Nikolay Kalinin celebrates the ‘Daily Mail’s’ campaign to encourage restaurant customers to take doggy bags home with them and joins those slamming Wetherspoons decision to refuse to participate
Food waste is a big problem in today’s society, not only because it’s damaging to the environment – a fifth of Britain’s gas emissions come from food waste – but also because it’s highly inconsiderate to waste food when an increasing number of Brits find themselves homeless and hungry.
Fortunately, the Daily Mail has set up a campaign to help tackle this issue called ‘War On Food Waste,’ which has been led by many prominent restaurants such as Pizza Express and Wagamama. The campaign’s mission is to normalise taking home leftovers as part of the eating out routine.
Despite 81% of the British public supporting restaurants offering bags for taking leftovers home as standard, an investigation conducted by The Mail on Sunday – which analysed more than 20 dining chains – concluded that the venues were failing to encourage people to take leftover food home.
One of the worst examples of such malpractice is Wetherspoons, which refuses to allow taking leftovers home at all. According to a spokesperson from the company, there “isn’t a demand from customers” for such an option, which, in my view, is absolute tosh.
They further added: “The only takeaway packaging is for pizza, though a customer would have to ask for this. Doggy bags are not appropriate for all pubs and restaurants as they create a large amount of packaging waste.”
In contrast, Ellie Besley-Gould of the somewhat ritzier steak chain Hawksmoor enthused about customers taking away what they don’t consume whilst dining out and remarked: “It’s brilliant that The Mail on Sunday is taking on food waste. For lots of people it is half the treat to know you’ve got a steak sandwich for lunch the next day. Many of our customers even come with actual dogs in mind – taking home bones for their canine friends.”
By contrast, in the US, such practices have been in place for years, with takeaway bags going back to the Second World War. In France meanwhile, it will be required from July 1st for all restaurants, cafes and bistros to supply bags for taking away leftovers if requested.
This campaign very much reminds me of Lotti Henley, an Austrian-born philanthropist who created Plan Zheroes, an organisation linking businesses with charity organisations in order to provide food for those in need, and who was the subject of a feature in The Steeple Times back in 2017.
It’s honestly great to see the Daily Mail, for once, contributing to a good cause instead of sharing misleading headlines such as Didsbury being a ‘no go’ area for white people, and I really hope that more restaurants join a scheme that everybody other than the ghastly windbag Tim Martin quite rightly supports.
One can always rely on the total twerp Tim Martin to go against any sensible campaign.Richard Caring, owner of some London’s grandest dining spots, has encouraged takeaway for years. At 34 in Mayfair, he even went to the length of getting the artist Tracey Emin to design the box such food could be taken away in. Whilst the slapdash, plain stupid ‘Loose Women’ presenter Janet Street Porter remarked of takeaway boxes: “I look down slightly on people who [ask for one],” whilst the revered restaurateur Russell Norman suggested those that are embarrassed “just lie and say it’s for your dog.”
The ‘Daily Mail’ deserves credit for encouraging diners to takeaway food they haven’t eaten and restaurants really should encourage it. Including a note on menus mentioning such and the training of staff to mention takeaway of leftovers as perfectly feasible is something that will harm nobody and benefit everybody.
Matthew Steeples analyses the top tipsters’ selections for Day 5 at Royal Ascot 2021 after landing 1st places at 22/1 and 19/4 yesterday
Today, after a day where the rain actually helped with a 2nd for Oisin Murphy on Dragon Symbol (that paid out as a 1st before a steward’s inquiry) at 11/2, a 1st for David Probert on Sandrine at 22/1, a 1st for Oisin Murphy on Quickthorn at 19/4, a 5th for Mo Celita at 6/1, a 2nd for Snow Lantern at 14/1 and a 4th for She Do at 28/1 yesterday giving a +83% return, on Day 5 of Royal Ascot 2021, I am looking at EACH WAY BETS on:
2.30pm Chesham Stakes, Royal Ascot (10 runners, 3 places)
Oisin Murphy – Andrew Balding combo Masekela at 17/4 from 5/1 earlier (Racing Post, The Sun, Daily Mail ’Sam Turner’ DANGER, Sporting Life, Guardian)
Graeme Rodway for Racing Post muses: “Andrew Balding is already on the scoresheet with a juvenile this week having saddled Berkshire Shadow to win the Coventry and Masekela looked an equally exciting prospect when winning on soft ground on his debut at Goodwood. A bold bid is on the cards.”
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “Aidan O’Brien has not been firing in the winners at his usual rate this week and in-form Andrew Balding’s Masekela is an interesting alternative to likely favourite Point Lonsdale. He belied a pedigree that hints more at stamina than speed to win a six-furlong maiden first time up, recording a respectable time in the process, and could improve abruptly for this step up to seven.”
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life shares: “Aidan O’Brien said Point Lonsdale had ‘all the right stuff’ after his five-and-a-half length victory on debut at the Curragh on June 2 and the son of Australia looks a likely short-priced favourite here. However, he’s worth taking on with Andrew Balding’s MASEKELA who was impressive himself when winning on debut at Goodwood on May 21. That was on soft ground so the deluge of rain looks of little concern to him and serious improvement can be expected from first to second start, as we saw with the same stable’s Berkshire Shadow earlier in the week.”
Racing Post adds: “Pushed out to win 6f race at Goodwood on soft; interesting contender.”
The Sun finishes: “Good winner at Goodwood and has a lot more to offer.”
Also in the same race, Hollie Doyle – Archie Watson combo Sweeping at 12/1 (LAMBOURN)
Racing Post remarks: “Solid effort at Leicester with the winner boosting the form in the Coventry; considered.”
3.05pm Jersey Stakes, Royal Ascot (19 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Richard Kingscote – Jane Chapple-Hyam combo Bellosa at 15/1 from 12/1 earlier (Radio 4, Mirror, At The Races ’Top Tip’)
Racing Post remarks: “2-2 at Newmarket, including Listed race last time; deserves serious consideration.”
At The Races enthuses: “Preference is for the unbeaten filly BELLOSA. Pitched into Listed company for only her second start, she made all to see off Fundamental in the manner of a top-class operator and there should be plenty more to come from the Awtaad filly as she progresses through the ranks.”
Also in the same race, Tom Marquand – William Haggas combo Light Refrain at 13/1 (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, NEWMARKET, Daily Mail ‘Robin Goodfellow’ and ’Sam Turner’)
The Sun suggests: “This Frankel filly loves soft ground and went close in a Haydock Group 2 last time. She has more to offer.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail comments; “Conditions were pretty attritional yesterday but that shouldn’t bother LIGHT REFRAIN who saw the form of her effort behind Rohaan at Haydock take a sizeable boost when runner-up Dragon Symbol was first past the post in the Commonwealth Cup. She has improved a stone on deep ground this term in winning at Nottingham before her honourable fourth in Group Two company last month and, as a daughter of Frankel, should appreciate this step back up in trip.
Racing Post adds: “Has improved on soft/heavy ground this year; returning to 7f will probably be fine.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Andrew Balding combo Tactical at 15/1 from 11/1 earlier
Racing Post says: “Drop back to 6f seemed against him last time but could get back on track here; respected.”
3.40pm Hardwicke Stakes, Royal Ascot (11 runners, 3 places)
Jim Crowley on Hukum at 7/1 (Racing Post ‘Ace Tipster’, Racing Post, Daily Mail ‘Robin Goodfellow’ and ’Sam Turner’, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’, SPOTLIGHT, LAMBOURN)
Keith Melrose for Racing Post offers: “Won the King George V here last year and failed only for stamina in the St Leger. Handles soft ground and he rates as the likeliest winner of a Hardwicke that, while competitive, contains nothing as exciting as he is.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail suggests: A highly competitive renewal, but HUKUM looks to have been brought along steadily this term with this race in mind and should be involved if building on a promising win at Goodwood last time. The selection won the 3-y-o handicap at this meeting 12 months ago and travelled like a dream on his latest start before being nudged to a cosy win.”
Racing Post adds: “There should be more to come from HUKUM and he gets the vote over Ilaraab, with Highest Ground third choice… Won at this meeting last year; looks the type to rate higher yet; respected back here.”
At The Races concludes: “Hukum won last year’s King George V Stakes here and arrives following a comfortable Listed success at Goodwood. He shouldn’t be far away, while the upped-in-class Ilaraab is a fascinating player having won his last six appearances.”
Also in the same race, Japan at 15/1 (Racing Post ‘Dark Horse’, POSTDATA, RP Ratings)
Sam Hardy for Racing Post comments: “Won the King Edward VII Stakes here two years ago. Disappointing campaign last season, but back in the winner’s enclosure at Chester’s May meeting and should go well with conditions to suit.”
Racing Post adds: “Below-par third in Coronation Cup; very good chance if able to show his 3yo form.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Sir Michael Stoute combo Highest Ground at 15/1 (Daily Mail ‘Gimcrack’, Daily Express)
Racing Post says: “Won at Leicester last week; still unexposed at 1m4f; trainer has superb Hardwicke record.”
5pm Wokingham Stakes, Royal Ascot (21 runners, 6 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Kieran Shoemark – James Fanshawe combo Fresh at 15/2 from 10/1 earlier (Guardian, Racing Post ’Spotlight’ and ’Speed Figures’, Racing Post, SPOTLIGHT, TOPSPEED, NEWMARKET, Guardian, Sporting Life)
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “Fresh (5.00) could be the pick of them. He has twice run well over Saturday’s track and trip with cut in the ground, most recently when flying at the finish to pip Pendleton last month. He is 5lb better off with that rival here and is open to improvement with just nine races in the book.”
