Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Marten Julian Horse racing news and views. Established 1970. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.martenjulian.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blogs](https://www.martenjulian.com/blogs/) - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 3 August 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-3-august-2026/) - There was much to take away from last week’s Glorious Goodwood meeting, but I want to start with a horse who is highly unlikely to arouse the interest of the post-race analysts. Avalon Queen is a two-year-old daughter of Derby winner Masar trained by Roger Teal. She is the fourth foal of Morgan Le Faye, - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 27 July 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-raing-weekly-roundup-27-july-2026/) - I want to start this week with a look back at the King George and Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Although heralded as one of the best renewals of recent years, I’m not sure that all the horses ran to form. The Japanese pair, Masquerade Ball and Wurttemberg, were edgy beforehand and finished a long way behind. - [A chip off the old block](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-chip-off-the-old-block/) - Glorious Goodwood came and went and, to be honest, describing it as a mixed bag might be slightly generous. The atmosphere and the racing itself were both superb but my back played up – I use a walking stick now and progress is on the steady side – and I wondered if I’d last all - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 21 July 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-21july-2026/) - Although these are early days to be looking towards next year’s Classics, I’ll be disappointed if Victorious doesn’t figure in the early reckoning. The daughter of Wootton Bassett has won each of her three starts, notably last time when beating Senorita Bonita in the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot. She made her debut in - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 13 July 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-13-july-2026/) - Looking back to last week’s July Meeting at Newmarket, I was mightily impressed with the performance of Senorita Bonita in the Group 2 Duchess of Cambridge Stakes. The daughter of Starspangledbanner had looked very smart at the Craven Breeze-Up sale in April, where she fetched an eye-watering 900,000gns, having been sold in the October Book - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 6 July 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-6-july-2026/) - I have to admit that I am a little confused about the pecking order of this season’s three-year-olds. The Coral-Eclipse on Saturday was the first Group 1 test against older horses but, on form, this did not strike me as a top renewal. Constitution River was the only three-year-old to have won a Group 1 - [Bit of a rush for a patient constable these days](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-bit-of-a-rush-for-a-patient-constable-these-days/) - Another warm spell is upon us. I need it and even when temperatures start to drop again I’ll wish I was in Aix -en- Provence, sipping a glass of chilled rose. I can’t afford it, of course, and given my recent history of this ward and that and hospital bran flakes for breakfast, the travel - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 29 June 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-29-june-2026/) - I’ve recently come to the conclusion that Aidan O’Brien starts the season without a clear idea of the pecking order of his horses. He is admirably forthcoming in the previews and on open days, and there is no doubting his probity, but his gushing enthusiasm for so many of his horses may devalue the currency - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 15 June 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-15-june-2026/) - It may seem perverse to bring to your notice an observation about a 25-rated maiden on the eve of the world’s most prestigious week of flat racing, but I believe the circumstances relating to Rockafeller Skank warrant a mention for a number of reasons. The three-year-old gelding, who carries the name of a dance hit - [Fishing deep for Roach](https://www.martenjulian.com/fishing-deep-for-roach/) - When I look back at the way I approached racing - and I’m talking about 60 years ago and more - I have to say there have been fundamental changes almost across the board. Who or what did I like most? An easy one, really, because Bill Wightman was my hero, closely followed by Les - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 9 June 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-9-june-2026/) - I don’t know what the analysts will make of the racing that took place on Epsom Downs on Saturday, but I was left wondering after the last race had been run if the many hours devoted to the outcome of the Derby had been of any value at all. There have never been as many - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 1 June 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-1-june-2026/) - Experienced observers of form generally consider that if horses finish in a bunch then they cannot all be world-beaters, regardless of the class of race. However I’m pretty sure this will not apply to yesterday’s Prix du Jockey Club, in which Constitution River beat his stable-companions Hawk Mountain and Montreal by three-quarters of a length - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 26 May 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-25-may-2026/) - The fact that Ryan Moore has twice been on the ‘wrong one’ in the fillies’ Guineas races reflects the uncertainty at Ballydoyle over the pecking order for their top-class performers at this time of year. In the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket Ryan Moore rode Precise because there was a strong feeling beforehand, and one with - [Santorini - And some lesser stars](https://www.martenjulian.com/santorini-and-some-lesser-stars-ian-carnaby/) - From the number of sympathetic messages I received about the Southampton-Middlesbrough fiasco (otherwise known as Spygate) a lot of people thought I was as dedicated to the Saints as ever. In fact, that’s not the case. I go back to the days of Terry Paine and Martin Chivers, to Big John McGrath and the unstoppable - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 18 May 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-18-may-2026/) - Ante-post betting has always been a high-risk business, but it has become even more speculative since the domination of Willie Mullins over the jumps and Aidan O’Brien on the flat. This is because, in both cases, they usually have more than one possible representative in the top races and can therefore afford to leave their - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 11 May 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-11-may-2026/) - It’s difficult to know where to start when trying to predict the likely Ballydoyle representatives at Epsom … all the more so given that ‘The Lads’ have not, as far as we know, apparently yet had the conversation with their trainer. I don’t envy Ryan Moore’s predicament when the time arrives to commit to his - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 4 May 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-4-may-2026/) - I’ve brought to your attention in recent weeks the practice of running horses with point-to-point form three times in novice or maiden hurdles, mostly over two miles, to acquire a favourable mark for a low-grade staying handicap hurdle. Well it seems that the stewards may now be on the lookout for horses with this profile, - [Lilacs in the Spring](https://www.martenjulian.com/lilacs-in-the-spring/) - I have no strong preference when it comes to the various television channels concentrating on racing. Twist my arm and I’d say there is slightly too much detail on Racing UK - is it really all that relevant how fast a horse covered a particular furlong? Do we note it down for next time? I - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 27 April 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-27-april-2026/) - Aidan O’Brien will probably be “very happy” - which seems to be his go-to phrase for 2026 - with the way his team are performing, recording a 23 percent strike-rate for the current season with a few of Ballydoyle’s big names having made a winning start. We won’t talk about Albert Einstein for the moment, - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 20 April 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-20-april-2026/) - There are certain profiles that I like to see in a horse’s form. In a previous edition I wrote about the ex-point-to-pointer who showed reasonable form between the flags before joining a yard and finishing down the field in maiden/novice hurdle races, mostly over two miles, before running off a favourable mark in a staying - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 13 April 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-13-april-2026/) - No sooner is Aintree’s Grand National meeting over for another year than we dive into the Classic trials at Newmarket and Newbury, but that’s not all. Jumping devotees have the Scottish Grand National at Ayr and then, as the media will remind us, Constitution Hill is expected to appear in the John Porter Stakes at - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 6 April 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-6-april-2026/) - There was unsurprisingly quite a furore from some quarters following the revelation that four horses trained by Dan Skelton plus one trained by Christian Williams, all winners, had been backed in multiple bets last Tuesday. The operation had apparently cost the bookmakers what was described as a sum ‘comfortably into five figures’, which still falls - [A hero never to be forgotten](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-a-hero-never-to-be-forgotten/) - I went to Fontwell the other day. It was my first visit for a long time and I have to say it was a very moderate card, lifted to a degree by a steeplechase final with £20,000 in the kitty at the end. The smart restaurant was packed and the queues waiting to leave the - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 30 March 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-30-march-2026/) - There have been some notable gambles landed in the last couple of weeks. I have tried to forewarn my subscribers of the early signals in my Daily Bulletin, even though we’re all aware that it does not take much to move a horse’s price in the early markets. Last Thursday at Chelmsford there were strong - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 23 March 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-23-march-2026/) - Aidan O’Brien’s Open Day for the Press took place last week and, as always, it made for fascinating viewing. He talked at length about every horse on display, hardly drawing breath, with an endearing, almost childlike enthusiasm. Every spring he highlights his star prospect, drawing on superlatives regardless of how those that have come before - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 16 March 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-16-march-2026/) - Hi there, ‘It is better to travel hopefully than to arrive.’ So said Robert Louis Stevenson, whose wise words could be the guiding maxim for the legion of fans in the weeks leading up to the Cheltenham Festival. I tried to watch all the main podcasts, and a few of the independent ones, through the - [POURQUOI PAS MOI?](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-pourquoi-pas-moi/) - I watched a race on television the other day, partly because I rather fell for the name Pourquoi Pas Papa who is, as you probably know, a French-bred four-year-old trained by Paul Nicholls. He arrived from D Cottin’s stable in France, where they know all about the family. Pourquoi Pas Elle had already produced the - [The ghost of columns past](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-journal-theghostofcolumnspast/) - ‘Honesty is the best policy,’ as my mother used to say, and I’ve no reason to doubt her. She had her favourite trainers and jockeys - most of Gordon W Richards’ winners carried sixpence - and never denigrated those who were not her cup of tea. In this respect she differed from my Aunt Em, - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 9 March 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-9-march-2026/) - I thought that it would be fun, on the eve of what many view as the most exciting day of the jumping year, to make a few speculative predictions for the week ahead. Despite not having the number of short-priced favourites that he had last year, Willie Mullins is still at very skinny odds to - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 23 February 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-23-february-2026/) - I’m not sure that I would agree with those who say that Constitution Hill is held in great affection by the racing public. It is more a case of intrigue, with the future even more uncertain following his nine and a half lengths defeat of Square Necker at Southwell on Friday evening. I had suggested - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 2 March 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-2-march-2026/) - Now that the dust has settled over the participation of Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle there has been more discussion about the week’s other races. You can hear what people think in the selection of podcasts that are available on YouTube, although it’s disappointing that a few of the panellists appear to treat the - [Cheltenham Festival Spotlight](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham_festival_2026/) - Hi there, The Cheltenham Festival Spotlight is now available with six selections each from Jodie Standing, Ronan Groome and myself, selectively chosen in our quest to make a profit to level stakes. Most of the selections are at double-figure odds, including a horse from a small yard in Ireland for the Ultima, a gutsy novice - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 16 February 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-16-february-2026/) - I’m anticipating a flurry of activity in the ante-post markets for Cheltenham this week with the publication of the entries for the handicaps – the weights are then released next Tuesday (February 24th). Some bookmakers have been offering odds on these races with the NRNB concession for a few weeks now, based on the anticipated - [Nicolina leads the dance](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-nicolina-leads-the-dance/) - Jacquard, Dieu Soleil, Broadway Melody. Tishan out of trap 6. Faraway places with strange-sounding names. Sterrebeeke? Work on Monmore Green first, it’s probably closer. Charles Malizia and Arno Rudolf. 1 and 3 in the last at Hackney Wick, gone to developers long since. Psidium at 66/1, French chap on, Harry Wragg supposed to win with - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 9 February 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-9-february-2026/) - I have mentioned before a profile of form over jumps which has occasionally been linked to horses that have landed a touch. - [Client Feedback](https://www.martenjulian.com/client-feedback/) - Read lovely quotes and reviews about our services from some of our clients. - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 3 February 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-2-february-2026/) - The Dublin Racing Festival eventually got under way on Sunday, thanks in no small part to the extraordinary drainage system at Leopardstown. Few courses could have handled that degree of rainfall and it will be interesting to see, notably at Cheltenham, how the horses that ran last weekend respond to their exertions. There were eight - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 26 January 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-26-january-2026/) - Trials Day at Cheltenham on Saturday could have been an opportunity to showcase jump racing at its best, but instead it exposed three of the most troubled and contentious areas of the game. Dan Skelton has made it clear all season that Grey Dawning’s main target is the Gold Cup, but he appeared to be - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 19 January 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-19-january-2026/) - On hearing a racing journalist say in passing that he started his career as a board boy in a betting shop it brought back memories of my early days in the same role. I actually started as a board boy at the age of 16, under the legal age I know, and I can remember - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 12 January 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-12-january-2026/) - Although I would not suggest Paul Nicholls and I are close buddies, we do go back a long way … to 1995 in fact, when, in his fifth season with a licence, he trained Larry’s Lord, a horse who ran in my colours, to win four races. Since those times, three decades ago, we have - [No more room in the memory bank](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-no-more-room-in-the-memory-bank/) - Enough is enough. Frankly, that phrase is rather too direct and often used by someone worn down by something. Which I’m not, although if I say I’ve been looking at the runners and riders just about every day since Halloween won the King George VI Chase in 1954, I think we can see that I’ve - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 5 January 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-5-january-2026/) - Hi there, There was plenty of talk in the aftermath of the King George VI Chase about what a great race it was and, as a spectacle, that was the case with the eight-horse field covered by two lengths turning for home and four in a line passing the post. However for the serious student - [Wine And Roses](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-wine-and-roses/) - ‘They are not long, the days of wine and roses.’ No indeed and we all know what the English poet Ernest Dowson meant when he wrote his poem well over a hundred years ago. Sadly, the line lived on many years longer than Ernest himself, who died aged 32 and barely made it into the - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 22 December 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-22-december-2025/) - I’ve said before that if I were to single out just one leading principle to making a profit from backing horses it would be to monitor stable form. It’s quite extraordinary how things can go well for one yard and so badly for another. There have been many reasons put forward for this … the - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 15 December 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-15-december-2025/) - The busy Christmas schedule next week should bring some much needed clarity to the ante-post markets for Cheltenham. The highlight will be the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day, for which Gaelic Warrior and Jango Baie currently head the market. If the official ratings are taken literally it could be argued that Gaelic Warrior - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 8 December 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-8-december-2025/) - I readily admit that I go on about this sort of thing quite a lot, but there was an outstanding example of a horse apparently improving dramatically on his previous recent form last Monday at Ayr. King Gris was hammered in the betting for the second division of the extended 2m 3f 0-100 handicap hurdle - [Holly crowns a memorable day](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-holly-crowns-a-memorable-day/) - Ask me about Christmas and I come up with three or four vivid memories - not bad when you consider Halloween’s second triumph in the King George VI Chase came 71 years ago. My Aunt Em ferried the bets to Ern, the bookies’ runner who doubled as a bus inspector. Johnny Denton should have been - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 1 December 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-1-december-2025/) - Hi there It is said that everybody is entitled to an opinion, but in certain areas of expertise I would suggest that not everybody’s opinion should carry equal weight. For example the majority of media pundits have never ridden a racehorse, let alone in a race, yet they pontificate with authority on how well a - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 24 November 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-24-november-2025/) - I’m not sure what to make of the John Durkan Memorial Chase at Punchestown yesterday. On the one hand it was thrilling to see Gaelic Warrior and Fact To File - the ‘right’ horses - engaged in such a tussle from the home turn to the line. On the other hand, to what extent was - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 17 November 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-17-november-2025/) - I want to start this week with a few words about our first Weekend Bulletin, which covered the weekend’s racing including the three-day meeting at Cheltenham. Jodie and I were delighted with the coverage that we were able to give to the weekend’s meetings and her contribution allowed me to write about horses of long-term - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 10 November 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-10-november-2025/) - On Sunday a colleague sent me a copy of a piece from the Racing Post Grapevine feature in which Tony Charlton expressed his appreciation for my putting him in touch with Toby Balding. I don’t recall doing that but I remember Tony well, as a shy, quietly-spoken young lad and although I knew that he - [Ian's November Journal](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-horse-racing-november-journal/) - November has always been my favourite month. Right from the day Gaykart just outpointed Pretty Puffin, with Eric Eldin getting the better of Lester Piggott on a bitterly cold Newmarket afternoon and urchins were begging ‘A penny for the Guy, mister?’ I adored the early fading light, Proust beside an ancient gas fire, my college - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 3 November 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-3-november-2025/) - There were points of interest for us all over the place this weekend, with everything from a modest 0-60 nursery on Friday at Southwell to the razzmatazz of the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar. It’s a reflection of the rich variety of the current racing scene that having dominated the jumps season in both Ireland - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 27 October 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-27-october-2025/) - Now this is going back a few years, but there is never a day in our industry when this doesn’t apply. Back in the 70s when I was a student I used to frequent a betting shop in the Whitgift Centre in Croydon, where I had my first flat. The shop was managed by someone - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 20 October 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-20-october-2025/) - On any ordinary afternoon Aidan O’Brien’s achievement in sending out the winners of six of the seven races at Leopardstown would have been the main headline of the day. But that spot came under pressure when news came through that Gordon Elliott had landed a five-timer over in Far Hills, New Jersey with the highlight - [A Foreign Country Indeed](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-a-foreign-country-indeed/) - I approach my 77th birthday not in trepidation but with much to ponder. I am greatly interested in quotes attributed to famous people. I don't always agree with them, of course. Francois de La Rochefoucauld, whom I studied at school and Cambridge, asserted that we only show kindness to strangers because it makes us feel good. - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 13 October 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-13-october-2025/) - There is so much media coverage of racing these days that it was refreshing to be reminded of the value of old-fashioned ‘inside’ information over this last week. Andrew Balding has always struck me as being a sound judge, and I reckon those close to him would have been tempted to have a little of - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 6 October 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-6-october-2025/) - Having approached last weekend this time a week ago with no strong views about the Longchamp programme, exacerbated by the uncertainty over the state of the ground and the draw, I worked until the early hours on Friday and Saturday night in an effort to find us a bet or two. I honestly couldn’t find - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 22 September 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-22-september-2025/) - Hi there, You have to keep an eye on everything at the moment, with Group-class two-year-olds making their debuts in midweek maidens, but last week my eyes were drawn to two horses in France. The first was Velikaya, who showed a useful turn of foot to win a 1m 2f handicap at Saint-Cloud by four - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 29 September 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-29-september-2025/) - Hi there, With the passing of time I find myself looking back more and more to my earliest days on the racecourse and recalling, some with affection, the characters that used to be around. One who never missed a local meeting and seemed to be a standing dish at any social event was Jimmy The - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 15 September 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-15-september-2025/) - I’m not alone in having felt the last few days have passed through in a bit of a whirl. We had 31 thoroughbred races over the four days of Doncaster and then a clutch of Pattern races over the weekend in Ireland. The fourth day at Doncaster was particularly challenging, with no fewer than 110 - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 8 September 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-8-september-2025/) - The ‘number crunchers’ will have their say at some point, but without having access to all the figures my impression is that this year’s crop of middle-distance three-year-olds is distinctly ordinary. Dual-Derby winner Lambourn finished fifth of seven in the Great Voltigeur, three lengths behind Pride Of Arras, who had been beaten 50 lengths by - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 1 September 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-1-september-2025/) - I’m not sure how much money it would have taken to move a horse’s odds from 16/1 the night before to a starting price of 11/8, especially at a late-August Sunday afternoon meeting at Brighton, but an otherwise low profile day’s racing sprung to life for those involved when Arvana Belle scrambled home in the - [A Roustabout In Montana](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby_horseracing_roustaboutinmontana/) - Anyways looking back I think about the mare before anything else. Don’t get me wrong. I think about the Grinder and his sumbitch missus and the Crawfords, especially Miss Jenny, as well. But the mare was something special. When a busted hip ended my rodeo days it took a while to get back on anything - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 26 August 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/weekly-roundup-26-august-2025/) - I can’t recall a major Flat meeting when as many of the competitive handicaps were won by horses at the head of the market as at York last week. The opening 20-runner sprint handicap on the first day was won by joint-second favourite Trefor and the later staying handicap went to 100/30 favourite Santorini Star. - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 18 August 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/weekly-roundup-18-august-2025/) - I wrote a couple of weeks ago about the potential benefits of finding what I referred to as a ‘golden thread’ of form. This was in relation to the 1m 1f novice stakes run at a Carlisle evening meeting at the end of April. Just to recap, the race was won by then 85-rated The - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 4 August 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-4-august-2025/) - One of the most profitable sources of winners is to identify what I call a ‘golden thread’ of form before it becomes generally recognised. Going back many years, I remember Green Desert being beaten by Sure Blade on his debut at Newmarket. Michael Stoute had left me in no doubt when I asked him about - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 11 August 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-11-august-2025/) - The result of the Sussex Stakes, won by 150/1 chance Qirat, encapsulated the season so far. I have often talked and written about the ‘rhythm’ of a season, with a top horse or yard heading the field, but it would be hard to nominate a leader in either category at the moment. I had high - [Autumn Warmth For Jimmy And His Boy](https://www.martenjulian.com/autumn-warmth-for-jimmy-and-his-boy/) - I tip Jimmy Deans a filly I like at Deauville, knowing full well that an appreciation of Un Homme et une Femme will follow; let's just say he knows his films and leave it at that. It's good to see him, though. When Baileys Irish Cream was in its infancy and he had the pub - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 21 July 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-21-july-2025/) - I tend not to speak to trainers these days unless I happen to see them at the races. I occasionally email them but I fundamentally believe it is not my business to ask them about their horses. That was certainly the case when I started 50 years ago, but these days most trainers and their - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 28 July 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-28-july-2025/) - I was saddened to read that Alan Bailey died last week at the age of 86. Although I hadn’t seen Alan for a few years, we became friends when he trained a filly for our racing club named Timelee. She made her debut in a 6f maiden at Thirsk and was expected to need the - [Sweet Thursdays With Jim And John](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-sweet-thursdays-with-jim-and-john/) - A recent race at Newmarket was sponsored by the brewers Adnams, the full title being Adnams Pink Gin Gallop Handicap. I've kept up with the wine and spirits trade after spending several years in the industry but I hadn't noticed how many 'made up' pink gins had appeared on the market. The traditional drink was - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 1 July 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-1-july-2025/) - I think it’s fair to say that the Irish Derby on Sunday confirmed the earlier impression that we are not dealing with a vintage crop of middle-distance three-year-olds this season. Lambourn was all out to beat stable-companion Serious Contender, who 10 days earlier had been beaten into second place from a mark of 92 in - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 7 July 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-7-july-2025/) - David Brailsford was renowned for his use of the marginal gains theory in cycling, which is based on the premise that if you break down everything that goes into riding a bicycle and then improve it by 1% when you reassemble it you will get a significant overall improvement. I don’t know if Aidan O’Brien - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 14 July 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-14-july-2025/) - I have just had a friend over from the States who has followed racing in the UK closely for over 60 years and it’s always interesting to hear what he has to say, given his distant perspective. The first thing is that he thinks there are too many pundits in the Racing Post. Back in - [MIND THE GAP! A LATE MESSAGE](https://www.martenjulian.com/mind-the-gap-a-late-message/) - I don't like gaps. I like complete sets. Therefore a piece missing from a jigsaw puzzle, especially if it happens to be a city centre somewhere, irritates me more than in bothers other people. In the dying days of steam (quiz question: What was the name of the last steam railway engine produced in this - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 23 June 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-23-june-2025/) - A lot is made of which horses can act on the ground when conditions are testing but rather less is said when the ground is riding fast. Members of the TV teams working at Royal Ascot last week noted the actions of some of the horses on the way to post, but with hours of - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 16 June 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-16-june-2025/) - Although there is no disputing the quality of racing at Royal Ascot this week, there has not been anything like the build-up in the media that you have in the jumps season for Cheltenham. There is no weekly ‘Road to Royal Ascot’ programme or regular updates on the betting markets with Johnny Dineen. It may - [A STRANGE WORLD INDEED](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-strange-world-indeed/) - At Sandown the other day the television presenter, handing over to the commentator for the final race, mentioned that 'Ginger Baker' would be performing afterwards. 'No, me neither,' came the response. I have no problem with that. If 'Ginger Baker' appeared in the racecard he (or they) might well have been a tribute band with - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 9 June 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-9-june-2025/) - I made no secret that I did not hold a strong view on the Derby and readily concede that this time a week ago the winner was not on my mind. Having said that, had I followed up the train of thought outlined in my Daily Bulletin I would have had him in my shortlist. - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 2 June 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-2-june-2025/) - Now that there are regularly six meetings a day in Britain and Ireland it is even more important for serious backers to be selective and not allow themselves to become distracted. There is plenty of low-grade racing around at this time of year, but there can be the occasional opportunity hidden away at that level, - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 27 May 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-27-may-2025/) - Last Sunday at the Curragh could prove to have been one of the most pivotal days in Aidan O’Brien’s season. Of course, a weekend seldom passes in Ireland without a representative from Ballydoyle making an impression, but the reason why Sunday may prove so significant is that he trained three Group winners who are quite - [The Peerless Wordsmith Of Holland Park](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-peerless-wordsmith-of-holland-park/) - I wanted the Southampton v Arsenal game to mean more to me but couldn't quite make it happen. We get older and think about the time left. It was a good atmosphere the other day, even though neither side had anything at stake. As always, I enjoyed the drive down, passing the A272 close to - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 19 May 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-19-may-2025/) - One of the personal benefits of writing the Dark Horses Annual is that I used to view most of the maiden and novice races that took place in the autumn. I still managed to see many of them, but one race that eluded me was the 1m maiden run at Sandown on 8 August won - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 6 May 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-6-may-2025/) - There have been plenty of highlights over the last few days at Punchestown, Newmarket and in America, but I would like to focus here on one outcome that did not go according to plan. That is the performance of Constitution Hill, who was beaten 27 lengths in the Boodles Champion Hurdle at Punchestown on Friday. - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 12 May 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-12-may-2025/) - Following a relatively slow start to the campaign, probably by design, Aidan O’Brien now has a firm grip on the middle-distance Classic picture having won most of the recognised trials. Taking a look at the Derby betting, and this is before the Dante Stakes on Thursday, he trains five of the first seven in the - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 28 April 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-28-april-2025/) - There seems to be an understanding in Ireland that young inexperienced jumping stock needs to be brought along steadily. Invariably in large fields of novice hurdlers the market leaders set off together in the front while the others trail behind, quite often by the first hurdle. I get the impression that a higher proportion of - [Ian's April Journal](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-april-journal/) - MIND THE GAP! A LATE MESSAGE I don't like gaps. I like complete sets. Therefore a piece missing from a jigsaw puzzle, especially if it happens to be a city centre somewhere, irritates me more than in bothers other people. In the dying days of steam (quiz question: What was the name of the last - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 22 April 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-22-april-2025/) - I was probably not alone in looking back at the form of 200/1 winner Heavenly Heather after she had won the Class 2 Fillies’ and Mares’ Championships Handicap at Newcastle last Friday. I hold firm in my belief that the vast majority of races are won by the best horse in the field, and I - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 7 April 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-7-april-2025/) - With so many pundits in social media and the racing press, I would like to think that someone will apply themselves to trying to ascertain why Willie Mullins has such dominion over his contemporaries. I am no statistician, but I see from the Racing Post site that this season he is operating at a 25 - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 15 April 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-15-april-2025/) - I have to start with a word of praise for the ride Harry Cobden gave Captain Cody to win the Scottish Grand National on Saturday. This could all have gone horribly wrong for him. Riding the horse for the first time, he jumped the last three lengths behind stable-companion Klarc Kent and his mount then - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 31 March 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-31-march-2025/) - All eyes will be focused on Aintree this week, but on the flat in Ireland it’s possible that we’ve already seen some leading Classic contenders. Aidan O’Brien suggested last season that he was not going to rush his horses, mindful of the prestigious prizes to be won in the autumn, but even though we are - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 25 March 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-25-march-2025/) - By chance last night I was reading an old review written by the late Clive James about a biography of the poet WH Auden, in which he refers to what he calls the ‘clarity of detachment.’ I was thinking this would perfectly encapsulate what was required to address the overload of data and opinion that - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 18 March 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-18-march-2025/) - Last week’s events at Cheltenham perfectly illustrated the unpredictable nature of this fascinating game. Nobody could have foreseen the sequence of incidents that unfolded in the Champion Hurdle, while the defeat of five odds-on favourites ensured that the layers finished the week with the upper hand. From a personal perspective not much damage was done, - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 10 March 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-10-march-2025/) - Well it’s almost upon us … the highlight of the season. By the end of this week we’ll know which of the good things got beat and whether Constitution Hill and Galopin Des Champs belong in the stellar galaxy of the sport’s great performers. At a top price of 8/13 the bookmakers believe that Constitution - [TOWN MOOR  -  SUMMER WISHES, WINTER DREAMS](https://www.martenjulian.com/town-moor-summer-wishes-winter-dreams/) - They seem to race a lot at Doncaster. It's not just my imagination. Summer and winter, afternoons and evenings, fixtures on Derby day and fixtures during Cheltenham; Jonjo O'Neill was recently anticipating a routine task on Town Moor until Willie Mullins asked him to ride Poniros in the JCB Triumph Hurdle at the festival, thereby - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 3 March 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-3-march-2025/) - It was only on Saturday that I was telling someone that we were approaching a time of the season when it was important to keep your eyes on the cards away from the main action, while most people are focused on Cheltenham. Barney Curley once landed a touch at Newcastle, I think it was, on - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 24 February 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-24-february-2025/) - Nick Luck is in a class of his own as a presenter but his interview with Nico de Boinville in his Sunday morning programme made for uncomfortable viewing. Nick skilfully steered the conversation to calmer waters by asking his guest about his approach to work and family life, but not before an awkward exchange in - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 17 February 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-17-february-2025/) - As Cheltenham draws ever nearer the cycle of Preview nights swing into action and some are most definitely better than others. There have been some notable insights. On one occasion Jamie Codd memorably revealed that Labaik had done eye-catching work at home in preparation for the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, which he went on to win - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 10 February 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-10-february-2025/) - I cannot think of another top trainer under either code who is so willing to grant interviews to the media as Nicky Henderson. What is so surprising is that Nicky is entitled to be considered ‘old school’, having started his career in 1978 after acting as assistant to the great Fred Winter. Back then there - [TOM PEARCE, TOM PEARCE, LEND ME YOUR GREY MARE…](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-tom-pearce/) - On and on he gallops in the fading Chepstow light. He is called Lightonthewing but reminds me of Jim’s Tavern at Plumpton all those years ago in a race broadcast, for some long-forgotten reason, on Southern Television in midweek. Plumpton looked bigger, wider in those days and it seemed a long way home to a - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 3 February 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-3-february-2025/) - It’s hard to know where to begin in relation to the action in Ireland, so I’ll start elsewhere with the relatively low-grade 0-100 2m 4f handicap chase run at Lingfield last Friday. Why, you are fully entitled to ask, is this of such interest given the high quality of racing over the water? Well it’s - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 27 January 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-horse-racing-27-january-2025/) - The stewards were busy on Saturday, looking into the running of Iroko and Delta Work at Cheltenham and, of more interest to me, the victory of Owl Of Athens in the 2m 4f 0-100 handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter. As you are aware I try to keep on the lookout for potential plots but I could - [Ronan Groome's Irish News: Dublin Racing Festival](https://www.martenjulian.com/ronan-groomes-irish-news-dublin-racing-festival/) - It’s Day One of the Dublin Racing Festival and it’s a very similar feel. Willie Mullins/Paul Townend vs Willie Mullins/next-in-line jockeys vs the rest. The champion trainer has the favourites and substantial back up for all four of the Grade 1s, headlined by the dual Gold Cup winner and Leopardstown lover Galopin Des Champs in - [Ian Carnaby's Weekend News](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnabys-weekend-news/) - Life is hard enough without choices like this: whether to watch Dan Burn going through the motions with little to do at the back as Newcastle dismantle Southampton or Jim Old’s Spirits Bay, ridden purely for the place money, running against Constitution Hill at Cheltenham? Do what you feel is right, I suppose. Jim is - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 20 January 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-20-january-2025/) - I want to devote this edition to Mike Futter. Some of you will remember him through his association with Monty’s Pass, who landed a £1 million touch - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 13 January 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-13-january-2025/) - I was interested to hear Paul Townend talking with Lydia Hislop and Ruby Walsh about King George VI Chase winner Banbridge over the weekend. The obvious impression from the horse’s style of racing and form is that he could struggle to stay the extended 3m 2f of the Gold Cup, and indeed Townend suggested the - [MANY MORE HAMLETS STILL TO DISCOVER](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-many-more-hamlets-left-to-discover/) - Well now, we can probably all agree that the Load of Mischief should be a pub and, if so, our sort of place. In fact, these days it’s a private house in Blewbury, its pub days a thing of the past with only the Red Lion and the Barley Mow fighting the good fight. I - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 6 January 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-6-january-2025/) - We had a feast of top-class racing over the Christmas holiday, giving rise to some notable fluctuations in the ante-post markets for Cheltenham. Unlike this time last year, when about half the races had a Willie Mullins horse at the head of the market, there is a more open look to this season’s meeting. Things - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 16 December 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-16-december-2024/) - I have written before about the decline in interest in ante-post betting, which is a great shame, but looking at the Gold Cup market there is nothing that entices me to advise an early investment. Fact To File, who beat Spillane’s Tower and Galopin Des Champs in the John Durkan, is 5/2 with 7/2 available - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 23 December 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-23-december-2024/) - If everything goes according to plan … and in this game we have to accept things can change at the last minute … it looks as if Lossiemouth will meet Constitution Hill in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Thursday. Although Constitution Hill is defending an eight-race unbeaten record, I expect him to prove weak - [THE RACE, THE GAME AND WHAT COMES AFTER](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-the-race-the-game-and-what-comes-after/) - As the goals rained down on Southampton the other evening there was no great surprise around the ground. After 13 minutes, with Tottenham three-nil up, the manager was bound to be sacked and it was just a question of playing out time. It’s a long way home and I welcomed the warmth of the car. - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 9 December 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-9-december-2024/) - I’m not sure that anyone outside the immediate circle of Venetia Williams’s yard could have predicted the ease with which Djelo won the Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon on Sunday. The six-year-old was always travelling very smoothly and went effortlessly clear, with his rider taking a couple of leisurely looks back, to win by six lengths - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 2 December 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-2-december-2024/) - Although the ante-post market is not the force of old, there is plenty of material for discussion regarding the current Champion Hurdle betting. The first quandary relates to the participation of Constitution Hill. The seven-year-old seems to be quite fragile and susceptible to ailments and injuries, and his current odds of 9/2 are more a - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 25 November 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-horse-racing-25-november-2024/) - I’m not so sure that Sunday’s John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase will prove to have great relevance to the Gold Cup. Yes it was a thrilling spectacle and Willie Mullins may be proved right that, on figures, this was the best ever renewal of the race, but the first three home were covered by two - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 19 November 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-19-november-2024/) - With 16 of the 19 races at Cheltenham’s three-day November meeting going to winners priced at 7/2 or shorter, the punters had the better of the argument with the bookmakers. Even Il Ridoto, the 10/1 winner of the Paddy Power Gold Cup, was one of the best backed horses in the race and the results - [Ronan Groome’s Weekend Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/ronan-groomes-weekend-preview-horse-racing/) - The Saturday Sermon A lot has been said about the dearth of quality in this year’s renewal of the Betfair Chase but that is surely a glass-half-full attitude. We don’t have a Kauto Star or a Bristol De Mai or an A Plus Tard, but we do have nine runners (the last three renewals have - [HAPPINESS AND GRIEF IN W1](https://www.martenjulian.com/happiness-and-grief-in-w1-ian-carnaby/) - I’m not sure how many books remain unread, how many films unseen but we’re well into three figures. And yet, I found time the other day to watch The Third Man again and finally nodded off well after midnight, just as Major Scobie was negotiating a risky financial arrangement with the slippery Syrian ‘businessman Yusef - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 11 November 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/horse-racing-weekly-roundup-11-november-2024/) - I want to start with a few words about King Turgeon, who won the Grand Sefton Handicap at Aintree on Saturday. As those of you who subscribe to the Weekend Card and Daily Bulletin were aware, I was very keen on his chance on Saturday following his hugely impressive seasonal debut at Chepstow 10 days - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 4 November 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-4-november-2024/) - There will be plenty of discussion and debate following the defeat of City Of Troy in the Breeders’ Cup Classic, with those who felt he faced a difficult task feeling vindicated. It was very quickly apparent that he would struggle, missing the break and soon in arrears although the winner Sierra Leone was actually just - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 28 October 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-28-october-2024/) - After seeing Designer finish last in the 5f sprint handicap at Doncaster on Saturday, I was pleased when my day’s other selection Hotazhell just got the better of Delacroix in the Futurity Trophy. I had taken the view beforehand that the race was likely to prove more a test of stamina and resolution in the - [Soho Man Ventures South](https://www.martenjulian.com/soho-man-ventures-south-iancarnaby/) - Where possible, I try to correct mistakes. I don’t mean factual errors so much as mood or overall background. The other day, troubled by a recently fractured right arm, I was caught somewhere between the sporting years 1964 and 1982 and an assessment of Soho drinker and writer Jeffrey Bernard. I admit it’s a tenuous - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 21 October 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-21-october-2024/) - I gather there was an eerie silence in the stands as Anmaat got the better of Calandagan in the closing stages of the Qipco Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. I suspect that many in the crowd had to refer to their racecards to check up on the winner’s form in the moments after the - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 14 October 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-horseracing-14-october-2024/) - At first sight Saturday’s Dewhurst Stakes looked nothing special, with the first three finishing within two necks of each other and the ante-post favourite The Lion In Winter an absentee. The most intriguing performance came from Aidan O’Brien’s Expanded, who just seven days earlier had squeezed through a narrow gap to win a 7f maiden - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 7 October 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-horseracing-roundup-7-october-2024/) - I think most of us felt beforehand that there was no outstanding candidate for the Arc but I have to admit that I didn’t really fancy Bluestocking to win. The thing that most surprised me was how significant the betting market proved before the race. Bluestocking was available at around 11/1 in the morning but - [Marten Julian’s Weekly Roundup 30 September 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-30-september-2024/) - I was very selective with my advices for Newmarket last week, nominating just four horses over the three days. The one that I was most keen on was Lake Victoria, who was dropping down in trip to six furlongs for the Cheveley Park Stakes having won three times over seven. Aidan O’Brien is no slave - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 23 September 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-horseracing-roundup-23-september-2024/) - I have never considered myself a great judge of work. Over the years I have seen dozens of home gallops, but horses are seldom given too hard a time in their work and you don’t always know how much weight the horses are carrying. Also not every horse reveals its true ability in work at - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 17 September 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-horseracing-weekly-roundup-17-september-2024/) - I was possibly being a little harsh when I described the St Leger field as a bunch of plodders in my Weekend Card preview, but with the first four covered by a length and three-quarters there was no clear-cut winner. Jan Brueghel, who edged out Illinois to win by a neck, had come into the - [GYPSIES, NUNS AND SWEETIES  -  ALL IN THE MIDNIGHT HOUR](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-gypsies-nuns-and-sweeties-all-in-the-midnight-hour/) - W Six Times, Bertie Bassett and Three Nuns tobacco. Not long ago, and for the first time in a while, I stayed awake in the small hours, listening to Radio 3 and thinking about Bill Chapman, Carnforth and the Today programme. Bill, one of my closest friends, died earlier this year at the age of - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 9 September 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/weekly-horseracing-roundup-9-september-2024/) - The pecking order for the top older horses this season must be all over the place following the two big races over the weekend. I could never have fancied Montassib to win the Group 1 Betfair Sprint Cup at Haydock while the following day Tribalist made all to spring a surprise in the Group 1 - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 2 September 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-2-september-2024/) - A lot has been written and said about Ryan Moore in recent weeks, with some justification given the initiative and skill he displayed in the case of City Of Troy at York. Going back many years – to 1984 - I remember speaking to Robert Sangster in the moments after Sadler’s Wells beat the older - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 26 August 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-26-august-2024/) - Although it was no surprise to see City Of Troy win the Juddmonte International at York last Wednesday, I had never have expected him to make the running, especially given the presence of a pacemaker. However, in hindsight, it was always going to be on the cards and Wayne Lordan quickly accepted that his supporting - [A Goalless draw - and memories to last a lifetime](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-goalless-draw-and-memories-to-last-a-lifetime/) - George IV paid his last visit to the Royal Pavilion in Brighton in 1827. He loved the town and he loved his Oriental pleasure palace even more. His successor William IV was also very fond of Brighthelmstone, as it was originally called, but Queen Victoria and Albert (who complained about very little) did not share - [Kieren Shoemark](https://www.martenjulian.com/kieren-shoemark/) - Hi there, I read today that Free Wind, on whom Kieren Shoemark received criticism in certain quarters for his ride in the Lillie Langtry Stakes at Goodwood, has been retired having injured herself as the stalls open. Then on Sunday in the Jacques le Marois Inspiral, ridden by Ryan Moore, lost about five lengths – - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 12 August 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-12-august-2024/) - I read today that Free Wind, on whom Kieren Shoemark received criticism in certain quarters for his ride in the Lillie Langtry Stakes at Goodwood, has been retired having injured herself as the stalls open. Then on Sunday in the Jacques le Marois Inspiral, ridden by Ryan Moore, lost about five lengths – not the - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 5 August 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-5-august-2024/) - Last week at Goodwood there was the customary crop of eyecatchers, although not as many as we had before the false rail and cutaway was introduced two furlongs from home in 2022. I’m not sure how punters fared over the five days – my clients made a profit to level stakes thanks to 16/1 winner - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 29 July 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-29-july-2024/) - I never had much of a feel for Saturday’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes but, even so, it was negligent of me not to make any mention of the winner Goliath. One of my cardinal rules from my earliest years has been to ensure that in a big race preview every horse, - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 22 July 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-22-july-2024/) - The early indications are that there are some pretty smart two-year-old fillies in Ireland at this stage of the season. Fairy Godmother came from what looked an impossible position to win the Albany Stakes while the following day Bedtime Story won the Chesham Stakes by no fewer than nine and a half lengths, with subsequent - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 8 July 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-8-july-2024/) - The overriding emotion that emanated from those close to City Of Troy following his hard fought success in the Coral-Eclipse Stakes on Saturday was more one of relief than elation, with Ryan Moore telling Nick Luck in a post-race interview that he had expected the colt to “win by 10 lengths.” Lewis Porteous, writing in - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 1 July 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-1-july-2024/) - This may be premature, but I suspect this year’s Classic crop of three-year-olds may end up proving a fairly ordinary bunch. Less than a couple of lengths covered the first four home in the Irish Derby and although the result reflected well on the Epsom form, it did not enhance the profile of City Of - [Bellamy's and the art of recovery](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnaby-bellamys-and-the-art-of-recovery/) - I always thought there had to be another Bellamy’s and, of course, there is. It’s on Bruton Street, W1 and looks a rather expensive restaurant. Anywhere with a separate oyster bar will need careful consideration, yes? Bellamy’s takes its name from the establishment in Evelyn Waugh’s sublime World War II Sword of Honour trilogy. It - [How good is City Of Troy?](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-good-is-city-of-troy/) - Hi there, The overriding emotion that emanated from those close to City Of Troy following his hard fought success in the Coral-Eclipse Stakes on Saturday was more one of relief than elation, with Ryan Moore telling Nick Luck in a post-race interview that he had expected the colt to “win by 10 lengths.” Lewis Porteous, - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 17 June 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-17-june-2024/) - Having lived in Ascot for many years I can fully appreciate the quandary clerk of the course Chris Stickles faces over watering. The area is prone to very localised thunderstorms and flash floods, with torrential rain capable of changing the ground without warning. This week those conditions now seem unlikely, but a week ago rain - [Radio Days](https://www.martenjulian.com/radio-days/) - You make it to 75 and you assume that, by and large, there are very few surprises left. I’m happy to go along with this, the occasional 125/1 winner notwithstanding, but on Radio 3 the other morning I heard something which stopped me in my tracks. During the 8am news bulletin, we learned that fewer - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 10 June 