Category Archives: NTF Q&A

NTF Q&A – Jamie Snowden

Written on May 15, 2013 by in NTF Q&A

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NTF Q&A

Name – Jamie Snowden

Occupation – Racehorse trainer

Years involved in racing – 18 years

First horseracing memory – Desert Orchid winning the 1989 Gold Cup

 

Background

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?

Jumping at speed – loved the idea of becoming a jockey…..

What was the main reason behind you becoming a trainer? 

I loved watching people train, and after picking up different ideas, I wanted to see if I could do the same.

 

Career to date

Proudest moment of career to date?

As a trainer it has to be winning the Summer National.  As a jockey it was certainly winning for the Queen.

Best horse you have trained?

Marodima or Knighton Combe

Which race involving one of your own horses stands out in your memory and why?

 Ixora winning at Cheltenham – it was our first Cheltenham winner.

 

In the trainers seat

Most enjoyable aspect of being a trainer? 

Seeing the delight on owners faces when you train them a winner.

How many horses do you currently have in training and do you plan on expanding? 

We have 30 horses, and are just building a few more boxes over the summer.

What is the one major advantage of your current training location?

The amazing gallops we have on offer here in Lambourn.

What is the best facility you have at your disposal for training the horses?

(i.e. terrain, gallop, walker, schooling ground…) There are so many different facilities here, but the best would have to be the all weather gallops.

Who has been the biggest influence on your training career?

Nicky Henderson.

How do you see the yard progressing in the coming year(s)?

I hope that we continue to improve the quality of the horses we have here to train, and increase the numbers in the yard to about 60.

How do you try and bring new owners into the yard?

Encouraging owners to spend a lot of time at the yard, making them feel they have been involved in the training aspect, being open with them and discussing plans and welcoming them into the house and making ownership about the whole package (yard and track)

 

In the jockeys seat

What do you miss the most about your days in the saddle?

The ability to ride winners, have a shower and walk away…..

What was the main aspect that you carried over from you riding days into the training ranks?

The ability to ‘get into a horses mind’.

Do you still regularly ride out at the yard or do you leave that up to others? 

I tend not to anymore, but I will throw my leg over now and again to get a feeling of a horse.

 

Wish list

Which horse currently in training to you wish you had in your yard? 

It has to be Sprinter Sacre – he’s a machine……

What race (that you had a runner in) do you wish you could re-run (good or bad)?

Lester Leaps In was our first ever runner and he was beaten a short head at Bangor – I wish we could re run it, and pinch another length here or there…..

Which race do you wish you had a ‘live contender’ for?

The Gold Cup

 

Racing and the general public

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

A greater emphasis on syndicates, and how cheaply you can be involved – the idea of having university syndicates as well.  At the end of the day we have to get the younger generation involved.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

 I think that social media certainly has a place, as we have to move with the times.  Further promotion of the sport can be achieved through ownership such as the Daily Mirror Punters Club.

 

Improving the sport

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing -

a) on-course? Courses looking after owners better.

b) off-course? A more suitable race programme split into a winter season and a summer season, with a weeks gap between the two.

 

Horses to follow

Which horse in the yard should we look out for in 2013/14?

Present View

Are there any Dark horses in the yard to follow for this season?

Joanne One

Which of your older horses still has the ability to surprise us in the future?

Ixora

Name a horse to follow for this season (outwith own yard)?

Sybarite

 

Quickfire

Aintree Grand National or Cheltenham Gold Cup? Grand National

Walsh or McCoy? Walsh

Nicholls or Henderson? Tricky – Nicholls, but both have been very good to me.

At the track or in the yard? Both…..!

 

Just for fun

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?

Have the ability to stop horses from bleeding…..I’d be a very rich man!!!

 

Many thanks to Jamie for taking part in the latest NTF Q&A session.

Jamie has his own website where you can keep up to date with all the stable news >>> http://www.jamiesnowdenracing.co.uk/

On the website there is also news on the Jamie Snowden Racing Club. Their Stormy Oscar just ran a solid 2nd at Worcester on his latest start and is now qualified for a handicap mark.

You can also Follow Jamie on Twitter – @jamiesnowden

Ben (NTF)

 

 

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NTF Q&A – Matt Chapman

Written on December 2, 2012 by in NTF Q&A

 

NTF Q&A

Name – Matt Chapman

Occupation – Freelance TV presenter/journalist

Years involved in racing - 20yrs

First horseracing memory – Shergar’s Derby romp in 1981

 

Background…

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?

The same thing that makes kids today love computer games – solving the puzzle. Everyone likes to be right in life, and horse racing provides a great platform to be proved right. Is there any better feeling – outside of the bedroom – than studying a race, weighing up the pros and cons and then the result going as you thought? Not many. Add to that speed, danger and an abundance of characters and you have a real mixture to alert the mind.

What was your first job in the sport?

The day after I left University I joined the International racing Bureau in Newmarket. There were then four in the IRB’s editorial department, and I was at the bottom. But it gave me a fantastic knowledge of international racing. I had spent one day a week during my last year at Uni on the Independent news desk, subbing race cards and stuff like that. John Cobb provided me with the chance and I can’t thank him enough. Paul Hayward, Richard Edmondson and Greg Wood were there at the time so a fine trio to learn from.

