Martin's Blog

Saturday 4th September 2010 - Happy Birthday Rach!

Joe Stainer in first lot to enjoy an exciting morning on the gallops with lots of the nice winter horses doing their first pieces of fast work. Twelve of the fourteen horses out first lot were working. The two who didn't work were Benbane Head who I rode and birthday girl Rachel on Any Currency - these just did two canters and are feeling great.

Warren was in and worked Wolf Moon with Magda on Total Submission then De Forgotten Man (Steffi) worked up with King Ozzy who was being ridden by Deb Butler. Next up was Champion Court (Danny) and Busby Berkeley (Tom Bellamy) and then Mauricetheathlete (Lee Moulson) worked with Ukrainian Star (Pete). Monty's Revenge (David Hilton) worked with Conington (Dominic) and finally Won More Night (Marie) worked with Hamalac (Nigel). It was fantastic to see them all step up in pace and do nice pieces of work easily on the bridle.

A new inmate arrived from Nessie Sweeting's pre-training yard down in Cornwall last night and looked fabulous and well. He is called Saffron Lord and is owned by Mr & Mrs Chenery from Lower Slaughter. He's had one educational run in a bumper and is out of Jan's Dream a mare who the Chenery's enjoyed success with when trained by Paul Webber a few years ago. We hope he is as nice as he looks and are delighted that the Chenery's chose to bring him to us.

It was then off to Moreton Show with Belinda, Freddie & Harry which wasn't going to be the easiest of days as Belinda's father John was on the Moreton Show Committee for many years, was a founder member of the Attractions Ring and many of the features of today's Show were initiated by him. As well as the Thelwell Pony Comptetition (a competition for Freddie for future years!) and the Terrier Racing, he was heavily involved in the Vintage Tractor Competition and Belinda & her brother Peter, assisted by Freddie & Peter's children Izzy & Wills, presented a trophy in his memory to the worthy winner.

Thursday 2nd September 2010

Sadly yesterday at Hereford it wasn't The Fox's Decree's day as I had hoped it would be. He didn't quite have the run of the race but the winner was only 29 lengths behind Benbane Head at Cheltenham last season and seemed to be back to something like that form yesterday. Foxy plugged on to be 2nd though so another consistent run and more prize money but back to the drawing board to try and find a winning opportunity for him.

Yard sponsor Mark Boothright visited this morning and we took him to Jon Trice-Rolph's with us to watch Monty's Revenge (Warren) and Hamalac (Tom Siddall) schooling over showjumps, hurdles and tyres. Jonny described Monty's Revenge as 'workmanlike' and he had definately improved since his last visit. He is a real trier and is definately stronger this time and won't be too far off his debut and could run in a Bumper or over Hurdles. Hamalac, who hadn't left the ground before, was a real athlete, a total natural and Tom looked to thoroughly enjoy himself. He pleasantly surprised us all and was jumping the big tyres easily by the end of the session.

Freddie enjoyed watching the horses for most of the session but was pleased to go off and play golf with Mark Boothright in Jonny's very own mini golf course next to his cross-country jumps even though Mark did manage to land a ball on Freddie's head! Belinda is still hoping Freddie goes down the golfing route rather than race-riding?!

David Hilton was in for a couple of lots and he rode Mauricetheathlete first lot and took Havingotascoobydo for a walk and trot second lot. He is in great form and very bright following his win on Tuesday.

Wednesday 1st September 2010 - Havingotascoobydo is an impressive winner at Newton Abbot!

We had a great afternoon yesterday at Newton Abbot with newcomer Havingotascoobydo winning. Another horse selected by Gerry Hogan, who does so well for us, I had hoped for a good run but even so was still pleasantly surprised with his easy 14 length success. He pulled a little hard to start with but Warren settled him however he showed how green he was when he pulled clear up the run-in and was looking around at the crowd. He'll come on in leaps and bounds from this experience and will now have a month off before coming back for a winter campaign.

As I mentioned in yesterday's Blog, there are shares still available in him I think - David & Colin who are part of his owners' The League of Gentlemen were understandably very impressed as well yesterday and there was talk of keeping him all for themselves! However, do give me a call as that was the initial plan and come and see Scooby in the flesh. A smart individual, it was great to hear Mick Fitzgerald telling the Attheraces viewers that he was by far the pick of the Paddock. Warren was buzzing about him afterwards and, having not looked around up the run-in, was surprised quite how far he won by!

