God. I've seen this movie before.
Remember when Willie Mullins would turn up to Cheltenham with approximately 847 horses for a single race? Well, Aidan O'Brien's clearly been taking notes from teh master of Closutton. The Ballydoyle supremo is absolutely flooding Sunday's French Classics with runners, and I'm all for it.
The "Throw Everything at the Wall" Strategy
In the French 2,000 Guineas (or Poule d'Essai des Poulains if you're feeling fancy), O'Brien's unleashing a trio led by Henri Matisse and Camille Pissarro, with Serengeti clearly along for the ride as a pacemaker. Then in the Pouliches, he's going four-handed with Exactly, Bedtime Story, Merrily and Heavens Gate.
It's like watching someone play roulette by covering half the board. Except O'Brien's chips are worth millions.
I was at Leopardstown back in 2019 when he did something similar in a Group 3. Sent five runners, and the one that won? The 20-1 outsider that nobody – including the stable, I suspect – fancied. Racing's funny like that.
Who Actually Wins This Thing?
The Poulains looks proper tasty. Henri Matisse was absolutely sensational in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf at Del Mar. I'd had a few drinks that night and still remember shouting at my TV as he cruised through the field like they were standing still.
Camille Pissarro interests me more though. His price has bounced around like a yo-yo throughout his career, but when he landed the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere over this track, he showed exactly what he can do on his day.
His prep at the Curragh caught my eye. Ran on really well into second under a penalty, and it screamed "I need further."
Aomori City could run huge here too. My colleague James (who fancies himself as some kind of form guru) hasn't stopped banging on about him since his Craven run.
Zarigana – Talented But Tricky
The Pouliches revolves around Zarigana for Francis-Henri Graffard. She's got the pedigree – closely related to superstar Zarkava – but man, she looked a handful in the Marcel Boussac.
Went off 1-2 that day! I lost $75 on her and was cursing as she fought her jockey half the way round. Some horses just don't like being told what to do...
She did win the Prix de la Grotte on her return, but it wasn't exactly impressive. Had to work hard to deny Shes Perfect, who goes again for Charlie Fellowes.
What Happened to the Monster?
Remember Bedtime Story? After she demolished the Chesham field at Royal Ascot by nearly ten lengths, I told everyone who'd listen (and plenty who wouldn't) that we were looking at the next superstar filly.
That aged well. She got stuffed in both the Moyglare and Marcel Boussac.
I feel stupid now, but maybe – just maybe – she's best fresh? First run of the season could see her bounce back. Or I could be clutching at straws.
Mandanaba is unbeaten and by Ghaiyyath who's absolutely on fire as a sire right now. If it turns into a stamina test, she'll be finishing stronger than most.
Weekend Selections – Including My 11-1 Banker
On the home front, Giselle (1.15 Lingfield) should hack up in the Oaks Trial. There's only three runners, and she's already the best on paper. The hood going on first time is slightly concerning, but I'd be shocked if she doesn't win.
In the Derby Trial, I'm all over Puppet Master (3.00 Lingfield) who's crying out for this trip. His Ballysax fourth behind Delacroix at Leopardstown had "improvement coming" written all over it.
But my absolute banker of the weekend? Lanesborough in the Swinton Handicap Hurdle (1.35 Haydock).
This horse looks chucked in off 116. He's improving at a rate of knots – second off 103 before bolting up off 108 at Warwick. After just six races, Ben Pauling's charge could have any amount in hand.
I've already had £200 on at 11-1 last night... and I'm tempted to go back for more. When you know, you know.
Good luck and Yeeehaaa!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main factors that determine the outcome of horse races?
The result of a race is affected by many variables, such as the physical condition, the breeding and the training of the horse. The jockey's experience and skill, as well as the track condition, the distance and the weight of the horse, are also important factors. Weather conditions can be a major factor. Some horses perform better in specific conditions or on certain surfaces.
How do handicaps work for horse racing?
Handicapping, also known as handicapping in racing, is a system that gives all horses the same chance to win. Horses receive different weights according to their past performance, and the better horses are given more weight. This system has been designed to maintain a level playing field and is crucial for those who bet on races.
What is a Triple Crown in horseracing?
Triple Crown: This prestigious title is awarded to thoroughbreds that are three years old and have won three major races within a year. The Triple Crown is awarded to a thoroughbred that wins three major races in a single year. In the United States this includes the Kentucky Derby Stakes, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. Triple Crowns are a rare, notable achievement that shows a horse’s endurance and exceptional ability.
What are the main horse racing events in the world?
Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing - the Kentucky Derby Stakes, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes - is one of horse racing's most prestigious events. Dubai World Cup is a race that has a lot of international recognition. Other races are the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (France), Royal Ascot (United Kingdom), and Melbourne Cup (Australia). These prestigious competitions attract the finest riders, trainers, or horses in the world.
How do horse trainers prepare their horses for racing?
Trainers are meticulous in their preparation of horses for races. This includes a combination between physical conditioning, nutritional training, and mental coaching. They design customized workout routines designed to increase strength, speed and stamina. Trainers also ensure a proper diet for optimal health and energy, and they work to keep the horses focused and stress-free with stable routines and attentive care.
Statistics
- The record for the highest horse race betting turnover in a year is held by Japan, surpassing $22 billion.
- As of the latest reports, the horse racing industry contributes approximately $40 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
- The Thoroughbred industry in the United Kingdom heralds over £3 billion in economic output annually.
- The Kentucky Derby, one of the most watched horse racing events, has attracted over 150,000 spectators in a single event.
- There are over 9.2 million horses in the United States, with a significant portion of these bred for the purpose of racing.
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How To
How To Follow Proper Etiquette at Horse Racing Events
When attending a horse racing event, dress according to the code, often influenced by the prestige of the race and the area of the venue. In premium seating areas or high-stakes races like the Kentucky Derby, more formal attire is expected. Never be negative or show unsportsmanlike behavior. Be familiar with the betting procedure to avoid holding others up and keep lines moving. Lastly, respect the horses, jockeys, and staff, understanding that the safety and integrity of the sport are paramount.
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