How did you become involved in the presenting side of things?

Towards the end of my days on the Racing Post news desk (eight years) I begged the then Racing Channel for a screen test. George Irvine, in charge in those days, gave me a chance, mainly on the then Stateside show that had a big following. When I worked with Dave Compton we could go on until 1am and have 100 emails we hadn’t had time to read out. It had a kind of cult (that’s cult) following!

 

Career to date…

Proudest moment of career to date?

Considering my family have absolutely no background or relationship with horse racing I am proud of where I am. That said, to be able to call Sir Henry Cecil a friend is something dreams are made of and, of course, it was special to be voted 2010 HWPA Broadcaster of the Year and winner of the 2010 Racing Post Broadcasters’ World Cup.

Is there anything you have been embarrassed about in your career?

No. That said, plenty I have been disappointed over. People might read this and think – “hold on Matt, didn’t you say Pour Moi couldn’t win the Derby, and William’s Wishes couldn’t win at Ascot”. Yes I did. But I am not embarrassed by that. I put my neck on the line. I don’t have to, as a presenter I don’t have to ever give a selection in any race. But we all have opinions and sometimes we will be right, and sometimes wrong. The difference is that the public want presenters to be wrong. Why? Because it comes back to the puzzle aspect. The kick you get in racing is finding your own winners, not someone else finding you a winner. I tip winners and never hear a word about it, I tip a loser and the world caves in! I have also been disappointed with my presenting on occasions. I don’t think anyone has ever seen the best of me. But the nature of the things I present means I am restricted in what I can do.

Are you happy with the path your career has taken so far and what path do you see yourself taking in the coming years?

It’s not been easy, but I know I have a following amongst younger racegoers and I am proud of that.  I also know if my job was for sale on Ebay there would be thousands of bids for it. I am very lucky. That said, it may not be up to me how long I present for – as a freelance you never know when you are going to work. I had two dreams, to commentate and get on Channel 4 Racing and I have failed at both. I believe I could have brought energy to the C4 show.  You have to remember that racing presenters are essentially irrelevant – people who like horse racing and betting will watch whoever is presenting. So what you have to do as a presenter is make people think “I wonder what he will do today or say about that”. Being wallpaper is not what it is about for me. That does not mean you have to be controversial, it’s about having strong opinions and not being afraid to say what you think. It’s also about living and breathing horse racing. And I’m not sure many racing presenters do that. The future, though, is a worry for me…I wish I could answer the question.

 

In the presenters chair…

Most enjoyable aspect of being a racing presenter?

Being paid to watch the sport I love.

How much ‘homework’ do you undertake before each days racing?

I would say none. But in reality it’s 24-hour ongoing. Watching every race and keeping on top of news is constant work.

Best and worst aspects of being a racing presenter?

In the past, the best part of the job was when I used to interview trainers and jockeys on the old ATR. There are so many characters out there. There are no bad aspects, although obviously you have to cope with constant abuse on forums etc etc

In your opinion what makes a good racing broadcaster/presenter?

Not really a question for me to answer. I would say a clear voice, ability to think quickly, ability to express yourself. Cope with someone screaming in your ear while you are trying to hold a conversation with someone else. An ability to ask the right questions. And I think it is important to be liked and disliked. Be able to put your guest at ease. Most importantly every presenter should have watched every race run every day. I cringe when I hear people say they have not seen a race. No excuse, and viewers know instantly if a presenter has not seen what they are talking about. If it means staying up until 4.00am and going to work at 6.00am then that is what you do.

Which racing pundits and commentators do you respect the most?

Hmmm. I have little time for racing pundits/tipsters or guests – although that’s not to say they are not lovely people. Most are bluffers. They churn out cliché after cliché. You simply would not be a pundit if you were that good at picking winners. That said, I could listen to James Willoughby and Hugh Taylor at length. John Hunt and Simon Holt are my favourite commentators (nothing original there).

 

Wish list…

Is there any comment you wish you had never made and could erase from history?

Any horse that I have said couldn’t win and did. I am not going to list them all here…..not enough space! I criticised a starter once in Ireland – that went down badly. Last year I presented the HWPA awards badly  – I wish I could do it again but Nick Luck always wins Broadcaster of the Year so will always present the awards.

Which sporting event from history (out with racing) do you wish you had been in the presenting chair for?

Any transfer deadline day on Sky Sports news.

Which other sporting event would you like to have the opportunity to present in the future?

Soccer Saturday.

 

Racing and the general public…

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

Improve the spectacle and bring the characters to the people. Racecourses are often the worst place to watch a race – that can’t be right. And there is no excuse for basic food and drink to be bonkers prices.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

Without doubt. Racing is being talked about more than ever before, and it’s possible for ‘normal’ people to have conversations with people they could only imagine chatting to. Jockeys and trainers have a real chance to communicate with the public and they should do so as much as possible. Twitter is without doubt the best place for racing news.