Philip Searle came to see us this morning. He has a share in Sky Calling and spent time watching the horses canter, looking at them all in their stables and talking to the team. After a season off, we hope that Sky can reward all her syndicate with a fun season and I'd like to remind you that there are a couple of shares left in her too. She's a tough consistent mare who, once fit, generally stands her racing well so is ideal for a syndicate.

Today I am off to Hereford with The Fox's Decree. Foxy is in great form and it isn't a great race so I am hopeful he can get his head in front following plenty of consistent performances. His last run can be forgiven as he pulled far too hard early on and therefore didn't get the trip. We'll hope he can settle much better today and certainly deserves to win a race. He too is for sale and is another who is consistent and stands plenty of racing.

Tuesday 31st August 2010

Thick fog to start this morning but then it cleared and became a beautiful morning. A few horses worked on the grass this morning including Hamalac under the watchful eye of part owner Jackie Hands and her beloved dog.

We are lucky to be able to still use the grass despite a hot drying weekend as I recently purchased a watering system which attaches to my quad bike and allows me to water the grass gallop. This has proved an invaluable tool and has even enabled me to water the schooling ground and allow useful schooling sessions on the grass which normally would have been on the all weather instead due to firm ground. We are lucky to have our own seemingly endless water supply too.

Warren was pleased with Le Brocquy who was 2nd at Huntingdon yesterday. He battled on up the run-in to hold that placing and jumped well despite Warren reporting that the new fences there are the biggest he has jumped for a long time. That may explain the erratic jumping from a number of his rivals in the race! Although not always trying his hardest, Le Brocquy has been really consistent this summer but we still hope we can get his head in front again soon.

Today I run Havingotascoobydo in the Bumper at Newton Abbot. He's been with us for about a month having won a point to point in Ireland on his fourth attempt and is a nice horse. We toyed with the idea of turning him straight out without running him as he will definately improve for a break but he came fit and well and so we've decided to give him just one run. Although he won his point in heavy ground, Warren is convinced he is a much better horse at home on good ground however I took the chance yesterday to declare him today when I saw the race was cutting up a little as I was worried Hereford tomorrow may go too quick. This decision has been justified as it is already quicker than I would have run him on at Hereford.

The booking of A P McCoy on Charlie Egerton's horse and also Joe Tizzard doing a relatively light weight on his dad's horse at this time of year suggests they both fancy their chances too however we think a lot of Scooby and hope he'll be with them in the shake up. Shares are available in Scooby so we are even more hopeful of a respectable run! There is no doubt in my mind he'll be an even nicer horse after a holiday though and I'm already looking forward to a winter campaign with him.

Monday 30th August 2010

We enjoyed a delicious lunch at The Plough on Saturday with most of the team from North Park Farm Racing - mostly made up of the Jackson family. They are a really good fun crowd and have an exciting team for this season which will hopefully give us all plenty of enjoyment. They are in pre-training at the moment and will be coming back to me soon.

A busy bank holiday Monday morning with lots of gallop watchers. Sue and Archie Bellamy came in to watch Archie's brother Tom putting Havingotascoobydo through his paces ahead of his debut in a bumper for us at Newton Abbot tomorrow.

Merete Hass, who was with us last summer for work experience, brought her mother in along with her aunty and uncle, Chris & Helen Gerring who have a share in Sky Calling. It is always great to see them all and especially Merete who we'd all like to see far more of. She came laden with delicious homemade biscuits for us all whicih were much appreciated.

New member of staff Dominic Wood brought his parents in to watch him on Ukrainian Star and they were surprised how much cooler it was with us than at their home near Winchcombe - just under 20 minutes away. It is definately a different climate up here!

My dad Trevor and Freddie were the final work watchers and Freddie was excited to watch his mummy Belinda back in the saddle on Total Submission and she has vowed to try and ride out a lot more having thoroughly enjoyed it this morning. My mum and dad have headed back to Yorkshire today but undoubtedly will be back within a fortnight to see their grandchildren!