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-10-june-2024/) - It came as no surprise to learn over the weekend that City Of Troy will be aimed at the Coral-Eclipse rather than the Irish Derby. Group 1 form over ten furlongs is always favoured over mile and a half form by breeders, who look for the sire to impose speed into a middle-distance or staying - [The Coral-Eclipse Plans](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-coral-eclipse-plans/) - Hi there! It came as no surprise to learn over the weekend that City Of Troy will be aimed at the Coral-Eclipse rather than the Irish Derby. Group 1 form over ten furlongs is always favoured over mile and a half form by breeders, who look for the sire to impose speed into a middle-distance - [Glorious Goodwood Beckons](https://www.martenjulian.com/glorious-goodwood-beckons/) - There was a good word circulating for Godolphin’s Kazimiera before the first race at Ascot today and the daughter of Dubawi won very much in the manner that many expected. She is the first foal of dam Kailami, a daughter of Monsun who progressed well through her career and won a Listed race over a - [A Few Quiet Ones ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-few-quiet-ones/) - I am leaving for the Isle Of Mull on Saturday for a week to recharge my batteries for Cheltenham. There are a few horses entered to run over the next few days, including one handicap debutant of special interest next Thursday, that I have been waiting for. You can hear more about them, including a - [Paul Nicholls Back To Form](https://www.martenjulian.com/paul-nicholls-back-to-form/) - Paul Nicholls will have been encouraged to send out three winners at Doncaster today. This is traditionally a quiet time of year for him, as it is about now that his horses have their ‘flu vaccinations. I believe I am right in saying he also takes a break away in the West Indies, so he - [Reflection on The Arc](https://www.martenjulian.com/reflection-on-the-arc/) - There has been a lot of comment and reflection on Sunday's Arc in the last few days, especially in relation to Treve and the reasons for her defeat. - [Frankie Dettori's resurgence back into centre stage](https://www.martenjulian.com/frankie-dettoris-resurgence-back-into-centre-stage/) - Frankie Dettori's resurgence back into centre stage continued this afternoon when Star Of Seville atoned for a troubled run in the Oaks - [A Short Break](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-short-break/) - I am away on the Isle of Mull for a few days, leaving on Saturday and returning next Friday. I have mentioned horses of interest that have entries in my absence on my line (0906 150 1555) which will be updated this evening (Friday). Calls cost £1.50 per minute at all time and more from - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 3 June 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-3-june-2024/) - Hi there I sensed a collective sigh of relief from the majority of pundits following the success of City Of Troy in the Derby last weekend. In the old days I would have said this was due to the landing of long-term ante-post bets, but that market is no longer as active as it once - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 20 May 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-20-may-2024/) - Hi there Last Friday was one of the most absorbing days of racing that I have seen in a long time. Quite why we had an afternoon clash of meetings at three top-tier tracks – Newbury, Newmarket and York – is beyond me but there were plenty of intriguing maiden races, some of which are - [Marten Julian's Weekly Roundup 14 May 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julians-weekly-roundup-14-may-2024/) - Written on Monday 13th May 2024 Hi there I’m not sure that the Derby picture is any clearer now, following the weekend trials at Lingfield and Leopardstown, than it was a week ago. Those of us of a certain age like to try to find a Sea Bird, Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Shergar or Sea The - [HIghs and lows on Epsom Downs](https://www.martenjulian.com/highs-and-lows-on-epsom-downs/) - “Don’t really know whether to congratulate or commiserate. Suppose just bad luck on all concerned to be born same century as L Piggott.” A typically warm response from the late Fred Winter in a sympathetic card to Barry Hills just after Lester and Roberto had inched out Ernie Johnson and Rheingold in the 1972 Epsom - [The Derby Picture](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-derby-picture/) - Hi there, I’m not sure that the Derby picture is any clearer now, following the weekend trials at Lingfield and Leopardstown, than it was a week ago. Those of us of a certain age like to try to find a Sea Bird, Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Shergar or Sea The Stars, but colts of that calibre - [The Spirit of Adventure](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-spirit-of-adventure/) - Hi there! I’m pretty sure that the powers that be will have breathed a collective sigh of relief when 21 of the 32 starters in the Grand National came home, with no fallers and just two horses – Mac Tottie and Delta Work – sustaining minor injuries. I still feel that the Grand National should - [Another National winner? I can do that!](https://www.martenjulian.com/another-national-winner-i-can-do-that/) - For a while Miss Alligator did her level best to earn a special place in the history books but an honourable sixth in the !949 Musidora Stakes at York was never going to be enough. Three years later she was bought for only 70 guineas at the Dublin Sales by Mr William Kennedy, a farmer - [Aintree 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/aintree-2024/) - Hi there! As you are well aware the Grand National meeting at Aintree starts on Thursday 11 April and with rain forecast for the first three days of the week the ground is expected to be soft, if not heavy in parts. I was with Nicky Richards on Friday afternoon and he told me that - [The Challenges We Face](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-challenges-we-face/) - Hi there! The Irish domination of our showpiece meeting at Cheltenham is likely to become one of the main topics of conversation again as we approach the Grand National a fortnight on Saturday, with just five of the 34 sure to get into the race trained in Britain. The five, following the decision to save - [A Great Loss](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-great-loss/) - Hi there, I have to start this piece on a sad note. As some of you may be aware, I was blessed to count Steve Harley as a friend for over forty years, so news of his illness and then death on Sunday came as a great shock. We go back to the early 80s, - [Come Up And See Me……..Make Me Smile!](https://www.martenjulian.com/come-up-and-see-me-make-me-smile/) - Ask me to name a handful of famous sculptors and until recently I’d probably have fallen about four short. Auguste Rodin rescued me and that was long before the equine version landed last year’s Epsom Derby. Rodin’s most famous work was The Thinker, who won perhaps the most ‘atmospheric’ of Cheltenham Gold Cups in 1987. - [Eyecatchers](https://www.martenjulian.com/eyecatchers/) - Hi there, This week, away from the political scene, the weights for the nine handicaps at Cheltenham are published. As you may know I always like to dig out the plots for these races … Sire Du Berlais was a big one for us when he got up an under an inspired Barry Geraghty to - [A Handsome Sailor gone too soon](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-handsome-sailor-gone-too-soon/) - Cambridge came and went too soon. I see that now and foolishly think of going back, even at this late stage, to write a thesis on some aspect of Marcel Proust’s oeuvre that others have missed. Three years half a century ago should have furnished a handful of memories more vivid than Gaykart just pipping - [A Tragic Loss](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-tragic-loss/) - Hi there! I was going to start this piece with an expression of my disappointment in the aftermath of the weekend’s action at Leopardstown but the news of the tragic death of 25-year-old Keagan Kirkby, who has been part of Paul Nicholls’s team since 2019, in a point-to-point at Charing on Sunday has put everything - [Chubby rides The Carousel - with a little help from his friends](https://www.martenjulian.com/chubby-rides-the-carousel-with-a-little-help-from-his-friends/) - For quite a long time I couldn’t work out why Charles Benson entered my thoughts as often as he did. He’s been gone for several years and it wasn’t as if we had a great deal in common, though we were both racing journalists who enjoyed a bet. We got along rather well, the Old - [Cheltenham Musings](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-musings/) - Hi there! May I start by wishing you all a very healthy and successful 2024. Many people around the world will be keen to see the back of 2023, especially from a political and ecological perspective, but racing – famously described as the ‘great triviality’ by the late Phil Bull – remains an intriguing diversion - [Willy Kambwala](https://www.martenjulian.com/willy-kambwala/) - Manchester United drew 0-0 at Liverpool last time out, with the Red Devils showing plenty of fighting spirit to earn a point at Anfield , a ground where they have struggled for quite some time. The fighting spirit United showed us an intrinsic part of what the club represents, but another huge part of the - [THE DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-days-of-wine-and-roses/) - ‘Then, while the wheel is spinning, the Jack of Diamonds is waiting or Hemingway’s bunch of skins is hurtling towards the furlong pole, we’re not thinking about anything else, regretting anything else or checking the time. This is where we live.’ The above appears in the foreword to The Long Road From Portman Square, a - [An enigma ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/an-enigma/) - Hi there! If ever I were asked to nominate just one golden rule for betting, and believe me I have dwelt on this long into the wee small hours, then it would be to follow a yard in form and, conversely, be wary of yards out of form. I remember many years ago, when I - [Autumn in New York? Yes please](https://www.martenjulian.com/autumn-in-new-york-yes-please/) - Not long ago, Katey Kontent finished a very good second at Salisbury. She was carrying 9st 10lbs and was up against colts and geldings so it was a very fair effort. I think of all the people on course and in betting shops risking a few coins, or even a few notes, on this interestingly-named - [Jumps Season 2023/24](https://www.martenjulian.com/jumps-season-2023-24/) - We are pleased to release our porfolio for the 2023/24 Jumps Season. Marten started the business in 1970 and as the majority of our services are written by Marten we are naturally starting to scale back as we are now in our 53rd year of trading. We very happily published 44 editions of our Cheltenham - [Marathon Man required? Send for the Doyler](https://www.martenjulian.com/marathon-man-required-send-for-the-doyler/) - The going at Goodwood has been soft or heavy more often than not this year and nothing changed on their final day in October. You have to make the circumstances work in your favour if possible and that was certainly the case with Paul and Oliver Cole's Thunder Ball, who had recent course form over - [City Of Troy](https://www.martenjulian.com/city-of-troy/) - Hi there, Well you don’t need me to tell you that the big talking point over the weekend was the performance of City Of Troy in the Dewhurst Stakes, with plenty of discussion afterwards about the relative merits of the colt in comparison with some of the great names of the past, most notably Frankel. - [HIGHS AND LOWS WITH FRED AND ARCHIE](https://www.martenjulian.com/highs-and-lows-with-fred-and-archie/) - If I believed in ghosts I might find Islington Green a suitable starting point for a thesis. Trendy, even chic it may be nowadays but in the seventeenth century it was used as a plague pit - a little-known fact unlikely to trouble those queuing outside the Screen on the Green, which has always put - [A Busy Weekend](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-busy-weekend/) - Hi there! With Arc trials at Longchamp on Sunday and Group 1 action in Ireland you could be forgiven for overlooking the victory of Bay Bridge in the September Stakes at Kempton on Saturday. With a BHA rating of 121 he was entitled to win this race, and duly started at odds of 8/11 to - [A LA RECHERCHE DU FAILAND PERDU](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-la-recherche-du-failand-perdu/) - Like Marcel Proust, I drift back to the places of my youth. Some have disappeared, some have become something else and some are simply too loud. Actually it might be stretching a point to mention my formative years where the Failand Inn is concerned because I was already 37 when we moved to the Bristol - [The Point-To-Point Recruits](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-point-to-point-recruits/) - THE POINT-TO-POINT RECRUITS is back for the sixth consecutive year and Jodie Standing anticipates another successful season! The book is packed with over 90 undiscovered horses from the pointing world set to embark on their careers under Rules. As her regular readers expect, Jodie has once again left no stone unturned in her quest at - [Rainy Day People](https://www.martenjulian.com/rainy-day-people/) - The rain falls gently yet insistently on the Nine Elms Tavern which, like the rest of the borough, has undergone something of a transformation. One minute it was Battersea’s little-known cousin - nondescript flats, a little bit of this and that on street corners, no questions asked, guv. Plenty of material here for an English - [Ponderings from the Weekend](https://www.martenjulian.com/ponderings-from-the-weekend/) - Hi there, Before I pass on my thoughts about the Irish Derby I want to bring to your notice the victory of Manxman in the opening extended 1m 3f 0-55 apprentice handicap at Windsor on Saturday. I would not blame you for not giving this modest contest on a busy weekend a second glance, but - [Saka Shines as England get Seven](https://www.martenjulian.com/saka-shines-england-seven/) - Written by Jack Dixon Another match in Euro qualifying and another win for England, thumping North Macedonia 7-0 at Old Trafford. The win against Malta was impressive, but it was slightly scrappy and there was, at times, a lack of intensity in the final-third to truly put Malta to the sword. But England went for - [Job done in Malta for England](https://www.martenjulian.com/job-done-in-malta-for-england/) - England leave Malta with four goals and three points secured, beating Malta 4-0. The three lions were dominant all evening, having 66% possession and prevented Malta from registering a single shot on Jordan Pickford’s goal. England turned dominance into substance, managing to convert the big chances when they came. England took the lead as Trent - [A long way from Alberta -  but Cricklewood will do](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-long-way-from-alberta-but-cricklewood-will-do/) - Gordon Lightfoot died the other day. I dare say only members of my generation will remember him but he was a folk and country singer who let Alberta’s wide-open spaces compensate for disappointments in his personal life. We played him in the Cricklewood house all the time back in 1973; would-be accountants working hard to - [The Fallout from Epsom](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-fallout-from-epsom/) - Hi there, After all the debate and discussion about the possible ramifications of this year’s Derby it ended up going to the old firm across the water and the long-term winter favourite. Auguste Rodin gave Aidan O’Brien his ninth winner of the Classic, confirming last season’s Futurity form with King Of Steel albeit by a - [The Epsom Conundrum](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-epsom-conundrum/) - Hi there! Given the open shape of the market before the Dante Stakes at York last Thursday – they ended up 9/2 the field – there was always the prospect of the race adding little clarity to an already opaque Derby picture. As you were aware from last week’s preview I was very keen on - [The Days Ahead …](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-days-ahead/) - Hi there! I am incredibly excited about the enhancements we are introducing to The Weekend Card, starting this week with the publication of my Premier List and Sleeper qualifiers, the latter incorporating a few handicap projects and unraced horses. As you may have gathered, I have grown very attached to this service since it started - [Racing In A Mist - But Memories As Clear As Day](https://www.martenjulian.com/racing-in-a-mist/) - George Materna, a dedicated Goodwood supporter, missed the first Saturday in early May. This was because his second daughter (of five) was having her pre-marriage ‘hen’ do in his box. I was the tipster and the only man there. Needless to say, I soon made my excuses and left, with an afternoon to fill on - [It's All Kicking Off ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/its-all-kicking-off/) - Hi there! Well no sooner have we had three days at Aintree, culminating in Saturday’s Grand National, than the Craven meeting starts at Newmarket today and it’s then just three weeks before we’re back there for the Guineas meeting. It’s a tremendously exciting time of year, especially for those of you who share my passion - [The Grand National Preview by Ronan Groome](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-grand-national-preview-by-ronan-groome/) - The Grand National isn’t the race it once was and last year was the clearest indication of that. A seven-year-old novice chaser with just six completed starts over fences would have done well to get around the course pre 2013 (when they altered the fences) but this is a winning profile now. Noble Yeats was - [Ah, the sweet smell of success - nearly](https://www.martenjulian.com/ah-the-sweet-smell-of-success-nearly/) - My Aunt Kate and Uncle Doug lived at 8 Methuen Street in Southampton. They are long gone but, like Marcel Proust, I wander the narrow street now and again. I doubt that Marcel was ever seen in Southampton because he favoured the Bois de Boulogne and the Rue Caumartin but you know what I mean. - [Some horses stay with us](https://www.martenjulian.com/some-horses-stay-with-us/) - It was hardly the sort of race to fire the imagination so close to Cheltenham but, to my intense satisfaction and a handy profit to boot, Suzi’s Connoisseur went in at 9/1 at Lingfield the other day. He is twelve years old, hadn’t won in 31 tries since his last success at Newmarket in 2019 - [Match Report: Superb Scotland Beat Toothless Spain](https://www.martenjulian.com/match-report-superb-scotland-beat-toothless-spain/) - A great night at Hampden Park for Scotland as Steve Clarke’s side beat possession hungry Spain 2-0, thanks to a brace from Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay. As per usual, Spain had a lot of the ball, 75% possession on this occasion, but like we saw in Qatar during the World Cup, they were very - [The Weekend Card](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-weekend-card/) - After a considerable amount of thought and discussion we have decided to retain the Weekend Card for the new Flat season. I have found that the dropping of the Dark Horses Annual has relieved me of a great deal of pressure, at a particularly busy time of year, while I have concluded that much of - [Newsletter & Weekly Roundup](https://www.martenjulian.com/newsletter-weekly-roundup/) - Looking for a free weekly dose of insights on the latest happenings in the racing world? Look no further than Marten’s Weekly Roundup! Every Monday, Marten offers his unique perspective on the latest topics in the racing world, all delivered straight to your inbox, and frequently featuring issues, races and horses not covered anywhere else. - [Cheltenham Festival 2023](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-festival-2023/) - Our 44th and final Cheltenham Bulletin Book is available to download for Cheltenham Enhanced Package clients. Our Cheltenham services start from £15 - if you are interested and have any questions, please contact me. Cheltenham starts on Tuesday 14 March. Here is a breakdown of the races for each of the four days. Rebecca - [The Threat From Across The Water](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-threat-from-across-the-water/) - Hi there, The message is coming through load and clear that the home team will be struggling to keep the Irish at bay when Cheltenham starts in a fortnight’s time. We got an early indication of that in Saturday’s Adonis Hurdle at Kempton, where Joseph O’Brien’s Nusret comfortably beat a field that included Scriptwriter who, - [Cheltenham 2023](https://www.martenjulian.com/finalbulletinbook/) - It is with a tinge of sadness that the team and I are writing this final edition of the Cheltenham Bulletin Book. We have had dozens of kind and moving messages from clients, some of whom have been with us since the early editions over 40 years ago, expressing their sorrow at the decision but - [Why Shishkin Should Run In The Gold Cup](https://www.martenjulian.com/why-shishkin-should-run-in-the-gold-cup/) - Hi there, At last we had something to get our teeth into over the weekend, with two top-class performances from Shishkin and I Like To Move It. Starting with I Like To Move It, as many of you will be aware I was very keen on his chance in Saturday’s Kingwell Hurdle despite there being - [Course Records Tumble ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/course-records-tumble/) - Hi there! I can’t believe that writing now, just a month before Cheltenham, I have found myself focusing on the low-grade all-weather racing in an effort to seek out something interesting to pass on to my subscribers. I actually quite enjoy trying to unearth a few ‘plots’ on the all-weather during the first couple of - [The Dublin Festival Fallout](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-dublin-festival-fallout/) - Hi there! Willie Mullins duly had an impressive tally of eight winners over the two-day Dublin Racing Festival but a few of them took some finding and he had four short-priced reverses with Blue Lord at 1/4, Lossiemouth 1/3, Facile Vega at 4/9 and Appreciate It at 11/8. It's hard to know where to start - [Alberts here, Alberts there.....](https://www.martenjulian.com/alberts-here-alberts-there/) - You can think things through and still make an error of judgement, we all accept that, though how long we think about it afterwards varies from person to person. 'Tomorrow is another day' seems to suit many people and I envy them to a degree. I regret things from fifty years ago and think about - [Opinion Piece: Marcel Sabitzer](https://www.martenjulian.com/opinion-piece-marcel-sabitzer/) - Written by Jack Dixon After a relatively quiet January transfer window for Manchester United, with Wout Weghorst the only arrival up until the 31st, not much was expected from United heading into the final days of the window. But against Reading on the 28th of January, Christian Eriksen, a key player in Erik ten Hag’s - [The Cheltenham Prospects](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-cheltenham-prospects/) - Hi there! There was plenty on offer at Cheltenham on Saturday, even if a few of the results raised more questions than answers. I liked the way that Comfort Zone and Scriptwriter pulled clear of the third in the opening Triumph Trial, with the winner’s only defeat from four starts over hurdles coming when beaten - [HALFWAY TO PARADISE  -  BUT LET'S SLOW DOWN A BIT](https://www.martenjulian.com/halfway-to-paradise-but-lets-slow-down-a-bit/) - For quite a long time it was Italian restaurants but now the list has moved on to people, which it was bound to in the end. Mama Rosa and La Paesana were opposite each other in Notting Hill Gate, the proverbial stone's throw from the Arlecchino, which mercifully survives. But the Venice on Great Titchfield - [Galopin Des Champs](https://www.martenjulian.com/galopin-des-champs/) - Hi there, We were a little bit short of action on the turf last week but we had a treat at Punchestown on Monday when current Gold Cup favourite Galopin Des Champs and top novice chaser Appreciate It turned up for their seasonal debuts. As you may be aware from my Gold Cup preview I - [The fallout from last weekend](https://www.martenjulian.com/62434-2/) - Hi there, There will be mixed feelings over the events that took place last weekend. Starting at Sandown on Saturday, I thought the 7/1 initially on offer about Edwardstone was on the generous side for the Tingle Creek Chase. Apparently Alan King felt the horse would come on appreciably for the run, but there was - [The ghosts of Christmas past](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-ghosts-of-christmas-past/) - Walking down Northlands Road the other day I thought about Hampshire cricket, the late John Arlott and Hambledon, the famous old village which may not have given birth to the game but undoubtedly nursed it through the teething process and beyond. It was probably also John's spiritual home, though he was actually born and raised - [Will Honeysuckle provide her biggest magic moment yet with poignant win in the Hatton's Grace Hurdle?](https://www.martenjulian.com/will-honeysuckle-provide-her-biggest-magic-moment-yet-with-poignant-win-in-the-hattons-grace-hurdle/) - IRISH PERSPECTIVE by Ronan Groome It’s some day at Fairyhouse on Sunday. It always is. Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, Drinmore, Royal Bond. A triple Grade 1 meeting. And all the rest. The Drinmore and Royal Bond should unearth a couple of top class novices for hurdles and chasing. The field sizes for Sunday are very healthy. - [Constitution Hill](https://www.martenjulian.com/constitution-hill/) - I just want to write a few words about Constitution Hill. I had suggested beforehand that the five-year-old, who had yet to race outside novice company, was too short at 1/4 to concede 7lbs to Epatante, the winner of six Grade 1s including a Champion Hurdle, two places in the same race and two victories - [England V Iran Review](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-iran-review/) - England Match Review: Relentless Three Lions score six in Group B opener England have got their World Cup campaign truly up and running with a dazzling 6-2 win over Iran. Iran, currently managed by former Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz, had not conceded more than two goals in a game for three years. This - [World Cup Opinion Piece](https://www.martenjulian.com/world-cup-opinion-piece/) - First of all I would like to say this article isn’t everything I wanted it to be. I wanted to write a long analytical article, like I did for the EUROs. However, due to a mixture of working and sickness I’ve been limited to this. In this article I’m going to name four teams I - [Why I think Danny Welbeck should go to Qatar](https://www.martenjulian.com/why-i-think-danny-welbeck-should-go-to-qatar/) - There’s been much discussion about which striker Gareth Southgate should select to deputise for Harry Kane at the 2022 World Cup. There are no standout candidates, with recently capped Tammy Abraham and Dominic Calvert-Lewin both struggling for goals this season. The most in-form England strikers, apart from Harry Kane, are Newcastle’s Callum Wilson and Brentford’s - [Busy Times Ahead](https://www.martenjulian.com/busy-times-ahead/) - Hi there! It was good to see Bravemansgame back to something close to his best in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on Saturday. The seven-year-old won his first four chases last season before ending the campaign finishing last of four, beaten 30 lengths by Ahoy Senor, at Aintree. The winner was made 11/10 to - [Mick Channon's Retirement](https://www.martenjulian.com/mick-channons-retirement/) - Hi there! I was saddened, but not surprised, to read that Mick Channon has decided to bring to an end his 33-year training career at the close of this season. Our paths met fleetingly many years ago, when he first started with a small string of horses, but then more recently a mutual friend suggested - [Making the special moments count](https://www.martenjulian.com/making-the-special-moments-count/) - I ebb slightly. It's just a silly phase I'm going through. (10cc around 1975? I think so.) My Brighton day was good fun, which is all I ask, but everything has gone up and for the first time in ages I find myself needing a winner or two. Needing as opposed to wanting, that is. - [The future looks bright for Manchester United](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-future-looks-bright-for-manchester-united/) - Erik ten Hag has had a mostly positive start to life as Manchester United boss. Since the first two games, both defeats, and taking away a bad day at the office against the neighbours Manchester City, United have steadily improved. In the first two games against Brighton and Brentford we saw an attempt to replicate - [Rugby League Grand Final 2022](https://www.martenjulian.com/rugy-league-grand-final/) - Today sees the Grand Final which is being played at Old Trafford and it features League Shield winners St Helens and Leeds, who finished fifth in the regular season, a whopping thirteen points behind today’s opponents. Admittedly Leeds are in good form winning 10 of their last 12 matches but they will be missing influential - [Reflections on the Arc](https://www.martenjulian.com/thoughts-on-the-arc/) - Hi there! Few results could have given the visiting racegoers to Paris on Sunday greater pleasure than the victory of Alpinista in Europe’s greatest race. Although she had sound claims on the book – having won five consecutive Group 1 races which included a defeat of last year’s subsequent Arc winner Torquator Tasso at Hoppegarten - [More than this - quite a bit more, actually](https://www.martenjulian.com/more-than-this-quite-a-bit-more-actually/) - I seem to have changed horses in midstream, as we used to say. This was going to be about the Heineken Silver Handicap at Goodwood, the startling ability of Harry Davies and Saffie Osborne and the way a very clever gamble on runner-up Carp Kid went astray by inches. Then there were some Goodwood memories, - [My thoughts on the latest England squad](https://www.martenjulian.com/my-thoughts-on-the-latest-england-squad/) - Gareth Southgate’s latest England squad has dropped. It’s the last squad before the World Cup and it’s caused some real discussion amongst both England and football fans. So here I’m going to share my thoughts on the squad overall, who I’m surprised got called up and certain opinions I have that seem to be controversial. - [Mick did it his way](https://www.martenjulian.com/mick-did-it-his-way/) - I was looking back over some old columns the other day. It's inadvisable because there are bound to be a few slips, a few omissions, an old joke that may not have been quite as funny as you thought at the time. Going way back, I wrote that I'd like I Apologise by Billy Eckstine - [Baaeed - The Big Debate](https://www.martenjulian.com/baaeed-the-big-debate/) - Hi there! I’m not sure how the Racing Post would be filling its pages at the moment were it not for the existence of Baaeed. He is an exceptionally talented horse but I think to compare him to other great horses of the past is spurious or, at the very least, pointless. For a start, - [Sands Of Time Running Out - But Shingles Going Strong](https://www.martenjulian.com/sands-of-time-running-out-but-shingles-going-strong/) - I have reached the stage where I dare not forecast what will happen next, though obviously I'd be seriously tempted by a Brighton sprint handicap. Goodwood was as enjoyable as ever, or maybe not quite, given that I contracted shingles quite early on. It's a strange business; my back aches at the best of times - [Premier League Predictions](https://www.martenjulian.com/premier-league-predictions/) - The Premier League 2022/23 I’m not normally one for predictions. I like to share my thoughts and views surrounding things happening in football and like to leave readers with the chance to take my views and opinions on board to then build their own beliefs/views from there. However before major competitions begin, I do like - [Pellistri and Amad, two young prospects getting lost?](https://www.martenjulian.com/pellistri-and-amad-two-young-prospects-getting-lost/) - In 2020 Manchester United made four deadline day signings in the wake of a disappointing first few games of the season and a humiliating 6-1 defeat to Tottenham. Left-back Alex Telles and experienced striker Edinson Cavani were both brought in, but deals were also agreed for two eighteen-year-old prospects in Facundo Pellistri and Amad Diallo, - [Nelson (and Billy) never forgotten here](https://www.martenjulian.com/nelson-and-billy-never-forgotten-here/) - The Jolly Sailor at Bursledon is not a bad place to contemplate one or two major Goodwood investments. It's also one of those hostelries where you wonder if casual customers, especially tourists, know anything of its past. Nothing controversial like the Blind Beggar on the Mile End Road or the Plumbers Arms in Pimlico, it - [Help us by writing a review](https://www.martenjulian.com/help-us-by-writing-a-review/) - It is harder and harder to get the word out there about our books. Most weeks sometimes says to me "I had no idea how much you did" or over the last couple of years "I wish I knew you published The Two-Year-Old Guide." We would love help from clients in the way of reviews - [Did We See The Arc Winner?](https://www.martenjulian.com/did-we-see-the-arc-winner/) - Hi there! The Coral-Eclipse stole the headlines this weekend but I want to start by passing on a few thoughts about the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud that took place yesterday. Few trainers are as familiar with the programme book as Sir Mark Prescott, but we usually associate him with placing progressive handicappers at a modest - [Tyrell Malacia by Jack Dixon](https://www.martenjulian.com/tyrell-malacia-by-jack-dixon/) - Manchester United have completed the signing of Dutch international Tyrell Malacia. The 22-year-old left-back has only ever previously featured for Dutch giants Feyenoord and his national team. Malacia has impressed over the last couple of years at Feyenoord, getting into the Netherlands set-up under former Manchester United manager Louie van Gaal. Malacia has five senior - [Take Care Frankie ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-darkness-and-the-light/) - If ever you wanted to see an example of the importance of confidence in a sportsman, then all you need to do is look back at the week Frankie Dettori had at Royal Ascot. It has been well known for years that Frankie is susceptible to mood swings but there is no one who rides - [Plenty of ghosts for company](https://www.martenjulian.com/plenty-of-ghosts-for-company/) - ‘I wasted time and now doth time waste me’. Well, it's not quite true, as any flaneur will tell you. Sitting in the main bar at Brighton and pondering a weak card at Salisbury - a racecourse he passed all of three hours ago - is hardly a waste of time. Briefly leaving the A36 - [Big-priced winners](https://www.martenjulian.com/59213-2/) - The Two-Year-Old Guide 2022 continues to point the way towards big-priced winners! Rage Of Bamby scores at Newbury at 14/1 for Eve Johnson Houghton who described her as "one of our earlier fillies and quite fast....I imagine she'll require 6f to begin with." And the 14/1 victory duly arrives over the six. Page from the - [The Cost of Congestion ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-cost-of-congestion/) - Hi there, No, I’m not boasting. Just a quiet whinge that in the maelstrom of the congested Programme Book this 12/1 gem, hidden away in the last race at Goodwood this evening, slipped through the net. Yes, I have Horse Tracker and a team to support me, but even so there is no excuse. The - [Westover - One That Got Away?](https://www.martenjulian.com/westover-one-that-got-away/) - Hi there, I’m not sure what many of us would have made of Saturday’s Derby if runner-up Hoo Ya Mal had won the race at 150/1. One of trainer Andrew Balding’s reasons for running the colt was that he had finished second to Nations Pride and as Godolphin had seen fit to supplement that winner - [Some loan players that could shine under Ten Hag](https://www.martenjulian.com/some-loan-players-that-could-shine-under-ten-hag/) - When a new manager comes into a club, one of the first things people look to is what players they can bring into the club to help them straight away. So with all the articles out there on transfers and transfer targets, I’ve decided to do an article on some current Manchester United loan players - [The Weekend Card: Jubilee Edition](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-weekend-card-jubilee-edition/) - Marten writes: “This bumper Platinum Jubilee edition of the Weekend Card is packed with features, including my 1,700-plus word preview of the Derby, my thoughts on the Oaks, additional pieces from two exciting new writers Laura Joy and Jordan Hopkins, an article about the history of the Queen’s horses by Ian Carnaby, Dan Briden’s Two-Year-Old - [UEAFA Champions League Final 2022](https://www.martenjulian.com/ueafa-champions-league-final-2022/) - Another season of dramatic and unpredictable Champions League football is nearing it’s end as Liverpool face Real Madrid in the Champions League Final in Paris. Two European giants come face to face in a repeat of the 2018 final, which Real Madrid won 3-1, with a goal from Karim Benzema and a brace from impact - [Bay Bridge](https://www.martenjulian.com/bay-bridge/) - Hi there, Some of you will be aware that I have expressed great enthusiasm in my publications for the prospects of Bay Bridge this season, but for all that I was surprised by the change of gear he unleashed to pull five lengths clear of Mostahdaf in last night’s Group 3 Brigadier Gerard Stakes at - [Wonderful World](https://www.martenjulian.com/wonderful-world/) - AND I THINK TO MYSELF.... The other day Wonderful World finished sixth in a fairly valuable seven-furlong handicap at Goodwood. He moved up threateningly two furlongs out but faded soon afterwards and ended up just behind Gisburn, who also beat him, by a similar margin, when they were juveniles. As Wonderful World is trained by - [A Trainer To Note](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-trainer-to-note/) - Hi there, I have a great deal of respect for David Menuisier. He places his horses extremely well and talks eloquently and with insight about their prospects or achievements. It will be interesting to see how he gets on with Lionel, who looks a natural for the St Leger in the long-term but may be - [Flesh And Blood](https://www.martenjulian.com/flesh-and-blood/) - Hi there! It’s the conventional practice to boast about successes in this business, but after over 50 years I have learnt that you are never in charge where racehorses are concerned and, in the oft-quoted words, it is a ‘great leveller.’ I was once within earshot of Sheikh Mohammed when he said that horses were - [Three To Note](https://www.martenjulian.com/58518-2/) - Hi there! It may seem perverse to bring your attention to a horse that finished last, but I think that Rawyaan is worth bearing in mind for a fast-ground handicap at some point this summer. Trained by Marcus Tregoning last season, the three-year-old grey won two of his four starts, a maiden at Brighton and - [Irish Classics 2022](https://www.martenjulian.com/irish-classics-2022/) - A crowd will be on hand to watch the first Irish classics of the season for the first time since 2019 this weekend at the Curragh, where the Irish Guineas Festival kicks off on Friday. The Irish 2,000 Guineas can be hit and miss, but in Native Trail, the race has a real top class - [A Star In The Making](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-star-in-the-making/) - Hi there! No prizes for guessing today’s big eye-catcher. My Astra was far and away the most impressive winner of the day, pulling 12 lengths clear to win the 1m 2f Listed Rothesay Stakes at Ayr from an Irish raider rated 6lbs her superior, with a rival rated 8lbs better a neck back in third. - [A Couple of Eye-Catchers](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-couple-of-eye-catchers/) - Hi there! I am indebted to the readers who got back to me to explain that the Tote now guarantee to pay at least the industry returned SP on win bets or, when the Tote dividend is greater than SP, the higher amount. This is another welcome concession to the backer and it is something - [Introducing Jordan Hopkins](https://www.martenjulian.com/introducing-jordan-hopkins/) - Jordan is a new contributor to our team and has written an article in our Two-Year-Old Guide on the two-year-old scene in France. Here you can learn a little more about him. Growing up 10 miles from Newmarket, I have had an avid interest in horse racing from a young age, regularly attending race meetings - [Ante-Post ... A Dead Duck?](https://www.martenjulian.com/ante-post-a-dead-duck/) - Hi there! I’m not sure whether the figures back this up, but I can’t believe the ante-post market is anything like as vibrant as it once was. The concessions offered on extended place terms are now so attractive for the big meetings such as Cheltenham and Royal Ascot, together with the opportunity for NRNB, that - [Introducing Laura Joy](https://www.martenjulian.com/introducing-laura-joy/) - Laura is a new contributor to our team and has written an article in our Two-Year-Old Guide on first crop sires. Here you can learn a little more about her. I developed my passion for racing late in life relative to most, coming from a non-equine background. I always liked it, but it wasn't until - [FA Youth Cup Profiles for Manchester United!...](https://www.martenjulian.com/fa-youth-cup-profiles-for-manchester-united/) - I’ve always been a massive fan not just of Manchester United, but of the various youth teams as well! So I’m absolutely buzzing that the U18 lads have managed to make it all the way to the FA Youth Cup Final, to be played at Old Trafford on Wednesday the 11th of May… I’ve watched - [Erik Ten Hag… Tactics](https://www.martenjulian.com/erik-ten-hag-tactics/) - Erik Ten Hag has been confirmed as Manchester United’s new manager. The Dutchman has signed a three-year deal, with the option of a further year. So, with the current Ajax boss taking over Old Trafford in a tough spot after the club’s worst Premier League season, what can we expect to see in terms of - [The bosses nephew - an all-time equine hero](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-bosses-nephew-an-all-time-equine-hero/) - Britain is a small island and Wales a small country. That seems a fair assessment until you try to reach Fishguard from Bristol for the night ferry to Rosslare because, suddenly, you run out of M4. You are on your own against the clock on dark roads with all sensible Taffies tucked up in bed. - [A big Sandown double](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-sandown-double/) - 22 April 2022 The longer-term value of the Two-Year-Old Guide really came to the fore on the high-class opening day of Sandown's Flat season. WESTOVER (R. Beckett) "He is a tall, sizeable individual who finds things easy, though I don't imagine we will be galloping him properly until the summer. That said, I can - [The Two-Year-Old Guide 2022](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-two-year-old-guide-2022/) - After just two editions – both delivered during the global pandemic – The Two-Year-Old Guide by Dan Briden has unquestionably made a significant impact in the world of racing literature and firmly established itself as the go-to work regarding juvenile talent. The response from the media, racing insiders and the punting community alike has been - [England going forwards… Back-three or back-four?](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-going-forwards-back-three-or-back-four/) - Gareth Southgate has signed an extension and looks set to managed the England national team for the foreseeable future. So with that in mind let’s look forwards to the fast-approaching World Cup and what kind of system, tactical approach and formation he may look to implement… Southgate has shown great tactical flexibility during his tenure - [Hopes and dreams beyond Naas Road](https://www.martenjulian.com/hopes-and-dreams-beyond-naas-road/) - Truth to tell, I struggle to keep up with modern expressions although I can see the attractions of a 'bucket list'. I read Ulysses and Proust's In Search Of Lost Time a few years ago but Don Quixote in its entirety remains a challenge. I have yet to visit Venice off-season and follow Donald Sutherland's - [Wednesday 25 July 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/wednesday-25-july-2001-2/) - Australia won the Second Test easily enough, and are only 7’4 in places to complete a 5-0 whitewash in the Ashes series. As I wrote some time ago, there is no value at all in that sort of bet, although I imagine those who snapped up the 16’1 about a clean sweep before a ball was - [Saturday 4 August 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/saturday-4-august-2001-2/) - The fact that England looked like pressing Australia all the way (if three days can be all the way) in the Third Test underlined the fact that 7’4 about an Aussie whitewash in the Ashes series was poor value. The way things are going, it is often best to have a bet ‘in running’, because - [Monday 23 July 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/monday-23-july-2001/) - There are times when one needs to take a break and approach the form-book from a fresh perspective. When Lone Piper won at Doncaster last Wednesday, quickly followed by Kilmeena Lad at Kempton, I was mining a fairly profitable seam. Harsh reality stepped in when Pacific Place finished unplaced in a maiden sprint handicap at Ripon on - [Wednesday 25 July 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/wednesday-25-july-2001/) - Brighton on Monday was just about perfect - warm sunshine, a light sea breeze, and enough winning favourites to keep hardened punters happy. The days when 300 special trains and buses guaranteed that the old course would be packed to the seams are long gone, of course, but Stan Clarke and his team have done - [Tuesday 31 July 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/tuesday-31-july-2001-2/) - Like everyone else, I found Saturday’s King George at Ascot a riveting spectacle, and the fact that the first two left the others for dead suggests the form is out of the very highest bracket. Just one point in passing: Fantastic Light actually drew level at one point, but Galileo pulled two lengths clear again - [Wednesday 1 August 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/wednesday-1-august-2001-2/) - It was surprising on Tuesday when Double Oscar could not quite match Sharp Hat in the last at Beverley. The Nicholls sprinter is particularly well at present and should soon find a winning opportunity. My thoughts after the King George Stakes at Goodwood were that Ivory Dawn was in no way handicapped by a high - [Saturday 4 August 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/saturday-4-august-2001/) - In some ways, it has been business as usual at Goodwood. Zuhair won on Wednesday - the third time he has won this five furlong handicap - and then gave best to stable-companion Flak Jacket over the extra furlong on Friday. David Nicholls ‘reads’ these races like a man with second sight, and it is - [Friday 3 August 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/friday-3-august-2001/) - I’ve decided to take a few days off in order to recharge the batteries for the autumn campaign, which is usually a very profitable time of year for me. Ian Carnaby will be standing in on the main line 09068 888 102 until I return on Sunday, 11 August. Don’t forget that the Summer Bulletin Book was published earlier - [Wednesday 1 August 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/wednesday-1-august-2001/) - Looking back to the Galway Plate, and Christy Roche did a good job on Grimes, who got into this handicap chase off 128 - a mark 26lb below is current hurdles’ rating. He was always travelling comfortably and won this valuable race with something in hand. I’m writing this before Barney Curley’s Kalingalinga has run in the extended - [Tuesday 31 July 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/tuesday-31-july-2001/) - Looking back to yesterday, I was disappointed to see Trilogy outpaced from such an early stage of the Richmond Stakes. He didn’t move that well going to post and an ominous lack of strength in the market suggested he didn’t carry the measure of confidence I’d like to have seen. I doubt very much if - [Monday 30 July 2001](https://www.martenjulian.com/56832-2/) - I completed work on the Summer Bulletin Book on Sunday evening. I must say that there's plenty of valuable information in it, especially regarding handicappers for the autumn, but whether we'll match the almost 80% strike-rate achieved by the 'dark horses' in the Spring Bulletin Book remains to be seen. That's the best we've done in thirty years. Anyway, - [On the wings of a dove](https://www.martenjulian.com/on-the-wings-of-a-dove/) - Knockabout Queen won my selling race at Brighton in 2019. She followed up at Bath and was too high in the handicap for a while but I followed her career closely and was rewarded the other day when she picked up a very modest Class 6 at Southwell at 10/1, backed down from 18/1 quite - [The Cheltenham Bankers ... Value?](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-cheltenham-bankers-value/) - Hi there, As you are probably aware I have always tried to find value against short-priced horses, but in my Champion Hurdle preview in the Dark Horses Jumps Guide I had to follow the flow, writing about Honeysuckle: “I am loath to say it, but 2/1 could actually be ‘value’ for this remarkable mare.” There - [City Boy marooned in the country](https://www.martenjulian.com/city-boy-marooned-in-the-country/) - It was around the time that young Archie Bellamy lost his irons on Lively Citizen that I started to miss London. Sitting in the Insurance Bar at Cheltenham and unable to move with a cracked knee - no more on that, I promise - it seemed to me that the course specialist had a very - [Three Uncapped Lions who I’d like to see get call-ups](https://www.martenjulian.com/three-uncapped-lions-who-id-like-to-see-get-call-ups-by-jack-dixon/) - As an England fan and having talked with other England fans older than me, it seems we’re experiencing a really talented generation of footballers. It’s difficult to remember a time when a place in the England squad is so competitive. Gone are the days when there are twenty or so guaranteed names. Gareth Southgate has - [The Wounded Healer](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-wounded-healer/) - Life is a struggle. In the context of world events it can, for many, be all too much. So I don’t want anyone reading this to think I am unaware of the misfortunes of others. There is always someone worse off than we are. However, as my father once told me, “If it’s important for - [Another squall, fifty-three years on](https://www.martenjulian.com/another-squall-fifty-three-years-on/) - Of course, it's always wrong, or at least inadvisable, to go looking for a bet. I was happy enough with Thomas Darby and Samarrive, both at handy prices, and it's not as if there was anything I'd been waiting for with Christmas in mind; no African Chimes and Emma O'Gorman and certainly no Spunyarn, sent - [Sailing Close To The Wind](https://www.martenjulian.com/55147-2/) - Hi there! As someone who has always tried to think outside the box, I like to keep on the lookout for possible touches, especially in poor contests at lower-profile venues. Last season I wrote about a few of them, none more so than the remarkable Dreal Deal, who progressed from a mark of 84 to - [Sample of Marten's Daily Analysis](https://www.martenjulian.com/sample-of-martens-daily-analysis/) - This email is a sample for his Complete Service. Clients who join this service receive an email from Marten everyday by noon. They also receive every publication he publishes during the season as well as being email to him or speak to him with their racing queries. Please look in our online shop or contact - [A Reality Check ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/an-important-weekend/) - Hi there, I’m not sure that the going is quite as soft as some courses are claiming at the moment. I know how hard it is to provide appropriate jumping ground during dry spells but to my eyes, especially in the long-distance chases, the majority of horses are finishing fresher than you would expect in - [Ralf Rangnick… What does he bring to Manchester United?](https://www.martenjulian.com/ralf-rangnick-what-does-he-bring-to-manchester-united/) - Ralf Rangnick has been confirmed as the new Manchester United interim manager, with the idea that he’ll then move into a consultancy role at the club for a further two years. So, what will the 63-year-old German bring to the Red Devils? Rangnick is very well respected in the coaching world and is often referred - [Lord Glitters](https://www.martenjulian.com/lord-glitters/) - Hi there! This unusually sustained spell of dry weather is proving frustrating for both trainers and those of us who prefer to see horses racing in more traditional conditions for the time of year. Nobody wants the sight of horses struggling to the point of exhaustion in hock-deep ground, but it is an important part - [A GHOST OF A CHANCE? GET ON JUST IN CASE](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-ghost-of-a-chance-get-on-just-in-case/) - I have few reasons to go to London these days, which is a source of some regret, though the fact is that several of my old haunts have closed and those that are in still in business are run by people I don't recognise. This is true of The Running Footman off Berkeley Square and - [Newcomer Talent On View Today](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcomer-talent-on-view-today/) - Hi there! There does not appear to be much rain over the next seven days or so, exacerbating the current concerns about small fields. Watering is due to take place at Cheltenham for the three-day meeting starting on Friday, while the word ‘firm’ appears in the going description for Thursday’s meeting at Taunton, where there - [A Man to Watch](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-man-to-watch/) - Hi there! I was asked recently who did I think, from the current crop of trainers, could ‘do a job’. In the past a handful of names would have come to mind, but for a moment I struggled to think of anyone before finding myself saying Philip Kirby. I’m not sure what this was based - [How can Manchester United win the Manchester Derby?](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-can-manchester-united-win-the-manchester-derby/) - This weekend one of the biggest fixtures in the Premier League takes place. The Manchester Derby at Old Trafford. Games between these two have always been important to locals and fans of both clubs, but over the last 15 years or so, the fixture has become a global football event and one of the most - [Last week: 5-0 loss… This week: 3-0 win… What changed?...](https://www.martenjulian.com/last-week-5-0-loss-this-week-3-0-win-what-changed/) - The game against Liverpool at Old Trafford was one of the worst experiences I’ll ever have at a football game. Whilst it’s probably better for me long-term knowing it doesn’t get much worse than that, it was a really tough night at the Theatre of Dreams. It was also a tactical mess. The attackers didn’t - [125/1 'Surprise' at Redcar](https://www.martenjulian.com/125-1-surprise-at-redcar/) - Hi there! Sometimes weird things happen and I’m not sure how it was that Magnificence was returned at odds of 125/1 for the 7f Class 4 0-80 handicap at Redcar today. The Racing Post forecast is only a guide, but the daughter of Kingman was put in at 16/1 in the paper and was available - [Great quotes: The Two-Year-Old Guide](https://www.martenjulian.com/great-quotes-the-two-year-old-guide/) - We are thrilled to have published the second edition of our Two-Year-Old Guide. We launched our first edition in 2020 following client requests following the sad passing of Steve Taplin. We didn't think we had the resources but when racing stopped due to the pandemic we had time to invest in a new publication. Dan - [A Quiet One at Stratford ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-quiet-one-at-stratford/) - Hi there, People were getting quite excited by the performance of Luxembourg in last weekend’s Vertem Futurity Trophy Stakes at Doncaster but I’ll be surprised if there aren’t better prospects around next season. I don’t much care for his high head carriage, even allowing for that being a trait of a few of the progeny - [Why not to start a business...](https://www.martenjulian.com/why-not-to-start-a-business/) - Here is my very brief intro to this journal. A bank’s safeguarding department lost some paperwork. Apparently, this is my fault, so they locked down our account for a few weeks. To make things a bit more complicated, they also decided to cancel all our direct debits and standing orders. If it wasn’t bad enough - [Manchester United v Villarreal… A Champions League night at the Theatre of Dreams…](https://www.martenjulian.com/manchester-united-v-villarreal-a-champions-league-night-at-the-theatre-of-dreams/) - What an experience. The Champions League is my favourite competition. Nothing else can rival it. The mouth-watering fixtures, ridiculous score lines, the best players from around . d-to-head, along with the incredible atmospheres created by fans. Ever since becoming a Manchester United fan I’ve wanted to experience seeing my club live on the biggest stage - [Conrad, Donald and me](https://www.martenjulian.com/conrad-donald-and-me/) - September 6 was the day of the Carnaby seller at Brighton and also the day Donald Zec died, though I didn't know it at the time. Actually, I say the Carnaby seller but there was a mix-up and the race, under a different name, took place on August 23 so I had to settle for - [Charlie McNeill… The next big talent off the Manchester United production line?](https://www.martenjulian.com/charlie-mcneill-the-next-big-talent-off-the-manchester-united-production-line/) - I’m a massive believer in youth development in football. I also like to see the integration of youth players into the first-team set-up as soon as possible. I’m not going to lie and say I don’t enjoy a big transfer saga ending with my club, Manchester United, buying someone of quality like Varane, Sancho or - [Can We Forgive ... ?](https://www.martenjulian.com/can-we-forgive/) - Hi there, The racing community has generally been prepared to forgive one of its members for a misdemeanour provided they show a smidgeon of contrition. It is often said we are a ‘tightly-knit family’, comprising all types including those who sail close to the wind. In the case of Gordon Elliott his behaviour when photographed - [My thoughts on this summer's transfer window](https://www.martenjulian.com/my-thoughts-on-this-summers-transfer-window/) - This summer transfer window has been the most hectic and exciting I and many others have experienced. Top players across Europe have changed clubs and I can’t wait for this season to really get going. In this article, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the various transfers, the ones I think will have the biggest - [How Varane, Sancho and Ronaldo Change the way Manchester United play…](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-varane-sancho-and-ronaldo-change-the-way-manchester-united-play/) - How Varane, Sancho and Ronaldo Change the way Manchester United play… Raphael Varane. What a fantastic signing he’s already looking like. In his opening two games he’s been brilliant and a contender for Man of the Match. He’s quick, strong, good in the air and composed on the ball; a world-class centre-back. So whilst he - [How Manchester United can get the best out of Cristiano Ronaldo…](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-manchester-united-can-get-the-best-out-of-cristiano-ronaldo/) - Cristiano Ronaldo has completed his return to Manchester United. Football fans, pundits and coaches have been overwhelmed by this summer and this news in particular. But now the buzz is starting to wear off I can think straight I’ve decided to look at how the Red Devils can get the best out of their star - [Back in a jiffy? Put in the diary](https://www.martenjulian.com/back-in-a-jiffy-put-in-the-diary/) - I'm enjoying my racing without making it pay. All right, there's nothing new in that but there have been a few mistakes lately, most notably with Red Alert, whose creditable second at Goodwood promised swift compensation at Bath, where I managed to oppose him. A nicely-judged bet on Jack Ryan in a Brighton seller ('my' - [What does Cristiano Ronaldo bring to Manchester United?](https://www.martenjulian.com/what-does-cristiano-ronaldo-bring-to-manchester-united/) - Wow. That’s the word that comes into my head when I think about this transfer. As a Seventeen-year-old Manchester United fan I never got to experience Cristiano Ronaldo terrorising defences in England and beyond whilst wearing the red of Manchester United. Instead, I have grown up watching him play for Real Madrid and Juventus whilst - [What can Raphael Varane bring to Manchester United?](https://www.martenjulian.com/what-can-raphael-varane-bring-to-manchester-united/) - Written by Jack Dixon Serial winner Raphael Varane has officially joined Manchester United from Real Madrid. The French international’s arrival has understandably been well received by Manchester United fans, especially at such a reduced price, due to Varane having a year left on his contract. So what does Raphael Varane bring to Manchester United? Straight - [Slight change from Marten Julian's Autumn Guide](https://www.martenjulian.com/slight-change-from-marten-julians-autumn-guide/) - I hope you are enjoying this summer’s racing programme. Last season we had to work amidst such uncertainty that