Do you think racing is viewed in a positive or negative manner by the ‘non racing’ public?

Tricky question. People worried about gamblers will look at it badly, and animal ‘lovers’ who don’t understand the sport will look at it badly.

 

Improving the sport…

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing -

a) on-course? Reasonable facilities – from loos to viewing positions.

b) off-course? A BHA-run Betting exchange.

 

Horses to follow…

Which National Hunt horse are you looking forward to following this season?

Don Cossack, trained by Gordon Elliott. He’s a giant and is going to be a fabulous chaser one day.

Dark horse to follow for the 2012/13 NH season?

Buckers Bridge (not that dark, as unbeaten in two for Henry de Bromhead).

Which novice has impressed you most so far this season?

Tarla (Willie Mullins)

Which horse are you looking forward to following during the 2013 flat season?

I think Certify is a big price at 8-1 for the 1,000 Guineas.

 

Quickfire…

Cheltenham Gold Cup or Epsom Derby? Gold Cup

A P McCoy or Ruby Walsh? Equally brilliant in different situations. McCoy if my life depended on it and the horse needed to be ridden for a circuit!

On course or in the studio? Studio on the old ATR, on course now.

RUK or Channel 4 Racing?  Channel 4 for 90 days.

 

Just for fun…

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?

Being able to see into the future, or just to the end of a 3m novice chase would be useful!

 

Many thanks to Matt for taking part in the latest NTF Q&A session.

Follow Matt on Twitter – @MCYeeehaaa

Ben (NTF)

 

 

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NTF Q&A – George Bewley

Written on November 14, 2012 by in NTF Q&A

 

NTF Q&A

Name – George Bewley

Occupation – Farmer/ Racehorse trainer

Years involved in racing  – Rode in first point to point in 1990 and had point to pointers until took license out in 2008

First horseracing memory – Red rum winning its 1st Grand National

 

Background…

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?

Always went to the races with my father since I was a very young boy.

What was the main reason behind you becoming a trainer?

Lifelong ambition to train horses.

 

Career to date…

Proudest moment of career to date?

Geordies Express winning the Buccleuch Cup in 2000. This was my first racecourse win and in such a prestigious racer, meant a lot

Best horse you have trained?

Inoogoo

Which race involving one of your own horses stands out in your memory and why?

Again Geordies Express winning the Buccleuch Cup as it was my first race course win. Nicozetto winning at Kelso whilst my son Jonathon has a winner down at Cheltenham on the same day also stands out in my memory.

 

In the trainers seat…

Most enjoyable aspect of being a trainer?

The look and actions of owners once their horse has won, it’s great to be involved in.

How many horses do you currently have in training and do you plan on expanding?

Currently have 9 and would like to expand to around 15. I don’t want to be a big trainer with over 50 in; I want to keep a small string of good horses.

What is the one major advantage of your current training location?

The natural facilities, hills and river frontage.

What is the best facility you have at your disposal for training the horses?

1000 acres farm. I own 1000 acres of mixed terrain, from steep hills to flat land with varied scenery and different gradient gallops. I find this the key to training horses.

How do you cope with the bad weather that can hit the borders in the winter time?

We do have a small indoor school but try best we can to get the horses out as much as possible, this can prove difficult though.

How do you see the yard progressing in the coming year?

Hope to continue going from strength to strength and to fill the remaining 5 stables would be good.

 

Wish list…

Which horse currently in training to you wish you had in your yard?

Sprinter Sacre

What race (that you had a runner in) do you wish you could re-run (good or bad)?  

Inoogoo’s recent run at Aintree. I feel if the fences had been included on the home straight he would have been much closer. He was squeezed out slightly on the run in and this sacrificed a place or maybe two

Which race do you wish you had a ‘live contender’ for?

Gold Cup

 

Racing and the general public…

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

Very difficult one but I fell additional terrestrial TV coverage would help.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

Twitter has especially helped increase my profile, I think it is a great way of getting information out to potential owners and fans. Very handy being able to view goings and issues on twitter first thing, it stops me having to log on to my racing admin account.

 

Improving the sport…

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing…

a) on-course? Increased prize money – luckily I heard there was a planned increased for 2013.

b) off-course? Again more TV coverage

 

Horses to follow…

Which horse in the yard should we look out for in 2012/13?

Our Joey

Are there any Dark horses in the yard to follow for this season?

Brae On

Which of your older horses still has the ability to surprise us in the future?

Teerie Express

Name a horse to follow for this season (out with own yard)?

Edmund of Ann Hamilton’s. I like the horse a lot but they have been unlucky with him.

 

Quickfire…

Scottish Grand National or Cheltenham Gold Cup? Gold Cup

Walsh or McCoy? McCoy

Nicholls or Henderson? Nicholls

Stiff Whisky or a cup of cocoa? Whisky!!

 

Just for fun…

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?

Speak and listen to horses – would make my job far easier if they could tell me what was wrong with them!!

 

George Bewley is based in Bonchester Bridge in the Scottish Borders and has been training Point-to-Pointers and Hunters Chasers for numerous years. He took out a full licence in 2008 and has been showing steady progress year upon year.

