We had a tree down in he drive way on Christmas Eve, it was a manic morning trying to get the horses out and feed supplies in! I had planned to take Mr Big out with the Old Berks for the jockeys meet so I had a last minute panic to get a lift as I couldn't get the horse box down the drive. After making our way through all the floods I arrived for the meet just in time. The ground was very water logged, which made the hedges very big. With a field of over 100 there were loose horses everywhere but Mr Big was on a going day and jumped very well, he got through the ground like and old pro, I think we were one of the 20% of the hedge jumping field that didn't take a tumble!
On Christmas Day we rode out the horses that were due to run in the coming days, even the secretary came in for first lot. I won a lovely bottle od Vintage Dom Perignon courtesy of my bet with Simon Beccle and Nicky Henderson winning the trainers championship so we opened that.
Boxing Day started fairly badly as our three box wouldn't start at 5am in the morning to go to Market Rasen, then the two box that went in its place also broke down. With a lot of reorganising we managed to get two horses to Market Rasen and one to Wincanton in time.
Airmens Friend ran his race but he hated the ground and finished third. Shockingtimes didn't jump a fence but managed to finish second. He came back very sore in his back the next day. While at Wincanton Lord of House jumped really well and won his first h'cap chase quite nicely.
On Friday we went to Kempton where Seventh Sky ran tamely, we have since done a wind operation on him as he is not getting home.
On Saturday we worked horses on the grass, Verano, Latelo and the Trans Island gelding all worked really well. We had no runners so I lit the fire and watched the racing. On Sunday we ran Elmore Back at Doncaster, he ran a blinder to finish second to Oscar Hoof a good horse of Nicky Hendersons. We should be able to place him to win his next race.
On Monday I rode two lots out and got soaked to the bone, after I had dried off I went racing to Haydock with Tony Stapleton. I stupidly ran Sands Cove over 2m 4f on heavy ground, he did not get home. His poor run was totally down to trainer error.
We run Lord of House today as I rode him out yesterday and he was extremely fresh and he will love the ground. If he gets beaten today then I have run him to soon.
And then tomorrow will be 2014! Happy New Year.
Tuesday, 31 December 2013
Monday, 23 December 2013
23.12.13
We schooled 5 horses last Thursday, Verano and Almost Gemini are very quick over their hurdles.
I went to Bill Rees memorial service on Thursday, it was a lovely service and I saw a lot of my old weighing room colleagues. We ran Who Owns Me that day at Towcester. Harry Bannister rode him to take some weight off, unfortunately they fell at the 8th fence which was just one of those things, but they were both none the worse the next day for their fall. We will look for another race fairly shortly.
On Friday 2nd Lot went round the home gallop on the grass, all the horses thoroughly enjoyed this - all though I am not sure my staff enjoyed getting their arms pulled out! I also had a lot of visitors that morning, Tony Holt and Ian McNabb came to see their horse Verano on the gallops, Noel Chance popped round (to use the fax machine!) and Diana Henderson came round to wish me a Merry Christmas.
On Saturday we had Noel Fehily, Mark Grant and James Davies in to ride work 1st lot. Seventh Sky, Lord of House and Latelo worked extremely well on the grass up back of the hill. When Noel Fehily says that a horse is an aeroplane a trainer sits up and takes note, so I am looking for a nice bumper for Latelo shortly. After the horses worked I went shooting in the woods behind my house, it rained all morning and I got absolutely soaked. After a hot bath I carried on the Christmas festivities by attending two different drinks parties!
I had a lovely evening last night at Olympia in Nigel and Ros Kempners box, it was a very entertaining evening and always one of the highlights of this time of year for me.
This morning we had several owners in and have been hit with nothing short of Hurricane Katrina all day! I declared Airmens Friend and Shockingtimes at Market Rasen on Boxing day, they would not want the ground any softer so I will be keeping an eye on the amount of rain they have over the next couple of days. Lord Of House is declared at Wincanton, he will enjoy the mud so I hope it is on.
Wednesday, 18 December 2013
18.12.13
I managed to run out of oil for the heating in my house and the aga on Friday night so I spent most of the weekend in the hot tub trying to keep warm!
On Saturday morning Shockingtimes and Elmore Back worked very well on the bank, they are exactly where I want them. I will be looking to run them both over the next two weeks. On Saturday night I went to James and Clare Lucks Christmas drinks in the village. It was very busy and great fun, everybody was really getting in to the Christmas spirit!
On Sunday Michael and Judy Maynard came down for lunch at the Plough in Eastbury, it was nice to catch up with them both over some good food. I had sent Airmen's Friends to Southwell only to then take him out as the ground became to soft. It was a shame a it looked a good race for him and he is ready for a run. I will look for something else as soon as possible.
On Monday the oil was delivered with meant normality could resume at Neardown. We have had a lot of rain here now and the ground is quite soft, I will be getting the horses out on the grass as much as I can.
The horses all did one canter up the bank on Monday then did two canters up on Tuesday. Plum Stone is in great form, cantering away nicely. She has been re clipped and has a great shine to her coat. All the horses look really well in their coats and are feeling very well. Area Access now has a h'cap mark so he will be upped in work after an easy week and we will crack on now to try and win a race.
Almost Gemini and Verano worked together this morning up back of the hill gallop, they did a good bit impressing their jockeys. They are two very nice horses. Dragon City is going nicely and looks as though he will be a nice 3yo, he has really filled out since he arrived. Sureness and Portmoarch who are the other two new arrivals have had a quiet time since they have arrived but I am now starting to pick up their work and they are going well. Seventh Sky who worked with Attimo this morning is working exceptionally well and is looking fitter every day. I didn't give Low Gales to much of easy time after his last run as he can be quite a stuffy horse, he worked again today and seems to be tightening up for it.
On Saturday morning Shockingtimes and Elmore Back worked very well on the bank, they are exactly where I want them. I will be looking to run them both over the next two weeks. On Saturday night I went to James and Clare Lucks Christmas drinks in the village. It was very busy and great fun, everybody was really getting in to the Christmas spirit!
On Sunday Michael and Judy Maynard came down for lunch at the Plough in Eastbury, it was nice to catch up with them both over some good food. I had sent Airmen's Friends to Southwell only to then take him out as the ground became to soft. It was a shame a it looked a good race for him and he is ready for a run. I will look for something else as soon as possible.
On Monday the oil was delivered with meant normality could resume at Neardown. We have had a lot of rain here now and the ground is quite soft, I will be getting the horses out on the grass as much as I can.
The horses all did one canter up the bank on Monday then did two canters up on Tuesday. Plum Stone is in great form, cantering away nicely. She has been re clipped and has a great shine to her coat. All the horses look really well in their coats and are feeling very well. Area Access now has a h'cap mark so he will be upped in work after an easy week and we will crack on now to try and win a race.
Almost Gemini and Verano worked together this morning up back of the hill gallop, they did a good bit impressing their jockeys. They are two very nice horses. Dragon City is going nicely and looks as though he will be a nice 3yo, he has really filled out since he arrived. Sureness and Portmoarch who are the other two new arrivals have had a quiet time since they have arrived but I am now starting to pick up their work and they are going well. Seventh Sky who worked with Attimo this morning is working exceptionally well and is looking fitter every day. I didn't give Low Gales to much of easy time after his last run as he can be quite a stuffy horse, he worked again today and seems to be tightening up for it.
Friday, 13 December 2013
13.12.13
On Tuesday I wrote 150 Christmas cards which I do every year, it is not something I enjoy doing! If you don't get one I am sorry but there are 150 people that did!
We had David Crosse, Mark Grant and Peterjon Carberry in to work the horses on Wednesday. It was so heavy with fog that I learnt nothing about the horses as I could only hear their hooves.
On Thursday morning Bill Brindle came down to watch the schooling. We had a good morning schooling the babies. Almost Gemini and Verano schooled very well, they are both really getting the hang of it. Dragon City had his first pop over the baby hurdles and did this really nicely. From then onwards the day went to pot, our horsebox wouldn't start (As someone didn't turn it off properly last time!) after 3 attempts with the breakdown people it still wouldn't start, we had to borrow a box from LRT but still managed to get there in good time.
Always Smiling was out of her depth in a very good mares novice chase at Huntingdon. She will hopefully get a h'cap mark now. She jumped well. Low Gales ran at Taunton and was far to free early on, he therefore did not finish his race. Sands Cove ran his race but he really needs 2m 4f on a flat track or 2m on a stiff track.
On Friday the 13th I ran Lord of House at Bangor, as I am very superstitious I would rather stay in bed today! We put check pieces on him for the first time, as it turned out they were a mistake as he ran to keen and did not enjoy himself.
We have two runners over the weekend. Who Owns Me at Lingfield tomorrow and Airmen's Friend at Southwell on Sunday.
We had David Crosse, Mark Grant and Peterjon Carberry in to work the horses on Wednesday. It was so heavy with fog that I learnt nothing about the horses as I could only hear their hooves.
On Thursday morning Bill Brindle came down to watch the schooling. We had a good morning schooling the babies. Almost Gemini and Verano schooled very well, they are both really getting the hang of it. Dragon City had his first pop over the baby hurdles and did this really nicely. From then onwards the day went to pot, our horsebox wouldn't start (As someone didn't turn it off properly last time!) after 3 attempts with the breakdown people it still wouldn't start, we had to borrow a box from LRT but still managed to get there in good time.
Always Smiling was out of her depth in a very good mares novice chase at Huntingdon. She will hopefully get a h'cap mark now. She jumped well. Low Gales ran at Taunton and was far to free early on, he therefore did not finish his race. Sands Cove ran his race but he really needs 2m 4f on a flat track or 2m on a stiff track.
On Friday the 13th I ran Lord of House at Bangor, as I am very superstitious I would rather stay in bed today! We put check pieces on him for the first time, as it turned out they were a mistake as he ran to keen and did not enjoy himself.
We have two runners over the weekend. Who Owns Me at Lingfield tomorrow and Airmen's Friend at Southwell on Sunday.
Monday, 9 December 2013
09.12.13
On Thursday we schooled 8 horses and they all jumped well. We also loose schooled 2 of the 3yos Dragon City and Portmonarch, even in the wind they were super. Dragon City has a very natural jump and has filled out and grown since we have had him, I like him a lot. He is still for sale and now he has been clipped and come into himself I will get a picture up on the website shortly.
Later on Thursday we ran two horses at Market Rasen, Duke of Monmouth and Stoney Silence and Shockingtimes at Wincanton. Duke of Monmouth ran for 3 fences and pulled himself up, I have no idea why as I thought he might win. He has come out of the race well with no obvious signs pointing towards his poor performance. Stoney Silence had the benefit of the doubt on his first run but not on his second, he will be going down the road now as he doesn't seem to be suited to the racing game.
I went to Wincanton to watch shockingtimes, he would have won by half a minute but for falling at the fourth last. It was very frustrating as he should have won his last two. But he is unscathed so I will find another race for him shortly.
On Friday we went to Sandown with Fine Parchment. Harry bannister rode him, as usual he jumped superbly. Harry gave him a very good ride and he won sticking his head out. There is a nice race for him back at Sandown on January 4th, as he has won his last two their it is probably the right place to go!
We went to Sandown on Saturday for two runners, Area Access had a run round to get a h'cap mark and Seventh Sky ran well up until the 2nd last where he blew up, we knew he would need it and he will come on for the run.
Airmens Friend and Low Gales did a nice piece of work up the bank on Saturday, they we followed by Verano who is a lovely young horse from Germany, now under new ownership of the Hennessy Five Syndicate. I have stepped up his work and he will do his first proper bits this coming week.
Elmore Back has come out of his race well, enjoying his work at home.
The store horses both unnamed have also been doing some canters upsides over the last few mornings, I have been getting them used to being next to other horses and they are both learning quickly.