Today's runner is Le Brocquy over fences at Huntingdon under Warren Marston. There are horses with form in the race however I am hoping that under a positive ride from Warren he should run well having run a blinder for Danny Hiskett over hurdles last time. He's had an hour or so out in the paddock this morning so we are hopeful his head is in a good place!

Saturday 28th August 2010

A beautiful morning for a change and great to see Steve & Trish Harman who came to watch Conington put through her paces by Tom Siddall who was in again this morning.

Warren was in for two lots and worked Havingotascoobydo first lot who worked very well with Steffi on The Fox's Decree. Scooby and Foxy both could run in the next week. Others that worked included Spring Moon, Won More Night, Conington, Monty's Revenge, Hamalac and Le Brocquy.

My parents are down for the weekend and got up early this morning to get here and beat the traffic and also so that dad could watch first lot.

Second lot we just cantered and Tom Siddall liked our relatively new inmate Champion Court and Warren rode Busby Berkeley and liked him a lot. As usual I rode Benbane Head and he feels in great form.

Horses having completed their first full week of cantering include Rodrigo Gonzales, today ridden by Tom Bellamy, Mark of Love (Danny) and Any Currency (Rachel).

Friday 27th August 2010 - Tom back in the saddle!

It was fantastic to have Tom Siddall riding out two lots for us this morning - the first time he has sat on a horse in months following the serious neck injury he sustained in the Grand National in April. He was so keen to be back that he was even early here this morning which was a nice surprise!

He rode Total Submission first lot who we knew would be very well mannered and give him a nice introduction back! He's been working hard having physio at Oaksey House in Lambourn and was given the 'ok' to ride out again following satisfactory xrays yesterday. He hasn't got a date for when he will be able to race ride again but will obviously be hoping it is as soon as possible.

Warren was in for two lots and schooled The Fox's Decree over hurdles first lot and Le Brocquy over fences. Steffi schooled King Ozzy over hurdles leading Tom Bellamy on Conington who was very good and Danny schooled Spring Moon over hurdles before switching to take Ozzy up over the fences. They all jumped well which is always a relief for me on a schooling morning!

It was great to hear from Phillip Sherrif yesterday who was a part-owner of Pavanne who we trained earlier this year. He had problems and Phillip found him a new home and apparently he is really happy there and having plenty of tlc. Always fantastic to hear especially for a sweet little horse like Pavanne who was very much liked by everyone in the yard.

There are plenty of horses who are doing their slow canter work and not yet fit enough to be schooling or doing fast work and therefore haven't had much of a mention on here. We had an email yesterday asking how Wolf Moon was and he is in great form, quite fresh and Rachel is having to sit tight on him! Others who look incredibly well and I am looking forward to doing more with in due course include Busby Berkeley and Ukrainian Star. I will make sure as the work steps up with the rest that they will get a mention on here and aren't forgotten!

Wednesday 25th August 2010

A quiet week with no runners probably until next week. Another very wet day and hard to believe it is August as it feels more like winter.

I was in charge of Freddie & Harry until late last night as Belinda and Rachel were lucky enough to see Hollywood Actress Whoopi Goldberg star in Sister Act at the London Palladium. They said it was absolutely amazing and both thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Magda is due back from Poland tomorrow as she has been visiting friends and family since the beginning of the month.

Mauricetheathlete came back last weekend and is in good form. He has come to us ready to go on and start his canter work having done all his slow road work with his owner Geoff Slatter whose daughter-in-law Angela and grandsons would have probably shared the riding out of him. He looks great and will be all the better for a lovely break no doubt.

Monday 23rd August 2010

Like most of the country we had quite a bit of rain over the weekend and had torrential rain last night. However, I'm not complaining as I spent a lot of time at the weekend spiking the grass gallop and with the rain that then fell it meant that we can now use it and the surface was superb. I am not surprised to learn that August has been the month with the most rainfall this year and cannot believe we are on the grass at this time of year.