So far in the 2012/13 National Hunt season the yard has a superb strike rate of 23% (7 winners from only 31 runners) and is set to have a couple of runners at this weekends Open meeting at Cheltenham (16th – 18th November).

George also has an excellent website which is updated on a regular basis and I thoroughly recommend you all take a look to see what this up and coming yard has to offer.

You can visit the George Bewley website at the following address – www.georgebewleyracing.co.uk

You can also follow George on Twitter where he regularly tweets his thoughts - @BewleyRacing

 

I would like to thank George for taking part in this NTF Q&A session and look forward to plenty more winners from the yard this season.

Ben (NTF)

 

 

 

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NTF Q&A – Paul Brierley

Written on August 1, 2012 by in NTF Q&A

 

Name – Paul Brierley

Occupation – Jockey Agent (BB Jockey Management)

Years involved in racing – As an owner from 1997

First horseracing memory – Sedgefield races with my Dad in the late 70s when Ridley Lamb, Nigel Tinkler and Chris Grant were riding, with the legend Arthur Stephenson training the winners.

 

Background…

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?

My Dad took me along and I was hooked straight away.

What was your first job in the horseracing world?

Racing Secretary for Lucy Normile.

How did you become involved in the jockey management side of horseracing?

I was asked by the late Campbell Gillies to be his agent in October 2011 and it has snowballed since then, I now have 21 jockeys on my books.

 

Career to date…

Proudest moment of career to date?

It has to be seeing Campbell and Brindisi Breeze winning at Cheltenham.

Which race involving one of your jockeys stands out in your memory and why?

Outlaw Tom winning at Hexham in November, my first winner as an agent but even more special as I run the partnership that owns Tom.

Which race involving one of your jockeys do you wish you could relive and run again (good or bad)? 

It was a run of the mill race, but Ormus falling at the last at Sedgefield when coming to win, Chris and Julie Wilson train and own him and it would have meant a lot to them if Campbell had rode them a winner.

 

In the jockey management chair…

Most enjoyable aspect of being a jockey’s agent?

Having winners, no bigger buzz.

How much ‘homework’ do you undertake before booking rides?

I check all horses’ lifetime form, looking to see if they would have an edge in the race, also checking to see if any of the lads have had any connection to the horse, trainer or even owners.

How much ‘homework’ do you undertake after a race involving one of your jockeys?

Every race is recorded; I watch 95% of the races live. I call every jockey after a day’s racing to chat about the races.

What is the toughest part of your job?

The weather!!! It has been a tough summer and all the jockeys have lost a small fortune due to meetings being called off. In our industry a loss of a day’s racing will mean a loss of wages.

How do you handle a jockey who is going through a purple patch?

The same as any other day. Keep them focused, talk to them about rides, no reason to change the way we approach things.

How do you help a jockey deal with a losing run?

Exactly the same as a purple patch.

How do you see BB Jockey Management progressing in the coming months/years?

The company has grown and we are established now. I had to prove to people it could be done and the fact I have 21 jockeys proves that it is working. I hope to expand onto the flat, but that might be the second phase of the business.

 

Wish list…

Which jockey do you wish you had been given the opportunity to manage?

AP McCoy

Which horse do you wish you could book one of your jockeys for?

Sprinter Sacre

Which other sport would you like to take on the management/agent role in?

Golf

Which sportsperson (past) would you like to have had on your books?

Seve Ballesteros

Which sportsperson (present) would you like to have on your books?

Lionel Messi

 

Racing and the general public…

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

We must offer a good package to the punters, entrance fees and food/drinks can be overpriced, especially during the week at smaller tracks, they need to attract people with good deals.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

Well I tweet and have a facebook account and it seems to be good. The world and his dog is into social media so the free exposure should be grabbed by the industry to promote itself.

 

Improving the sport…

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing -

a) on-course? It has to be prize money, it’s shocking, there are no excuses for pathetic first place prize-money, eg £1.600 for winning.

b) off-course? The industry needs to be united, we have far too many “In house” squabbles and if we all pulled together it would be a better sport.

 

Jockeys, Trainers and Horses to follow…

Which (Pro) jockey currently on your books should we look out for in 2012/13?

Ewan Whillans deserves great credit, he works very hard and he is very underrated.

Which (Conditional) jockey currently on your books should we look out for in 2012/13?

I have 10 so I must not upset any of them, Alex Voy, Stephen Mulqueen, Adam Nicol and Steven Fox have started the season well, but the other boys will be biting at their ankles.

Which National Hunt horse are you looking forward to following in the 2012/13 season?

Sprinter Sacre

Name a dark horse to follow for the 2012/13 NH season?

Dotties Dillema (Lucinda Russell)

Name an up and coming trainer to keep an eye on?

Lucinda Russell is established but will be a big gun in the north, Philip Kirby is one who could be one to watch, he does very well with what he has and deserves a nice horse or two.

 

Quickfire…

Paul Nicholls or Nicky Henderson?