I had a good dinner party on Saturday night and cooked a very good game and Guinness pie, which went down very well. I then loose schooled Mr Big on Sunday morning before driving to Highworth with him for a meet with the Berks and Bucks drag hounds. Rodney Powell was the field master and Mark Todd, Lucinda Green and I then made up the leading trio. Mr big jumped beautifully, he has restored my confidence in him and my bottle is intact this time!
Later on Thursday we ran two horses at Market Rasen, Duke of Monmouth and Stoney Silence and Shockingtimes at Wincanton. Duke of Monmouth ran for 3 fences and pulled himself up, I have no idea why as I thought he might win. He has come out of the race well with no obvious signs pointing towards his poor performance. Stoney Silence had the benefit of the doubt on his first run but not on his second, he will be going down the road now as he doesn't seem to be suited to the racing game.
I went to Wincanton to watch shockingtimes, he would have won by half a minute but for falling at the fourth last. It was very frustrating as he should have won his last two. But he is unscathed so I will find another race for him shortly.
On Friday we went to Sandown with Fine Parchment. Harry bannister rode him, as usual he jumped superbly. Harry gave him a very good ride and he won sticking his head out. There is a nice race for him back at Sandown on January 4th, as he has won his last two their it is probably the right place to go!
We went to Sandown on Saturday for two runners, Area Access had a run round to get a h'cap mark and Seventh Sky ran well up until the 2nd last where he blew up, we knew he would need it and he will come on for the run.
Airmens Friend and Low Gales did a nice piece of work up the bank on Saturday, they we followed by Verano who is a lovely young horse from Germany, now under new ownership of the Hennessy Five Syndicate. I have stepped up his work and he will do his first proper bits this coming week.
Elmore Back has come out of his race well, enjoying his work at home.
The store horses both unnamed have also been doing some canters upsides over the last few mornings, I have been getting them used to being next to other horses and they are both learning quickly.
I had a good dinner party on Saturday night and cooked a very good game and Guinness pie, which went down very well. I then loose schooled Mr Big on Sunday morning before driving to Highworth with him for a meet with the Berks and Bucks drag hounds. Rodney Powell was the field master and Mark Todd, Lucinda Green and I then made up the leading trio. Mr big jumped beautifully, he has restored my confidence in him and my bottle is intact this time!
Tuesday, 3 December 2013
03.12.13
Andy Stone and Bridget came to stay for the weekend, they came up to watch the horses on the gallops on Saturday morning. For 2nd lot I worked 6 horses round 'back of the hill' gallop. Attimo and Fine Parchment worked nicely as did Who Owns Me and Duke of Monmouth. Stoney Silence also did a good bit.
We all then went to Newbury for the Hennessy, I was a guest of Tim Fitzgerald O'Connor in his box for lunch. I managed to sell Verano to a new partnership who are all friends of Tim's. When I got back from Newbury I found that Lily my little dog had disappeared out of the cat flap, we spent most of that evening and the weekend looking for her as much as we could.
On Sunday morning we took two horses to Newbury for a racecourse gallop. Noel Fehily rode Seventh Sky, he was very pleased with him and will come on a lot for the gallop. I then had a very good lunch at Lucinda Greens to celebrate her birthday followed by my daughters carol service at St Edwards in Oxford.
It was an exhausting weekend and my dog still hadn't turned up. On Monday I rode Shockingtimes who seemed in very good spirits which was more than could be said for me. Then late in the morning I had a phone call from Mark Usher saying he thought he had spotted Lily making her way down the gallops, so Rose and I dashed over to find her heading into my old yard Whitcombe Stables. It was very good to see Lily again as I do need some female companionship! We celebrated her home coming at Monday Lunch Club in the Malt!
I rode Duke Of Monmouth and Who Owns Me this morning, they are both screaming for a run but they will both need some rain. We have a lot of entries over the weekend, the only definite runner is Fine Parchment at Sandown on Friday, I will know more towards the end of the week and much is weather dependent.
We all then went to Newbury for the Hennessy, I was a guest of Tim Fitzgerald O'Connor in his box for lunch. I managed to sell Verano to a new partnership who are all friends of Tim's. When I got back from Newbury I found that Lily my little dog had disappeared out of the cat flap, we spent most of that evening and the weekend looking for her as much as we could.
On Sunday morning we took two horses to Newbury for a racecourse gallop. Noel Fehily rode Seventh Sky, he was very pleased with him and will come on a lot for the gallop. I then had a very good lunch at Lucinda Greens to celebrate her birthday followed by my daughters carol service at St Edwards in Oxford.
It was an exhausting weekend and my dog still hadn't turned up. On Monday I rode Shockingtimes who seemed in very good spirits which was more than could be said for me. Then late in the morning I had a phone call from Mark Usher saying he thought he had spotted Lily making her way down the gallops, so Rose and I dashed over to find her heading into my old yard Whitcombe Stables. It was very good to see Lily again as I do need some female companionship! We celebrated her home coming at Monday Lunch Club in the Malt!
I rode Duke Of Monmouth and Who Owns Me this morning, they are both screaming for a run but they will both need some rain. We have a lot of entries over the weekend, the only definite runner is Fine Parchment at Sandown on Friday, I will know more towards the end of the week and much is weather dependent.
Friday, 29 November 2013
29.11.13
I went to an NTF meeting at Newbury racecourse on Tuesday as I am a member of the council. The usual topics came up, mainly prize money!
Mark Grant and Peterjon Carberry came in on Wednesday morning to ride work. Mark rode Elmore Back and was very happy with him so I declared him for Taunton. Seventh Sky worked really well but needed it. The new horses are all cantering away now; Dragon City, Portmonarch, Verano, Sureness and Almost Gemini, I have to say they are a nice bunch of young horses. They have some size about them and look as though they will all do a job. Later that evening Nicky Henderson very kindly gave me a lift to another meeting, this time for the local jump trainers held by Aintree racecourse. They wined and dined us while we discussed health and safety issues. There was a good turn out and much frivolity! We were all quite amused when we left the restaurant as Jonjo O'Neill's wife Jackie was waiting in the car in the car park acting as his chauffeur for the evening. I wish my wife had waited for me like that!
We schooled 4 horses on Thursday. Verano had his first proper school over hurdles and was brilliant, Noel Fehily really liked him. We let Ben Ffrench-Davies school Mr Big over the National fences - he nearly fell off at the second fence, hopefully he will learn to let his irons down! Especially as this morning he got dropped when one whipped round!
We ran two horses at Taunton on Thursday, Elmore Back ran a blinder in his first novice hurdle. He finished 3rd to The Skyfarmer which is fairly decent horse of Philip Hobbs. Airmen's Friend came fourth on his first start for about 500 days. It was a promising run from him. Mark Grant then gave me a lift back to Membury services where I met Iffy with my car and he drove me to the Savoy Hotel in London for a Charity Dinner for young sports men and women, I didn't get home till 2.30am! But I can safely say there is more of a chance of selling a horse in the Savoy than sitting at home.
I rode Portmonarch this morning, I thought he was a lovely horse despite his feet not touching the ground till after the first canter! Low Gales ran today at Doncaster, although I knew he would need it he ran a really good race to plug on and get 4th, he will come on no end for it.
I have a full house for breakfast tomorrow before everyone heads off to Newbury for the Hennessy, I am sure I will get asked by all who I think will win! Highland Lodge would be the one I fancy.
Mark Grant and Peterjon Carberry came in on Wednesday morning to ride work. Mark rode Elmore Back and was very happy with him so I declared him for Taunton. Seventh Sky worked really well but needed it. The new horses are all cantering away now; Dragon City, Portmonarch, Verano, Sureness and Almost Gemini, I have to say they are a nice bunch of young horses. They have some size about them and look as though they will all do a job. Later that evening Nicky Henderson very kindly gave me a lift to another meeting, this time for the local jump trainers held by Aintree racecourse. They wined and dined us while we discussed health and safety issues. There was a good turn out and much frivolity! We were all quite amused when we left the restaurant as Jonjo O'Neill's wife Jackie was waiting in the car in the car park acting as his chauffeur for the evening. I wish my wife had waited for me like that!
We schooled 4 horses on Thursday. Verano had his first proper school over hurdles and was brilliant, Noel Fehily really liked him. We let Ben Ffrench-Davies school Mr Big over the National fences - he nearly fell off at the second fence, hopefully he will learn to let his irons down! Especially as this morning he got dropped when one whipped round!
We ran two horses at Taunton on Thursday, Elmore Back ran a blinder in his first novice hurdle. He finished 3rd to The Skyfarmer which is fairly decent horse of Philip Hobbs. Airmen's Friend came fourth on his first start for about 500 days. It was a promising run from him. Mark Grant then gave me a lift back to Membury services where I met Iffy with my car and he drove me to the Savoy Hotel in London for a Charity Dinner for young sports men and women, I didn't get home till 2.30am! But I can safely say there is more of a chance of selling a horse in the Savoy than sitting at home.
I rode Portmonarch this morning, I thought he was a lovely horse despite his feet not touching the ground till after the first canter! Low Gales ran today at Doncaster, although I knew he would need it he ran a really good race to plug on and get 4th, he will come on no end for it.
I have a full house for breakfast tomorrow before everyone heads off to Newbury for the Hennessy, I am sure I will get asked by all who I think will win! Highland Lodge would be the one I fancy.
Monday, 25 November 2013
25.11.13
We schooled 6 horses on Thursday, Bill Brindle came in to watch Elmore Back. Everything jumped really nicely. We also schooled 3 of the new horses in the loose school. Verano was brilliant, he showed a lot of natural ability. Almost Gemini and Sureness both took to it well too.
We ran two horses at Market Rasen that day, Area Access and Greyfriars Drummer. Unfortunately the ground was no good for either of them.
We ran Lord Of House at Ascot on Friday and had high hopes for him. He jumped well when he got into a rhythm but struggled to go with them into the home straight. It seems he did not get the trip, he needs 2m on soft ground.
We had 10 in for breakfast on Saturday so it was a very busy morning. Elmore Back worked very well around 'back of the hill' gallop with Mark Grant. Seventh Sky worked really well on the 'bank' gallop, he came from 6 lengths off the leading pair and flew passed them, I struggle to find anything good enough to work with him!
I gave Lucinda Green and Tim Thompson-Jones a lift to Ascot n Saturday. Attimo was disappointing in the first. He blew for a while so needed the race again. Shockingtimes unluckily almost got bought down and unseated Mark at the 4th Fence in the second race.
On Sunday I drove to Towcester and walked the course with Harry Bannister, to give him the benefit of my experience! Unfortunately it was to no avail, Always Smiling got stuck in the ground and although she tries very hard and jumps well she needs better ground. I hurried back to Lambourn for an 80th Birthday lunch at Oaksey House and watched Sands Cove at Exeter who managed to fall at the 2nd last fence. Noel Fehily said he would have won and I think he probably would have. So all in all it was a fairly frustrating weekend.
We have got Seventh Sky in the Gerry Feilden at Newbury on Thursday, he would have to get in to the h'cap to run. Elmore Back has an entry at Taunton on Thursday where he might take his chance.
We ran two horses at Market Rasen that day, Area Access and Greyfriars Drummer. Unfortunately the ground was no good for either of them.
We ran Lord Of House at Ascot on Friday and had high hopes for him. He jumped well when he got into a rhythm but struggled to go with them into the home straight. It seems he did not get the trip, he needs 2m on soft ground.
We had 10 in for breakfast on Saturday so it was a very busy morning. Elmore Back worked very well around 'back of the hill' gallop with Mark Grant. Seventh Sky worked really well on the 'bank' gallop, he came from 6 lengths off the leading pair and flew passed them, I struggle to find anything good enough to work with him!
I gave Lucinda Green and Tim Thompson-Jones a lift to Ascot n Saturday. Attimo was disappointing in the first. He blew for a while so needed the race again. Shockingtimes unluckily almost got bought down and unseated Mark at the 4th Fence in the second race.
