change! I thought briefly that I was going to get the forecast with Goldikova and Zacinto in the 2.30 Ascot, the latter eventually finishing fourth. I had Borderlescott 16/1 each-way in the 3.05 Ascot, and I suppose the form previously was upheld with Equiano in front of it again. What I would like to know is why Hurlingham is suddenly a short price in the 3.25 Thirsk, when I have backed it countless times previously and it has been useless? This sort of thing just proves that the horse has had no intention of winning previously! Well, it didn't win today either (fourth), possibly because of the presence of the equally well in Kames Park. Both should do better soon. My third rated, Bergonzi, was also unplaced! Amazing! Bit of a drag so far, with long intervals between races! On other days you can hardly breathe, with races going off every five minutes. A happy medium would be nice! Well, I managed to get the forecast with the Hannon 1-2 of Canford Cliffs and Dick Turpin at 11/4 and 5/1. I could see it setting up for that into the last couple of furlongs! Best in Nacho Libre (4.05 Thirsk) never front-runs normally, but did so today and finished fifth! He's A Humbug is still due, but was closely matched with Nacho Libre today and both can win soon. They don't like competition, these stables! Clumber Place is also very well in when wanted. I looked at Silly Gilly (16/1 winner), which was due, but concentrated on the above three - silly me! Silly Gilly is by Mull Of Kintyre, and is probably much better even than it has shown to date. It is often best to concentrate on the others when this situation arises, because they often won't take the chance on the best in ones. Darcey (system type form) 25/1 second and Spavento (-36) third. Crocodile Bay, best in for the 4.40 Thirsk, decided to finish fourth today! Wonder why they do that, just to get the price up? Next best in, Cool Art, also failed to sparkle, but will be a system bet next time. My old friend Ruth was gambling again on Imperial Djay, winning at 15/8! Strikes me that when that happens, they must know that the best horses won't be there! There is no other explanation. System bet Could It Be Magic 9/2 third. Think I'll give up backing the top-rated, but, as soon as I do, in they come! Top-class hurdler Junior (David Pipe) 17/2 winner of the 5.00 Ascot! I said recently that Pipe's and King's on the flat are worth following. Enjoy The Moment was one of the best in, but the money did not speak for it today. I also got the dead-heat fourth Ghimaar, but not much value in that! Carcinetto (5.15 Thirsk) was up with the pace for a long way, then faded. I am convinced that it will make a better effort very soon (-200005 are not promising figures). Arabian Mirage (sys+1) 8/1 second. Avonrose is also due shortly. Best in Guto was not wanted today (as noted previously -200606 is not encouraging), but I also backed 3/1 winner Mey Blossom. I thought Bertie Southstreet had got fourth, but just beaten by Sands Crooner. Russian Rocket must try soon. System bet Dispol Kylie 7/1 second. I got the second and third in the 6.15 Newton Abbot, but I could have sworn that the jockey pulled the horse back at the final hurdle on Coeur De Lionne! I was just about to back best-in Cornus (see 2nd June) for the 6.20 Thirsk when the race went off, and it won at 28/1! Damn! What a couple of disasters! Turnkey, Red Cape (third) and Hamoody (fourth) are all due soon. The best in horses finished fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh in the 6.45 Newton Abboy, including Captain Marlon, which must try soon, and My Pal Val. Killing Me Softly (7.45) has been thrown in for some time, and Young Tot is another that is due a good run. Isn't it strange that they either pull up or finish seventh (=0) most of the time when they are not due? I keep thinking every time these horses run that today is the day, but they certainly take their time! Raslan (7.15) has been messing around for some time, and is certainly due a good run. Watch for any price below 12/1. Rash Moment (8.15) is another horse that is worth a bet next time, as its running recently has been too bad to be true. Also keep an eye on Here To Eternity, which is very well handicapped now. Both of these were pulled up today. Must be strange for a jockey to think "this is one I've got to ride like a dervish and then pull up"! Well, I hope I have given you a few to keep on your short list soon. Unfortunately the prices are often much shorter when they are out to perform!

14th June: Alphacino looked certain to get placed in the 2.30 Sedgefield, then allowed itself to get pipped on the line for third! It was going as well as anything, but instructions were probably not to get placed! How annoying, especially as I had the first two the wrong way around! You can't boil an egg by these horses, with Fremen running like a dog in third in the 2.45 Carlisle! I thought Cobo Bay would win, but didn't expect Fremen to run like that! Pathetic! How much on the exacta (£12.84)? If I'd known that I would have done the correct forecast (£15.84)! I thought system bet Kembla Grange had a good chance at the weights, finishing third at 22/1. I also backed the first two, Stand Clear and Cailin Na Ri, but didn't get the forecast! Best in Classic Descent finished second in the 3.15 Carlisel, but should have won at the weights! By Command continues to disappoint, and keep an eye on Guertino, which is very well in now (system bet next time). I fancied Mister Fizzbomb in the 3.30 Southwell, and it ran a good race in third at 10/1. Unfortunately it was beaten by my recent tip on the flat, Planetarium! Monfils Monfils is very well in when wanted. Wood Fair and Tartufo Dulce were my best in for the 3.45 Carlisle, the latter