Dave Edwards for Racing Post states: “Recorded a personal best on the clock over course and distance last time, which is invariably a positive pointer.”
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life adds: “King’s Lynn looks very well handicapped off a mark of 100 following his unlucky in-running seventh in the King’s Stand on Tuesday but this is a very different test following a four-day turnaround. He’ll make the market and is probably worth taking on with James Fanshawe’s FRESH the one to be on now the ground has turned. He loves Ascot having finished a nose second here to Stone Circle on soft ground last October before winning over the course and distance last time out when seeing off subsequent York winner Pendleton.”
“He’s lightly raced and has more to offer off a strong gallop while his sire, Bated Breath, has won three Royal Ascot races with his progeny in recent years thanks to Biometric, Daahyeh and Space Traveller.”
Racing Post enthuses: “King’s Lynn looked good in the King’s Stand on Tuesday and stablemate Chil Chil is a rapid improver, but the latter may need fast ground and preference is for Fresh, a powerful finisher who is going the right way. Pendleton can also go well on ground that has come right for him… King’s Lynn is fascinating back up to 6f but FRESH (nap) promises to be suited by a really strong test over C&D and he is preferred… Highly respected on two C&D runs; can improve further with an even more strongly run race.”
Also in the same race, Paul Hanagan – Richard Fahey combo Mr Lupton at 15/1 (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, Daily Mail ‘Robin Goodfellow’ and ’Sam Turner’)
The Sun says: “This game veteran ran right up to his best when winning at York last time. He goes on any ground and hasn’t been clobbered by the handicapper.”
Racing Post adds: “Well suited by strongly run 6f handicaps but held off similar marks here in 2018 and 2020.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail concludes: “Although beaten in this race in 2018 and 2020, MR LUPTON appeals as a sporting bet to make it third time lucky. Richard Fahey’s grand sprinter was far from disgraced on either of the previous occasions he has tackled this event and showcased his well-being with a cosy York success. Hopefully, the easy ground will stop the frontrunners getting too far from him and he can arrive late on the scene.”
Also in the same race, Callum Rodriguez – Michael Dods combo Pendleton at 15/2 (Daily Mail ‘Gimcrack’, ’Northerner NAP’, At The Races ’Top Tip’, Daily Record, POSTDATA)
Racing Post remarks: “Suited by soft/heavy; progressive sprinter with C&D form; sound chance.”
At The Races concludes: “The vote, therefore, goes to PENDLETON, who was just denied on his penultimate start over C&D before going one better at York over 5f. Soft ground is no issue for Michael Dods’ gelding who also won here over 5f last autumn.”
5.35pm Golden Gates Stakes, Royal Ascot (16 runners, 4 places)
Oisin Murphy – Andrew Balding combo Foxes Tales at 17/2 from 8/1 earlier (Guardian)
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “Highly competitive, but Foxes Tales is worth a second look with Oisin Murphy taking the reins for the first time. He was ill at ease on the track in a Derby trial at Chester last time but showed enough in his Newbury maiden to suggest that an opening mark of 93 could be generous.”
Racing Post adds: “Soon struggling at Chester latest; capable of better at 1m2f on a more conventional course.”
Also in the same race, Paul Hanagan – Richard Fahey combo Pythagoras at 13/1 from 14/1 earlier (Racing Post, Daily Mail ‘Marcus Townend Captain Heath’)
Paul Kealy for Racing Post suggests: “Shaped much better than the bare result in the Dante (sixth) and would have run against Mohaafeth on Thursday if the rain had come in time. Instead he goes for this handicap off a mark of 101, which must be lenient if connections still believe he’s a Group horse.”
Racing Post adds: “Unplaced in Listed and Group 2 races this term but back on testing ground today.”
Also in the same race, Frankie Dettori – Mark Johnston combo King Frankel at 7/2 from 10/3 earlier (Racing Post, SPOTLIGHT, RP Ratings, Daily Mail ‘Robin Goodfellow’ and ’Sam Turner’, The Star, Daily Record, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’)
Sam Turner for Daily Mail shares: KING FRANKEL made life difficult for himself at Epsom on Derby day when rearing at the start and racing lazily throughout. It was a measure of his ability that he arrived on the scene late on with a chance of overhauling winner Solent Gateaway and a switch to a more conventional track may see him travel a little sweeter in the hands of Frankie Dettori.”
Racing Post remarks: “Mark Johnston’s KING FRANKEL can be described as setting the standard and looks capable of better… Notable 2nd in 1m2f handicaps on last two starts and looked capable of better last time.”
At The Races finishes: “King Frankel has been hard to keep out of the frame on his four appearances this year and demands serious respect with Frankie Dettori in the saddle.”
6.10pm Queen Alexandra Stakes, Royal Ascot (17 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Richard Kingscote – Ian Williams combo The Grand Visir at 7/1 (The Sun ‘Longshot’, Daily Express)
The Sun states: “He is as game as they come and ran another cracker in a French Group 2 last time out. He is certain to run his race and has a big each-way chance.”
Racing Post adds: “Good record here; strong stayer and after all the rain he rates a major player.”
Also in the same race, Ryan Moore – WP Mullins combo Stratum at 9/2 (Racing Post ‘Handicappers’ NAP, RP Ratings, The Times, Daily Mail ‘Robin Goodfellow’ NB, GG.co.uk, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’)
Paul Curtis for Racing Post offers: “Pick of the weights on his win in the 2019 Cesarewitch and a career-best effort when runner-up in last year’s Lonsdale Cup. Won’t mind conditions and rates as the one to beat.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail adds: STRATUM has twice acquitted himself over trips short of his best this term, winning at Gowran before being outpaced in a slowly-run affair at Navan. Those runs should have put him straight for today’s test and it’s worth recalling he possessed the quality to finish runner-up to Enbihaar in a Group Two at York last summer, while he has already won a Cesarewitch and been placed here in the 2018 Ascot Stakes.”
At The Races remarks: “If Stratum gets home over the two and three-quarter miles he faces here then he will prove hard to beat for trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Ryan Moore, who rides this course as well as anyone. Stratum has placed here in the Ascot Stakes over two furlongs shorter but this does look a fraction tougher.”
Racing Post concludes: “Knows what these staying races are all about and has a massive chance at the weights.”
Also in the same race, Tom Marquand – Alan King combo Who Dares Wins at 16/1
Racing Post remarks: “Won this last year; got no luck in the Chester Cup last time; entitled to be in the mix.”
And finally, a longshot is given on Oisin Murphy – Saaed bin Suroor combo Global Heat at 25/1 from 20/1 earlier
Racing Post not especially keen: “Classy at best but there are serious doubts about him staying this extreme distance.”
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Can Oisin Murphy break records on the final day of Royal Ascot 2021?
Matthew Steeples analyses the top tipsters’ selections for Day 4 of Royal Ascot 2021 after landing a 22/1 winner yesterday and a 45/1 third place
Today, after a spectacular 1st for Oisin Murphy on Peretto at 22/1 and a 2nd for Roman Empire at 14/1 and a 3rd for Nicest at 45/1 yesterday, on Day 4 of Royal Ascot 2021, I am looking at EACH WAY BETS on:
2.30pm Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot (15 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Frankie Dettori on Flotus at 13/5 from 5/2 earlier (Guardian, Daily Mail ‘Nigel Taylor Formcast’, Racing Post ’Newmarket NAP’, GG.co.uk, The Sun, NEWMARKET, The Times)
Greg Cook for Guardian observes: “Flotus and Hello You were both deeply impressive on debut and are open to any amount of improvement. Experience of racing on turf, and the likelihood that she will appreciate quicker ground, just tips the balance in favour of Simon and Ed Crisford’s filly.”
David Milnes for Racing Post suggests: “Fancied to give Simon and Ed Crisford a winner at the royal meeting after some sparkling work on the watered gallop of late. She won on soft ground on her debut at Goodwood last month, so won’t mind any rain.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail shares: “Flotus won’t mind if the ground eases given she won well with cut at Goodwood and the booking of Frankie Dettori will ensure she is popular in the market.”
At The Races offers: “Flotus also holds enormous potential having shown a high cruising speed when a clear winner on soft ground at Goodwood and should make her presence felt with Frankie Dettori booked to ride.”
The Sun states: “Good winner on debut at Goodwood and has much more to come.”
Racing Post enthuses: “Absolutely scooted home at Goodwood and Ed Crisford was very complimentary afterwards.”
Also in the same race, David Probert – Andrew Balding combo Sandrine at 22/1 (Daily Express)
Racing Post offers: “Strong in the finish when prevailing over Kempton’s 6f; this track should suit her.”
Also in the same race, Daniel Tudhope – George Boughey combo Hellomydarlin at 15/1 from 16/1 earlier (Sporting Life)
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life comments: “George Boughey is having an unbelievable season with his two-year-olds with 13 turf winners at 41% and nobody should be surprised that he’s triple-handed going into the Albany Stakes.”
“Cachet put in a superb performance to win by over five lengths on debut at Newmarket and Oscula was impressive in the Woodcote at Epsom, but the outsider of his trio, HELLOMYDARLIN, showed she knew her job well when winning on debut at Goodwood a week ago. She showed guts to see off the persistent challenge of Zain Claudette and Income, previously a head second to Albany contender Sows, was well beaten back in fourth.”