On Sunday I drove to Towcester and walked the course with Harry Bannister, to give him the benefit of my experience! Unfortunately it was to no avail, Always Smiling got stuck in the ground and although she tries very hard and jumps well she needs better ground. I hurried back to Lambourn for an 80th Birthday lunch at Oaksey House and watched Sands Cove at Exeter who managed to fall at the 2nd last fence. Noel Fehily said he would have won and I think he probably would have. So all in all it was a fairly frustrating weekend.
We have got Seventh Sky in the Gerry Feilden at Newbury on Thursday, he would have to get in to the h'cap to run. Elmore Back has an entry at Taunton on Thursday where he might take his chance.
Wednesday, 20 November 2013
20.11.13
On Tuesday morning I rode out two lots, one of these I sat on was a new horse called Almost Gemini. He is a lovely horse to sit on and rides more like a jumper than a flat horse. He won his first 3 races on the flat this year and looks to be a really nice type, I am quite surprised that we still have 1/4 share in him left to sell.
Later on Tuesday I drove down to Windsor and had lunch with Tony and Rita Stapleton, Tony then kindly drove me to Lingfield racecourse. We ran a nice young filly called Plum Stone in the mares bumper, I thought she was quite nice at home but I didn't know she was as good as she is. She won very well by an eased down 6l, she looks a really nice horse for the future. She was bred by Sue Welch who owns her and part of her is leased to some friends and family of mine. The plan is to run her in one more bumper in the new year and then head to Aintree for the Mares Bumper.
We had 5 jockeys in for first lot this morning, D Crosse, M Grant, D Elsworth, T Garner and P Carberry. First lot worked up back of the hill and 2nd lot worked up the bank. The two horses that really caught my eye where Elmore Back and Seventh Sky, both doing a lovely bit easily on the bridle.
We are sending two up to Market Rasen tomorrow. Area Access in the novice hurdle and Greyfriars Drummer in a valuable h'cap hurdle. Area Access seems to have come on since his last run but is still green. It will be Greyfriars Drummer first run back since his injury at the end of last summer so we will know more whether his injury has effected him once he has run.
Later on Tuesday I drove down to Windsor and had lunch with Tony and Rita Stapleton, Tony then kindly drove me to Lingfield racecourse. We ran a nice young filly called Plum Stone in the mares bumper, I thought she was quite nice at home but I didn't know she was as good as she is. She won very well by an eased down 6l, she looks a really nice horse for the future. She was bred by Sue Welch who owns her and part of her is leased to some friends and family of mine. The plan is to run her in one more bumper in the new year and then head to Aintree for the Mares Bumper.
We had 5 jockeys in for first lot this morning, D Crosse, M Grant, D Elsworth, T Garner and P Carberry. First lot worked up back of the hill and 2nd lot worked up the bank. The two horses that really caught my eye where Elmore Back and Seventh Sky, both doing a lovely bit easily on the bridle.
We are sending two up to Market Rasen tomorrow. Area Access in the novice hurdle and Greyfriars Drummer in a valuable h'cap hurdle. Area Access seems to have come on since his last run but is still green. It will be Greyfriars Drummer first run back since his injury at the end of last summer so we will know more whether his injury has effected him once he has run.
Monday, 18 November 2013
18.11.13
We ran a couple of horses on Thursday at Taunton and Ludlow, Western King was 5th with AP McCoy on board. I think the handicapper put him up to much and he struggled to finish his race after the last. I ran Low Gales at Ludlow, I have previously avoided soft ground with him so if I had known the ground was as bad as it was I would not have run him. As it was he hated the going and also slipped on the bend not helping his cause.
I went to Cheltenham on Friday and thoroughly enjoyed the racing from the comfort of Lycetts Box. Later in the evening I went to the Brightwells select sale and tried to buy a horse. They all made far to much money and I came away empty handed. I returned home to a house full of people for supper, including my sister Caroline and her husband Mark, and my brother Robbie and his girlfriend Emma. Saturday morning was fairly hectic with 14 people for breakfast included Tom Swerling who I haven't seen for a while.
Shockingtimes worked really well and Attimo impressed too. We managed to make it to Cheltenham in good time where we had a box for the day. We had 20 odd people in the box for drinks and lunch. It worked really and an everyone enjoyed themselves, it was a great opportunity for a lot of our owners to meet one another. We also managed to get a winner at Uttoxeter with Duke Of Monmouth plugging on in true trying fashion to win by a neck. The handicapper gave him a good chance by dropping him 8lbs last week so we took advantage of this but he also jumped very well and was given a great ride by Dominc Elsworth.
I was rung up by an Irish man as I arrived at the racecourse on Saturday offering me horse that tried to buy the night before, after a lot of haggling I managed to buy Breezy Kin who won a p2p last Sunday in Ireland and although he may not be a world beater he has very consistent form, he has been brought for Harry Bannister to ride.
When we got back from the races on Saturday evening we jumped in the hot tub for an hour and drank some very nice wine, before going to Simon Beccles and Marie Ellis for a lovely dinner.
On Sunday morning my family left to go back to Edinburgh and I went out for lunch to Kim Meehan, where I watched Who Owns Me come 3rd at Fontwell, he made a mistake both times at the downhill fence which knocked the stuffing out of him. He was unsuited by the quick early pace and tired quickly in the heavy ground.
This morning we cantered a lot of the new horses for the first time, the horses spirits were high but there was some rather nervous looking faces on my staff! I watched from the car as my secretary Rose had a rather hairy time and very almost got thrown off a couple of times, she very quickly retreated to the office when we got back so not to have to sit on another one!
As we had no runners today I decided to take Mr Big hunting with the VWH, he jumped the first 5 or 6 fences fine and then decided he would not jump a small post and rail, at the 3rd time of trying he dumped me in the biggest muddiest puddle he could find and on top of that I lost my watch. I spent the next twenty minutes looking for my watch by which time the hounds had disappeared, luckily I found my watch but Mr Big behaved very badly and we went home - I will have to get this sorted before the next time we go out as its not the first time he has done it! He has claimed 4 rider falls in 3 meets!
Plum Stone runs at Lingfield tomorrow in a mares bumper, she is a nice filly and the All Weather surface should suit her. I plan to run Greyfriars Drummer on Thursday at Market Rasen as I had to take him out of Cheltenham on Saturday as he bruised his heel, Area Access may also go there. Lord of House will go to Ascot on Friday. Shockingtimes and Attimo will go to Ascot on Saturday and Always Smiling at Towcester on Sunday.
I went to Cheltenham on Friday and thoroughly enjoyed the racing from the comfort of Lycetts Box. Later in the evening I went to the Brightwells select sale and tried to buy a horse. They all made far to much money and I came away empty handed. I returned home to a house full of people for supper, including my sister Caroline and her husband Mark, and my brother Robbie and his girlfriend Emma. Saturday morning was fairly hectic with 14 people for breakfast included Tom Swerling who I haven't seen for a while.
Shockingtimes worked really well and Attimo impressed too. We managed to make it to Cheltenham in good time where we had a box for the day. We had 20 odd people in the box for drinks and lunch. It worked really and an everyone enjoyed themselves, it was a great opportunity for a lot of our owners to meet one another. We also managed to get a winner at Uttoxeter with Duke Of Monmouth plugging on in true trying fashion to win by a neck. The handicapper gave him a good chance by dropping him 8lbs last week so we took advantage of this but he also jumped very well and was given a great ride by Dominc Elsworth.
I was rung up by an Irish man as I arrived at the racecourse on Saturday offering me horse that tried to buy the night before, after a lot of haggling I managed to buy Breezy Kin who won a p2p last Sunday in Ireland and although he may not be a world beater he has very consistent form, he has been brought for Harry Bannister to ride.
When we got back from the races on Saturday evening we jumped in the hot tub for an hour and drank some very nice wine, before going to Simon Beccles and Marie Ellis for a lovely dinner.
On Sunday morning my family left to go back to Edinburgh and I went out for lunch to Kim Meehan, where I watched Who Owns Me come 3rd at Fontwell, he made a mistake both times at the downhill fence which knocked the stuffing out of him. He was unsuited by the quick early pace and tired quickly in the heavy ground.
This morning we cantered a lot of the new horses for the first time, the horses spirits were high but there was some rather nervous looking faces on my staff! I watched from the car as my secretary Rose had a rather hairy time and very almost got thrown off a couple of times, she very quickly retreated to the office when we got back so not to have to sit on another one!
As we had no runners today I decided to take Mr Big hunting with the VWH, he jumped the first 5 or 6 fences fine and then decided he would not jump a small post and rail, at the 3rd time of trying he dumped me in the biggest muddiest puddle he could find and on top of that I lost my watch. I spent the next twenty minutes looking for my watch by which time the hounds had disappeared, luckily I found my watch but Mr Big behaved very badly and we went home - I will have to get this sorted before the next time we go out as its not the first time he has done it! He has claimed 4 rider falls in 3 meets!
Plum Stone runs at Lingfield tomorrow in a mares bumper, she is a nice filly and the All Weather surface should suit her. I plan to run Greyfriars Drummer on Thursday at Market Rasen as I had to take him out of Cheltenham on Saturday as he bruised his heel, Area Access may also go there. Lord of House will go to Ascot on Friday. Shockingtimes and Attimo will go to Ascot on Saturday and Always Smiling at Towcester on Sunday.
Monday, 11 November 2013
11.11.13
I had a very good weekend as Fine Parchment won at Sandown on Saturday and my team Newcastle beat Spurs on Sunday!
We had just the one runner at Sandown on Saturday but plenty of supporters! I walked the track with Harry Bannister beforehand and under instruction he made most of the running, bar Tingle Creek I have never seen a horse jump so well round that track as Fine Parchment did. In fairness to Harry he let the old boy do as he pleased and gave him a very good ride. Harrys parents and his brother Archie (who was also celebrating his birthday) were there so it was a big family occasion.
We went to Cath Walwyns 85th birthday party yesterday, there were lots of familiar racing faces there. The other highlight of course was the football, our goal keeper made 14 saves which is premiership record!
This morning I rode Shockingtimes who is in very good form, I then thought I would have a quiet canter on Western King. He all but ran away with me up the 'home' grass gallop, then on the way back he reared up (very uncharacteristic!) and lost his footing on the grass and we both fell over! Oliver Sherwood who was up there schooling a couple had to give me a leg back up! I am not sure who was more shocked between him and I as he stood whinnying while I caught him. I hope to run him on Thursday as he is obviously very well still.
I have entered Greyfriars Drummer at Cheltenham on Saturday where he is likely to take his chance. I have also entered Duke Of Monmouth & Who Owns Me on the same day at Uttoxeter. On Sunday we have Low Gales entered in the boys race at Cheltenham but this is speculative. Who Owns Me has two entries at Fontwell on Sunday and Shockingtimes and Lord Of House have an entry to.
We had just the one runner at Sandown on Saturday but plenty of supporters! I walked the track with Harry Bannister beforehand and under instruction he made most of the running, bar Tingle Creek I have never seen a horse jump so well round that track as Fine Parchment did. In fairness to Harry he let the old boy do as he pleased and gave him a very good ride. Harrys parents and his brother Archie (who was also celebrating his birthday) were there so it was a big family occasion.
We went to Cath Walwyns 85th birthday party yesterday, there were lots of familiar racing faces there. The other highlight of course was the football, our goal keeper made 14 saves which is premiership record!
This morning I rode Shockingtimes who is in very good form, I then thought I would have a quiet canter on Western King. He all but ran away with me up the 'home' grass gallop, then on the way back he reared up (very uncharacteristic!) and lost his footing on the grass and we both fell over! Oliver Sherwood who was up there schooling a couple had to give me a leg back up! I am not sure who was more shocked between him and I as he stood whinnying while I caught him. I hope to run him on Thursday as he is obviously very well still.
I have entered Greyfriars Drummer at Cheltenham on Saturday where he is likely to take his chance. I have also entered Duke Of Monmouth & Who Owns Me on the same day at Uttoxeter. On Sunday we have Low Gales entered in the boys race at Cheltenham but this is speculative. Who Owns Me has two entries at Fontwell on Sunday and Shockingtimes and Lord Of House have an entry to.
