Great excitement in our house and no doubt houses across the country today ahead of a football game this evening! Semi-finals for England and, if they win, racing is brought forward on Sunday to accommodate everyone (which means Harry’s 8th birthday party becomes even earlier than planned!). Everyone seems to be buzzing and with the sun shining too it would be great if we could win tonight.
We didn’t manage to win at Uttoxeter last night and in fact Morning Herald confirmed that she doesn’t want to be racing any more so, along with owner Sally Lloyd-Baker, we’ve made the decision to retire her. One of the toughest and gutsiest mares I’ve had, she has a brain too and has been looking after herself since she had a year off with a leg injury and won’t let herself down. Such a shame but we must do the best by her and she will have a lovely retirement.
John & Claire Abernethy here this morning to watch their Hartshorne Abbie on the gallops and to see Mr Mafia, who they share with Peter Boggis, chilling out in the paddock. The Handicapper hasn’t altered his Handicap Mark following his Newton Abbot win and with him in such good form and seeming to come out of the race so well, John, Peter and myself have decided to keep him going and run him again in a few weeks time. He’s spent a few nights out in the paddock but seems as well as ever and Harry Stock is pleased with him too.
We had torrential rain on this day 20 years ago …. Belinda & I were married in Condicote Church – how time flies. A romantic day in the office with plenty to do and an evening watching the football – I’m sure it’s her idea of a perfect day!!! Here’s to the next 20!
Go on England!