Neither runners yesterday were particularly suited by Fontwell’s twists and turns which you don’t know until you try them. Sugar Storm ran a much improved race though. Young Phoenix was never happy and Andrew reported that the track didn’t suit, he found the watered ground not to his liking and he’s returned with two cuts on his hind legs – both ok but were enough for the vet to clean and bandage. Both horses ok today which is always the most important thing.
All horses did a couple of quiet canters today and a few coming back in from their early holidays – it’s frightening how quick 6 – 8 weeks go by and those turned out at the beginning of April have had 8 – 10 weeks out! We never like them out for much more than that and keep a close eye on them as if they get grossly fat then it puts unnecessary strain on everything and they take much longer and are harder to get fit again. One of the many benefits of keeping them here is that I see them every day and can monitor them more closely.
Off to Martin Jones’ yard today to see a variety of youngsters including the Yeats 3 year old that we purchased at Doncaster 10 days ago. A very interesting morning no doubt and accompanied by Jon & Jack Hughes.
I must have been in a hurry yesterday to forget to mention that I took the family on our annual trip to Giffords Circus at Daylesford on Monday as the boys were off school due to a Teacher Training Day. It was absolutely superb and Tweedy the Clown was as entertaining as ever. This year, we all agreed, was the best we’ve seen with dancing Dachshunds and shetland ponies to a singing turkey and wonderful old fashioned circus tricks to wow us all. They are touring all summer and it is a performance I highly recommend. Brilliant.