What a brilliant day of sport yesterday – football and F1 taking priority over racing – the football was fantastic and the dream is very much still alive.
Stunning weather all week – does have us all worrying about the ground drying up too much however mustn’t complain and it’s hot already and not even 7am – much nicer for the team to work in rather than the endless frost and snow of last winter.
Three runners at Southwell this afternoon. Dr Dunraven kicks proceedings off in the 2 mile Handicap Chase – he was put up 11lbs over fences after winning a weak enough race at Worcester which horrified us all – he’s since been dropped 2lbs after a couple of horses he beat have disappointed. We’ll see where we are today – he seems in good form so let’s hope I’m contacting the Handicapper later to apologise for being disappointed with his new mark….
Matravers is next in a 2m Brush Maiden Hurdle and he is partnered by Andrew Tinkler as is Dr D. Both representing our Racing Club so a fun day for them. Such a good time to become involved in our Racing Club – all those going today have free badges and we are often able to obtain further badges at a reduced price too. So much fun for less than £1.50 a day….. Matravers needs to improve on what he’s shown so far but we are learning all the time with him.
Last but by no means least Mr Mafia runs in the final race of the day, partnered as usual by Harry Stock. He’s been a star for us so far winning both of his starts for John Abernethy & Peter Boggis and he seems in great form and is taking it all in his stride. He owes us nothing this summer and although it’s competitive today he should be in the first three and he’d not surprise me if he brought up the hat-trick either.
Physios Maggie Turner and Hannah Ashton in this morning and farrier Nick Partridge too. Kathryn Albutt here for a weeks’ work experience from Chipping Campden School – we’ll make sure she has a fantastic week.