“By Galileo Gold, she’ll get further in time but the stiff six at Ascot looks the perfect next step for her and it could be telling that she’s made a late play to join the Boughey squad for this considering he has two other strong contenders. Fellow Goodwood debut winner Flotus was highly impressive for the Crisfords but she hasn’t been missed by the market.”
Racing Post adds: “Debut Goodwood winner last week; Topspeed/RPR figures bode fairly well.”
3.40pm Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot (18 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Charles Bishop – Eve Johnson Houghton combo Jumby at 17/2 from 8/1 earlier (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, The Times, Guardian)
The Sun suggests: “He is improving with every run and clocked a fast time when winning at Newmarket. This is tougher but there should be more to come.”
Racing Post adds: “Very strong form in Newmarket handicaps this year; open to further improvement.”
Also in the same race, William Buick on Suesa at 7/2 (Radio 4, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’, Guardian NB, The Star, Mirror, Daily Record, Daily Mail ‘Marcus Townend Captain Heath’)
Greg Wood for Guardian offers: “Suesa, a rare French raider this week, is rightly favourite here after a flawless four-race campaign to date, but this is a far sterner test than anything she has faced so far. At the likely odds, it may pay to chance the fast-improving Jumby at around 10-1, as the form of his handicap wins at Newmarket is rock solid and this stiff six with a frantic pace could be ideal.”
At The Races muses: “Suesa is unbeaten in four outings at Chantilly and she will appreciate any rain that is due with all of her victories coming with cut in the ground.”
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life observes: “If first-time blinkers inspire Supremacy to run at the level he showed as a juvenile he looks the most likely winner, but it’s hard to row in with him in such a hot race after his seasonal reappearance at this track which was so disappointing. Those who keep the faith can take heart from the fact his superb handler Clive Cox fitted first-time blinkers to another top-notch sprinter of his, Lethal Force, with success.”
“If he doesn’t fire Campanelle and Dragon Symbol look like two potential heavyweights in the division, but it’s hard to think either would be at their best if this forecast heavy rain materialises on Friday and with that in mind the French filly SUESA has to come into the reckoning. She is unbeaten in four starts including two wins on heavy and one on soft, so any sort of cut in the ground is going to benefit her and she looked a sprinter of some quality when bolting up in a couple of Group 3s at Chantilly in the spring.”
Racing Post adds: “Suesa is feared most… Exciting filly who is unbeaten in four races, all at Chantilly; looked classy last time.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Archie Watson combo Dragon Symbol at 11/2 from 9/2 earlier (The Sun, POSTDATA)
The Sun states: “Consistent and went close again at Haydock latest.”
Racing Post observes: “Fast-improving sprinter; went close in Haydock Group 2 most recently; remains of interest.”
4.20pm Coronation Cup at Royal Ascot (12 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Sean Levey – Richard Hannon combo Snow Lantern at 13/1 (Racing Post ‘Dark Horse’, Daily Telegraph)
Sam Hardy for Racing Post muses: “Trainer Richard Hannon has made it no secret how much he rates the daughter of Sky Lantern, who took this race in 2013. A repeat of her Newbury win on her seasonal return should see her go close.”
Racing Post adds: “Could develop into a smart performer if learning to settle; dam won this race in 2013.”
Also in the same race, Frankie Dettori on Pretty Gorgeous at 18/5 from 9/2 earlier (GG.co.uk, Racing Post, Racing Post ‘Handicappers’ NAP’, SPOTLIGHT, RP Ratings, TOPSPEED, The Times, Daily Express, At The Races ’Top Tip’)
Paul Curtis for Racing Post comments: “Can be forgiven a below par reappearance effort when favourite for the Irish 1,000 Guineas on deep ground and her solid two-year-old form, such as when beating 1,000 Guineas winner Mother Earth in the Fillies’ Mile, rates her the leading player on the figures.”
At The Races remarks: “Preference is for proven quality on this occasion and, having reached the top as a juvenile, the Joseph O’Brien-trained PRETTY GORGEOUS is taken to land the spoils. Having missed the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket due to illness, there was plenty to like about her reappearance in the Irish equivalent when finishing behind the reopposing Empress Josephine, her performance better than the bare result having travelled well for a long way. She is taken to reverse the form having received a better draw on this occasion.”
Racing Post adds: “Fillies’ Mile winner PRETTY GORGEOUS may be the answer with her reappearance under her belt… Leading player on 2yo form and should be sharper for her Irish 1,000 Guineas effort.”
5pm Sandringham Stakes at Royal Ascot (23 runners, 6 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Jamie Spencer on Prado at 25/1 from 20/1 earlier (Daily Mail ‘Marcus Townend Captain Heath’ NAP and ’Sam Turner’ DANGER)
Sam Turner suggests: “Prado, ridden by a superb straight track jockey in Jamie Spencer, also has appeal at a big price as she should improve for her comeback effort here on the round track.”
Racing Post remarks: “Unexposed and Jamie Spencer excels on hold-up horses on the straight course here.”
Also in the same race, Ray Dawson – Roger Varian combo She Do at 28/1 from 22/1 earlier (Sporting Life)
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life suggests: “A plethora of potentially well-handicapped fillies make up the Sandringham and this is a punting minefield. I don’t have a strong view, but it’s interesting that SHE DO is so much bigger in the betting than her Wolverhampton conqueror, Glesga Gal, as it wouldn’t surprise me if she reversed that form.”
“Roger Varian’s filly ran too free early on and was beaten over three lengths at the line, but she should come on for that run, the much stronger gallop looks sure to suit her and she gets a 9lb pull at the weights, as well. Beaten a length by Dubai Fountain on debut, she’s lightly-raced since and I’ve little doubt she’s very well handicapped in this off 83, although you could say similar about most of the field. At a big price though, She Do will do indeed.”
Racing Post adds: “No match for Glesga Gal when second on reappearance but could be sharper for that run.”
Also in the same race, Ryan Moore – AP O’Brien combo Friendly at 12/1 from 10/1 earlier (GG.co.uk, At The Races “Watch Out For’, Daily Record)
Racing Post says: “Eight-race maiden but fine pedigree and much improved when sixth in Irish 1,000 Guineas.”
At The Races adds: “Friendly ran a cracking race when sixth in the Irish 1,000 Guineas and has to be respected swapping Group 1 company for a handicap.”
5.35pm Duke of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot (17 runners, 5 places)
Ryan Moore – Alan King combo Tritonic at 17/2 from 8/1 earlier (Racing Post, Racing Post ‘Eyecatcher’, LAMBOURN)
Richard Young for Racing Post says: “Very useful on the Flat and over hurdles, won’t mind any rain and much better than he was able to show in a messy all-weather race last time.”
Racing Post adds: “2nd over 1m2f at this meeting (soft) in 2020; needs to improve; not fully exposed at 1m4f.”
Also in the same race, Hollie Doyle – Alan King combo Scarlet Dragon at 13/1 from 10/1 earlier (Guardian)
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “Scarlet Dragon had been off the boil for a while before Hollie Doyle steered him to victory in this race last year, and much the same is true this time around. Reunited with Doyle at a track where he goes so well, he could outrun his odds of around 16-1.”
Racing Post remarks: “Won this race from the back last year on soft off 4lb lower; considered seriously.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Hughie Morrison combo Quickthorn at 19/4 from 4/1 earlier (Racing Post ‘Ace Tipster’, Daily Telegraph, SPOTLIGHT, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’)
Graeme Rodway for Racing Post shares: “Hughie Morrison won this with Arab Dawn in 2015 and has an outstanding candidate this year. Quickthorn looked a Group horse in the making when running away with a 1m4f handicap at Haydock last month and could still be well ahead of the handicapper off a 13lb higher mark of 97.”
Racing Post adds: “The vote goes to QUICKTHORN who registered a deeply impressive Haydock win on good to soft… Smooth as you like on reappearance at Haydock (1m4f, good to soft); raised 13lb; player.”
At The Races finishes: “Quickthorn bolted up on his seasonal reappearance at Haydock and is respected in his follow-up bid, for all he has been hit with a 13lb rise as well.”
6.10pm Palace of Holyroodhouse Stakes at Royal Ascot (24 runners, 5 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Daniel Tudhope on Nomadic Empire at 35/1 (The Sun ‘Longshot’, POSTDATA)
The Sun states: “He came right back to form when second at York last time out. He likes this trip and trainer David O’Meara is in decent nick.”
Racing Post adds: “Useful 2yo; career best when second to Bedford Flyer latest (5f, good); vulnerable up 3lb.”
Also in the same race, Silvestre De Sousa – Michael Appleby combo Warrior Brave at 13/2 from 6/1 earlier (Daily Mail ’Sam Turner’ DANGER and ’Nigel Taylor Formcast’ NAP, RP Ratings, Mirror, The Sun, Daily Record)
Sam Turner for Daily Mail remarks: “Warrior Brave is well handicapped on his latest effort at Sandown and the first-time blinkers may iron out his quirks. “
The Sun adds: “Went close at Sandown last time and big chance under penalty.”
Racing Post comments: “Has taken off in cheekpieces on good to firm the last twice; new headgear; 7lb well-in.”
At The Races offers: “The first-time blinkered Warrior Brave cannot be ruled out either.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Adrian Nicholls combo Mo Celita at 6/1 from 11/2 earlier (Racing Post ’Speed Figures’, TOPSPEED)
Dave Edwards for Racing Post offers: “Unbeaten in five starts on turf and this rapidly improving sprinter can stretch her successful sequence to six.”
Racing Post concludes: “Chasing 6-timer and impressive last twice; rain would be a plus; another big run on cards.”