Sundays are usually rest days for the horses but I decided to work some and had some potential new owners coming in to have a look at the facilities so it worked well. Warren worked The Fox's Decree with Danny on Gentle John, Steffi worked Spring Moon upsides Tom Bellamy on Monty's Revenge and I just cantered Total Submission who isn't ready to work yet. Danny then worked Won More Night second lot with Tom on Havingotascoobydo. All went well and it was a beautiful morning and ideal for showing off our facilities. Excitingly yesterdays potential owners liked what they saw and the new horse is arriving early September and I can tell you all about it then.

This morning we had Johnny Farrelly in for a couple of lots and also David Hilton back in too. Johnny has been coming in a bit lately and with horses sure to be at different meetings on the same day during the winter, there will hopefully be some opportunities for him.

Most of the string did two canters up the grass today and they absolutely loved it. We are so lucky to have such great mile & a quarter grass gallops as it definitely helps get horses fit and teach youngsters their job rather than just having to use an all weather surface.

Saturday 21st August 2010

Yesterday Marie did an amazing job to get Ponchatrain to Bangor as no-one realised the 'V'Festival was on at Weston Park and thus it took them 2 hours to drive 4 miles and they then escaped up the hard shoulder. How he got there on time is unbelievable .. he just about had time to spend a couple of minutes in the stable yard and get checked by the vet to confirm he was happy for him to run before we saddled him up and rushed him to the Paddock. All the horses had gone and were cantering to post and we were greeted with a lonely looking Tom O'Brien who was standing in for Warren who'd not made it in time to weigh out. Tom gave him a great ride but no doubt the awful journey took it out of him and he finished 5th.

It was long journey for me too from York via my parents home to Bangor and I didn't escape the traffic either. It would have been a fairytale had Ponchatrain won but it wasn't to be and he'll have a bit of a break before running again.

We had a very busy morning! Miranda Theobald was in first lot and rode King Ozzy who she loves. Amateur Jockey David Hilton was in for the first time and rode Monty's Revenge. David rides well and wants to come in regularly and it will be good to build up our base of amateur jockeys in the yard.

Lee Moulson from Warwick Racecourse was in to ride out 2nd lot and it was great to see him. He rode Conington and Warren was also in 2nd lot and rode Total Submission whose owners Andrew & Louise Jones were in to watch him and the rest of their string including Benbane Head who looks and feels amazing at the moment and is very exciting. Louise brought her aunty and uncle Bill and auntyErica and they came with goodies for Freddie and Harry which was much appreciated. Even more spoilt than them though was Belinda who received gorgeous birthday presents from Andrew & Louise and Miranda too.

Tom Bellamy rode Havingotascoobydo who has settled in well and is filling his frame having looked very lean and fit when he arrived. One of Scooby's owners David Bishop arrived to see him mid morning and was delighted with how he is looking. Do have a look at the picture of him that we took today under the Horses in Training section on this website and give me a call to come and see him.

Friday 20th August 2010

Le Brocquy was given a great ride by Danny yesterday at Stratford and looked nothing but the winner all the way up the run-in and, although we were absolutely delighted with his run, to lose 2nd on the line by a head is always frustrating. It was Danny's birthday on Wednesday so it would have been a good belated birthday present for him had he won.

The forecast rain didn't arrive early enough for King Ozzy and having spoken with jockeys from the chase before owner Graham Hollick was keen not to risk him - there is always another day.

York was great fun and with the rain having got to Bangor already I am hopeful of Ponchatrain running a big race today and overcoming the disappointment of his disqualification from 1st last time at Southwell. We eventually decided not to appeal that decision, mainly due to the fact it was going to cost nearly as much as the prize money with no guarantee of winning however we still feel very hard done by.

Thursday 19th August 2010

I am up at York Races today as a guest of Mark Boothright and our yard sponsors 7 Day Catering. It is the second year I have been and if last year is anything to go by it will be another cracking day and night and I'll feel a little worse for wear tomorrow! I've got a lift up there and my dad is collecting me from York tomorrow and we are going to Bangor where I run Ponchatrain. Dad is then coming back to the yard with me and staying for the weekend when he will then unfortunately take mum home with him! She's been a great help especially for Belinda.