Friday, 8 November 2013
09.11.13
We have had a busy early part of the week with runners at Kempton, Exeter and Chepstow so apologies for the lack of blog but this is the first time I have sat at my desk properly all week!
Attimo ran a very nice race to finish 5th of 18 in his first hurdle race, he is bound to come on quite a bit for it. He is the closest that I have ever had to a horse that looks like Denman! Lord Of House ran in his first novice chase, although he finished 3rd we don't really know much more about him than we did before the race. He jumped beautifully until he made a bad mistake slipping in to the ditch effectively putting him out of the race. Stoney Silence got inferred with at the first hurdle and ran no race because of it, we will draw a line through that.
Sands Cove ran a very good race at Chepstow on Wednesday, it was his first run for us and his new owners. He jumped beautifully and finished 3rd, it looks like we will have some fun with him this year.
Noel Fehily and Mark Grant schooled for us yesterday. Airmens Friend and Low Gales jumped very boldly over fences while Elmore Back and Greyfriars Drummer were equally as good over hurdles.
We loose schooled 3 for the first time in the new jumping ring. It worked really well and is a good asset to the yard.
We have just had a gorgeous horse arrive from Germany called Verano. He has come from Mario Hofer and has won twice on the flat, he is for Sale. Details and pictures of the new horses which are for sale will be up on the website early next week.
It was great to see AP ride his 4,000 winner at Towcester. He is a great example to all of us, a true professional.
Attimo ran a very nice race to finish 5th of 18 in his first hurdle race, he is bound to come on quite a bit for it. He is the closest that I have ever had to a horse that looks like Denman! Lord Of House ran in his first novice chase, although he finished 3rd we don't really know much more about him than we did before the race. He jumped beautifully until he made a bad mistake slipping in to the ditch effectively putting him out of the race. Stoney Silence got inferred with at the first hurdle and ran no race because of it, we will draw a line through that.
Sands Cove ran a very good race at Chepstow on Wednesday, it was his first run for us and his new owners. He jumped beautifully and finished 3rd, it looks like we will have some fun with him this year.
Noel Fehily and Mark Grant schooled for us yesterday. Airmens Friend and Low Gales jumped very boldly over fences while Elmore Back and Greyfriars Drummer were equally as good over hurdles.
We loose schooled 3 for the first time in the new jumping ring. It worked really well and is a good asset to the yard.
We have just had a gorgeous horse arrive from Germany called Verano. He has come from Mario Hofer and has won twice on the flat, he is for Sale. Details and pictures of the new horses which are for sale will be up on the website early next week.
It was great to see AP ride his 4,000 winner at Towcester. He is a great example to all of us, a true professional.
Tuesday, 5 November 2013
05.11.13
We ran two horses yesterday at Kempton. A new filly Always Smiling ran in the novice hurdle under Harry Bannister, she ran well to finish 5th. She tries and jumps well but will need better ground, I am confident she will win a mares hurdle.
Duke Of Monmouth had his first run over fences, he jumped very well but they went to quick for him early on and he ran out of steam a little. After losing touch with the leaders Sam Twiston -Davies pulled him up to save him for another day, he could do with a stiffer track on softer ground where his jumping should get him to the front.
They have both come out of their races okay this morning.
Today we have 3 horses running at Exeter. Stoney Silence runs in the novice hurdle. He ran in two bumpers last year and showed enough to please us, it is his first time out over hurdles so I expect him to be a little green but he should like the ground, there are some horses with decent enough form in the race.
Attimo is a lovely big horse who will make a lovely chaser in time. He has run 3 times on the flat in Germany and France. The ground might be on the soft side for him but he should stay further than 2m.
Lord of House runs in the novice chase, it is his first time over fences. Dark Lover and Claret Cloak are good horses to come up against first time out but he has had a wind operation since his last run and I thought it was a nice track to start him off at.
Duke Of Monmouth had his first run over fences, he jumped very well but they went to quick for him early on and he ran out of steam a little. After losing touch with the leaders Sam Twiston -Davies pulled him up to save him for another day, he could do with a stiffer track on softer ground where his jumping should get him to the front.
They have both come out of their races okay this morning.
Today we have 3 horses running at Exeter. Stoney Silence runs in the novice hurdle. He ran in two bumpers last year and showed enough to please us, it is his first time out over hurdles so I expect him to be a little green but he should like the ground, there are some horses with decent enough form in the race.
Attimo is a lovely big horse who will make a lovely chaser in time. He has run 3 times on the flat in Germany and France. The ground might be on the soft side for him but he should stay further than 2m.
Lord of House runs in the novice chase, it is his first time over fences. Dark Lover and Claret Cloak are good horses to come up against first time out but he has had a wind operation since his last run and I thought it was a nice track to start him off at.
Thursday, 31 October 2013
31.10.13
Firstly apologies for the lack of blogging this week, I have been at the sales since Monday. It has been a busy three days at Newmarket. I have bought four horses from Tattersalls and one from Mario Hofer in Germany.
I will put pictures and details of the new horses on the website shortly. One of the horses I bought is a gorgeous Galileo called Portmonarch from David Lanigans', He is for John Heron who owns Seventh Sky. He will be gelded tomorrow as apparently he is a bit of boy!
The other four are very well bought, they are substantial types and look as though they will do a job.
I am on the way to Stratford where we have Who Owns Me running in his first Novice Chase, he jumps very well and the track should suit but it is a competitive race and he is high enough in the handicap. Area Access is running in his first race for us, he is a point to point winner in Ireland so this will be his first novice hurdle. He goes well at home and the ground should suit him, this race should give me more of an idea about him.
Mark Grant and James Davies came in to school 1st and 2d Lot this morning. We got most horses out jumping, Greyfriars Drummer, Airmens Friends and Low Gales all had their first pop since their injuries. I am pleased with the way Lord Of House, Duke Of Monmouth, Stoney Silence and Attimo all jumped as they all have entries next week. Elmore Back was particularly impressive, he is very quick and clever over hurdles which I hoped pleased one of his owners Bill Brindle who came in to watch him school.
I will put pictures and details of the new horses on the website shortly. One of the horses I bought is a gorgeous Galileo called Portmonarch from David Lanigans', He is for John Heron who owns Seventh Sky. He will be gelded tomorrow as apparently he is a bit of boy!
The other four are very well bought, they are substantial types and look as though they will do a job.
I am on the way to Stratford where we have Who Owns Me running in his first Novice Chase, he jumps very well and the track should suit but it is a competitive race and he is high enough in the handicap. Area Access is running in his first race for us, he is a point to point winner in Ireland so this will be his first novice hurdle. He goes well at home and the ground should suit him, this race should give me more of an idea about him.
Mark Grant and James Davies came in to school 1st and 2d Lot this morning. We got most horses out jumping, Greyfriars Drummer, Airmens Friends and Low Gales all had their first pop since their injuries. I am pleased with the way Lord Of House, Duke Of Monmouth, Stoney Silence and Attimo all jumped as they all have entries next week. Elmore Back was particularly impressive, he is very quick and clever over hurdles which I hoped pleased one of his owners Bill Brindle who came in to watch him school.
Friday, 25 October 2013
25.10.13
On Wednesday we had Harry Bannister in to ride work on his 3 horses. They all worked well for him and look especially well.
Attimo worked well with Fine Parchment up Back of the Hill, he will get his first entry next week. The plan will be to head to Sandown with Fine Parchment in the first week of November. Who Owns Me and Duke Of Monmouth are coming on nicely, although neither of them are particularly speedy they both impress me with their workman like attitude and 100% effort.
Shockingtimes and Western King had a nice breeze up in preparation for their runs. We are getting close to running the majority of the winter jumpers now.
Thursday Noel and Mark came in to school. We schooled 6 horses and Mr Big lead as usual. They all jumped beautifully. Who Owns Me, Duke Of Monmouth and Lord Of House are jumping fences really well, and I am confident about their novice chasing debuts.
Yesterday I drove my 2 children to Southwell. On the way there we passed a Go Karting track, I told them that if we had a winner we would stop on the way back. Shockingtimes was given a confident ride by Mark Grant, and absolutely sluiced up. It is the first time we have had the horse right in two years due to a back operation for Kissing Spine last December. He rightly rewarded the patience of his owners as Simon Beccle won so much money on him that the Tote couldn't pay him out all in one go!
We then drove home and stopped at the Go Karts, where I listened to Western King running at Ludlow. On the commentary he was quite well back and losing ground so I had my doubts but he stayed on and won in a flourish. It was a good day in the office which got better when I beat both my children on the Go Karting circuit, so you could count that as a Treble!
Lucinda Green stayed last night as she was riding out Sprinter Sacre this morning. Before she headed over to Hendersons I put her on Mr Big so she could she what a proper horse felt like to make her comparisons!
I have entered Who Owns Me in a Novice H'Cap Chase at Stratford on Thursday and also a new horse Area Access in the Maiden Hurdle.
Attimo worked well with Fine Parchment up Back of the Hill, he will get his first entry next week. The plan will be to head to Sandown with Fine Parchment in the first week of November. Who Owns Me and Duke Of Monmouth are coming on nicely, although neither of them are particularly speedy they both impress me with their workman like attitude and 100% effort.
Shockingtimes and Western King had a nice breeze up in preparation for their runs. We are getting close to running the majority of the winter jumpers now.
Thursday Noel and Mark came in to school. We schooled 6 horses and Mr Big lead as usual. They all jumped beautifully. Who Owns Me, Duke Of Monmouth and Lord Of House are jumping fences really well, and I am confident about their novice chasing debuts.
Yesterday I drove my 2 children to Southwell. On the way there we passed a Go Karting track, I told them that if we had a winner we would stop on the way back. Shockingtimes was given a confident ride by Mark Grant, and absolutely sluiced up. It is the first time we have had the horse right in two years due to a back operation for Kissing Spine last December. He rightly rewarded the patience of his owners as Simon Beccle won so much money on him that the Tote couldn't pay him out all in one go!
We then drove home and stopped at the Go Karts, where I listened to Western King running at Ludlow. On the commentary he was quite well back and losing ground so I had my doubts but he stayed on and won in a flourish. It was a good day in the office which got better when I beat both my children on the Go Karting circuit, so you could count that as a Treble!
Lucinda Green stayed last night as she was riding out Sprinter Sacre this morning. Before she headed over to Hendersons I put her on Mr Big so she could she what a proper horse felt like to make her comparisons!
I have entered Who Owns Me in a Novice H'Cap Chase at Stratford on Thursday and also a new horse Area Access in the Maiden Hurdle.
Monday, 21 October 2013
21.10.13
Veronica Thorneloe came round on Friday afternoon. She liked the look of Sands Cove so much so that she has purchased a 1/4 share in him. Having won the Military Gold Cup for John and Veronica it is nice to have them into another horse.
We had a busy morning on Saturday. 1st lot worked on my gallop and they all seemed to work very well, especially Stoney Silence and Area Access. Area Access has sharpen up a lot, I will start to look for a nice National Hunt novice hurdle for him over 2m4f to 2m 5f.
Airmens Friend and Low Gales are coming on, they did a nice bit of work together. They are both still a bit behind the others due to us taking our time with them after their injuries last year, but they look very well and are catching up.
2nd lot went up Back of the Hill. Plum Stone worked really well with Always Smiling. It was Plum Stones very first piece of work, I was impressed with how nicely she went. Latelo and Lord of House worked nicely together. It was frustrating having to watch the racing on TV on Saturday and not be amongst the action, but the horses are coming on and we should start making some entries next week.
It was a good work day and I was happy with all the horses.
We took Western King to Kempton yesterday, only to see the heavens open and the going change so we bought him home again.
Planning the week ahead I am hoping to run Shockingtimes at Fontwell on Wednesday, Western King at Ludlow on Thursday and Victor Leudorum at Fakenham on Friday, but looking at the weather forecast I suspect the ground will have gone for WK and VL.