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Can Oisin Murphy land the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes on Quickthorn at 5.35pm? This morning, the jockey himself observed: “QUICKTHORN wouldn’t want it any faster than good ground in the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes so the forecast showers are good for him. He’s had some issues but I was happy with him at Haydock and our draw in 19 is not really a big deal, I can ride him however I want to ride him from there. I think he’s the best horse in the race, he has the most upside, but if it was fast ground I don’t think he’ll be running.”
Matthew Steeples analyses the top tipsters’ selections for Day 3 of Royal Ascot 2021 and offers some longshot choices at huge odds in 5 of the 7 races
Today, after being saved from a wipeout with a 5th place paying out on Beat Le Bon at 33/1, a 2nd for Twilight Gleaming at 23/10 and a 3rd for Queen Power at 17/4 yesterday, on Day Three of Royal Ascot 2021, I am avoiding the clash of Stradivarius and Subjectivist at 4.15pm and looking at EACH WAY BETS on:
3.05pm Hampton Court at Royal Ascot (10 runners, 3 places)
Ryan Moore – AP O’Brien combo Roman Empire at 7/1 from 8/1 earlier (Radio 4)
Racing Post remarks: “Perhaps flattered by front-running Dante fourth but still respected for O’Brien/Moore team.”
At The Races adds: “Completing the shortlist is Roman Empire, who ran a gallant race from the front in the Dante and could go close if being allowed an easy lead.”
Also in the same race, William Buick – Charlie Appleby combo One Ruler at 19/4 from 9/2 earlier (Guardian NB, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’, Daily Mail ’Sam Turner’ and ‘Robin Goodfellow’, TOPSPEED, Daily Telegraph)
Greg Wood for Guardian remarks: “Mohaafeth remains an unknown quantity having been scratched from the Derby when the ground eased earlier this month, and overnight rain could put a dampener on his chance again. Even if the surface remains quick, however, One Ruler has plenty of form that makes him a serious contender and 10 furlongs could well be his ideal trip.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail says: “ONE RULER is one horse which won’t mind a deluge and this interim trip of 10 furlongs could prove to be his optimum after he looked to fail to get home in the Derby on a soft surface. The selection had previously acquitted himself well in the 2t,000 Guineas considering it was his comeback and can hold off the likes of Movin Time, who himself looked a classy colt in the making at Newmarket last time.”
Racing Post adds: “Sixth in the Guineas and the Derby, and the drop back in grade is a positive.”
At The Races concludes: “One Ruler. The aforementioned Charlie Appleby-trained candidate has been highly tried this campaign, with his only two outings being in Classics, and is entitled to give a good account in calmer waters.”
3.40pm Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot (13 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Jamie Spencer on Ad Infinitum at 20/1 from 18/1 earlier (Radio 4)
Racing Post remarks: “Won Goodwood Listed race on just her second run; further progress necessary, but possible.”
Also in the same race, Dubai Fountain at 19/2 from 9/1 earlier (Daily Mail ‘Formcast’, The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, Guardian, RP Ratings, TOPSPEED, POSTDATA, Daily Telegraph)
The Sun suggests: “She looked a hot prospect for Epsom when winning the Cheshire Oaks but she seemed to hate the track. Put a line through that one and she has every chance for Mark Johnston who has plenty of Ascot winners.”
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “Fillies coming on to the Ribblesdale after being beaten in the Oaks have a mixed record overall, but two of the last four winners were unplaced at Epsom and Dubai Fountain is a big price to be a third. She was third-last in the Classic after looking all at sea on the track, but a close fourth in the Fillies’ Mile last year is eye-catching form and 12-1 is a very fair price if the track proves more to her liking.”
Racing Post less sure: “Flopped in the Oaks but won the Cheshire Oaks previously; in the mix if bouncing back.”
At The Races finishes: “Dubai Fountain, whom failed to fire in the Classic 13 days ago, holds every chance of going close if bouncing back to the level of form she produced in the Cheshire Oaks.”
Also in the same race, Aidan O’Brien trained Nicest at 45/1 from 40/1 earlier (Racing Post ‘Ace Tipster’)
Graeme Rodway for Racing Post comments: “Shaped as though she was in need of the run when third behind Dubai Fountain in the Cheshire Oaks on her reappearance and built on that at the Curragh last time, making eyecatching late headway to finish fourth. The return to a longer trip should suit and she is still lightly raced and open to plenty of further improvement.”
Racing Post adds: “Respectable Group 3 and Listed form but needs to take a big step forward today.”
5pm Britannia Stakes at Royal Ascot (30 runners, 4 places)
Jim Crowley – Mark Johnston combo Qaader at 25/1 (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’)
The Sun says: “He didn’t have many rivals to beat at Goodwood last time but he managed to get the job done off a muddling pace. There will be no issues on that front today and he has a chance in a wide-open contest.”
Racing Post muses: “Coventry second who returned to winning ways last time in small-field conditions race.”
At The Races concludes: “Qaader looks likely to try to take them along under Jim Crowley and battled back once headed to win last time out at Goodwood, and with just 1lb more from the handicapper, he will take some passing.”
Also in the same race, Luke Morris – Sir Mark Prescott combo Royal Pleasure at 22/1 (Daily Mail ‘Captain Heath’ NAP, Racing Post ‘Eyecatcher’)
Ron Wood for Racing Post remarks: “Too headstrong in a muddling all-weather race last time but a potential improver now in this big-field handicap.”
Racing Post adds: “Better than latest bare result and trainer doesn’t have runners here for the fun of it.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy on Peretto at 22/1 (Guardian)
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “Perotto can be no more than a hopeful selection in a ferociously hot heat, but he looked sure to be suited by another step up in trip when winning over seven furlongs at Goodwood last time. Oisin Murphy’s booking – for just his seventh ride for Marcus Tregoning – could be seen as a positive, too.”
Racing Post adds: “Penalised for winning a weaker handicap at Goodwood; stamina to prove at 1m.”
Also in the same race, Jack Mitchell – Roger Varian combo Raadobarg at 8/1 from 7/1 earlier (Mirror, Daily Mail ’Sam Turner’)
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life offers: “Who knows which side will be the right one to be on with the thundery showers potentially having an impact but there looks to be pace on both wings. Stands’ side Quintillus, Big Narstie, Akmaam and Siam Fox look likely to tow the group along and that could be perfect for Roger Varian’s RAADOBARG who looks a highly progressive Night Of Thunder colt.”
“He won a high-quality handicap with embarrassing ease at Haydock last time out and fully deserved his 11lb hike in the weights. He pulled clear with Seasett with the heavy conditions proving no hindrance and, while he won his second start on Good to Firm, he’d very much appreciate the forecast showers. Air To Air looks the rapid improver to add to the shortlist from the far side, while Ataser and Grid are others to consider at bigger prices.”
Racing Post adds: “Impressive winner of his handicap debut, beating a bunch of in-form horses; up 11lb.”
5.35pm King George V Stakes at Royal Ascot (19 runners, 5 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Richard Kingscote – Sir Michael Stoute combo Just Fine at 33/1 (Racing Post ’Speed Figures’, TOPSPEED, Daily Express)
Dave Edwards for Racing Post observes: “Finished last of eight on his Newmarket return in April but is tons better than that, a point he can underline in this ultra-competitive handicap.”
Racing Post less enthusiastic: “Disappointed in handicap at Newmarket (1m2f, good) two months ago on reappearance.”
Also in the same race, Ben Curtis – Mark Johnston combo Kondo Isami at 12/1 (Racing Post ‘Handicappers’ NAP’, RP Ratings)
Paul Curtis for Racing Post offers: “Just held on from today’s rival and subsequent winner Tashkan when winning at York on his penultimate start, where the first three pulled well clear in a good time. Appeals as still well treated and can add to his yard’s good record in this race.”
Racing Post adds: “Nearly 2-2 this term; well handicapped and his trainer has won this race six times.”
Also in the same race, Frankie Dettori – John and Thady Gosden combo First Light at 19/4 from 9/2 earlier (At The Races ’Top Tip’, NEWMARKET)
Racing Post says: “Won maiden by a street; hard to pin on handicap debut, over new trip he looks sure to stay.”
At The Races adds: “It might pay to side with handicap debutant FIRST LIGHT representing top connections. The Dubawi colt stepped up on a couple of solid placed efforts when winning easily over 1m2f at Ripon and this extra couple of furlongs could potentially unlock another gear.”
6.10pm Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot (29 runners, 6 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
William Buick – Charlie Appleby combo On The Warpath at 35/1 (The Sun ‘Longshot’)
The Sun states: “A Listed performer and looks a huge price for the boys in blue with William Buick on board.”
Racing Post adds: “Effective at 6f-1m on turf but needs to show a thorough test at 7f is ideal; off 173 days.”
Also in the same race, David Allan – Tim Easterby combo Boardman at 17/2 from 8/1 earlier (Daily Mail ‘Captain Heath’, The Star)
Racing Post says: “Effective at 6f-1m on turf but needs to show a thorough test at 7f is ideal; off 173 days.”
Also in the same race, Mark Crehan on Corvair at 33/1 from 25/1 earlier (Sporting Life)
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life shares: “Another huge field in the rightly-reintroduced Buckingham Palace Stakes and there’s bags of pace middle to stands’ side. A hold-up horse drawn in a high number could be the way to go and I’d take a chance on CORVAIR from stall 26 under excellent 3lb claimer Mark Crehan.”