it wasn’t possible to do full justice to the quality of information I had for unraced two-year-olds. Nonetheless we managed to produce an abridged Autumn Update, which included my news and write-ups on just 16 unraced two-year-olds. - [Youth players in Manchester United’s Pre Season 21/22](https://www.martenjulian.com/youth-players-in-manchester-uniteds-pre-season-21-22/) - Please note this article is being proofread but you are welcome to read ahead: Joe Hugill: A throwback kind of player. Joe Hugill is an out and out centre-forward who has one thought “goals”. He likes to stay in and around the box and looks to find space between defenders where he can get service. - [More power to Tyrone and his magic carpet ride](https://www.martenjulian.com/more-power-to-tyrone-and-his-magic-carpet-ride/) - Modern technology has influenced many things, one of them being the traditional pub quiz. It must be very tempting to cheat when a mobile 'phone is only inches away, though shame and disgrace may follow. Of course, a mobile helps only with simple, one-word answers. You might just about get away with 'How many South - [Why? Three Lions Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/why-three-lions-euros-2020/) - Why? That’s the first thought that pops into my head when I think about England’s EURO 2020 Final defeat to Italy. But bizarrely this thought of why isn’t in relation to anything that happened on the football pitch. I’m not thinking Why didn’t they score there?, Why did he do that?, Why did we not - [England v Italy Review: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-italy-review-euros-2020/) - Well that was tense. A close game of football. Probably as close a game of football as is possible to have. England started with a real intensity and had the wingbacks, Kieran Trippier and Luke Shaw bombing on, getting the reward for this start when Luke Shaw volleyed in a Kieran Trippier cross to give - [How England can beat Italy... :Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-england-can-beat-italy-euros-2020/) - This will be a tough game and one that will be decided by fine margins. A mistake? A moment of genius? Or some luck. I’ve written my thoughts on this game and how I think it will pan out in a previous article titled England V Italy Preview, but to summarise, I think England will - [England V Italy Preview: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-italy-preview-euros-2020/) - England will face Italy this Sunday in the final of EURO 2020 at Wembley Stadium. Both teams have had brilliant EURO campaign and it’s a game that could go either way. Italy have shown football fans their improvement since missing out on the 2018 World Cup. They’re good on the eye going forwards, tidy in - [EUROS 2020 Team of the Group Stage](https://www.martenjulian.com/euros-2020-team-of-the-group-stage/) - A fantastic EUROs group stage with plenty of goals, own-goals, brilliant bits of offensive and defensive play. Here’s my team of the EUROs Group Stage… 4-3-3 Formation GK- Danny Ward (Wales) Brilliant performances throughout the group stage. Made vital saves when it mattered. Played a huge part in Wales progression. LB – Spinnazola (Italy) An - [Most underrated Premier League Starting XI](https://www.martenjulian.com/most-underrated-premier-league-starting-xi/) - Underrated players. It’s tough to decide whether a player is underrated, or whether they do get the credit they deserve. In this article, I’ll be picking a starting XI consisting of the players, who in my view, aren’t talked about enough or get the credit they deserve. This team is based mostly on last season - [Italy v Spain Review: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/italy-v-spain-review-euros-2020/) - What a brilliant game of football. Two teams matching each other stride for stride, playing good football, defending well and scoring goals of the highest quality. Italy were far from their best but still played some slick counterattacking football. Italy’s goal was curled in by impressive wide player Federico Chiesa at a time when Spain, - [England v Denmark Review: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-denmark-review-euros-2020/) - What a historic night for England. They’ve reached a final of a major tournament for the first time since 1966. Years of fine margins going against the England team, strange tactical decisions from managers and inconsistent results and performances. But throughout this tournament and last night, England have been clinical in the final third, defended - [How England should set-up against Denmark: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-england-should-set-up-against-denmark-euros-2020/) - England face Denmark in a EUROs Semi-Final this Wednesday. I’ve discussed my thoughts on the game in full in my earlier semi-finals Preview article, but I’ll summarise here before going into my thoughts on how England should set-up tactically against Denmark and the personnel I’d go for. I think it will be a close game - [Semi-finals Preview: Thoughts and predictions: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/semi-finals-preview-thoughts-and-predictions-euros-2020/) - England v Denmark A tough game to call. Both teams are currently in good form, playing good football and defending well. England have been consistent throughout the tournament, but in addition to that have begun to score more goals, scoring six in their last two games and importantly have an in-form Harry Kane. After a - [England v Ukraine Review: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-ukraine-review-euros-2020/) - England have advanced to the Semi-Finals of the EUROs after an impressive 4-0 win over Ukraine. For an England fan you can’t ask for much more. Positive attacking football, another clean-sheet, four goals scored and key players rested. Raheem Sterling fed passed to Harry Kane who opened scoring early on in a tense and relatively - [England v Ukraine Preview: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-ukraine-preview-euros2020/) - England’s victory over the Germans two nights ago has set-up a quarter-final clash against Ukraine. This Ukraine side, managed by the legendary Andriy Shevchenko, have no pressure on them whatsoever. They got out of the group stage with only three points, with those points coming against the worst ranked team in the competition, North Macedonia, - [Quarter-Final thoughts and Score Predictions: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/quarter-final-thoughts-and-score-predictions-euros-2020/) - Below are my thoughts on each of the quarter-final fixtures along with predicted winners and scores. I’d like to stress I don’t like predicting football scores, as it’s the unpredictability of the game is something I love. But I’ve just gone with a scoreline that’s in keeping with my thoughts on the respective fixtures. Switzerland - [England v Germany Review: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-germany-review-euros-2020/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. What a night. England are through to the quarter-finals of - [England’s Style under Southgate: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/englands-style-under-southgate-euros-2020/) - England’s Style under Southgate and how it’s changed for this tournament You can see going into this tournament what Gareth Southgate is trying to do with this England team. Pick a solid back-four, a defensively sound midfield base and flair players in the final-third. We’re yet to see the previously successful back-three system and instead - [My England team v Germany: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/my-england-team-v-germany-euros-2020/) - I’ve already written about how I think the England v Germany game will pan out, in my Round of 16 article. In short, I think it will be a close game, but I fancy England to do some serious damage to the Germans on the counter-attack and I predict a 2-0 win for the three - [Round of 16 predictions: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/round-of-16-predictions-euros-2020/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. An exciting group stage with plenty of twists and turns. - [Jadon Sancho: What can he bring to Manchester United?](https://www.martenjulian.com/jadon-sancho-what-can-he-bring-to-manchester-united/) - This is currently being formatted and edited: Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. The Jadon Sancho - [England v Czech Republic Preview: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-czech-republic-review/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. An interesting game. After a 0-0 draw against Scotland, England - [England v Czech Republic Review: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-czech-republic-review-2/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. Professional. That’s the first word that comes to mind when - [England v Scotland Review: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-scotland-review/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. Sometimes in football the anticipation and excitement felt towards a - [England 1-0 Croatia](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-1-0-croatie/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. Professional. That’s the word I’d use to describe that opening - [England v Scotland Preview: Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-v-scotland-preview-euros-2020/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. I always enjoy England playing Scotland. The rivalry between supporters - [My England Starting XI and approach for the opening game against Croatia](https://www.martenjulian.com/my-england-starting-xi-and-approach-for-the-opening-game-against-croatia/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. As is usually the case heading into a major tournament, - [The unlucky three Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-unlucky-three/) - The Unlucky Three Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. The three players unlucky not to be - [That will be a great man gone](https://www.martenjulian.com/that-will-be-a-great-man-gone/) - We have perhaps reached the stage where we wonder which of the old haunts are still open for business, so to speak. The internet makes it easy enough to find out but that seems too easy, too convenient somehow. Better, surely, to approach a watering hole of fond memory and sneak glances every few yards, - [Ben White makes the 26](https://www.martenjulian.com/ben-white-makes-the-26_euro2020/) - Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. This morning it was announced that Ben White would be - [Why England can challenge Euros 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/why-england-can-challenge-euros2020/) - My EUROS 2020(21) WINNER PREDICTION: ENGLAND Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. I have been thinking - [The Latest for Epsom](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-latest-for-epsom/) - Hi there! The big day is almost upon us, with less than 48 hours before the running of the 2021 Cazoo Derby. The latest news from clerk of the course Andrew Cooper is that the ground is likely to be good, with good to firm patches. There are showers expected from France overnight but the - [The Weekend](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-weekend/) - Hi there, There was some class action over the weekend, most notably in the Lockinge Stakes which went to the favourite Palace Pier. It is not often that you see Frankie Dettori looking round for dangers with three furlongs to go, but that was the case on Saturday before he unleashed the son of Kingman, - [Dark Horse at Newbury](https://www.martenjulian.com/dark-horse-at-newbury/) - Hi there! The main action today was at York, but my point of interest was directed at the 1m 2f maiden stakes at Newbury. Mojo Star, a son of Sea The Stars, was rumoured to be Richard Hannon’s best middle-distance three-year-old prospect and the feeling was that if he were to win then he could - [Muddy Waters](https://www.martenjulian.com/muddy-waters/) - Hi there! There have been mixed messages from the Derby trials this season and, if anything, the waters looked muddier following today’s Dante Stakes at York. The race was won in gutsy style by Hurricane Lane, who battled on strongly to beat Megallan by ¾ of a length. High Definition, who carries my long-term hopes - [Done The Old-Fashioned Way ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/done-the-old-fashioned-way/) - Hi there! One of the features of the last few months has been the number of gambles that have been landed, some of them supported from exceptionally long odds. We had another couple yesterday, both of them well-nigh impossible to have predicted beforehand. The first was on Call Me Freddie in the second division of - [Racing the poorer without 'Scotty'](https://www.martenjulian.com/racing-the-poorer-without-scotty/) - The pandemic has hurt people in many ways, some of them tragic. I had a brush with the wretched thing last October but shrugged it off after a period of self-isolation. I ache here and there when out walking but at 72 I'm hardly surprised and it's not bound to be anything to do with - [Looking Ahead From Newmarket ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/looking-ahead-from-newmarket/) - I’m not sure what to make of either of this weekend’s Classics. It’s in the immediate aftermath of the 2000 Guineas that I look for a Derby colt but I’m not sure I saw an obvious one in Saturday’s field. Poetic Flare is bred along miling lines and Jim Bolger said afterwards that his programme - [Echoes from a wondrous place](https://www.martenjulian.com/echoes-from-a-wondrous-place/) - Sixteen Tons, a song made famous by Tennessee Ernie Ford, may have had some resonance with punters, especially the line about being ‘another day older and deeper in debt’. Happily, only the first part applies around here because I'm keeping fairly quiet until Malcolm Saunders unleashes his band of modest sprinters at Bath and Chepstow. - [MOUNTAINS, MOLEHILLS AND THE IMPLACABLE ADAMS](https://www.martenjulian.com/mountains-molehills-and-the-implacable-adams/) - I’ve always been fond of abbots and abbesses, but I missed Abbotsbury Abbot when he won at 50/1 at Newton Abbot a lifetime ago. I thought it would ease the pain if I named this humble dwelling Abbotsbury House and it’s worked to a degree, though the sign is worn and faded now, like the - [Get your racing questions answered by Marten](https://www.martenjulian.com/get-your-racing-questions-answered-by-marten/) - We are pleased to launch Ask MJ our new question and answer service. Marten has offered a personal service to a number of clients for many years now based on the ethos of his telephone line which was started in the early 80s. His personal service was rebranded in 1997 (from memory) to The Personal - [EURO 2020 (2021)](https://www.martenjulian.com/euro2020-2021/) - EURO 2020 (2021) by Jack Dixon Please note: The football articles that feature on this site are being written by Jack Dixon as part of his work experience. He is a teenager and looking for work experience within the football industry. He is currently studying for his media and art A-levels. This year’s EUROs - [Just a guy trying to get along](https://www.martenjulian.com/just-a-guy-trying-to-get-along/) - Well, that won’t happen again in my lifetime. The Jackpot pays £16,610 and all six winners are eminently findable. Several people thought so and were happy with their share of a massive carry-forward. A good friend in our syndicate finds five of them but I didn’t help very much with the race that downed us. - [Our Cheltenham Plans ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/our-cheltenham-plans/) - With less than six weeks to go before the start of Cheltenham we decided on the allocation of the Bulletin Book essays a few days ago. Many years back I wrote most of the 30,000-plus words myself, working for five days non-stop, sometimes through the night, to meet the Sunday evening deadline. It was then - [A Few Pointers ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-few-pointers/) - Hi there! One of the things I have always done is take a close look at the big-race entries when they are published. This is because it’s one of the few areas left where trainers have to declare their hand. Years ago entries for every race were made two to three weeks in advance. That - [Wightman's Perfect Timing](https://www.martenjulian.com/wightmans-perfect-timing/) - I don’t know at what age we can excuse ourselves up-to-date knowledge of modern terminology. In my case it’s fitting that ‘zeitgeist’ starts with a ‘z’ because I’ve reached the end of the line and can absorb no more. Mind you, LGBT was cropping up so often I felt I had to educate myself and - [A Look Ahead ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-look-ahead/) - Hi there! I want to start by wishing you all a healthy and, I hope, successful 2021. Things are evidently going to get tougher before they get better, but racing offers a welcome distraction to the problems facing the nation as a whole and we just have to hope that it will be allowed to - [The Way Ahead ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-way-ahead/) - I am sure that I’m not alone in wishing good riddance to 2020. It must be said that the Covid has generally brought out the best in people, with a generosity of spirit shown at many levels. Yet when taking account of those who have lost their lives, or the lives of their loved ones, - [Rise and rise of the all weather](https://www.martenjulian.com/rise-and-rise-of-the-all-weather/) - I seldom dwell on isolated successes - too many setbacks for that - but I did find the last winner of the turf season, the 16/1 shot Zip at Doncaster, after the sort of intense analysis that justifies falling in love with the game in the first place. Let's not over-egg it. Zip is a - [Hannibal Mejbri](https://www.martenjulian.com/hannibal-mejbri/) - Hannibal Mejbri signed for Manchester United towards the end of the 2019 summer transfer window from A.S Monaco for a fee thought to be around 5m euros rising to around 10m euros. The seventeen-year-old has featured for Man United in both the U18 Premier League, Premier League 2 (the U23s), and FA Youth Cup. Hannibal - [Man Utd V Spurs Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/man-utd-v-spurs-preview/) - This Sunday, Manchester United face Spurs in an empty Old Trafford. The teams last faced each other in each team’s first game after lockdown on the 19th of June, with the game ending 1-1 after Steven Bergwijn’s first half strike was cancelled out by a late Bruno Fernandes penalty. The teams both look great going - [Tinkering with outright certainties - or are they?](https://www.martenjulian.com/tinkering-with-outright-certainties-or-are-they/) - The other day I was trying to remember why Glastonbury reminded me of Coppermill Lad. I must have found a connection between the pair and thought about including it in a column, though how there can be any sort of link between a music festival where the visitors and I have so little in common - [This Is Getting Personal ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/this-is-getting-personal/) - I have seen some clever touches landed in my time in racing, but in the majority of cases I have been able to account for them logically. For example take the case of a relatively well-rated horse, who was then run down the field for a year, only to collect when wanted from a much - [Top Class Prospect at Leicester](https://www.martenjulian.com/top-class-prospect-at-leicester/) - Hi there! Sir Michael Stoute has introduced a few of his classier types at Leicester over the years – Dante Stakes runner-up Highest Ground made a successful debut there last September – and the early money for newcomer Star Seeking proved well informed when she hacked up in today’s Fillies’ Novice Stakes, beating Famille Rose - [Wightman does the great man proud](https://www.martenjulian.com/wightman-does-the-great-man-proud/) - Of course, I spend more time than most people on the second division of Class 5 apprentice handicaps at Salisbury. Like my father before me, I like to spot up- -and-coming riders with a handy allowance making a fair mark look positively attractive. And Salisbury is very much my sort of track. Salisbury, where Herbert - [York Prospects](https://www.martenjulian.com/york-prospects/) - Hi there! The all-important subject of the weather comes up this week, with random thunderstorms and heavy rain forecast for various parts of the country, with York a possible target on Wednesday. I see that the ground there is currently given as good to firm, good in places, but with no rain, sunny days and - [An old-fashioned touch ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/an-old-fashioned-touch/) - Hi there, As a general rule you don’t see market moves of any great intensity these days but there was a right old touch landed at Catterick last week, when Cormier was backed in the minutes before the off from an opening show of 22/1 to 100/30 favourite. The bets were duly landed as the - [Going racing in October? A small wager, perhaps?](https://www.martenjulian.com/going-racing-in-october-a-small-wager-perhaps/) - It's been a miserable year for just about everyone and we can't let minor personal setbacks outweigh the desperately sad losses suffered by many. I adjusted to televised racing behind closed doors quite quickly, though it would have been a major fillip to see Glorious Goodwood going ahead with a crowd of 5,000 on Stewards' - [Another surpise? No, not really](https://www.martenjulian.com/another-surpise-no-not-really/) - Well, here I was, thinking about a Chepstow piece and how well David Probert rides the course (see Cool Strutter) or Pastfact overcoming a marked tendency to throw his head around in the stalls and a slow start before getting up close home. But not many people pay attention to my sort of races, so - [Derby & Oaks](https://www.martenjulian.com/derby-oaks/) - Hi there, As you will be fully aware the 2020 Investec Derby and Oaks take place at Epsom on Saturday 4th July behind closed doors. The afternoon programme consists of the Woodcote Stakes (1.50), the Listed Surrey Stakes (2.25), the 1m 2f Investec Handicap Stakes (3.00), the Investec Oaks (3.40), the Group 3 Princess Elizabeth - [In praise of Eric Alston](https://www.martenjulian.com/in-praise-of-eric-alston/) - Quietly and with the minimum of fuss, racing has returned behind closed doors. We've already become used to jockeys in masks and the television channels, both terrestrial and otherwise, have set up interviews where required. Against the odds, and in sharp contrast to what some of us expected, Royal Ascot can go ahead and prove - [Who should be England’s No.1 at the EURO 2020?](https://www.martenjulian.com/who-should-be-englands-no-1-at-the-euro-2020/) - Euro 2020 is approaching and England fans will be hoping the three lions can end the trophy drought dating back to the World Cup success on home soil in 1966. The amount of young English talent coming through is incredible with the likes of Jadon Sancho, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, James Maddison and Dean Henderson - [Teden Mengi](https://www.martenjulian.com/teden-mengi/) - The Manchester United academy has consistently produced top players. From the class of ’92 to high-profile break-out stars like Marcus Rashford and more recently Mason Greenwood and Brandon Williams. I believe the current U23s and U18s teams are full of future stars. Today I’ll be focusing on promising centre-back Tenden Mengi. Mengi is an 18 - [Royal Ascot still a betting bonanza](https://www.martenjulian.com/royal-ascot-still-a-betting-bonanza/) - Of course, we are all missing racing (and various other sports) but some people are more concerned than others. Putting my cards on the table and admitting to a strong personal bias, I want racing to be up and running, in front of packed stands, in time for Glorious Goodwood and I want Southampton to - [A new perspective perhaps?](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-new-perspective-perhaps/) - I am writing this on the weekend that I am usually at Newmarket for the Guineas meeting. The day when it was conceivable that three unbeaten colts – Pinatubo, Earthlight and Siskin, winners of 14 races between them, six at Group 1 level – could have been lining up for what had every chance of - [Worth waiting for Ginger](https://www.martenjulian.com/worth-waiting-for-ginger/) - Trying to remain optimistic, I'd been hoping for a resumption of racing, with people actually at the track, that is, just before the three-day Goodwood meeting at the end of May. I see now this is virtually out of the question and quite a lot of people would settle for the Glorious meeting two months - [April Wordsearch](https://www.martenjulian.com/marten-julian-horse-racing-april-wordsearch/) - We thought it would be nice to start producing a word search. If you prefer a PDF version please refer to our April Newsletter to download it. If you don't currently receive our newsletter please sign up here Here are the words to find: Arkle Backstraight Black Apalachi Cartmel Cheltenhan Court Dreaming Dark Horses Fakenham - [A splendid paper under maximum pressure](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-splendid-paper-under-maximum-pressure/) - Under normal circumstances, lists of horses to follow for the 2020 Flat season would be well underway by now. Sadly, there is no telling where or when racing will start up again, or whether it will be staged behind closed doors. I must say I can't quite imagine Royal Ascot going ahead like that - - [Anglesey revisited - we hope](https://www.martenjulian.com/anglesey-revisited-we-hope/) - In certain situations, gamblers tend to view things according to the odds. Or, more correctly, they settle for an outcome which would be acceptable if hardly attractive. The roulette player, starting with a hundred pounds and working it up to, let's say, eight hundred before rashly continuing, will reach a point where, having seen everything - [Time to recharge the batteries](https://www.martenjulian.com/time-to-recharge-the-batteries/) - There we are then, all over for another year and quite possibly all over until the greenfinch puts in an appearance on the bird table outside and the talk is all about Royal Ascot, Wimbledon and the Tour de France. Some of my friends think even this is optimistic and they may be right. For - [Day One of Cheltenham](https://www.martenjulian.com/day-one-of-cheltenham/) - Tuesday 10 March 2020 Shishkin must be something special to have overcome the problems he encountered before getting up close home to beat the well-fancied Abracadabras in today’s Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. He was short of room at the top of the hill so Nico de Boinville switched him to the outside when he was fortunate - [Pacemaker found wanting in Cheltenham marathon](https://www.martenjulian.com/pacemaker-found-wanting-in-cheltenham-marathon/) - Given my time again - a singularly pointless opening conversational gambit - I might have delayed a hospital trip following a palpable loss of energy on the way to the Southampton v Aston Villa match. Once sitting down I was fine, of course, we won tidily enough and there was no repetition on the way - [Somewhere beyond the sea - compensation for Archie](https://www.martenjulian.com/somewhere-beyond-the-sea-compensation-for-archie/) - I think it fair to say that Archie has never quite recovered from Benie Des Dieux's last-flight fall at Cheltenham just under a year ago. Passing thoughts can reap a bitter harvest. He yields to no-one in his admiration for Ruby Walsh but suggested more than once that the great man was capable of indecision - [Aston Villa V Manchester City](https://www.martenjulian.com/work-experience-article-aston-villa-v-manchester-city/) - Aston Villa V Manchester City Aston Villa face Manchester City this Sunday with both teams in interesting positions. Manchester City have began to find a bit of form, having won four games on the bounce, but at the same time it’s difficult to truly be confident they’ll beat this Villa side. With Aston Villa sitting - [Ethan Laird](https://www.martenjulian.com/work-experience-article-ethan-laird/) - Ethan Laird, age 18, is one of the many exciting youth players coming through the Manchester United youth system. Laird preferably operates at Right Back and with his pace and composure he’s a great asset going forward. Always involved in the final third with his winger-like skill allowing him to ease past defenders and get - [Cheltenham Is Unique ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-is-unique/) - Hi there! Cheltenham remains a law unto itself. Come rain or shine, there have been Festivals when some results simply defy all logic. It’s certainly reasonable for pundits, myself included, to refer back to the evidence of the form book, but the demands of that hill, often at the conclusion of a race that has - [Life is sweet at the King's Head in Bledington](https://www.martenjulian.com/life-is-sweet-at-the-kings-head-in-bledington/) - Well, an interesting few days with a couple of low-grade winners but a blank day at Cheltenham. I think the number of years I spent working at the festival - interviews for the crowd (the present chap does an excellent job), reporting for the Irish Field, ghosting Martin Pipe, writing my own column for the - [Go tell it on the mountain - just like Pat](https://www.martenjulian.com/go-tell-it-on-the-mountain-just-like-pat/) - GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN - JUST LIKE PAT I admit to finding this NH season a little disappointing so far. This is mostly because of the wet weather, abandonments and far too many races being run on heavy ground. Although that is inevitable after all the rain, there is 'heavy' and 'heavy', so - [January 2020 Newsletter Highlights](https://www.martenjulian.com/january-2020-newsletter-highlights/) - Please find below some of the highlights from our latest newsletter. To receive it in full each month please register here I need to start by wishing you all a very happy, peaceful and successful 2020! The last 12 months have had their moments, both highs and lows, but overall it was a successful year - [URTHEONETHATIWANT.......OH YES INDEED](https://www.martenjulian.com/urtheonethatiwant-oh-yes-indeed/) - It can only go down as a quiet Christmas at this end, though 2019 ended with a minor celebration as Urtheonethatiwant defied a 7lb increase at Warwick, having won a long-distance handicap hurdle at Ludlow the time before. As someone who follows apprentices and conditional jockeys with considerable interest, I couldn't resist Urtheonethatiwant because it - [Yuletide Expectations ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/yuletide-expectations/) - Hi there! With heavy ground now general around the country it’s far from certain we will get a clear run of meetings over the next 10 days. There is an 8.00am inspection at Ascot tomorrow (Saturday) while the conditions at Haydock will be very demanding. Looking ahead to Boxing Day there is heavy rain forecast - [Garnering a little praise](https://www.martenjulian.com/garnering-a-little-praise/) - I made the effort to watch The Long Summer of George Adams a couple of days ago. The dvd is not readily available now and I wanted to watch James Garner once more before sending my copy to a fellow admirer for Christmas. I'd watch Garner in anything, going all the way back to Maverick - [Keeping on at one pace](https://www.martenjulian.com/keeping-on-at-one-pace/) - There is no doubt that things have been a little too hectic of late. More London trips than usual, meetings with friends who have their share of problems, a ray of hope on the Southampton FC front, an HWPA lunch where the main award went, quite rightly, to Lee Mottershead and a step into the - [The Postscript: A reminder](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-postscript-a-reminder/) - I thought a little reminder about our fantastic Postscript Service was about due. As regular blog readers will know I am all about trying new ideas and offering a better service to our clients and utilising technology as much as possible. Back in 2016 Marten, Steve and I had a meeting about the service we - [Ascot Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/ascot-reflections/) - Hi there, Angels Breath beat his three rivals at Ascot this afternoon in one of the best novices chases of the season, jumping well to defeat First Flow by eight lengths. The winner’s stable companion Birchdale could never really go the pace, with The Mighty Don also outpaced in fourth. The winner may be the - [Cheltenham Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-reflections-3/) - Hi there! They did well to get racing on at Cheltenham over the weekend given the waterlogged state of the track on Friday. A few years ago the meeting would have been lost, but the drainage on racecourses has improved considerably since the old days and the clerks know so much more about land husbandry. - [More questions that answers? Yes, probably](https://www.martenjulian.com/more-questions-that-answers-yes-probably/) - It was a pity rain ruled out the final Doncaster meeting of the season and with it the November Handicap. It will always be the Manchester November Handicap to me, ever since Operatic Society dislodged Ken Gethin at the start, galloped a full circuit in the fog and then repeated the dose for real, beating - [Champ - Still Looking Good!](https://www.martenjulian.com/champ-still-looking-good/) - Hi there! Champ won what I think we can all agree was the best beginners’ chase of the season so far when beating the talented Dashel Drasher by three and a half lengths at Newbury this afternoon. His jumping was assured in the main – he brushed through the top of a couple – but - [Nine again for man in the rain](https://www.martenjulian.com/nine-again-for-man-in-the-rain/) - I suppose there has to come a time, maybe at 70 or possibly 71, when you wonder what you're doing. After all, the game was on television, the rain fell steadily, then furiously as the nine goals went in and people left the ground, many of them by half-time. It can seem a long way - [If I were Sheikh Mohammed ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/if-i-were-sheikh-mohammed/) - Hi there If I were Sheikh Mohammed there would have been a lot of things I would have done differently. One thing would have been to delegate more and not interfere. Without trust you cannot delegate wholly and in my view, because the Sheikh was taken advantage of in his early days in the sales - [Beer with the boys - Memories with Mathieu](https://www.martenjulian.com/beer-with-the-boys-memories-with-mathieu/) - My good friend George Materna – successful businessman, great Goodwood supporter and joint-owner of Open Wide, who finished runner-up in the Stewards' Cup this year - was recently in hospital to have a new hip fitted. I have been through this and can endorse the opinion of many that it takes three months to get - [A Few Thoughts ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-few-thoughts/) - Hi there I was very taken with the attitude Thyme Hill displayed in his three runs last season, as much in defeat as in victory, and it was that tenacity that stood him in good stead on his hurdling debut in today’s Persian War Novices’ Hurdle at Chepstow. I had been keen to put him - [It's Arc Weekend](https://www.martenjulian.com/its-arc-weekend/) - Hi there It’s Arc weekend and plenty has been written about Enable, with the Racing Post’s well-respected judge Paul Kealy putting forward some sound reasons why the favourite “won’t be beaten.” If that were the case, with his assertion that if the race were not the Arc then Enable would be nearer 1/3 than 8/11, - [Who pays the ferryman? That would be me, many years ago](https://www.martenjulian.com/who-pays-the-ferryman-that-would-be-me-many-years-ago/) - ‘Oh the Woolston Ferry, it doesn’t travel very fast. It was never built for comfort, it was built to last’. Which it did, for 141 years, and Lowry painted it, but then they built the Itchen Bridge and that was that. Gutta Percha and the Balladeers marked its passing with a song they hoped would - [Losing sequences no bar to ultimate satisfaction](https://www.martenjulian.com/losing-sequences-no-bar-to-ultimate-satisfaction/) - I suppose we've all been in the game too long and love it too much to take all that much satisfaction from leaving certain races alone. On the other hand, it's quite a while since I attempted to unravel the Ayr Gold, Silver and whatever Cups. With the winners starting at 20/1, 12/1 and 28/1 - [Time to apply logic to the daily task](https://www.martenjulian.com/time-to-apply-logic-to-the-daily-task/) - Another Carnaby seller has come and gone and it takes a while to get back into any sort of groove. This is a strange thing to admit, I suppose, because the race itself is hardly likely to linger in anyone's memory, but it was the 23rd in the sequence and you can have some 100/30 - [Out Of Kilter ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/out-of-kilter/) - Hi there! I have said before that to succeed at racing, be it as a trainer, jockey or punter, you need to be focused to an almost obsessional degree. To use contemporary jargon there has to be almost an OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) element to your work. Stories are legion of great sportsmen’s obsessive behaviour - [Piggott and Sturdy - quiet communicators](https://www.martenjulian.com/piggott-sturdy-quiet-communicators/) - I suppose this will be the last racing week I attend for a while. When work comes to an end, as it surely must at 70, the thought occurs that there will need to be quite a lot of winners to make up the shortfall. Whilst I frequently inhabit a fantasy world, I've never actually - [With a song in my heart](https://www.martenjulian.com/with-a-song-in-my-heart/) - I sit in the middle of a good run. At least, I hope it's the middle and not the end, Koeman having finished a fair fourth in the Shergar Cup - a near miss but no cigar, not that I'd have the first idea what to do with one of those. I can tell you - [Dobbs the unsung hero](https://www.martenjulian.com/dobbs-the-unsung-hero/) - Having named the first two in the Bunbury Cup (but the wrong way round) and the first and third in the Moet & Chandon International at Ascot (without showing a profit), I may be going through a difficult phase at this late stage in life. There comes a point where we are unlikely to grow - [What An Epic](https://www.martenjulian.com/what-an-epic/) - Hi there Yesterday’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes turned into the epic battle everyone was hoping for. The ‘right’ horses filled the frame, with the admirably gutsy Salouen finishing a highly creditable fourth. However it was the tussle between Enable and Crystal Ocean that stole the show, with the winner excelling herself - [The funny man who waved his arms about](https://www.martenjulian.com/john-mccririck/) - The sad passing of John McCririck will not have surprised anyone who saw him at the races recently. The weight had dropped off him, he sat quietly in the press room and one had the feeling that he was merely forcing himself to put in an appearance. He was a game old stick, still capable - [Koeman worth another punt](https://www.martenjulian.com/koeman-worth-another-punt/) - I tried hard to help David Ashforth with his Grab A Grand quest in the Racing Post. Indeed, I spent two or three hours on Tuesday's Brighton Placepot and went very close, though one can over-analyse these things. True, only the second leg went down as Kachumba, 4/1, beat only two home. That was a - [PASSING OF A GENTLE MAN](https://www.martenjulian.com/passing-of-a-gentle-man/) - I shall always remember Royal Ascot week 2019. A seventh grandchild arrived on Wednesday morning and 24 hours later I attended the funeral of Terry Geoghan, who managed a betting office in Bath for 30 years and was very popular on both sides of the counter. He was 67 and lived alone. I suppose, if - [Royal Ascot Looms](https://www.martenjulian.com/royal-ascot-looms/) - Hi there! Well what a contrast to last year, when we were enjoying record-breaking temperatures soaring into the high 30s! By contrast I am writing this soon after news that Uttoxeter and Haydock have been abandoned, with standing water at both tracks having endured more than an average month’s rainfall in 48 hours. The big - [Betty Grable still a star to some of us](https://www.martenjulian.com/betty-grable-still-a-star-to-some-of-us/) - I never really thought of 70 as a special landmark and maybe everything that's happened is mere coincidence, though you'd have to say a pacemaker followed by the loss of work at both the Irish Field and the Racing Post is quite a win treble. I'll find something else to do, if the form book - [Singing the blues? Never felt more like it](https://www.martenjulian.com/singing-the-blues-never-felt-more-like-it/) - An excellent run was bound to come to an end and it did so down by the furlong pole at Salisbury on Tuesday. Having made the point in this space ten days ago that horses identified as poor value invariably lose, I probably shouldn't have backed Singing The Blues in the mile and a half - [Ways of escape](https://www.martenjulian.com/ways-of-escape/) - York was enjoyable, even if the punting left something to be desired. One or two long-held theories were put to the test and came up short, so there will have to be intense concentration over the coming weeks. Whilst I have no doubt that my ideal retirement place would be close to the Itchen Valley - [The Epsom Classic Scene](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-epsom-classic-scene/) - Hi there! As I write this, a few days before the Dante Stakes, the Derby market is dominated by colts trained by Aidan O’Brien. No fewer than four of the top eight horses quoted are trained at Ballydoyle, with Paddy Power now betting just 1/3 that O’Brien will send out his seventh Derby winner on - [Time for a Toblerone?](https://www.martenjulian.com/time-for-a-toblerone/) - There was a moment at Punchestown when it looked as if a major betting treble had just escaped us. I retired from the Irish Field after 32 years as British correspondent, Ruby Walsh called it a day and then we heard there was momentous news from Downing Street. This could only be Theresa May finally - [Punchestown Festival 2019](https://www.martenjulian.com/punchestown-festival-2019/) - It’s hard to think of a more progressive jumps racing festival than that of the Punchestown Festival, a meeting that was on its knees no more than 16 years ago but is now heralded as a true season highlight on both sides of the Irish Sea. The turnaround was initiated by legendary Kerryman Dick O’Sullivan, - [Maid In India, Old Geezer in Hampstead](https://www.martenjulian.com/maid-in-india-old-geezer-in-hampstead/) - And so the Baths and Brightons are back with us again. Only Punchestown left (together with the fervent hope that a miracle Placepot pays for everything, as it did in 'volcanic ash' year, 2010) before the familiar round of tricky sprint handicaps, Shepherd Neame Spitfire in the Regency Tavern, no bitter at all in the - [Miracle on 34th Street - or the A34](https://www.martenjulian.com/miracle-on-34th-street-or-the-a34/) - I have seen the sun come up over Sutton Scotney services. It was a long time ago and I don't remember the exact circumstances but it was a beautiful morning and I remember shaving in the car. I dare say it had been an expensive night but, all these years on, nights like that seem - [Paul Day's Preview of The Masters](https://www.martenjulian.com/paul-days-preview-of-the-masters/) - Hi there! Thursday sees the start of the The Masters. It is the only major that is played at the same venue every year, the iconic Augusta National Course. The grounds are always in pristine condition, no expense is spared to make this venue one of the most beautiful sporting in the world. The grass - [Time for a single payment at 50/1?](https://www.martenjulian.com/time-for-a-single-payment-at-50-1/) - I approach the Randox Health Grand National meeting in good heart and good form. Southampton's victory at Brighton probably means the continuation of Premier League football at St Mary's, while Right Action's victory at Doncaster on Sunday bolstered still further my already unshakeable faith in Richard Fahey. Right Action won the same seven-furlong handicap, with - [How to guide for the Weekend Card](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-to-guide-for-the-weekend-card/) - A simple to follow guide on how our Weekend Card works and how to download the editions you want! - [How to download Online Previews](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-to-download-online-previews/) - If you would like to save a PDF on how to download an Online Preview Click Here Handy hint! You can click on any of the pictures to enlarge them When will I get access to an Online Preview? You will receive access as soon as it is available. If you order after we have - [Oakley The Lad To Follow](https://www.martenjulian.com/oakley-the-lad-to-follow/) - It becomes increasingly difficult to revisit old haunts. Bringing up a granddaughter for the past four years - Matilda leaves with our son James (her father) for Taiwan, where he has a teaching post, in July - means additional driving duties, after-school activities, judo and all the rest of it. Entirely 'free' days are few - [Something Strange At Cheltenham ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/something-strange-at-cheltenham/) - Hi there! There is always something of a lull after the excitement and drama of Cheltenham and this year is no exception, with a pretty dire week of racing and nothing to look forward to until Aintree, which starts a fortnight on Thursday. I will have more to say about Cheltenham in my Postscript, which - [A Flaneur's Festival](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-flaneurs-festival/) - By Ian Carnaby: And so the great meeting is nearly upon us. With some relief I attend on the first two days as an observer and occasional player, whereas in - [Solihull - much closer than we think](https://www.martenjulian.com/solihull-much-closer-than-we-think/) - Until Manchester United's late winner on Saturday it looked like being a very good week. Of course, you have to keep 60,000 people happy and, as I set off for a walk at 2-2, unable to bear the tension and not wishing to witness the inevitable on the illicit feed everyone seems to access these - [Cheltenham 2019 – Important News Update!](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-2019-important-news-update/) - Hi there! Such has been the quality and quantity of informed content – already over 32,000 words - that I have received for this year’s Cheltenham Festival I have decided to publish my exclusive insights for the ten main handicaps of the week as a separate publication. This will be entitled ‘The Cheltenham Festival Handicaps’. - [FAQS](https://www.martenjulian.com/faqs/) - 1. What’s the difference in the Cheltenham Book & Cheltenham Package The book is literally the book and no other publications. Marten will send you a brief text message each day of Cheltenham. The Package is a huge amount of information. You get daily emails before the meeting about breaking news and updates. You receive both a - [Hazel Hill looks fair value](https://www.martenjulian.com/hazel-hill-looks-fair-value/) - For a few years I concentrated on one race at the Cheltenham festival - the Stayers' or World Hurdle, as it was called for a while. I decided to take short - [Congratulations to Marten: Cheltenham Anniversary](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-festival-book/) - I would like to say congratulations to Marten I bet when Marten started his business nearly 50 years ago and decided in 1979 to publish his first Cheltenham Bulletin Book he didn't think he would still be self-publishing it 40 years later! I have not yet met anyone else with such a strong work ethic - [Near misses and doughnuts at Plumpton](https://www.martenjulian.com/near-misses-and-doughnuts-at-plumpton/) - By Ian Carnaby: I was wandering down Burgess Road in Southampton the other day, thinking about the long, hard winter of 1962-63. Racing was off for several - [Johnston well adrift when it comes to betting](https://www.martenjulian.com/johnston-well-adrift-when-it-comes-to-betting/) - I endured a long delay on the rattler on Thursday. Someone had cut through an overhead cable in the Ealing area, so the train manager, the chap we used to call a guard, told us. As I was only going up to town to see three old friends from my wine trade days and time - [The BHA Ruling](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-bha-ruling/) - Hi there, Although the news that racing can resume on Wednesday was very welcome the BHA’s ruling that no entries will be accepted from horses that have not been vaccinated in the previous six months may extend the period of exclusion in certain cases for a while longer, as I believe that a horse cannot - [Not a bad innings, as they say](https://www.martenjulian.com/not-a-bad-innings-as-they-say/) - I am not an obsessive reader of obituaries, although every now and then they inevitably touch on events from my past. Like a lot of people, I glance at the bottom of the article to see how long the subject was around, if that's not too blunt. In my case, they haven't done too badly - [A Name To Note](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-name-to-note/) - Hi there! We are normally seeking out the mudlarks in the first week of February, especially in Ireland, but the ground for the second day of Leopardstown’s weekend festival was changed to good, with good to firm patches, on the chase course leading to no fewer than six withdrawals from the Unibet Irish Gold Cup. - [Cheltenham Trials Day](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-trials-day/) - Stu Williams looks back at 2019 Cheltenham Trials Day. - [Time to be getting along](https://www.martenjulian.com/time-to-be-getting-along/) - Whilst I do not have major bets over jumps - nor anywhere else compared with a former life - Pink Gin was the start of a good mini-run, backed up by Keeper Hill and, although the price was short, Elusive Belle at Wincanton on Thursday. Opinions will always vary on what constitutes value but Elusive - [When Will the Rain Return ... ?](https://www.martenjulian.com/when-will-the-rain-return/) - Hi there! I am struggling to come to terms with the word ‘firm’ appearing in going reports at a time when we are usually racing in hock-deep ground. In fairness to the clerks of the courses the reports from the trainers and jockeys have been very favourable with regard to the conditions. However there is - [Racing Welfare: Black Friday Raffle](https://www.martenjulian.com/racing-welfare-black-friday-raffle/) - We were thrilled to offer our first online raffle on Black Friday 2018. Please read more here - [Stuart's thoughts: Cheltenham Festival](https://www.martenjulian.com/stuarts-thoughts-cheltenham-festival/) - Traditionally there are already three warm favourites for the Cheltenham Festival’s three Grade 1 novice hurdles by this stage of the season. However - [Like Tears In the Rain …](https://www.martenjulian.com/like-tears-in-the-rain/) - There have been many special moments in my life. I have been very lucky, first to have been part of them and second, perhaps more importantly, to have been receptive to them. I am sure there have been people around me at the time who didn’t see, hear or experience the same as me. Racing - [In Need of a Pink Gin](https://www.martenjulian.com/in-need-of-a-pink-gin/) - By Ian Carnaby: I have experienced a few days which can only be described as ‘mixed’. By and large, Christmas went well and it was good to see the Canadian - [Keeping records - too late in the day](https://www.martenjulian.com/keeping-records-too-late-in-the-day/) - By Ian Carnaby: I trust you had a good Christmas and I wish you all the best in 2019. From a personal point of view I’d like to cut down on hospital visits if - [The King George VI Chase](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-king-george-vi-chase/) - By Stu Williams Stu is an occasional contributor to our Weekend Card most recently writing in our Festive Bumper Edition. Here he shares his latest blog. Inaugurated in 1937, the King George VI Steeple Chase undoubtedly holds a special place in the heart of all ardent National Hunt enthusiasts given its star-studded role of honour - [Global Citizen at his favourite place](https://www.martenjulian.com/global-citizen-at-his-favourite-place/) - Well, whatever else happens this Christmas, Southampton's 3-2 victory over Arsenal will live long in the memory. It was quite something, seeing my nine-year-old granddaughter standing up and waving cheerio to the visiting fans and I shall miss her if, or indeed when, my son returns to Hong Kong to teach and takes her with - [Welcoming Ronan Groome to the team](https://www.martenjulian.com/welcome-ronan-groome/) - I work for the Irish Field as a racing journalist. Ever since I went racing with my grandad at a young age I've been hooked. I studied Equine Business at college but missed a whole semester because I got an apprenticeship for well known racing journalist, tipster and analyst Donn McClean. I guess this was - [Rhapsody In Blue - A million miles from Gershwin](https://www.martenjulian.com/rhapsody-in-blue-a-million-miles-from-gershwin/) - I was pleased when Ramses de Theillee won at Chepstow because it made for a profitable weekend, though I thought the 2/1 starting price very skinny. The veteran Alfie Spinner’s poor run as a saver recommendation dented the pick-up slightly but we had to find out about him. I doubt that Ramses de Theillee will be - [Alfie Spinner no spent force at 13](https://www.martenjulian.com/alfie-spinner-no-spent-force-at-13/) - This has been a week of identifying short-priced favourites which still represented value if we acted soon enough. On Monday, the day of the Horserace Writers’ - [Things my mother taught me](https://www.martenjulian.com/things-my-mother-taught-me/) - Thank you to everyone for the good wishes during my stay in hospital. I now have a pacemaker, though the decision to go ahead was in the balance. Everything had improved during my time there, including the heart rate, though it was still only in the 50s so future peace of mind gained the day - [Black Friday Charity Raffle for Racing Welfare](https://www.martenjulian.com/black-friday-charity-raffle-for-racing-welfare/) - By Rebecca Julian-Dixon: This year we decided to do things differently and raise money for a worthwhile charity. We are particularly interested in their - [First Assignment can step up](https://www.martenjulian.com/first-assignment-can-step-up/) - This will be a shorter message than most because I’m writing it in the Bristol Royal Infirmary as I await a pacemaker. I’d been staying on at one pace for some time, quite unable to pick up the leaders - much the same as in all other areas of life, really - and tests soon - [Vado Forte not a hopeless case](https://www.martenjulian.com/vado-forte-not-a-hopeless-case/) - A hugely successful Friday at Cheltenham saw a record crowd of over 22,000 in attendance. NH racing has never known times like these and Cheltenham is at the forefront of its impressive growth. Sponsors are queueing up to be involved and it is only fair to mention that quality jumps cards are now so popular - [More Observations From Carlisle](https://www.martenjulian.com/more-observations-from-carlisle/) - Hi there! The jump meetings at Carlisle are always in a different class to their Flat programme and the early meetings this autumn have, in my view, taken a further step up in grade. I brought a handful of horses to your notice from the first meeting of the season and a few others caught - [King's Odyssey best first time up](https://www.martenjulian.com/kings-odyssey-best-first-time-up/) - By Ian Carnaby: It’s been a quiet week on the punting and other fronts but this Saturday will be busier, with some good racing followed by the annual school - [Black Corton For The Top Man](https://www.martenjulian.com/black-corton-for-the-top-man/) - Black Corton For The Top Man - [A future star appears at Newcastle](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-future-star-appears-at-newcastle/) - Hi there! We know from past evidence, notably in the case of Enable, that we should not underestimate Newcastle two-year-old maiden race form and I expect by next spring we may be looking back at the race this evening won by Roger Charlton’s Headman. Those who were quick off the mark could have got an - [Musings From Carlisle](https://www.martenjulian.com/9187-2/) - Hi there The fields for the jumps cards have generally held up quite well despite the absence of much needed rain. There have been exceptions in the west of the country – Wincanton on Sunday and Exeter before that – but Aintree and Cheltenham put on good ground with competitive fields as a result. I - [Capton overdue now](https://www.martenjulian.com/capton-overdue-now/) - By Ian Carnaby: There comes a time to switch over to the jumps and I’m bound to say the moment is imminent. Favourites won the first four races at Cheltenham on Friday while Bernardo O’Reilly was one of several surprises on the - [Our eco credentials](https://www.martenjulian.com/our-eco-credentials/) - This page is being updated as I research the products we use. Weekend Card The publication we produce in-house that uses the most paper is our Weekend Card. We offer it in an e-format which of course has great eco credentials. For our postal version, the internal paper is printed on Xerox Colotech Paper Eco Credentials - [AW form line hints at Via Via](https://www.martenjulian.com/aw-form-line-hints-at-via-via/) - Overall, one should not complain. Low Sun won the Cesarewitch at 10/1 and Major Jumbo at 12s was an excellent winner on the line. However, there were a couple of disappointments as well, including Smokey Lane at Goodwood and Fire Jet at Nottingham. I’m not revisiting the whole business of horses running completely unfancied on - [Rain to help Smokey Lane](https://www.martenjulian.com/rain-to-help-smokey-lane/) - Projection made it a profitable weekend and did well to beat Dream Of Dreams in soft ground at Ascot. He is a funny horse and needed to be driven right out after travelling very easily for most of the way. It was his first win for three years and I’d started to wonder about his - [Research into equine vision to improve safety in jump racing](https://www.martenjulian.com/research_into_equine_vision/) - I didn’t plan to write a blog today but my schedule was interrupted by an email from the BHA in connection with some new scientific research. It grabbed my attention as in our office we’ve been talking a lot about horses and the way they learn to jump and then enhance their skill as part - [One more chance for Projection](https://www.martenjulian.com/one-more-chance-for-projection/) - I admit to a certain bias where Roger Charlton and Henry Candy are concerned and I smiled to myself on Friday morning when I saw Blue Surf and Ortiz both entered for the one-mile conditions race at Ascot. Both trainers turn to Ryan Moore when the former champion’s commitments permit and I imagine both wanted - [Forgive (but not quite forget) may be best](https://www.martenjulian.com/forgive-but-not-quite-forget-may-be-best/) - There comes a time to acknowledge when time is against us. Or against me, anyway. When Compton Hellyer, a very astute businessman, was building up Sporting Index, he asked me whether I was showing an interest in exchange betting. I think Compton knew full well that the spreads would burn brightly for a while, which - [Missed Opportunities](https://www.martenjulian.com/missed-opportunities/) - Someone once said, towards the end of their life, that their biggest regret was over the things they hadn’t done rather than those they had. Never has this seemed more apt than as I write. - [Oakley Brown and Conor McGovern - watch carefully](https://www.martenjulian.com/oakley-brown-conor-mcgovern-watch-carefully/) - Watching a couple of Henry Candy’s fillies run moderately this week I acknowledged that this has not been a great season for one of my favourite trainers. Also, with rain setting in at long last, stable star Limato is unlikely to get his ground in the time that remains. It’s a pity, because the last - [Telephone Lines](https://www.martenjulian.com/telephone-lines-update/) - I have previously written about telephone lines on here but this is an updated article. Many years ago Marten and I spoke about stopping our Premium Rate lines. We hate that clients are charged so much to hear a line. For many years I have tried to change the way we provide the service. I - [Lessons from a fascinating week](https://www.martenjulian.com/lessons-from-a-fascinating-week/) - Another Carnaby selling race has come and gone. I admit it’s like entering another world - Brighton, the town as well as the racecourse, is a bit like that anyway - and now it’s time to readjust. This was the 22nd year - [Goodbye to Ian's sports blog](https://www.martenjulian.com/goodbye-to-ians-sports-blog/) - A fond farewell to the Sports Blog that Ian Carnaby has been writing for many years on www.martenjulian.com I know he has a number of regular readers so we are sorry that it is no longer available but due to the increased amount of work involved in covering horse racing, it seemed a good time - [You're Hired so unlucky](https://www.martenjulian.com/youre-hired-so-unlucky/) - George was terribly unlucky with You’re Hired at Brighton on Wednesday. Amanda Perrett had got the horse back to his best and considered him fairly handicapped in a mile and a half affair where Luca Cumani’s runner was - [Swiss pride for Big Ray](https://www.martenjulian.com/swiss-pride-for-big-ray/) - It took me a little while to recover from Goodwood. Not that I over-indulge these days but there were several near misses and at least one major mistake on the betting front. - [Goodwood and Galway - Avoid At All Costs!](https://www.martenjulian.com/goodwood-and-galway-avoid-at-all-costs/) - Hi there! The reason I loathe Goodwood as a medium for betting was perfectly illustrated yesterday, as it has been on many occasions before, when Lord Glitters left the