We had a busy morning on Saturday. 1st lot worked on my gallop and they all seemed to work very well, especially Stoney Silence and Area Access. Area Access has sharpen up a lot, I will start to look for a nice National Hunt novice hurdle for him over 2m4f to 2m 5f.
Airmens Friend and Low Gales are coming on, they did a nice bit of work together. They are both still a bit behind the others due to us taking our time with them after their injuries last year, but they look very well and are catching up.
2nd lot went up Back of the Hill. Plum Stone worked really well with Always Smiling. It was Plum Stones very first piece of work, I was impressed with how nicely she went. Latelo and Lord of House worked nicely together. It was frustrating having to watch the racing on TV on Saturday and not be amongst the action, but the horses are coming on and we should start making some entries next week.
It was a good work day and I was happy with all the horses.
We took Western King to Kempton yesterday, only to see the heavens open and the going change so we bought him home again.
Planning the week ahead I am hoping to run Shockingtimes at Fontwell on Wednesday, Western King at Ludlow on Thursday and Victor Leudorum at Fakenham on Friday, but looking at the weather forecast I suspect the ground will have gone for WK and VL.
Thursday, 17 October 2013
Schooling Videos 17.10.13
We had a schooling session this morning with 5 jockeys in, Noel Fehily, Mark Grant, Dave Crosse, Harry Bannister and Ben Ffrench-Davis. The first 5 schooled very well. Mr Big lead Lord of House and Shockingtimes and then Duke of Monmouth and Champagne N Caviar followed.
We then schooled 3 over hurdles, Mr Big lead Area Access followed by Attimo and Stoney Silence. All 3 jumped very well, they are improving each week.
Who Owns Me schooled over fences well, however he stumbled on landing but came away unscathed.
Always Smiling was lead by Western King over the hurdles, giving Western King a little jolly before his next run. The mare jumped well and wont take much more getting fit so I will look for a nice Mares Novice Hurdle for her shortly.
I am glad I did not run Shockingtimes today, I was unsure of running him over 3miles first time out and wanted to give one more school and another piece of work to get him ready so I decided to wait. Standing Ovation won the race very nicely so I think I made the right choice! He has a few entries next week, the most likely option looks to be Fontwell on Wednesday in the 2m 6f h'cap chase.
We then schooled 3 over hurdles, Mr Big lead Area Access followed by Attimo and Stoney Silence. All 3 jumped very well, they are improving each week.
Who Owns Me schooled over fences well, however he stumbled on landing but came away unscathed.
Always Smiling was lead by Western King over the hurdles, giving Western King a little jolly before his next run. The mare jumped well and wont take much more getting fit so I will look for a nice Mares Novice Hurdle for her shortly.
I am glad I did not run Shockingtimes today, I was unsure of running him over 3miles first time out and wanted to give one more school and another piece of work to get him ready so I decided to wait. Standing Ovation won the race very nicely so I think I made the right choice! He has a few entries next week, the most likely option looks to be Fontwell on Wednesday in the 2m 6f h'cap chase.
Wednesday, 16 October 2013
16.10.13
We started clipping horses on Tuesday. Anita is doing a very good job, she is quick and efficient and they all look very smart. It is nice to get their coats off as you can see that they are getting fitter.
Later on Tuesday we had John Francome round for supper, he was in very good form and it was a good old catch up.
This morning we worked a lot of horses. Lord of House worked with Fine Parchment up back of the hill, they both did a nice piece of work and are only a couple of weeks off a run. Lord Of House is a bigger horse again this year, he had a wind operation 6 weeks ago so I hope this will ease his breathing difficulties that became apparent at the end of last season. I took a look at the race program for Fine Parchment this morning and there looks to be a nice race at Sandown for him at the beginning of November.
Area Access showed me a bit more this morning when he worked with Greyfriars Drummer. He does seem very green but is getting stronger in himself and improving with it. Stoney Silence went well up back of the hill, the penny seemed to drop with him this morning, he was more focused and put in a good piece of work.
Champagne N Caviar did a nice bit of work up the bank, he is a big horse with a long stride. I am not sure how much he effort he ever puts in but is still improving in fitness and is where I want him at this stage.
The grass gallops up on Mandown have also now been opened, a few strings were out and about on the them today, it wont be long before we start going up the grass but I would prefer some more rain first!
Later on Tuesday we had John Francome round for supper, he was in very good form and it was a good old catch up.
This morning we worked a lot of horses. Lord of House worked with Fine Parchment up back of the hill, they both did a nice piece of work and are only a couple of weeks off a run. Lord Of House is a bigger horse again this year, he had a wind operation 6 weeks ago so I hope this will ease his breathing difficulties that became apparent at the end of last season. I took a look at the race program for Fine Parchment this morning and there looks to be a nice race at Sandown for him at the beginning of November.
Area Access showed me a bit more this morning when he worked with Greyfriars Drummer. He does seem very green but is getting stronger in himself and improving with it. Stoney Silence went well up back of the hill, the penny seemed to drop with him this morning, he was more focused and put in a good piece of work.
Champagne N Caviar did a nice bit of work up the bank, he is a big horse with a long stride. I am not sure how much he effort he ever puts in but is still improving in fitness and is where I want him at this stage.
The grass gallops up on Mandown have also now been opened, a few strings were out and about on the them today, it wont be long before we start going up the grass but I would prefer some more rain first!
Monday, 14 October 2013
14.10.13
We had a good work morning on Saturday, all the horses are coming to the fore. We had Tony Stapleton, Bryan and Philippa Burrough and Marie Ellis in, along with 2 red letters Pam and John Walsh in to watch second lot on Back of The Hill. Duke of Monmouth worked well along with Stoney Silence. Shockingtimes worked very well and is not far off a run. Who Owns Me and Attimo seem fairly forward.
I ran Scepticism again at Wolverhampton on Saturday evening, it was apparent very quickly that I had run him a week to soon. He ran very flat but has come back none the worse. He will have an easy week then we will see what he is like before stepping up his work again.
I went to Tim Fitzgerald O'Connors 70th Birthday drinks party yesterday followed by Sunday lunch with Katya at the Star at Sparsholt. We got back just in time to watch the Pardubice, which I won in 1995 on Its A Snip. Sam Wahley-Cohen came in last week to ride out as he wanted to get the benefit of my wisdom regarding the race! I was then very surprised to see Sam fall off not only going down to post but then unfortunately come off again in the race at a fence called 'Snake Pit'! Only 6 of the 22 runners got round so maybe I should have another go!
I rode Greyfriars Drummer this morning and I was amazed how well he was in himself. Low Gales and Airmens Friend are on their way back from injury so they did a few more weeks on the roads than the others,however they did their first bit of work on Saturday and seemed to be fresh and well this morning on the gallops.
Low Gales
I ran Scepticism again at Wolverhampton on Saturday evening, it was apparent very quickly that I had run him a week to soon. He ran very flat but has come back none the worse. He will have an easy week then we will see what he is like before stepping up his work again.
I went to Tim Fitzgerald O'Connors 70th Birthday drinks party yesterday followed by Sunday lunch with Katya at the Star at Sparsholt. We got back just in time to watch the Pardubice, which I won in 1995 on Its A Snip. Sam Wahley-Cohen came in last week to ride out as he wanted to get the benefit of my wisdom regarding the race! I was then very surprised to see Sam fall off not only going down to post but then unfortunately come off again in the race at a fence called 'Snake Pit'! Only 6 of the 22 runners got round so maybe I should have another go!
I rode Greyfriars Drummer this morning and I was amazed how well he was in himself. Low Gales and Airmens Friend are on their way back from injury so they did a few more weeks on the roads than the others,however they did their first bit of work on Saturday and seemed to be fresh and well this morning on the gallops.
Friday, 11 October 2013
11.10.13 Pictures
2nd Lot up Back of the Hill this morning.
Left to Right - Lord of House, Latelo, Greyfriars Drummer, Area Access
Left to Right - Lord of House, Latelo, Greyfriars Drummer, Area Access
Thursday, 10 October 2013
10.10.13
We schooled 6 horses this morning. We had Ben on lead horse Mr Big, and Jockeys Mark Grant and James Banks in. Shockingtimes and Duke of Monmouth both schooled over fences together, they both jumped superbly. We then schooled Attimo and Stoney Silence together over hurdles, they both jumped well and were very fresh both bucking a lot! The 3rd pair were Lord of House & Champagne N Caviar, whilst swapping over the jockeys the former double barrelled me but luckily he only got a glance off at my hand otherwise I would not be writing this blog! Luckily they both went well, Lord of House jumped especially well and should be an exciting addition to the novice chasing ranks.
Wednesday, 9 October 2013
09.10.13
A plan was hatched at the Monday Lunch Club in the Malt Shovel, the MLC secretary Mikael Magnusson told me that Scepticism has a dirt horse pedigree being by Elusive Quality. He said that after our win with him we must take him out to the Breeders Cup! So we have made a plan to go out to America with our own chef who is also going to ride the horse! That is if we don't sell him in the meantime. He has been entered again at Wolverhampton on Saturday night although he has gone up 3lb for his win he has a 4lb 3yo allowance so he will effectively be running off a lesser mark than last week.
I rode Duke Of Monmouth on Tuesday who tried to buck me off twice, he seems in great spirits. I then rode Lord Of House 2nd lot, he is also very fresh right now.
We worked most of the yard this morning. There were a couple that stood out for me; Shockingtimes seems a bit further ahead than the others so is looking to be one of our earlier runners. Mark Grant rode Latelo and liked him a lot, he still lacks in fitness but seems sure to win a bumper. Attimo went very well too.
Victor Leudorum is entered on Saturday at Cheptsow and Sunday at Ffos Las, Sunday looks the most likely option for him and Noel is available to ride him. He also now holds an entry for Huntingdon on Tuesday in case the race doesn't cut up how I would like it to on Sunday. I decided not to run Western King tomorrow as didn't think it was a suitable contest for him, he is unlikely to run on Sunday as he is just out of the h'cap so I will look to find another race for him. Kempton on the 20th could be an option.
I rode Duke Of Monmouth on Tuesday who tried to buck me off twice, he seems in great spirits. I then rode Lord Of House 2nd lot, he is also very fresh right now.
We worked most of the yard this morning. There were a couple that stood out for me; Shockingtimes seems a bit further ahead than the others so is looking to be one of our earlier runners. Mark Grant rode Latelo and liked him a lot, he still lacks in fitness but seems sure to win a bumper. Attimo went very well too.
Victor Leudorum is entered on Saturday at Cheptsow and Sunday at Ffos Las, Sunday looks the most likely option for him and Noel is available to ride him. He also now holds an entry for Huntingdon on Tuesday in case the race doesn't cut up how I would like it to on Sunday. I decided not to run Western King tomorrow as didn't think it was a suitable contest for him, he is unlikely to run on Sunday as he is just out of the h'cap so I will look to find another race for him. Kempton on the 20th could be an option.
Monday, 7 October 2013
07.10.13
I had lunch in a box in Ascot on Friday courtesy of Paynes Hicks Beech, it was a lovely day being entertained by a good friend of mine and owner Simon Beccle who works for them. The winners were hard to come by as the races were nearly all handicaps and none of the favourites won!
I then had six people round for supper that night, Katya did a great job cooking for everyone and it was a very good evening.
We worked most of the horses on Saturday, the main lot of horse are all starting to come on now. Attimo and Stoney Silence worked very well together on the bank, they are two promising young horses. The prospective novice chasers Who Owns Me and Duke of Monmouth showed me the correct signs for this time of year. On the back of the hill gallop Lord of House and Shockingtimes stepped up the pace a bit for the first time this year and look really well.
I let William my son mow the lawn that afternoon, he managed to break the mower and also took a brick out of my new patio! I then did something in the afternoon that I never thought I would do..I thought it would be the lowest point of my training career in that I went to Wolverhampton for an evening meeting on a Saturday to watch a horse I trained and part own run in a flat race on the All Weather. Simon drove Marie and myself to the racecourse but I have to say after the shock of driving through the town itself it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated!