“This horse loves the all-weather but he’s unexposed on turf and was unlucky not to win on his first start on grass since last August when he was just pipped by Ametist at Newmarket. Up just 2lb for that superb run, Simon & Ed Crisford have negated that with the booking of Crehan who will likely ride this fellow cold in the early exchanges. Highfield Princess becomes even more interesting if the forecast showers instigate a ground change with John Quinn’s in-form Night Of Thunder filly breaking from stall 31, while Boardman is of obvious interest with Tim Easterby’s rapid improver going for a four-timer from stall nine.”
Racing Post adds: “Just lost out in only his 3rd turf start (7f, good); needs more to show up in better race.”
Also in the same race, James Doyle – Charlie Hills combo Persuasion at 12/1 (Daily Mail ‘Formcast’, Racing Post ‘Dark Horse’, The Sun, LAMBOURN, Daily Express, Daily Record, TOPSPEED)
Stuart Langley for Racing Post muses: “Lightly raced four-year-old who was second in a Group 3 as a juvenile. Was well beaten in the 2,000 Guineas before contesting handicaps and ended last season with a good second on heavy ground at Leicester. Reappeared with a win at Haydock on good to firm ground, 7f looks to be his trip and there could be more to come.”
The Sun adds: “Dug deep to win at Haydock and chance from 3lb higher.”
Racing Post concludes: “Cosy 7f win on return; the best may not have been seen of him yet; handles most ground.”
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Will Stradivarius see of Subjectivist at 4.15pm in the Gold Cup? Greg Wood for the ‘Guardian’ suggests: “Stradivarius attempts to equal Yeats’s record by winning a fourth Gold Cup but this looks his toughest test yet.”
Matthew Steeples analyses the top tipsters’ selections for Day 2 of Royal Ascot 2021 after scoring a 33/1 winner yesterday
Yesterday, our racing followers romped home up +177% courtesy of amongst other successes a 33/1 first for Hollie Doyle on Amtiyaz in the Copper Horse Stakes (£2.50 each way returned £108.13) and a 12/1 first for Oisin Murphy on Berkshire Shadow (£2.50 each way returned £41) in the Coventry Stakes.
Whilst today things get more challenging with some very crowded fields, for Day 2, Royal Ascot 2021, I suggest EACH WAY BETS on:
2.30pm Queen Mary Stakes, Royal Ascot (21 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
John Velazquez – Wesley Ward combo Twilight Gleaming at 23/10 from 9/4 earlier (Radio 4, At The Races ’Top Tip’, The Sun, GG.co.uk, Daily Mail Sam Hardy ‘Danger’, Sporting Life, NEWMARKET, The Times, Daily Telegraph, Daily Express, Daily Record)
Sam Turner for Daily Mail comments: “Twilight Gleaming bids to give her handler a fifth win in this race in 13 runnings and she was mightily impressive at Belmont last time.”
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life observes: “Wesley Ward has a terrific record in the Queen Mary having won it three times in the last six years and that helps sway thinking towards his TWILIGHT GLEAMING this time around. The daughter of National Defense looked awesome when blasting to a seven and a half length success at Belmont Park on May 9 and with her stands’ rail draw in 20 giving John Velazquez the nod to keep things simple it will take a brave man to bet against her bouncing out and making all.”
Racing Post remarks: “US raider, impressive winner at Belmont; represents trainer with fine record in this race.”
At The Races offers: “TWILIGHT GLEAMING learnt plenty from her debut at Keeneland when running out an impressive winner at Belmont and the daughter of National Defense bids to give Wesley Ward his fourth winner in this contest since 2015.”
The Sun finishes: “Easy win in America last time and has too much speed.”
Will Twilight Gleaming give trainer Wesley Ward a fifth victory in the Queen Mary Stakes?
Also in the same race on Day 2 of Royal Ascot 2021, Aidan O’Brien trained Yet at 19/2 from 10/1 earlier (Daily Mail ‘Robin Goodfellow’ and Sam Hardy ‘Best Bet’, Racing Post, SPOTLIGHT, POSTDATA, Mirror)
Racing Post remarks: “Aidan O’Brien has yet to train a Queen Mary winner, but in the very promising YET he has an opportunity to put that right… Made striking impression when winning at Dundalk; imposing type; strong candidate.”
At The Races muses: ” Yet got the better of Orinoco River in a Dundalk maiden last month and the pair both warrant a fair amount of respect with the likelihood of improvement to come.”
Sam Hardy for Daily Mail adds: “Connections equip the beautifully-bred Yet with a first-time tongue tie and she looks the type to relish a stiff 5f given the way she rallied when challenged at Dundalk.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy on Desert Dreamer at 13/1 from 9/1 earlier (The Star)
Racing Post remarks: “2-2 at Newmarket; dropping back to 5f should be fine; one for the shortlist.”
3.05pm Queen’s Vase, Royal Ascot (14 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid)
Silvestre De Sousa – Mark Johnston combo Dancing King at 7/1 from 13/2 earlier (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, Racing Post ‘Ace Tipster’, Daily Mail ’Northerner’ NAP, RP Ratings, The Star)
The Sun suggests: “He isn’t the flashiest but just keeps on winning, making it four in a row with another gutsy display at Doncaster last time.He is a proven stayer who likes the ground so should be right there again.”
Paul Kealy for Racing Post muses: “Aidan O’Brien and Mark Johnston have won 14 of the last 21 Queen’s Vases between them, and while the market favours O’Brien, Dancing King is just the tough sort of stayer Johnston excels with. He’s 4-4 in handicaps this season and did well to get up off a slow gallop last time.”
Keith Melrose for Racing Post comments: “This three-year-old keeps improving and can better his effort in a warm handicap last time granted a greater test.”
Racing Post adds: “4-4 in handicaps as 3yo, over 14.5f latest; form is up there with the best in this field.”
At The Races concludes: “Dancing King has kept on improving since being stepped up in trip and his recent handicap success at Doncaster entitles him to his place in this.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy on Ruling at 13/1
Racing Post says: “Big improvement over 1m4f, latterly when staying on well for close third in Listed race.”
3.40pm Duke of Cambridge Stakes, Royal Ascot (12 runners, 3 places)
Silvestre De Sousa – Sir Michael Stoute combo Queen Power at 17/4 (Guardian, The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’)
The Sun says: “She was third in this race 12 months ago and held her own in Group 1 company at Glorious Goodwood. This season started with an easy success at York last time and she can figure again.”
At The Races observes: “Queen Power won’t be far behind if their May Newmarket form is upheld when there was just a head between them, and the pair can fight out the finish again here. Sir Michael Stoute’s mare strolled home by eight lengths on her only start since at York in this grade and seems to be improving, making her a very serious challenger to the likely favourite.”
Racing Post adds: “Third in this last year and bolted up in 1m2f Group 2 at York last month; this is hotter.”
Also in the same race, Jim Crowley on Lavender’s Blue at 13/1 (Racing Post ‘Dark Horse’)
Jake Aldrich for Racing Post observes: “Form of her Dahlia Stakes third has worked out well and she is better off at the weights with the first and second. Her best form has come on fast ground and the drop back to a mile should suit.”
Racing Post less enthusiastic: “Form of Newmarket 3rd has worked out well but she seemingly has limitations at this level.”
Also in the same race, Hollie Doyle on Parent’s Prayer at 11/1 (POSTDATA, TOPSPEED, LAMBOURN)
Racing Post remarks: “Capitalised on easy lead at Epsom; possible she’ll again have run of race but not definite.”
5pm Royal Hunt Handicap, Royal Ascot (30 runners, 6 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid)
Oisin Murphy on Matthew Flinders at 8/1 from 15/2 earlier (The Sun ‘Longshot’, Racing Post NAP, LAMBOURN, SPOTLIGHT)
The Sun states: “He has shown promise in big fields and started this season with a good third at Newbury. He was forced out wide at York last time and has the champion jockey back on board today.”
Racing Post concludes: “The vote goes to MATTHEW FLINDERS (nap), who remains the type to win a race of this nature… It remains to be seen how the draw will pan out but Matthew Flinders gets the verdict and Oisin Murphy has options from stall 15. The selection should settle better than last time and remains the type to win a race of this nature.”
Also in the same race, Hollie Doyle – Richard Hannon combo Beat Le Bon at 33/1 from 18/1 earlier (Mirror)
Racing Post observes: “Strong finisher at Doncaster 12 days ago; due to go up 2lb in future; not ruled out.”
Also in the same race, Frankie Dettori – John and Thady Gosden combo Magical Morning at 6/1 (Racing Post ‘Eyecatcher’)
Mark Brown for Racing Post muses: “Absent since last year but there’s almost certainly more to come from him after being gelded and these conditions will suit.”
Racing Post adds: “Second to Matthew Flinders at Doncaster when last seen; open to further improvement.”
Also in the same race is our longshot for Day 2 of Royal Ascot 2021, Pat Hobbs – Richard Hughes combo Bugle Major at 160/1 from 100/1 earlier (Sporting Life)
Ben Linfoot for Sporting Life suggests; “Cases can be made for plenty in the Royal Hunt Cup, as always, with Magical Morning, Grove Ferry and Matthew Flinders forming just part of the shortlist. However, at a huge price BUGLE MAJOR makes each-way appeal for Richard Hughes.”
“The ex-Juddmonte horse had some good form in France for Pascal Bary, particularly on the all-weather tracks at Deauville and Chantilly, with his second to Magny Cours at the latter course in March well advertised by the winner who was third in the Dubai World Cup 25 days later. Bugle Major struggled on his British debut, but that was in a small field over 10 furlongs on soft ground and he should be much better suited by this test. His all-weather form is encouraging at sand-based Ascot and his sire, Mizzen Mast, has had a couple of Ascot winners in Silver Lime and Sea Defence from just 20 goes.”