finishing fourth, but there was no money for either of them today. Hannon's Tarita can also do better. Soubriquet, top-rated with its claim, 18/1 winner of the 4.00 Sedgefield with second-rated Nile Moon in third. Karelian (pulled up) will do better. I thought today was the day for Steel City Boy, but that one and Not My Choice were on the wrong side of the track today. Both can do better soon. I can't understand how the first two finished six lengths clear! I don't know when the thrown-in Tournedos is going to start competing, but it can't be long now, and no doubt there will be money for it. Crofton Arch (not the horse itself) decided to throw in a bad one today, but was still by far best in of the field for the 4.30 Sedgefield. Second best in King's Majesty (10/1) ran on for third when it was too late, and will do better. Supercast was best in for the 4.45 Carlisle, but dropped out quickly. Can win soon. I also backed second-best Bajan Pride (7/2 winner) and third Dean Iarracht. Kayf Commander should have done better in the 5.00 Sedgefield, and as usual I managed to back the second and third in Film Festival and Midnite Blews, but not the winner! Top-rated Wotatomboy was disappointing after showing up well for most of the way in the 5.15 Carlisle. Must win again soon, possibly on the all weather. Lake Chini (fourth) can also win again soon. I thought I had a certain tricast, but nothing is certain at this game! Thinking that Elkhorn was a certainty in the 5.45 Carlisle was wishful thinking! How can you deal with this sort of nonsense? Even second best Bentley finished fourth. It gets ever more perplexing and suspect! Red China Blues, the winner, at least had a reasonable rating last season, which was the only redeeming feature. Top-rated City Stable 100/30 winner of the 6.25 Warwick. I thought Mossman Gorge was going to take a hand in the finish, but it dropped out tamely. I am sure it was eased off so as not to finish in the places. Must win soon. Drat, I backed the second, Sand Repeal, last time! Wusuul was another 50/1 shot which will do better soon. Should have known that Hannon and Channon would finish first and second in the 6.40 Windsor, but I went for Johnny Hancocks, which was right there, then faded. Well, I managed to get the winner in the 6.55 Warwick with Electric Waves, 6/4. Should have gone with Eddie Freemantle's Aurivorous each-way at 20/1? I thought best in Bomber Command was too big a price at 10/1 in the 7.10 Windsor, and I was right. My second choice, Calahonda, finished second, but it's a bit annoying when you can't get the winner out of the top three rated (including Hazzard County)! The winner, Ela Gorrie Mou, has apparently improved with every run, but does that mean it was better than this before it started (a common trick used)? These horses that are top class and then apparently work their way up through the ranks are so difficult to detect until you think "How could that win that race?" Then you start to work it out. It's all very well, but, in my opinion, it's not honourable practice, even if it is good fun for the owners! System bet Red Scintillo 11/2 winner of the 7.25 Warwick. I backed Itsthursdayalready, which was going well, and will be worth a bet soon (as usual assymetrical form if often not a good bet). A Pocketful Of Rye is also taking its time. When will the thrown in Viking Spirit make an effort? Obviously not tonight, although it was mentioned as making progress. Memphis Man also made no effort tonight, despite being a recent and course and distance winner. It is often so difficult to weed out the triers from the non-triers in these races (no, I will rephrase that - those who are going to be competitive from those who are not going to be competitive). I thought Honimiere was going to win the 7.55 Warwick and it should at least have been placed on the ratings. Strikes me money is needed for that one to be competitive. System bet Cassique Lady 18/1 second, despite being well down the ratings! Why is it that, if there are two or three horses next in the betting after the short-priced favourite, the one I pick is always the wrong one? Gets a bit annoying after a while! There is a school of thought that says that, if a short-priced favourite goes down, they all share in the price on the winner. Of course, I don't subscribe to that, it would be too ridiculous! What on earth has happened to Polish Power, which was thrown in for the 8.25 Warwick?Must do better soon, along with Jenny Soba, which missed the break today. Oh, it was my old mate, Andrew Heffernan, again! I almost give up on some of the ridiculous things which happen to my choices in these races. I suppose the 8/1 winner, Harare, did have system type form. Am I sounding bitter again today? Well, I am a bit fed up with the lack of value in anything I pick! Onyx Of Arabia (system type form) 25/1 winner of the 8.40 Windsor with Big Wave Bay (-24) 16/1 third. Just shows that the price does not mean anything sometimes! If I pick a horse like that recently, it is useless! Best in Dingaan and Buxton both failed to show in the 8.55 Warwick. Can you see why I get annoyed? Just a few of these coming in would be fair reward! System bet Mr Rainbow 15/8 winner, but should not have been able to give the weight if the above two had competed. Mixing was best in for the 9.05 Windsor, but was out of the handicap and will do better in a lesser race. Choral Festival was next best in, finishing third. I expected a better run from Kashmina, and that will also do better, perhaps over 10 furlongs. I see that Baizically is now running over hurdles in Ireland. Worth keeping an eye on. Well, not a good day from a ratings point of view, but I usually find that another day goes a lot better, so here's hoping!