When the Jockey came into the parade ring I thought I recognised him, it turned out that he is the chef at our local pub! When he asked me for my orders I very nearly said I would have a prawn cocktail and a medium steak! It all turned out well in the end, Josh gave Scepticism a good ride and he won by a neck. I am very keen to keep my 100% strike rate at Wolverhampton so I doubt I will be running anything else there again!
On Sunday we went to the RAC club at Epsom to have lunch with Judy and Michael Maynard and friends, it was a very jolly affair and we also managed to watch the Arc.
This morning I rode Champagne N Caviar 1st lot, he felt very good. I rode Latelo 2nd lot, he surprises me every time I ride, he is getting stronger and stronger and I think he could be very good. Attimo is in very good order, his half brother Altano won a Group 1 at Longchamp yesterday so I cant understand how we still have some shares available in him - he must be worth a fortune now!
Western King is entered on Thursday and Sunday, I will take a look at the races over the next 24 hours and decide where to go with him. He looks well and still has a lovely summer coat.
I then had six people round for supper that night, Katya did a great job cooking for everyone and it was a very good evening.
We worked most of the horses on Saturday, the main lot of horse are all starting to come on now. Attimo and Stoney Silence worked very well together on the bank, they are two promising young horses. The prospective novice chasers Who Owns Me and Duke of Monmouth showed me the correct signs for this time of year. On the back of the hill gallop Lord of House and Shockingtimes stepped up the pace a bit for the first time this year and look really well.
I let William my son mow the lawn that afternoon, he managed to break the mower and also took a brick out of my new patio! I then did something in the afternoon that I never thought I would do..I thought it would be the lowest point of my training career in that I went to Wolverhampton for an evening meeting on a Saturday to watch a horse I trained and part own run in a flat race on the All Weather. Simon drove Marie and myself to the racecourse but I have to say after the shock of driving through the town itself it wasn't as bad as I had anticipated!
When the Jockey came into the parade ring I thought I recognised him, it turned out that he is the chef at our local pub! When he asked me for my orders I very nearly said I would have a prawn cocktail and a medium steak! It all turned out well in the end, Josh gave Scepticism a good ride and he won by a neck. I am very keen to keep my 100% strike rate at Wolverhampton so I doubt I will be running anything else there again!
On Sunday we went to the RAC club at Epsom to have lunch with Judy and Michael Maynard and friends, it was a very jolly affair and we also managed to watch the Arc.
This morning I rode Champagne N Caviar 1st lot, he felt very good. I rode Latelo 2nd lot, he surprises me every time I ride, he is getting stronger and stronger and I think he could be very good. Attimo is in very good order, his half brother Altano won a Group 1 at Longchamp yesterday so I cant understand how we still have some shares available in him - he must be worth a fortune now!
Western King is entered on Thursday and Sunday, I will take a look at the races over the next 24 hours and decide where to go with him. He looks well and still has a lovely summer coat.
Thursday, 3 October 2013
Schooling Videos 03.10.13
Mr Big leading Noel on Stoney Silence and Mark on Attimo
Always Smiling (Mark) leading Area Access (Noel)
Who Owns Me (Mark) leading Champagne N Caviar (Noel)
03.10.13
The marquee finally went down on Tuesday morning and everyone's hangovers finally subsided! However my Jeep then broke down which is always a nightmare as it is invaluable for going up and down the gallops every morning.
On Wednesday morning we stepped up the work with the horses, most of them did there first half speed upsides. It all went to plan with the horses being where I want them at this time of year. We had 3 Red Letter Days for breakfast who said they really enjoyed seeing them work. I gave two pounds to Len Robinson to buy me a lottery ticket for this Saturday. I will wait with anticipation to see what happens!
The Jeep arrived back on Wednesday afternoon, thank god it was not in the garage for any longer!
This morning we schooled 6 horses on the grass for the first time this year. Noel Fehily and Mark Grant both came in and Ben Ffrench-Davis led the younger horses on Mr Big. They all jumped beautifully. Who Owns Me was very fresh and jumped like a stag which is promising as it only his second time schooling over the fences on the grass, he was paired up with Champagne N Caviar who jumped them nicely. Stoney Silence and Attimo where given a lead by Mr Big, it was nice to see them putting some bucks in and feeling well. Always Smiling and Area Access schooled well over the hurdles.
We then put Scepticism through the stalls, my new assistant (!) Katya Pilkington let the gates go so quickly that she almost got my head lad knocked over - I think she may have put him off for life and he is an ex stalls handler!
On Wednesday morning we stepped up the work with the horses, most of them did there first half speed upsides. It all went to plan with the horses being where I want them at this time of year. We had 3 Red Letter Days for breakfast who said they really enjoyed seeing them work. I gave two pounds to Len Robinson to buy me a lottery ticket for this Saturday. I will wait with anticipation to see what happens!
The Jeep arrived back on Wednesday afternoon, thank god it was not in the garage for any longer!
This morning we schooled 6 horses on the grass for the first time this year. Noel Fehily and Mark Grant both came in and Ben Ffrench-Davis led the younger horses on Mr Big. They all jumped beautifully. Who Owns Me was very fresh and jumped like a stag which is promising as it only his second time schooling over the fences on the grass, he was paired up with Champagne N Caviar who jumped them nicely. Stoney Silence and Attimo where given a lead by Mr Big, it was nice to see them putting some bucks in and feeling well. Always Smiling and Area Access schooled well over the hurdles.
Videos to Follow
We then put Scepticism through the stalls, my new assistant (!) Katya Pilkington let the gates go so quickly that she almost got my head lad knocked over - I think she may have put him off for life and he is an ex stalls handler!
Monday, 30 September 2013
30.09.13
On Thursday we schooled six young horses in our new ring. Crosse, Mark Grant and Noel came in and they were all very happy. Elmore Back was particularly athletic.
We had the new lights for the front of the yard put in later that day in preparation for the weekend, it now looks like the Dorchester hotel at night!
Tim Galer came in on Friday morning to see Greyfriars Drummer on the gallops, he was very pleased with him. He had been treating him for 6 weeks during his pre training to help strengthen up his knee.
The new signs arrived for the house and the yard on Friday afternoon, they are so big you can just about see them from the m4! The marquee also went up on Friday so later that evening we had 50 of the locals round for drinks. Most of the local trainers came, they all seemed very impressed with the new yard - so much so we couldn't get rid of them so we ended up having to turn the lights out on them to help vacate them!
On Saturday morning we had the 3 jockeys in to ride out then we had a very busy day setting up. Friends and family started arriving on Saturday afternoon and soon got roped into dead heading flowers, laying the tables, sweeping up etc etc!
On Sunday we had what I think was the best Open Day ever! We had a very good Irish band and some fantastic Morris Dancers. They really made the whole day quite lively! I think that generally open days are very over rated so you have to think outside the box a bit. We had almost 200 people of enjoyed themselves and ate and drank far to much. the last owners to leave left at half past midnight!
I bet there are not many trainers in this his country who dressed as a morris dancer and made I prat of himself on the lawn in order to sell a horse, but if this is what we have to do then so be it!
I would like to thank all those that helped out on the day and made it a great success.
We had the new lights for the front of the yard put in later that day in preparation for the weekend, it now looks like the Dorchester hotel at night!
Tim Galer came in on Friday morning to see Greyfriars Drummer on the gallops, he was very pleased with him. He had been treating him for 6 weeks during his pre training to help strengthen up his knee.
The new signs arrived for the house and the yard on Friday afternoon, they are so big you can just about see them from the m4! The marquee also went up on Friday so later that evening we had 50 of the locals round for drinks. Most of the local trainers came, they all seemed very impressed with the new yard - so much so we couldn't get rid of them so we ended up having to turn the lights out on them to help vacate them!
On Saturday morning we had the 3 jockeys in to ride out then we had a very busy day setting up. Friends and family started arriving on Saturday afternoon and soon got roped into dead heading flowers, laying the tables, sweeping up etc etc!
On Sunday we had what I think was the best Open Day ever! We had a very good Irish band and some fantastic Morris Dancers. They really made the whole day quite lively! I think that generally open days are very over rated so you have to think outside the box a bit. We had almost 200 people of enjoyed themselves and ate and drank far to much. the last owners to leave left at half past midnight!
I bet there are not many trainers in this his country who dressed as a morris dancer and made I prat of himself on the lawn in order to sell a horse, but if this is what we have to do then so be it!
I would like to thank all those that helped out on the day and made it a great success.
Tuesday, 24 September 2013
24.09.13
We schooled a new young horse this morning in our new schooling ring. All went well he jumped the tyres fine with Mr Big as his lead horse. He has come off the flat and looks a nice big horse.
Monday, 23 September 2013
23.09.13
Mr Big had his first time out Autumn Hunting this season on Saturday. Rose took him out with the OBH for an afternoon meet at Fernham. He was apparently a reformed character compared to his debut last season, much better behaved!
I drove down to London on Saturday night to watch Rod Stewart aged 69 in concert at the O2, I have to say for an old age pensioner he moved very well! We went to Annabel's after the concert but I think the standard seems to have dropped some what as I was the only person in there wearing a tie!
I stayed the night in London and drove straight to Plumpton on Sunday. I ran Scepticism, who as it turns out will not a get 2 miles over hurdles in a horsebox. His next outing will be a Saturday evening meeting on the flat at Wolverhampton which is very disappointing.
This week final preparation is taking place for the open day, I have had to order a larger marquee as there are now so many people coming. The weather forecast is not looking that kind to us at the moment.
I rode Shockingtimes this morning who felt fantastic, he had a good try at bucking me off! After breakfast Bill Brindle and his wife came to see their new horse, it is nice to see Bill back into a horse as he has been an owner for many years and gets a lot out of it.
Western King runs at Newton Abbot tomorrow, he won there 23 days ago over the same distance but it is a better race tomorrow and he has been raised 8lbs so he will have far more on his plate this time.
I drove down to London on Saturday night to watch Rod Stewart aged 69 in concert at the O2, I have to say for an old age pensioner he moved very well! We went to Annabel's after the concert but I think the standard seems to have dropped some what as I was the only person in there wearing a tie!
I stayed the night in London and drove straight to Plumpton on Sunday. I ran Scepticism, who as it turns out will not a get 2 miles over hurdles in a horsebox. His next outing will be a Saturday evening meeting on the flat at Wolverhampton which is very disappointing.
This week final preparation is taking place for the open day, I have had to order a larger marquee as there are now so many people coming. The weather forecast is not looking that kind to us at the moment.
I rode Shockingtimes this morning who felt fantastic, he had a good try at bucking me off! After breakfast Bill Brindle and his wife came to see their new horse, it is nice to see Bill back into a horse as he has been an owner for many years and gets a lot out of it.
Western King runs at Newton Abbot tomorrow, he won there 23 days ago over the same distance but it is a better race tomorrow and he has been raised 8lbs so he will have far more on his plate this time.
Thursday, 19 September 2013
19.09.13
On Tuesday Bryan Beacham who owns a quarter of Lord Of House came to see two horses, he has decided that himself and Edwyn Good (also in Lord of House) are going to buy Area Access between them. He is a very nice winning Irish Pointer and I hope they have a lot of fun with him.
That evening Lucinda Green came to stay, she is world class event rider. She rode at Blenheim Horse Trails last weekend, she had previously won it on Be Fair in 1973 some 40 years ago! Even AP McCoy hasn't been riding that long! She watched the horses on the gallops the next morning and thoroughly enjoyed it.
On Wednesday we cantered 2nd lot around 'Back Of The Hill' gallop to bring the more forward ones on and give them a change of scene. Seventh Sky looks fantastic and is really thriving on his cantering. Stoney Silence is a big horse now, who is far more forward than he was last season and Who Owns Me is in tremendous form, he is very fresh up the gallops at the moment!
After a successful morning on the gallops a good owner Bill Brindle rang me and has brought a leg in Elmore Back. He is a lovely horse, Bill should have a great time with him.