Racing Post far from enthusiastic: “Ex-French gelding; only fifth of six at Newmarket on British debut.”
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Pictured top: Hollie Doyle and Amtiyaz after their win yesterday.
Matthew Steeples analyses the top tipsters’ selections for Day 1 of Royal Ascot 2021 and offers selections in 5 of the 7 races
Whilst Royal Ascot turned into an ‘At Home’ version with racing behind closed doors in 2020, 12,000 guests will be allowed to be attend on each of the five days of racing this week from today, Tuesday 15th, until Saturday, 19th June this year.
Forming part of the government’s events research programme with all present forced to complete two Covid-19 PCR tests and evidence of a negative lateral flow test on arrival on each day of attendance, the brilliant BATTAASH – sadly no longer cared for our since retired ‘Hero of the Hour’ groom Bob Grace – will be one of Day 1’s highlights to watch in the King’s Stand at 3.40pm. We hope to cheer him on to a second win, but though Winter Power looks the obvious threat, we’ve selected two others, Oinsin Murphy on King’s Lynn at 15/1 and Jason Hart on Liberty Beach at 13/1 in this 16-runner field.
Much loved by the public Bob Grace with also much loved by the public Battaash. In December 2020, ‘The Steeple Times’ made humble Mr Grace our ‘Hero of the Year’ for raising the spirits of the nation with his positivity. As one user concluded on Twitter: “Bob is wonderful, be like Bob.”
For the opening Day 1, Royal Ascot 2021, I am looking at EACH WAY BETS on:
3.05pm Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot (17 runners, 4 places)
Ryan Moore – AP O’Brien combo The Acropolis at 7/1 from 9/1 earlier (Radio 4, At The Races ’Top Tip’, Daily Record)
At The Races states: “THE ACROPOLIS fancied to give Aidan O’Brien his 10th win in the race after breaking through at Listowel.”
Racing Post adds: “Looked potentially smart at Listowel; trainer seeks a tenth win in this race; respected.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Andrew Balding combo Berkshire Shadow at 12/1 from 16/1 earlier (Guardian, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’)
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “It is two months since Berkshire Shadow made a winning debut at Newbury despite missing the break badly and running green for much of the race. Gisburn, who finished fourth, there, has since franked the form in style (and is a much shorter price to win for this contest) while Wesley Ward’s Kaufymaker gets the fillies’ allowance but the market seems to have forgotten about Berkshire Shadow, who can be backed at around 16-1.”
Racing Post less enthusiastic: “Did well to win after starting slowly at Newbury but the form hasn’t worked out that well.”
3.40pm – King’s Stand at Royal Ascot (16 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Jim Crowley – Charles Hills combo Battaash at 19/10 from 2/1 earlier (The Sun NB, GG.co.uk, Daily Mail ’Sam Turner’ and ‘Robin Goodfellow’, TOPSPEED, RP Ratings, LAMBOURN, Daily Express, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’)
Greg Wood for Guardian observes: “Battaash does not start at odds-against too often and won this first time up last season, so many punters will find 9-4 irresistible. His preparation has hardly been smooth, though, and in Winter Power he faces a fast-improving rival with both an age and sex allowance in her favour. The form of her easy success at York last month was franked by Atalis Bay, the runner-up, on Saturday.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail adds: “Battaash is currently unbeatable on his first start of the season and looks to boast major claims of defending his crown. The return of crowds may not be ideal for a horse which can sometimes be excitable, however the selection’s trainer believes his star sprinter is maturing.”
The Sun enthuses: “Won this last year and sets the standard again.”
Racing Post adds: “Battaash is the form horse but things have not gone smoothly in the run-up and preference is for OXTED ahead of Winter Power… Memorable sprinter, the form horse; won this in 2020; off since August; interrupted prep.”
At The Races concludes: “All eyes will be on Battaash, who has been king of the speedsters for the last few years and finally put his Royal Ascot hoodoo to bed with a dominant display in this 12 months ago. He has had an interrupted preparation, though, so can be taken on with WINTER POWER.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Andrew Balding combo King’s Lynn at 15/1 from 16/1 earlier
Racing Post remarks: “Lightly raced; latest 5f Listed win was an improvement; may well be capable of better yet.”
Also in the same race, Jason Hart – John Quinn combo Liberty Beach at 13/1 (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’)
The Sun states: “She was a good third in this race 12 months ago and has held her form well since. She battled well in muddy ground to score at Haydock on comeback and has more to offer as a four-year-old.”
4.20pm St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot (13 runners, 4 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Ryan Moore – AP O’Brien combo Battleground at 13/2 from 6/1 earlier (Radio 4)
Racing Post says: “An open St James’s Palace Stakes. Narrow preference is for LUCKY VEGA, with Battleground second choice ahead of Mostahdaf… Smart last year; unsuited by the Newmarket track in the 2,000 Guineas; remains of interest.”
Also in the same race, Lucky Vega at 7/1 (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, Sporting Life, SPOTLIGHT, Daily Telegraph, Guardian, Daily Mail ‘Gimcrack’ NAP)
The Sun suggests: “He was a Group 1 winner over 6f last season but has stepped up to a mile well twice this season with good runs in two Guineas. This quick ground will be ideal and he’s hard to keep out of the frame.”
Greg Wood for Guardian offers: “Poetic Flare is the marginal favourite overnight after a battling performance to win the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket and then a return to form in the Irish equivalent last time. He was just half-a-length in front of Lucky Vega (4.20) at Newmarket, however, and Jessica Harrington’s colt, who is likely to head to stud in Australia after the race on Tuesday, is the pick of the prices at around 7-1 to retire as a dual Group One winner.”
Matt Brocklebank for Sporting Life muses: “The money for Battleground is eyebrow-raising considering his ill-at-ease performance in the 2000 Guineas. Well backed that day when he looked a picture in the paddock, this good-looking son of Found has untapped potential and he won at this meeting last year in the Chesham.”
“However, all of the juice has been squeezed out of his odds now and it could be worth concentrating on the two horses that fought out the Guineas ahead of him at Newmarket – Poetic Flare and LUCKY VEGA. Preference is for the latter who is easily forgiven his subsequent Irish 2,000 Guineas fourth in heavy ground. He proved he got the mile well in the Guineas and running on better ground going round a bend should very much play to his strengths.”
Racing Post adds: “Close third in the 2,000 Guineas; the Irish version panned out less favourably; big player.”
5pm Ascot Stakes at Royal Ascot (20 runners, 5 places with Ladbrokes ’The Grid’)
Ben Curtis – Michael and David Easterby combo Elysian Flame at 15/1 (The Sun ‘Longshot’, Guardian, Daily Mail “Robin Goodfellow’ and ‘Gimcrack’)
The Sun states: “He stays this marathon trip well and got no luck when fifth in a fair race at Chester last time out.”
Greg Wood for Guardian suggests: “It feels like Cheltenham again with Willie Mullins and Rachael Blackmore both prominent in the betting but good-to-firm ground is a question mark for several of the Irish-trained runners. A similar query about Elysian Flame was largely dismissed by a win at Newbury in April and he stayed on strongly at Chester last time, suggesting this marathon trip could be just what he needs.”
Racing Post remarks: “Badly hampered at start in Chester Plate and ran on well for fifth, so still in fine form.”
Also in the same race, Franny Norton – Mark Johnston combo Trumpet Man at 18/1 (SPOTLIGHT, TOPSPEED)
Matt Brocklebank for Sporting Life shares: “Last year’s winner Coeur De Lion should be considered off just a 3lb higher mark. He stays all day and Alan King has swapped the cheekpieces for a visor – headgear he won in last year when it was applied for the first time. However, he was only a place ahead of TRUMPET MAN in the Chester Cup and Mark Johnston’s horse was unlucky in the run. He’s lightly raced for a Johnston four-year-old and has untapped potential over marathon trips, so a career-best effort could well be on the horizon.”
Racing Post offers: “Did not get the best of runs late on when fifth last time in the 2m2f Chester Cup.”
6.10pm Copper Horse Stakes at Royal Ascot (16 runners, 4 places)
Hollie Doyle – John & Thady Gosden combo Amtiyaz at 20/1 from 16/1 earlier (Sporting Life NAP)
Matt Brocklebank for Sporting Life muses: “AMTIYAZ is one of them in the concluding Copper Horse Handicap. He’s a well-bred, lightly-raced four-year-old representing John Gosden and Hollie Doyle so it’s surprising to see him at such a big price, especially when you dig a little deeper into his promising profile. A son of Frankel, he was unraced at two and immediately started out over 10 furlongs on his belated racecourse debut last August so he’s clearly a late-maturing colt who has always shown an abundance of stamina.”
“After breaking through at the fourth time of asking in a Newcastle novice over a mile and a half, he was nicely going through the handicap ranks over the winter, winning twice more from marks of 82 and 89, before having a couple of months off and returning on All Weather Championships Finals day at Lingfield on Good Friday. Sent off 9/2 third-favourite despite being the lowest rated in the field (had over 10lb to find with the two ahead of him in the market), it became a really messy race and it’s hard to believe he was seen in his best light given how the race developed into a dash for home from around three furlongs out.”
“Amtiyaz was also bumped about between Rainbow Dreamer and Australis on the final turn into the straight and he didn’t do too badly in the circumstances, since when the horse has been put away for a summer campaign. It’s fairly well documented how comfortably some all-weather specialists can translate their form to the Ascot track so while he was a fairly disappointing fifth at Lingfield on his only previous turf start, that doesn’t concern me much at all especially given his pedigree (out of a Dalakhani mare who’s from the family of the great Goldikova). Slightly easier ground might have been preferred in an ideal scenario though I’d say that’s more than factored into his price.”
