I was thrilled with Fairmount’s win yesterday for owner/breeder John Broadhurst under a very positive ride from Andrew Tinkler. He built on his hurdling debut and jumped and travelled well in the heavy ground to win beating the favourite impressively by 13 lengths. He’s not been the easiest horse at home as he’s very wary to get on and off but the team have been really patient with him and special thanks must go to both Jamie Goldstein and Harley Cornock for doing such a great job.
Solstice Star ran well for a long time but I feel he is in the grips of the Handicapper and Mister Valentine put in a solid debut in the bumper in ground that he found pretty hard work. He’s a lovely attitude and will be given time to get over his debut before his next run. All three horses are A1 this morning.
An early start this morning as we have two runners at Catterick. Both are partnered by birthday boy Harry Stock who celebrates his 21st Birthday today. Buckle Street runs in a competitive hurdle race under a big weight so Harry’s 7lb allowance is vital as he’s not very big but is so consistent and it would be fantastic if he could get his head in front for The Condicote Clan today. Raving Bonkers runs in the bumper with a 7lbs penalty due to his win on his debut at Towcester in October which is always hard to defy. He would prefer slightly better ground but needs a run and this is the best ground we are likely to get at the moment and he’s been pleasing me at home. I like to give bumper horses a decent time after their first run so that’s why he’s not run for a couple of months. If he runs into a place we’ll be very happy with him.
Meanwhile Belinda, Freddie & Harry are off to see Dick Whittington at The Everyman Theatre – an annual family trip to watch Tweedy the Clown and co in action and a panto that I love. Sadly when we chose the date she’d not banked on us having runners at Catterick! Never mind, the boys have chosen a friend to take my place and I know they will absolutely love it. Oh yes they will!!