impression that with a clear run he would have gone close in the Sussex Stakes. I seldom gripe over the past in this game – after - [Dettori only human at Ascot after all](https://www.martenjulian.com/dettori-only-human-at-ascot-after-all/) - I was very pleased that Burnt Sugar won the Bunbury Cup at Newmarket last week, not merely because it meant a profitable weekend but also because it ended an irritating run of near misses. His SP of 7/1 was disappointing - naïve - [Lampard the man for Derby](https://www.martenjulian.com/lampard-the-man-for-derby/) - Having gone for Marin Cilic quite solidly in the Men’s Singles at Wimbledon I am not about to make any great claims regarding other selections. - [Blakeney Point for the Ebor?](https://www.martenjulian.com/blakeney-point-for-the-ebor/) - A run of near misses has to end sometime, of course, and in my case it may happen with Century Dream at Ascot on Saturday, not that he will be a great price. Most of the way up the straight at Ascot I thought he might win the Queen Anne or at least be placed - [Plan working well - send more money](https://www.martenjulian.com/plan-working-well-send-more-money/) - I have absolutely no doubt that the right move, betting-wise, when Belgium beat England 1-0, was to back England outright with a view to saving on the day of the World Cup Final. But right moves don’t always pay off and the Croatia defeat ended what looked like a perfect set-up. Yes, I was surprised - [Island Brave worth noting](https://www.martenjulian.com/island-brave-worth-noting/) - I don’t know that I shall ever understand what goes on in certain markets and I sit here stunned by the 10/1 about Born To Boogie in the opener at Brighton on Tuesday. - [Weaker half helps England](https://www.martenjulian.com/weaker-half-helps-england/) - The first bet in the World Cup came up when England ran riot against Panama and took their goal tally to eight overall, not bad as we needed only seven - [Second Step to frank the form](https://www.martenjulian.com/second-step-to-frank-the-form/) - It was not a successful Royal Ascot for me, though I thought it a marvellous meeting. Looking back now, backing Wild Illusion in the Ribblesdale was a mistake. (I separate ‘mistakes’ from ‘losers’ - [Goal spree nets a profit](https://www.martenjulian.com/goal-spree-nets-a-profit/) - The first bet in the World Cup came up when England ran riot against Conference South-class Panama and took their goal tally to eight overall, not bad as we needed only seven in their Group G matches to justify a bet at 11/10. - [A Short Time Away](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-short-time-away/) - Hi there, I am away south for a fortnight to cover a few meetings, stable visits and a day or two at Wimbledon. I look forward to getting back to you soon after my return. Bye for now Marten - [Royal Ascot Approaches ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/royal-ascot-approaches/) - Hi there! It’s only a few days to go before the start of the 2018 Royal Ascot festival and, after a challenging spell, things are starting to take shape in my mind. One of the hardest things to account for is unpredictable going – or a significant late change in ground conditions during a major - [ENGLAND  -  Especially Kane -  need early goals](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-kane-need-early-goals/) - I came late to the French Open with a hip replacement clouding the issue. I was starting to get games right in the second week - Sharapova no chance against Muguruza, del Potro probably having to work hard to get past Cilic, Halep the likeliest winner of the women’s event - but opposing Nadal, a - [The Derby Retrospective](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-derby-retrospective/) - Hi there! Ok – I readily admit that I got the Derby totally wrong this year. It’s a race that has served me well over the last four decades or so, but to my cost I never gave the winner Masar more than a passing thought. For some reason I, like many others, took the - [Teething problems with a solution](https://www.martenjulian.com/teething-problems-with-a-solution/) - In June 2017 I started work on our new online shop and My account area. My main objective was to offer immediate downloads for our clients. This means if one of our services is available and you order it you can download it straight away. This is vital when it comes to horse racing information - [GDPR & how I look after our clients](https://www.martenjulian.com/gdpr_clients/) - Dare I say the words that everyone must be fed up of hearing about... GDPR or Data Protection? When I read things about GDPR I feel like we have been compliant with it before it even existed. Over the past 23 years I have been contacted many times by people wanting to sell me names - [Epsom Derby & Oaks Services](https://www.martenjulian.com/epsom-derby-oaks-services/) - The Epsom Derby & Oaks Online Preview Hi there! Epsom may not be to everyone’s taste but for me it has been a triumph over the years, yielding a profit to level stakes for the Online Preview every season. This season’s first Online Preview for the Newmarket Guineas meeting found Mabs Cross 9/2, Key Victory - [It's crystal clear - Stoute all the way](https://www.martenjulian.com/its-crystal-clear-stoute-all-the-way/) - A bonus last week arrived with Intisaab’s SP of 11/4. I thought he was something to bet on in the Class 2 conditions event at Haydock but imagined he’d start - [A brief rest after seven-up!](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-brief-rest-after-seven-up/) - Victories for Newcastle and West Ham last week made it seven winning football selections on the spin. We shall not rest on our laurels but now is the time - [The Epsom Picture](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-epsom-picture-2/) - Hi there! Things went quite well at Newmarket, with my pick of the outsiders Billesdon Brook landing the 1,000 Guineas. What this filly did to win a nursery at Goodwood last season from a mark of 87 was remarkable, and although that did not make her an exceptional filly by any means, the performance itself - [Hammers to strike a late blow](https://www.martenjulian.com/hammers-to-strike-a-late-blow/) - I admit to a feeling of great relief following Southampton’s utterly committed display at Swansea on Tuesday. It has been a very disappointing season and there will need to be major surgery during the summer but nothing much happened twelve months ago so we’ll see. I hope Mark Hughes is offered a contract but it’s - [A good opportunity for Intisaab](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-good-opportunity-for-intisaab/) - We were right in the first place to prefer Wild Illusion to Soliloquy in the 1,000 Guineas, although it hardly mattered because he finished only fourth. Godolphin were winning just about everything else (five winners over the weekend) but the Classics still prove elusive. Ballydoyle still holds sway, of course, and Saxon Warrior looked a - [Swansea up against it now](https://www.martenjulian.com/swansea-up-against-it-now/) - This is the time of the season when betting firms allow title/promotion/relegation issues to affect football prices. Having watched Southampton right through a troubled campaign I could not possibly make them favourites at Everton, yet the hosts can be backed at 2/1 on Saturday. Having said that, at long last there was tremendous spirit in - [Fahey looks keen on this](https://www.martenjulian.com/fahey-looks-keen-on-this/) - Last week worked out all right, given that Jallota was a non-runner at Leicester, Altior won at a hopeless price and Call Me Lord ran away with the Select Hurdle at Sandown, emphasising just how moderate the staying hurdle division is at present. Wholestone was well held in third and looks the sort of horse - [Website upgrade time](https://www.martenjulian.com/website-upgrade-time/) - I have always been keen to utilise technology to enable us to get information to clients quicker or to make our working lives easier while still offering - [Newmarket Guineas Weekend ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/newmarket-guineas-weekend/) - Hi there! The five-day entries for Newmarket’s Guineas meeting appeared today and the biggest shock is the absence of September’s name from the 1,000 Guineas. There had been little said by Aidan O’Brien about the filly this spring – often an ominous sign from a man who prefers to dwell on the positive – and - [Staying with palace](https://www.martenjulian.com/staying-with-palace/) - Brentford squeezed home against QPR last week to keep a nice run going and give themselves a chance of a play-off place. The second automatic Championship place - [Moore for Jallota takes the eye](https://www.martenjulian.com/moore-for-jallota-takes-the-eye/) - Sandown is the place to be tomorrow when another ‘orthodox’ NH season comes to a close, though it may fairly be said that summer jumping has changed everything. - [Classic Clues ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/classic-clues/) - Hi there, The main trials for the Newmarket Classics were run last week, with perhaps more negative than positive clues emerging from them. It has all been about Charlie Appleby in the opening weeks of the season – with Godolphin’s other main trainer Saeed bin Suroor playing a secondary role these days. Soliloquy ran to - [Brentford in with a shout](https://www.martenjulian.com/brentford-in-with-a-shout-2/) - Fairly brief this week. Crystal Palace virtually evened things up for us last Saturday with their 3-2 win over Brighton following Southampton’ - [Dolos may make up for Aintree](https://www.martenjulian.com/dolos-may-make-up-for-aintree-2/) - I came to no great harm in the Grand National because Milansbar made it safely round and bookmakers were paying out on the fifth. With the future in mind, - [Aintree Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/aintree-reflections-3/) - Hi there! I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Aintree even though the damp and cold conditions on the first couple of days meant the horses had their rugs on until they left the paddock. Ms Parfois must now take rank as my favourite mare of the season. Unfortunate when caught at Cheltenham by Rathvinden, she - [Last chance for Saints](https://www.martenjulian.com/last-chance-for-saints/) - We made a profit again last week, thanks to the draw between Chelsea and West Ham. I’m not saying the Hammers deserved to win - Chelsea had many chances - but Arnautovic should have had a penalty with the score at 1-1. The saver bet at 12/1 would have netted more profit.Southampton and Chelsea meet - [Delface may cheer Pipe](https://www.martenjulian.com/delface-may-cheer-pipe/) - I was very pleased with A Momentofmadness last week. As expected, William Buick bounced him out and opened up a handy lead. Runner-up Jumirah Bridge did very well after a six-months’ absence and should win a good sprint handicap on turf but A Momentofmadness was well in control and the 11/4 SP was a bonus.I - [An awkward weekend for Huddersfield](https://www.martenjulian.com/an-awkward-weekend-for-huddersfield/) - Much attention surrounds the local derbies in Liverpool and Manchester over the weekend. I think it would be wrong to suggest that the results in the Champions - [A Momentofmadess for repeat win](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-momentofmadess-for-repeat-win/) - When I studied the entries for the NH meetings this Saturday, the advance forecast going was heavy just about everywhere and, on top of that, the four televised - [Trainers lose right to self-certify for 12 months](https://www.martenjulian.com/trainers_selfcertify/) - I love working in this industry but do have to stick up for us every so often. I speak to a large number of clients and I am saddened to say we've lost a few - [Looking forward to Aintree ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/3334-2/) - The Aintree 2018 Online Preview This is to remind you that my Online Preview for Aintree will be available for subscribers to view on Wednesday evening 11th April. As was the case last year this edition of the Preview is published in one part, covering the Grand National, the full programme of racing on Thursday - [Newcastle solid enough again](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-solid-enough-again/) - As far as Saturday’s Premier League matches are concerned, the key game in the relegation struggle is clearly West Ham v Southampton.I think this is very tricky - [Alpha Delphini still on the up](https://www.martenjulian.com/alpha-delphini-still-on-the-up/) - Sometimes you have to see the funny side. I noticed with interest that the ‘Medburn’ horses had moved from Paul Henderson to Peter Hedger. I thought Paul ran - [Bristol City the only value](https://www.martenjulian.com/bristol-city-the-only-value/) - I was inclined to rest on my laurels after last week, when Crystal Palace and Southampton did us proud. Palace were much too good for Huddersfield and will not go down but the Terriers pose little threat up front and are in acute danger again. In fact, the bookmakers largely ignore several teams, or make - [Tabarrak has a favourites's chance](https://www.martenjulian.com/tabarrak-has-a-favouritess-chance/) - In a way, the most interesting horse performing on Town Moor on the opening day of the turf Flat season is John Gosden’s Taqdeer, who contests the 32Red Spring Mile, the Lincoln consolation race. Absent for the better part of two years and owned by Hamdan Al Maktoum, Taqdeer would surely not have been kept - [Cheltenham Reflections ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-reflections-2/) - Hi there! The first thing to say is that I expect Cheltenham’s clerk of the course Simon Claisse is sleeping more easily after what must have been a very stressful few weeks leading up to the Festival. There is obviously a limit to what he can control when it comes to the weather, but he - [A Lifeline for Palace here?](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-lifeline-for-palace-here/) - Sometimes the difference between the way journalists and bookmakers look at things can be quite amusing. Wigan have been beating Premier League teams, including Manchester City, on their way to the FA Cup quarter-finals and the newspapers can see another giant-killing act on the way against Southampton. Bookmakers know that one game has precious little - [West Of The Edge worth a small stake...](https://www.martenjulian.com/west-of-the-edge-worth-a-small-stake/) - It seems that Man Of Plenty is destined to miss out in big handicap hurdles and it was particularly galling to see him finish fifth in the Imperial Cup after securing some 42/1 a win and 7/1 a place on Betfair. The bookmakers know all about him, of course, and he would not necessarily win - [Cheltenham Update ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-update-2/) - Hi there! Nicky Henderson reported that he was ‘very pleasantly surprised’ with the condition of the track when he took his traditional tour of the course this morning. Although the ground is officially described as soft, with heavy patches, Henderson conceded that it was soft but a long way from being ‘desperate’. The new ground, - [Villa and Wolves for West Midlands draw](https://www.martenjulian.com/villa-and-wolves-for-west-midlands-draw/) - Football has its problems, the glut of money at the top end being a pretty fair starting point, but as long as it can surprise us we remain hooked. Even now I - [Staying with Man Of Plenty](https://www.martenjulian.com/staying-with-man-of-plenty/) - I was pleased with Encore D’Or last week; indeed, his victory and that of Abe Lincoln, also at Lingfield, showed how profitable it can be to follow Ryan Moore - [Cheltenham Update ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-update/) - Hi there! The big news broke this evening that Sizing John would not be able to defend his crown in next week’s Gold Cup. After Robbie Power rode the horse in exercise this morning he reported that something “wasn’t right” and it was diagnosed shortly afterwards that he has sustained a hairline fracture to his - [Cheltenham Briefing ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-briefing/) - Hi there! The major talking point at the moment relates to the weather, with some of the more reliable forecasters predicting a severe low-pressure system hitting the south-west over the weekend. If you believe the Daily Express, which I concede is prone to embroider such things, there may be torrential rain and strong winds followed - [Cheltenham Approaches ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-approaches/) - I am delighted to report that the Bulletin Book goes to print on Monday, packed with over 30,000 words of analysis covering every race. It would not be fair to subscribers to give too much away, but the main query as the big week approaches relates to the state of the ground. Clerk of the - [Ian Carnaby's Sports News](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnabys-sports-news/) - By Ian Carnaby: Fulham lifted us out of trouble last week with a splendid home win against Championship leaders Wolves. As I’ve been writing for a - [Encore D'or in swift return](https://www.martenjulian.com/encore-dor-in-swift-return/) - There will be no turf racing in Britain on Saturday and looking for AW possibilities just for the sake of it is invariably a mistake. - [Baggies’ late, late rally can start here](https://www.martenjulian.com/baggies-late-late-rally-can-start-here/) - I wrote the other day that I thought West Brom might still avoid the drop from the Premier League to the Championship. I hold to this and cannot, for the life of me, see what purpose would be served by sacking Alan Pardew now. The Baggies have twice lost at home to Southampton recently but - [Scarlet Dragon interesting first time up](https://www.martenjulian.com/scarlet-dragon-interesting-first-time-up/) - Waiting Patiently paid for the day last Saturday and I was delighted for Ruth Jefferson. This is a very exciting horse and it is good to know he will not be rushed into anything. From what she says, I should think Aintree is a more likely stopping-off point than Cheltenham, where the only race - [Fulham v Villa looks tight](https://www.martenjulian.com/fulham-v-villa-looks-tight/) - I was adrift last week, although when a home team loses a three-goal lead, as Bristol City did to Sunderland, you know it’s not really your day. I suppose, in these days of in-running bets, a total pro would have enquired about the draw as soon as Sunderland pulled one back because, as I mentioned - [Call Me Lord not a bad supporting act](https://www.martenjulian.com/call-me-lord-not-a-bad-supporting-act/) - Sometimes there are genuine grounds for feeling reasonably happy about a defeat. I thought Misterton ran very well indeed in the Betfair Hurdle last week, helping to force the pace to the home turn and still pressing on in the straight until it all became too much for him at the penultimate flight. The ground - [Cheltenham Clues Aplenty](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-clues-aplenty/) - Everything went to plan on Saturday, with the successful returns of Altior and Native River at Newbury and Saint Calvados impressing in the Kingmaker Novices’ Chase at Warwick. Starting with Saint Calvados, Harry Whittington’s bold-jumping five-year-old made his three useful opponents look distinctly ordinary, beating the talented Diego Du Charmil by 22 lengths with North - [Chelt Fest fever has arrived!](https://www.martenjulian.com/chelt-fest-fever-has-arrived/) - I know Cheltenham Festival fever has arrived as calls and emails have started coming through asking when our brochure is available. Another sign is that Marten confirms his attendance at the popular Cartmel Racecourse Cheltenham Preview Evening. We are currently working hard to launch our new online shop and My Account area which enable instant - [Baggies not down and out yet](https://www.martenjulian.com/baggies-not-down-and-out-yet/) - I doubt that the Premier League relegation struggle will look much clearer after this weekend’s fixtures. - [The Warrior may run well first time up](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-warrior-may-run-well-first-time-up/) - Last week worked out very well with Topofthegame winning well at Sandown. The bonus was the price; finding value is very difficult these days, - [What Did We Learn At Leopardstown?](https://www.martenjulian.com/what-did-we-learn-at-leopardstown/) - For once the accolades that have come the way of Samcro seem justified following a hugely impressive victory in the Grade 1 Deloitte Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown this afternoon. Despite dropping half-a-mile in trip down to two miles he had no trouble settling up with the pace before moving into the lead on the bridle - [Bournemouth pulling clear](https://www.martenjulian.com/bournemouth-pulling-clear/) - The relegation struggle in the Premier League may well last until the final round of fixtures and there will be many desperate encounters between now and the final curtain in May. Swansea have surprised everyone by beating Liverpool and Arsenal and much will depend on whether they can pick up a few away points, as - [Topofthegame has a leading chance](https://www.martenjulian.com/topofthegame-has-a-leading-chance/) - I was greatly relieved when Maria’s Benefit held on at Doncaster last week. She is a very tough and classy mare who took the step up to Grade 2 level in her stride but, when Irish Roe joined her at the last, I thought she would be beaten. In fact she battled on and was - [Murray's Wimbledon again....](https://www.martenjulian.com/murrays-wimbledon-again/) - Murray's Wimbledon again.... - [The Dormant Cheltenham Ante-Post Market](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-dormant-cheltenham-ante-post-market/) - I don’t appear to have missed much while I was away for a few days earlier this month. My short break in Gran Canaria almost came to a grinding halt before it started when upon opening my I-Pad in the hotel I found that access to betting sites was prohibited. Fortunately thanks to guidance from - [Blackburn a short-priced nap](https://www.martenjulian.com/blackburn-a-short-priced-nap/) - We made money last week with Aston Villa and Fulham winning easily. Fulham put six past Burton and are up and running now but the league game at Barnsley will not be easy. They can still make the top six but the Championship suddenly looks a hot competition with Wolves, Villa and Derby going well. - [Maria's Benefit so impressive](https://www.martenjulian.com/marias-benefit-so-impressive/) - Although Cheltenham stages ab excellent card on trials day, the safest short-priced favourite may be in action at Doncaster. MARIA’S BENEFIT was hugely impressive when hacking up by a wide margin at Taunton last time, beating horses trained by Paul Nicolls and Nicky Henderson, and will be hard to beat in Grade 2 Yorkshire Rose - [Fulham look top six material - at last!](https://www.martenjulian.com/fulham-look-top-six-material-at-last/) - There was no real damage done last week, with West Brom’s victory over Brighton more or less covering Newcastle’s failure to account for Swansea. I feel that West Brom will pick up most of the vital points against their fellow-strugglers and gradually ease away from danger. This is another reason why I think Southampton could - [Crossed My Mind is worth another chance](https://www.martenjulian.com/crossed-my-mind-is-worth-another-chance/) - I was relieved to see William Henry win the Lanzarote under quite a big weight last week. He benefited from James Bowen’s 5lb claim and did very well for a horse reverting to hurdles after an absence of a few months. As we know, the fate of all shrewd each-way bets is that they finish - [Stay with Newcastle](https://www.martenjulian.com/stay-with-newcastle/) - Breaking your own rules is often costly when it comes to betting and the FA Cup did me no favours last weekend, Watford’s easy victory against an overburdened Bristol City the only correct call. At least I managed to avoid Aston Villa v Peterborough, where the visitors won tidily enough against opposition clearly thinking in - [Viserion chooses Kempton](https://www.martenjulian.com/viserion-chooses-kempton/) - It was good to see Poppy Kay landing the main bet last week and I hope there will be several more to follow from the Philip Hobbs stable as we move towards the Cheltenham festival. I think the stable is over the virus now, although his novice hurdlers did not cut much ice at Huntingdon - [Brentford can shine on a tricky day](https://www.martenjulian.com/brentford-can-shine-on-a-tricky-day/) - I admit right from the outset that I am not a big fan of betting on the FA Cup, the main problem being the commitment (or lack of it) where some clubs are concerned. Having watched the Southampton v Crystal Palace game on Tuesday, I’d say that the hosts should now focus entirely on Premier - [Poppy Kay finds a listed opportunity](https://www.martenjulian.com/poppy-kay-finds-a-listed-opportunity/) - All being well, Chepstow stages the postponed Coral Welsh National on Saturday. It goes without saying the ground will be very testing and in recent years I’ve often thought that relatively few horses get home over nearly three and three-quarter miles. Indeed, there have been times when only two or three could possibly win rounding - [Cheltenham Ante-Post Opportunities](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-ante-post-opportunities/) - I am not surprised that a handful of bookmakers have decided to introduce the ‘non-runner, no bet’ concession earlier than usual for the top races at Cheltenham. As if the ante-post market were not dormant enough, any confidence that interested punters had would surely have been undermined by the results over the Christmas and New - [Newcastle may pick up now](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-may-pick-up-now/) - Under normal circumstances I’d be very happy with the draw between Aston Villa and Sheffield United last week and even thought it would be quite high-scoring - [Thomas Patrick the sensible choice](https://www.martenjulian.com/thomas-patrick-the-sensible-choice/) - At this stage there is not much point in going into detail where Saturday’s racing is concerned; all we can do is wait and see what the weather does and take - [Villa v Sheffield United most informative](https://www.martenjulian.com/villa-v-sheffield-united-most-informative/) - We showed a 26 points’ profit last week, thanks to Everton & Cardiff.The minor punt on Bournemouth against Liverpool was shot to pieces but I don’t regret that. - [Man Of Plenty not out of it at 50s](https://www.martenjulian.com/man-of-plenty-not-out-of-it-at-50s/) - By Ian Carnaby: Although the ill-starred Starchitect would have won the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup but for his fatal injury, it was hard not to feel for Clan Des Obeaux - [No stopping Everton now](https://www.martenjulian.com/no-stopping-everton-now/) - Doing well in the Premier League is all about knowing the requirements. An obvious thing to say, of course, but a point lost on Southampton’s Mauricio - [Nicholls may have caviar on toast](https://www.martenjulian.com/nicholls-may-have-caviar-on-toast/) - The Caspian Caviar Gold Cup at Cheltenham on Saturday is worth a great deal of money and the first thing that players have to decide is whether the BetVictor - [Highland Reel Retires](https://www.martenjulian.com/highland-reel-retires/) - I have just in the last hour completed writing the text for the Winter Guide – a mighty 28,000 words packed with news, views and previews of the season past, present and future. I make no apology for there being few ante-post suggestions for Cheltenham. I used to be a very enthusiastic player in the - [Staying with Villa](https://www.martenjulian.com/staying-with-villa/) - Staying with Villa - [Shotgun Paddy still a contender](https://www.martenjulian.com/shotgun-paddy-still-a-contender/) - Shotgun Paddy still a contender - [Wednesday moving well now](https://www.martenjulian.com/wednesday-moving-well-now/) - Wednesday moving well now - [American still improving](https://www.martenjulian.com/american-still-improving/) - American still improving - [Newbury Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/newbury-reflections/) - There were plenty of long-term pointers at Newbury today. Colin Tizzard and Robbie Power have high hopes for the opening maiden hurdle winner Lostintranslation when he can race on good ground in the spring. The jockey said afterwards that he loved the way the horse had come back on the bridle after making a mistake - [Never Underestimate Carlisle Form](https://www.martenjulian.com/never-underestimate-carlisle-form/) - Hi there It’s a long time since I’ve seen a Grade 1 race won by the margin Bristol De Mai achieved in yesterday’s Betfair Chase at Haydock. We all acknowledge that on testing ground the distances can be exaggerated, but even allowing for the possibility that Cue Card is not the hrose he was, we - [Palace can take a big step here](https://www.martenjulian.com/palace-can-take-a-big-step-here/) - It is always good to see one solid bet go in and Bournemouth were the only fancies last week for 50 units. They accounted for a modest Huddersfield team 4-0 despite playing the second half with ten men and I think, notwithstanding their surprise victory over Manchester United, the Terriers will do well to survive. - [Gulliver Still Travelling Well](https://www.martenjulian.com/gulliver-still-travelling-well/) - It is fair to say I have not adjusted to the new NH season just yet and I am keeping investments on the modest side until a few form-lines start coming good. Sizing John misses the Grade 1 Betfair Chase at Haydock, a sensible decision in the light of the way the course rides when - [Bournemouth at 10/11](https://www.martenjulian.com/bournemouth-at-1011/) - We pick up again this weekend after a rest last week - the correct decision as Plymouth showed yet again that they are not a team to back or oppose without very - [Le Prezien form reads well](https://www.martenjulian.com/le-prezien-form-reads-well/) - It is always galling when horses come nowhere near justifying their official rating and that was the way of it with Vintage Folly at Doncaster last week. - [Day off!](https://www.martenjulian.com/day-off/) - Yes, I was very pleased with last week, when Stoke v Leicester did indeed end in a draw and the bonus bet, Yeovil to beat Southend in the FA Cup - [Vintage Folly still fresh](https://www.martenjulian.com/vintage-folly-still-fresh/) - Permission’s victory last week was good news for us and I thought she did well to wriggle out of an awkward position on the rails. She started at 7/2 but was - [Cheltenham November Meeting Online Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-november-meeting-online-preview/) - The Cheltenham November Meeting Online Preview Hi there! The three-day Cheltenham November Meeting is almost upon us, starting on Friday 17 November. I always have good news for this meeting and three years ago passed on strong messages for Caid Du Berlais 8/1, Katkeau 9/2, Bitofapuzzle 4/1 and my big gamble of the meeting which - [Reflections On Del Mar](https://www.martenjulian.com/reflections-on-del-mar/) - Hi there! I don’t ever pretend to claim that I know a great deal about US racing, but I was still intrigued by the events that took place at Del Mar on Saturday evening. I had listened to the pundits throughout the days leading up to the meeting, taking on board much of what they - [Stoke V Leicester looks tight](https://www.martenjulian.com/stoke-v-leicester-looks-tight-2/) - One or two things occurred while watching the relentless flow of football this week. Bournemouth are undoubtedly better than their league position - [Permission in good heart](https://www.martenjulian.com/permission-in-good-heart-2/) - Last week’s results were something of a mixed bag and it was galling to see both Roaring Lion and Pastime beaten a neck, - [Stoke V Leicester looks tight](https://www.martenjulian.com/stoke-v-leicester-looks-tight/) - Stoke V Leicester looks tight - [Permission in good heart](https://www.martenjulian.com/permission-in-good-heart/) - Permission in good heart - [Moore's bookings worth a look](https://www.martenjulian.com/moores-bookings-worth-a-look/) - The Flat is gradually ebbing away and a visit to Cheltenham today acted as a reminder of how popular quality NH racing has become. - [Watford should not be underestimated](https://www.martenjulian.com/watford-should-not-be-underestimated/) - The football world becomes ever crazier, especially at Premier League level, with Leicester and Everton wasting no time in looking for a new manager after a few poor results. Clearly, Leicester’s new owners do not beat around the bush and Paul Shakespeare probably knew he had only a short time to impress the powers that - [Autumnal Musings From Carlisle](https://www.martenjulian.com/autumnal-musings-from-carlisle/) - Hi there! Things really move up a gear for lovers of jump racing this weekend, with high-class meetings at Cheltenham and Aintree. My last two visits to the track have been up the road to Carlisle, a course that attracts a decent class of jumper and one that is well liked by professionals. There did - [Bournemouth can take something from The Potteries](https://www.martenjulian.com/bournemouthcantake/) - I thought the Charlton v Doncaster match last week would never end and it was still going on as Charlotte Green read out the classified results in Sports - [The wetter the better for Bateel](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-wetter-the-better-for-bateel/) - I was pleased and relieved when Dark Red came through to win the opener at York last week. Not only did he pay for the day at 10/1 but we were right - [Charlton climbing steadily now](https://www.martenjulian.com/charlton-climbing-steadily-now/) - When I suggested a modest bet on Bristol Rovers at Northampton last week I hardly expected them to win 6-0. It was good news for us and for manager Darrell Clarke, who is doing a splendid job with little outside comment. Should Rovers gain promotion this time - admittedly a long way off - he - [Upstaging has the right credentials](https://www.martenjulian.com/upstaging-has-the-right-credentials/) - Roger Charlton did us proud last week with Cribbs Causeway winning at Newmarket and Projection chasing up Blue Point in a Group 3 at Ascot. He wasn’t unlucky and the Godolphin horse will always have that mid-race speed over him, though I must say I think Projection would have won the Stewards’ Cup or the - [Newmarket Bound](https://www.martenjulian.com/newmarket-bound/) - Hi there! I am just leaving for a few days at Newmarket to cover one of my favouyrite meetings of the year. I have to admit that I have not yet come to terms with the adjustments made to the autumn schedule a few years ago, but this is an important meeting for me because - [Bristol Rovers ticking Over Uner Clarke](https://www.martenjulian.com/bristol-rovers-ticking-over-uner-clarke/) - Lucky and unlucky. Pointless words, really, and no way to look at the betting game. West Ham and Bournemouth were still 0-0 with the clock ticking towards - [A good day for Roger Charlton?](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-good-day-for-roger-charlton/) - It crossed my mind to write a piece about Dark Red in the press but, of course, you never know what furies might be unleashed. Maybe he didn’t like the surface - [Looking Ahead ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/looking-ahead/) - Hi there! I know I probably say this every year, but the autumn really is my favourite season – both in nature and the racing calendar. It’s a time for both reflection and anticipation – reflections on the past few weeks of the Flat season and anticipation as the news filters through about the old - [Red Pike has each-way prospects](https://www.martenjulian.com/red-pike-has-each-way-prospects/) - I had a passing thought about Saturday’s Cambridgeshire, which was that Dark Red, unsuited by the slow early pace in a four-runner affair at Doncaster, would - [Bournemouth and West Ham favoured](https://www.martenjulian.com/bournemouth-and-west-ham-favoured/) - Good old Albert Adomah. I don’t think I’ve ever had a bet on a team to win with so-and-so the first scorer (and quite rightly, because the value is non-existent) - [Talent Abounds](https://www.martenjulian.com/talent-abounds/) - Hi there Saxon Warrior confirmed the excellent impression he made in his maiden success at the Curragh when landing today’s Group 2 Beresford Stakes at Naas. The form of his maiden had not worked out that well – the second has since been beaten twice – but the manner in which he delivered his long - [Villa starting to click now](https://www.martenjulian.com/villa-starting-to-click-now/) - Ian Carnaby's sports news: I don’t like anything in the top section but Aston Villa are starting to look like a force to be reckoned with (and about time too) - [Sellingallthetime may be the value](https://www.martenjulian.com/sellingallthetime-may-be-the-value/) - Ian Carnaby's blog: he loss of the Ayr Western Meeting has seriously curtailed betting opportunities for this weekend although, to be frank, multi-runner sprint - [Watford may give City a scare](https://www.martenjulian.com/watford-may-give-city-a-scare/) - We made a handy profit last week with West Ham and QPR both winning, results which made up for Southampton’s defeat at home to Watford. As I’m often pointing out, the bookmakers overestimate the Saints, who are hopelessly ineffective in front of goal. I though they’d do enough to beat Watford but the latter have - [Moore a good booking for Lexington Abbey](https://www.martenjulian.com/moore-a-good-booking-for-lexington-abbey/) - Kevin Ryan will have been disappointed with Brando’s running in last week’s Sprint Cup at Haydovk but this has never been a horse with a totally reliable record and it will be remembered he ran no race in the Duke Of York Stakes at York in May. Of course, the trainer’s string was about to - [West Ham must make a start here](https://www.martenjulian.com/west-ham-must-make-a-start-here/) - It was good to get back on track when Exeter narrowly accounted for Newport last week. They are an attractive, compact unit and can gain promotion this term. - [Cards have fallen nicely for Brando](https://www.martenjulian.com/cards-have-fallen-nicely-for-brando/) - Although it’s always tricky to work things out after rain at Haydock, for the simple reason that the track holds plenty of water, I find the meeting on Saturday - [Exeter can continue their fine start....](https://www.martenjulian.com/exeter-can-continue-their-fine-start/) - Last week was unproductive and I admit I was very surprised by Crystal Palace’s failure at home to Swansea. Palace have started very poorly and the crowd let them know all about it. Sometimes it can take a new manager a while to get his ideas across and I imagine that is the way of - [Pacify hails from a stable in form...](https://www.martenjulian.com/pacify-hails-from-a-stable-in-form/) - I had regrets at York, most notably the failure to go for Marsha each-way in the Nunthorpe. Even had the two big names run to their best, she would still have been favourite to finish third, so 10/1 in places beforehand was undoubtedly generous. We all know what happened. Sir Michael Stoute had a winner, - [York Ebor Observations](https://www.martenjulian.com/york-ebor-observations/) - Hi there Here are a few observations from the York Ebor meeting. Following torrential rain during the morning, changing the ground from good to firm to good to soft, with soft patches, the opening sprint handicap was bizarrely won by established fast-ground performer Desert Law. Dee Ex Bee was very disappointing in the Acomb Stakes. - [Sports News](https://www.martenjulian.com/sports-news/) - At this distance I have to rely on things I’ve seen and after watching the Southampton-Swansea goalless draw on the opening day I thought Swansea - [Stoute in form on Ebor day](https://www.martenjulian.com/stoute-in-form-on-ebor-day/) - I was pleased when Threading ended a lean spell and we must give stable-companion Dee Ex Bee another chance following his poor effort on Wednesday - [Swansea seemingly without a prayer...](https://www.martenjulian.com/swansea-seemingly-without-a-prayer/) - Last week’s update did not take for some reason, though there was no great loss because Southampton failed to score against Swansea, as did Bournemouth at West Brom. The match at St Mary’s was extraordinary and routine at one and the same time. Any neutral would have found it extraordinary because Southampton were much too - [Growl and Right Touch a powerful Fahey team...](https://www.martenjulian.com/growl-and-right-touch-a-powerful-fahey-team/) - I’m not quite sure what happened last week but the Friday update did not take. In fact there was no disaster in this because the main selection was Lexington Abbey in the opener on Shergar Cup day and he could manage only third. He continues to run well over five at Ascot but without quite - [York Ebor Promises So Much](https://www.martenjulian.com/york-ebor-promises-so-much/) - The York Ebor meeting starts on Wednesday and I am writing a two-part Online Preview, with Part One available to view on Tuesday evening and Part Two on Thursday evening. I have found winners at 16/1, 8/1 (twice), 5/1, 3/1 (twice) etc in recent issues and three of last year’s best bets were Barsanti 5/1, - [Missed Opportunites](https://www.martenjulian.com/missed-opportunites/) - Looking back over the last three weeks I have to say that there have been a number of missed opportunities. It all started on King George day at Ascot, when the rain started to pour down in early afternoon. I have said many times that a sudden change in underfoot conditions can open up rare - [Wednesday can make a bright start](https://www.martenjulian.com/wednesday-can-make-a-bright-start/) - I have been at Goodwood all week and it would be wrong to go in for lengthy spirts prognostications without sitting down and doing the research. As you know, - [Ian's Racing News](https://www.martenjulian.com/ians-racing-news/) - In my opinion the ground at Goodwood is not nearly as bad as people are saying and the proof is that the jockeys still seem to be favouring the far side, - [Extraordinary West Ham Value](https://www.martenjulian.com/extraordinary-west-ham-value/) - By Ian Carnaby: I don’t think Leicester’s title success was a fluke but neither do I think it was a vintage year. They levelled right out under Ranieri - [Makzeem handily weighted here](https://www.martenjulian.com/makzeem-handily-weighted-here/) - By Ian Carnaby: Fahey is a master when it comes to picking up bargains at the sales, often with this particular race in mind. - [Gigginstown Shuffle The Pack Again ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/gigginstown-shuffle-the-pack-again/) - I have never met Michael O’Leary or anyone from Gigginstown Stud but they are evidently quite hard to please. Following the fall-out with Willie Mullins last season the news broke today that Bryan Cooper will no longer be riding as first jockey and the owners will not be employing a retained rider for the new - [Murray has a point to prove](https://www.martenjulian.com/murray-has-a-point-to-prove/) - I was some way adrift at Wimbledon. The closest I came was Johanna Konta’s excellent effort in reaching the semi-finals, - [Fahey the man in super sprint](https://www.martenjulian.com/fahey-the-man-in-super-sprint/) - By Ian Carnaby: Last weekend was a time for majoring on each-way bets with Lexington Abbey nicking fourth at 16/1 at Ascot and Steady Pace just failing - [Federer Nearly There...](https://www.martenjulian.com/federer-nearly-there/) - Federer Nearly There... - [Noseda In Form Now...](https://www.martenjulian.com/noseda-in-form-now/) - Noseda In Form Now... - [Konta has a major chance](https://www.martenjulian.com/konta-has-a-major-chance/) - Konta has a major chance - [Lincoln Soon Back In Action](https://www.martenjulian.com/lincoln-soon-back-in-action/) - Lincoln Soon Back In Action - [One To Note For Galway?](https://www.martenjulian.com/one-to-note-for-galway/) - I am down south for my annual trip to Wimbledon so this page may not be updated for the next fortnight. Just looking back to yesterday’s Irish Derby, the result confirmed what we long suspected that there is barely more than a pound or two between this season’s middle-distance three-year-olds. Capri won on the nod - [Pliskova a surprise joint-favourite](https://www.martenjulian.com/pliskova-a-surprise-joint-favourite/) - I have written a great deal about Andy Murray and shall not repeat myself but what I will say is that, if he falls short, an outsider will win the title because it is hard to see Novak Djokovic - [The right start for Don't Touch](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-right-start-for-dont-touch/) - I ended up thankful for Medburn Dream at Lingfield last Saturday evening, though The Tin Man managed to ‘top and tail’ Royal Ascot following the nap Ribchester - [Royal Ascot - A Look Back](https://www.martenjulian.com/royal-ascot-a-look-back/) - It was something of a frustrating week at Royal Ascot, with more than our fair share of near-misses. As you know I decided to be brave and select long-priced horses, at prices ranging to 100/1, and we were rewarded with a 12 of them making the frame including the winners Stradivarius, who was heavily supported - [Del Potro appeals as a possible 'saver'](https://www.martenjulian.com/del-potro-appeals-as-a-possible-saver/) - I have sounded so confident about Andy Murray where Wimbledon is concerned that there should be an update following his surprise exit at Queen’s - something that probably stopped the sponsors in their tracks. - [Outback traveller close to a repeat](https://www.martenjulian.com/outback-traveller-close-to-a-repeat/) - It has been a superb Royal Ascot with Aidan O’Brien again carrying all before him, although Godolphin are also in fine form. - [Our Telephone Lines](https://www.martenjulian.com/our-telephone-lines/) - Many years ago Marten and I spoke about stopping our Premium Rate lines. We hate charging clients so much to hear a line. For over ten years I have tried to change the way we provide the service and have spoken to our telecom provider(s) trying to come up with a holiday hold system, but - [Royal Ascot Info 2017](https://www.martenjulian.com/royal-ascot-info-2017/) - I gather there have been a few enquiries from clients about me not writing a booklet for Royal Ascot this year. The reason is that of the 30 races at the meeting, at the time of deadline there are entries for less than half of them. Also, these entries were made a long time ago - [Murray's Wimbledon again...](https://www.martenjulian.com/murrays-wimbledon-again-2/) - Murray's Wimbledon again... - [Spark Plug can step up...](https://www.martenjulian.com/spark-plug-can-step-up/) - Spark Plug can step up... - [Royal Ascot Looming ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/2409-2/) - Hi there! I was quietly impressed with the way Seaella won the 6f seller at York for John Quinn at York this afternoon. The daughter of Canford Cliffs won this by a length and a half looking as if she was ready for a step up to seven furlongs. Nurseries beckon for her from now - [Megan Lily Happy Here...](https://www.martenjulian.com/megan-lily-happy-here/) - Megan Lily Happy Here... - [Zverev the coming man](https://www.martenjulian.com/zverev-the-coming-man-2/) - By Ian Carnaby: In fact there is very little to add because I never tip again if an early fancy goes out of a competition, in this case Alexander Zverev - [Duke of Firenze solid each-way](https://www.martenjulian.com/duke-of-firenze-solid-each-way/) - By Ian Carnaby: I have no strong thoughts about the Derby and judging from the market I am in the clear majority. Best Solution put up arguably the best trial - [Zverev The Coming Man...](https://www.martenjulian.com/zverev-the-coming-man/) - Zverev The Coming Man... - [Rossa Ryan Flying Now...](https://www.martenjulian.com/rossa-ryan-flying-now/) - Rossa Ryan Flying Now... - [Epsom Derby & Oaks Online Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/epsom-derby-oaks-online-preview/) - We are fast approaching my favourite, and historically, most successful meeting of the year. Epsom may not be to everyone’s taste, but my record since I first started to go racing there in my teens has been better than for any other meeting of the season. This year’s Derby looks open and intriguing. As I - [Thiem a rising star](https://www.martenjulian.com/thiem-a-rising-star/) - Thiem a rising star - [Ribchester the star on Fahey day?](https://www.martenjulian.com/ribchester-the-star-on-fahey-day/) - Ribchester the star on Fahey day? - [The Epsom Picture](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-epsom-picture/) - I wasn’t surprised to see Sobetsu win the Prix Saint-Alary at Deauville this afternoon. Apart from Coronet she was the filly that most interested me, having impressed when winning her maiden by 10 lengths at Newmarket last September before finding things going against her next time out in the Group 1 Fillies Mile, where the - [Owls for top flight return...](https://www.martenjulian.com/owls-for-top-flight-return/) - Owls for top flight return... - [Kelvingrove may follow up...](https://www.martenjulian.com/kelvingrove-may-follow-up/) - Kelvingrove may follow up... - [The 2,000 Guineas Verdict](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-2000-guineas-verdict/) - I suppose a victory for Churchill, advised at 8/1, with Barney Roy second, advised each-way at 5/1, was the perfect result for the Weekend Card ante-post feature even though the race left me feeling a little underwhelmed. As you are aware I had written beforehand that I hoped the race would stand comparison with some - [Liverpool may cut loose here...](https://www.martenjulian.com/liverpool-may-cut-loose-here/) - Liverpool may cut loose here... - [Bryan's claim may make the difference](https://www.martenjulian.com/bryans-claim-may-make-the-difference/) - Bryan's claim may make the difference - [A Vintage 2,000 Guineas ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-vintage-2000-guineas/) - I have to say that I am really excited by this year’s 2,000 Guineas. We have had some truly sensational winners of the race in past years, none more so than Frankel in 2011, while I can remember El Gran Senor beating Chief Singer, Lear Fan and Rainbow Quest – probably the best 2,000 Guineas - [El Vip primed for this](https://www.martenjulian.com/el-vip-primed-for-this/) - Sometimes you simply have to let a horse go and I shall not be chasing losses following Shui Feng’s poor effort in the Newbury Spring Cup last week. Perhaps he is slightly better on the all-weather these days but I took no encouragement from the race. Punchestown was rather better and Minella Awards paid a - [A very stiff task for Hull](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-very-stiff-task-for-hull/) - A very stiff task for Hull - [Barney Roy ... A Great Prospect](https://www.martenjulian.com/barney-roy/) - I was most impressed by the manner of Barney Roy’s victory in Saturday’s Greenham Stakes. There was good late money for the son of Excelebration, who had made a winning debut over a mile at Haydock last September. Following that success he was bought by Godolphin and, in my view, this could prove one of - [Forest must pick up here](https://www.martenjulian.com/forest-must-pick-up-here/) - Forest must pick up here - [Shui Feng can go close at a price](https://www.martenjulian.com/shui-feng-can-go-close-at-a-price/) - Shui Feng can go close at a price - [Classic Observations](https://www.martenjulian.com/classic-observations/) - There were Classic clues aplenty at Newmarket this week and this afternoon at Newbury. I realised that John Gosden had a host of talented three-year-olds when writing my Dark Horses Annual a few weeks ago and after a sluggish start things have moved into gear for him this week. He was high in his praise - [Aldeburgh still in good heart](https://www.martenjulian.com/aldeburgh-still-in-good-heart/) - I’m ready to let the jumps season go apart from the big Irish meeting, which means Saturday will be very quiet for me. Unlike Good Friday, when I should have - [Palace can win again](https://www.martenjulian.com/palace-can-win-again/) - Palace can win again - [Aintree Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/aintree-reflections-2/) - Following the misfortune and bad luck at Cheltenham, with a host of seconds and thirds at very long prices, normal service was resumed at Aintree last week with a good profit for my clients. On Thursday my main selection was Double W’s, who had probably found the extended 2m 4f trip beyond him at Cheltenham. - [Baggies & Saints can end all square...](https://www.martenjulian.com/baggies-saints-can-end-all-square/) - Last week was another profitable one with Liverpool accounting for Everton in the Merseyside derby - [Snow Falcon is worth another chance...](https://www.martenjulian.com/snow-falcon-is-worth-another-chance/) - Last week was profitable for us with Tupi easily winning the Cammidge Trophy at 7/1 - [Paul Day's Preview of the US Masters](https://www.martenjulian.com/paul-days-preview-of-the-us-masters/) - I am on my way to Aintree for three days and look forward to updating you with all the news on my return on Sunday. By the way, for golf enthusiasts, Paul Day has nominated a 30/1 investment in his preview of the US Masters in the Guest Contributor section of the site. You can - [Paul Day's US Masters Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/paul-days-us-masters-preview/) - The 2017 US Masters Preview Thursday sees the start of the 81st Masters, certainly my favourite golf tournament of the year held, as always, at the magnificent Augusta National Course. Weather conditions have not been kind this year and the course has been hit by torrential rain but the venue will still look spectacular. Augusta - [The 2017 US Masters Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-2017-us-masters-preview/) - Thursday sees the start of the 81st Masters, certainly, my favourite golf tournament of the year held, as always, at the magnificent Augusta National Course. - [Dark Horses Annual News ...](https://www.martenjulian.com/dark-horses-annual-news/) - I have, at last, just finished writing the Dark Horses Annual for the new Flat season. This has taken longer than usual this year, due in part to late publication of the entries for the two Newmarket Classics and the Derby. To make matters even more challenging my preview of the Oaks had to be - [Liverpool can move closer to the Champions League](https://www.martenjulian.com/liverpool-can-move-closer-to-the-champions-league/) - There are two feasible betting opportunities in the Premier League this weekend. I hesitate to come out strongly for a team in a local derby but I feel LIVERPOOL have the fire-power to overcome Everton at Anfield, while Stoke, hard to break down as always (unless they’re playing Tottenham), can record a low-scoring draw at - [Oh this is us - we hope](https://www.martenjulian.com/oh-this-is-us-we-hope/) - When I looked at the entries on Wednesday OH THIS IS US made immediate appeal. Sure to be fit from Meydan and only 4lb higher than when winning over seven - [There should be goals at Gillingham](https://www.martenjulian.com/there-should-be-goals-at-gillingham/) - The only bet to appeal is both teams to score when Gillingham meet Peterborough in League One. - [Carlton Ryan Looks a Worthy Favourite](https://www.martenjulian.com/carlton-ryan-looks-a-worthy-favourite/) - Things have not been going well on the line recently but we were pretty much spot-on on this page last week, with Chase The Spud winning the Midlands Grand National and American fairly bolting up as well. All Chase The Spud does is stay and keep on for pressure. He finally wore down Mysteree and - [Bournemouth can win again to pull clear](https://www.martenjulian.com/bournemouth-can-win-again-to-pull-clear/) - NEWCASTLE go to Birmingham on Saturday and will feel that a win rather than a draw is essential, especially with Leeds and Brighton playing each other later - [Golden Spear looks a worthy favourite](https://www.martenjulian.com/golden-spear-looks-a-worthy-favourite/) - There will be time for a look back at Cheltenham at some other stage, though I can say it was not a successful meeting for me and the main disappointment - [Plans for Vroum Vroum Mag](https://www.martenjulian.com/2128-2/) - Hi there, The news is now through that Vroum Vroum Mag will join Limini in the line-up for the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle on Tuesday rather than tackle the Champion Hurdle. The field includes Apple’s Jade. With both Limini and Vroum Vroum Mag owned by Rich Ricci it will be interesting to see which of - [Finian's Oscar Now Out](https://www.martenjulian.com/finians-oscar-now-out/) - Hi there, Far more often than not a leading contender for the Festival sustains a setback the weekend before the meeting and we have had two in the last forty-eight hours. The first relates to Gold Cup hope Don Poli, who was third in last year’s race and has picked up an unspecified injury. This - [Newcastle must kick on again](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-must-kick-on-again/) - No damage done last week with Southampton winning at Watford (after flirting with disaster at 2-2) and QPR and Cardiff both scoring at Loftus Road. We were also right - [Bowson Fred - if he stays](https://www.martenjulian.com/bowson-fred-if-he-stays/) - I was disappointed with last Saturday, although things have been much better on the line since then and Dawson City provided a welcome boost at Wincanton on Thursday.My Cheltenham thoughts are published in the Weekend Card and I shall be repeating them as the week goes on, so there is no need to ramble on - [Market Unease On Cue Card](https://www.martenjulian.com/market-unease-on-cue-card/) - Hi there, A total of 15 horses have been left in next Wednesday’s Queen Mother Champion Chase, with no surprises. They include Douvan, with a number of doubtful starters still there as a precaution. They include Altior, Un De Sceaux, Uxizandre and Vroum Vroum Mag, who each have alternative targets. Looking ahead to the weekend - [Defi Du Seuil Plans](https://www.martenjulian.com/defi-du-seuil-plans/) - Hi there, Philip Hobbs has confirmed that Defi Du Seuil will not be among the entries for Tuesday’s Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, leaving Richard Johnson to take the mount in the Triumph Hurdle. Johnson also rides the consistent VillageVic in either the Ryanair or the Brown Advisory Plate. Harry Fry says that Neon Wolf will be - [JP McManus Riding Arrangements](https://www.martenjulian.com/jp-mcmanus-riding-arrangements/) - Hi there, Riding arrangements have been made for JP McManus’s string of Cheltenham contenders following the injury to his retained rider Barry Geraghty. Noel Fehily comes in for the mounts on Buveur D’Air and Unowhatimeanharry while McManus’s key player in his Irish team Mark Walsh gets the rides on Yanworth in the Champion Hurdle, Uxizandre - [The Bulletin Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-bulletin-book/) - I’m pleased to report that the Bulletin Book text was completed on Saturday and will go to print tomorrow (Monday). It will be ready for Package subscribers to view online on Tuesday evening, with the hard copies back for despatch on Thursday. As I have written elsewhere I have not known a Cheltenham with so - [Goals at Loftus Road](https://www.martenjulian.com/goals-at-loftus-road/) - All good things come to an end but I hope last week’s minor setbacks amount to a lull rather than the start of a poor run. Actually, it’s a quiet weekend again on the betting front, though Bolton look fairly priced at 10/11 to account for AFC Wimbledon in League One. Bolton are playing well - [Kasbah happy at Lingfield](https://www.martenjulian.com/kasbah-happy-at-lingfield/) - We came to no great harm last week, with both Blue Surf and Evening Hush finishing second. It may not be easy to catch Blue Surf now but Amanda Perrett should be able to find a fair mile and half handicap on the AW before the turf season clicks into gear. I do not have - [Master Blueyes Has Sound Claims](https://www.martenjulian.com/master-blueyes-has-sound-claims/) - I was quite taken with the way Master Blueyes won the Adonis Hurdle at Kempton on Saturday. Alan King’s grey was a fair handicapper on the Flat last summer, winning from a mark of 72 on his handicap debut at York in May and then following up off 79 a few days later at Chester. - [Blue Surf in good heart for this](https://www.martenjulian.com/blue-surf-in-good-heart-for-this/) - Friday saw a near miss with Amanda Perrett’s The Warrior, who has been gelded and was fit enough for his first appearance for several months when running in the seven-furlong handicap at Lingfield. He became very disappointing last term after starting well for the stable but there was always the chance he would rediscover some - [Poli Roi Top Class Prospect](https://www.martenjulian.com/poli-roi-top-class-prospect/) - The best young prospect I saw running over the weekend was in the closing bumper at Navan on Sunday. The word was out that Gordon Elliott had an exciting prospect in Poli Roi, who was hammered in the betting market from around 4/7 to 2/7. When they pile in at such short odds they seldom - [Cheltenham Fixtures 2017](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-fixtures-2017/) - A handy list of the 2017 Cheltenham Fixtures - [Bournemouth may arrest the slide](https://www.martenjulian.com/bournemouth-may-arrest-the-slide/) - Anyone following the football selection over the past few weeks should be quite a long way ahead and Cardiff and Newcastle both won last week without conceding a goal. There is nothing as strong this week, though NEWCASTLE should win again at the expense of the hapless Bristol City, who were booed off after yet - [Looking ahead to Cheltenham](https://www.martenjulian.com/looking-ahead-to-cheltenham/) - It’s nearly that time of year again when the nights start to draw in and the weather begins to turn. That can only mean one thing! Last year’s Festival was one to savour with Annie Power becoming the first mare since Flakey Dove to win the Champion