Harry Bannister and Mark Grant came in today to school. We schooled Western King, Sands Cove and Scepticism with Mr Big as the lead horse. Everything jumped beautifully.
That evening Lucinda Green came to stay, she is world class event rider. She rode at Blenheim Horse Trails last weekend, she had previously won it on Be Fair in 1973 some 40 years ago! Even AP McCoy hasn't been riding that long! She watched the horses on the gallops the next morning and thoroughly enjoyed it.
On Wednesday we cantered 2nd lot around 'Back Of The Hill' gallop to bring the more forward ones on and give them a change of scene. Seventh Sky looks fantastic and is really thriving on his cantering. Stoney Silence is a big horse now, who is far more forward than he was last season and Who Owns Me is in tremendous form, he is very fresh up the gallops at the moment!
After a successful morning on the gallops a good owner Bill Brindle rang me and has brought a leg in Elmore Back. He is a lovely horse, Bill should have a great time with him.
Harry Bannister and Mark Grant came in today to school. We schooled Western King, Sands Cove and Scepticism with Mr Big as the lead horse. Everything jumped beautifully.
Tuesday, 17 September 2013
17.09.13
We had Harry Bannister here on Friday morning to ride 3 lots before he went to Bangor. Both his parents came down to watch, it all went swimmingly for a Friday 13th! Unfortunately for Harry his ride at Bangor for Mick Easterby looked rather slow.
Noel Fehily came in to ride work on Saturday. He rode Scepticism who did a nice piece of work. All being well and the ground is okay he will run in the Juvenile Hurdle at Plumpton on Sunday. Western King is fresh and well and should hopefully run at Uttoxeter on Sunday, however if it goes too soft he wont run.
I went to a birthday drinks party at Kim Meehans on Saturday night followed by dinner at my neighbour trainer Mike Blanchards.
We are trying our best to get things up to scratch in time for the open day, there has been plenty of lawn mowing, fence painting and gravel laying which are putting the finishing touches nicely to the yard.We have had a lot of rain in the last two days, the ground is certainly turning. We have even unpacked the light weight exercise sheets for the horses this week.
Elmore Back looks in tremendous form, he looks a stronger bigger horse this season. How I still have a quarter share left available in him I do not know! Attimo looks in good order, he is an impressive looking horse and goes about his job well. Shockingtimes has also impressed me this year. He is going up the gallops well and looks comfortable and happy. A marked improvement from last season after his surgery for a kissing spine.
Noel Fehily came in to ride work on Saturday. He rode Scepticism who did a nice piece of work. All being well and the ground is okay he will run in the Juvenile Hurdle at Plumpton on Sunday. Western King is fresh and well and should hopefully run at Uttoxeter on Sunday, however if it goes too soft he wont run.
I went to a birthday drinks party at Kim Meehans on Saturday night followed by dinner at my neighbour trainer Mike Blanchards.
We are trying our best to get things up to scratch in time for the open day, there has been plenty of lawn mowing, fence painting and gravel laying which are putting the finishing touches nicely to the yard.We have had a lot of rain in the last two days, the ground is certainly turning. We have even unpacked the light weight exercise sheets for the horses this week.
Elmore Back looks in tremendous form, he looks a stronger bigger horse this season. How I still have a quarter share left available in him I do not know! Attimo looks in good order, he is an impressive looking horse and goes about his job well. Shockingtimes has also impressed me this year. He is going up the gallops well and looks comfortable and happy. A marked improvement from last season after his surgery for a kissing spine.
Thursday, 12 September 2013
12.09.13
We had the first of the Red Letter Days last Saturday. A father and his two Daughters joined us for breakfast and a trip up the gallops. It was an entertaining morning as Mark Grant and Noel Fehily were also riding out.
On Sunday we had a drinks party at the Sports Club in Lambourn for Jimmy and Sandra Nolan and Malcolm Bentinck for their retirement from Wickes. Wickes have been the saddlers in Lambourn for the last century! They have now been taken over by a new couple, it is great to see it carrying on as it is great for the community and us trainers.
I rode Sands Cove on Monday morning and really liked him. It is very frustrating that he is ready to run but I can't run him until I find an owner for him. He has won a bumper, hurdle and his first chase and he is only six years old, he acts on any ground and should be running right now to then continue running in Novices Chases for the rest of the season. He should win first time out and then hopefully the aim is Cheltenham in October. (see picture below of him schooling this morning-Horse on the right)
I had an owner on Monday looking at Area Access who won his last point-to-point in Ireland, until I watched the DVD of him winning his race I hadn't realised what a nice horse he is. He made all and jumped like a cat, he is green at home so I can only see improvement in him. So we need to find a nice owner for him as well!
All the horses that had the summer off are now cantering away twice up the bank a day. They are about 2 weeks off doing their firsts bit of work. Greyfriars Drummer came back on Monday from Peasebrook Equine where he has been having rehab. He is moving like a dream which is great testament to them.
On Tuesday we had 10 lorry loads of gravel turn up, it really has set the new yard off. The flower pots have also been planted up by Rose's mother Jackie who has done a great job.
Topically -I am delighted to read in the Racing Post today that there was 'nothing sinister' about the consignment of 124 different equine medicines seized by government officials in Newmarket last month!
Friday, 6 September 2013
06.09.13
It has been a fairly quiet week, although it has been constructive.So I have taken the time to catch up with owners. I had a very good dinner at The French Horn in Sonning last night with Sue Welch. It was a night of great company and excellent food.
We haven't had any runners this week and with only one jump meeting on this week it has been relatively quiet for everybody. I should expect Western King to run again in a couple of weeks as he seems to have come out of his race very well. Victor Leudorum is very perky and is enjoying having an easier week. Scepticism will do a piece of work tomorrow and I will assess his fitness from after his wind -op. He worked well on Wednesday so I would expect him to have come on from that and I should be able to consider entering him up shortly.
We had a bit of rain this morning but nothing like forecast, it has hardly made a difference and now it has warmed up again and I can see bright blue sky from my office window.
The BHA seem to have accepted the proposal to race at Lingfield and Musselburgh on Good Friday, this puts the Lambourn and Middleham Open Days at risk, organisers are already saying they will not stage the open days if there is racing on Good Friday. Quite honestly I think the general public would rather go to the open days than go to either of those meetings. I am all in favour of having the open day regardless of whether they have racing or not. I think it is a very important date as it raises money for Stable Lads Welfare. It is another example of bookmakers and racecourses running our industry. I should think it wont be long before we have racing on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
We haven't had any runners this week and with only one jump meeting on this week it has been relatively quiet for everybody. I should expect Western King to run again in a couple of weeks as he seems to have come out of his race very well. Victor Leudorum is very perky and is enjoying having an easier week. Scepticism will do a piece of work tomorrow and I will assess his fitness from after his wind -op. He worked well on Wednesday so I would expect him to have come on from that and I should be able to consider entering him up shortly.
We had a bit of rain this morning but nothing like forecast, it has hardly made a difference and now it has warmed up again and I can see bright blue sky from my office window.
The BHA seem to have accepted the proposal to race at Lingfield and Musselburgh on Good Friday, this puts the Lambourn and Middleham Open Days at risk, organisers are already saying they will not stage the open days if there is racing on Good Friday. Quite honestly I think the general public would rather go to the open days than go to either of those meetings. I am all in favour of having the open day regardless of whether they have racing or not. I think it is a very important date as it raises money for Stable Lads Welfare. It is another example of bookmakers and racecourses running our industry. I should think it wont be long before we have racing on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
Tuesday, 3 September 2013
03.09.13
I had a busy weekend cooking supper for 8 people on Saturday night. I had David Batten from Tattersalls staying with me, he also has a few shares in some horses at Neardown. It was a very late night and the food was all eaten so well done Mary Berry!
On Sunday I trained 3 winners! Lilly and Pig both won their classes at the Lambourn dog show and Western King made all and won a h'cap chase at Newton Abbot under an inspired ride by Noel Fehily. To put the icing on the cake it was and ROA £5k bonus race, so he won almost £10k in prize money which is a nice Sunday treat for the owners.
On Monday I took my daughter Matilda for her first day at St Edwards in Oxford, there were 142 new arrivals starting Teddys yesterday, as the Headmaster gave his speech I was working out that is 4.5 million in school fees for the first year paid up front.We are now looking at turning Neardown in to a prep school!
On Sunday I trained 3 winners! Lilly and Pig both won their classes at the Lambourn dog show and Western King made all and won a h'cap chase at Newton Abbot under an inspired ride by Noel Fehily. To put the icing on the cake it was and ROA £5k bonus race, so he won almost £10k in prize money which is a nice Sunday treat for the owners.
On Monday I took my daughter Matilda for her first day at St Edwards in Oxford, there were 142 new arrivals starting Teddys yesterday, as the Headmaster gave his speech I was working out that is 4.5 million in school fees for the first year paid up front.We are now looking at turning Neardown in to a prep school!
Thursday, 29 August 2013
29.08.13
Victor Leudorum ran yesterday, he ran his race but was giving to much weight away - a stone and ten to the winner. Not being a very big horse he struggled under 11-12. However he ran well and I was pleased with him. Hopefully the h'capper will drop him a bit now.
I had Jill Mayo round today to look at her horses and have a spot of lunch at home. The bank manager also came over for a good meeting this afternoon, luckily for me he was in very good form!
I had dinner with James Doyles' mother last night who told me he had got the job with Juddmonte, an excellent retainer for a good up and coming young jockey.
I had Jill Mayo round today to look at her horses and have a spot of lunch at home. The bank manager also came over for a good meeting this afternoon, luckily for me he was in very good form!
I had dinner with James Doyles' mother last night who told me he had got the job with Juddmonte, an excellent retainer for a good up and coming young jockey.
Tuesday, 27 August 2013
27.08.2013
I had a busy weekend having 10 people for lunch on Sunday and 6 people for lunch yesterday - my cooking has improved no end!
Yazdi ran yesterday at Bangor, he was disappointing and will be entered at the sales. I am glad I didn't pay 430,000gns for him as that as what he cost as a yearling! If anyone want a polo pony give me a ring...
Victor Leudorum runs at Worcester tomorrow, it does concern me he has top weight as he is not the biggest horse in the world but he is tough and should run well.
Yazdi ran yesterday at Bangor, he was disappointing and will be entered at the sales. I am glad I didn't pay 430,000gns for him as that as what he cost as a yearling! If anyone want a polo pony give me a ring...
Victor Leudorum runs at Worcester tomorrow, it does concern me he has top weight as he is not the biggest horse in the world but he is tough and should run well.
Wednesday, 21 August 2013
Wednesday 21.08.13
I am now sporting the most expensive sun tan I have ever had after being in St Tropez for 4 days! We had a lovely stay with Nigel and Ros Kempner and were definitely seen in all the right places!
Victor Leudorum won a nice race at Worcester last week. He beat a horse of Paul Nicholls, unfortunately the handicapper put him up 7lb for doing so which will make life a bit more difficult for him. He has come out of his race very well and may win another one soon.
Scepticism has had a small wind operation since his last run, I was disappointed with him and couldn't explain it as he shows so much at home so I hope this might make a difference to him finishing his races. He should be ready to run again in the middle of September.
Yazdi is ready to run and is likely to go to Bangor on Monday, otherwise we may look at a race or two on the flat for him. He is in good form at home.
Noel was quite pleased with Western Kings run at Worcester the other day, he just said that they went to quick for him. He will continue to run in the right company.
We have only got 3/4 to run until the main batch of horses are ready so we will probably have a fairly quiet September.
Most of the horses started cantering today, they will progressively do more over the next two weeks. But to start with they are each doing one canter up the bank each morning. Everyone is holding on to their neck straps tightly, it was rather a hair raising experience this morning!
We are trying to buy a few horses still, I have been to Germany and been in contact with a French agent but I cant seem to find anything nice enough to fill an order I have. I will be keeping a look out and may take another trip across the water soon as the prices seem fairer in Germany.
