Race report - 9th December 2011
Friday 9th December 2011
11.50 Earl of Doncaster Hotel Fillies' Juvenile Maiden Hurdle (2m1/2f)
Four early casualties, including Scotsbrook Legend, reduced the field to seven with DUBAWI DANCER cutting out the running amid loose horses. Behind her, Kishanda travelled sweetly but Tom Scudamore only had to shake the reins at the favourite to register a winning debut for Jim Best. In second, the more experienced Tarantella Lady out pointed Kishanda on the long run to the line.
12.25 Atteys Solicitors Novices' Chase (2m1/2f)
Long odds-on favourite SPRINTER SACRE was the horse in the spotlight here on his seasonal re-appearance for Nicky Henderson. He jumped well behind pace setter Celtic Wish in the hands of David Bass before springing to the front at the seventh. Sprinter Sacre quickly opened up an unassailable advantage, leaping his fences with flamboyance. lightening Rod did well to stay within range but was no match for Henderson's Arkle Chase hopeful.
1.00 Victor Chandler.com National Hunt Novices' Hurdle (2m31/2f)
EBANOUR scored a four-length verdict for the in-form Donald McCain and Jason Maguire. He was given a confident ride behind Tycoon's Reflection and Dark Shadow. The latter plugged on gamely for Nicky Henderson but EBANOUR, sporting first time blinkers, looks the type to build on this. Charlie Wingnut, Henderson's other runner, was prominent for much of the way and should come on for the run.
1.35 Happy Christmas To All Our Racegoers Novices' Handicap Hurdle (2m1/2f)
The going changed to good to soft following a heavy downpour, but it suited ARROW BARROW, who powered clear over the last to land a gamble for John Wade in the hands of James Reveley. Missionaire jumped fluently in front through the early part of the contest, opening up a four-length lead as they swung for home, and looked as if he might hold them all at bay until the winner pounced. A bumper winner two seasons ago, Arrow Barrow may be able to build on this now he has found his form.
2.10 Play Casino At Victor Chandler Mares' Handicap Hurdle (2m31/2f)
Eventual winner ARCTIC ACTRESS wasn't fluent mid-race but was still prominent with four to jump, alongside Classical Mist and American Ladie in the first time visor. Heading for home, however, it was Classical Mist who took over only for Arctic Actress to fight back. Richie Killoran's mount, trained by Nicky Henderson, eventually pulled clear to give the leading trainer a double on the day.
2.45 bjsdoncaster.co.uk Handicap Chase (3m)
Craiglands, in the combination of a tongue-tie and visor for the first time, headed the market for this staying handicap but there was also support for Soft Spoken Guy. Sacre Toi and Deuteronomy led the field on the first circuit, jumping boldly, and it was the latter who pulled clear with they grey SEIZE approaching four from home. Deuteronomy continued to jump well but was run down close home by James Moffatt's nine-year-old, and 8-1 chance ridden by Brian Hughes.
3.20 Bet In Play at Victor Chandler Handicap Hurdle (3m1/2f)
Former Grand National-winning jockey Maurice Barnes won the finale with the five-year-old HOWIZEE, partnered by stable jockey Michael McAlister. Always in touch, he kept on well to recover from hitting the second last flight, and got on top in the final 75 yards to beat Theologist by half a length. A 16-1 chance, Howizee had been below par since racking up a string of seconds on sound surfaces during the summer. This was his first career success at the 11th attempt.