Hurdle. Willie Mullins will once again no doubt have - [Newcastle to pull clear again](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-to-pull-clear-again/) - I still think NEWCASTLE will go clear again at the top, though when you have a sizeable bet at 2/1 for the title you can live without niggling doubts. - [Houblon Des Obeaux can go well again](https://www.martenjulian.com/houblon-des-obeaux-can-go-well-again/) - There is no future in playing at cramped prices so I find myself looking at my old friend HOUBLON DES OBEAUX in the Grand National Trial - [West Ham looking better now](https://www.martenjulian.com/west-ham-looking-better-now/) - By Ian Carnaby: It took Bristol City a long time to wear down Rotherham in a poor match at Ashton Gate last weekend but they got there in the end to keep our good - [De Name Escapes Me may be the danger to Clyne](https://www.martenjulian.com/de-name-escapes-me-may-be-the-danger-to-clyne/) - The only thing that ever irritates me when writing a piece like this is rubbish prices and I have to say the odds about Pretend and Soldier - [Bristol City at last](https://www.martenjulian.com/bristol-city-at-last/) - The only other bet apart from Palace is BRISTOL CITY to get going at long last by beating bottom club Rotherham in the Championship - [Pretend still on the up](https://www.martenjulian.com/pretend-still-on-the-up/) - Nicky Henderson has his team in excellent fettle just now and BUVEUR D’AIR should win the Contenders Hurdle at Sandown - [The Cotswold Chase](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-cotswold-chase/) - Others have written with far more eloquence than I ever could about the tragic end to last weekend’s Cotswold Chase. All I will say is that the horse had shown signs of post-race stress on at least two other occasions and although the post-mortem found that his death was caused by an internal bleed rather - [Douvan And Djakadam Impress](https://www.martenjulian.com/douvan-and-djakadam-impress/) - Willie Mullins may not always be the toast of ante-post players with his late decisions on running plans and last-minute switches, but nobody knows his horses better and he usually gets it right. That looked the case today, when Douvan won the Hilly Way Chase in effortless style by 22 lengths from Days Hotel, with - [Accidental Agent WON 14/1 and Found WON 6/1](https://www.martenjulian.com/1493-2/) - By Marten Julian: As is so often the case, having approached this weekend with no strong views things could not have turned out much better, with my sole - [Coneygree Out of King George](https://www.martenjulian.com/coneygree-out-of-king-george-2/) - I was not all together surprised to learn on Sunday that Coneygree will now miss the King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. I sensed all might not have been well. Sara Bradstock, who rides him in all his work, said the horse was “not himself” on Saturday having been in “flying form” - [Boxing Day Plans](https://www.martenjulian.com/boxing-day-plans/) - Ring Marten this Christmas and New Year If you want to hear my thoughts and information for Boxing Day and the festive holiday then give me a call on 0906 150 1555 Any selections are, as always, given in the first minute of the message. Calls are charged at £1.50 a minute at all times - [Glaring an interesting prospect](https://www.martenjulian.com/glaring-an-interesting-prospect/) - I could not be all that confident about Tenor Nivernais last week because he was stepping up to three miles and I’d been waiting for him in a top handicap chase - [Burnley v Boro looks tight](https://www.martenjulian.com/burnley-v-boro-looks-tight/) - It is a measure of how crazy football has become that Alan Pardew, deemed a failure at Crystal Palace, walks away heavy of heart but in receipt of a pay-off - [Bournemouth should start favourites in local Derby](https://www.martenjulian.com/bouremouth-should-start-favourites-in-local-derby/) - The good run continued last week with Newcastle winning comfortably and Sheffield Wednesday scoring in time added on at Reading to land the Both Teams To Score wager. As I mentioned seven days ago, Newcastle are over their blip and should go clear in the Championship. Their visit to Burton looks more straightforward than Brighton’s - [Outlander Saves The Day](https://www.martenjulian.com/outlander-saves-the-day/) - I had a feeling last week when writing my Online Preview that it was not going to be easy to find value over the Christmas period, in the main due to the number of races with small fields and short-priced favourites. Willie Mullins has had no fewer than 17 winners on the first three days - [Situation much the same for Tenor Nivernais](https://www.martenjulian.com/situation-much-the-same-for-tenor-nivernais/) - Otherwise I’m happy enough to wait for New Year’s Day and a strong Cheltenham card. We have waited a long time for TENOR NIVERNAIS and Venetia Williams has him - [Liverpool can strike a major blow](https://www.martenjulian.com/liverpool-can-strike-a-major-blow/) - It was another profitable week last week with Aston Villa and Sheffield United completing a short-priced double. Neither was particularly impressive but, against that, we were decidedly unfortunate when a late shot the goalkeeper should have stopped denied us a goalless draw in the Burnley v Boro match. If you can’t score, you can’t win. - [Briery Queen ready for this test](https://www.martenjulian.com/briery-queen-ready-for-this-test/) - It’s a shorter blog this week with the racing fairly ordinary apart from two or three contests at Sandown. I shall be accused of bias where SAINT ARE is concerned but he did us a good turn when second in the National the season before last and his fall at the first in the Becher - [Bristol City for a confidence boost](https://www.martenjulian.com/bristol-city-for-a-confidence-boost/) - Tottenham and Liverpool both won last week to keep our good run going and I believe they will fight things out as the Premier League enters its later stages. I realise Chelsea are still nicely clear but I thought Spurs were quite a bit too good for them the other night (as indeed they were - [Fulham on the up at last](https://www.martenjulian.com/fulham-on-the-up-at-last/) - There are some fascinating matches in the Premier League this weekend but they are very hard to call with betting in mind. For sure, Liverpool will have to play much better than they did at Southampton on Wednesday if they are to take anything from the visit to Old Trafford on Sunday. They were poor - [Houblon can go close](https://www.martenjulian.com/houblon-can-go-close/) - This is one of those weekends when things have not worked out in that three of the four horses I was looking at will not be in action. Briefly, impressive Cheltenham winner Call To Order misses the Pertemps Qualifier at Warwick, stable- companion Champagne At Tara avoids a tricky novices’ chase earlier on and Venetia - [Un De Sceaux is hard to oppose](https://www.martenjulian.com/un-de-sceaux-is-hard-to-oppose/) - Naturally I was pleased when Houblon Des Obeaux kept on willingly to snatch fourth at Warwick last week. The bonus was the 14/1 SP and a profit on the line - [Cardiff's Steady Improvement](https://www.martenjulian.com/cardiffs-steady-improvement/) - Neil Warnock can be something of a wild man & some of his comments in the heat of the moment are inexcusable but he shows time and again that he knows the game - [Project Bluebook Looks Useful](https://www.martenjulian.com/project-bluebook-looks-useful/) - It was fairly humdrum stiff today but we might have seen a good horse in the shape of Project Bluebook, who won the 0-135 handicap hurdle at Musselburgh. The son of Sinndar was a useful performer on the Flat, winning three of his 10 starts and ending the season on a mark of 81. He - [The Sales Inferno](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-sales-inferno/) - I am off to Doncaster Sales tomorrow (Tuesday), for a day out more than anything. The last time I went there was before Christmas, and I was very close to acquiring a horse from a leading Irish yard. I had spoken to the trainer beforehand and he gave me every encouragement, but when I looked - [Customer Service](https://www.martenjulian.com/customer-service/) - We don't always get it right. We are human! However, I can assure you I hate it when we get it wrong. My worst situation is when we have got it wrong for a new client. They might not know we've been established since the 70s. They might not know we are a family run - [Aso worth chancing off a higher mark](https://www.martenjulian.com/aso-worth-chancing-off-a-higher-mark/) - Punters at Cheltenham on Saturday will have to put up with some pretty short prices in four of the races. - [Newcastle and Norwich worth modest investments](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-and-norwich-worth-modest-investments/) - I think Sam Allardyce will keep Palace up and, quite apart from Hull, Swansea and Sunderland, I think they may have more to offer than other. - [Unowhatimeanharry is still the one to beat](https://www.martenjulian.com/unowhatimeanharry-is-still-the-one-to-beat/) - Things worked out well enough last week with Aso showing a small profit for his each-way second, though I think it would have been very close with better jumps at two of the last three. He is capable of winning one of these valuable chases but the handicapper will not be dropping him for a - [Utilise your Kindle!](https://www.martenjulian.com/utilise-your-kindle/) - Did you know that if you use a kindle you can send PDF documents to it to read? We have offered our books before in a Kindle format but we don't always have time (sorry). However, if you use a Kindle you have an email address that you can send a document to. To do - [Toon army to be happier this weekend](https://www.martenjulian.com/toon-army-to-be-happier-this-weekend/) - At long last the Blues are improving and, as things stand, they occupy a play-off place. The Barnsley defeat last week was a nasty jolt, though, - [Aso has each-way claims](https://www.martenjulian.com/aso-has-each-way-claims/) - Nigel Twiston-Davies and Jim Old are not sending Aldeburgh for the novices’ handicap hurdle at Doncaster on Saturday but he is worth waiting for on good ground - [Debece on a very handy mark](https://www.martenjulian.com/debece-on-a-very-handy-mark/) - As things turned out there was no need to cover Vicente in the Hennessy Gold Cup and it was a case of first thoughts turning up trumps because Native River - [Boro worth waiting for](https://www.martenjulian.com/boro-worth-waiting-for/) - MIDDLESBROUGH have taken quite a few people by surprise and look like holding their place in the top section without undue difficulty. - [Colin Tizzard's Dilemma](https://www.martenjulian.com/colin-tizzards-dilemma-2/) - I have been busily employed today writing my feature on the King George VI Chase for my Winter Guide. It has proved a fairly challenging assignment, if only - [Villa on the up now](https://www.martenjulian.com/villa-on-the-up-now/) - By Ian Carnaby: Ian's weekly sports blog is free and makes for a great read for football fans. - [Vicente may be each-way value](https://www.martenjulian.com/vicente-may-be-each-way-value/) - By Ian Carnaby: I was pleased and relieved when Venetia Williams took Tenor Nivernais out of a valuable handicap chase at... Continue reading through the link. - [Campaign for responsible planning permission](https://www.martenjulian.com/rebeccapetition/) - I am on the hunt for signatures please! Click here to sign To: South Lakeland District Council Planning Department South Lakes do not allow planning. Flood risk - Toxic - not affordable We would like SLDC to carefully consider a planning permission application from a local developer. We don't believe they have truly considered all - [The right start for my Tent Or Yours](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-right-start-for-my-tent-or-yours/) - By Ian Carnaby. Click here to read my free weekly racing blog. - [Sunderland can take another step](https://www.martenjulian.com/sunderland-can-take-another-step/) - Whilst it would be rash to read too much into Sunderland’s victory at Bournemouth a fortnight ago - the home team had enough chances to win two matches - the fact is that three away points lifted spirits on Wearside and gave David Moyes some breathing space. He should never have been put under pressure - [MK Dons can ease away from danger](https://www.martenjulian.com/mk-dons-can-ease-away-from-danger-2/) - The draws did not quite work for us last week, which ended a winning run, although only a very late goal in the Burnley-Crystal Palace match cost us a handy - [Bailey and Bass heading for Uttoxeter](https://www.martenjulian.com/bailey-and-bass-heading-for-uttoxeter-2/) - The only source of profit last Saturday was Growl’s last-gasp victory in the Wentworth Stakes at Doncaster. He has been on the go for a long time and is - [Reflections On Carlisle](https://www.martenjulian.com/reflections-on-carlisle/) - I was at Carlisle races on Monday for what looked a fairly humbrum day’s action. The lack of rain has caused havoc with the field sizes, both up here in the north and the south, but rain is forecast today and later this week, with Cheltenham’s clerk of the course Simon Claisse on stand-by to - [Seeyouatmidnight To Thrive](https://www.martenjulian.com/seeyouatmidnight-to-thrive/) - By Marten Julian: There was a good card of jump racing at Carlisle on Sunday, where the highlight was the Colin Parker Memorial Intermediate Chase. - [Keeping things simple](https://www.martenjulian.com/keeping-things-simple/) - I have decided to amend the way in which we offer our Telephone line, text message and email daily service. - [Djokovic can be opposed now](https://www.martenjulian.com/djokovic-can-be-opposed-now/) - Every now and then you see something in sport which leaves your heart feeling a little heavier. I would bet quite strongly that we have seen the best of Novak Djokovic and, when Andy Murray takes over as world number one, there will be little to disturb him for a few years. Djokovic is all - [Withernsea capable of a repeat](https://www.martenjulian.com/withernsea-capable-of-a-repeat/) - I have never been particularly enthusiastic about the Breeders’ Cup, partly because of the drugs employed across the water but also because I think it’s virtually impossible to predict which horses trained in Europe will still be capable of producing their best in November. Therefore, it’s familiar ground again this weekend and I’m hoping that - [Goals likely at the Amex](https://www.martenjulian.com/goals-likely-at-the-amex/) - By Ian Carnaby: All three selections came good last week, the bonus being the goalless draw between Swansea and Watford. As I mentioned a while back, - [Blacklion looks a big danger](https://www.martenjulian.com/blacklion-looks-a-big-danger/) - I have to admit I was disappointed with Right Touch last week. Although he seemed to be flying quite high in the conditions race which rounded off the Doncaster card, he had been lightly raced by Richard Fahey, was racing over his best distance of seven furlongs and had run well in a red-hot handicap - [This Looks Suitable For Right Touch](https://www.martenjulian.com/this-looks-suitable-for-right-touch/) - By Ian Carnaby: Last Friday’s missive worked out well with The Tin Man winning the Sprint on Champions Day at Ascot. As I mentioned to you, James Fanshawe has - [Newcastle Thrive In Open Matches](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-thrive-in-open-matches/) - I think it’s more of the same this weekend, with very short prices about some of the big teams in the Premier League. Perhaps I overwork the argument but this is why bookmakers’ advertisements focus on accumulators. When they miss out by one, punters regard it as a near miss and are cheered by the - [Ribchester to take centre stage](https://www.martenjulian.com/ribchester-to-take-centre-stage/) - The Cashel Man did us a good turn in the Cesarewitch, finishing a good fourth at 9/1. He was certainly available at bigger prices during the week, when it would not have been hard to find some 16/1. Incidentally, I take all the points about the winner being very well handicapped, though this particular race - [Livepool can land a major blow](https://www.martenjulian.com/livepool-can-land-a-major-blow/) - This is another weekend when bookmakers will be looking to tempt people with accumulators involving the Premier League’s top teams. Arsenal should account for Swansea, Manchester City look too good for Everton and Tottenham may have the edge over West Brom, reluctant though I am to include an away team. At that point I’d be - [Champions' Day Verdict](https://www.martenjulian.com/champions-day-verdict/) - Champions’ Day at Ascot yesterday lived up to its name, with a host of Group 1 and Classic winners clashing. I had a feeling beforehand that things would not all go Aidan O’Brien’s way and the defeat of Order Of St George was an early setback for the yard. I have to say that I - [Oaks Prospects Abound](https://www.martenjulian.com/oaks-prospects-abound/) - Promising prospects for next year abound at the moment and we may have seen a useful sort winning the 7f fillies’ maiden at Salisbury this afternoon. John Gosden holds a strong hand with his youngsters but it would not surprise me if Icespire proved one of his better fillies next season. Robert Havlin plays a - [COLCHESTER APPEAL ON VERY QUIET LEAGUE WEEKEND](https://www.martenjulian.com/colchester-appeal-on-very-quiet-league-weekend/) - We enjoyed another winning week with Tottenham beating Manchester City most impressively and underlining their own title claims although, as I have said from the start, much will depend on how long their respective Champions League challenges go on. I believe the title means more to Mauricio Pochettino than anything else and I have little - [THE CASHEL MAN HAS CLAIMS](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-cashel-man-has-claims/) - Last weekend worked out well enough with Quest For More winning the Prix du Cadran at Chantilly, though it would have been even better, had Pixeleen managed to poke her nose in front at Newmarket. She is a luckless filly, perfectly genuine but just touched off on a number of occasions. She ran very well - [Tottenham's title claims laid on the line](https://www.martenjulian.com/tottenhams-title-claims-laid-on-the-line/) - Last weekend showed the wisdom of shopping around for value. The 15-unit double on Bournemouth and Leeds, both odds against, ensured a handy profit and one more goal from Peterborough against Walsall would have paid the bills for a few weeks. I can’t quite get Walsall right. This was another 1-1 draw after a good - [Pixeleen not out of it in valuable sprint](https://www.martenjulian.com/pixeleen-not-out-of-it-in-valuable-sprint/) - Sometimes you have to be grateful for a minor placing, especially when the price drifts out to 14/1. Third Time Lucky paid for all other investments last Saturday, though I think he is better than that and would have gone very close indeed in the Cambridgeshire with a lower draw and slightly softer ground. There - [Middle Park and Cheveley Park Stakes Thoughts](https://www.martenjulian.com/middle-park-and-cheveley-park-stakes-thoughts/) - I was not as surprised as some may have been by the outcome of yesterday’s Middle Park and Cheveley Park Stakes. It was likely beforehand, and evident after a - [Peterborough ready to hit form](https://www.martenjulian.com/peterborough-ready-to-hit-form/) - The midweek League Cup games were interesting - some top clubs more interested than others and a couple of surprises, notably Preston at - [Third Time Lucky clearly laid out for this](https://www.martenjulian.com/third-time-lucky-clearly-laid-out-for-this/) - The going changed radically at Newbury last weekend and Ridge Ranger, unhappy on soft ground at Bath in the spring, started at a ridiculous 13/8 in the World Trophy Sprint. In fact she ran well to be third but was never going to hold on. She is very speedy on the right ground and maybe - [BRISTOL CITY STILL GOING WELL](https://www.martenjulian.com/bristol-city-still-going-well/) - Arsenal just about saved us last week with a late, very fortuitous penalty against Southampton, who defended well. On what I saw, the Gunners have a long, long way to go to match the main title contenders but, in fairness, they are very much a work in progress. You will never see a top-flight team - [RIDGE RANGER IS QUICKER THAN PEOPLE THINK](https://www.martenjulian.com/ridge-ranger-is-quicker-than-people-think/) - It was good to see Captain Colby winning so convincingly last week. Things are going very well at present and there have been many winners here and on the line, with the Symphony Group Handicap at Yotk doing us proud. Captain Colby, third that day, was following up Hay Chewed’s win at Leicester. They had - [Harbour Law No Surprise](https://www.martenjulian.com/harbour-law-no-surprise/) - I was really delighted to see my selection Harbour Law win the St Leger on Saturday for Laura and Ian Mongan. I have been aware of the son of Lawman since the spring when Tony Clark, who I have known since his days with Guy Harwood, brought him to my attention before he ever ran. - [Sunderland look mid-table material](https://www.martenjulian.com/sunderland-look-mid-table-material/) - If someone had told me that Kei Nishikori would break Andy Murray eight times, I’d have told him to take more water with it. In a truly astonishing match at the US Open, the Japanese played some of his very best tennis against a superior opponent who had looked almost invincible in his previous match - [Captain Colby has fair Portland chance](https://www.martenjulian.com/captain-colby-has-fair-portland-chance/) - The best thing of the weekend has already gone in, with Cloudberry winning at Sandown on Friday. He was strongly advised on the line and looked the proverbial ‘good thing’, going unpenalised for last week’s success in an apprentices’ race at Kempton and with David Egan due to claim 7lb as opposed to five this - [MURRAY IN WONDERFUL FORM](https://www.martenjulian.com/murray-in-wonderful-form/) - It was, of course, in the nature of things that Bristol City would put three past Aston Villa last week after failing to score against Newcastle. The ‘both teams to score’ bet would have paid out but you can’t chase after these things. Newcastle are hitting their stride now and beat Brighton comfortably enough. I - [SUEDOIS MAY CHASE UP LIMATO AGAIN](https://www.martenjulian.com/suedois-may-chase-up-limato-again/) - Last week worked out very well for us, with Princess Tansy going in at 9/1 and Nuno Tristan nicking fourth at Goodwood. He is capable of winning a good seven-furlong handicap before long, having done well from a wide draw seven days ago. One or two that I’d have fancied are non-runners on Saturday. I - [Aidan O'Brien's Success Continues](https://www.martenjulian.com/aidan-obriens-success-continues/) - I was pleased to see Opal Tiara win the Group 3 Supreme Stakes at Goodwood this afternoon. I have always had a fondness for this filly, who has run some very gutsy races in her time despite occasionally being raced a little above her class. There was a moment entering the final furlong today when - [SOUTHAMPTON TO MAKE A START HERE](https://www.martenjulian.com/southampton-to-make-a-start-here/) - It is a pity, with things going so well on the racing front, that the last two weekends have yielded nothing on the football field. Then again, there was a period of several weeks last winter when the football paid all the bills, so I suppose ‘swings and roundabouts’ applies. For the second time, I - [PRINCESS TANSY HANDILY WEIGHTED](https://www.martenjulian.com/princess-tansy-handily-weighted/) - Things have been going very well lately, with Blue Point and Showbizzy recommended on this page to follow the three winners on the line last Friday. We have used up quite a bit of ammunition but all selections have run well this week and I hope we can find some value on Saturday. Richard Fahey - [Great Success for the Weekend Card](https://www.martenjulian.com/1346-2/) - Great Success for the Weekend Card The Weekend Card has made a terrific start following its return, with three out of three (9/2, 3/1 and 5/2) from Marten’s Weekend Action feature in Issue 2 and an inspired 10/1 winner from William Reilly in Ireland (with others at 8/2 and 3/1). Aljazzi WON 12/1 and Royal - [Oympics Finale](https://www.martenjulian.com/oympics-finale/) - We are reaching the end of another amazing Olympic Games. It has been a truly brilliant performance from Team GB with 25 Golds and 61 medals in total as I write this. We have a few more chances today, Tom Daley in the 10m platform, Nicola Adams and James Joyce will both fight for gold - [A major test for Newcastle](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-major-test-for-newcastle/) - There were surprises on the football front right through last season but those prepared to play at short prices will have made Manchester United count against - [Blue Point has more to offer](https://www.martenjulian.com/blue-point-has-more-to-offer/) - By Ian Carnaby: It was a splendid day for the line on Friday with Quest For More, Nemoralia and Babyfact all going in. - [Maidens Maidens Everywhere](https://www.martenjulian.com/maidens-maidens-everywhere/) - The better class of long-term two-year-old prospects are starting to appear now, with hardly a day when there is not an interesting maiden race or two, and they don’t come much better than today’s Convivial Maiden Stakes at York, with a remarkable total prize-money of £60,000 shared between the first six places. The race was - [Paul Day's Olympics' Update](https://www.martenjulian.com/paul-days-olympics-update/) - The athletics is well underway now and tonight we have the Men’s 100m. The semi-finals take place at 1am with the final at 2 25am and for sports fans it has to be worth staying up! Usain Bolt looked in better form, to my eyes, in the first round heat but he wasn’t pushed at - [Goals at Griffin Park?](https://www.martenjulian.com/goals-at-griffin-park/) - It was good to start with a solid pick-up last Saturday, Millwall proving much too good for a moderate Oldham team at The New Den. The Lions will be there all the way this season and may well pick up three more points at MK Dons, who fell away to nothing last term and have - [Two Options in the Great St Wilfred](https://www.martenjulian.com/two-options-in-the-great-st-wilfred/) - We are away in Canada at present but I monitor the racing on a daily basis and things have gone well enough on the line, with Roger Charlton’s Paling a very safe favourite at Leicester on Sunday. I don’t know why Tigerwolf found things so hard in a race that looked at his mercy at - [Paul Day's Olympics' Update](https://www.martenjulian.com/olympics-update/) - I was delighted to see Van Avermaet win the Men’s Road Race and Van der Breggan win the Women’s Race. In fairness, they were very competitive races and both needed a fair share of luck to win, but both were excellent selections by my friend who specialises in cycling. He predicted Dumoulin would not use - [Aidan's Latest Superstar](https://www.martenjulian.com/aidans-latest-superstar/) - He’s at it again. Following the success of Caravaggio in Sunday’s Phoenix Stakes Aidan O’Brien found a new superlative to describe the colt, this time stating that they had never before had a horse at Ballydoyle “hit a top speed of 45 mph”, adding that he thought the previous fastest was “around 42 mph”. Such - [Olympics' Day One - Paul Day](https://www.martenjulian.com/olympics-day-one-paul-day/) - Today sees the start of the Rio Olympic, the 31st Olympic Summer Games. The Cycling Men’s Road Race is probably the highlight this afternoon. It takes place over a tough course, with multiple hard climbs to be endured before the medals are awarded. Although I follow the main tours, I would not profess to be - [Paul Day's Olympics' Diary](https://www.martenjulian.com/paul-days-olympics-diary/) - Paul Day will be updating his thoughts on the Olympics on a regular basis, starting today. Please refer to the Guest Contributor section of this page. - [Millwall for a convincing start](https://www.martenjulian.com/millwall-for-a-convincing-start/) - Fulham’s narrow victory over Championship favourites Newcastle offered a timely reminder that nothing is going to be easy in the months to come. Obviously a single-goal reverse will not change the odds all that much and I remain reasonably confident that Newcastle will be calling the tune before long but they need a solid home - [Red Box improving fast](https://www.martenjulian.com/red-box-improving-fast/) - The line has been in good form of late and Frankie Dettori kept things going with an 11/4 winner for Don Cantillon at Newmarket on Friday evening. I was a little disappointed that Thesme did not feature among the final declarations for the opening Sprint on Shergar Cup day at Ascot. She has been running - [VARIOUS TOTTENHAM BETS APPEAL](https://www.martenjulian.com/various-tottenham-bets-appeal/) - I’ve apologised in the racing blog for not updating on Friday. Things became very hectic at Goodwood on Friday and we are close to a break in Canada, as well. In fact, there wasn’t much to add on the football front and there is still plenty of time before the US Open, where I think - [RIBCHESTER RIGHT UP THERE WITH THE BEST](https://www.martenjulian.com/ribchester-right-up-there-with-the-best/) - I’m sorry it wasn’t possible to update in time for the weekend. I was at Goodwood and had to sort out various things, on top of which we are due to take a fortnight’s break in Canada shortly. I wouldn’t have tipped you the winner of the Stewards’ Cup. I was torn between too many - [Reflections On Goodwood](https://www.martenjulian.com/reflections-on-goodwood/) - I made no secret of the fact that I had recently been through a rough spell of form, but also added that I intended to do something about it. As I put on my Twitter account, I decided to return to basics and revisit some of the tried and tested methods that had served me - [Sad news, JT McNamara](https://www.martenjulian.com/sad-news-jt-mcnamara/) - By Will Reilly: A brilliant horseman and rider, he rode over 600 winners as an amateur but, tragically, was paralysed from the neck down following - [Tis Marvellous Is ... Marvellous!](https://www.martenjulian.com/tis-marvellous-is-marvellous/) - Tis Marvellous ran out a very comfortable winner of the Group 2 Prix Robert Papin at Maisons-Laffitte this afternoon, beating last month’s Queen Mary Stakes runner-up Al Johrah by two and a half lengths, with Norfolk Stakes winner Prince Of Lir a disappointing fifth of six. This was a second success in the race in - [](https://www.martenjulian.com/1208-2/) - STAYING WITH THE BLADES At around this time last year I went for Sheffield united to win League One with Walsall optimistically suggested as each-way saver material at 40/1. They did us proud, just holding on for third despite changing managers in mid-term. From the way Brentford responded to Dean Smith, there must be a - [BLITHE SPIRIT MAY BE HARD TO CATCH](https://www.martenjulian.com/blithe-spirit-may-be-hard-to-catch/) - BLITHE SPIRIT MAY BE HARD TO CATCH The telephone line has been very profitable over the past two weeks - over a hundred units to the good both times, even taking the shortest prices on offer. Things were nicely rounded off on Friday when Tim Easterby’s Midnight Malibu won the last at Ascot at 11/2 - [A quiet spell in the offing](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-quiet-spell-in-the-offing/) - By Ian Carnaby: There is nothing new to report or suggest on the sports betting front this week, mainly because I do not know a great deal about golf and it - [Mackay could be the jockey to follow](https://www.martenjulian.com/mackay-could-be-the-jockey-to-follow/) - By Ian Carnaby: I was pleased Solar Flair won for the line yesterday, although I thought he would be returned at a price bigger than 5/1. - [Getting A Feel For It](https://www.martenjulian.com/getting-a-feel-for-it/) - By Jodie Standing: Having been raised on a farm I have always had a passion for animals and creating a special bond with them. - [Back In The Lakes](https://www.martenjulian.com/back-in-the-lakes/) - It’s good to be back north in the Lakes after a few days in Esher. I paid a visit to Sandown on Thursday evening and came away with a couple of horses for the Weekend Card, which makes a welcome return next week. As for today I thought that Dutch Destiny won at Haydock in - [Newcastle will be the nap](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-will-be-the-nap/) - As soon as Novak Djokovic departed the scene at Wimbledon things looked good for Andy Murray and the 11/10 at that point was worth taking. Frankly, many of his matches seen routine, so superior is he to the opposition and, whilst people will say Jo Wilfried Tsonga made a game of it, Murray always beats - [quest for more looks solid](https://www.martenjulian.com/quest-for-more-looks-solid/) - This is one of those weekends when punters hardly know where to start and jockeys' agents probably need to lie down in a darkened room. Indeed, it is quite surprising that there are enough riders to go round when so many Grade 1 tracks race on the same day. To cut to the chase, the - [DEL POTRO UP AND RUNNING](https://www.martenjulian.com/del-potro-up-and-running/) - DEL POTRO UP AND RUNNING I think it best to draw a veil over England’s performance at Euro 2016, though it is not with the benefit of hindsight that I say Roy Hodgson was never the man for the manager’s seat. I said it when he was recruited and nothing has happened since to change - [GROUND IMPROVING FOR THE QUEST](https://www.martenjulian.com/ground-improving-for-the-quest/) - GROUND IMPROVING FOR THE QUEST Following Richard Fahey last Saturday meant a profit - it often will - when Gabrial won at Windsor. Whatever you do, do not give up on stable-companion Goerge Bowen, who may not have liked the Tapeta surface at Newcastle and still looks the type for the consolation Stewards’ Cup race - [The Gutsy Harzand](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-gutsy-harzand/) - Harzand must rank as one of the toughest middle-distance three-year-olds that we have seen for a long time. Both at Epsom, and at the Curragh yesterday, the son of Sea The Stars looked likely to be caught inside the final furlong but, on both occasions, he dug deep and found more to repel the challenge. - [England still the bet at 10/1](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-still-the-bet-at-101/) - Coverage of England’s progress to the last sixteen at Euro 2016 has been critical, even scathing at times. True, the changes Roy Hodgson made against Slovakia did not work out but the fact is that England were always going to make it to the next phase. They had any amount of possession and were never - [Another Saturday bonanza for Fahey?](https://www.martenjulian.com/another-saturday-bonanza-for-fahey/) - For the last couple of years Richard Fahey has been carrying all before him on busy summer Saturdays and this weekend looks like producing more of the same. The problem, of course, concerns races where he has more than one runner. This makes it difficult to go in for combination bets, trebles, accumulators etc, unless - [Royal Ascot Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/royal-ascot-reflections/) - Looking back at Royal Ascot last week, in my view the results reflected very favourably on the condition of the ground. Despite the heavy showers and steady rainfall, there were not really any ‘freak’ results and the quality horses were, for the most part, able to cope. In fact the very first race of the - [England still the bet](https://www.martenjulian.com/england-still-the-bet/) - I weakened and backed England at 8/11 against Wales. I happened to get away with it by about a minute and I suppose I wouldn’t have berated myself too savagely because I thought they should have been about 4/9. I’ve overrated them, I suppose, but I wouldn’t mark England down too harshly on this performance - [Mr Lupton is very well at present](https://www.martenjulian.com/mr-lupton-is-very-well-at-present/) - By Ian Carnaby - [Please write me a book & two e-versions?!](https://www.martenjulian.com/please-write-me-a-book-two-e-versions/) - I had a similar experience myself when a hardback book came out from one of my favourite authors and it was £20. At first I thought “Gosh that’s a lot I can’t - [Del Potro back at last](https://www.martenjulian.com/del-potro-back-at-last/) - I had thought of writing a detailed analysis of Euro 2016 but, to be honest, my thoughts have not changed much over the past few months. Once again, England seem in an ideal section to progress serenely to the second week but we never take anything for granted. The vital thing is for Roy Hodgson - [Barnet Fair retains ability](https://www.martenjulian.com/barnet-fair-retains-ability/) - Sometimes we take heart from minor successes. Whilst I had little idea where the winner of the Derby was concerned, I was pretty sure the Dante form would not be good enough and Wings Of Desire duly finished a creditable but well-beaten fourth. He does not look top class and, unlike other Gosden-trained horses with - [The Derby Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-derby-reflections/) - Even after going to great lengths to acquire an accurate appraisal of the ground at Epsom I have to concede that I probably got it wrong. There is heavy ground, soft ground, good to soft ground, holding ground and, perhaps the hardest to assess of all, ‘tacky’ ground. The official description for Derby day was - [Murray in perfect shape to prevail](https://www.martenjulian.com/murray-in-perfect-shape-to-prevail/) - Ian Carnaby's Sports News: I shall leave a detailed analysis of Euro 2016 to next week, although it seems to me that England will never have a better chance and - [Alston Speedsters worth a look](https://www.martenjulian.com/alston-speedsters-worth-a-look/) - By Ian Carnaby: The Derby is such a prestigious and important event within the horseracing world that it commands thousands of column inches. - [Royal Ascot book & what we do to keep you informed](https://www.martenjulian.com/royal-ascot-book-what-we-do-to-keep-you-informed/) - After many years speaking to clients I often get asked how we work together. Despite Marten and I living in the same town we actually work from seperate offices which may surprise some people. The truth is that Marten is a writer and needs his own space. I am noisy to work with! I take - [The Epsom Prospects](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-epsom-prospects/) - Hi there! As if having one of the largest fields for the Derby in such an open year were not enough, the uncertainty this weekend is further compounded by a changeable weather forecast. As I write on Wednesday it’s rained heavily at Epsom, with the going now generally more good to soft than good to - [Sports Update](https://www.martenjulian.com/sports-update/) - Things have been so busy on the racing front that there is only a minor update here, especially as I have no interest in international football friendlies. Kei Nishikori has successfully negotiated the first few rounds of the French Open although, like Andy Murray, he has been taken to five sets. It is a great - [BABYFACT A SMALL INVESTMENT](https://www.martenjulian.com/babyfact-a-small-investment/) - It was good to get a major selection in on the line on Friday when Pour La Victoire obliged at Brighton. It surprised me that 5/2 was readily available because he was certainly very well in - unpenalised for winning an apprentices’ handicap at Goodwood (runner-up successful since), with Georgia Cox now claiming the full - [Irish Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/irish-reflections/) - There were mixed messages with regard to the future from the weekend action at the Curragh. What the two-day meeting did demonstrate was the importance of the ground on the results, with at least two of the weekend’s top races – possibly three – going to horses that relished the mud. Had the rains not - [Bateel may just have the edge](https://www.martenjulian.com/bateel-may-just-have-the-edge/) - This is one of those Saturdays when it is difficult to know where to look first. Whilst there are betting opportunities around, caution is advised, particularly at Haydock and York, where the cards look very tricky indeed. It is unusual for Haydock to ride on the fact side but the going overnight was forecast as - [Nishikori ready to win a major](https://www.martenjulian.com/nishikori-ready-to-win-a-major/) - By Ian Carnaby: Although he is in the same section of the draw as Murray, I have a feeling that Japan’s KEI NISHIKORI can go a long way in the French Open. - [Betting hell](https://www.martenjulian.com/betting-hell/) - Why is it hard for people to get their bets on? What is going on? - [The Derby and Oaks Picture](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-derby-and-oaks-picture/) - It seems that any three-year-old colt that wins a maiden over a mile or more impressively at the moment has done enough to warrant a Derby interest. Mind you, this may not surprise those of you who bought my Dark Horses Annual, in which you may recall the closing line of the Derby Preview reads: - [Bookmakers ensure a Stoke V Hammers draw is the only value](https://www.martenjulian.com/bookmakers-ensure-a-stoke-v-hammers-draw-is-the-only-value/) - It was a good season overall and if you backed Spurs and Walsall each-way it was an excellent one. Like everyone else I was hugely impressed by Leicester’s Premier League triumph, though I do believe Tottenham were the best attacking side and I feel they will win a major trophy next term. In fact, they - [Gabrial is not out of this](https://www.martenjulian.com/gabrial-is-not-out-of-this/) - Naturally I was delighted by Aldeburgh’s victory at Nottingham last week. He was returned at 14/1 but there was no difficulty in finding some 16/1 during the - [The Derby Prospects](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-derby-prospects/) - I have never known Aidan O’Brien speak so openly about his Classic prospects as he has in the last few days. He displayed the patience of Job when speaking to Matt Chapman for ATR at the end of the day at Leopardstown on Sunday – I think the interview must have lasted all of 20 - [The right target for Aldeburgh](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-right-target-for-aldeburgh/) - By Ian Carnaby: Right Touch lost his pitch but stayed on strongly in the final furlong of the seven-furlong handicap at Goodwood - [Palace to make sure of survival](https://www.martenjulian.com/palace-to-make-sure-of-survival/) - By Ian Carnaby: I was pleased with a handy profit last week, Newcastle and Southampton bringing a net 40 points’ haul - [Newmarket Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/newmarket-reflections/) - All winter I was thinking and telling people that of Aidan O’Brien’s favourite for the 1,000 and 2,000 Guineas, I preferred the chance of Minding to Air Force Blue, despite the former being available to back until relatively recently at around 11/4 as opposed to the colt’s even-money. Yet for some reason I did not - [Manchester United can keep title race alive](https://www.martenjulian.com/manchester-united-can-keep-title-race-alive/) - By Ian Carnaby: Leicester are so close now to one of the biggest shocks in football history and many neutrals are willing them over the line in the Premier - [Steps will be ready for this](https://www.martenjulian.com/steps-will-be-ready-for-this/) - By Ian Carnaby: It was good to see You’re Fired winning a valuable handicap at Haydock. Karl Burke is always worth following in spring & we chalked up an 11/1. - [A Great Week Ahead](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-great-week-ahead/) - The 2015/16 Jumps Season reached a fitting climax at Sandown on Saturday when Paul Nicholls became a deserved winner of the trainers’ championship for the 10th time. This was a fine effort given that Paul’s best horse would probably not even figure in the top ten that Willie Mullins is able to call upon. The - [Swansea the big question mark in title battle](https://www.martenjulian.com/swansea-the-big-question-mark-in-title-battle/) - By Ian Carnabys: No one would dispute that Tottenham are the best team in the Premier League at the moment and on Monday evening Stoke were lucky to be sharing - [Nicholls can hold on for title](https://www.martenjulian.com/nicholls-can-hold-on-for-title/) - By Ian Carnaby: The winners that Nicholls and Willie Mullins have had since Ayr has left the situation much the same where the trainers’ championship is - [The Classic Picture](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-classic-picture/) - The race for the Jump Trainers’ Championship is set to go down to the wire this Saturday at Sandown when Willie Mullins and Paul Nicholls try to chase a massive sum of prize money. At the time of writing Paul Nicholls holds an advantage of £40,000 over Willie Mullins, but the title will surely be - [MILLWALL GOOD FOR A PLAY-OFF PLACE ROTHERHAM ON THE UP](https://www.martenjulian.com/millwall-good-for-a-play-off-place-rotherham-on-the-up/) - All three selections came up last week so I hope you had a profitable day. The Premier League title will not be decided this weekend but I think it fair to say Tottenham - who looked electric in the second half against Manchester United - cannot make it unless they take more from the trip - [VIVALDI COLLONGES THE NAP](https://www.martenjulian.com/vivaldi-collonges-the-nap/) - I cut right back on Crabbies Grand National bets when the ground changed and it was just as well. Saint Are ran well under the circumstances but could not go on in the closing stages and the task was always going to be too great for Many Clouds, especially when he made his one fairly serious - [Aintree Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/aintree-reflections/) - There were plenty of clues for the future to be found over the three days at Aintree. Although the betting opportunities were stifled in some races by very short-priced favourites, it was wonderful for visitors to Aintree to see some of the stars that had run at Cheltenham. Arzal looked very well and alert in - [MILLWALL GOOD FOR A PLAY-OFF PLACE](https://www.martenjulian.com/millwall-good-for-a-play-off-place/) - I suppose the way to look at last week’s vital Premier League fixtures is that Leicester probably did enough, in extending their lead over Tottenham to seven points, to lay one hand on the trophy. And yet, and yet. The narrow victory in a moderate game against Southampton (disappointing on the day) contrasted sharply with - [JOIN THE CLAN IS WORTH ANOTHER TRY](https://www.martenjulian.com/join-the-clan-is-worth-another-try/) - As I have written and spoken about the Crabbie’s Grand National at some length I shall not go into great detail again here. To me, the starting point has to be last year’s race and the close finish between MANY CLOUDS and SAINT ARE. Handicapper Phil Smith could give Many Clouds only a pound more - [The 2016 Golf Masters](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-2016-golf-masters/) - By Paul Day The Masters, the first golf major of the year, starts on Thursday on the majestic Augusta National course. It is the only major which is played on the same course every year. In my view this tournament is one of the best sporting events of the year. The whole organisation of the - [Enhanced services - introducing The Postscript](https://www.martenjulian.com/enhanced-services-introducing-the-postscript/) - As my regular blog readers may know this year for me is all about new ideas and offering a better service to our clients and utilising technology as much as possible. I had a meeting today with Marten and Steve about the service we offer to clients and the way people view our services. It - [SUNDERLAND MAY EDGE A STEP CLOSER TO SAFETY](https://www.martenjulian.com/sunderland-may-edge-a-step-closer-to-safety/) - This will be a fascinating weekend when it comes to the title race and relegation from the Premier League. I shall be in a small minority here but I not considet the former a two-horse race between Leicester and Tottenham - not just yet, anyway. Both face awkward games, Spurs away to Liverpool, who looked - [STAY WITH BURKE THIS WEEKEND](https://www.martenjulian.com/stay-with-burke-this-weekend/) - The Flat turf season begins in earnest on Saturday with the rescheduled Lincoln at Doncaster, preceded by the ‘consolation’ race, the Betway Spring Mile. Incidentally, while I understand the dismay in some quarters regarding Channel 4’s decision to give motor racing priority over the first big handicap of the new campaign, it is easy to - [All Eyes On Aintree](https://www.martenjulian.com/all-eyes-on-aintree/) - Having despatched the copy for my Dark Horses Annual to the Racing Post’s designer on Wednesday my mind now has to switch back to the jumps, with the next few days devoted to finding some value for the three-day Aintree meeting. Everything seemed to go according to plan for the Willie Mullins team at Cheltenham, - [MILLWALL SUDDENLY IN WITH A SHOUT](https://www.martenjulian.com/millwall-suddenly-in-with-a-shout/) - We made a small profit last week with Bristol City thrashing a hapless Bolton 6-0. 4/5 can sometimes look quite attractive when the game is all but over after half an hour and City had been threatening to give somebody a hiding at Ashton Gate. It’s tempting to look at the ‘minus one’ market in - [JOLIEVITESSE AN ABLE ALTERNATIVE](https://www.martenjulian.com/jolievitesse-an-able-alternative/) - Things improved on Friday with Alben Star paying out the fortnightly blog at 7/1. Richard Fahey is simply a master trainer and this horse is readied for the AW Sprint Championship every year with his form figures in the race now reading 121. I always knew that Man Of Harlech was a good deal better - [Cheltenham Report](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-report/) - Looking ahead to the 2015 Cheltenham Festival and our annually published services. - [Ian Carnaby's Racing News](https://www.martenjulian.com/ian-carnabys-racing-news/) - Note from Rebecca I just wanted to add a little blog entry to let you know that Ian Carnaby produces a fortnightly racing publication. It is emailed on a Wednesday and costs £5 per edition Discounts are available if you buy 5 or 10 editions. If you'd like to place an order please visit our - [Cheltenham Review](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-review/) - There was a time when my answer to anyone wanting to know what my guiding principle to winner finding was would be to follow a yard in form and, perhaps as important, avoid a yard out of form. Phil Bull, when asked the same question, used to say “the going and weight.” Well following the - [Cheltenham Reflections](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-reflections/) - There was a time when my answer to anyone wanting to know what my guiding principle to winner finding was would be to follow a yard in form and, perhaps as important, avoid a yard out of form. Phil Bull, when asked the same question, used to say “the going and weight.” Well following the - [Cheltenham Postscript](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-postscript/) - There was a time when my answer to anyone wanting to know what my guiding principle to winner finding was would be to follow a yard in form and, perhaps as important, avoid a yard out of form. Phil Bull, when asked the same question, used to say “the going and weight.” Well following the - [Southampton may edge closer to Europe here](https://www.martenjulian.com/southampton-may-edge-closer-to-europe-here/) - It took an easy victory for Everton at Carlisle to limit the damage last week although there were times during the afternoon when I thought the draws might pay off. In the end Liverpool and West Ham played out a dire 0-0 but the bet was already down. Otherwise I feel we have been in - [Swansea V Norwich looks tight](https://www.martenjulian.com/swansea-v-norwich-looks-tight/) - It was a pity to be denied the draw by Chelsea’s late winner at St Mary’s last week but there is no doubt the visitors deserved to win after enjoying any amount of possession in the second half. They are in very good form now with Willian pulling the strings and should account for Stoke, - [Title race not quite a two-horse affair](https://www.martenjulian.com/title-race-not-quite-a-two-horse-affair/) - The Premier League title will not be decided for a few weeks yet but it promises one of the best finishes in recent years. Interestingly, though Leicester are - [Sizing Coal looks a talented raider](https://www.martenjulian.com/sizing-coal-looks-a-talented-raider/) - It was probably possible to find someone paying out on the first four in the cross country, where Quantitativeeasing naturally - [Exhausted](https://www.martenjulian.com/exhausted/) - I know it's Cheltenham and therefore there is a lot of work to do but that I am used to. What I am not used to is (wait for it, I need to take a deep breath - [Latest Cheltenham News](https://www.martenjulian.com/latest-cheltenham-news/) - Hi there. It’s been a quiet morning regarding Cheltenham news, with the only update relating to Old Guard’s participation in the Champion Hurdle following what Paul Nicholls described as an “absolutely dire” piece of work on Saturday. The five-year-old, who has such a good record at the track, was one of the more popular outsiders - [We are responsive](https://www.martenjulian.com/we-are-responsive/) - By Rebecca Julian-Dixon We are truly responsive! Hooray. Obviously we try to respond to our clients whenever required. - [Bolton merely clinging on now](https://www.martenjulian.com/bolton-merely-clinging-on-now/) - Last week’s games may have been every bit as close as we expected but they didn’t end up as draws, which made for the poorest weekend in quite a while. - [Cobden's claim is so important on Alcala](https://www.martenjulian.com/cobdens-claim-is-so-important-on-alcala/) - Maybe I should have had the courage of my convictions regarding Sametegal at Newbury last week, though in fact the French challenger Pythagore also ran very - [Late Cheltenham News](https://www.martenjulian.com/late-cheltenham-news/) - Hi there I picked up a few snippets of news from working on the panel of the Cheltenham Preview evening at Cartmel racecourse last night. The most interesting came from Jimmy Moffatt, who said that Brian Hughes told him that Hawk High – the horse I gave favourable mention to earlier in the week – - [Ian's weekend news](https://www.martenjulian.com/ians-weekend-news/) - By Ian Carnaby: Vivaldi Collnges could not do it for us last week but I wouldn’t set too much store by the result at Warwick. - [THISTLECRACK LOOKS GOOD FOR ONE MORE](https://www.martenjulian.com/thistlecrack-looks-good-for-one-more/) - Vroum Vroum Mag did us a good turn last week but otherwise things were run of the mill and it’s hard to latch on to anything at great value this Saturday. Racing - and racing journalism - has changed significantly over the past few years. The Monday to Thursday fare just goes ahead in a - [Inspiration Needed!](https://www.martenjulian.com/inspiration-needed/) - I am not quite sure how I am going to approach this year’s Cheltenham Bulletin Book. Such is the dominance of Willie Mullins that for the main races it will be either a case of writing the obvious or stretching credibility to take one of his good things on. Douvan was imperious in today’s Grade - [Cheltenham Pointers](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-pointers/) - There are occasions in this game when everything, for a short while, seems to go right and that is what happened yesterday with Alan King, who landed a big-race hat-trick at Cheltenham and also took the Sky Bet Chase at Doncaster, having sent out the winner of the first race on the card there as - [Thoughts From The Panel](https://www.martenjulian.com/thoughts-from-the-panel/) - I was a guest of the Northern Racing Club on the panel of their Cheltenham Preview evening at Haydock Park last night. My fellow panellists were Brian Hughes, Andy Gibson and Trevor Harris of Star Sports Bookmakers. I have covered the bulk of our views in the Daily Communique - sent to my Cheltenham Package - [THERE SHOULD BE GOALS AT ST MARY’S](https://www.martenjulian.com/there-should-be-goals-at-st-marys/) - One of the most fascinating Premier League campaigns for years is entering its final phase and few would predict with any confidence how things will work out. Leicester can go clear again if they beat Norwich on Saturday and there may well be plenty of pressure on Arsenal if Tottenham account for Swansea on Sunday - [KINGS PALACE WORTH WATCHING](https://www.martenjulian.com/kings-palace-worth-watching/) - In some ways the most interesting runner on Saturday is David Pipe’s Kings Palace, who goes in the Pertemps Qualifier at Chepstow. Better known as a chaser these days, he was strongly fancied for the Paddy Power Gold Cup and started favourite but weakened quickly after running well to the top of the hill. He - [PERFECT CANDIDATE MAKES EACH-WAY APPEAL](https://www.martenjulian.com/perfect-candidate-makes-each-way-appeal/) - The telephone line continues to go well and we are a long way up since the turn of the year. As I am often saying, I’d like everything to work in synch and for there to be winners on this page as well. It can’t always happen and last week was rather disappointing, though there - [SHEFFIELD UNITED AT LAST?](https://www.martenjulian.com/sheffield-united-at-last/) - We were right about Swansea and Southampton last week but it was a patchy game and, although the Saints kept their winning run going, a draw would have been a fair result. I still think Swansea are in serious danger, though you might argue that Villa have nearly gone and Norwich are hovering over the - [BLACK CORTON WORTH BACKING AT A SHORT PRICE](https://www.martenjulian.com/black-corton-worth-backing-at-a-short-price/) - Haydock in heavy ground has never been my idea of the place to find winners and I shall give it a miss on Saturday, though you could argue that David Pipe’s Broadway Buffalo has a very fair chance in the Betfred Grand National Trial. He will not mind the ground, has had a good rest - [SWANSEA STILL IN ACUTE DANGER](https://www.martenjulian.com/swansea-still-in-acute-danger/) - SWANSEA STILL IN ACUTE DANGER Southampton and Newcastle both won narrowly last week and I think we’ve reached the stage where I should concentrate on that sort of analysis and leave the both teams to score bet alone. The problem is that you need three or four matches to supply goals in order to make - [L’AMI SERGE CAN DODGE THE BULLETS](https://www.martenjulian.com/lami-serge-can-dodge-the-bullets/) - L’AMI SERGE CAN DODGE THE BULLETS By and large I was pleased with last weekend, when Rivellino won the good sprint at Lingfield and Join The Clan finished a very good second in the staying hurdle at Sandown. He has already qualified for the Pertemps Final and that is definitely the race for him. He - [Rich Ricci's Insights](https://www.martenjulian.com/rich-riccis-insights/) - It was fascinating hearing Rich Ricci talking about his horses and other aspects of his life with Luke Harvey and Jason Weaver on ATR races last night. What did become clear is that he thinks Min is, in his words, the “wrong price” and he expects the horse to drift in the market near the - [The Mullins Factor](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-mullins-factor/) - Following my week away I returned to hear concerns that a few of Willie Mullins’ horses had been running below form. With a strike-rate in Ireland, as I write, of 40 per cent in bumpers, 38 per cent in hurdles and 28 per cent in chases there would not appear to be grounds for great - [ALBEN STAR WILL BE FITTER THIS TIME](https://www.martenjulian.com/alben-star-will-be-fitter-this-time/) - I hardly ever deliberately tip at odds-on for the simple reason that value is likely to be non-existent and, in any case, the horses in question can be spotted easily enough by everyone without outside help. I made an exception where Thistlecrack was concerned because I thought he might just about beat even money in - [REPLAYS MAY BE THE WAY FORWARD](https://www.martenjulian.com/replays-may-be-the-way-forward/) - It was a pity to blow out last week after virtually sweeping the board the week before. Of course, Gillingham and Peterborough both scoring limited the damage but Everton were expensive losers. When playing at a short price it is important to have absolutely everything in place. Where I went wrong with Everton was in - [The Race for TV Rights](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-race-for-tv-rights/) - By Joshua Mason: The race to show horse racing in the UK is over, and it was an easy win down the final straight for ITV. - [Everton unmissable here](https://www.martenjulian.com/everton-unmissable-here/) - By Ian Carnaby: It was a superb weekend for us last week with four of the five selections winning & even Middlesbrough’s surprising defeat at Bristol City still - [NEWCASTLE A VALUE BET TO STOP WEST HAM’S GALLOP](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-a-value-bet-to-stop-west-hams-gallop/) - The Premier League midweek games supplied plenty of goals, a good deal of controversy and also a ray of hope where Aston Villa and Sunderland are concerned. Also, by winning at Tottenham, Leicester put themselves in a very handy position for Champions League qualification at the very least. Sunderland, with Sam Allardyce vastly more experienced - [VIVALDI COLLONGES SHOULD APPRECIATE THIS STAMINA TEST](https://www.martenjulian.com/vivaldi-collonges-should-appreciate-this-stamina-test/) - Cogry could not keep our run going last week but, like so many in the Coral Welsh Grand National field, he failed to handle very heavy ground and was pulled up. I suppose you can always say that the winner, Mountainous, was not only 5lb lower than when winning two years ago but was also - [The Demise Of Ante-Post Betting?](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-demise-of-ante-post-betting/) - You can bump into some quite interesting discussions on the racing channels when things are quiet and there was one late this afternoon between Angus McNae and Tony Calvin about ante-post