“Amtiyaz is entered in the Northumberland Plate later in the month and he clearly stays two miles strongly but, if anything, that looks an asset here given there are six or seven who like to lead or race prominently and I’m quite keen on his chances getting 8lb from the penalised favourite Saldier.”
At The Races offers: “The vote, however, goes to AMTIYAZ. He was last seen disappointing on All-Weather Finals Day at Lingfield, but the son of Frankel now makes his debut on turf which has the potential to bring about further improvement.”
Racing Post adds: “3-8 on AW; fifth on only turf outing; improvement needed to defy a career-high mark.”
Also in the same race, Arthurian Fable at 17/2 from 8/1 earlier (Racing Post ‘Dark Horse’, Daily Telegraph, Guardian, Sporting Life)
Matt Brocklebank for Sporting Life offers: “Palavecino can have his own ideas and isn’t always the easiest of rides but a stiff mile and a quarter around Ascot promises to really suit the horse, who was far from disgraced behind Prince Of Wales’s contenders Armory (BHA mark 120) and Sangarius (114) in the Huxley Stakes last month on good to soft. Martin Dwyer knows him very well and will presumably look to bounce out from stall 11 before trying to dictate terms, or at least sit very handily. At 28/1 the chances of the talented individual hanging tough in the straight appear to be slightly underestimated.”
Greg Wood for Guardian remarks: “The consistent Arthurian Fable was gelded over the winter and looked as good as ever on his reappearance at Newmarket over Tuesday’s trip last month. His second at the Ebor meeting last season is strong form and while his ability to act on good-to-firm needs to be taken on trust, the same is true of Saldier, the warm favourite, and Brian Meehan’s runner is nearly four times the price.”
Sam Hardy for Racing Post enthuses: “Finished only two and a half lengths behind Global Storm on his seasonal reappearance when clearly needing the run. His sole win came on ground described as good to firm, so conditions will suit.”
Racing Post adds: “1-1 on good to firm ground; might have needed reappearance; should be in the mix.”
Sam Turner for Daily Mail concludes: “Arthurian Fable was an eye-catching fourth at HQ and should appreciate the better ground today.”
Elsewhere, I am favouring EACH WAY BETS on:
1.50pm Stratford-on-Avon (12 runners, 3 places)
Max Kendrick on Jessica Rabbit at 7/1 from 13/2 earlier (Sporting Life)
Sporting Life muses: “She’s been running well of late and JESSICA RABBIT can get her head back in front in the MansionBet’s Summer Of Love-ly Offers Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle. The form of her win at Doncaster in November has worked out well and she travelled strongly for a long way when third at Fontwell last time. She races from the same mark here and another good account is in the offing.”
Racing Post adds: “Opened account last November and returned from break with two good runs last month.”
Also in the same race, Nigel Twiston-Davies trained Nye Bevan at 17/4 from 4/1 earlier (Guardian, Daily Mail ‘Robin Good-fellow’, At The Races ‘Watch Out For’)
At The Races observes: “Nye Bevan has been in great form over the past few months and could have more to offer with cheekpieces applied for the first time.”
Racing Post adds: “Dual winner this spring; only third off 5lb lower last time but further progress possible.”
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Nikolay Kalinin shares his thoughts on Magdalen College removing a portrait of the Queen
At the postgraduate Magdalen College in Oxford, the students voted to remove a print of the Queen that was hung up in their Common Room in 2013, justifying their decision by stating that the figure represents “recent colonial history,” with one student saying that “patriotism and colonialism are not really separable”.
The removal of the picture has prompted instant backlash, with education secretary Gavin Williamson calling the decision “simply absurd,” while Piers Morgan wrote: “Can we vote to have Monarch-ordered Tower of London imprisonment powers restored for these insolent wastrels?”.
It seems ironic how people like Gavin Williamson supported a “university free speech bill” a month ago, but now are condemning the decision of the students to use that power of freedom of speech to take down a print through democratic means to a vote. This truly shows that to them freedom of speech is fine as long as it supports their own ideology.
Regarding the ideology behind the removal, I do not agree with the statement that patriotism is inseparable from colonialism, because you can still love Britain and condemn its colonial past. However, I do understand where the students come from, since the monarch was the head of the British empire, and therefore seen as responsible for some of its worst atrocities such as the Amritsar massacre.
Overall, I don’t necessarily agree with “cancelling” the Queen, but I do think that there should be more debate about Britain’s colonial past, how we should deal with it and what the monarchy means to this country nowadays.
The print of the Queen removed as part of Magdalen College students’ decision to invoke what some condemn as “cancel culture.”
Nikolay Kalinin analyses Laurence Fox’s decision to pull out of the Batley and Spen by-election and suggests this batty man’s days in politics are nearly numbered
As if Labour hasn’t had enough losses this year despite numerous revelations regarding the Conservative government’s utter incompetence, their retention of control over the Batley and Spen constituency is under serious jeopardy.
Fox also mentioned in his statement that a major reason for his decision to withdraw is the events at the Batley Grammar School, where a teacher was suspended and received death threats after showing a cartoon of Muhammed from the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, which Fox called “a blight on our free, tolerant, fair and democratic society.”
Nevertheless, Fox also mentioned in his statement that he would be inviting both Conservative and Labour candidates to a meeting with the citizens of the constituency “very soon to discuss tolerance in the UK.”
It’s very hard to understand how Reclaim could have split the vote had it stood in the election, but most likely they would have successfully capitalised on the grammar school incident. They would have probably have painted it as an oppression of freedom of speech, thereby convincing more right-wing people to vote and preventing the Conservatives from winning the seat.
One thing we can conclude from this episode however is that Fox is not intending to go anywhere anytime soon. Even though this loony was humiliated by YouTuber Niko Omilana at the recent London mayoral elections, he is showing great determination to make his party successful.
Still, we have to keep in mind that much of the reason why Reclaim is known by many people is because of Fox’s utter insanity and because the very, very wealthy financier Jeremy Hosking is strangely not yet tired of funding his operation. The people will eventually move on to better politicians, and Hosking will realise that his large investments into Fox’s party of clowns has not proved beneficial. All in all, the days of Laurence Fox’s political career are quite deservedly numbered.
Yesterday, seeking yet more attention, 43-year-old Laurence Fox took to Twitter to condemn the England squad as “millionaire woke babies” for taking the knee. He continued by suggesting he hopes England will lose in the first round of the Euros and added: “I’m embarrassed to be British.”
In spite of wasting a huge amount of Jeremy Hosking’s money – said to be upto £5 million – Laurence Fox’s 2021 London mayoral election campaign was an utter disaster. He won 47,634 votes, achieved just 1.9% of the vote and thus effectively spent £104.97 for every vote the Reclaim Party received. As a result, Fox lost his £10,000 deposit paid to London Elects, the Greater London Authority team responsible for organising the election of the Mayor of London and the London Assembly as he failed to achieve the 5% of votes or higher required to retain the deposit. The public, however, may now find themselves in a worse situation – Laurence Fox might return to making awful music condemned as “more Chelsea Travelodge than Chelsea Hotel.” Of it, in January 2020, the ‘Guardian’s’ Michael Hann observed: “Laurence Fox’s music doesn’t sound as if it had to exist. It sounds as if it exists because he had the wherewithal to make it, and because his name meant there would always be people willing to give it a plug. The very definition of privilege, really.”Aside from being the co-founder of Marathon Asset Management, University of Cambridge educated Jeremy Hosking is a shareholder in Crystal Palace F. C. as well as the owner of the Gravetye Manor hotel in Sussex. He previously funded the Conservative Party, Vote Leave and the Brexit Party prior to becoming financially involved with Laurence Fox’s Reclaim Party.In September 2020, ‘The Steeple Times’ suggested Laurence Fox had “morphed from a much loved tellybox treasure into a tedious twerp.” In the time since, he’s got even worse.
Matthew Steeples selects three ‘dark horse’ options for the Epsom Derby 2021 at 13/1, 8/1 and 15/1 as well as options for three earlier races
Sometimes referred to as the ‘Blue Riband,’ the Epsom Derby is considered the best of the five Classics.
Inaugurated in 1780 and originally sponsored by the Earl of Debry, this 1 mile, 4 furlongs and 6 yards Group 1 flat race is open to three-year-old colts and fillies. It inspired the 1952 film Derby Day starring Michael Wilding and Anna Neagle and aside from having been won by Lester Piggott nine times, its leading trainer has been Aidan O’Brien with eight winners to date.
In 2019 and 2020, O’Brien scored victories with Anthony Van Dyck and Serpentine and today the heavily backed favourite is his single runner, Bolshoi Ballet at 3/2 (Radio 4, The Sun NAP, GG.co.uk, Daily Mail ‘Robin Goodfellow’ and ‘Gimcrack’ NAP).
Opting for slightly ‘darker horses,’ my selections for this cracking spectacle and three earlier races follow.
Roger Varian hopes to land the Cazoo Derby with Third Realm “after waiting seven years to find the ‘right horse’ following Kingston’s Hill’s second place” in 2014, according to the ‘Daily Mail’s’ Marcus Townend. Varian has branded the Sheik Mohammed Obaid owned horse “a relaxed character” and “a cool dude.”The £1.125 million Group One Cazoo Derby is considered the jewel in the crown of British flat racing and of Charlie Appleby’s One Ruler, ‘Wigan Today’ remark: “The forgotten horse in the line-up. Sixth in the 2000 Guineas, but the step up in trip should be the making of him. An interesting each-way player.”
