|
Ted Spread pulls out first lot
''Risk more than others think is safe.
Care more than others think is wise.
Dream more than others think is practical.
Expect more than others think is possible.
- Cadet maxim
Ted Spread emerges out of the mist at the top of Long Hill
A damp, foggy morning but still the temperature has held up well and, obviously with the fog, there is no wind. The grass on Long Hill is in perfect condition, so a good long 6 furlong canter was the instructions for the first two lots.
Astrovenus (Holly)
Three runners today all at different venues, on different surfaces and under different codes. Starting at Doncaster with Kinsya, who runs in the Leger Legends' race over a mile at 3.45 pm; as you all know, Steve 'The Ec' Smith-Eccles has been riding out on a regular basis, when he hasn't been playing golf, socializing and other such playboy things he finds to do. They both get on well together, so with the ground in our favour and a good draw, he must have a chance if age, arthritis and being able to breathe don't catch up with him and that's only 'The Ec'!!!! At 4.05 pm, we run No Rules in his first handicap hurdle at Uttoxeter; he ran well last time at Beverley on the flat after a good holiday at Garrowby and should take a hand in this contest, as he loves jumping (I am sure he will jump a fence later on) and, I think, he will be one to be consistent and win us a few races this season. To complete our threesome, Comrade Bond runs in the 5.50 pm race, the 5 furlong nursery; he has run consistently this spring/summer without getting his head in front and this looks an opportunity for him today. He handled the surface when he ran here before and he is drawn reasonably well.
Crossing the Moulton Road on the way home
I must make a comment on something that happened yesterday, which is typical of the BHA or for that matter any other out-of-touch sporting administrators. Yesterday, we entered a 2 mile handicap at Goodwood on Sunday at the 6 day stage with the qualifications for entry printed in the Racing Calendar quite clearly for four year olds and upwards. Lo-and-behold, after everybody had entered and a day after the race has closed, they have decided that it should be for three year olds and upwards, so there must have been pressure from people wanting to enter improving three year olds - it is like opening a gate to let everybody in. Why have a programme when things are constantly being changed by people without any concept of our industry? Even if they are working in it. It just beggars belief.
Jasper attempts to shoe Dictate before being eaten
Akula (Ashley) cresting the brow of Long Hill
|