betting. I think we all now accept that ante-post betting is more a shop window for the big firms than what they call in - [FA CUP GOALS LIKELEY IN PREMIER CLASHES](https://www.martenjulian.com/fa-cup-goals-likeley-in-premier-clashes/) - West Brom v Stoke had the look of a banker draw about it last week so it was very disappointing when the home side scrambled in a winner deep into stoppage time. As I am always pointing out, there is no point in bemoaning things of this nature because they tend to even themselves out - [COGRY SHOULD SEE OUT THE NATIONAL TRIP](https://www.martenjulian.com/cogry-should-see-out-the-national-trip/) - I am very pleased with the way things are going at present. Polly Peachum ensured this page was in profit last weekend, while the telephone line is running at 100 percent after three selections in 2016 - Seeyouatmidnight, Polly Peachum and, on Friday and at long last, Rocket Rob. He was very well ridden by - [SHEFFIELD UNITED STILL THE CALL](https://www.martenjulian.com/sheffield-united-still-the-call/) - The Wigan v Sheffield United game was called off last week so we had no chance to monitor the Blades’ improved form. However, they have won again since and are on the fringes of the play-off places again now. They are not conceding and Nigel Adkins clearly has things very much to his liking now. - [Weekend News](https://www.martenjulian.com/weekend-news/) - There were some fine performances at Cheltenham on Friday, none better than Village Vic’s all-the-way victory in the big handicap chase. Raised 8lb for a similar effort at the last meeting, he again jumped particularly well, apart from an error at the second, and ran up the hill with great gusto. Clearly he has - [A Few Observations](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-few-observations/) - For me the highlight of the last few weeks has not been the performance of a horse or even the thoroughly well-deserved knighthood for AP McCoy. The person to have impressed me more than anyone is Nico de Boinville, who excelled in his handling of Coneygree – notably in last season’s Gold Cup – and - [A new site but who will notice?](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-new-site-but-who-will-notice/) - In January our website is being rebuilt however despite a huge amount of work and money I doubt anyone will notice. It is one of those weird things you have to do to ensure technology is working correctly for clients and to help us appear correctly in the search engines. We are making our website - [The end of 2015](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-end-of-2015/) - I am probably one of the rare folk that wishes Christmas lasted more than a day! Purely because the build up to it goes on for so long and then suddenly that's it over. The Marten Julian office used to close for the week prior to Christmas so staff could enjoy the build up but - [Sheffield United fair value at 5/2](https://www.martenjulian.com/sheffield-united-fair-value-at-52/) - As with the racing section it is hard to update over the Christmas period but there are few late things to consider. I am a little surprised that the bookmakers offer Arsenal at odds against in the televised match at St Mary’s on Boxing Night. As one who watches most of Southampton’s games, I can - [Sign of a victory may chase up Faugheen](https://www.martenjulian.com/sign-of-a-victory-may-chase-up-faugheen/) - Family commitments have made it hard to update over Christmas but here are a few thoughts for people looking for some late advice. The King George at Kempton is a fascinating affair but value towards the head of the market is very difficult to locate. One thing that does occur to me is that the - [Newcastle look banker material](https://www.martenjulian.com/newcastle-look-banker-material/) - We enjoyed a clean sweep last week with Norwich and Everton both scoring and Hull and Bristol Rovers both winning to provide a 13/10 double. They were both made to work harder than I expected but winners are winners. Like most people, I was surprised that Newcastle came from behind at Tottenham but there was - [Staying with Man Of Harlech](https://www.martenjulian.com/staying-with-man-of-harlech/) - I should probably have had the courage of my convictions with Village Vic at Cheltenham last week. The principals in the Paddy Power Gold Cup had clearly been given just that bit too much to do and were vulnerable to a lightly-weighted horse from a top yard. Philip Hobbs excelled himself here, going to Musselburgh - [Bitozapuzzle Something Special](https://www.martenjulian.com/368/) - You don’t often see horses prepared for handicaps the old-fashioned way these days, but Nicky Richards has stuck to many of the traditional methods adopted for so long by his late father Gordon and we saw further evidence of that today when Baywing landed a hat-trick over hurdles at Uttoxeter. The six-year-old, who was very - [One Of The Great Touches](https://www.martenjulian.com/one-of-the-great-touches/) - It was around 4.30 this morning that I submitted the text for my Winter Bulletin Book for layout in time to be with the printer on Monday. The book will then be back in our office ready for despatch to clients on Thursday. This is logistically quite a challenging operation – especially at this time - [King George Looks A Cracker](https://www.martenjulian.com/king-george-looks-a-cracker/) - I am busy at the moment working to meet the Saturday evening deadline for the Winter Bulletin Book. I have just finished updating the Dark Horses section and hope later to make a start on the preview of the King George VI Chase. This promises to be one of the most competitive renewals of recent - [The Winter Bulletin Book Beckons](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-winter-bulletin-book-beckons/) - I readily concede that I found it a struggle to write the Online Preview for Hennessy day. In the end, with almost 4,000 words completed, I felt that I would be lucky to make my clients a profit but, thankfully, the hours of work paid off in the end. I had taken a great liking - [Eastleigh the business here](https://www.martenjulian.com/eastleigh-the-business-here/) - Ian Carnaby's Sports News: Last week was a profitable one with goals arriving in the games between Bristol City & Hull, plus Sheffield Wednesday v Huddersfield. - [Saphir Du Rheu is all class](https://www.martenjulian.com/saphir-du-rheu-is-all-class/) - By Ian Carnaby: Baradari was a splendid winner at 12/1 for us last week. He was clearly on excellent terms with himself & continued Dan Skelton’s excellent run - [Quality Time For Top Honours](https://www.martenjulian.com/quality-time-for-top-honours/) - There has been an increasing trend to introduce useful sorts on the all-weather surface in the last two or three years – the Irish Derby winner and Epsom Derby runner-up Jack Hobbs is a case in point – and we have seen some very promising types appear on artificial surfaces in the last month or - [Bristol City can push Hull hard](https://www.martenjulian.com/bristol-city-can-push-hull-hard/) - Gillingham and Bury both scored in the opening 15 minutes last week to make the main bet safe. - [Baradari will be ready for this](https://www.martenjulian.com/baradari-will-be-ready-for-this/) - I must admit the main thing for the weekend was Jim Old’s Aldeburgh at Wolverhampton on Friday evening. Obviously you have to be happy with a profit for 8/1 - [Back To Form](https://www.martenjulian.com/back-to-form/) - I make no secret of the fact that the 2015 Flat Season was not one of my best, even though things started well last January when Golden Horn and Jack Hobbs headed my candidates for the Premier List of the Dark Horses. To be perfectly honest I never found my stride this summer, but I - [Ballyandy - A Future Star](https://www.martenjulian.com/ballyandy-a-future-star/) - Well it was always going to be an intriguing weekend and lovers of the game were not left disappointed, with a little shock on Sunday to keep us on our toes. Starting with the defeat at 1/6 of Faugheen in the Morgiana Hurdle, this was for me an example of how not being too close - [Gills and Bury can hit the target](https://www.martenjulian.com/gills-and-bury-can-hit-the-target/) - We fared quite well last week with both teams scoring in the north London derby and also in the Rotherham v Ipswich game. - [Un Temps worth chancing first time up](https://www.martenjulian.com/un-temps-worth-chancing-first-time-up/) - We stayed with Withernsea last weekend and he gave us a profitable final day at 8/1 as the 2015 turf Flat season drew to a close. - [Marten's Perspective: Opportunities For Backers](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-opportunities-for-backers/) - The bookmakers seem to be showing little signs of discernment in their response to the performances of this season’s leading Champion Hurdle contenders. - [Marten's Perspective: The Autumn Season](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-the-autumn-season/) - I have to say that of all the seasons, autumn is probably my favourite. The winters can be long, hard and miserable - [Marten's Perspective: Observations from Newmarket](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-observations-from-newmarket/) - It was hard to make notes for much of the time on 2,000 Guineas day with the horses being rugged up due to a cold wind and heavy showers. - [Marten's Perspective: A vintage crop of Novices Hurdlers…..](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-a-vintage-crop-of-novices-hurdlers/) - When trainers of the calibre of O’Neill, Mullins, Twiston-Davies and the vastly experienced Sherwood say that they have “one of the most - [Marten's Perspective: The All-Weather Programme – A Cheater’s Charter?](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-the-all-weather-programme-a-cheaters-charter/) - For those of us unable to enjoy the delights of a short break in the West Indies there would, at first sight, appear to be little to sustain our interest from the UK racing programme in the early weeks of the New Year. The weather invariably plays a part as far as the jumping fixtures - [Marten's Perspective: Racing – an owner’s experience](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-racing-an-owners-experience/) - The BHA recently published their ‘Fact Book’, which they believe provides ‘an invaluable & informative guide to some of the key numbers behind our great sport.’ - [Marten's Perspective: Barney Curley – An Insight into ‘The Master’](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-barney-curley-an-insight-into-the-master/) - Barney Curley is, in my view, by far and away the most intriguing man in racing. What is more, that has been the case for many years - [Marten's Perspective: Notable Gambles](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-notable-gambles/) - Last week I said I would bring to mind a few cases of touches landed by low-profile trainers which, on initial impressions, defied all logical explanation. - [Marten's Perspective: Ways of landing a touch](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-ways-of-landing-a-touch/) - It is generally assumed, especially among betting shop punters who are for the most part a cynical bunch, that if connections land a touch with a horse - [Marten's Perspective: Cheating: Commonplace or under control? (part 1)](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-cheating-commonplace-or-under-control-part-1/) - Without going into the semantics I think we can readily accept what we mean by cheating in the context of racing. - [Golden Investment - One For The Notebook](https://www.martenjulian.com/golden-investment-one-for-the-notebook/) - Coneygree defied the sceptics by running out an authoritative winner of the 188Bet Future Stars Chase on his return to action at Sandown this afternoon. I was one of a handful who thought the challenges of this demanding track could prove more than a test for the Gold Cup winner, but there was never really - [Marten's Perspective: Cheating: Commonplace or under control? (part 2)](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-cheating-commonplace-or-under-control-part-2/) - Last week I concluded that cheating, as interpreted within the rules of racing, probably did happen but on relatively few occasions. - [Tottenham on the up](https://www.martenjulian.com/tottenham-on-the-up/) - By Ian Carnaby: There are times to bet heavily when the value is there and we cleared 60 points last week by backing Tottenham at 4/9 to beat Aston Villa - [Staying with Withernsea](https://www.martenjulian.com/staying-with-withernsea/) - By Ian Carnaby: Last week I went for Withernsea at Newmarket and felt that he was unlucky for the second time this season. - [Marten's Perspective: How Good A Judge Am I?](https://www.martenjulian.com/how-good-a-judge-am-i/) - Judging by the prices at the recent Tattersalls Yearling Sales, the days when you could pick up a bargain are now long gone. - [Melbourne Cup Woe For Frankie](https://www.martenjulian.com/melbourne-cup-woe-for-frankie/) - I suppose it’s the way of things at the moment that my selection Max Dynamite should come home a fast-finishing and never-nearer second behind a 100/1 chance - [Observations From Carlisle](https://www.martenjulian.com/observations-from-carlisle/) - It proved quite informative yesterday at Carlisle, where there were some interesting long-term prospects on view. - [Jumping Moves Up A Gear](https://www.martenjulian.com/big-names-from-jumping-world/) - A few big names from the jumping world have entries this weekend, with the possibility that Gold Cup winner Coneygree may make the trip up the M6 - [Welcome](https://www.martenjulian.com/welcome/) - By Rebecca Julian-Dixon: I am genuinely close to some of the Marten Julian clients with regular phone calls, emails and text messages taking place - [Annoyed at myself](https://www.martenjulian.com/annoyed-at-myself/) - By Rebecca Julian-Dixon: I have even spoken to clients about it (Hello, you all know you are are) - [Frantically planning for Jumps](https://www.martenjulian.com/frantically-planning-for-jumps/) - By Rebecca Julian-Dixon: It is that time of year again when I find myself frantically planning the next six months as we prepare our brochure for the Jumps - [Happy New Year](https://www.martenjulian.com/happy-new-year/) - By Rebecca Julian-Dixon: Welcome back everyone. I say welcome back as from my perspective this is when the office gets back to ‘normal’ - [Hooray!](https://www.martenjulian.com/changes-to-our-site/) - By Rebecca Julian-Dixon: Just a little update to say hooray I did it. I have managed to edit and upload Marten's first ever Podcast. - [Online research into racehorses](https://www.martenjulian.com/online-research-into-racehorses/) - Over the past couple of years I have found lots of references to do with research into racehorses and I wonder if this is a new thing or whether lots has always been done but due to online media coverage it is easier to locate. Here are some of the articles I have found interesting - [Vardy the threat to Saints](https://www.martenjulian.com/vardy-the-threat-to-saints/) - By Ian Carnaby: We were cruelly denied in the 90th minute when Stevenage made it 3-3 at Exeter last week. - [Merry me still on the dark side](https://www.martenjulian.com/merry-me-still-on-the-dark-side/) - By Ian Carnaby: I am generally happy to let the Flat racing season go right through to the end before concentrating on National Hunt - [The right task for Withernsea](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-right-task-for-withernsea/) - By Ian Carnaby: One of the reasons there will always be bookmakers involves punters’ willingness to absorb setbacks and kick on again. - [Villa without a prayer here](https://www.martenjulian.com/villa-without-a-prayer-here/) - We were right about Tottenham at Bournemouth last week but a late goal at Anfield cost Liverpool victory against Southampton. I thought the Saints deserved a draw but Liverpool might have edged it if either Sturridge or Ings had been available. Jurgen Klopp will get things right there, though it may take most of this - [One to note](https://www.martenjulian.com/one-to-note/) - There is top-class action all over the place this weekend, on both sides of the Atlantic, but today my eye was drawn to the chasing debut of former top hurdler Garde La Victoire at Uttoxeter. The six-year-old was the best of these over hurdles, but this was still a fair event with the four-year-old Bristol - [Revised format of Newmarket Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/revised-format-of-newmarket-preview/) - I am leaving for Newmarket on Saturday morning to see the first two Classics of the season. I've just finished writing my Online Preview, well over 3,000 words - [Informative but frustrating at Newmarket](https://www.martenjulian.com/informative-but-frustrating/) - I have just returned from an informative but frustrating weekend at Newmarket. The feature of the meeting was the ground, which was as quick as I have known it. - [The topsy-turvy Derby market](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-topsy-turvy-derby-market/) - The topsy-turvy Derby market took another hit this afternoon when Highland Reel ran a fairly lifeless race in the Poule d'Essai des Poulains at Longcham - [Derby no clearer](https://www.martenjulian.com/derby-no-clearer/) - The Derby picture didn't really get any clearer today when Golden Horn, who does not currently hold an entry for Epsom, beat stable-companion Jack Hobbs - [Maiden race better than the norm](https://www.martenjulian.com/maiden-race-better-than-the-norm/) - Sometimes you see a maiden race that leaves you thinking it may be rather better than the norm, and for me this applied to the 1m 2f maiden run at Sandown on - [Breakfast with the Stars](https://www.martenjulian.com/breakfast-with-the-stars/) - I am not a great judge of work, but to my eyes Elm Park looked the least well-suited to Epsom's gradients, which is a surprise given his relatively compact - [Things went more according to plan](https://www.martenjulian.com/things-went-more-according-to-plan/) - Things went more according to plan in this afternoon's Prix du Jockey Club, when French 2,000 Guineas runner-up New Bay came with a strong late run - [Not a bad day but....](https://www.martenjulian.com/not-a-bad-day-but/) - It wasn't a bad day for clients with my two star bets winning - Code Red at 14/1 & Al Bandar at 3/1 but I would never have found the 50/1 Oaks winner Qualify - [Derby results & ante-post](https://www.martenjulian.com/derby-results-ante-post/) - I claim no plaudits for the fact that Golden Horn and Jack Hobbs – first and second in the Derby – made it to the Premier List section of my Dark Horses Annua - [Looking back over Goodwood](https://www.martenjulian.com/looking-back-over-goodwood/) - You won't go far wrong if you stay with these progressive types for the next season or two. - [Better quality late two-year-olds appearing](https://www.martenjulian.com/better-quality-late-two-year-olds-appearing/) - This is my favourite time of year, with the better quality late-developing two-year-olds starting to appear. - [Aidan O’Brien moving along?](https://www.martenjulian.com/aidan-obrien-moving-along/) - There have been persistent rumours in the last fortnight that Aidan O’Brien may be ready to move along and make way for someone else to take over at Ballydoyle. - [Newmarket](https://www.martenjulian.com/newmarket/) - I have just returned from a few days at Newmarket, racing on Saturday and then a couple of days at the sales earlier in the week. - [A quiet weekend](https://www.martenjulian.com/a-quiet-weekend/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [Stay with Bristol City here](https://www.martenjulian.com/stay-with-bristol-city-here/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [Emotionless is Godolphin's best for quite some time](https://www.martenjulian.com/emotionless-is-godolphins-best-for-quite-some-time/) - By Ian Carnaby. Things did not work out for me at Longchamp (except for Christophe Soumillon winning the closing handicap, of all things, on the German raider) - [Perspective: The True Significance Of Market Fluctuations](https://www.martenjulian.com/perspective-the-true-significance-of-market-fluctuations/) - Marten writes about The True Significance Of Market Fluctuations - [Marten's Perspective: The Joy of Jumping](https://www.martenjulian.com/martens-perspective-the-joy-of-jumping/) - Marten's Perspective: The Joy of Jumping - [Marten's Perspective: The Cloudy Classic Picture](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-cloudy-classic-picture/) - I cannot remember a more uncertain look to the Classic scene as we are facing this spring, with the markets dominated by horses that have protected their credentials by staying at home. For example, Gleneagles is now as short as 6/4 for the 2,000 Guineas despite not having run this season. The same comment applies - [Marten's Perspective: Autumn Musings](https://www.martenjulian.com/perspective-autumn-musings/) - Anyone who doubts the wondrous way nature works should sit back and ponder the seasons. Not just their variety and changeability, but their timing. - [Marten's Perspective: Non-Triers or Gamesmanship?](https://www.martenjulian.com/non-triers-or-gamesmanship/) - I am always on the watch for a ‘touch’ even though, these days, it is much harder to engineer them than in past days. The stewards are quick to ask the trainer for an explanation if a horse shows a significant improvement in form – especially if the money is down in a major way. - [Walsall may be worth watching from now on](https://www.martenjulian.com/walsall-may-be-worth-watching-from-now-on/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [Stephens overpriced at 33/1](https://www.martenjulian.com/stephens-overpriced/) - Ian Carnaby discusses the latest Wimbledon news. - [Spurs an early fancy](https://www.martenjulian.com/spurs-an-early-fancy/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football and Wimbledon. - [Blades are worthy favourites](https://www.martenjulian.com/blades-are-worthy-favourites/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [Time for a break?](https://www.martenjulian.com/time-for-a-break/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [United the big danger to Chelsea](https://www.martenjulian.com/united-the-big-danger-to-chelsea/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [Walsall can keep their run going](https://www.martenjulian.com/walsall-can-keep-their-run-going/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [Ipswich V Bristol City should yield goals](https://www.martenjulian.com/ipswich-v-bristol-city-should-yield-goals/) - Ian Carnaby discusses his thoughts on the weekend's football. - [Ground the key factor for Mecca's Angel](https://www.martenjulian.com/ground-the-key-factor-for-meccas-angel/) - Ground the key factor for Mecca's Angel - [Villa may have the edge again](https://www.martenjulian.com/villa-may-have-the-edge-again/) - I thought Novak Djokovic held a strong favourite’s chance against Roger Federer in the US Open Final and I hope you made it pay - [This promises to be a great weekend.](https://www.martenjulian.com/this-promises-to-be-a-great-weekend/) - I have always loved Arc weekend. I don't get to Longchamp much these days, but I have been very lucky in the big race itself, going back to 1981 when I tipped - [Arc - quick ground & extraordinary self-belief](https://www.martenjulian.com/arc-quick-ground-extraordinary-self-belief/) - Looking back briefly to yesterday’s Arc the race was all about two things – the quick ground and the extraordinary self-belief of Frankie Dettori. - [Man of Harlech can have them singing in the valleys](https://www.martenjulian.com/man-of-harlech-can-have-them-singing-in-the-valleys/) - I was quite pleased with the way things worked out last week, although it was a pity George Bowen could not quite get past stable-companion Tatlisu in the Ayr Silver Cup. We have made the point several times that it’s important to be out and about, or on the telephone, making sure of the best - [Another chance for Taajub](https://www.martenjulian.com/another-chance-for-taajub/) - At Ascot I shall wait until the last, where old TAAJUB has yet another chance. His supporters must be at their wits’ end - [The US Open – Men’s Singles Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-us-open-mens-singles-preview/) - The final tennis major starts today at the Billie Jean King Tennis Centre in Flushing, New York - [Autumn racing essential viewing](https://www.martenjulian.com/autumn-racing-essential-viewing/) - There are a few days in the autumn racing programme which are essential viewing, and St Leger and Arc trials weekend must rank top of the list. - [George Bowen on the up](https://www.martenjulian.com/george-bowen-on-the-up/) - It has been another difficult week, though bets have been kept to a minimum. I came closer to catching another of Richard Fahey’s on the line when El Viento - [Enjoy the weekend.](https://www.martenjulian.com/enjoy-the-weekend-i-am-away/) - I could probably have chosen a quieter weekend to spend a few days away, but I have a long-standing engagement in Verona on Saturday evening to celebrate Alex and my Ruby Wedding anniversary. I have, at last, come to a view on the St Leger but with so much uncertainty over the chance of rain - [Djokovic in stunning form](https://www.martenjulian.com/djokovic-in-stunning-form/) - If someone had told me that defending champion Marin Cilic would take only three games against Novak Djokovic in their US Open semi-final, I’d have advised him to take more water with it. However, the Serb was in magnificent form and is clearly living up to his ranking as the best player in the world. - [Pixeleen still in good form](https://www.martenjulian.com/pixeleen-still-in-good-form/) - The only high spot this week was Heartsong winning again at Brighton. She has been a good source of profit on the line, though the 6/4 after her 10/1 success at Chepstow was rather disappointing. The handicapper will make things very hard for her now but John Gallagher will be happy enough. His small yard - [Looking back at Goodwood](https://www.martenjulian.com/looking-back-at-goodwood/) - Looking back over Goodwood the three horses I would bring to your attention are all three-year-olds. I confidently expect Dartmouth to be competing in Group races this time next year. It is rare for Sir Michael Stoute to talk so highly of one of his horses after a race, but this son of Dubawi was - [Frustrating things](https://www.martenjulian.com/frustrating-things/) - One of the most frustrating things for a serious backer, especially one who is looking more towards the long term, is a sudden or unexpected change in the ground. We have had plenty of occasions in recent years when that has happened, exacerbated sometimes by clerks of the course trying to ensure the ground doesn't - [Everything has changed](https://www.martenjulian.com/everything-has-changed/) - The Qatari influence was everywhere at Goodwood, the term ‘Glorious’ has vanished and everything has changed. Even so, I must say that last week’s was just about the most enjoyable spectacle on the Sussex Downs I have ever experienced. There was Frankie Dettori continuing his tremendous surge (with the Qataris themselves chalking up several winners), - [Pallasator worth another try](https://www.martenjulian.com/pallasator-worth-another-try/) - We are enjoying an extended family holiday in Canada but I’ve been trying to keep an up-to-date service running on all Marten Julian fronts. I was very happy with Desert Law on the telephone line the other evening but, from what I read, Mark Johnston’s Muhadathat was totally checked in his run at Newbury on - [Glorious Goodwood can be frustrating](https://www.martenjulian.com/glorious-goodwood-can-be-frustrating/) - Glorious Goodwood which, for all its glamour and attraction as a spectacle, can prove deeply frustrating for serious backers. - [Ranieri has quite a task on here](https://www.martenjulian.com/ranieri-has-quite-a-task-on-here/) - We are just considering possible changes to the overall service and it may well be that racing takes precedence over anything else. In fact, the Friday evening slot has not favoured other sports anyway of late and it is not quite time to make detailed football selections. In the Premier League I think Manchester united - [Don't call me should not be ignored](https://www.martenjulian.com/dont-call-me-should-not-be-ignored/) - Ian discussing Mark Johnston some interesting bookings around the country. - [Catching up with news](https://www.martenjulian.com/catching-up-with-news/) - An update from Marten after his break. Looking ahead to Goodwood and discussing Ryan Moore, Golden Horn & a horse that caught his eye. - [Stay with Master Of Finance](https://www.martenjulian.com/stay-with-master-of-finance/) - I seldom have much to say on the effect of the draw. In sprint races we know where we need to be at most courses and I have little time for all the pontificating when it comes to contests over two miles plus. Even so, there is no doubt that low numbers were favoured in - [Master of finance another likely Johnston sort](https://www.martenjulian.com/master-of-finance-another-likely-johnston-sort/) - Eye Of The Storm duly won the Coral Marathon at Sandown for my friend George Materna last week. He has been waiting for a horse to compete at Pattern level and this one-eyed individual was well bought out of Aidan O’Brien’s stable. He will need to be genuine Group 2 class to have a chance - [Huntsmans Close a likely Wokingham sort](https://www.martenjulian.com/huntsmans-close-a-likely-wokingham-sort/) - I am rarely pleasantly surprised by the SP of favourites in big races on Saturdays. - [I have never looked forward to Royal Ascot so much](https://www.martenjulian.com/looking-forward-to-royal-ascot/) - I have never looked forward to a Royal Ascot meeting as much as next week, but my final selections will be very dependent on the state of the ground. - [Looking back at Royal Ascot](https://www.martenjulian.com/looking-back-at-royal-ascot/) - Looking back at Royal Ascot last week my overall verdict would be that it was challenging. from a betting perspective, but a great success for the occasion. - [Radwanska steady enough to account for Bencic](https://www.martenjulian.com/radwanska-steady-enough-to-account-for-bencic/) - Ian Carnaby's Wimbledon 2015 news - [Shore Step still on the up](https://www.martenjulian.com/shore-step-still-on-the-up/) - Ian Carnaby's horse racing news. - [The Wimbledon Mens’ Singles Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-wimbledon-mens-singles-preview/) - By Paul Day Wimbledon, tennis’ most prestigious tournament, starts on Monday in the beautiful grounds of the All England Tennis and Croquet Club situated in London SW19. If you are lucky enough to enjoy a day at Wimbledon, it is a privilege to be able to watch some of the world’s best at such close - [The 2015 US Open Golf Championship](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-2015-us-open-golf-championship/) - By Chris Clarke The US Open is traditionally the hardest golfing test of the year. Par is often considered to be a viable winning score and the courses chosen tend to be long and have firm testing greens. With a wide range of classic courses to choose from, it came as a surprise to many - [POLLY PEACHUM CAN BEAT THE BOYS](https://www.martenjulian.com/polly-peachum-can-beat-the-boys/) - Watching Channel 4 Racing on Friday, I wondered if there is any point in opposing John Gosden when he is in this sort of form early in the season. His horses go in like clockwork and he is now the leading light at Newmarket, capable of attacking on a much broader front than Sir Michael - [Hooray hooray - another Podcast!](https://www.martenjulian.com/hooray-hooray-another-podcast/) - Marten and his racing assistant Jodie are recording have recorded a Podcast this week looking back to Aintree. Checkout our Podcast by visiting our Podcasts Page - [The National](https://www.martenjulian.com/the-national/) - Cheltenham and Aintree are now both over and I start to concentrate on the Flat season. I have spent the past couple of weeks updating the site while going through a rebuild to enhance the experience for our web visitors. We have a new blog system being installed to enable visitors to scroll back and - [Paul Day's 2015 Masters Preview](https://www.martenjulian.com/archive/) - Paul Day's 2015 Masters Update The 9th of April sees the start of the world’s greatest golf tournament, The Masters, played on the truly magnificent Augusta National Course. The course will be manicured to perfection and you can be sure the whole setting will be perfectly prepared; no stone is left unturned as they ensure - [Paul Day's 2015 Masters Update](https://www.martenjulian.com/paul-days-2015-masters-update/) - The Preview was written just prior to the final two PGA events, the Valero Texas Open and the Shell Houston Open, which precede The Masters. There follows an Update to include important news and respond to the form shown in these two tournaments. The most significant news is that Tiger Woods has announced he will - [Changes and development](https://www.martenjulian.com/changes-and-development/) - What a busy couple of weeks I have had. I got Marten ready for a new computer to be installed. Anyone who uses their computer on a regular basis will appreciate it is a nerve wracking time especially when your system holds a huge amount of data to be transferred. The day arrived last Monday - [Racing Diary](https://www.martenjulian.com/racingdiary/) - Cheltenham Festival 2015 Most pundits will be taking the view that this year's Cheltenham Festival is dominated by Willie Mullins' stable and that his favourites, notably on the first day, will be hard to oppose. I see this as a tremendous opportunity, with bookmakers becoming increasingly competitive in their offers to backers and each-way value - [MOORE WORTH FOLLOWING AT LINGFIELD](https://www.martenjulian.com/moore-worth-following-lingfield/) - Sometimes you know you won’t be bothering with a horse again and that was the way of it with Sign Of A Victory in the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton last Saturday. This was his second very poor effort in a row and it would seem that he has gone backwards, though no doubt one or ## Pages - [Home New](https://www.martenjulian.com/) - Expert horse racing analysis, selections and insights from Marten Julian and his team. In-depth racing advice, Racehorse Database, publications and daily updates. - [Marten Julian Daily Analysis](https://www.martenjulian.com/private-consultancy-daily-communique/) - Daily Racing Analysis by Marten Julian Clients who join Marten’s Complete Service can view Marten’s daily analysis of the racing on this page. As a subscriber to this service you also receive his analysis via email as well as every publication we produce throughout the season. Complete Service clients are invited to enhance their subscription - [Books & Publications](https://www.martenjulian.com/books-publications/) - Marten Julian has been delivering knowledgeable, authoritative and high-quality views, advice and information for well over 40 years - [Major Race Meetings](https://www.martenjulian.com/major-race-meetings/) - The Marten Julian service produces and publishes Online Previews for many of the major meetings throughout the racing year. - [FAQs](https://www.martenjulian.com/faqs/) - FAQs Q: What’s the difference in your Services? A: Marten’s analysis is released daily via email, telephone line (normal call charge by subscription) and premium rate line where callers pay per minute. It’s all the same information just various options to suit clients. If you have further queries it’s sometimes easier to talk (01539 741 - [The Racehorse Database](https://www.martenjulian.com/get-the-racehorse-database/) - THE RACEHORSE DATABASE The Racehorse Database is your go-to resource for insights and expert analysis from Marten and his team, presented in an intuitive and easy-to-navigate format: Declared Runners: Quickly access horses noted by Marten and the team with just a click. Go to the Tags menu, select Declared Horses, and explore a chronological list of declared entries - [Cheltenham Festival](https://www.martenjulian.com/cheltenham-festival/) - Expert Cheltenham 2026 previews, race analysis, and daily tips. Get the best insights from Marten Julian and his team for this year’s Festival! - [About Us](https://www.martenjulian.com/about-us/) - Marten Julian has been involved with horse racing for over forty years, founding the Professional Sporting Bureau... - [Gambling Responsibly](https://www.martenjulian.com/gambling-responsibly/) - Gambling Responsibly We are aware that not all our clients place bets, but for those who do, we encourage them to gamble responsibly. Some of our services contain references to tips, selections, laying horses and analysis. These comments are only suitable for individuals of legal betting age in the country where they reside. Our services - [Terms and Conditions](https://www.martenjulian.com/terms-and-conditions/) - Marten Julian Terms & Conditions Horse racing and gambling thereon are high risk activities. There is no guarantee that a client will recover any part of his subscription or outlay when placing bets pursuant to information provided. 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We are keen to work with book shops, racecourse and other outlets - [Point To Point Jumps 2019/20 Updates](https://www.martenjulian.com/point-to-point-jumps-2019-20-updates/) - [Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2019/20](https://www.martenjulian.com/dark-horses-jumps-2019-20/) - [Chat](https://www.martenjulian.com/chat/) - [rumbletalk-chat hash="ig:PEIA4"] - [Contact](https://www.martenjulian.com/contact/) - If there is anything you would like to discuss with Marten or members of his staff, please complete the form on this page. - [Home](https://www.martenjulian.com/home/) - Welcome to the Marten Julian Homepage featuring our news and information. - [Dark Horse Annual (Companion) Autumn 2019](https://www.martenjulian.com/dark-horse-annual-companion-autumn-2019/) - [Dark Horse Annual (Companion) 2019](https://www.martenjulian.com/dark-horse-annual-companion-2019/) - [Online Chat](https://www.martenjulian.com/online-chat/) - Marten's Online Chats Subscribers to our Online Chats get the chance to have a one-hour discussion online with Marten. A maximum of four places are available for each session and you can either ask Marten questions or sit back as an observer and watch what everyone else in your session has to say. There is - [PCS Flat 2019](https://www.martenjulian.com/pcs-flat-2019/) - [Point To Point Jumps 2018/19 Updates](https://www.martenjulian.com/point-to-point-jumps-2018-19-updates/) - [PCS](https://www.martenjulian.com/pcs/) - Welcome to The Personal Consultancy Service Area "Just paid online for my renewal for the Flat season, it really enhances my enjoyment of the season" A.B As a subscriber to Marten's PCS, you are receiving direct access to Marten and his information. Rebecca is the Personal Account Manager for this service and you can contact - [Register](https://www.martenjulian.com/register/) - If you don't already have an account you can create one when making your first purchase. Just add an item to your cart and enter a password when completing the purchase in the checkout. 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If you currently enjoy ## Banners - [WC out now](https://www.martenjulian.com/hp_banner/wc-out-now/) - [Chelt Package one week to go](https://www.martenjulian.com/hp_banner/chelt-package-one-week-to-go/) - [Cheltenham Package](https://www.martenjulian.com/hp_banner/cheltenham-package/) - [Marten Julian sale](https://www.martenjulian.com/hp_banner/marten-julian-sale/) ## Products - [Point-To-Point Recruits 2026/27 (Hard Copy)](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/point-to-point-recruits-2026-27/) - Jodie Standing’s Point-to-Point Recruits is now in its eighth year and has firmly established itself as an essential guide for gaining an advantage on the National Hunt scene, especially in the novice hurdle and bumper divisions. Leaving no stone unturned, Jodie provides a comprehensive analysis of each of the featured horses, many of whom most punters or racing enthusiasts will not see until they make their Rules debuts this season for their new connections, having either been sold through the sales ring or via private deals. This book not only focuses on the horses that have sold for big money, but also sheds light on the less obvious ones and those that have gone to lower-profile yards. With Jodie’s analysis, readers can expect to learn how each horse performed in their respective races, while also discovering their characteristics, running styles, pedigrees, optimal conditions, and new connections. - [York Ebor Package 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/york-ebor-package-2026/) - Includes Marten's Daily Bulletin starting on Wednesday Text Message from Marten Weekend Bulletin for Friday to Sunday News from Marten Julian & Dan Briden Option to add on our Racehorse Database Option to add on The Weekend Bulletin for the coming weekend or the remainder of the season - [The Daily Bulletin Service - Flat Season 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-daily-bulletin-service-flat-season-2026/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day's racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service - The Daily Bulletin Service. You can log in each day of the 2026 Flat Season and download Marten's analysis. You will also receive a complimentary email each day. Available by noon each day. From week beginning 10 August up to and including Sunday 8 November 2026, you will be able to read and enjoy Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. Feel free to email Rebecca with any queries about this service. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 21 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-21-august/) - With the York Ebor meeting in full swing, this Weekend Bulletin enjoys both the action from Friday and Saturday with the highlight being the Ebor itself. We also have competitive cards at Newmarket, Chester and Salisbury. Worcester and Newton Abbot are the summer jumps fixtures on Saturday and Sunday. This Weekend Bulletin covers the Friday and Saturday of the York Ebor fixture. - [Complete Service Flat 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/complete-service-flat-2026/) - What you receive: Marten's Daily Bulletin until 8 November 2026 (inc major meetings & weekends) A daily text message summarising Marten's selections and horses of interest Jodie Standing & Dan Briden's Flat Journal Jodie Standing's Weekend Bulletin Racehorse Database The option to email Marten with your horse racing queries. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 14 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-14-august/) - With the York Ebor just around the corner, this weekend sees a packed programme of racing at Newbury, Newmarket, Doncaster, Epsom, Thirsk, Yarmouth and Bath among other Flat courses. The summer jumpers are in action at Perth and Market Rasen. In this weekend's Weekend Bulletin we welcome back Dan Briden who stands in while Jodie Standing is away. Marten writes: “Following last weekend’s successes, with Eabha 15/2, Minster Man 3/1, Red Spells Danger 2/1 and two placed horses from just five selections, I have a surprisingly wide range of informed news for the forthcoming weekend, starting at Thirsk and Newmarket on Friday and extending to Pontefract on Sunday. It could be quite busy for us.” - [Flat Journal](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/flat-season-horse-racing-journal-2026/) - Jodie and Dan will keep you informed through the Flat Journal, in which they highlight and share opinions on horses that have caught their attention. They will also look ahead to key entries that catch their eyes. Please note that this service isn't emailed; it can be downloaded from an online account. Jodie writes: "This week’s Flat Journal comes in at just over 3,000 words, offering a comprehensive look back at the Goodwood and Galway Festivals alongside a host of other notable performances that caught the eye. I also take a look ahead to the coming days, with some quality racing to look forward to, particularly towards the end of the week." In the 29 June edition Dan Briden highlighted 25 of the most interesting two‑year‑olds to follow for the remainder of the season. This edition is always available to download whenever you join us this season. This publication is published fortnightly, dates are shown below. Extracts from 4 May edition: "It would come as no surprise to see him develop into a candidate for a race like the Queen’s Vase. He holds an entry in the extended 12f maiden at Chester this Friday." “She didn’t really know her job early on, but once she warmed to the task she stayed on strongly and shaped like a filly with a future.” “He’s on a winning mark and should be monitored, especially back at a track where he’s already won three times.” - [Flat Journal Postal](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/flat-journal-horse-racing-2026-postal/) - Jodie and Dan will keep you informed through the Flat Journal, in which they highlight and share opinions on horses that have caught their attention. They will also look ahead to key entries that catch their eyes. Ideal for those who enjoyed our Weekend Card. This service is posted First Class on a Monday. Subscribers are also welcome to log in and download it from their online account. In the 29 June edition Dan Briden highlighted 25 of the most interesting two‑year‑olds to follow for the remainder of the season. This edition is always available to download whenever you join us this season. This publication is published fortnightly, dates are shown below. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 7 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-7-august/) - It's Shergar Cup Day at Ascot on Saturday while at Newmarket there's Group 3 action with the Solero Stakes. At Haydock we have the Listed Dick Hern and the Group 3 Rose And Lancaster Stakes. Jodie's news for Sunday is available to download now. Jodie writes: "Although it’s a fairly quiet weekend after the business of Goodwood and Galway, I still have something of interest for us at both Haydock and Ascot, and in Ireland I’m particularly looking forward to a dark horse with a winning profile that I’ve unearthed over the jumps. On Sunday there are appealing races in both France and Ireland, where I’ll be aiming to dig out a little bit of value." Marten writes: “Shergar Cup weekend is not to everyone’s taste, but I have been pleasantly surprised to have found plenty to write about on today’s busy programme, with unexposed talent and a couple of selections with top speed figures for us to back. There may also be something interesting on Sunday, ground permitting.” - [Telephone & Text Service Flat 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/telephone-text-service-flat-2026/) - Access to Marten's daily analysis via his Telephone & Text Service. Listen to an audio recording each day on a 03 number via a personal pin number. Marten will also send you a text message each day to your mobile phone summarising horses of interest. From week beginning 3 August up to and including Sunday 8 November 2026, you will be able to read and enjoy Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. The same information is available in an email format. Click here to view. - [Weekend Bulletins Package Flat 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletins-package-flat-2026/) - Please note this is for the remainder of the Flat season so 13 weekends of action and saves £50! At checkout clients can opt to use PayPal pay in three or Klarna. Marten Julian and Jodie Standing team up to deliver our Weekend Bulletin! Clients receive six publications. Available to download through your online account with a complimentary email sent directly to your inbox. Read and enjoy the day's analysis covering Friday to Sunday every weekend up to and including 6 November. Includes coverage of the following major meetings: York Ebor, Doncaster St Leger, Newmarket, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe & Ascot Champions' Day. - [The Racehorse Database](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-racehorse-database-1-month/) - The Racehorse Database is your resource for insights and expert analysis from Marten and his team, presented in an intuitive and easy-to-navigate format. Accessed from a computer, phone or tablet just log in and have full access to our database. Featuring information from Marten & Jodie Standing with guest entries from Dan Briden. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 31 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-31-july/) - The Panama hats will be on full display this week at Glorious Goodwood, while over in Ireland the Guinness will be flowing at the Galway Festival. With a packed programme on offer on both sides of the Irish Sea, come and join us for what promises to be one of the highlights of the summer. This Weekend Bulletin covers the Friday and Saturday of Glorious Goodwood. Jodie writes: “There’s something for everyone this weekend as top-class action continues at the Galway and Goodwood Festivals. I have my eye on several runners across both meetings, including one with an intriguing jockey booking in Goodwood’s notoriously difficult Golden Mile, plus a Saturday runner dropping back in trip who looks poised to return to their best. At Galway, I have a view on a few races, including a pair of ex-pointers who catch the eye.” - [The Daily Bulletin Service](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-daily-bulletin-service-one-week/) - Marten writes: ‘The weather is set to be fair for each of the five days of Glorious Goodwood and already it promises to feature some great clashes, notably in Wednesday’s Sussex Stakes when Gstaad will be trying to reverse 2000 Guineas and St James’s Palace Stakes form with Bow Echo. The race is expected to see the return of Zavateri, in what promises to be a tactical thriller. On Thursday Diamond Necklace will be odds-on to beat See The Fire and Friendly Soul while the highlight on the first day will be the return of Scandinavia, who will be trying to confirm his Gold Cup superiority over Trawlerman and Rahiebb, with Lazy Griff joining them from the north. I already have a strongly-fancied two-year-old for one of the nurseries and a couple of handicappers who, draw permitting, have been saved specifically for this meeting. Join me for the week! Our Weekend Bulletin includes news from Jodie for Friday, Saturday and Sunday for elsewhere, including Galway. You can add this on for an additional £10.’ When it comes to horse racing advisory services, time is the ultimate judge of success. And after more than 55 years of providing expert insights and top-quality advice, Marten Julian has definitely stood the test of time. His views are always informed, authoritative, and above all, valuable. But what really sets Marten apart is his unique perspective. You won’t get the same old clichéd opinions and predictable selections that you’ll find everywhere else. Instead, you’ll benefit from his original thinking and the unparalleled depth of his knowledge and experience. So, if you’re looking for a distinctive voice of expertise to guide you in the world of racing, look no further than The Daily Bulletin Service. You will receive an email by noon each day for one week starting the day of your order providing Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. Samples are available below. We also offer this service for the individual meetings or for the whole season. See our shop for more details. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 24 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-24-july/) - We're back at Ascot this weekend for Group 1 action with the King George, while Chester, York, Sandown, Newcastle and Salisbury put on competitive racing as we build up to Glorious Goodwood. Uttoxeter stages two valuable fixtures on their Sunday card. Marten writes: "We are going to be treated to one of the most prestigious fields in recent years for the King George and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. At the time of writing the market is headed by last year’s winner Calandagan, who will be trying to give his trainer Francis Graffard a third consecutive victory in the race following the success two years ago of Goliath, who also makes the line-up. Masquerade Ball and Wurttemberg have embarked on the long trip over from Japan, with the former trying to reverse Japan Cup form with Calandagan, where he went down by just a head. Aidan O’Brien’s Benvenuto Cellini, winner of the Irish Derby, has attracted the money in the last few days and he will be joined by stable-companions Minnie Hauk, Action and last year’s dual-Derby winner Lambourn. Kalpana, beaten a length in last year’s race, completes this truly International field. The support card is worthy of the great race, with a couple of Group 3 contests and a relatively short-priced favourite for the traditionally competitive 7f Class 2 handicap. I already have news for elsewhere and expect to hear something for York." - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 23 Oct](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-23-oct/) - This product is still being updated. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 6 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-6-november/) - This product is still being updated. Join us for out Flat Season Finale. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 16 Oct](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-16-oct/) - This product is still being updated. This edition covers Ascot Champions Day now referred to as QIPCO British Champions Day. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 9 Oct](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-9-oct/) - This product is still being updated. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 2 Oct](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-2-oct/) - This product is still being updated. This edition covers the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 25 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-25-september/) - This product is still being updated. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 28 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-28-august/) - With double-headers at Goodwood, featuring the Celebration Mile, and Sandown, featuring the Solario Stakes, plus a packed Bank Holiday programme from Cartmel, Windsor, Beverley — including the Beverley Bullet — Sedgefield, Ffos Las and elsewhere, there should be something for everyone in this Weekend Bulletin. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 4 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-4-september/) - It's Group 1 Sprint Cup time at Haydock this weekend, while Ascot and York put on competitive cards. Add in jumps action at Fontwell, Stratford, Bangor and Worcester, it makes for a well-rounded programme of racing. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 11 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-11-september/) - With the St Leger taking centre stage on Saturday, all eyes are on Doncaster and their three-day extravaganza. We also have racing at Chester, Bath, Lingfield, Sandown and Salisbury. This Weekend Bulletin covers the Friday and Saturday of the Doncaster St Leger. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 18 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-18-september/) - This product is still being updated. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 17 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-17-july/) - Newbury and the Weatherbys Sprint Trophy takes centre stage on Saturday, while Cartmel and Market Rasen come in strong with their competitive summer jumps meetings, which includes the £100,000 Summer Plate. Over in Ireland, we have Group 1 action at the Juddmonte Irish Oaks two-day meeting at the Curragh. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 10 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-10-july/) - With the Newmarket July Festival in full swing, this weekend we are spoilt for choice with the sprinters lining up for the Group 1 July Cup on Saturday, while on Friday we have the fillies in action for the Falmouth Stakes, amongst many other highly competitive and season-defining races. We also have two-day meetings at Ascot, Chester and York, while the summer jumpers are satisfied with action at Perth and Stratford. What a weekend! Both Marten and Jodie's analysis for Friday can be downloaded instantly after ordering. This Weekend Bulletin covers part of the July Cup meeting at Newmarket. Marten writes: “It’s Super Saturday this weekend, with the Bunbury Cup and Group 1 July Stakes at Newmarket and the John Smith’s Cup at York. There is also top-class action at Ascot and an interesting card at Chester. I have had a horse in mind for the Bunbury Cup for a while and I also have strong news for a progressive horse declared to run on Friday. This is one of the best Saturdays of the season.” Jodie writes: “It feels as though we’re back with a bang this weekend, with the action cranking up noticeably after a quieter spell. There’s plenty to discuss tomorrow and I’ve come down on a couple of selections, with cases made for a few more. On Saturday, a handicapper looks ready to continue his upward progression, while on Sunday I’m hoping to find us a bit of value over the jumps.” - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 30 Oct](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-30-oct/) - This product is still being updated. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 26 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-26-june/) - All eyes are on the Curragh for the Irish Derby, and we have Ronan Groome on hand with his in-depth findings. The action doesn’t stop there as Newcastle lines up the Northumberland Plate, Cartmel brings its trademark summer jumping charm on Friday and Sunday, and Uttoxeter’s Summer Cup adds a lucrative highlight. A cracking mix of Flat and Jumps racing for every fan. Friday's analysis can be downloaded instantly after ordering. Current price of £15 is for Saturday and Sunday. Marten writes: “It’s a mixed bag of racing this weekend, with the Northumberland Plate at Newcastle on Saturday and the Irish Derby at the Curragh on Sunday. Neither race looks straightforward, with uncertainty over the state of the ground following this spell of extreme heat. We have meetings at Cartmel on Friday and Sunday, with plenty of local interest, and I have news for a highly-regarded two-year-old debutant at one of the lower-profile fixtures.” Jodie writes: "Despite the searing heat, we’ve got a fascinating day in store at Cartmel tomorrow where a couple of horses have really caught my eye as ones who could be much better than their recent form suggests. On Saturday, I’ll be making the case for a Newcastle runner whose form lines I’ve followed closely, before we return to Cartmel on Sunday with several more fancies to get stuck into. I may also have something for us over at the Curragh." - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 19 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-19-june/) - Royal Ascot is in full swing, and this week’s Weekend Bulletin brings you the final two days of top‑class action. Away from Ascot, there’s strong support across the country with competitive cards at Newmarket, Haydock, Doncaster and Redcar. Summer jumping fans are well catered for too, with Market Rasen and Hexham keeping the show on the road. This Weekend Bulletin covers the Friday & Saturday of Royal Ascot. Jodie writes: "Royal Ascot is not the only focus this weekend. On Saturday, I have interesting runners at Ayr and Doncaster, and on Sunday at Hexham, a couple of entries have caught my eye. I’ll also be sharing my views on the Royal meeting, including a two-year-old from an in-form team who is priced at around 20/1." - [Royal Ascot Trends 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/royal-ascot-trends-2026/) - Our Royal Ascot Trends booklet for 2026 brings together the key historical trends, trainer patterns, draw biases and race-by-race angles for the most competitive Flat meeting of the year. Produced in the style of our Cheltenham and Aintree guides, it delivers the same high-quality approach to race analysis — but with the very different demands of Flat racing firmly in mind. Across five days, the Royal Ascot meeting combines Group 1 championship races, fiercely competitive handicaps, two-year-old races packed with potential and staying contests such as the Gold Cup. Our guide will help you make sense of each different type of race. Rather than simply listing stats for the sake of it, we’ve focused on the angles that can help you build a better shortlist: The types of horses that are historically suited to each race The trainer patterns worth noting, plus the draw and pace factors that can matter at Ascot, The profiles that will separate likely contenders from those with more to prove. If you’ve already got your eye on a horse, we hope our stats will give you extra confidence — or help you avoid a costly mistake. Whether you’re weighing up a proven Group 1 performer, an unexposed handicapper, a two-year-old with limited form, or an overseas raider, this guide will help you focus on the runners with the strongest statistical claims. Royal Ascot can be intricate, unpredictable and highly competitive — but the right trends can help make sense of the meeting. Out now with instant download after ordering. £5 is the lowest price for this service (there are no further pro-rata discounts). Written by Rodney Pettinga - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 12 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-12-june/) - Receive Marten Julian and Jodie Standing's news and analysis for Friday, Saturday & Sunday. York, Chester and Sandown lead the way with the glitz and glam this weekend while Uttoxeter, Market Rasen and Hexham give the summer jumpers something to look forward to. Marten writes: ‘It’s a mixed bag this weekend, with five days of Royal Ascot starting on Tuesday, but we have a couple of attractive cards at York and Sandown, and I have something in mind for Salisbury and possibly Doncaster on Sunday’. Jodie writes: "Selectivity looks the key to success this weekend, with plenty of competitive handicaps on the cards. On Friday, I have my eye on a handicap chaser at Market Rasen, and on Saturday I’ll be taking a chance on a horse currently priced at around 25/1. On Sunday, depending on the declared runners, I may have something for us in Ireland and Doncaster." - [Weekend Bulletin: 5 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-5-june/) - Weekends don’t come much bigger than this, with the Epsom Derby and Oaks providing one of the true highlights of the season. It’s the perfect moment to join us for the second Classic of the campaign as the Flat reaches full stride. Saturday's analysis can be downloaded instantly after ordering. Alongside the action at Epsom, there is plenty more to get stuck into with competitive cards at Doncaster, Musselburgh, Hexham and Goodwood among many others. Whatever your racing tastes, there is something here for everyone. Marten writes: “The Derby and Oaks Festival at Epsom is my favourite meeting of the year. It’s where my love of racing first started … way back in 1970, when I was on the Downs to watch Raffingora achieve the fastest five furlongs ever recorded under 10 stone. In the 55 years since then I have targeted this meeting and enjoyed great success, focusing on the idiosyncratic requirements of this unique track. It looks as if this week’s meeting will be taking place on easy ground, which is particularly welcome for two of my selections, while I’ll be passing on my insights for fascinating renewals of the Derby and Oaks. I hope that you’ll be joining me for what promises to be an intriguing and hugely informative couple of days.” Jodie writes: "Both Classics at Epsom have an open feel, and I’ve already made the case for taking on the favourite in the Oaks, with a similar argument to follow for the Derby on Saturday. I also fancy a handicap hurdler in a low-key race at Hexham, while on Sunday – depending on declarations – a hurdler looks poised to strike for the first time in 11 months at Perth. In addition, a couple already jocked up at Goodwood have caught the eye." - [Weekend Bulletin: 29 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-29-may/) - Another packed weekend of competitive races comes around with 13 fixtures over the course of Friday to Sunday with the Two-Year-Old Trophy at Beverley the feature on Saturday. Marten writes: “It’s a strange weekend, with no flat turf meetings south of Nottingham, but the Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly on Sunday looks an intriguing contest while I have a few unraced two-year-olds entered to run. There may also be a progressive handicapper.” Jodie's analysis for Friday can be downloaded instantly after ordering. - [Weekend Bulletin Flat: 22 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-22-may/) - A packed Bank Holiday weekend awaits with plenty to note across a busy programme, including Ronan Groome's offerings on the Irish Guineas weekend at the Curragh. There promises to be something for everyone, including summer Jumps fans as Cartmel get's their season underway on Saturday. This service includes seven publications. One from both Marten and Jodie for each day of action from Friday to Sunday and one from Ronan on Saturday morning. Subscribers will receive Jodie's thoughts the day before each day's racing and Marten's will be available each morning. Available to download through an order history on this website with a complimentary email sent as well. - [Weekend Bulletin: 8 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-8-may/) - There is something for everyone this weekend. The Chester Cup takes pride of place on Friday, Ascot offers a strong two‑day meeting featuring the Victoria Cup, a prestigious seven-furlong heritage handicap, and Haydock stages its mixed card with the valuable Swinton Hurdle adding further depth. Lots of competitive racing to enjoy. Another Weekend Bulletin is upon us and there’s plenty to get stuck into! Jodie adds: “Friday is packed with fascinating runners at Ascot and Chester, including one lining up in the Chester Cup. I’m also keeping tabs on a maiden hurdler at Downpatrick and a well-treated handicapper at Market Rasen who could be one to bear in mind for another day. Saturday brings a cracking mixed card at Haydock where I dig into the Swinton Hurdle, and I’ve got another handicapper to follow at Hexham. Then on Sunday, depending on declarations, there’s plenty to unpick across in Ireland.” - [Weekend Bulletin: 1 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-1-may/) - The Classics are upon us as Newmarket’s prestigious Guineas meeting gets underway on Friday, setting the tone for a superb three days. Ascot stages its Royal Ascot Trials meeting where the Group 3 Sagaro Stakes is the highlight, while Goodwood hosts a competitive two‑day fixture and the Thirsk Hunt Cup takes centre stage up north. Jodie will no doubt be dipping into the jumps cards at Hexham, Warwick and Uttoxeter. This Weekend Bulletin covers the Newmarket Guineas three-day Festival Marten writes: “It’s a packed weekend of high-class action, with the start of the three-day Guineas meeting on Friday together with an intriguing card at Ascot. I’ll be giving you my each-way Guineas double in the hope of following up my profitable return in the Lincoln/Grand National and I also have something for Hexham, price and ground permitting.” Jodie writes: “There is something for everyone in this Weekend Bulletin. I've got a few fascinating Jumps horses still knocking about at Hexham and Uttoxeter on Saturday, the Punchestown Festival is rolling on with all its usual drama in Ireland, and then it’s over to Newmarket for three cracking days on the Rowley Mile. A couple of horses who really caught my eye at the Craven meeting are back on show, while I'll be sharing my views on the two Classics." - [Weekend Bulletin: 24 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-flat-24-april/) - The official end to the Jumps Season arrives with the Finale at Sandown bringing down the curtain on what has been a fantastic six months. At the same time the Flat season is beginning to stir, with the first Classic now just around the corner and anticipation building. Marten writes: “It’s the finale of the Jumps Season at Sandown on Saturday, where I’ve something for the support card, but my main interest this weekend is for the flat programme at Sandown on Friday, where there are three Group races. I am also expecting news for a horse at Nottingham on Sunday.” Jodie adds: “Friday's analysis features my thoughts on a competitive Highland National along with several horses across the Perth card who look ready to run well. There’s also a returning bumper horse of interest and a Kilbeggan runner who should appreciate the drying ground. On Saturday I'll be sinking my teeth into the Sandown card for their Jumps season Finale.” - [The Daily Bulletin Service](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-daily-bulletin-service-onemonth/) - When it comes to horse racing advisory services, time is the ultimate judge of success. And after more than 50 years of providing expert insights and top-quality advice, Marten Julian has definitely stood the test of time. His views are always informed, authoritative, and above all, valuable. But what really sets Marten apart is his unique perspective. You won’t get the same old clichéd opinions and predictable selections that you’ll find everywhere else. Instead, you’ll benefit from his original thinking and the unparalleled depth of his knowledge and experience. So, if you’re looking for a distinctive voice of expertise to guide you in the world of racing, look no further than The Daily Bulletin Service. You will receive an email by noon each day for one month starting the day of your order providing Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. Samples are available below. We also offer this service for the individual meetings or for the whole season. See our shop for more details. - [Weekend Bulletin: 17 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-17-april-copy/) - The start of our Flat season is here and our opening Weekend Bulletin features the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials at Newbury, while we also have quality Jumps action taking place at Ayr for their Scottish National two-day fixture. An unmissable start to what promises to be a fantastic spring/summer of racing. Marten writes: “It’s a packed weekend of action and following my each-way return with the Spring Double I will again be going for a double in the Scottish Grand National at Ayr and the Spring Cup at Newbury. I also have news for a horse that has been laid out for a supporting race at Ayr and an unexposed three-year-old at Newbury.” Jodie adds: "The cards at Ayr look tricky across the two days, but I’m keen on a couple of double‑figure contenders in Friday’s handicap hurdles. On Saturday I’ll share my thoughts on the Scottish National, though I’ll be making a strong case for my main fancy in the bumper. I’ve also got an interesting unexposed type lined up at Bangor." - [Weekend Bulletin: 10 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-10-april/) - Weekend racing analysis Our season finale is here with the Aintree Grand National extravaganza taking centre stage. Not only do you get the Friday to Sunday analysis, but we are throwing in the opening day of the Grand National fixture as well, meaning you are getting FOUR days of analysis! Marten writes: “Aintree’s three-day Grand National Festival is my favourite meeting of the season, featuring an increasing number of Cheltenham contenders either bidding to follow up their success or gain compensation. In the big race itself I will be keen to land the second leg of the Spring Double, having advised the Lincoln winner, but I’ve also got news of a horse that has been saved specifically for this meeting and a less-exposed Irish raider that may slip under the radar. It promises to be a fantastic three days!” Jodie adds: “Like Marten, Aintree is my favourite three-day meeting in the calendar and it has served me well in recent years, so here’s hoping that fortune continues. The handicaps are notoriously tricky but I had a strong fancy on Thursday and I am also teetering on taking on one of the short priced favourites in Grade 1 company. Friday opens with a minefield of a handicap hurdle but I’ve made a case for a horse priced at 25/1. I’ll also be sharing my thoughts on my long-time fancy for the Topham and I have a bet in the concluding handicap hurdle. On Saturday it’s the big one, but I have two contenders in the handicaps before then, so let’s hope for a bit of luck along the way. Whatever happens, it promises to be an excellent three days.” Come and join us for our finale on what could be a show stopping weekend. Also available: Aintree Stats £5. Click here to view and buy - [The Daily Bulletin Service - Jumps Season 2025/26](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-daily-bulletin-service-full-season-jumps2526/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day's racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service - The Daily Bulletin Service. You can log in each day of the 2025/26 Jumps Season and download Marten's analysis. You will also receive a complimentary email each day. Available by noon each day. From now up to and including Sunday 12 April 2026, you will be able to read and enjoy Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. Feel free to email Rebecca with any queries about this service. - [Aintree Stats 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/aintree-stats-2026-grand-national/) - Aintree Festival Statistics 2026 - your essential trends guide for the meeting Our Aintree Festival Statistics 2026 booklet brings together key historical trends, trainer patterns and race-by-race angles for the major contests across the meeting. Produced in the same style as our Cheltenham guide, it delivers the same high-quality approach to race analysis, helping you identify the profiles that matter most, narrow the field more effectively, and build a stronger shortlist. Available to download instantly after ordering. - [Weekend Card 12 June 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-12-june/) - Edition 385 Weekly Magazine - out now! Contributors: Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Marten writes: "This week’s edition of the Weekend Card features Ronan Groome’s Irish news for the first three days of Royal Ascot, together with my early thoughts on some long-priced prospects for the meeting and a newcomer at Fairyhouse on Friday, an unexposed one for Doncaster on Sunday and a low-grade hurdler at Kilbeggan on Monday evening." See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 30 October 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-30-october-2/) - Edition 405 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Premier Race Day Saturday at Ascot and Wetherby and Sunday at Carlisle. This promises to be one of the most enthralling weekends of the season, with the highly anticipated appearance of City Of Troy in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar on Saturday. Opinions are sharply divided on his prospects, and I share my thoughts in the Weekend Card. We are also joined by Dan Briden, who has news from the two-year-old scene. - [Weekly Roundup (hard copy)](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekly-roundup-hard-copy/) - Looking for a weekly dose of insights on the latest happenings in the racing world? Look no further than Marten’s Weekly Roundup! Every Monday, Marten offers his unique perspective on the latest topics in the racing world, and frequently featuring issues, races and horses not covered anywhere else. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to stay informed. By joining our community, you’ll be the first to know about all of our latest offerings, including exclusive insights and expert analysis on the world of horse racing. Plus, you’ll receive timely updates on our services, so you never miss out on any opportunities to engage with us. Client quote: “Please pass on my congratulations to Marten for a simply brilliant article that's just gone out in his Weekly Roundup, oozes passion and honesty, just brilliant.” This option is for it to be posted First Class every Monday for five, 10 or 15 weeks. Ideal for those who prefer hard copy publications or if you want to treat a friend! It's free via email - click here to join our Newsletter! See some past copies on our Journals page by clicking here - [Weekend Bulletin: 3 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-3-april/) - A Bank Holiday weekend bonanza! Read and enjoy the day’s analysis in our Weekend Bulletin, covering the action from Friday through to Sunday. With concise insight and carefully selected tips from both Marten Julian and Jodie Standing, don’t just follow the form — get ahead of it, and make the most of this exciting enhanced service. This Weekend Bulletin covers a packed Bank Holiday programme with the features being the Irish Grand National fixture at Fairyhouse and competitive action at Haydock for their series final races. - [The Two-Year-Old Prospects 2025 E-vsn](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-prospects-2025-e-vsn/) - Dan Briden's Two-Year-Old Prospects - your first look at racing’s next generation. Dive into an exciting exploration of promising two-year-old prospects destined to shine on the 2026 Classic stage. Uncover hidden gems among slow-burning handicap projects and gain valuable insights that could give you the edge. At around 22,000 words, this comprehensive booklet is packed with expert analysis. Don’t miss out on this essential journey into the world of tomorrow’s champions! Download only: Hard copy option available here. - [The Two-Year-Old Prospects 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-prospects-2025/) - Dan Briden's Two-Year-Old Prospects - your first look at racing’s next generation. Dive into an exciting exploration of promising two-year-old prospects destined to shine on next year’s Classic stage. Uncover hidden gems among slow-burning handicap projects and gain valuable insights that could give you the edge. At around 22,000 words, this comprehensive booklet is packed with expert analysis and features both a horse and trainer index. Also available as an E-Booklet only option. Click here to view in our shop. Instant download after ordering. - [Weekend Bulletin: 27 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-27-march/) - Read and enjoy the day’s analysis in our Weekend Bulletin, covering the action from Friday through to Sunday. With concise insight and carefully selected tips from both Marten Julian and Jodie Standing, don’t just follow the form — get ahead of it, and make the most of this exciting enhanced service. Marten write: "Our season ends with a flourish at Aintree on 11 April, and I will be passing on my early thoughts for the Grand National in this week’s Weekend Preview. This will enable subscribers to take advantage of the Spring Double, with my long-priced selection for the Lincoln." Jodie adds: "“As the Lincoln meeting on the Flat at Doncaster takes centre stage this weekend, the Jumps scene quietens, but I’ve still picked out some interesting horses across the three days, including a handicap debutant and a maiden hurdler for Friday." - [Weekend Bulletin: 20 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-20-march/) - Read and enjoy the day’s analysis in our Weekend Bulletin, covering the action from Friday through to Sunday. With concise insight and carefully selected tips from both Marten Julian and Jodie Standing, don’t just follow the form — get ahead of it, and make the most of this exciting enhanced service. - [Newsletter & Weekly Roundup](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/newsletter-weekly-roundup/) - Looking for a free weekly dose of insights on the latest happenings in the racing world? Look no further than Marten’s Weekly Roundup! Every Monday, Marten offers his unique perspective on the latest topics in the racing world, all delivered straight to your inbox, and frequently featuring issues, races and horses not covered anywhere else. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to stay informed. By joining our community, you’ll be the first to know about all of our latest offerings, including exclusive insights and expert analysis on the world of horse racing. Plus, you’ll receive timely updates on our services, so you never miss out on any opportunities to engage with us. Client quote: “Please pass on my congratulations to Marten for a simply brilliant article that's just gone out in his Weekly Roundup, oozes passion and honesty, just brilliant.” It's free - click here to join! See some past copies on our Journals page by clicking here - [Weekend Bulletin: 13 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-13-march/) - Read and enjoy the day’s analysis in our Weekend Bulletin, covering the action from Friday through to Sunday. With concise insight and carefully selected tips from both Marten Julian and Jodie Standing, don’t just follow the form — get ahead of it, and make the most of this exciting enhanced service. Subscribers receive six updates of information as both Marten and Jodie each share their analysis for each day. Jodie's news is released the evening before racing and Marten's news is released the morning of each day. If you have already joined Marten's Daily Bulletin for Cheltenham week and need to buy Jodie's news please email us to arrange this. - [Cheltenham Festival Spotlight 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/cheltenham-festival-focus/) - In our Cheltenham Festival Focus booklet Marten and Jodie share their best bets for the meeting, together with their in-depth analysis. - [Cheltenham Package 2026](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/cheltenham-package-2026/) - A package consisting of our Cheltenham Festival Focus Booklet and our Cheltenham Statistics booklet - [Cheltenham 2026 Statistics Booklet](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/cheltenham-2026-statistics-booklet/) - By Rodney Pettinga Cheltenham 2026: Key Stats To Help Make Your Festival Profitable OUT NOW You may already know that the right stats can often be the key to finding winners at Cheltenham – but, let’s be honest, they’re often presented in a way that’s hard to make sense of. For example, you might see: "7 of the last 10 winners were aged four or five." Is that useful? Does it mean you should back younger horses, or is it just a coincidence? In this guide, I’ve done the hard work for you. I’ve gone through every race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival and pulled out the most relevant, easy-to-understand stats to help you make sharper betting decisions. Maybe you’ve already got your eye on a horse. My stats will give you extra confidence – or help you avoid a costly mistake. You’ll discover: ✔ Trainer trends that could make or break your bets ✔ Patterns in winners’ age, form, and ratings ✔ Stats-backed insights to refine your selections The guide contains around 12,000 words of detailed and relevant stats. This product is also included in our Cheltenham Package. - [Weekend Bulletin: 6 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-6-march/) - Although the Cheltenham Festival is nearly upon us, this weekend we have the Imperial Cup, the EBF Final and a mares' Listed bumper at Sandown. Ayr hosts a two-day fixture and Carlisle what always proves to be an interest card on Sunday. Join Marten and Jodie as they examine the cards to provide their concise analysis and well-reasoned tips for the three days. - [Telephone & Text Service](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/telephone-text-service-one-week/) - Access to Marten’s daily analysis via his Telephone & Text Service. Listen to an audio recording each day on a 03 number via a personal pin number. Marten will also send you a text message each day to your mobile phone summarising horses of interest. The 03 telephone line is the same as calling a landline. It's not a premium rate number. Access for one month from date of order. The same information is available in an email format. Click here to view Access for one week from date of order. - [Weekend Bulletin: 27 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-27-february/) - The showpiece heads to Kelso for the bet365 Morebattle Hurdle, Scotland’s most valuable hurdle race and includes an additional bonus of £100,000 if the winner can double up at the Cheltenham Festival. There we also have the Grade 2 Premier Hurdle for novices and a Listed chase for the stayers. Newbury and Doncaster also host two-day fixtures with the highlight being the Grimthorpe Chase. Marten and Jodie will be delving into the cards to provide their concise analysis and well-reasoned tips for the three days. Marten writes: “We’re counting down to Cheltenham but I’ve got my eyes on a mud-loving plodder for Ffos Las on Sunday who appears to have been saved for this race and on Saturday I’m looking at something at Kelso.” Jodie writes: This weekend brings a cracking card at Kelso if the entries hold, and I’ll be passing on my thoughts for a few horses who look to have more to offer. I also have my eye on a handicap chaser at Newbury whose form has worked out particularly well, while at Huntingdon on Sunday there’s a horse in the bumper I’m keen on. - [Weekend Bulletin: 20 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-20-february/) - A competitive three days of racing, with Grade 2 action on offer at Kempton with the juveniles competing in the Adonis Hurdle. We also have the Pendil Novices' Chase, the Dovecote Hurdle and a traditionally deep handicap chase with £150,000 on offer. Up at Newcastle the dour stayers are in action for the Eider Chase while their could be some diamonds in the rough lurking at Chepstow, Hereford, Exeter, Ffos Las or Warwick. Both Marten and Jodie are on hand to provide their concise analysis and well-reasoned tips for the three days. - [Point-To-Point Recruits 2025/26 (Hard Copy)](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2025-26-hard-copy/) - Jodie Standing’s Point-to-Point Recruits is now in its seventh year and has firmly established itself as an essential guide for gaining an advantage on the National Hunt scene. Bursting with over 110 undiscovered horses from the pointing world set to embark on their careers under Rules, Jodie has once again left no stone unturned in her quest to help her readers stay ahead of the game. Out now! - [Weekend Bulletin: 13 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-13-february/) - There's no let up in the action this weekend with Grade 1 racing at Ascot where Jonbon could be headed following his thrilling finish in the Clarence House Chase. We also have the Reynoldstown Novices' Chase to look forward to and an informative day at Haydock where the Grand National Trial takes place. Kelso also host their Timeform sponsored programme which frequently throws up clues for the Cheltenham Festival, including last year’s Ultima winner Myretown. Don't miss both Marten and Jodie's concise analysis and well-reasoned tips for the three days. Marten writes: “On Saturday we have a good card at Ascot, a better one at Haydock and the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton. I have my eyes on a progressive horse at Haydock, while I’m also quite keen on one at Musselburgh on Sunday.” Jodie says: "Jodie adds: Kelso’s heavy ground is going to take some getting tomorrow, but I’ve managed to unearth a handful of horses who relish such conditions, and I also have thoughts on a runner at Chepstow who can get his season back on track. Freezing temperatures threaten to play their part over the next couple of days, but all being well we should be treated to a cracking card at Haydock, while on Sunday there are horses of interest at both Punchestown and Musselburgh." - [Weekend Bulletin: 6 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-6-february/) - Please note this weekend's edition was reduced in price to allow for the reduction in fixtures. A thriller of a weekend is in store with the Super Saturday at Newbury taking centre stage with the likes of Lulamba hoping to cement his position at the top of the Arkle betting at the Cheltenham Festival. We also have the William Hill Handicap Hurdle where Dan Skelton will be hoping his mare Let It Rain can come out on top. Uttoxeter, Newcastle, Exeter, Bangor and Warwick all add to a busy weekend in which both Marten and Jodie will be delving into the cards to provide their concise analysis and well-reasoned tips for the three days. Jodie's Weekend Bulletin for Friday is out now, and although the weather is doing its best to scupper the programme, her and Marten are back once more to bring you their thoughts for the three days. Jodie says: Although we only have one Jumps fixture on Friday, I’m taking on the current favourite in the novices’ hurdle at Bangor. On Saturday, I will be passing comment on a horse that is a double-figure price for the Arkle at the Cheltenham Festival, and there is also the William Hill hurdle to get stuck into at Newbury. The Listed bumper also looks particularly strong. On Sunday, there are a couple of horses who catch my eye at Naas, and hopefully Exeter can get the show on the road for their valuable card. - [Weekend Bulletin: 30 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-30-january/) - Cheltenham Festival clues will be on offer at the Dublin Racing Festival in Ireland, while Musselburgh host their bet365 Scottish Cheltenham Trials weekend, where the southern raiders tackle the northerners in the showcase meeting for the track. We also have Grade 1 action at Sandown and competitive support cards across the three days from Wetherby, Catterick and Market Rasen, plus more. With so much to digest both Marten and Jodie will be delving into the cards to provide their concise analysis and well-reasoned tips for the three days. Ronan Groome is on hand to preview a highly anticipated Dublin Racing Festival, with two quality-packed days of action at Leopardstown this weekend. Leopardstown: Saturday's card has been transferred to Monday so subscribers will now receive Marten's Daily Bulletin on Monday. - [Dark Horses Annual 2022 E-Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-annual-2022-e-book/) - 48th Edition! The 2022 Dark Horses Annual (E-Book) Marten’s latest Dark Horses Annual is packed with insights and observations to guide you through the new Flat season. Harnessing his 52 years in the business, this latest edition of the Dark Horses contains: The Premier List: Marten’s highly select choice of horses that he believes will pay to follow throughout the season. The Dark Horses: Marten’s contacts from across the country have guided him towards a handful of unraced and unexposed horses that have given their connections plenty of encouragement in their work at home. The Dark Handicappers: Marten has unearthed some exciting prospects that were campaigned as two-year-olds with a view to starting the new season from favourable marks. The Classic Previews: Marten has written an in-depth preview for each of the first four Classics. Available to download instantly. - [Weekend Card 15 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-15-october/) - Edition 439 Our weekly racing publication is packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing and Ian Carnaby. Marten writes: ‘It would be hard to imagine any follower of horse racing not getting excited by Saturday’s British Champions’ Day at Ascot, and I have written a 1,400-word preview of the meeting with four selections, three at double-figure odds. Jodie has some imaginative insights for the jumping action and a very interesting qualifier from the Dark Horse section runs on Friday.’ Available to download instantly after ordering. - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 7 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-7-november/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 7 November up to and including Sunday 9 November Friday's analysis is available now. We also offer this service for individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details, feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Weekend Bulletin: 23 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-23-january/) - With the Cheltenham Trial's Day taking centre stage, together with competitive action at Doncaster, this weekend promises to give strong pointers towards the rest of the season. Both Marten and Jodie will be delving into the cards to provide their concise analysis and well-reasoned tips for the three days. Jodie adds: “After a deep dive into Friday’s Doncaster and Warwick cards, I’ve unearthed three horses that look well worth following. Saturday is shaping up to be a must-watch day and I’ll be highlighting runners with serious Cheltenham Festival and Grand National potential. On Sunday, depending on declarations, there’s a horse tucked away at Sedgefield that I’m keen on, while over at Naas, a handicap debutant from a very shrewd yard has really caught my attention.” - [Weekend Bulletin: 16 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-16-january/) - Although it has been a quieter spell after the Festive period — not helped by the frost wiping out much of the programme — the Weekend Bulletin has kept ticking over, with Jodie finding five winners from her last seven selections. Now we’re back into the thick of it for the Berkshire Winter Million event across Windsor and Ascot, and both Marten and Jodie are already lining up their weekend targets. Marten writes: “There has been plenty of rain around for the Berkshire Winter Million meetings at Windsor and Ascot this weekend, so in the likely event of soft ground I will have a couple of handicappers to tell you about. There is also a potential top-notcher for the AW entered and I’ll have something to say about a possible northern raider.” Jodie adds: “I’m hoping to carry my recent momentum into the weekend with a couple who appeal on Friday. Saturday brings some interesting novice hurdlers and a handicap chaser who looks to have more to come, while Sunday shapes up as another competitive day, featuring a strong stayer on a tempting mark who’ll be even happier if more rain arrives.” - [The Long Road From Portman Square](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-long-road-from-portman-square/) - By Ian Carnaby A Gambler’s Odyssey from Portsmouth to Paraguay Ian is blessed with a special talent. His work has that rare knack of prompting the most emotive of responses in the reader. Somehow he makes you feel nostalgic for an age or time you may never even have known. An ideal gift for any horse racing fan! If you haven't read his first book why not buy both for just £5 extra! Click here to view - [Strictly Classified](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/strictly-classified/) - Strictly Classified: Insights into the Trainer's Mind Marten Julian sheds light on how those who work with horses try to unravel the innermost workings of a horse's mind. A hardback book. - [Weekend Bulletin: 9 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-9-january/) - Read and enjoy the day’s analysis in our Weekend Bulletin, covering the action from Friday through to Sunday. With concise insight and carefully selected tips from both Marten Julian and Jodie Standing, don’t just follow the form — get ahead of it, and make the most of this exciting enhanced service. We also offer a package for every weekend for the Jumps Season. Click here to view. - [Weekend Bulletin: 2 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-2-january/) - Read and enjoy the day's analysis via a Daily Bulletin covering from Friday to Sunday from Marten Julian and Jodie Standing. Marten says: “It’s a relatively quiet weekend after the excitement of the busy Christmas programme, but there is a horse entered for a low-profile contest who can go close.” Jodie adds: “It’s a quiet start to 2026 after a hectic Festive and New Year’s Day programme, but there’s an interesting little card at Ayr on Friday where I have two selections. Over the weekend, depending on declarations, there are also a handful of potentially well‑handicapped horses I’ll be keeping a close eye on.” - [Weekend Bulletin: 19 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-19-december/) - Read and enjoy the day's analysis via a Daily Bulletin covering from Friday to Sunday. Weekends are about to get even better as Jodie Standing teams up with Marten Julian to deliver the Weekend Bulletin! If you enjoyed Jodie's Weekend Card articles, you’ll love her Weekend Bulletin, in which she not only shares updates on entries from her Point-to-Point Recruits book, but also dissects the Jumps action across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, spotlighting everything from unexposed novices to handicap projects. Her results speak for themselves in the Weekend Card but now, with the benefit of declared runners it enables Jodie to be more concise and accurate in her analysis. Don’t just follow the form, get ahead of it, and take full advantage of this exciting new enhanced service. - [Weekend Bulletin: 12 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-12-december/) - Read and enjoy the day's analysis via a Daily Bulletin covering from Friday to Sunday. Weekends are even better as Jodie Standing teams up with Marten Julian to deliver the Weekend Bulletin! If you enjoyed Jodie's Weekend Card articles, you’ll love her Weekend Bulletin, in which she not only shares updates on entries from her Point-to-Point Recruits book, but also dissects the Jumps action across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, spotlighting everything from unexposed novices to handicap projects. Jodie writes: “Usually when I look forward to things they don’t quite land, but this weekend feels different. Over the course of the weekend two patiently handled handicappers could finally deliver, and win, lose, or draw, faith will be rewarded. Friday also offers a mare who is taking on the boys, a well‑treated handicap debutant ready to strike, and a hurdler back at a course he knows well. Saturday brings a Cheltenham‑targeted mare, a standout performer in the feature race, and a novice chaser with serious potential. And on Sunday, a novice hurdler, a progressive handicapper, and a bumper horse all demand attention. Whatever unfolds, it promises to be a lively, informative, and compelling watch across all three days.” - [Weekend Card 5 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-5-november/) - Published since the 1980s this is our final ever edition. In this week's edition Marten has asked our team to provide ante-post suggestions for Cheltenham and the 2026 Clsssics together with some unexposed horses to watch for in the coming weeks. Jodie says: "With this being the final Weekend Card, I hope we can go out with a bang. With an ante-post advice for Cheltenham next week, five handicappers to follow, and a handful of selections up and down the country over the coming days, it promises to be a fine send-off." Marten writes: “As this is the final Weekend Card I have asked our team of writers to nominate an ante-post bet for Cheltenham and one for next year’s Classics. We have also pinpointed a few horses to watch for in the coming weeks. Details of our new service will be made available shortly.” - [Weekend Bulletin: 5 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-5-december/) - Weekends are now even better as Jodie Standing teams up with Marten Julian to deliver the Weekend Bulletin! Read and enjoy their analysis for this weekend. We roll with the punches in this game and, although last weekend proved a challenge with some results not going our way, we dust ourselves off and look forward to another top-class weekend in prospect. With Grade 1 action at Sandown and the Becher Chase at Aintree, there’s plenty to anticipate. Marten has spotted a handicapper he’s keen to keep onside at Chepstow, while Jodie has had her eyes on a horse for the Becher for some time. She also holds a strong view on a contender entered for the Edinburgh National on Sunday. The supporting cards look strong too, with plenty of progressive novices ready to step into the limelight. Our focus is not only on finding those weekend winners but also on delivering analysis that adds genuine value. Join us for what promises to be another mouth-watering three days. - [Weekend Bulletin: 28 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-28-november/) - This Weekend Bulletin promises to be another unmissable read — with top-class action right. The major meeting takes centre stage, but with Doncaster, Newcastle (Fighting Fifth fixture), Musselburgh and Bangor across Friday and Saturday, plus Carlisle and Leicester on Sunday, there promises to be something for everyone. Ireland also hosts a two-day weekend meeting at Fairyhouse. Marten writes: “I have a couple of handicap debutants for us to watch on Friday … one at Newbury and one at Doncaster … while I’ve got a progressive chaser lined up for Newbury on Saturday. I hope to get the nod for a quiet one at Wolverhampton on Saturday evening while the forecast for heavy ground at Carlisle on Sunday is just the news I was hoping for.” Jodie says: “I’m looking forward to a busy and exciting weekend of racing. At Newbury on Friday, I’ll be opposing one of the short-priced favourites with a horse I believe could prove to be the best his trainer has ever handled. Over at Doncaster, there’s a handicap debutant lurking on a low mark who looks ready to make his presence felt. Saturday brings a chance to focus on the novice hurdles, while Sunday at Carlisle always offers something of interest — and I’ve already marked down a couple I’m keen to keep onside. I’ll also be sharing thoughts on some promising point-to-point recruits.” - [Weekend Bulletin: 21 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-bulletin-21-november/) - As this weekend has passed this is a back catalogue price. Read and enjoy the day’s analysis from Marten and Jodie via the Weekend Bulletin, covering Friday to Sunday. Last week got off to a flyer, with the opening service delivering excellent results, headlined by Glen Road, who was advised at 13/2 and won at 9/2. Aeroplane Blonde also raised pulses with a bold fourth at 28/1, flagged the night before with five places available. Soldier Reeves (14/1), Saint Clovis (12/1), July Flower (6/5), and Panic Attack (6/1) were all strongly mentioned and delivered in style, while Marten also shared long-term food for thought with his analysis of the Greatwood Hurdle. Join us in The Weekend Bulletin for what promises to be some more enthralling days of racing! - [Cheltenham 2025 Statistics Booklet](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/cheltenham-2025-statistics-booklet/) - By Rodney Pettinga Cheltenham 2025: Key Stats To Help Make Your Festival Profitable You may already know that the right stats can often be the key to finding winners at Cheltenham – but, let’s be honest, they’re often presented in a way that’s hard to make sense of. For example, you might see: "7 of the last 10 winners were aged four or five." Is that useful? Does it mean you should back younger horses, or is it just a coincidence? In this guide, which is only offered exclusively to Marten Julian subscribers, I’ve done the hard work for you. I’ve gone through every race at this year’s Cheltenham Festival and pulled out the most relevant, easy-to-understand stats to help you make sharper betting decisions. Maybe you’ve already got your eye on a horse. My stats will give you extra confidence – or help you avoid a costly mistake. You’ll discover: ✔ Trainer trends that could make or break your bets ✔ Patterns in winners’ age, form, and ratings ✔ Stats-backed insights to refine your selections The guide contains nearly 5000 words of detailed and relevant stats, we hope you will enjoy reading it. Final discount now live. Interesting long-term reading. Available to download instantly. - [Weekend Card 5 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-5-march-2025-cheltenham-festival/) - Edition 414 Including our information for the first two days of the Cheltenham Festival. With news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Ian Carnaby, Rodney Pettinga & Ronan Groome. Instant download after ordering. - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 31 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-31-october/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 31 October up to and including Sunday 2 November. We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Weekend Card 29 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-29-october/) - Edition 441 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ronan Groome, Jodie Standing, Rodney Pettinga and Ian Carnaby. Marten writes: “This week’s edition of the Weekend Card weighs in at over 13,000 words, notably including Jodie’s substantial appraisal of the jumping scene, Ronan Groome’s preview of the excellent Down Royal programme and I have selected three horses for the Breeders’ Cup meeting, including one at 20/1.” Wetherby Charlie Hall - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 24 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-24-october/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 24 October up to and including Sunday 26 October We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Weekend Card 22 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-22-october/) - Edition 440 Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Dan Briden, Rodney Pettinga and Ian Carnaby. Available now. Cheltenham Showcase Meeting & Doncaster Futurity Trophy Marten writes: ‘There is something for everyone this weekend, with the return of jump racing at Cheltenham on Friday and an excellent card at Aintree on Sunday. Then we have the Group 1 Futurity at Doncaster and I have one for the AW on Monday. Jodie has written almost 3,500 words with news about her point-to-point recruits and Dan Briden pinpoints those of this year’s unexposed talent that he expects to reveal their full potential next season.’ - [Weekend Card 8 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-8-october-2/) - Edition 438 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Rodney Pettinga and Ian Carnaby. Instant download after ordering. Newmarket Future Champions Weekend See a back copy by clicking here - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 17 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-17-october/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 17 October up to and including Sunday 19 October. This includes Ascot Champions Day - out now! We also offer this service for individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Daily Bulletin Newmarket Future Champions Meeting 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-newmarket-future-champions-meeting-2025/) - There are nine Group races over the two days of Newmarket’s Future Champions meeting, which starts on Friday 10 October. This is one of the most informative meetings of the autumn, where reputations are made and pointers found to next year’s Classics. If you would also like Marten's Daily Bulletin for Sunday you can buy a full weekend's service by clicking here. - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 10 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-10-october/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 10 October up to and including Sunday 12 October This includes Marten's news for the Newmarket Future Champions meeting. We also offer this service for individual meetings or on a monthly basis. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 3 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-3-october/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 3 October up to and including Sunday 5 October We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Weekend Card 1 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-1-october-2/) - Edition 437 Instant download after ordering. Our racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Dan Briden and Ian Carnaby. Marten writes: “It’s the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe this weekend and you can read my in-depth preview of the big race in this week’s Card. This edition also includes a well-informed feature from Jodie on the jump racing at Hexham on Friday and Kelso on Sunday and insights from Dan Briden on unraced 2yr olds at Chantilly, Salisbury and Wolverhampton.” Sun Chariot Day & The Arc See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 24 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-24-september-2/) - Edition 436 Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Dan Briden and Ian Carnaby. Marten writes: “We have a new name in the Dark Horses section this week … an unexposed two-year-old from a low profile yard … and two highly-rated debutants at Haydock on Saturday and Newcastle on Tuesday. Jodie has some intriguing needs for Newton Abbot on Monday.” Instant download after ordering. Newmarket Cambridgeshire meeting See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 17 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-17-september-2/) - Edition 435 - out now Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing and Ian Carnaby. Ayr Gold Cup See a back copy by clicking here - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 12 Sept](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-12-sept/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 12 September up to and including Sunday 14 September We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 19 Sept](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-19-sept/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 19 September up to and including Sunday 21 September. Saturday's analysis is available now. We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Weekend Card 10 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-10-september-2/) - Edition 434 - out now Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden Ronan Groome and Ian Carnaby. Doncaster St Leger Festival & Irish Champions Festival Marten writes: ‘This week’s Card includes Ronan Groome’s in-depth preview of Irish Champions’ weekend, with six Group 1 races, my preview of the St Leger and Irish Champion Stakes, Dan Briden has pinpointed five two-year-olds with entries over the next few days and I suggest a big-priced double on the St Leger and Arc.’ - [Weekend Card 20 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-20-august-2/) - Edition 432 Download instantly after ordering. Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Dan Briden and Ian Carnaby. Clock Watcher Rodney Pettinga also shares his latest news. - [Weekend Card 3 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-3-september/) - Edition 433 Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Ronan Groome and Ian Carnaby. Pro rata weekend discount now live. Amongst other news in this week's edition of the Weekend Card, Ronan Groome runs the rule over the two-year-old scene in Ireland and speculates on who the main beneficiary will be following news that Ryan Moore looks set to miss the rest of the flat season. Marten writes: “We have a rather special Weekend Card this week, with over 11,000 words featuring Ronan Groome’s review of the Irish Two-Year-Old scene, a handful of our Dark Horses entered to run and Jodie has some intriguing information for the forthcoming low-profile jumps meetings.” See a back copy by clicking here - [Daily Bulletin York Ebor Meeting 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-york-ebor-meeting-2025/) - For many followers York’s Ebor meeting is the highlight of the Flat season, even more so than Royal Ascot and Goodwood. Marten provides his expert opinion on all the big meetings throughout the season through the Daily Bulletin service. Simply, order the meeting you wish to receive, log into your online account and download. A notification will be sent when it is available. Price reduces daily. Package available to include all his Daily Bulletins for the major meetings. Click here to view. - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 15 Aug](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-15-aug/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 15 August up to and including Sunday 17 August Download the day's information immediately after ordering. We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Weekend Card 16 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-16-july-2/) - Edition 429 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Ronan Groome and Ian Carnaby. Out now - [Weekend Card 25 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-25-june-2/) - Edition 426 Available to download instantly after ordering. Our racing magazine with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome, Rodney Pettinga & Jodie Standing. Including Royal Ascot reflections and previews of the Irish Derby & Northumberland Plate. See a back copy by clicking here - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 8 Aug](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-8-aug/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 8 August up to and including Sunday 10 August We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Daily Bulletin Glorious Goodwood Meeting 2025](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-glorious-goodwood-meeting-2025/) - With highly competitive racing across a full range of distances, Glorious Goodwood's idiosyncratic course presents a unique challenge for it's competitors. Marten provides his expert opinion on all the big meetings throughout the season through the Daily Bulletin service. Simply, order the meeting you wish to receive, log into your online account and download. A notification will be sent when it is available. Package available to include all his Daily Bulletins for the major meetings. Click here to view - [Weekend Card 30 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-30-july-2/) - Edition 431 Our racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Rodney Pettinga and Ronan Groome. Marten writes: “This week’s Card is packed with news for the next few weeks, including my information for a handicap plot at Galway on Saturday and an unraced two-year-old at Lingfield on Monday. Ronan Groome has some shrewd insights for Galway and Dan Briden passes on news about four unraced two-year-olds.” Instant download after ordering. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 18 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-18-june/) - Edition 425 - available to download Wednesday 18 June Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby, Rodney Pettinga & Jodie Standing. Part two of Royal Ascot See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 9 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-9-july-2/) - Edition 428 Available to download instantly after ordering. Our weekly racing publication with news from: Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Rodney Pettinga and Ian Carnaby. July Festival - [Weekend Card 2 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-2-july-2/) - Edition 427 Out now! ‘This week’s Weekend Card features an exciting new handicap project to the Dark Horses section, a long-priced outsider for the Coral-Eclipse and an intriguing entry for the Listed race at Beverley.’ Featuring news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Rodney Pettinga & Jodie Standing. Sandown Eclipse - [Daily Bulletin Weekend 27 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-weekend-27-june/) - Since 1980 Marten has studied the day’s racing and released his analysis. Available as a Telephone & Text Service or as a download via this service – The Daily Bulletin Service. Download Marten's racing analysis for the weekend of Friday 27 June up to and including Sunday 29 June. Saturday's information is available now for instant download. We also offer this service for the individual meetings or per month. See our shop for more details feel free to email Rebecca with any queries or a quote for bespoke dates. - [Weekend Card 11 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-11-june/) - Edition 424 - available to download instantly after ordering. Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby, Rodney Pettinga & Jodie Standing. This week’s Weekend Card will feature a brief appraisal of the first two days of Royal Ascot. Our team will share the news they have at time of writing (Wednesday mid morning deadline). - [Weekend Card 4 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-4-june/) - Edition 423 Available to download instantly after ordering. The Flat turf season is in full stride and Marten Julian and his expert team return with their trusted insights in the latest Weekend Card, available to download from Wednesday 4 June. This special Derby & Oaks edition features Marten’s in-depth analysis of the two Classics at Epsom, along with his thoughts on several key supporting races and notable runners from a packed weekend of racing. You’ll also hear from some familiar and valued contributors: Jodie Standing shares her latest views from the jumps and point-to-point scene Rodney Pettinga highlights those catching the eye on the clock And of course, Ian Carnaby delivers his weekly reflections with trademark wit and wisdom Just £10 — a small price for access to seasoned, independent opinion that can help you stay ahead of the curve this weekend. - [Weekend Card 14 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-14-may/) - Edition 421 - out now Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. “This week’s Card includes my in-depth preview of the Lockinge Stakes and news for an unraced three-year-old entered for Carlisle on Monday. I also have four entries from my Dark Horse section, including one of specific interest, and Dan Briden has news for six unexposed two -year-olds.” See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 21 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-21-may/) - Edition 422 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ronan Groome, Jodie Standing and Ian Carnaby. Instant download after ordering. Packed with Bank Holiday action, including Cartmel See a back copy by clicking here - [Ian Carnaby package](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/ian-carnaby-package/) - Buy both of Ian Carnaby's books! Not Minding That It Hurts The Long Road From Portman Square - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2021/22 E-Book ONLY](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2021-22-e-book-only/) - An essential guide to this year's unexposed graduates from the point-to-point field. This product is an E-Book only. Available to download now - instantly after ordering. - [Weekend Card 30 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-30-april/) - Edition 420 Newmarket Guineas weekend Available to download instantly after ordering. Our racing magazine packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Marten writes: “This week’s Card is packed with news, including my previews of the 1000 and 2000 Guineas, a well-regarded newcomer on Friday, a 33/1 chance at Goodwood and an exciting addition from a northern yard to the Dark Horses section. Ronan Groome also passes on his information from Ireland.” See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 23 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-23-april/) - Edition 419 Instant download after ordering. Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing and Ian Carnaby. Marten writes: “There are three new names for the Dark Horses section this week, including a lowly-rated gelding from a top yard with form figures 000- and a useful jumper being handicapped in Ireland for the Flat. Jodie has some news for Perth and I have a well-treated handicapper at Haydock.” Premier Race Day - Sandown Jumps Season Finale See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 9 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-9-april/) - Edition 417 - instant download after ordering. Our racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby, Jodie Standing & Radney Pettinga. Premier Race Day - Scottish National Meeting This week’s edition will feature a handful of unexposed/unraced horses to follow from Marten and Dan. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 2 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-2-april-aintree-grandnational/) - Edition 416 Both The Weekend Card and the free Grand National Stats available to download instantly after ordering. This week’s Weekend Card is packed with over 10,000 words of news and informed comment for three glorious days at Aintree, with contributions from Irish contact Ronan Groome, Rodney Pettinga, Jodie Standing, Ian Carnaby and Marten Julian. Marten also has an unexposed one to note for a market move at Newcastle. We will have all the lowdown and selections in this week's edition with Marten Julian, Jodie Standing and Irish contact Ronan Groome poised to unearth a handful of selections and guide you through the meeting. - [Gift Voucher](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/gift-voucher/) - Buy a gift voucher for a friend or relative. £5 (buy as many as required) - [Why Cartmel?](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/why-cartmel/) - Survival of a small racecourse, 1856-1998 Price includes postage and packing. - [Weekend Card 24 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-24-april/) - Edition 378. Out now Weekend discount now live. Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlights - The Bet365 Jumps Finale and a fantastic support card at Sandown. Marten writes: “This week’s edition of the Weekend Card features my 12 Dark Handicappers, each of them unexposed but confidently expected to win races this season. I have two handicap hurdlers declared to run at Perth and Dan Briden, who sent out a 7/1 winner on Tuesday, has two from his Twelve to Follow list.” - [Weekend Card 2 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-2-october/) - Edition 401 - out now Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Premier Race Day Saturday at Ascot and Newmarket. “I have a great record in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe going back to 50/1 winner Gold River in 1981 and you can read my preview of this year’s race in the Weekend Card, together with news for the support card and elsewhere.” Marten See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 11 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-11-september/) - Edition 398 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. “This week’s edition of the Card includes Ronan Groome’s assessment of the Irish Champion Stakes weekend with both of us independently agreeing on a double-figure selection for the big race. Dan Briden has news on a handful of two-year-olds and I have four selections for Doncaster.” Marten Premier Race Days: Saturday at Chester and Doncaster on Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Other Key Races: 14th- 15th Longines Irish Champions Weekend Leopardstown/Curragh. Instant download after ordering. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 10 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-10-april/) - Edition 376 - Bumper edition! Instant download after ordering. Pro-rata weekend discount now live. Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome & Jodie Standing. Our final Card for the Jumps Season. - [Weekend Card 22 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-22-may/) - Edition 382 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome & Jodie Standing. Instant download after ordering. Weekend pro-rata discount now live. Fixture highlights - The Brigadier Gerard evening at Sandown and the Betfred Temple Stakes Day at Haydock. Following last week’s 80/1 success from the Sleeper section, this week’s Card features Ronan Groome’s preview of the three-day Guineas meeting at the Curragh, plenty of news for Cartmel’s bank holiday programme and an exciting new addition to the Sleeper section who has been beaten miles in his five starts to date. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 10 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-10-july/) - Edition 389 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Fixture highlights - The Newmarket July Festival three-day meeting, including the Group 1 July Cup. It may be the Newmarket July Meeting this week but in the Weekend Card Marten has news for three unraced two-year-olds at Doncaster, Newmarket and Ayr on Monday together with information for a lightly-raced handicapper making his belated seasonal debut. Dan Briden has information about five two-year-olds including one at Chantilly on Sunday. Instant download available after ordering. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 17 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-17-july/) - Edition 390 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Weekend discount rate now live. Fixture highlights - Weatherbys Super Sprint Day at Newbury. Key Race(s): 20th- 21st Curragh Irish Oaks. This edition includes Irish contact Ronan Groome’s preview of the Irish Oaks. Marten writes: "I have news in this week’s Card for a low-grade chaser who has been laid out for a handicap chase at Cartmel on Saturday together with a double-figure selection for the Super Sprint at Newbury. There are also two new additions to the Sleeper section and Ronan Groome previews Irish Oaks day at the Curragh." See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 18 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-18-september/) - Edition 399 - out now instant download Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ronan Groome and Ian Carnaby. Premier Race Day Saturday at Ayr and Newbury. Key Races: 19th- 21st Ayr Gold Cup Meeting. 22nd- 28th Listowel Harvest Festival. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 12 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-12-march-2025-cheltenham-festival/) - Edition 415 This publication is 32 pages of information with our team's news and views on the racing from Thursday 13 March to Tuesday 18 March. Instant download after ordering. With news from Marten Julian, Jodie Standing, Ian Carnaby, Rodney Pettinga & Ronan Groome. - [Telephone & Text Service one month](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/telephone-text-service-one-month-jumps2021/) - Access to Marten’s daily analysis via his Telephone & Text Service. Listen to an audio recording each day on a 03 number via a personal pin number. Marten will also send you a text message each day to your mobile phone summarising horses of interest. Access for one month from date of order. The same information is available in an email format. Click here to view - [The Two-Year-Old Prospects 2024 E-vsn](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-prospects-2024-pdf/) - Discover the future stars of racing with Dan Briden’s exclusive guide! Dive into an exciting exploration of promising two-year-old prospects destined to shine on next year’s Classic stage. Uncover hidden gems among slow-burning handicap projects and gain valuable insights that could give you the edge. At around 20,000 words, this comprehensive booklet is packed with expert analysis. Don’t miss out on this essential journey into the world of tomorrow’s champions! Download only: available instantly after ordering. Hard copy option available here. £7 - [The Two-Year-Old Prospects 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-prospects-2024/) - Discover the future stars of racing with Dan Briden’s exclusive guide! Dive into an exciting exploration of promising two-year-old prospects destined to shine on next year’s Classic stage. Uncover hidden gems among slow-burning handicap projects and gain valuable insights that could give you the edge. At around 20,000 words, this comprehensive booklet is packed with expert analysis. Don’t miss out on this essential journey into the world of tomorrow’s champions! Download instantly after ordering. Hard copies dispatched daily. £8.50 - [Weekend Card 22 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-22-january-2025/) - Edition 412 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Rodney Pettinga. Our first edition of 2025 Cheltenham Trials weekend. Available to download instantly after ordering. - [Festive Weekend Card 18 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-18-december-2024/) - Edition 411 Christmas Festive Edition! Instant download after ordering. Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome, Rodney Pettinga & Jodie Standing. Marten writes: “The Christmas Festive edition of the Weekend Card will be packed with big race previews of the King George, the Christmas Hurdle and the Welsh National. We also have information on horses specially prepared for lower-profile meetings over the holiday period together with latest news for the Dark Horses section. Jodie Standing and Ian Carnaby also pass on their thoughts and we hope to have news from our Irish contact, to be confirmed, for Leopardstown and elsewhere. This bumper edition of the Weekend Card will prove an invaluable source of information and entertainment for the festive season” - [Weekend Card 4 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-4-december-2024/) - Edition 409 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian & Ian Carnaby. Available to download instantly after ordering. Pro-rata discount rate now live. Marten writes: “It’s Tingle Creek and Becher Chase weekend but the feature of this week’s Card is the addition of two new Dark Horses, from a low-profile UK yard and the other an eye-catcher trained in Ireland.” - [Weekend Card 27 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-27-november/) - Edition 408 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Available to download instantly after ordering. Marten writes: “The big race this weekend is the Coral Gold Cup at Newbury, but the highlight of this week’s Weekend Card is Jodie’s 100/1 ante-post recommendation for the Welsh National. I have an outsider for the Fighting Fifth and Jodie has plenty of news for the action elsewhere.” - [Weekend Card 6 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-6november2024/) - Edition 406 - out now- Long-term reference Flat & Jumps racing edition Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome This edition contains Marten's first article in relation to the 2024/25 Jumps season. For this reason it is not available on a pro rata basis this week. If you order this and would like a hard copy posted please email Rebecca. Premier Race Day Saturday at Doncaster. - [Weekend Card 11 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-11-december/) - Edition 410 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian & Ian Carnaby. Instant download after ordering. Pro rata rate now live. Marten writes: “It’s a surprisingly busy weekend for me, with five selections for the Weekend Card on Saturday including an unraced two-year-old at Southwell and an unexposed handicapper, and a promising sort from a shrewd yard for a handicap chase at Windsor.” - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2023/24 Hard Copy & PDF Copy bundle](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2023-24-hard-copy-pdf-copy-bundle-2/) - Pro-rata discount now live Bursting with over 90 undiscovered horses from the pointing world set to embark on their careers under Rules, Jodie has once again left no stone unturned in her quest at helping her readers stay ahead of the game. - [Weekend Card 13 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-13-november/) - Edition 407 - out now First official edition for the 2024/25 Jumps season Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Marten writes: “This week’s edition of the Weekend Card features my in-depth analysis of the Paddy Power Gold Cup together with news for many of the meeting’s other races from both Jodie and me. There is also something interesting for the AW.” - [Weekend Card 23 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-23-october/) - Edition 404 - out now! Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Premier Race Day Saturday at Cheltenham and Doncaster and Sunday at Aintree. Key Race(s): 25th- 26th Doncaster Vertem Futurity Trophy Meeting. Marten writes: “Dan and Jodie are with us for this week’s Weekend Card, while I have a selection for a sprint handicap at Doncaster with a significant jockey booking. Also a Sleeper with a low weight in a handicap hurdle at Ayr on Monday.”” - [Weekend Card 16 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-16-october/) - Edition 403 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Premier Race Day Saturday at Ascot and Kempton Park. Key Race(s): 19th Ascot QIPCO British Champions Day. Marten writes: “We have five Group races to look forward to on Champions Day at Ascot, but I have news for a horse laid out for the closing handicap, and Jodie Standing is welcomed back with some intriguing news for the jump venues.” - [Weekend Card 9 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-9-october/) - Edition 402 - out now Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Premier Race Day Saturday at Newmarket and York. Key Race(s): 11th- 12th Future Champions Day. Marten writes: “This week’s Card includes an update from Dan Briden on the Two-Year-Old scene and I have an outsider for one of the Group races at Newmarket and a chaser at Hexham.” - [Dark Horses Jumps Booklet 2022/23 - EBook Only](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-jumps-booklet-2022-23-ebook-only/) - Long-Term Reference only Marten’s Dark Horses Jumps Booklet for the 2022/23 season. The Dark Horses features Marten’s highly select Premier List of horses to follow – last year’s feature included subsequent Arkle winner Edwardstone - and a Dark Horses section, comprising horses drawn from the ranks of imports, bumpers and unexposed horses that appear to have been prepared with handicaps in mind. Produced in-house, we have released The Dark Horses Jumps Booklet a full month earlier than in the past. The popular Champion Hurdle and Gold Cup previews appeared in selected bumper editions of the Weekend Card in November 2022. Past copies available on request. Available to download instantly. - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2022/23 E-Book ONLY](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2022-23-e-book-only-copy/) - An essential guide to this year's unexposed graduates from the point-to-point field. This product is an E-Book only. Instant download after ordering. - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2022/23 Hard Copy & PDF Copy bundle](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2022-23-hard-copy-pdf-copy-bundle/) - A popular and essential book for any National Hunt fan. This bundle offers readers both a hard copy to flick through at home and also an e-version to refer to when on the move. Dispatched daily - mid-season reduction now available E-Book available to download instantly after ordering. Other purchase options: E-Book only here - [The National Hunt Guide 2021/22 E-Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-national-hunt-guide-2021-22-e-book/) - Marten Julian’s National Hunt Annual has, for over four decades, become established as the season’s most authoritative guide to unexposed horses and recruits from Ireland and France. The annual also includes Marten’s in-depth previews of the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle, together with Jodie Standing’s choice nominations from the bumper field. Available to download now instantly after ordering. A separate list of featured horses is also available to download instantly after ordering as a handy reference sheet. E-Book only option. - [Weekend Card 12 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-12-april/) - Edition 326 - Aintree Grand National Edition Last edition of the Jumps season 2022/23, our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Includes Marten Julian's Grand National Preview - a seperate publication released 13 April 2023. Both publications available to download instantly after ordering. - [The National Hunt Guide 2021/22 Bundle](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-national-hunt-guide-2021-22-bundle/) - Marten Julian’s National Hunt Annual has, for over four decades, become established as the season’s most authoritative guide to unexposed horses and recruits from Ireland and France. The annual also includes Marten’s in-depth previews of the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle, together with Jodie Standing’s choice nominations from the bumper field. Paperback dispatched daily. E-book available to download instantly after ordering. - [Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2019/20 with PDF](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-jumps-guide-2019-20-with-pdf/) - Marten Julian's Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2019/20 The original guide to the Jumps with Marten's unique thoughts & observations. Hard copy & instant download of E-book Access to a secret webpage listing entries from the book throughout the season. List of horses to follow available now. - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2021/22 Hard Copy & PDF Copy bundle](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2021bookbundle/) - E-book available to download now - instantly after ordering! Hard copies are dispatched daily from Monday to Friday. - [Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2020 E-Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-jumps-guide-2020-e-book/) - E-Book only option The Dark Horses Jumps Guide, now fast approaching its 50th year, is tried and tested as the authoritative source of information about unexposed and unraced horses to help guide you. Essential long-term reference material. A 146 page book (including index) enhanced with photographs. - [Weekend Card 8 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-8-march/) - Edition 321 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Available to download instantly after ordering! - [Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2019/20 E-book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-jumps-guide-2019-20-ebook/) - Marten Julian's Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2019/20 E-Book only The original guide to the Jumps with Marten's unique thoughts & observations. With contributing authors: Jodie Standing & Dan Briden - [Cheltenham Festival Bulletin Book 2019](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/cbb19back/) - Cheltenham Festival Bulletin Book 2019 For reference material long-term - [Dark Horses Annual 2022](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-annual-2022/) - 48th Edition of The Dark Horses Annual Out now & dispatched daily ‘The Newmarket Classics have been and gone – with a success for 2000 Guineas nomination Coroebus – but there is still plenty of information to draw from the Dark Horses Annual, with the majority of the nominations from the Dark Horses section still to run and the popular Dark Handicappers about to spring to life, with one of them lined up for a handicap at Royal Ascot.’ Marten 16 May 2022 Harnessing his 52 years in the business, this latest edition of the Dark Horses contains: The Premier List, The Dark Horses, The Dark Handicappers & The Classic Previews A complimentary copy of the E-Book is available to download instantly. - [Weekend Card 23 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-23-august-2/) - Edition 345 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Instant download after ordering. Marten writes: “This week’s Card features an unexposed horse from the Sleeper section that we have been waiting for entered to run on Tuesday and a sprinter entered for Goodwood on Sunday. Dan Briden has a feature on a handful of unraced two-year-olds and Jodie has news for Cartmel.” Pro rata weekend discount rate now live. - [Weekend Card 17 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-17-may/) - Edition 331 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. The popular and highly-profitable Sleeper section has been amalgamated with the Under The Radar feature and, in the absence of a Dark Horses Guide, the Premier List qualifiers will be published in the Card with updates every week on their forthcoming entries and progress. The Dark Horses section is devoted to some intriguing long-term handicap projects, with big-race targets, a select bunch of unraced and unexposed horses and weekly updates and informed comments as and when the qualifiers have entries. This feature includes some intriguing news from a few shrewdly-run northern yards. With the emphasis throughout the Card on continuity, the Look Aheadis coupled with the Retrospective – my appraisal of how the previous week’s selections, both winners and losers, performed. Our regular contributors Jodie Standing, covering the jumping scene, and sprint handicapper specialist Ian Carnaby will be joined by a monthly feature from Dan Briden, who will pass on his information on unraced two-year-olds of topical interest. - [Weekend Card 10 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-10-may-2/) - Edition 330 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Jodie writes "I may not have had any selections for Newmarket last week but having attended the meeting, I’ve come away with plenty of paddock pointers for the future. I will be sharing those, together with my selections for the weekend, in this week’s Card." - [Weekend Card 13 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-13-march/) - Edition 372 Instant download after ordering. News from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome & Jodie Standing. Marten writes: “We have Gold Cup day on Friday and I am taking on the favourite with one of the outsiders but there is also something of interest on Saturday evening at Wolverhampton and five Premier selections in action. Jodie has something for Uttoxeter and Ronan Groome has news from Ireland for the last two days of Cheltenham.” Fixture highlights - Day 3 & 4 of the Cheltenham Festival and Midlands National Day at Uttoxeter - [Weekend Card 3 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-3-may/) - Edition 329 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Marten writes: “This week’s Card is packed with news for both Newmarket and lower-profile meetings. Four Premier List horses are entered to race and I have three runners at Newmarket to monitor with a view to bigger targets later in the season. I also highlight an eye-catcher that ran down the field at a low-profile meeting in Ireland, while Jodie has views for Hexham on Saturday and Ian Carnaby has a couple for Goodwood on Friday.” - [Weekend Card 19 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-19-april/) - Edition 327 Instant download The popular and highly-profitable Sleeper section will be amalgamated with the Under The Radar feature and, in the absence of a Dark Horses Guide, the Premier List qualifiers will be published in the first edition of the new season on 19thApril, with updates every week on their forthcoming entries and progress. This week's contributors: Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing This is an ideal edition to start to get into the Flat as Dan Briden is our two-year-old specialist. Dan writes: "I am delighted to be back writing for the excellent Weekend Card for the 2023 Flat season. There is plenty to look forward to for the season ahead, including several first-season sires who have some interesting 2yos to go to war with." - [Weekend Card 5 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-5-june/) - Edition 384 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Fixture highlights - The John O’Gaunt Stakes Day at Haydock. Following the excitement of the Derby things quieten down this weekend so we’ve asked Ronan Groome for a few Irish 2yr olds to note with Royal Ascot in mind. The Sleeper section, which nominated 80/1 winner Monkey Island, has runners over the jumps while Marten has nominated a possible handicap plot over hurdles. Available to download instantly after ordering. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 15 November - first edition of the Jumps!](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-15-november-2/) - Edition 357 - the Jumps season starts here! INCLUDES: Marten's Premier List - his horses to follow for the Jumps season! Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Available to download now! See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 4 October](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-4-october-2/) - Edition 351 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Pro rata weekend discount now live! - [Weekend Card 27 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-27-march/) - Edition 374 OUT NOW. The weekend discount is now live. Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome & Jodie Standing. Easter Bank Holiday weekend - All Weather Championships Final at Newcastle and the return of the Flat at Musselburgh. Jumps action at Carlisle and Haydock. Marten writes: “Given the International flavour to this weekend I have recruited the services for this week’s Weekend Card of our Irish contact Ronan Groome for his insights on the Irish National weekend at Fairyhouse and the Irish challenge, including Auguste Rodin, at the World Cup meeting in Dubai.” - [Weekend Card 8 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-8-may/) - Edition 380 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlights - The Boodles May Festival at Chester – including the Dee Stakes on Thursday and the Chester Vase on Friday – and the Swinton Hurdle at Haydock. Out now! See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 29 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-29-may/) - Edition 383 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, & Ian Carnaby. Fixture highlights - The Betfred Derby and Oaks Festival at Epsom with Marten’s preview of these two world-famous Classics. Instant download after ordering. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 14 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-14-august/) - Edition 394 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Premier Race Day Saturday at Newbury and Pontefract on Sunday. Marten writes: “I am particularly excited by this week’s Weekend Card, packed with news from Dan Briden on a host of unraced two-year-olds entered to run, and I have information for two debutants and also an unraced colt for Cork on Friday. I also have something for the Great St Wilfrid.” Out now instant download after ordering. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 7 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-7-august/) - Edition 393 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Marten writes: “This week’s Card includes news for a couple of unraced two-year-olds and a horse that could prove better than handicap class in the Shergar Cup. Ronan Groome has some thoughts for the Phoenix Stakes meeting at the Curragh.” Fixture highlights - Shergar Cup Weekend at Ascot. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 7 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-7-june-2/) - Edition 334 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Instant download. Weekend discount now live. - [Weekend Card 24 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-24-may/) - Edition 332 On a big weekend in Ireland, Ronan Groome is on hand to preview all the best action for the Irish Guineas Festival at the Curragh. Marten writes: “This week’s Card includes an in-depth analysis by Ronan Groome of the Guineas meeting at the Curragh, four selections from Jodie for Cartmel and Ian trying to follow up last week’s 10/1 winner with three for Goodwood.” Available to download tonight. - [Weekend Card 10 January 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-10-january-2/) - Edition 363 Welcome to 2024! This week, our racing publication is packed with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Instant download after ordering. Pro-rata discount rate now live. - [Weekend Card 2 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-2-august/) - Edition 342 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Jodie Standing & Dan Briden. Marten writes:“I advised a couple of two-year-old debutant winners last week and I have another one expected to go close this weekend, together with a blast from the past at Bangor on Friday. Dan Briden has some very obscure recommendations, while Jodie has two for Bangor on Friday and Ian has a couple for the Stewards’ Cup.” - [Weekend Card 17 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-17-april/) - Edition 377 First Flat edition for 2024. This week's edition does not have our standard pro-rata discount offer due to Dan's 12 to follow and the long-term value. Marten writes "I am hugely excited by Dan Briden’s ‘Twelve To Follow’ which appear in this week’s edition of the Weekend Card. They include a handful of lowly-rated unexposed handicap projects, a filly trained in Ireland who finished out of the frame on her sole start, a once-raced French colt with Classic aspirations and a two-year-old showing all the right signs at home. There is a rich variety of choice in this select list but be advised that some of them will be running very soon!" Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian,Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 9 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-9-august-2/) - Edition 343 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Marten writes: “It’s one of the quieter weekends of the summer but Dan Briden has unearthed a number of 2yr olds to watch for, with trainer comments, and we have qualifiers from the Sleeper section and a Premier List horse entered to run.” Price reduced as a quieter week for Marten's information. Instant download after ordering. - [Weekend Card 1 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-1-november-2023/) - Edition 355 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Dan Briden & Jodie Standing. Weekend pro-rata discount now live. Marten writes: “It is a long time since I’ve been as excited about a Weekend Card and, with all my writers in great form, Jodie has some informed news for the northern jump meetings, Dan Briden passes on his views on a few unexposed and unraced two-year-olds and I have five for the Breeders’ Cup.” - [Weekend Card 7 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-7-february-2/) - Edition 367 - half price weekend discount now live. Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlights: Betfair's 'Super Saturday' at Newbury. Also a Premier race day at Warwick on Saturday and Exeter on Sunday. Marten writes: “There is a new look to the Weekend Card which this week includes my advice for the Betfair Hurdle, something for Exeter on Sunday and a 25/1 ante-post selection for Cheltenham. Jodie has news for Ayr on Tuesday and Ian reflects on past runnings of the Betfair Hurdle.” Available to download instantly after ordering. - [Weekend Card 6 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-6-march/) - Edition 371 Out now, instant download. Pro-rata weekend discount now live. Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlights - Day 1 & 2 of the Cheltenham Festival and Betfair Imperial Cup Day at Sandown Marten writes: “ It’s no surprise that the latest Weekend Card is packed with news, although I am pleased to report it is not all about Cheltenham! I have very unexposed Sleeper selections for Warwick and Kelso on Sunday and Jodie has an intriguing long-priced horse for the Cheltenham bumper.” - [Weekend Card 20 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-20-march/) - Edition 373 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Available to download instantly after ordering. Pro rata weekend discount now live. Fixture highlight - the return to the Flat turf for Lincoln Day at Doncaster and Newbury's Jumps Season Finale Marten writes: “I reveal my first ante-post advice of the new Flat season in this week’s Card and Jodie has news for Hexham on Friday and Newcastle next Tuesday. I have a double-figure priced horse for the Lincoln.” - [Weekend Card 15 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-15-may/) - Edition 381 Instant download Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlights - The Al Shaqab Lockinge meeting at Newbury and days two and three of the Dante Festival at York. This week’s Weekend Card is packed with intriguing news, notably for a handicap job over hurdles at Uttoxeter on Saturday evening, a couple of maidens at Newbury, an unexposed handicap hurdler at Kilbeggan and an unraced 2yr old at Navan. This edition also includes a special contibution from Dan Briden who gives his updated thoughts on his Twelve to Follow. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 3 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-3-april/) - Edition 375 Instant download. Weekend pro-rata discount is now live. Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlights - The Go North Jumps Series Finals at Musselburgh, Kelso and Carlisle - [Weekend Card 1 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-1-may/) - Edition 379 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronen Groome & Jodie Standing. Available to download instantly after ordering. Fixture highlights - The Qipco Guineas Festival three-day meeting on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with Marten’s preview of the first two Classics of the season. Marten writes: “We’ve got all angles covered in the Card this weekend, with two double-figure selections for the Newmarket Classics and a newcomer on Saturday evening at Yarmouth, some interesting Sleeper selections at Goodwood, Salisbury and Windsor and news for Punchestown from Ronan Groome and Jodie.” See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 19 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-19-june/) - Edition 386 Pro-rata discount now live. Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Instant download after ordering. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 26 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-27-june-2/) - Edition 387 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Instant download after ordering. Marten writes: “The latest edition of the Weekend Card features Ronan Groome’s in-depth analysis of the three-day Irish Derby meeting at the Curragh. Ian Carnaby has news for Newcastle and I have something for Bangor on Friday evening.” Fixture highlights - The Northumberland Plate three-day meeting and a two-day meeting at Cartmel. This edition will also include Irish contact Ronan Groome’s preview of the Irish Derby. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 3 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-3july-24/) - Edition 388 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Instant download after ordering. Fixture highlights - The Coral Summer Festival two-day meeting at Sandown featuring the Coral Eclipse. Ronan Groome is naming a few Irish two-year-olds to keep an eye on in this week’s Card! See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 24 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-24-july/) - Edition 391 - out now with weekend card discount rate Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. This week’s Weekend Card features news for a couple of two-year-olds from low-profile yards and Ronan Groome’s look ahead to the opening days of next week’s Galway Festival. Fixture highlights - The Qipco King George two-day meeting at Ascot and days one and two of the Qatar Glorious Goodwood Festival. This edition will also include Irish contact Ronan Groome’s preview of the Galway Festival. - [Weekend Card 31 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-31-july/) - Edition 392 Pro rata weekend rate. Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Fixture highlights - Days three, four and five of the Qatar Goodwood Festival. Key Race(s): July 30th- August 3rd Glorious Goodwood Festival. Marten writes: “I have news in this week’s Card for a couple of 2yr old debutants and a highly-regarded filly who is rated superior to her current mark. Dan Briden has written an extensive review of the two-year-old scene, with five to note this weekend.” See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 25 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-25-september/) - Edition 400 - out now with instant download Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Premier Race Day Saturday at Haydock Park and Newmarket. This edition will also include a special contribution from Dan Briden. Key Races: 22nd- 28th Listowel Harvest Festival. 26th- 28th Cambridgeshire Meeting Newmarket. See a back copy by clicking here - [The Two-Year-Old Guide 2022](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-guide-2022/) - Written by Dan Briden & team Following the success and positive feedback of our 2020 and 2021 editions, we were thrilled to publish a third edition of our Two-Year-Old Guide. Dan Briden interviewed dozens of the country’s leading and lower-profile trainers, bloodstock agents and owners, to learn what they had to say about their two-year-olds. Long-term value. A 400+ -page book (including index) enhanced with photographs. Click here to view a review from Racing Ahead magazine E-Book available to download instantly after ordering. Hard copies dispatched daily. - [Weekend Card 4 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-28-august/) - Edition 397 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ronan Groome & Ian Carnaby. Marten writes: ‘The main feature of this week’s Card is Ronan Groome’s assessment of the Irish two-year-old scene, while I have four horses from the Sleeper section entered to run with one intriguing addition to the list.’ Premier Race Day Saturday at Haydock Park and Kempton Park and on Sunday at York. See a back copy by clicking here - [The Two-Year-Old Guide Package](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/twoyearoldpackage/) - PACKAGE OFFER - ALL THREE BOOKS & EBOOKS! Each Ebook PDF is instantly available to download PLUS all three books will be sent to you in the post. Fantastic reference material. Each year, Dan Briden interviewed dozens of the country’s leading and lower-profile trainers, bloodstock agents and owners, to learn what they have to say about their current crop of two-year-olds. Each section includes an extensive profile of the horse’s pedigree together with direct quotes from the connections. Extensive Indexes in each book. 2020 edition - 312 pages 2021 edition - 370 pages 2022 edition - 413 pages Dan contributes to our Weekend Card and his latest publication for 2024 is available here. - [Weekend Card 28 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-28-august-2/) - Edition 396 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Premier Race Day Saturday at Chester and Sandown Park Marten writes: “This week’s Weekend Card features a fascinating piece by Dan Briden about a few unraced and lightly-raced two-year-olds with entries over the next few days. I have a colt in double-figures for the Solario Stakes at Sandown and a similarly priced horse for the Irish Cambridgeshire at the Curragh.” - [Weekend Card 21 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-21august/) - Edition 395 With pro-rata weekend discount. Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Ronan Groome. Premier Race Day Saturday and Sunday at Goodwood and at York on Saturday. Key Race(s): 21st- 24th York Ebor Festival See a back copy by clicking here - [Daily Bulletin Glorious Goodwood Meeting 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-glorious-goodwood-meeting-2024/) - Daily Bulletin Glorious Goodwood Meeting Tuesday 30th July to Saturday 3rd August With highly competitive racing across a full range of distances, Glorious Goodwood's idiosyncratic course presents a unique challenge for it's competitors. Marten did well for his subscribers last season, yielding a 67% profit thanks to Johan at 25/1 and Executive Decision at 9/1 and others besides. You will receive an email on the day of the meeting by noon providing Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. Day four out now. - [Daily Bulletin Ascot King George Meeting 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-ascot-king-george-meeting-2024/) - Daily Bulletin Ascot King George Meeting - Day One out now Friday 26th July and Saturday 27th July The QIPCO King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes stands alongside the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe as one of Europe’s all-aged middle-distance championship races. The top-class support card also has plenty to offer. You will receive an email on the day of the meeting by noon providing Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. - [Daily Bulletin Epsom Derby & Oaks Meeting 2024](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/daily-bulletin-epsom-derby-oaks-meeting-2024/) - Daily Bulletin Epsom Derby & Oaks Meeting Friday 31 May to Saturday 1 June Famed throughout the world as one of racing's greatest spectacles. This is where Marten's love for racing began. Marten writes: "There will be over 100 runners over the two days so it is very important to ensure that we stay focused on horses that should act, or have experience, around this unique track. I have a double-figure selection for the Oaks and a couple of well-treated horses in the handicaps. There may be a two-year-old as well, but I am still waiting to hear more on that one." You will receive an email on the day of the meeting by noon providing Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. - [The Two-Year-Old Prospects 2023](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-prospects-2023/) - Join Dan Briden as he delves into the captivating world of promising backend two-year-old prospects who have the potential to shine on the Classic stage next year. Additionally, he will reflect on the standout performances of the top-performing juveniles from the highly acclaimed 2022 edition of the Two-Year-Old Guide. Don't miss out on this insightful journey that uncovers future racing stars. Dan writes: “I have assessed a variety of leading stables’ two-year-olds, focusing particularly on the later-developing types and those that haven’t fully revealed their potential. I have also identified their unraced youngsters that could be intriguing prospects for the upcoming autumn and spring seasons, in the hope that a couple of them might emerge as genuine Classic contenders.” The Two-Year-Prospects covers both those who have raced and what their future potentially holds and also lightly-raced, later-developing types who have yet to be fully tested. Also featured are those yet to get off the mark or race but who have the potential to make an impact, be it on paper or the evidence of their first run. Complimentary Ebook available now - Instant download available after ordering. Dispatched daily £11 - [Weekend Card 28 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-28-february-2/) - Edition 370 50% weekend discount now live! Instant download after ordering. Written by Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing Fixture highlights - bet365 Morebattle Hurdle Day at Kelso and the Grimthorpe Chase at Doncaster Marten writes: “Cheltenham may be just a few days away but I have a lowly-rated handicapper for the AW on Saturday evening that I’ve waited a long time for and a novice handicap hurdler at Newcastle on Tuesday. Jodie has news for Doncaster and Kelso and an ante-post recommendation for one of the handicaps at Cheltenham.” - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2023/24 E-Book ONLY](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2023-24-e-book-only/) - Pro-rata discount now live Bursting with over 90 undiscovered horses from the pointing world set to embark on their careers under Rules, Jodie has once again left no stone unturned in her quest to help readers stay ahead of the game. Instant download after ordering. - [Weekend Card 21 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-14-february-2/) - Edition 369 Instant download after ordering. Pro-rata 50% discount now live. Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlight - Coral Trophy Day at Kempton, which stages the Grade 2 Pendil Novices' Chase, the Grade 2 Adonis Juvenile Hurdle and the Grade 2 Dovecote Novices' Hurdle Marten writes: “Cheltenham will soon be upon us, but it’s an interesting weekend with three previously noted long-absent horses returning to action, one on the AW and two over jumps. Jodie has news for Ayr on Monday and Ian has two for Southwell on Saturday.” - [Weekend Card 14 February](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-14-february-3/) - Edition 368 Mid-weekend discount now live Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Fixture highlights include - Haydock's Grand National Trial, the Grade 1 Ascot Chase and the Grade 2 Reynoldstown Novices' Chase. Marten writes: “We have a tremendous Weekend Card this week, with Jodie nominating unexposed horses for Carlisle on Monday and I have a very dark hurdling debutant for Market Rasen on Tuesday. Ian Carnaby has written a superb piece about the Reynoldstown Chase and we have one from the Premier List and one from the Sleeper section entered to run.” Instant download after ordering. - [Weekend Card 31 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-31-january-2/) - Edition 366 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Jodie Standing & Ronan Groome. Ronan Groome is back this week to preview a top class weekend of racing in Ireland where the Dublin Racing Festival plays host to an array of stars! See a back copy by clicking here Instant download after ordering. 50% weekend discount now live. - [Weekend Card 24 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-24-january-2/) - Edition 365 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. 50% weekend discount now live. Marten writes: “With the worst of the weather now gone Cheltenham plays host to a wonderful day of action on Saturday, with trials for the Festival in March. I have something for the AW on Saturday evening and we have a recently added Sleeper qualifier entered on Tuesday. Jodie has news for a very unexposed handicap debutant - form reads 000 - at Uttoxeter. This promises to be the most informative weekend of the season.” - [Weekend Card 17 January](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-17-january-2/) - Edition 364 Marten says:With uncertainty about the racing over the next few days I have asked Jodie and Ian to join me in passing on some long-term thoughts for Cheltenham. I also have something for the AW on Friday and highlight a couple of long-absent horses to keep an eye on. Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Weekend 50% discount now live. See a back copy by clicking here - [Weekend Card 21 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-20-december/) - Edition 362 - final edition of the year! Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome & Jodie Standing for the Festive period. Available to download instantly after ordering. - [Weekend Card 13 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-13-december-2/) - Edition 361 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. It saves money to join on a subscription. View our five-week subscription here. Weekend discount rate now live. - [Weekend Card 6 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-6-december-2/) - Edition 360 Weekend discount rate now live. Weekly magazine filled with 26 pages of content on the next few day's racing and long-term information and reference. Marten writes: “Following last week’s success with a 10/1 winner from the Sleeper section and Jodie’s 22/1 winner she fancies an unexposed handicap debutant, beaten about 150 lengths in his three runs, to take note of at Cork together with other intriguing thoughts.” Instant download after ordering. - [Weekend Card 29 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-29-november-2/) - Edition 359 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome & Jodie Standing. Marten writes: It’s a big weekend at Newbury and Newcastle, weather permitting, but I am most interested in an old friend who is entered for a low-profile meeting next week. The Weekend Card also includes two new names for the Sleeper section, while Jodie has a few gems and Ronan covers the Irish scene. Ronan Groome writes: After two very successful newly inaugurated Jumps festivals at Navan and Punchestown, we move on to Fairyhouse’s more traditional Winter Festival meeting, and in particular a triple Grade 1 card on Sunday that always resonates with jumps fans. - [Weekend Card 22 November](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-22-november-2/) - Edition 358 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Ronan Groome & Jodie Standing. Ronan Groome joins us this week: "The Punchestown Winter Festival features the Grade 1 Morgiana Hurdle and Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Chase and Ronan Groome is on hand to preview all the action over both days in the Weekend Card this week." Marten writes: “Some of the biggest jump racing stars appear at Punchestown this weekend, but Jodie and I have our eyes on a well-handicapped chaser for one of the staying handicaps at Haydock. A relatively unexposed Premier List horse is declared for Ireland on Friday while Jodie, bang in form at present, has thoughts for a few of the lower profile meetings over the next few days.” Instant download after ordering. A pro-rata weekend discount is available now. - [The Daily Bulletin Service - Newmarket Future Champions Festival](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/newmarket-future-champions-festival/) - The highlight of The Newmarket Gold Season, the Dubai Future Champions Festival, provides top class racing, as the sport looks to unearth potential stars for the following campaign.The quality of action on the Rowley Mile across the two days is nothing short of breathtaking, with seven Group races run across the Friday and the Saturday. Meeting: Newmarket Future Champions Festival Date: October 13 & 14 Price: £15 / £7 pro rata rate now live You will receive an email each day of the meeting by noon providing Marten’s analysis of the day’s racing events. Emailed directly to you from Marten by noon. Also available to download. - [Weekend Card 27 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-27-september-2/) - Edition 350 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby and Jodie Standing. Available to download instantly after ordering. Marten writes: “This week’s special edition of the Weekend Card features my 2,000-word preview of Sunday’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, a race in which I have a great record stretching back to 54/1 winner Gold River in 1981. The Card also includes a long-priced one for the Prix du Cadran, something for the Cambridgeshire and a dark one for the jumps at Southwell on Tuesday.” - [Weekend Card 6 September](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-6-september-2/) - Edition 347 Marten writes: “Ian Carnaby shot into form last weekend with his three elections in the Weekend Card all winning at 6/1, 11/2 and 9/2 to build on Jodie Standing’s 16/1 winner a week earlier at Cartmel. “We have a great weekend coming up, with the Irish Champions Festival and the big sprint at Haydock. “There are no less than six Group 1 races at the Irish Champions Festival in Ireland this weekend. In this week's edition of the Weekend Card, our man on the ground Ronan Groome is on hand to preview them all and more at Leopardstown and the Curragh.” Available to download instantly after ordering. - [Weekend Card 30 August](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-30-august-2/) - Edition 346 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Jodie Standing & Dan Briden. - [Weekend Card 19 July](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-19-july-2/) - Edition 340 Our weekly racing publication packed with news from: Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby, Jodie Standing and Ronan Groome The Irish Oaks takes centre stage on a top class weekend of racing in Ireland this week and Ronan Groome is on hand to preview the biggest races and handicaps. Instant download after ordering. - [Weekend Card 28 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-28-june-2/) - Edition 337 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Instant download after ordering. Pro-rata weekend discount now live. - [Weekend Card 31 May](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-31-may-2/) - Edition 333 Derby & Oaks weekend Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Available to download instantly after ordering. - [Weekend Card 14 June](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-14-june/) - Edition 335 Our weekly racing publication packed this week with news from Marten Julian, Dan Briden & Ian Carnaby. Jodie offers a brief update. Marten writes: “Royal Ascot starts on Tuesday and we have some early thoughts for the first three days of the meeting, but the highlight of this week’s Card is Dan Briden’s news direct from trainers and connections on their two-year-old runners this weekend.” - [Cheltenham Festival Bulletin Book 2023 (Classic Package)](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/cheltenham-festival-bulletin-book-2023-classic-package/) - Our guide to the 2023 Cheltenham Festival. Our 44th year of covering the Festival! Our last edition! Posted daily First Class The Cheltenham Bulletin Book The Handicaps Booklet The Stat Attack A brief daily email or text message update Instant download after ordering. If you live abroad and don't require it posting please click here - [The Two-Year-Old Guide 2022 E-book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-guide-2022-ecopy/) - Instant Download Written by Dan Briden & team Following the success and positive feedback of our 2020 and 2021 editions, we were thrilled to publish a third edition of our Two-Year-Old Guide. Dan Briden interviewed dozens of the country’s leading and lower-profile trainers, bloodstock agents and owners, to learn what they had to say about their two-year-olds. Long-term value. A 400+ -page E-book (including index) enhanced with photographs. - [Weekend Card 26 April](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-26-april/) - Edition 328 In this week's edition we welcome back guest contributor Ronan Groome who is on hand to preview the final two days of the top class Punchestown Racing Festival. Marten writes: “A packed Card this week, with almost 9,000 words including five well-informed selections for the last two days of Punchestown from Ronan Groome, Jodie Standing’s news for Perth and Ian Carnaby has something for Musselburgh on Sunday. My news includes a dark one for Windsor on Monday, a very unexposed hurdler for Punchestown on Saturday and a multiple Lucky 15 on the first four Classics, with the four-timer alone returning odds of just short of 100,000 to 1.” Available to download instantly after ordering. Weekend discount available now. - [Dark Horses Jumps Booklet 2022/23](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-jumps-booklet-2022-23/) - Marten’s Dark Horses Jumps Booklet has been produced in a different format this year in order to allow us to meet an earlier publication date. The Dark Horses features Marten’s highly select Premier List of horses to follow – last year’s feature included subsequent Arkle winner Edwardstone - and a Dark Horses section, comprising horses drawn from the ranks of imports, bumpers and unexposed horses that appear to have been prepared with handicaps in mind. Produced in-house, we have released The Dark Horses Jumps Booklet a full month earlier than in the past. The popular Champion Hurdle and Gold Cup previews will now appear in selected bumper editions of the Weekend Card. OUT NOW. INSTANT DOWNLOAD & POSTED DAILY - [Weekend Card 29 March](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-29-march/) - Edition 324 Our weekly racing publication with news from Marten Julian, Ian Carnaby & Jodie Standing. Available to download instantly after ordering. 50% mid weekend discount now live. - [Weekend Card 20 July Anniversary Edition](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-20-july-22/) - Edition 290 (King George weekend) instant download “It’s here – the bumper Anniversary edition of the Weekend Card, almost 16,000 words and including features from Brough Scott and Rebecca and a look back by me on how it all started almost 50 years ago. This edition also includes news from France by Jordan Hopkins, my preview of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, some gems from Dan Briden and a horse to watch for next week at Galway.” Marten Featuring Marten Julian, Dan Briden, Ian Carnaby, Jordan Hopkins, Ronan Groome, Rebecca Julian-Dixon & Jodie Standing Guest contributor: Brough Scott Six-year since relaunch anniversary special with a retro theme looking back across our 52 years in the industry. 56 pages - [Weekend Card 15 December](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/weekend-card-14-december/) - “With no racing on turf on Saturday I have asked Ian and Jodie to join me in previewing the Christmas programme, including my 2,000-word analysis of the King George VI Chase and our thoughts for the Coral Welsh Grand National. Included in this 9,000-word plus edition are insights from Jodie and me on Irish racing and lower-profile meetings.” Instant download after ordering to enjoy the week before Christmas! - [The Two-Year-Old Guide 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-guide2020/) - Written by Dan Briden with Marten Julian Dan Briden has interviewed dozens of the country’s leading and lower-profile trainers, bloodstock agents and owners, to learn what they have to say about their current crop of two-year-olds. Featuring insights from 60 people including trainers Andrew Balding, Karl Burke, Roger Charlton, William Haggas, Jessica Harrington, Mark Johnston. A 312 page book (including index) enhanced with photographs. Pro-rata mid-season price - [The Two-Year-Old Guide 2021](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/thetwoyearoldguide2021/) - Written by Dan Briden Mid-season pro rata rate. Includes free review of the 2021 Flat Season (published Nov 2021) Following the success and positive feedback of our 2020 edition we are thrilled to have published the second edition of our Two-Year-Old Guide. Dan Briden interviewed dozens of the country’s leading and lower-profile trainers, bloodstock agents and owners, to learn what they have to say about their current crop of two-year-olds. A 360-page book (including index) enhanced with photographs. Complimentary E-Book available instantly after ordering. - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2019/20 - Hard Copy](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2019-20/) - An in-depth guide to unexposed horses from the point-to-point field who are set to run under Rules for their new connections. - [Cheltenham Festival Bulletin Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/cheltenham-festival-bulletin-2020/) - 41st Edition Our guide to the Cheltenham Festival Includes The Festival Handicaps booklet, Stats sheet & Glance Card - [Dark Horses Autumn E-Guide 2018](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-autumn-eguide-2018/) - Dark Horses Autumn Guide 2018 is packed with information and pedigree profiles of dozens of unraced or lightly-raced two-year-olds and a handful of older horses that have been specially prepared for autumn campaigns. The profit to level stakes is over 50 points with a return on investment of 139%. Instant download - [Dark Horses Autumn Guide 2019](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-autumn-guide-2019/) - Marten's sequel to the Dark Horses Annual for the Flat Instant download of PDF copy Read more below - [Dark Horses Annual 2019](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-annual-2019/) - Marten's Guide to the Flat season E-Book available now Posted daily First Class - [The Two-Year-Old Guide 2020 E-Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-guide-2020-ebook/) - Instant download after ordering. Dan Briden has interviewed dozens of the country’s leading and lower-profile trainers, bloodstock agents and owners, to learn what they have to say about their current crop of two-year-olds. Featuring insights from 60 people including trainers Andrew Balding, Karl Burke, Roger Charlton, William Haggas, Jessica Harrington, Mark Johnston. Written by Dan Briden with Marten Julian - [Dark Horses Annual 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-annual-2020/) - The perfect companion for the 2020 Flat Season and for long-term reference. 44th edition of this book Includes: Dark Horses Annual 2020 Dark Horses Autumn Update. Released 11 October - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2020/21](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2020-21/) - An essential guide for long-term reference of last year's unexposed graduates from the point-to-point field. Includes complimentary E-book. - [Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2020](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-jumps-guide-2020/) - The Dark Horses Jumps Guide, now fast approaching its 50th year, is tried and tested as the authoritative source of information about unexposed and unraced horses to help guide you through the 2020/21 Jumps season. A 146 page book (including index) enhanced with photographs. Back copy from last Jump's season but full of valid and long-term information. Just £5 - [Dark Horses Annual 2021](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/darkhorsesannual2021/) - The perfect companion for the 2021 Flat Season and for long-term reference. Marten’s latest Dark Horses Guide is packed with insights and observations to guide you through the new Flat season. 47th edition Includes The Premier List, The Dark Horses, The Dark Handicappers & The Classic Contenders. Buy E-Book by clicking here - [Dark Horses Jumps Guide 2019/20](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-jumps-guide-2019-20/) - The original guide to the Jumps with Marten's unique thoughts & observations. Horses to follow available to download after ordering. - [The Two-Year-Old Guide 2021 E-Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-two-year-old-guide-2021-ebook/) - E-Book Written by Dan Briden Following the success and positive feedback of our 2020 edition, we are thrilled to be publishing a second edition of our Two-Year-Old Guide. Dan Briden has interviewed dozens of the country’s leading and lower-profile trainers, bloodstock agents and owners, to learn what they have to say about their current crop of two-year-olds. A 360-page book (including index) enhanced with photographs. E-Book available instantly after ordering. Flat Review now included! - [Not Minding That It Hurts](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/not-minding-that-it-hurts/) - By Ian Carnaby A committed horse player for the better part of 50 years, he has never had a betting account closed. This engaging ramble through a risk-taker's life may explain why. A 128 page book (including index) enhanced with illustrations and photographs. - [Dark Horses Annual 2021 E-Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-annual-2021-e-book/) - E-Book Written by Marten Julian The perfect companion for the 2021 Flat Season and for long-term reference. Available now - instant download. 47th edition of this book Pro- rata discount. - [Dark Horses Annual & The Two-Year-Old Guide E-books](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dha2yopack/) - E-Book (download) option only. Package of: The Dark Horses Annual The Dark Horses Annual Autumn Update The Two-Year-Old Guide With instant download - [Dark Horses Annual 2020 E-Book](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/dark-horses-annual-2020-ebook/) - The perfect companion for the 2020 Flat Season. Autumn Update out now & included Please note this is the download only option. 44th edition of this book - [The Point-To-Point Recruits 2018/19](https://www.martenjulian.com/product/the-point-to-point-recruits-2018-19/) - Jodie Standing's point-to-point book. In-depth analysis of about 80 horses - read to learn about potential future stars Fantastic results! Great feedback from readers. SOLD OUT E-Book only still available here Latest 2019/20 edition available here ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.martenjulian.com/category/uncategorized/) - [Marten's Current Racing Diary](https://www.martenjulian.com/category/martens-racing-diary/) - Marten’s journal offers readers a discerning and incisive retrospective on recent events in the racing world. His observations will, on occasions, point the way to future winners while at the same time guide the reader to the fundamental principles which have served him so well over almost four decades. - [Marten's Perspective](https://www.martenjulian.com/category/martens-perspective/) - Marten passes comment & opinion on racing issues, often expressing views that will not be found in the trade press. Click on the green button to read. - [Ian Carnaby's Racing News](https://www.martenjulian.com/category/ian-carnabys-news/) - There is plenty to be said for analysing results, especially where recent selections are concerned, because some horses are worth backing again after an apparent disappointment and some must be left strictly alone. It would be fair to say that Ian’s closest involvement is with quality sprinters on the flat and handicap/long-distance hurdlers over jumps. Ian is kept busy on the racecourse but follows most sports – which is also covered in this blog. - [Rebecca's Spotlight](https://www.martenjulian.com/category/rebeccas-spotlight/) - Our Office Manager keeps you up to date with her news, thoughts and reviews. In her latest issue she is discussing our website and new service The Postscript. - [Marten Julian's Guest Contributor News](https://www.martenjulian.com/category/marten-julians-guest-contributor-news/) - There is no article currently available. Sorry! Coming soon: Hannah Julian’s experience of being on the BHA Graduate Scheme and working with Cartmel racecourse. - [Ian Carnaby's Sports News](https://www.martenjulian.com/category/ian-carnabys-sports-news/) - Ian Carnaby is kept busy on the racecourse but follows most sports – which is also covered in this blog. 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