Roger Varian trained Third Realm at 13/1 from 14/1 earlier (The Sun ‘Longshot’)
The Sun states: “Can spring a surprise in the Derby. He won the Lingfield Trial fair and square and is one of the few in the field with proven staying power.”
Racing Post remarks: “Convincing winner of Lingfield Derby Trial (soft); a handy type who can improve further.”
Also in the same race, J. S. Bolger trained Mac Swiney at 8/1 from 15/2 earlier (RP Ratings, Daily Express, The Star, Daily Record)
Greg Wood for Guardian offers: “On balance, and unless his price drifts abruptly, Bolshoi Ballet looks worth opposing with an each-way alternative, and Hurricane Lane and Mac Swiney are the most obvious candidates with the form and potential to make them plausible winners. Mac Swiney’s odds began to contract as the ground eased on Friday but 11-2 is still a fair price for a colt who had enough class to land a Guineas last time but will surely be better still at 12 furlongs.”
Racing Post adds: “Two Group 1 wins on testing going, the latter in Irish 2,000 Guineas; likely to stay 1m4f.”
Also in the same race, James Doyle – Charlie Appleby combo One Ruler at 15/1 from 22/1 earlier (Sporting Life)
Matt Brocklebank for Sporting Life shares: “The value may now lie with ONE RULER, one of Charlie Appleby’s trio, who also enjoys ease underfoot and isn’t badly position either ‘out wide’ in stall 11 (they turn right-handed to begin with, don’t forget).”
“He ran consistently as a two-year-old and his juvenile form ties in really well with some of the other leading Derby contenders in that he beat Maximal a length and a half in a Sandown maiden, with that horse subsequently beaten a length into second behind Hurricane Lane at Newbury in April, and signed off in October with a narrow defeat to Mac Swiney in desperate conditions in the Group One Vertem Futurity Trophy at Doncaster.”
“Prior to that he’d beaten subsequent top-class winner Van Gogh in the Group Three Autumn Stakes at Newmarket, form that has worked out quite nicely with the fourth Megallan pushing Hurricane Lane close in the Dante last month. He ran consistently as a two-year-old and his juvenile form ties in really well with some of the other leading Derby contenders in that he beat Maximal a length and a half in a Sandown maiden, with that horse subsequently beaten a length into second behind Hurricane Lane at Newbury in April, and signed off in October with a narrow defeat to Mac Swiney in desperate conditions in the Group One Vertem Futurity Trophy at Doncaster.”
“Prior to that he’d beaten subsequent top-class winner Van Gogh in the Group Three Autumn Stakes at Newmarket, form that has worked out quite nicely with the fourth Megallan pushing Hurricane Lane close in the Dante last month. He’ll travel into it better than most, I suspect, and it’s well worth highlighting the fact Appleby’s sole Derby success to date came via Masar, who was a 16/1 drifter on the day based on the fact many (even those closest to him) doubted his stamina for 12 furlongs after a good third in the Guineas.”
Racing Post less enthusiastic: “Chased home Mac Swiney on final 2yo run; not guaranteed to stay 1m4f on pedigree.”
Turning to earlier races at Epsom Downs, I also suggest:
2pm Epsom Downs (8 runners, 3 places)
Mark Johnston trained Chase The Dollar at 17/2 from 8/1 earlier (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, SPOTLIGHT, Racing Post)
The Sun suggests: “He went close at Newcastle last time and looks on a fair weight in an open contest.”
Racing Post adds: “This race may principally concern Patient Dream and the Mark Johnston runners King Frankel and CHASE THE DOLLAR… Battled to a narrow defeat at Newcastle (1m2f, AW) latest; can make further improvement.”
Oisin Murphy – Ralph Beckett combo Patient Dream at 14/5 from 11/4 earlier (Racing Post ‘Ace Tipster’, Daily Telegraph, Daily Express, The Star, Daily Record)
Keith Melrose for Racing Post muses: “Beat a host of subsequent improvers at the track last time and is bound to be suited by this step up in trip.”
Racing Post adds: “8.5f win here on reappearance; races freely but he’s bred to be well suited by 1m2f+.”
At The Races concludes: “It may be worth taking him on with the course experience of PATIENT DREAM here though. Ralph Beckett’s showed a real liking for this idiosyncratic venue when successful over shorter last time and the step up in trip could help him overcome a 7lb hike.”
2.35pm Epsom Downs (8 runners, 3 places)
Oisin Murphy on Parent’s Prayer at 19/4 from 9/2 earlier (Radio 4, TOPSPEED)
Racing Post remarks: “Listed winner on soft last October; might not be far away.”
Tony Carroll trained Recon Mission at 17/2 (The Sun ‘Each Way Thief’, Guardian)
The Sun says: “He won well here last time and not all horses handle this helter-skelter track. He can strike again.”
Greg Wood for Guardian reserves: “Recon Mission and Ray Dawson were ready winners over track and trip in April and Tony Carroll’s gelding has a fair chance of a follow-up from a 3lb higher mark.”
Racing Post adds: “Won in April (good) on the second of two C&D starts; best form would see him thereabouts.”
Hans Solo Berger at 18/1 from 16/1 earlier (Racing Post ‘Dark Horse’)
Sam Hardy for Racing Post muses: “Consistent type who looks potentially well handicapped given he is rated 5lb higher on the all-weather. Jockey George Wood is bidding for his third win aboard the Chris Wall-trained six-year-old.”
Racing Post adds: “Ran well at Ascot in April but hasn’t been back here since one go in 2018.”
Also in the same race, Oisin Murphy – Andrew Balding combo Stone Of Destiny at 15/2 from 7/1 earlier (POSTDATA, The Sun, Daily Telegraph, GG.co.uk)
The Sun shares: “Consistent and another good run at Goodwood latest.”
Racing Post says: “Close 2nd over 5f at Goodwood latest; a slow starter who will need luck in running.”
At The Races less enthusiastic: “It usually pays to focus on those drawn high. Stone Of Destiny is one such horse but his tendency to start slowly is a big negative.”
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After ‘Bingate’ comes ‘Custard Cream Gate’ in ritzy Henley-on-Thames with a red kite attacking a toddler for a custard cream
It’s all go in posh, leafy Henley-on-Thames: Aside from a binman spotting a wallaby bounding in its vicinity in 2017 and the ongoing battle about bins – as featured in The Steeple Times in January and February this year – the latest drama in the locality comes in the form of a red kite attacking a toddler for a sweet treat.
According to Sky News, 2-year-old Frankie Bird – a little lad with a surname clearly suited to this story – was given a biscuit by his granny outside the town’s Valley Road primary school on 10th May and was then swooped upon by a bird of prey for it.
Speaking to the news channel, the child’s mother, Hannah Bird, remarked:
“My mother-in-law gave Frankie a snack – which was a custard cream – and a red kite came down and took it out of his hand, flinging it to the ground.”
“The bird kept coming at Frankie to try and find the biscuit, not realising it was on the floor, which was quite scary, it just kept coming.”
“We had to take him to the local hospital just to get it checked, because the birds eat all sorts, so we wondered whether we needed to get it cleaned properly. It was quite a shock”
Going further Sky sensibly added: “Hannah added that her son has made a full recovery and that she doesn’t want red kites to get a bad reputation,” before she then continued:
“You know, you need to be able to eat in your garden in peace and my son should be able to have a biscuit snack in his pushchair.”
“I think part of me worries for the birds – if they’re this brazen and they’re not frightened anymore, they are not wild anymore. And what does that mean for them, really?”
Referencing the red kites of Henley-on-Thames in a more humorous manner yesterday, the Guardian’s ‘Pass Note’ column provided further examples of them swooping to share snacks. They reported:
“Ouch! Local resident Anna Howell was eating a salad in her back garden when a kite swooped down and helped itself to a bit of smoked mackerel.”
“There have also been local reports of stolen sausage rolls and hot cross buns, and even steaks lifted off barbecues.”
“The birds were well known as opportunistic thieves in Shakespeare’s time, but in between they were hunted to near extinction.”
“Do say: “Red kite at morning, get under the awning!”
“Don’t say: “Red kite at regatta, talons off my piccata.”
Elsewhere previously, indicating the propensity of red kites to go for sweet treats in June 2016, the Mirror reported on another raptor attempting to steal a cupcake from a 3-year-old, Ava Edgar-Francis, at her outdoor birthday party at Watlington Park, near Stokenchurch.
Speaking of the incident, the girl’s hysterical mother, Debbie Francis, blubbed: “It was such a shock and she is now petrified every time she sees a big bird in the sky.”
Little Frankie Bird poses for Sky News and shows his injured hand.Frankie Bird suffered scratches as a result of the bird’s attack.According to the RSPB, “magnificently graceful” red kites mainly eat “carrion and worms, but opportunistic and will occasionally take small mammals.” They estimate there to be 4,600 breeding pairs in the UK and of them stealing domestic food, Wikipedia observe: “In the United Kingdom, there have been several unusual instances of red kites stealing food from people in a similar manner to gulls. One such occurrence took place in Marlow, Buckinghamshire (a town near a major reintroduction site for the species in the UK in the nearby village of Stokenchurch), in which Red Kites swooped down to steal sandwiches from people in one of the town’s parks.”The BBC reported on Henley-on-Thames’ roaming wallabies in 2017. Plainly this is a place where wildlife does as it wishes.
