We send four up to Newcastle on Tuesday, where the going is currently described as good to soft.
Monaco Rules is first up at 2.25.pm, in the two and a half miles novice hurdle, where he will be partnered by Brian Hughes. Monaco Rules was the winner of three flat races and a hurdles race in France before joining the yard. He was a very respectable fifth on stable debut at Haydock in December, and then on his most recent start he finished third at Market Rasen.
Coup De Coeur will carry the same colours at 2.55.pm, in the 0-120 novices handicap hurdle, over two miles, with his regular rider Brian Hughes in the saddle. Coup De Coeur was the winner of two hurdles races last term, and made a very encouraging British chase debut for us when finishing second at Wetherby in November, his next race probably came too soon 11 days later when not building on that initial run, when finishing third. He has had a nine weeks break since, as he goes in search of win number three.
Carrigeen Castle was one of our great successes last season, winning on three occasions, which saw his mark climb from 94 to 119. He was well down the field on his seasonal debut at Bangor in November, but made a significant step forward to finish third at Newcastle in December, signifying that he is returning to his best form. Carrigeen Castle goes to post for the 0-125 handicap chase, over two miles and seven furlongs at 3.30.pm, with Brian Hughes taking the ride.
Donny's Fortune ran in 12 British point to points, winning twice and finishing third a further three times before joining the yard last autumn. He has raced in three maiden hurdles races for us since, and is yet to get competitive, but this handicap debut gives him a more realistic chance, from a basement mark of 78. Donny's Fortune runs at 4.05.pm, in the 0-100 novices conditional handicap hurdle, over two miles and six furlongs, with Joshua Thompson retaining the ride.
To keep up to date with all the latest happenings at Oakwood Stables, Sharp Hill, and Curlew, click on 'NEWS' at www.mickyhammondracing.
Good luck to the connections, John Burnett, The Cheltenham Trail, and The Rat Pack Racing Club.
Carrigeen Castle.
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