Nicky Henderson

A P McCoy or Ruby Walsh?

A P McCoy

Perth in the summertime or Cheltenham in the wintertime?

Cheltenham, Perth has had no summer!!!

Which do you prefer – Feet up or too busy to stop?

Too Busy

 

Just for fun…

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why? 

Invisible, because every time go racing all I get asked for is tips!!! 

 

Paul Brierley set up the BB Jockey Management Agency with his partner Samantha Burns in October 2011. They are primarily based in the North of England and Scotland and currently have 21 jockeys on their books, a number that is growing all the time.

Amongst the jockeys currently on Paul’s books are Ewan Whillans, Jan Faltejsek, Alistair Findlay, Barry Keniry and Michael McAlister as well as a selection of promising condition jockeys including Grant Cockburn, Steven Fox, Craig Gallagher and Nathan Moscrop.

Paul was also the jockey agent to the late, and greatly talented, Campbell Gillies.

If you want to know more about Paul and BB Jockey Management then please visit - www.bbjockeymanagement.com

Many thanks to Paul for taking part in this NTF Q&A session and lets hope there will be more Cheltenham Festival success for one of his jockeys to follow on from Campbell’s superb victory aboard Brindisi Breeze last March.

 

Ben (NTF)

 

 

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NTF Q&A – Campbell Gillies

Written on March 29, 2012 by in NTF Q&A

 

Name – Campbell Gillies

Occupation – Professional Jockey

Years involved in racing – 2006 to present

First horseracing memory – Best Mate winning his 3rd Gold Cup. Both myself and Zander Voy were meant to be at School, but we ended up watching the Gold Cup!

 

Background

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?

My Grandad trained pointers in the borders.

How did you become involved in the jockey side of horseracing?

My Grandad again, he has horses with Willie Amos and he took me to the yard and that’s when I wanted to be a jockey.

 

Career to date

Proudest moment of career to date?

Brindisi Breeze and Lie Forrit. I can’t split them as Brindisi Breeze was my first festival winner and Lie Forrit won at Cheltenham for my family.

Which race that you personally rode in stands out in your memory and why?

Albert Bartlett on Brindisi Breeze, as he made virtually all to win a Grade 1, a sign of a very good horse.

Which race do you wish you could relive and ride again (good or bad)?

Aintree when Lie Forrit unseated at the second last and I got injured, he would have won easy.

 

In the saddle

Most enjoyable aspect of being a jockey?

Riding winners for the owners and seeing their faces when a horse wins.

How much ‘homework’ do you undertake before each race?

Both myself and Paul Brierley, my agent, discuss all races either the night before or on phone on the way to races.

Which area of race riding do you consider to be the most important?

Positional sense, you need to know what is going on around you, sometimes Plan A becomes Plan B.

How thoroughly do you analyse your own performance after the race has been run?

I watch re-runs and then speak to Paul (agent) to see what he thinks.

Best and worst tracks from a riding perspective?

Best is Ayr, a very fair track and I’ve had some good success there. Worst is Catterick, large fields with moderate horses.

How do you deal with losing runs?

Start again the next day and never dwell; you need to be positive in this game.

Which jockey(s) have had the biggest influence on your own career?

Peter Buchanan and Peter Scudamore have been brilliant with me, from the first day at Lucinda’s they are always giving you tips and good advice.


Wish list

Which race do you wish you had been given the opportunity to ride in?

Grand National, hopefully soon though!!

Which horse (past or present) do you wish you had the opportunity to ride?

Kauto Star, he’s a horse all jockeys would love to ride.

Which other sporting event do you wish you had been able to take part in?

Rugby Union World Cup (Campbell’s brother, Findlay Gillies plays Rugby for Glasgow Warriors).

Which other sporting event would you like to have the opportunity to be involved in?

Grand Prix. It must be some thrill going at over 200mph!!!


Racing and the general public

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

The way the current economic climate is we need to give good value for money, a family of 4 going racing won’t get much change out of £100 by the time they have entry fees, food and drink. Maybe a reduction in food and drinks would help, as our sport has no icons, not like football matches where you go to support your team.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

It has both positive and negative; positives from great races and people’s joy at winners, but negatives like the whip debate didn’t really help promote the sport.


Improving the sport

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing -

a) on-course? Prize-money for owners, it’s worse now than when I started in 2006!!

b) off-course? More rewards for stable staff. They are the heart of racing, behind the scenes they work so hard and deserve more bonuses, not just from trainers, but from prize-money and best turned outs.

 

Horses to follow

Which horse are you most looking forward to riding between now and the end of the season?

Lie Forrit as Brindisi Breeze is now on his holidays until next season.

Which Novice (that you have ridden) has impressed you most this season (hurdler or chaser) with a view to next season?

Brindisi Breeze.

Which Novice (that you have not ridden) has impressed you the most this season (hurdler or chaser) with a view to next season?

Sprinter Sacre, amazing performance at Cheltenham.

Dark horse to follow for the 2012/13 National Hunt season?

KRIS CROSS from Lucinda’s, he looks a nice horse for next season. Grant (Cockburn) won on him at Ayr and he’ll be one to follow.


