January 7th

Sandown

Race 1 Galen. Galen for Stephen Baster won the Blue Diamond Prelude from Sinikka and Tsubaba. The time was quite slow in 58.28 and I have some doubts on these competitors winning the bigger two year-old races coming up in the autumn.

Race 2. I Command. Reward for consistency with I Command winning here. Well ridden by Noel Callow, I Command controlled the race out in front and raced up Lakeside well. Benson the third placegetter looks the horse to follow. He had to contend with the slow speed which played against his fortunes as he came from the back of the field. He looked good though when he was let down, and look out for him next start.

Last 600m: 33.06

Race 3. Laura's Charm. Laura's Charm looked the danger with ominous form and raced accordingly to defeat the valiant Lucky Diva. Make A Stand ran an even race, and Bella Jinsky looked as though she needed the run.

Last 600m: 32.35

Race 4. Expensively. This horse may have found his track with a strong win here. The placegetters however look a little suspect on class as Dyna Myta had every chance to beat the winner and Leveller refuses to live up to her reputation. But the winner can be looked at again, especially at Sandown.

Last 600m: 33.99

Race 5. Bomber Bill. The old marvel was a bit too good for all the young lions competing in the Rubiton Stakes. Secatuers set strong pace put in front and was still a few lengths clear at the 200m. He then started to tire and the runs from What's The Mail, Bomber Bill and Live in Vain all came at once. The best horse of the three won with Bomber Bill winning in grand style. What's The Mail can be followed as I believe he was disadvantaged by the one gate. Live in Vain our top selection was good and can go better elsewhere over longer.

Spark of Life the 1.40 favourite failed to handle the track as predicted. Forgive her though, as Sandown can have that kind of effect on runners.

Last 600m: 33.63

Race 6. King's Champ. This was the easiest win of the day with King's Champ practically leading all the way. His last start win at Werribee suggested he would handle Werribbe no problems and he wasn't wrong. Even though he raced a little fresh he won going away and has a future. Cannyopra finally delivered a little on his promise with Nedrullah, Moggs, and Pinstripe doing Ok.

Last 600m: 33.85

Race 7. Kalashani Star. Paying over 7.00 on the tote was too irresistable in the end. Kalashani Star delivered a run-away win with things going her way. She had been building up to a win like this, as she came back very big this preparation. In spite of this she had been competitive, and looked the obvious threat if things didn't go Kepola's way. I liked Kepola in the preview, but included Kalashani Star as we were concerned about the habits of Shades Of Laughter. As it happens Shades Of Laughter over-raced, upsetting Kepola and played into the hands of Kalashani Star.

Last 600m: 34.42

Race 8. Johnny Be Good. A strong win from this Danehill four-year old. Leading all the way Johnny Be Good faught of a strong challenge from Jeunique who had every chance and High Ransom who found the line late.

Last 600m: 33.65