Today Belinda is respresenting me at Stratford where I have two runners. Le Brocquy runs in the Amateur Riders Hurdle under Danny Hiskett and should have conditions to suit. We will see how he performs as he reverts to hurdles after two runs over fences. My second runner is King Ozzy under Sam Twiston-Davies who needs to bounce back from a disappointing run last time following an impressive win at Bangor. I think I ran him too quick after his win. He won at Stratford last summer over hurdles so he likes the track. My mum is going with Belinda as well as Freddie & Harry so I hope the boys behave for them!

Mark Caswell was in this morning and has hopefully exterminated the wasps that were near the house. He calls in regularly to ensure there are no rats or any other sinister creatures lurking around the yard!

Wednesday 18th August 2010

No luck yesterday at Worcester. Victor Daly looked the winner turning for home having jumped and travelled well on his return to hurdles but faded to finish 4th at the line. We'll check him out fully as there has to be a reason as he was in great form. Jimmy was meant to drop Le Brocquy in but also ensure he didn't give any ground away but they went a lot quicker than when he rode him last time at Bangor and, having jumped off last he didn't manage to properly get into the race.

Last night after racing, Belinda and my mum joined me and yard sponsor Mark Boothright at The Plough for supper and Mark arrived laden with goodies for Belinda's birthday and also for Harry which were much appreciated and very generous of him. Supper was delicious despite being a little bit later as all of us thought someone else was booking the table and therefore no table was booked! Usually at 6.45pm on a Tuesday night this wouldn't be a problem but not at The Plough which is always full! As usual, they did fit us in!

Belinda booked a table for lunch there today as soon as Andrew Jones rang to say he was in the area and would like to meet up. Booking wasn't totally necessary today but she wasn't taking any chances! It was great to see Andrew and we took my mum along too as well as little Harry who slept the whole time we were there. Freddie was at his childminder and we couldn't tell him we'd been to The Plough or seen Andrew as he'd have been very sad to miss out on both!

Tuesday 17th August 2010

Belinda had a lovely birthday yesterday and was spoilt rotten by all of us. It was lovely to see Peter Andrews, who called in to see De Forgotten Man and Busby Berkeley and also deliver a much appreciated bottle of champagne to the birthday girl!

Graham Hollick also called in to see King Ozzy and bring Belinda some flowers. However we have all decided that the real reason for his visit was to play in the garden with Freddie who, he was delighted to see, has been bought a set of golf clubs by his grandparents! Graham went and got one of his golf clubs from the car and he proceeded to teach Freddie the tricks of the trade. However, long after Freddie's attention span had ceased and he'd moved on to playing with his tractor, Graham was still playing golf in the garden! Graham & Freddie then decided to have races down hill over a jump and finishing off by throwing themselves to the ground shouting 'jockey down'! We did wonder how Graham explained the grass stains on his very smart outfit when he got home!!

Today we have two runners at Worcester. Le Brocquy runs under Jimmy Derham in the 2 mile Handicap Chase. If he jumps as well as he did at Bangor behind King Ozzy last time, improves on that run and enjoys himself he should go close.

Victor Daly runs in the 3 mile Novices' Hurdle with Warren Marston and he's in good form. It would be nice to see him bounce back after a disappointing run last time. He seems well in at the weights.

Monday 16th August 2010 - More birthday greetings!

Today is Belinda's birthday and she becomes the same age as me again - quite a few years younger than yesterday's birthday girl I hasten to add! Birthday greetings already pouring in and a quiet day planned before we are off out to dinner tonight - my dad & brother going home today leaving my mum here for the week so a babysitter already sorted!

Lots of rain over the weekend means we can school over hurdles and fences on the grass today. Warren in for one lot to help with schooling and Jimmy Derham in for three lots too. Today's schoolers are The Fox's Decree, Le Brocquy, Victor Daly and King Ozzy over hurdles and Victor, Ozzy, Ponchatrain and Le Brocquy over fences.

Graham Hollick here after lunch to see King Ozzy and discuss where we run him this week.

I must mention Amy Franklin-Stokes who rides out for us and is taking part in the London to Paris Bike Ride in aid of Sue Ryder Care - Leckhampton Hospice from 1st - 4th September. You can sponsor her by clicking here. Please give generously for this worthwhile cause.

Sunday 15th August 2010 - Birthday greetings!