Quick-fire

Cheltenham Gold Cup or Scottish Grand National?

Gold Cup

Hurdles or Fences?

Fences

A P McCoy or Ruby Walsh?

AP McCoy

20 runner long distance handicap chase or 20 runner 2 mile maiden hurdle (for riding purposes)?

Long distance chase

 

Just for fun

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?

Indestructible, I think all jumps jockeys would want that!!!

 

Campbell is currently experiencing his best ever season with 33 winners to date, including a Grade 1 victory at the Cheltenham Festival.

In March alone he has ridden 10 winners from 40 rides (25% S/R | +£29.05 BFLSP).

Many thanks to Campbell for taking part in this NTF Q&A session and lets hope he can smash through the 40 winners mark before the season is over.

Ben (NTF)

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NTF Q&A – Tom Segal (Pricewise)

Written on February 4, 2012 by in NTF Q&A


Name – Tom Segal

Occupation – Tipster

Years involved in racing – Roughly about 20 years not very good with dates

First horseracing memory – Whitbread Gold Cup at Sandown sometime in 70′s

 

Background…

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?

Living next to Sandown

How did you become involved in the tipping side of horseracing?

Doing the odd Spotlight shift when I started at the Racing Post some 15 years ago

 

Career to date…

Proudest moment of career to date?

None, just doing my job

Which race that you personally made a Pricewise selection in stands out in your memory and why?

Sea The Stars in 2000 Guineas, spotting a great horse before many others

Which race do you wish you could relive and analyse/make a selection in again (good or bad)?

All the ones I don’t find the winner of, no preference

 

In the punting seat…

Most enjoyable aspect of being ‘Pricewise’?

The puzzle

How much ‘homework’ do you undertake before each selection?

Nowhere near as much as many think. 20 minutes maybe, big believer in keeping things simple

Which area of your selection process do you consider to be the most important?

Price and jockey

How thoroughly do you analyse your own selections after the race has been run?

Don’t. Never fester on the negative.

Apart from price what do you feel is the most important factor when analysing an ante-post market?

Trainer I suppose but price is by far the most important.

Best and worst tracks from a tipping perspective?

Worst Cheltenham and Goodwood, best don’t mind anywhere else

How do you deal with losing runs?

Like everyone else not very well, but I’ve done my job for a long time now and highs and lows don’t effect me so much anymore.

 

Wish list…

Which race do you wish you had been given the opportunity to make a Pricewise selection in?

I do all the big races so none I can think of. Very little interest in low quality stuff.

Which other sporting event do you wish you had been able to make a Pricewise selection for?

NFL

Which other sporting event would you like to have the opportunity to be involved in?

Superbowl

 

Racing and the general public…

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

Nothing that no one hasn’t said before. Make it cheaper and shorten the time between races 20 mins is plenty. 10 race cards too.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

No idea don’t use it, never will either.

 

Improving the sport…

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing -

a) on-course? Shorten the time between races

b) off-course? Just improve the quality by getting rid of all the rubbish meetings

 

The Cheltenham Festival…

Is there too much emphasis placed on the Cheltenham Festival and do you think it is starting to devalue the rest of the National Hunt calendar?

No and no.

Would a 5th day at the festival strengthen the meeting or weaken it?

Weaken it massively. Too many crap races now, we don’t need any more.

 

Horses to follow…

Which horse are you most looking forward to following at this season’s Cheltenham Festival?

Minsk

Which Novice has impressed you most this season (hurdler or chaser) with a view to next season?

Grand Crus by a country mile

Which 2yo from 2011 should we look out for in 2012?

Akeed Mofeed (John Oxx)

Dark horse to follow for the 2012 flat season?

Pour Moi’s half-sister Kissed

 

Quickfire…

Cheltenham Gold Cup or Epsom Derby?

Not fussed give me the Stewards Cup any day of the week

Frankel or Black Caviar?

Frankel but I’ve never seen Black Caviar

A P McCoy or Ryan Moore?

Ruby Walsh

20 runner long distance chase or 35 runner 5f sprint (for punting purposes)?

Sprint every time

 

Just for fun…

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?

Time travel. No losers then.

 

Many thanks to Tom Segal for agreeing to take part in the NTF Q&A session.

In case you didn’t already know Tom Segal’s Pricewise column can be found in the Racing Post.

Ben (NTF)

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NTF Q&A – Jeremy Gask

Written on November 7, 2011 by in NTF Q&A

 

Name – Jeremy Gask

Occupation – Racehorse Trainer

Years involved in racing – Training 1998 to present

First horseracing memory – Visiting stripping sheds at Morphettville Racecourse (South Australia) with my Dad

 

Background…..

 

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?    

I always had a fascination as long as I remember. My Step grandfather was a trainer and my Gran used to have 50cents on every race every day. From the age of 10 she would put mine on for me on the phone.

What was the main reason behind you becoming a trainer? 