Victor Leudorum won a nice race at Worcester last week. He beat a horse of Paul Nicholls, unfortunately the handicapper put him up 7lb for doing so which will make life a bit more difficult for him. He has come out of his race very well and may win another one soon.
Scepticism has had a small wind operation since his last run, I was disappointed with him and couldn't explain it as he shows so much at home so I hope this might make a difference to him finishing his races. He should be ready to run again in the middle of September.
Yazdi is ready to run and is likely to go to Bangor on Monday, otherwise we may look at a race or two on the flat for him. He is in good form at home.
Noel was quite pleased with Western Kings run at Worcester the other day, he just said that they went to quick for him. He will continue to run in the right company.
We have only got 3/4 to run until the main batch of horses are ready so we will probably have a fairly quiet September.
Most of the horses started cantering today, they will progressively do more over the next two weeks. But to start with they are each doing one canter up the bank each morning. Everyone is holding on to their neck straps tightly, it was rather a hair raising experience this morning!
We are trying to buy a few horses still, I have been to Germany and been in contact with a French agent but I cant seem to find anything nice enough to fill an order I have. I will be keeping a look out and may take another trip across the water soon as the prices seem fairer in Germany.
Wednesday, 24 July 2013
Tuesday 24.07.13
I went to an interesting NTF meeting yesterday at Newbury as I am on the council. The consensus of opinion is that there are a number of trainers in Newmarket in some trouble over the 'Sungate' issue. It will be interesting to see how the BHA handle it.
We had two runners yesterday at Bangor-On-Dee. VICTOR LEUDORUM jumped very well in his first H'cap Chase and finished a very good second to a well H'capped horse of Jonjo O'Neills. Noel Fehily didn't make it in time from Southwell so Nick Scholfield took the ride. I expect him to be winning again soon.
We also ran YAZDI in the Conditional Jockeys Hurdle race. He cost £430,000 as a yearling - I am only glad I did not pay that for him! He finished an okay 3rd. I will be entering him in the Autumn Horses in Training sales as he doesn't look good enough for us.
The yard is finally coming together, I can now see the light at the end of he tunnel. We haven't got that much left to do and it will certainly be ready for our open day.
We have got most of the horses back now from there summer break, they have all done well for it and they are now hacking away doing some road work.
We had two runners yesterday at Bangor-On-Dee. VICTOR LEUDORUM jumped very well in his first H'cap Chase and finished a very good second to a well H'capped horse of Jonjo O'Neills. Noel Fehily didn't make it in time from Southwell so Nick Scholfield took the ride. I expect him to be winning again soon.
We also ran YAZDI in the Conditional Jockeys Hurdle race. He cost £430,000 as a yearling - I am only glad I did not pay that for him! He finished an okay 3rd. I will be entering him in the Autumn Horses in Training sales as he doesn't look good enough for us.
The yard is finally coming together, I can now see the light at the end of he tunnel. We haven't got that much left to do and it will certainly be ready for our open day.
We have got most of the horses back now from there summer break, they have all done well for it and they are now hacking away doing some road work.
Friday, 19 July 2013
EXPERIENCED RIDER / STABLE STAFF REQUIRED
We have an opportunity for someone to join our small and friendly team. Experienced and capable rider required, to include stable duties and travelling to race meetings. Please call Charlie or Rose on 01488 73118 or email rose@charliemann.info
Tuesday, 16 July 2013
Tuesday 16.07.13
I went to Stratford on Sunday with Simon Beccle and Marie Ellis, we had a very nice lunch on the way there in preparation for what we hoped would be a successful day. Unfortunately things did not go to plan, they went to quickly for WESTERN KING, he didn't jump great-seeming to be out of his comfort zone. It wasn't one of his best runs. I think I may try him back over hurdles where he has been successful before.
We fancied SCEPTICISM in the Juvenile Hurdle and thought he would run a big race, I think we would have been in with a shout as the form collapsed half way round but he was brought down at the 5th hurdle when going extremely well. Horse and Jockey are fine, full of beans this morning. He will hopefully go to Newton Abbot on the 3rd August.
We then went to Newton Abbot on Monday - along with every one else going down the M5 to Weston-Super-Mare in the sun. Noel got knocked out in the first race and the ground was much quicker than I anticipated so I withdraw VICTOR LEUDORUM. VAN DIEMENS LAND (USA) ran well to the bend where he faded quickly, it is proving difficult to find his ideal trip.
Today we got 13 horses in, it is nice to see the barn full again. They all look very happy to be in out of the sun and the flies. They were all waiting at the gate with big bellies and are now happy in their stables with their new shoes on.
We fancied SCEPTICISM in the Juvenile Hurdle and thought he would run a big race, I think we would have been in with a shout as the form collapsed half way round but he was brought down at the 5th hurdle when going extremely well. Horse and Jockey are fine, full of beans this morning. He will hopefully go to Newton Abbot on the 3rd August.
We then went to Newton Abbot on Monday - along with every one else going down the M5 to Weston-Super-Mare in the sun. Noel got knocked out in the first race and the ground was much quicker than I anticipated so I withdraw VICTOR LEUDORUM. VAN DIEMENS LAND (USA) ran well to the bend where he faded quickly, it is proving difficult to find his ideal trip.
Today we got 13 horses in, it is nice to see the barn full again. They all look very happy to be in out of the sun and the flies. They were all waiting at the gate with big bellies and are now happy in their stables with their new shoes on.
Saturday, 13 July 2013
Saturday 13.07.13
I played in a very good cricket match yesterday - it was the first time I have scored for quite a long time! I bowled 3 overs and I was the last man left in batting. Not quite up to ashes standard but all good fun!
We took four horses up schooling on Thursday only to find the 3 flights of hurdles and one fence had disappeared. I rang up the JC gallop man to complain and the next thing I knew Thames Valley police force turn up as it turns out £17k worth of easy fix jumps had been stolen. It just goes to show nothing is sacred any more.
We have two runners a piece on Sunday and Monday then the plan ahead is to get the rest of the horses in from grass on Tuesday next week.
I am looking forward to SCEPTICISM run on Sunday. I have 2 shares still available in him so watch this space. WESTERN KING runs over fences at Stratford, he is on great form at home tanking up the gallops. VICTOR LEUDORUM and VAN DIEMENS LAND will run at Newton Abbot on Monday. Victor has top weight in the H'Cap Chase but I am hopeful he will run well, showing good signs at home. VDL also has top weight in the H'Cap Hurdle, we have stepped him up in trip since his last run which should suit better.
We took four horses up schooling on Thursday only to find the 3 flights of hurdles and one fence had disappeared. I rang up the JC gallop man to complain and the next thing I knew Thames Valley police force turn up as it turns out £17k worth of easy fix jumps had been stolen. It just goes to show nothing is sacred any more.
We have two runners a piece on Sunday and Monday then the plan ahead is to get the rest of the horses in from grass on Tuesday next week.
I am looking forward to SCEPTICISM run on Sunday. I have 2 shares still available in him so watch this space. WESTERN KING runs over fences at Stratford, he is on great form at home tanking up the gallops. VICTOR LEUDORUM and VAN DIEMENS LAND will run at Newton Abbot on Monday. Victor has top weight in the H'Cap Chase but I am hopeful he will run well, showing good signs at home. VDL also has top weight in the H'Cap Hurdle, we have stepped him up in trip since his last run which should suit better.
Monday, 8 July 2013
SCEPTICISM (USA)
FOR SALE
SCEPTICISM (USA)
READY TO RUN. ENTERED AT STRATFORD SUNDAY 14TH JULY
4 SHARES AVAILABLE AT £3,500, please contact for more information.
+2.JPG)
SCEPTICISM (USA)
READY TO RUN. ENTERED AT STRATFORD SUNDAY 14TH JULY
4 SHARES AVAILABLE AT £3,500, please contact for more information.
+2.JPG)
Monday 8.7.2013
We decided not to run VICTOR LEUDORUM (IRE) on Sunday as the race did not really suit. The H'Capper has since dropped him 1lb so we now have a few more options for him.
SCEPTICISM (USA) worked outstandingly on Saturday in front of some prospective owners, we think a lot of him. I have entered him today at Stratford on Sunday which should hopefully be a nice race for him. Please contact me for information about purchasing a share in him.
We were all thrilled to see Andy Murray win yesterday, on the back of that I have just reserved the name MURRAY'S MOUNT which I think I will name the Trans Island store horse that I brought from DBS in May.
WESTERN KING (IRE) enjoying a pick of grass on Friday..
SCEPTICISM (USA) worked outstandingly on Saturday in front of some prospective owners, we think a lot of him. I have entered him today at Stratford on Sunday which should hopefully be a nice race for him. Please contact me for information about purchasing a share in him.
We were all thrilled to see Andy Murray win yesterday, on the back of that I have just reserved the name MURRAY'S MOUNT which I think I will name the Trans Island store horse that I brought from DBS in May.
WESTERN KING (IRE) enjoying a pick of grass on Friday..
Tuesday, 2 July 2013
02.07.13
Last Thursday I went to Germany to take a look at some horses for sale, I sat on a lovely horse called Verano who I originally saw back in November. He has won a race since then and reminds me very much of Airforceone. I regularly buy horses from Germany as I think they are better value for money.
I ran Van Diemens Land (USA) on Sunday at Uttoxeter, although the trip was to short he ran very flat which wasn't expected. We will draw a line through it and move on.
Noel came in to school 2 horses on Monday morning. The really nice 3yo Scepticism jumped very well over the hurdles, he is a quick learner and did it easily without a lead. Victor Leudorum schooled over fences, he loves his jumping- absolutely pinging them. He has been dropped a bit in the weights and is entered in a H'Cap at Market Rasen on Sunday. I have only taken a brief look at the entries at this stage although there aren't as many entries as I would have expected it looks a strong enough contest..
I had my annual trip to Wimbledon yesterday, it is always a great day out with a brilliant atmosphere. I thought Andy Murray played very well, I am a big fan of his and hope that he has a win in him this year. Serena on the other hand did not look to be trying very hard!
Tuesday, 25 June 2013
Charlie Mann Charity Golf Day
On Monday 24th June Charlie hosted a Charity Golf Day at Calcot Park in aid of JT McNamara. The weather held out and it turned into a very successful golfing day! Many Trainers, Owners and Jockeys turned up to support, all contributing to the pot. Mikael Magnussons team won for the 3rd year in a row - although it is debatable as to whether they actually did score a birdie at every hole! Golf was followed by lunch in the club house where the raffle was drawn and a successful auction took place. We will update you on the grand total but we expect that it is will be in the region of £7,000.
Tuesday 25.6.13
We ran Yazdi at Royal Ascot on Saturday in the Queen
Alexandra, he ran well and gave his owners a nice day out. I didn’t get to
speak to the jockey afterwards as Silvester de Sousa had already walked off-flat jockeys are very different!. After that run I would expect him to come on and run well in a
Novice Hurdle. over the same distance.
The only entries we currently have are for Van Diemens Land who is in two races on Sunday at Uttoxeter and will more than likely run in one of them. He worked well on Saturday and should be there or there about at the weekend.
The other horses on the yard are looking very well indeed. They all have a lovely shine to their coats and are buzzing on the gallops. Looking at upcoming races Victor Leudorum may go to Market Rasen a week Sunday for 2m
6 f Novice Chase , there is also a h’cap there and possibly a Novice Chase that
we could look at before Market Rasen. He is in good form, he looks very well
and is moving nicely. I am looking forward to running him.
I am looking to run Western King at Newton Abbott on 8th
July in a Beginners Chase. He is in good form and is now moving better after
having his back and withers treated.After disappointing us last time out I hope he runs up to his merits this time.
Scepticism our new 3yo Juvenile Hurdler is a cracking horse. Noel
has been in to ride him regularly, he works very well and has been schooling beautifully
– he seems to be a natural. He has filled out so much and I think he has grown since he has been at Neardown, I am very excited about his future.
He is ready to run and will do so when he is sold!
CJM
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