A wonderfully fitting winner for Andrew Thornton the day he retired as a jockey at Uttoxeter in front of his family and friends and the weighing room once again showing what a wonderful place it is as all the jockeys came out to cheer him in. Andrew never rode for us but one ride that will always stay in my mind was at Ascot in 2003 on Kingscliff when his rein broke after the 3rd fence but he still managed to win by 17 lengths such was his horsemanship however he’s so modest he doesn’t think that what he did was anything out of the ordinary! Wishing him all the best for the future.
Yesterday Jon and Jack Hughes and I went to see our new Yeats 3 year old who is with Martin Jones and his team at Redmarley being backed. I’ve not seen him as I was away when Gerry Hogan bought him for us at the Sales at Doncaster two weeks ago and I can see why he liked him as he is a lovely sort. Martin’s set up is very good and we met Alan Varey from Batsford Stud there too as he has a mare with Martin who will come here shortly and he is interested in setting up a syndicate for so more about her soon. A worthwhile visit and another couple of youngsters I’m really excited about training.
Liz Juckes, from the British Racing School, was here to do a Health & Safety Inspection on the yard and to see Alfie Jordan, who is on an Apprenticeship with us. She’s a new face here as we’ve recently dealt with Zoe Hammond and it was great to meet her and show her around the yard. She’ll be a regular here know whilst she helps guide Alfie through his Level 2 Diploma and we are pleased to be working with her.
Lots going on here, although no runners today, but we have a BBQ tonight for our Owners so are looking forward to seeing lots of people here later – it’s all systems go as the team help ensure the yard is looking smart.
A huge Happy Birthday to our Chairman Jon Hughes – we look forward to raising a glass to him later although he is as unexcited about Birthdays as I am … mine is looming too!