Certify Set To Return, Latest Weather Casualties, Cheltenham Festival and More....Latest News

CERTIFY SET TO RETURN AT MEYDAN

Certify, one of 22 Godolphin horses suspended from racing for six months last year, is set to return to action, and Charlie Appleby believes the filly will be competitive when she returns from almost 500 days off the track, in the Group 2 Cape Verdi Stakes at Meydan on Thursday. 
Appleby, who took over Moulton Paddocks in July, warns that Certify will be better for the run, but is excited to be getting her back on the track.


LATEST WEATHER

The latest casualty to the bad weather, see's Wednesday's meeting at Ludlow abandoned due to waterlogging on the track. 
Taunton's meeting tomorrow is subject to a 7am inspection in the morning.


FOX HUNTER CHASE FANCY, BESHABAR, RETIRED

And now for a couple of retirements announced today, with Beshabar, winner of the 2011 Scottish Grand National, and a leading fancy at the Cheltenham, in the Fox Hunter Chase, has been retired due to a minor set-back. Injuries have kept the 12 year old off since November 2011, where finishing 5th in the Hennessy Gold Cup.
And, the other retirement sees Marco Botti-trained Jakkalberry retired due to a set-back. Botti said, 'He returned back from exercise this morning a little sore, and exploratory tests have told us it is time to call it a day with him. He is fine in himself, and in great spirits, but it would be unfair to keep persevering with him.'


AN EARLY LOOK TOWARDS CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL

Finally on the latest news, we now have some prices in for Top Jockey's and Trainers for the Cheltenham Festival. Paddy Power have opened with Willie Mullins at 4/9 to take top trainer, with Nicky Henderson 7/2 and Paul Nicholls 9/2.
As for the Jockey's, there's no surprise as Ruby Walsh is 4/7 favourite, having been top jockey 5, out of the last 6 years. Barry Geraghty 7/2 and A P McCoy 6/1.


For now, that's about it, but do join me again soon for more news, tips and stats.