Happy Birthday to HRH The Princess Royal who is 60 today. I hope lots of you watched the fantastic programme on her shown this last week at various times on the BBC. It was a great insight to her life and through their interviews with Zara and Peter, the programme not only shows what a great job she has done in bringing them up but also their love and admiration for her. I thought The Princess came across very well too - as the hard working, no-nonsense, person that she is with a great sense of humour.

Having known her since our days as teenagers with The Duke she has been a great supporter sending me four horses to train over the last year. Now all she needs is a bit of luck as we'd love to train her a winner. Let's hope that happens in her 60th year.

My parents are down this weekend and my mum is staying for the week to look after us so we shall no doubt be spoilt with wonderful home cooking as well as washing, ironing & babysitting all week! In fact we already have two nights out planned!

It is unbelievable to think that Harry is already a month old. There seems to be no end to the cards and presents that still arrive most days and we are very grateful to you all for your kindness. We keep running out of thank you cards!

Freddie, who is nearly 2 1/2 years old, announced this morning that he wants to be a jockey! His mum wasn't too impressed with that statement!

Friday 13th August 2010

Rick Allen and his daughter Abby were in this morning along with Jackie Hands to watch Hamalac work with Gentle John. Abby was more keen to see Harry though - understandably (!) and had a cuddle with him after 1st lot which he was quite pleased about too!

Warren worked The Fox's Decree first lot with Marie on Ponchatrain and I was pleased with both of them. Ponchatrain's usual work rider, Magda, is back in Poland this month visiting her family and will no doubt be missing him like mad. Le Brocquy (Tom Bellamy) worked with Victor Daly (Steffi) and both of these have various entries in the next week and are well. I worked King Ozzy with Rachel on Spring Moon and Ozzy also has a few entries in the next few days.

Most of the Team went to The Plough for lunch as we have had Sophie Jenns on work experience from Cambridge University for the last two weeks and wanted to give her a good send off. Jonjo & Jackie O'Neill were also there with a gang of people so it was obviously the place to be this lunchtime! Sophie has been a great help and we wish her lots of luck for the future.

Thursday 12th August 2010

Apologies for the lack of blog this week - no excuses! Warren has been in most of the week riding out which is always a help.

On Tuesday Mark Allen was was in to see the two horses that he syndicates out - Rodrigo Gonzales and Sky Calling who are both back in work following absences. There are still shares available in Sky Calling who, although is returning from a year off, is the type of mare that should give her owners a lot of fun this season probably over fences. She jumps like a bunny and is one Warren is certainly looking forward to riding.

A couple of members of The Class Act Partnership came to see Ukrainian Star on Tuesday too who Warren rode second lot. He is a lovely horse and although has not been with us long, is becoming very popular in the yard as he is a good ride and a nice 'person' too.

This morning I took two horses for schooling at Jon Trice-Rolph's. Warren rode Monty's Revenge and Danny rode Spring Moon. Monty's Revenge was very suspicious of everything to start with but soon clicked with Warren and was really enjoying himself at the end of the session and jumping for fun. He'll be a different horse this year as had all sorts of problems last season. Spring Moon is another one who will have benefitted from last season's educational runs and a summer on his back. He is a totally different type of horse and is naturally very athletic and found everything quite easy today. Two nice youngsters to look forward to this season.

A new horse arrived early this morning from Ireland called Havingotascoobydo or Scooby as he'll be known in the yard. He is for the same syndicate who own Ponchatrain and there is room for a few others so do give me a call if you are interested. He won his last point to point in Ireland by 10 lengths and looks fit and ready to go. I am excited about him and think he could make into a really nice horse.

Sunday 8th August 2010

We had a lovely family day at Gatcombe Horse Trials yesterday and Andrew & Louise Jones came too. We saw lots of friends and it was great to bump into Princess Anne and hear that First Watch is a very good patient and seems to be recovering from his injury really well. She is also pleased with her mare Middle Watch who we have recently sent back as she wasn't strong enough to make the grade as a racehorse at the moment. The Princess said she'd benefitted greatly from her experience here and she's pleased with her.

The Princess was surprised to see Belinda up and about pushing Harry in his three wheeler across the difficult Gatcombe terrain so soon after giving birth. However Harry wasn't the youngest person there as we also bumped into Warren & Tessa Greatrex with their new baby girl 'Evie' who is just a week old.