13th June: My two top-rated for the 2.00 Salisbury were Ouster and Wiggy Smith, finishing first and third. I also fancied Dove Cottage, which led for a long way and could be worth a bet soon. Macdillon was my top-rated for the 2.30 Salisbury, but not wanted today (ran on late). System bet Russian Spirit 6/1 third. Tampa Boy (second 15/2) was best in for the 2.40 Salisbury, but I could not predict how well De Luainn Gorm would run in the lead! It had gone up a lot in the weights, but still hosed in! Raptor was clear best in for the 2.55 Doncaster, and was a good each-way third at 40/1 (but could have won easily if wanted). Next best in Pearly Wey ran on late and can also win soon. King Of The Moors is another that can win when wanted. Tot Of The Knar was clear best in for the 3.15 Stratford, but finished only fourth! That was a joke! Must win soon, along with Ginolad, also very well in. System bet Baby Strange was one of my top-rated for the 3.30 Doncaster, winning at 33/1! Joseph Henry was another, finishing fourth. I am still waiting for Excusez Moi, which missed the break again today! No doubt there will be money for it when it is wanted. Bond City is still well in, and could pop up at a good price again soon. My top-rated Sir Gerry, another winner at 17/2 in the 3.40 Salisbury (I got 12/1)! I almost got the forecast with Angel's Pursuit (third). Stumped was thrown in again for the 3.50 Stratford, but fourth seemed to be all that was wanted today. My second choice, Dishdasha, won at 8/1. Three winners in a row! Three top-rated horses did not perform in the 4.05 Doncaster: The Starboard Bow, Marafong and Dance For Julie (fifth). All three are probably being held up for a handicap tilt soon. System bet Heaven Forbid 17/2 second. Hannon's Jaahiz 12/1 second in the 4.15 Salisbury. I backed Channon's horse with it, considering Channon's connection with Jaber Abdullah (owner of the second). The three I picked for the 4.25 Stratford were useless: Cool Cliche, Arctic Ghost and River Beauty, in fact two of them were pulled up and one finished last! How can you cater for that? It must be deliberate! Watch all three soon. Top-rated Steel Free 10/1 second in the 4.45 Salisbury. Perfect Friend must be worth a bet soon. Red Wine let me down in the 5.05 Doncaster, and should do better. I thought Favours Brave was going to be in the shakeup, along with the thrown-in Spume, but both dropped out. Also keep an eye on Tinseltown, formerly trained by Aidan O'Brien. I thought I was going to get the forecast with Orsett Lad 14/1 and Singingintherain 20/1 in the 5.20 Salisbury, but damn! Rock The Stars came to beat both of them! Orsett Lad must win soon. Rock The Stars must win again if this form is true. Wish I'd put it in for the tricast! Bill Turner had an 80/1 winner in Vicpol in the 5.30 Stratford. Couldn't pick that one! I only saw that Greenbelt Star was by Generous after the 6.00 Rosscommon! A Fahey benefit with the first and second jockeys! Point The Toes (-440) 18/1 second.

12th June: I backed system bet New Christmas 15/2 and system type bet Jutland 17/2 in the 1.45 Sandown, finishing second and third. If I could have picked the winner, I would have had the tricast! I backed Siberian Tiger in the 2.05 York, finishing fourth at 16/1. Southern Regent was best in, and should win a lesser race soon. Top-rated Rakaan 15/2 winner of the 2.20 Sandown. Prize Fighter was best in for the 2.30 Hexham, made a burst on the outside, then dropped out. Can win soon, surprised it did not win today! My other choice, Bollin Ruth, finished second at 12/1. Moody Tunes and General Elliott were best in for the 2.40 York, but neither went through with their effort. System bet Dream Lodge, tipped by me recently, finished third at 14/1. A good effort off top weight! Best in Masai Moon took a clear lead in the 2.55 Sandown, then dropped out again. Must win soon. Huzzah, which I also backed, finished fourth in a 15 horse race. Typical! Clear top-rated Ormus 8/1 winner of the 3.05 Hexham! None of my fancies for the 3.15 York ran up to my expectations, including Lowdown, Take Ten and Nosedive (sixth). All will do better. Le Corvee decided not to win today in the 3.20 Bath, but is still thrown in when wanted, Second rated Touch Of Style won the race at 9/2. Keep an eye on Pipers Song, which travelled well but did not find. Red Avalanche and Duplicity were two in the 3.35 Sandown which did not perform to my expectations and should do better. Clear top-rated Fair Spin 9/2 winner of the 3.40 Hexham. Gave me a nice double with Ormus (above)! I thought those two couldn't be beaten! Mingun Bell was reported to be making good progress in the 3.50 York, but never figured in the finish. Will be worth a bet soon. No doubt Rebel Soldier won nicely for the sponsors! I expect the Queen was told that Banks And Braes would win the 3.55 Bath, and nobody argued! Zowington was best in for the 4.05 Sandown, but the price was not promising. Second rated Steelcut, however, won well for me at 16/1! It sounded as if The Green Hat was going to win at last in the 4.05 Hexham, but it apparently did not last out, finishing fourth. I feel sure this was an exploratory run and that it will win soon. I also did system bet Tully Hill, which won the race. Brandywell Boy was best in for the 4.30 Bath, winning at 6/1. Colorus was not wanted in the betting, and Desperate Dan was withdrawn. Colorus and Whiskey Junction should be noted soon. I wanted Direct Answer to beat Cecil's Channel Squadron in the 4.40 Sandown, but the reverse happened! How annoying. Always reverse your forecasts! I did gte the forecast with Zakiy 9/2 and Soviet Secret 2/1 in the 4.55 York! Barodine and Flying Squad were the best two in for the 5.05 Bath, but neither was really wanted today. Third best in Lilly Blue has disappointed for a while and must do better shortly. System bet Cyril The Squirrel 14/1 winner with Under Fire (sys+2) 33/1 second! Just shows that you don't always have to back the top-rated! Hindu Kush was a non-runner in the 5.15 Sandown, but should do well when next out. Wyatt Earp, Green Park and Protector were best in for the 5.25 York, but none figured, thank fgoodness, as I did not back in the race! All can do better. There's almost always one to beat my forecasts, and in the 5.35 Bath it was Seasonal Cross, as I backed Pastello and Second To Nun (second and third). Signora Frasi is thrown in when wanted, but was held up pulling fiercely today. Must win again soon. I backed system bet Never Can Stop (7/1) each-way in the 5.50 Lingfield, which finished like a rocket on the rail for second. Should have known that Channon's usually win when favourite! I backed Flowing Cape 8/1 and Lodi 10/1 in the 6.00 Leicester, finishing first and third. Wish I had put in Seasider, which I also fancied! San Antonio started quickly, then dropped right out. Wondered why it was 25/1! What are they doing with Don Pele? Thrown in today and a system bet, it made no effort whatsoever! Must win next time out! System bet Bob's Dreamflight finished second at 10/1. I looked at Dr Hilary (28/1 winner), but didn't like the shape of its form figures or the price! Funnily enough, 60 was also its last winning mark! System bet Ejeed 13/2 third. Briannsta and Grey Boy were best in for the 6.50 Lingfield, but must have been afraid of each other! I don't know, some races I get absolutely nothing, and unexpected ones come in! There's no explanation except that the others didn't try! It's enfuriating sometimes! Prime Circle (system type form) 10/1 winner with Ganache (-306) 20/1 third. Do they ask the connections of the best in horses if they are competing? Best in Scamperdale held on to win the 7.00 Leicester at 8/1, but I wanted Orpen Wide to finish in the places too! I can never pick that horse! I thought West End Lad was at least going to get placed, but it packed up very quickly! It's annoying as I backed the second, Visions of Johanna, last time out! System bet Welsh Anthem 20/1 third. Wish I'd done a Lucky 63 on my winners today, but I'm bound to have picked the wrong ones! System bet Cinnin Oir 9/1 winner of the 7.10 Limerick. Most of the ones I fancied in the 7.20 Lingfield did not show again, apart from Zero Cool, which was absolutely cantering but finished only third! They had no right to beat it at the weights either, which makes it a rather strange result. Vinces is also far better than it showed tonight. Well, I'm off now, as I can't miss the football!

