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Today's best bets, by Will Hayler
Having been far from convinced about the prospects of Long Run in Monday's King George VI Chase, I have nearly had my head turned by listening to owner Robert Waley-Cohen when interviewed on At The Races.
I have never heard him so effusive about the prospects of his horse. He is genuinely convinced that the real Long Run will turn up next week.
Matt Chapman was brave enough to ask Waley-Cohen about the Fakenham incident last week, whereby his son, Sam, failed to convince the stewards with his excuses for finishing a circuit too early.
"The stewards gave him 12 days and as far as I'm concerned, that deals with the subject," he said. Well done to Matt for trying anyway.
Tempest River (12.40) was disappointing when fourth at Newbury last month, fading on the run to the final flight having looked sure to go close turning for home. Maybe she found the two miles and five furlongs just stretching her stamina, as she had shaped like a winner waiting to happen when third at Aintree on his reappearance.
Dropped back in distance by half a mile and against slightly weaker opposition at Hereford, she can take advantage of the 7lb that previous winners Aegean Destiny and Justazippy have to give away.
Grams And Ounces (2.10) performed well on the Flat this summer for Amy Weaver, having won twice over middle distances for the same trainer last year. He then moved to Seamus Durack for a couple of starts over hurdles and showed some promise when running on from the rear last month at Uttoxeter.
He's now moved on again and makes his debut for John Flint on Wednesday afternoon, a trainer who has a record of doing well with new arrivals. The betting market ought to give an important clue as to what is expected.
Presumably Sir Mark Prescott will have better things to do at home than make his way up to Southwell to watch Bold Cuffs (1.30) bid to break his duck in this seven-furlong maiden, but the Baronet ought nevertheless be able to take some Christmas cheer from the race. This colt came home from a flourish after getting outpaced on his debut at the same track 11 days ago and will be suited by moving up to seven furlongs.
And that's it before the Boxing Day bonanza. Merry Christmas to you all.
Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2011/dec/22/live-racing-december-22-2011
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