Gold Mountain ran a blinder at Uttoxeter to finish 2nd, jumping well but just unlucky that the winner was allowed a flyer at the start and gained 5 lengths and beat us by far less. A shame but another great run and yet again surely his time will come to get his head in front as he deserves it.
We didn’t run Ballymountain Boy as, although 3/4 of the course was suitable, it was quicker in the home straight and if in doubt I was never going to risk him.
No runners yesterday so I had the time to take youngest son Harry to his first football match of the season at Northleach against Carterton Under 10s. They were struggling at 3-0 until the end of the 3rd quarter where Harry found his feet and scored twice – the first in particular a great goal. Team-mate big Harry then found the back of the net so they equalised and were thrilled – Carterton were not! Well done Harry!
Horses cantering yesterday and today but all in good form and an exciting bunch.
Jon Hughes & Paul Davis in to meet Belinda about our Open Day on Sunday 15th September – lots of planning to do and I’m so fortunate that they are on the case and have it all in hand! Lots to plan but it will be a fun morning – 11am – 1pm.
Drinks tonight at Paul’s new Bourton on the Water base – cannot believe he has now retired as it seemed such a long time away for so many years. He’ll be an even bigger asset to the yard now he is more hands on. Looking forward to celebrating with him tonight.
Lots of owners in tomorrow. Belinda & Freddie off before dawn to Burghley Horse Trials as Freddie & Blackie are in the Shetland Pony Grand National. Good luck to them – I’ll go back to sleep when they leave I hope! Can’t wait to hear all about it.