11th June Sadlers Star was best in for the 2.00 Market Rasen, but finished fifth. I suppose they are setting it up for a handicap win at some point. Done by Mr Hannon again, with his Sweet Cecily getting up to beat Bunce into third place in the 2.10 Sandown. Did Hughes ride out Bunce to its best? I backed Tilliemint each-way in the 2.20 York, just getting pipped into fourth after blasting away early. Should have looked Fahey's Mayson! Galley Slave was best in for the 2.30 Market Rasen, but is not one to trust, and finished fourth! Typical for me! The winner, Choctaw Nation 16/1, was by Sadlers Wells, which I didn't see until afterwards! System bet Pherousa 12/1 second in the 2.40 Sandown, with top-rated Danzoe 7/1 third. The latter should win soon, but they are taking their time! It Was Only A Kiss should be worth a bet soon, possibly next time. Too many closely handicapped horses in the 2.50 York meant that most of them did not compete, including Dabbers Ridge and Kinsya, which actually finished fifth in a bunch finish. best rated Blue Spinnaker did manage to finish third at 7/1. System bet Kindest 9/1 winner. Best in Viper (second) did not front-run today in the 3.00 Market Rasen, and I have my doubts if it was intended to win today. Springfield Raki ran in snatches, and will also do better. I backed Ecliptic to beat Jamhoori in the 3.15 Sandown, the latter finishing third, although the probable winner unseated Dettori. Unfortunately the second which beat mine was 100/1! Bogside Theatre was best in for the 3.25 York, and will be worth a bet soon (system next time). Best in and system bet Black Jacari 16/1 winner of the 3.35 Market Rasen. I have always backed Mister Benedictine recently, but missed it for the forecast today! System bet First Cat 8/1 third in the 3.50 York. Fahey's first time out Sweet Cheeks 12/1 winner of the 4.00 York. I couldn't believe the price on that one! Indian Pipe Dream and Sycho Fred (third) were best in for the 4.10 Market Rasen, the former never competing. Will do better next time. Shrewd Investor should also have done better, but is very inconsistent, like many other horses. I fancied Kaolak (third 33/1) to return to form in the 4.25 York, but I wanted it with top-rated Jo'burg! System bet Hotham 18/1 winner of the 4.25 York. Favourite Girl (second) was best in with Atlantic Story, the latter dropping out after leading. Adjami, best in for the 4.45 Market Rasen, fell, leaving third rated Strobe 12/1 to beat second-rated Marlborough Sound! System bet Ice Viking 20/1 second in the 4.55 Sandown. The first horse I wrote down, Tropical Bachelor, 11/2 winner of the 5.05 York. System bet Hunters Belt finished second at 20/1! I also backed Ahmedy, which finished fourth. I thought that Up And Away would at least have got placed in the 5.15 Market Rasen, but of course it finished fourth! One of my favourite trainers, Sue Smith, got the second with Fill The Power 16/1! The things I do! I backed top-rated Topflight Wildbird and Entertain Me for the forecast.Topflight Wildbird unseated rider, and Entertain Me won at 22/1! Topflight Wildbird must win soon. System bet Page One Two Nine 9/2 winner of the 6.10 Wexford. Qadar (6.20 Navan) is just messing around and must win soon. I was going to back Joyously 11/1 in the 6.25 Chepstow, then thought it wouldn't win at that price! And it was Andrew Heffernan, who never seems to do me any favours! I hate four horse races! Misty Dancer was by far best in for the 6.35 Aintree, but did not attempt to win! It is enfuriating! Watch for it in a bigger race soon. I backed Mazaris in the 6.50 Navan, led all the way until the final furlong, then dropped out! Grr...! Can win soon, along with Fantoche in Ireland. Best in Joe Packet 5/1 winner of the 6.55 Chepstow, with system type bet Bathwick Xaara 50/1 third. Downing Street was best in for the 7.05 Aintree, but apparently had no intention of winning. Must do better next time. I also backed Corkage (third) and Very Cool, which I thought was going to win for a while. Markington always seems to win easily when wanted. I knew that, but didn't back it! Beaver Patrol was thrown in for the 7.20 Goodwood, but as usual when placed last time, dropped out tamely. Must win when wanted, probably next time! Noble Jack was next best in, but finished about fifth and will do better. Best in Fault came nowhere in the 7.30 Chepstow, and must do better. Also keep an eye on Prince Rossi soon. Abu Dubai with system type form finished third at 25/1. Again there were too many closely handicapped horses, which meant that several didn't risk it. The two outsiders came first and second in the 7.40 Aintree! Smack That (-306F) 14/1 winner! You can't cater for that! The top two must have run well below form, but the returns must have been good! The Last Stand has been running below form for a long time in Ireland, and it's about time it started performing! Make a note of Hidden Glory and Blakey's Boy from the 7.55 Goodwood, as both threatened to win during the race. I wondered whether Giant Slalom would win in the 8.25 Navan with figures of -46, but there was money for it and I had to back it because it is so well handicapped. Ah well, next time again! I thought it was about time that Hannon had a winner (he's gone about ten races today) so Rio Mist did the trick at 7/1 in the 8.30 Goodwood. Ocean Transit was best in for the 8.40 Goodwood, finishing third at 16/1, but could have done better. The same applies to Ermine Grey, which is due very soon now. I got a good result with Heron Bay and Phoenix Flight in the 8.50 Aintree! At last a good winner with top-rated and system bet (and my tip of several occasions) Kerrys Requiem 12/1 (I got 16/1) in the 9.00 Goodwood! Perfect Flight (system type form) 33/1 second. Pusey Street Lady is due a good run very soon. Graylyn Ruby was best in for the 9.10 Chepstow, but the saddle slipped and it could only finish third! Great ride from Luke Morris! Why don't they make sure the saddle is secure, as it would probably have won!

