A busy evening at Stratford Racecourse as we go there with four runners. They have been watering but are also expecting rain before we arrive and I will have to be happy with the ground for a couple of mine to take their chances.
Our 1st runner is Codey Jones (Sean Bowen) for the 360 Racing Club in the 2m 2 1/2f Maiden Hurdle. He didn’t seem to handle going right handed last time out so he reverts to a left handed track and we hope he can build upon what he showed in his first start for us at Worcester.
Debden Bank (James Best) runs in a first time tongue tie was disappointing over hurdles last time so he reverts to fences in a bid to rekindle his enthusiasm for his fun syndicate who enjoyed 4 wins with him in the past 18 months. He retains his visor but I will have a good walk around the track and chat to the jockeys who have ridden on it before him to decide whether he runs.
I will be taking the same ground precautions for Forecast who runs in the colours of our Martin Keighley Racing Club. He joined us over 6 years ago but had a brief spell with Dr Richard Newland and we were delighted to buy him back from the Sales to give our Club some fun. He almost paid for himself 1st time out with a good 2nd place but has had a few issues since, especially with the pollen so he’s had a break and will probably strip fitter for the run.
Finally Borderline, who we purchased as a foal, makes his racecourse debut for Mike & Mella Wright and we can’t wait to see him on the course. He’s a particular favourite of Paul Davis, who is such a big member of our team, but Mike & Mella have always liked him and having started with a leg, have eventually decided to buy us out and now own him outright. An exciting day for ‘Sage’ and for us all to see him on the racecourse.