Long story but always talked of it as child but lost involvement through school and sporting days. I was heavily into sport which took up most of the time but had a long term injury which ended my playing days. Still managed to check the results on the scoreboard at Adelaide Oval while in the middle of a football game as we had a few racing ‘tragics’ in the team. Hope my old Coach doesn’t ever read this.

I was at university when my Mum died and it turned things around a bit. A friend who trained for my father needed someone to help at the stables for the winter while his son went on his honeymoon. That was the start of it. From there went to work on the Studs then a leading Adelaide trainer before coming to England for 2 years before going back to train.

 

Career to date…..

 

Proudest moment of career to date? 

First winner is hard to beat – Rock City at Victoria Park.

Best horse you have trained –

a) UK – I think Medicean Man is potentially the best but have a real soft Spot for Anne Of Kiev. I hope there is better still to come.

b) Australia – Most ability was EL DIABLO. He had a very short career but was a flying machine. Holds Victoria Park 3yo record of 55.4s for the 5f. I owe him a lot for a number of reasons.

 

Australia to the UK…..

 

What is the main difference between Racing in Australia and Racing in the UK? 

Prize money and tradition.

What is the main aspect of your Australian training regime that you have implemented over here? 

We tend to vary distances a bit more in Australia and something I have tried to do at times though I do meet with pressure from the odd owner as it isn’t necessarily the ‘done’ thing.

What has been the most difficult transition you have had to make since coming to the UK?

Keeping horses healthy is a challenge. I am sure climate has a bit to do with it but I think the transfer of horses to and from racecourse stables etc is also a factor. Getting horses educated first time out is a challenge for a small to medium yard without having official trials and jump outs which we have in Australia.

Could UK racing learn anything from Australia racing and vice-versa?

Both ways in some areas. I think UK racing is hamstrung to an extent through lack of funding and the sheer number of racecourses makes it difficult to share the diminishing cake. Sectional timing is something I feel strongly about and hope it isn’t too far from becoming normal practice.

Actually as I write this thoughts come into my head and perhaps it is something that would need a deal more time to answer fully but I definitely think we can always learn from other countries on how to improve our own wherever we are. Tradition is such a factor in the UK that many changes are not given the credence I think they deserve but it is hard to change the mind set.

 

Wish list…..

 

Which horse currently in training do you wish you had in your yard? 

Black Caviar……she is the best I have seen and will race on for a while yet I hope. Frankel will be off to stud next year!

What race (that you had a runner in) do you wish you could re-run?

 The South Australian Oaks of 2004 was one that got away after we were very unlucky not to have won the Group 1 which could have changed a lot of things.

Which race do you wish you had a ‘live contender’ for in -

a) UK?    King George

b) International?    Cox Plate

 

Racing and the general public…..

 

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

I think RFC is doing a pretty good job. We are lucky to have the likes of Frankel etc to promote the sport at the moment but I think more could be done to promote them to the wider public. The die-hard racing fans will often be opposed to many of the promotional changes but I think they need to look beyond that. The Breeders Cup Coverage I thought is an example of how to get the public ‘into’ the racing and feel like they have some sort of connection to a horse, jockey, trainer or owner. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea but it really hits the mark with the average person watching.  Sure we must support and cater for the punter and traditional fan but a balance is required. Champions day was something I think can create this sort of image but I still think the general public feels no connection to most of the participants. Obviously there is a balance between growing and developing the current, long time industry participants and sourcing and introducing future generations.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

I think it has definitely provided a new source of up to date and current information. However, at times I feel it can fuel ‘negative hysteria’ to some aspects of the industry. I find I read far less print news as I find I can keep up with any news via Twitter for example. I think it is a good thing in general and it is certainly part of the future so participants need to understand how best to utilise the medium. I have found I read far more blogs of people I never would have come across before. I think it could be better served to promote the stars such as the horses and give the public more insight into their heroes. However this requires time and effort in a climate where investment is becoming less and less forthcoming.

 

Improving the sport…..

 

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing -

a) on-course?

I do go on about it but ‘sectional times’.

b) off-course? 

A dedicated racing radio station. So much time is spent by UK public on the road and I for one completely lose touch with the racing until I get a chance to check later. I am staggered the industry doesn’t see the need for one but again the question is who would fund it? Surely the wagering sector could see the benefit of it?

 

Horses to follow…..

 

Which 2yo in the yard from this season should we look out for in 2012? 

Wiltshire Life

Which older horse in the yard should we look out for next season? 

Medicean Man will win a good race.

Dark horse in the yard to follow for the AW season? 

Probably won’t have that many running over the winter this year.

Name a horse to follow for next season’s classics (out with own yard)?

I thought Camelot was ultra impressive.

 

Quickfire…..

 

Melbourne Cup or Epsom Derby? 

Honestly couldn’t choose as both so different and either would change my life.

2yo with promise or 3yo with experience? 

2yo with promise

Beating England at Cricket or beating the All-Blacks at Rugby?  

Beating England at Cricket

Xmas on the Beach or Xmas in the snow?

Xmas in the snow

 

Just for fun…..

 

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?   

Fly!   I seem to spend half of my life on the motorway.