10th June: I backed system bet Warning Song in the 2.30 Newbury, and there was no money for it, and no mention in the race, until right at the end it was a staying on fifth! How annoying! Lucky Leigh was clear best in for the 2.40 Yarmouth, but faded right out after contesting. All I can assume is that it will win when a system bet next time. I also backed second best Requisite, which won at 9/4. I wasn't expecting Fazbee to win with an outstanding first place on the front of its form, and it finished third. Memphis Man (very short in the tissue betting) was my top-rated including claim for the 2.50 Yarmouth, with Bermondsey Bob just next along with Charles Darwin. Memphis Man had to be trying at that price on its form figures, so I backed it. The first two came first and second, and Charles Darwin will run better again next time. Keep an eye on Steel City Boy soon. System bet Eleanora Duse 11/4 winner of the 3.05 Newbury. Lady Darshaan was disappointing in fourth, but her recent form figures suggested that. Tupelo to beat Arctic Rose again in the 3.15 Yarmouth was my choice, and it worked out like that. Despite winning two races, Dunaskin was still thrown in for the 3.25 Nottingham, but the long price was suspicious and the result (fourth) confirmed that. Second best Slip was also disappointing, along with third best Cote D'Argent. These three contested the places for a long way too. A very strange race, with horses with little chance against these being backed and coming in! Not sure what to say about this race other than that I smell a rat! I suppose Outland was a kind of system bet with system bet Lastroseofsummer 12/1 third. I thought Abhar was going to win the 3.50 Yarmouth, eventually dropping back into fourth place. It was best in with the claim, so a bit disappointing and will do better. Ana Moutabahi was another that should have figured, so worth watching. I did get the third Charpoy Cobra (system type form) at 33/1. I think Subtefuge could have done better in the 4.00 Yarmouth, but I am not sure if the 7lb claimer was a help or a hindrance. These claims often indicate that they are not winning today! System bet and top-rated Miss Miracle 13/2 third in the 4.15 Newbury. The only horses with any form finished first, second and third! You can never tell in these races. Sometimes well-backed newcomers win, other times they are hopeless! System bet Uncle Keef 6/1 winner of the 4.25 Yarmouth. I also backed second Hassadin, but din't get the forecast! Disappointment of the race was top-rated Three Boars, which can win again soon. Best in Robust Wish was too far back in the 4.50 Newbury, and only ran on for fifth place when it was too late! I dislike that sort of run intensely! Admire The View was another well-in horse that should be noted soon and Takajan will do better. Only Uphold (winner) of the horses I wrote down for the 5.10 Yarmouth actually did anything! How can you explain the run of favourite Mushreq, which never got into the race? Naughty, naughty! I expected better runs from Miniyamba and system bet Royal Etiquette in the 5.20 Newbury, and my other choice, Fantastic Cuix (third) only made a real effort when it was too late! I thought outsider Denton Ryal was going to get into the places in the 5.30 Yarmouth, but I was watching the wrong horse apparently, as it was unplaced. Should do better shortly. I couldn't pick any of the first three, as they had obviously been hiding their lights under a bushel. That's the imponderable about race form! I backed My Sister at a big price in the 5.40 Yarmouth and, guess what? After being there all the way it got pipped into fourth place. It surely cannot be a coincidence that this happens so often to big-priced runners!That one and Faith Jicaro can do better, but it's annoying when they don't perform on the day! And it happened again in the 5.50 Newbury, with best in Prince Golan finishing fast in fourth! They've got this down to a fine art, but it's damned frustrating! Others to note: Hatch A Plan, Lucayan Dancer and Daniel Thomas should both have done better. I've been backing that Bavarica, and, on the day I thought it couldn't win, it won! Absolutely marvellous! Two horses that were very well in for the 6.10 Nottingham, Punta Galera and system bet Nesno (going well in second most of the way), failed to perform again! What was even more annoying was that third best Jenny Soba finished only fourth, so no return at all! What a frustrating set of results! All the above and Tres Froide are much better than they showed today. Let's hope it's better over the jumps tonight or I shall feel like giving up! System bet Kanad 14/1 second in the 6.30 Fontwell,. I backed it in a forecast with the 3/1 winner, Nintytwo Team, which worked out quite nicely! Hibiki was clear best in, but its recent form figures were not impressive and it finished behind. Top two rated Sahrati and Benedict Spirit 15/8 first and 7/2 second in the 6.40 Uttoxeter! I feel better already! Fortunately I couldn't get my bet on in the 6.50 Haydock, because on paper Maslak was a certainty, but somebody decided otherwise. That one and Magnitude will probably win in bigger races, but they seem determined that they are not going to win until wanted! I must say they throw a damned good smokescreen over the real form! It is a better evening! Top-rated Bold Policy 11/2 winner of the 7.10 Uttoxeter! I am actually much more comfortable with jumps racing, as it appears much more clear-cut! I should have done the forecast with the favourite and Falkland Flyer in the 7.20 Haydock, as it would clearly have paid better than an each-way on the second. The other horse with placed form, Fred Willetts, finished third at 33/1. Shall I give up on the thrown in Space Cowboy, or give it another chance? That horse has cost me a fortune over