Two runners today at the Home of Jump racing – albeit a very different day behind closed doors. But, we are back there and thank heavens for that. From the looks of all the information we have all received, Cheltenham have gone over and above in their quest to keep us all safe so well done to all concerned and, as usual, the ground looks superb – well done Simon Claisse, Ben Hastie and their team.
We run Solstice Star, who has won twice there before and finished 2nd too, under Lilly Pinchin in the 3m 5f Handicap Hurdle. I think he is well and truly in the grips of the handicapper but we’ll see. He needs a run and seems well at home and his main aim is a Veteran’s Chase at Uttoxeter on 22nd November. Good luck to his syndicate Foxtrot Racing.
Found On makes her hurdling debut in the Maiden Hurdle and it’s a pretty decent field, as you would expect, so she’d have to improve considerably on her bumper debut for us at Stratford where she was 2nd. But, I really do like Ollie Ryan’s mare and James Best has ridden her in all of her fast work at home so knows her inside out. She’s got a lovely attitude and has been hurdling well at home. They should go a good gallop, which will suit her, and we’ll know far more about her after today.
I’m in the Green zone with the horses and my team whereas Belinda is accompanying Ollie & Irene Ryan in the Owner zone so it will be interesting to discuss our different experiences of the day.