 

You can find out more about Jeremy and the squad at the Horses First Racing web-site.

Amongst their growing fleet of horses is the machine in waiting – TRENDING!

Many thanks to Jeremy Gask for agreeing to take part in the latest NTF Q&A session.

Ben (NTF)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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NTF Q&A – Richard Hoiles

Written on September 28, 2011 by in NTF Q&A

 

Name – Richard Hoiles

Occupation – Broadcaster and Commentator

Years involved in racing – 1992-Present Day

First horseracing memory – The Pilgarlic plodding on for a place in numerous Grand Nationals

 

Background…..

 

What first stirred your interest in horseracing?

Actually going and standing by the open ditch at Plumpton when I was about seven. I couldn’t believe the speed and the distance jumped compared to what had previously seemed like dots on a T.V.

How did you become involved in the commentary side of horseracing?

I answered an Ad in the Sporting Life. I had no previous broadcast experience and was so naive I didn’t even realise you had to send in a demo tape. Fortunately when I did realise it crossed in the post with my rejection letter and the tape was thought decent enough to get to the next stage and it went from there.

 

Career to date…..

 

Proudest moment of career to date?

My Mum (sadly no longer with us) coming out to Hong Kong on International Races Day in 1997 and seeing me front the telecast.

Which race that you personally commentated on stands out in your memory and why?

Denman’s defeat of Kauto Star in the Gold Cup. It was a performance of raw power and I think very few horses in history could have beaten them that day.

Which race to you wish you could relive and commentate on again (good or bad)?

This year’s Victoria Cup when in a careless moment I muddled up Horseradish and Hawkeyethenoo for long enough for it to be obvious to all.

 

In the commentary box…..

 

Most enjoyable aspect of being a commentator?

The opportunity to be the first to describe a race and to be part of those present’s experience of it.

How much ‘homework’ do you undertake before each meeting?

A reasonable amount of background work so I know it is there if I need it but I won’t learn the colours until they go to post.

Best and worst tracks from a commentary perspective?

That is entirely down to the commentary positions. Some like Goodwood and Ascot are excellent, others like Kelso and Perth are far too low down to enable you to be accurate.

 

Wish list…..

 

Which race do you wish you had been given the opportunity to commentate on?

Desert Orchid v Pegwell Bay Gainsborough Chase at Sandown.

Which other sporting event do you wish you had been in the commentary box for?

The Ashes victory over Australia in 2005.

Which other sporting event would you like to have the opportunity to commentate on?

Any cricket match.

 

Racing and the general public…..

 

In your opinion what could be done to attract new fans to the sport?

Treat them like adults. Racing is far more challenging than any quiz show yet plays second fiddle to Countdown in the Channel 4 schedules. Explain what it is that the likes of Michael Owen, Mike Atherton, Richie Benaud and Michael Holding all find so compelling about our sport.

Do you think Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, etc…) has had a positive impact on racing and how else do you think it could be used to further promote the sport?

Well it has got me doing this Q and A for a start ! Anything that improves communication and understanding between participants and followers has to be good in breaking down the barriers in any sport.

 

Improving the sport…..

 

What one thing would you like to see implemented to improve horse racing -

a)      on-course?

Extension of funding for the excellent BHEST scheme which encourages school children to attend race meetings as part of the education process. Involvement and participation at a young age is crucial.

b)      off-course?

Appointment of a race day controller to ensure races do not clash whatever the circumstances. The impact on turnover is colossal and in the current financial climate unforgivable.

 

The Cheltenham Festival…..

 

Is there too much emphasis placed on the Cheltenham Festival and do you think it is starting to devalue the rest of the National Hunt calendar?

Personally no, as whilst it was disappointing to see many top NH horses infrequently last season in general those who had run regularly often performed better. Hopefully the lessons will have been learnt this time around.

Would a 5th day at the festival strengthen the meeting or weaken it?

In any sport the pyramid at the top is only so wide and hence a 5th day and more races would by definition weaken it.

 

Horses to follow…..

 

Which 2yo from this season should we look out for in 2012?

Bronterre impressed me greatly at Goodwood.

Which National Hunt horse are you looking forward to following in the 2011/12 season?

Banjaxed Girl who will hopefully be going novice chasing and has Mares races at her mercy.

Dark horse to follow for the 2011/12 NH season?

Shootin The Breeze. Caught my eye at Newbury on debut and is now handicapped. Not mentioned by David Pipe in his interview with Mark Howard in the excellent One Jump Ahead !!

 

Quickfire…..

 

Cheltenham Gold Cup or Epsom Derby?

Gold Cup. Jumping man at heart.

A P McCoy or Ryan Moore?

A.P McCoy, his achievements will never be beaten.

Big Mac or Tanya?

Tanya. On hygiene alone.

5 runner Novice Chase or 35 runner 5f sprint (to call)?

35 runner sprint. Best not to give a commentator too much thinking time.

 

Just for fun…..

 

If you could have any superpower what would it be?

To become invisible!

 

 

Many thanks to Richard Hoiles for agreeing to take part in the first ever NTF Q&A session.

Ben (NTF)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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