recent months, but must win when wanted! Stop The Show was best in for the 7.40 Uttoxeter, but did not deliver. The shortness in the betting must be due to backing from form students like me, because it was clearly not stable money! Fortunately I also backed the winner, Petroupetrov, with system bet Our Jim second. Mokum and What A Scientist will be due soon. Supermassive Muse was well in for the 7.50 Haydock, but was not wanted tonight. Can win soon. System bet Lucky Numbers 4/1 winner. Garstang is also due very soon. I thought Synthe Davis would beat Quo Video at the weights, but just got pipped in the 8.00 Fontwell! I am convinced mine was going and jumping better. Zafar was best in for the 8.10 Uttoxeter, but decided to come fourth tonight, leaving my old mate McCoy to win on Mhilu! From the betting other people thought it should have done better too! The second and third in the 8.15 Clonmel, Surenaga and Deputy Consort, both 14/1 had very similar system type form. Johhny Gonzalez and Peplum are due soon. I hate it when well-in horses are allowed to skulk at the back and never get into the race, but I suppose it's all part of the plan! System bet Fleeting Echo 16/1 third in the 8.20 Haydock. Swordsman (14/1 third) was best in for the 8.30 Fontwell, but I also backed the winner, Cold Mountain at 14/1! The two best in for the 8.50 Haydock, Full Victory and Desert Dreamer, did not perform tonight, although I noticed Desert Dreamer (66/1) making stealthy progress into about fifth place before easing off. Both of those are worth a bet soon. System bet Happy Anniversary finished second. Open Range was clear best in for the 9.00 Fontwell, but even when the favourite fell, it still only got fourth place! Must have been under orders not to get placed! They make me annoyed when I can see what is happening! I thought Mujamead and Nobel were certain to finish first and second in the 9.10 Uttoxeter, but one finished fourth and the other one dropped out! Both can win soon, but were obviously afraid of each other tonight, allowing McCoy to win again! Just shows that you can never be sure of the agenda being followed! Do they let these horses win or are they that good, as they haven't shown much before! I would have backed Three Ships (sys+1), 25/1 third, but it was about sixth best on my ratings!

9th June: I quite missed giving my selections yesterday (you probably didn't miss them!), but there a few today that I can't resist, so here goes: Divine Spirit (2.30 Bev) (unplaced), King's Sabre (2.40 Yar) (won 11/2), Classic Descent (3.00 Bev) (fourth), Greystoke Prince (3.10 Yar) (unplaced), Coole Dodger (3.30 Bev) (unplaced), Loyal Knight (3.40 Yar), Vhujon (4.10 Yar), Boo (4.20 Hay), Bell's Ocean (5.10 Yar), Fathey (5.40 Yar). Posted at 1.10 p.m.

I liked the form figures of Muse To Use (-266) in the 2.00 Beverley, but it just got touched off for third place at 40/1. Kansai Spirit should have done better off its rating in the 2.20 Haydock, and seemed to be going well until a couple of furlongs out. What are they doing with Pergamon, which was very well rated, but started at 100/1? Probably holding it up for a handicap campaign later. Divine Spirit (above) missed the break and was never sighted, as did best-in Tournedos, which I didn't trust at the price anyway. I had a little saviour on Azygous, which finished second at 25/1. My first winner with King's Sabre (above) 11/2! Summer's Target opened very short, but drifted right out. Can get competitive very soon now. Michael Bell's Sweetie Time won the 2.50 Haydock at 11/1. His runners are worth noting often second time out. Classic Descent (above) finished fourth in the 3.00 Yarmouth and never threatened to win. I also backed my top-rated, Feifdom, which was suspiciously long in the betting (can win soon, possibly next time), and third rated Polish World, which led all the way at 10/1. Greystoke Prince (above) ran in front for a while, but dropped out, no doubt getting rid of the errant second place, which is often a good pointer in my system. I also backed Resplendent Nova, which was very well in, but hopeless, and should win next time. System bet Many Welcomes third, and third best in Bold Diktator second. Ghostwing and Below Zero were my two best in for the 3.20 Doncaster, but they were the two outsiders, which was not promising. Both can do better again soon. Coole Dodger (above) ran through on the rail into second place, then dropped back to fifth at the end. It showed enough to suggest that it can win soon. My next best, Rub Of The Relic, finished fourth! That can also win again. Royal Composer is also very well in when wanted (no money today). Loyal Knight (above) ran into third at one point, then dropped back to fifth. Can win soon. System bet Eye For The Girls 16/1 third. Also keep an eye on Clerical (fourth) soon. I had second Pintura 20/1, third (Pentominium 7/1) and fourth (Spoken) in the 3.50 Haydock, but not the winner, system bet Dolphin Rock! I must follow my system! Top-rated Fifty Moore was disappointing in the 4.00 Beverley and should do better than that soon. It was run off its feet by Johnston's Rule Breaker. Despite being a system bet and thrown in, Vhujon continues to disappoint. It must win when they want it! Second rated and system bet Angus Newz finished second to the favourite at 10/1. I gave Boo (above) because it was clear best in, but my second best Tanforan, (see my tip 7th April) won the race at 25/1! Boo can now win soon (got in some trouble today). Keep an eye on Lady Pacha, which ran well for a long way in the 4.30 Beverley before dropping back. Could win with a more restrained ride. Always De One and Mnarani should have done better in the 4.40 Yarmouth. I didn't even look at the winner, Fasette! System bet The Galloping Shoe 40/1 third in the 4.55 Haydock! Keep an eye on Moheeb (going well today) and Ordoney soon. Bell's Ocean (above) was up with the pace, then dropped out. It is very well in when wanted, which was not today! Of course I had the fourth in a fifteen horse race with Miss Polly Plum. I am sure they do it deliberately! Well, might as complete the nap hand! Fathey (above) dropped out after contesting the lead, and thrown-in Libre decided to finish third today, but must win soon. They have every angle covered apart from winning when they should! Bear all my selections in mind for the future. Posting selections seems to be a death knell in the main! I thought I was on a winner in Blue Aura in the 6.20 Kempton, but no! Dropped out into fifth. As a general rule I hate front-runners, because they almost always seem to drop out near the finish. Blue Aura is very well in when wanted, as is Tous Les Deux (no money today). Musashi ran on from a mile back to finish fourth, so, if it can break ok, should win soon. System bet Ivestar 40/1 winner of the 6.35 Hamilton! Even then I couldn't pick it unless the others ran below form! Officer Mor was well there before dropping out and can win soon. Don't you just hate it when you see your horse competing, then gradually dropping back? Guest Connections should have been closer. Charlton's Striking Priorite 7/2 winner of the 6.50 Kempton. Should have followed the class stable (I did Comrade Bond third). Protector was best in for the 7.35 Hamilton, but with no recent placings, it finished fourth. Still, it's a start! Kames Park (8.05 Hamilton) has had its little run, but hopefully will compete again before long. My second best, Just Lille, won again at 12/1! Second best Tadalavil will also do better next time. Filun (8.20 Kempton) is worth a look shortly. Mishrif (9.20 Kempton) was backed as if unbeatable, which it was if it ran to form, but it was clearly not stable money! Must win soon.

8th June: I thought I was going to get the forecast in the 2.00 Redcar with Tinkertown and Local Singer, but Bay Of Fires just pipped both of them! I had my previous tip, Andorn, to win and to beat Media Stars in the 2.30 Redcar - nice result! The 2.45 Redcar was unfathomable as to what would try, as there were several horses closely weighted. Most of my choices, including Berbice and King's Caprice did not get into the picture, although I backed Orchard Supreme (second) yesterday and ignored it today! I wonder what the trainers had in mind before the race? My recent tip and top-rated, Just The Tonic 11/1 winner of the 3.00 Redcar with second rated Dazeen 10/1 in second! I got the forecast, but Prescott's Lutine Bell let me down for the tricast! Charlie Cool was still best in for the 3.35 Redcar, but I suppose they thought it was better from a handicapping point of view to come second this time! I looked at the 9/1 winner Kiwi Bay, but did not back it. Hannon's Chica Whopa 6/1 winner of the 3.55 Salisbury. I thought the rider on Hooligan Sean, which I also backed each-way, eased up too much in fourth place. Would you believe that today, when I have given no selections, I have had most of the winners? No, you probably think I am lying, but I am sure many of you appreciate how honest I have always been on here! I never hide my failures, and always tell you what my day has been like. Hill Of Miller and Imperial Warrior were best in for the 5.00 Salisbury, and both showed up for a long way, but perhaps they were too closely handicapped with each other. Both can win soon. I also backed Leitzu, which finished second at 10/1. System bet Mellifera finished fourth. My three top-rated for the 5.15 Redcar eventually brought no reward, although I thought Market Puzzle was going to win at one stage. I am sure it will do better soon, as it seemed to be going better than most! Of the others, Emeralds Spirit missed the break, which messed it up straight away (I am sure some of these are deliberate), and Barastar never showed. Watch them all soon. Zaif was thrown in for the 5.30 Salisbury, but at 20/1 I was not optimistic. However, it did consent to run on for third place at 20/1. I don't know why the winner Strathcal was favourite, but somebody knew more than I did! Despite knowing the form backwards, it is still a puzzle to me how they arrive at their prices and how a horse that has been third, third and fifth is a strong favourite. Once again the best in horses failed to deliver in the 6.00 Salisbury. There was no money for best in Peopleton Brook today (gambled heavily last time) and even Misaro and Super Frank finished in the ruck. How can you possibly read these races when there is no rhyme nor reason to the results? System bet My Learned Friend finished second. What next is going to happen? The Artful Fox, over 20lb out of the handicap, wins the 6.05 Southwell at 14/1! I backed Bill's Echo, and, of course, it finished third in a seven horse race! I did a Lucky 63 tonight and had Danny Zuko (I got 8/1), Elk Trail second 9/1, Gulf Punch (which I tipped recently on the flat) 25/1 third, and Wee Forbees (which I also tipped last time) 10/1 second, plus a couple of thirds that didn't count, giving a return of over £21 for £6.30. Even though I didn't put out any selections today, my tipping ability is still there!

7th June: I would like to take a few more subscriptions to my selection service, as I cannot give free selections every day for much longer. I invariably pick the right horses (most of them win within a short time), it's just a question of whether they are trying on the day!

This afternoon's selections: Diamond Johnny G (2.15 Folk), A Haon A Do (2.30 Newt), Caribbean Coral (3.15 Folk), Spiritonthemount (3.45 Folk), Barbirolli (4.15 Folk), O'Toole (4.30 Newt) (third 28/1), Knightsbridge Hill (5.00 Newt). Will post some for this evening later. Posted at 1.10 p.m.

The two top official rated, Lend A Hand Son 4/1 and Gentle Noel 12/1, first and second in the 1.50 Listowel. Blast! I only backed Gentle Noel each-way (£56 straight forecast)! It often pays to keep your eye on the official ratings on the card, especially if they are high ones (100+ in maiden hurdles). Diamond Johnny G appeared to be full of running in the 2.15 Folkestone, but never really competed in fourth place. Perhaps the presence of so many top stables put them off? Can do better. Another disappointment in the 2.30 Newton Abbot, where A Hon A Do was going better than anything, and I thought I would get the tricast, but it faded into fifth! I suppose you have to wait for it to be backed before it will win! I thought I was going to get a place with system bet Flattery in the 2.40 Naas, but fourth again! I couldn't really see the thrown in Matsunosuke winning the 2.45 Folkestone, with the trouble they had taken to hide its form recently! And I was right, as it finished only third! Unfortunately I did it in a forecast with Piazza San Pietro and the latter won at 6/1! No doubt Matsunosuke will win a bigger race when wanted. System bet Captain Becket, fortunate 6/1 winner of the 3.00 Newton Abbot (the leader made a hash of the last flight)! Lady Pilot was thrown in, but ran a disappointing? race under McCoy! Must win when wanted by the stable (couldn't have been stable money today). Caribbean Coral was not wanted today, but you have to back it every time, because it is thrown in when wanted, which will probably be next time (make a note!) I keep saying don't back a horse with form figures of -06, and I was right in that respect! Shadow Bay is another that can win soon. Don't you just hate it when the top ones in the betting come in? I suppose Dettori was there for a reason! System bet The Name Is Frank 11/2 second. Alhaque ran a stinker in the 3.30 Newton Abbot, finishing fourth. Should at least have been in the first two! None of the top-rated was wanted in the 3.45 Folkestone, with Spiritonthemount and Bell Island particularly disappointing. Both can win again soon. Presentandcorrect and Alroyal (-U40) were my top two rated for the 4.00 Newton Abbot, finishing first and second at 6/1 and 10/1! Coup De Tabac should be worth a bet next time (system). Barbirolli (above) made good grouind at halfway, but did not go through with its effort. Will win soon, hopefully next time. I wonder when Dora Explora will start to make an effort? Well, an embarrassing lot of selections so far today, let's hope it improves! At least I got O'Toole (above) 28/1 third, giving me the tricast with Battle Group and Stumped! I thought (like the TV pundit) that Cockney had got up in the 4.45 Folkestone, but fortunately I had money on the forecast with Mecox Bay. Well, Knightsbridge Hill wasn't wanted in the 5.00 Newton Abbot, but I did get the forecast with Classic Clover 8/1 and El Batal 5/1! Sorry about that for tipping purposes! I always give the top-rated as my selections, so you can bank on Knightsbridge Hill winning before long, but I also back my second and third rated, which came in here. So all in all I made a profit on the afternoon, despite none of my selections winning!

You probably don't want them now, but here are tonight's selections (you have to admit I am persistent and always optimistic! One day I will give five or six winners again!: Admirable Duque (7.30 Winds) (second 8/1), Calculating (7.15 Pont) (unplaced), Leleyf (8.00 Winds), Epic (8.15 Pont), Daddy's Gift (8.30 Winds), He's A Humbug (again) 8.45 Pont), Dancing Freddy (9.00 Winds), King Of Swords (9.15 Pont). Posted at 5.27 p.m.

Results: Hannon almost inevitably got the first maiden winner at Windsor with Major Dude, and I missed the plunge on the second, Perfect Pastime, which apparently has classic entries! Hannon again with Stag's Leap in the 7.00 Windsor, beating second-rated Sassanian, 15/2. Keep an eye on Tweedledrum, which missed the break and finished close up in fourth. Sod's law! Calculating would choose today to run a crap race after being placed several times in a row! That's a sure sign to me that next time out it will win! None of my top-rated figured in the finish, although Dan Buoy (second) was a system bet. I am sure somebody is monitoring my selections and giving them the thumbs down! Admirable Duque (above) 8/1 second. I also had a small bet on Brouhaha, winning at 20/1! Wish I had done the forecast! Alan King's Wild Desert finished third (always worth an interest on the flat). Opera Prince will do better soon after contesting the lead for a long way tonight. Best in Di Stefano ran on too late for fourth in the 7.45 Pontefract, and will be worth a bet soon. Leleyf (above) did not get placed. I seem to be picking the only ones that are not trying at present! Epic made no effort to get into the race in the 8.15 Pontefract, and I feel sure that Forsyth could have finished much closer if it had not run in behind another horse. I normally back Brittain's horses, but ignored Azlak for some reason! Many of these races are farcical, with the best horses making no effort to get involved. Daddy's Gift (above), Orchard Supreme (thrown in) and Baylini (fourth) were best in and out with the washing. How can you cater for that? The way these horses run, the winner is a pin job! System bet Crazy Chris (I knew it!) 20/1 winner! He's A Humbug ran on well against the rail in the 8.45 Pontefract and finished... fourth! That's right! Will win soon. My other choices, Dickie Le Davoir looked all over the winner and got pipped on the line (Mr Heffernan), and Klynch was out of it! Out of all that lot I got nothing! Elijah Pepper (-36) 7/2 winner. Dancing Freddy (above) was in the lead a furlong out, but faded into sixth place. Pity, it had typical system for, so it may be next time now. Damned annoying when the first and second in the betting come in! Grand Zafeen should also be orth a bet soon. King Of Swords was the only one of my top three not to get placed in the 9.15 Po