Before I left I rode out Benbane Head who is feeling very fresh at the moment and has just completed his first week of cantering. Horses that worked included The Fox's Decree (Warren) and Le Brocquy (Tom Bellamy) first lot and Ponchatrain (Marie) and Victor Daly (Tom Bellamy) second lot and they were all pleased with how they worked. Miranda was glad to be cantering Total Submission who has also been back cantering for a week.

This morning I have had John Morris and a colleague from 'Jumping Prospects' book with me for about three hours going through all the horses in the yard and my plans and hopes for them this season. After a long chat I showed them around the horses who were enjoying their Sunday turned out in their individual paddocks and they were impressed with the strength and depth of the string. I look forward to seeing who they have chosen to feature in the book and to reading all about their thoughts on them. Before they started I did apologise if I wasn't totally on the ball as we didn't have much sleep last night - Harry was so well behaved at Gatcombe he blotted his copybook by being awake most of the night!

Friday 6th August 2010

Fresh horses everywhere and it is great to see them feeling so well and in such high spirits. A few fallers though including Rachel, Danny, Nige and, this morning it was Marie's turn as The Fox's Decree showed his wellbeing! No injuries, I'm glad to report!

Deep Reflection is our only runner today at Worcester and is in good form but you never know with him and it will be very difficult to beat the favourite. I hope he runs well though as it is Harry's first day racing! We'll see.

Tuesday 3rd August 2010

A fantastic night in The Plough on Sunday to celebrate King Ozzy's win 10 days ago at Bangor. Owner Graham Hollick was in great form and doing plenty of dancing along with party animal wife Karon! Eldest daughter Laura also came but joined Belinda in watching rather than participating! They kindly brought us an amazing basket packed full of baby goodies for Harry, chocolates for Belinda and Freddie and a few pints of guinness for me, all beautifully wrapped up.

Whilst Belinda & I called time at midnight (bearing in mind we had a baby due to wake up for a feed when we got home and again a few hours later too!) and Karon & Laura went home a little earlier however Waz, Graham and some of the others were still there partying for another few hours!

Warren was in for two lots today and rode Total Submission and Champions Court. I was on a very fresh Benbane Head first lot and plenty of the others are feeling quite fresh and well too! It is a dangerous time of year for riding out!

I am at Doncaster Sales tomorrow meeting up with Gerry Hogan who has selected a few horses for me to look at. Do give me a call if you fancy having a horse in training here.

Sunday 1st August 2010

A sad goodbye this morning to Palmers Peak who has been such a legend of a horse for our yard. However, not really sad as he has a lovely life ahead of him at the same retraining yard that Sarrococca is doing so well at with Kim Shortall near Bromyard in Worcestershire. Joe Stainer came over to say goodbye to him too and there were a few tears from Belinda (which she blamed on her hormones!) and we did plenty of reminiscing about all the fun days and wins we've had with him. We've all come so far since his debut when he won his Maiden with Belinda at Kingston Blount back in February 2005.

A party at The Plough tonight with Graham Hollick and all the team to celebrate King Ozzy's win at Bangor 10 days ago. Going by the wild night we had there last summer when Ozzy won at Stratford it is sure to be a fun night again tonight! We've got Warren's sister Joanne babysitting and Belinda is having her first night out since having Harry - no wild night for her though as she's designated driver!!

Saturday 31st July 2010

A relatively busy Saturday morning with extra rider outers including Tom Bellamy, who has been with us all week, and Miranda Theobald. Victor Daly and Le Brocquy worked this morning and Rachel and Tom were pleased with how they went. All the rest had a quiet cantering day apart from those who have just come in who went for a nice hack around the roads.

No winner yesterday at Bangor. King Ozzy just didn't get the longer trip of 2m 4f with the gallop as strong as it was and will now be dropped back to 2m 1f next time out. Deep Reflection needs everything in his favour and also banged himself before the last and Jimmy Derham thought he'd gone wrong. Luckily he seems fine so we'll find another opportunity for him in the next few weeks. Warren got a lift with us yesterday and had his comeback ride on one for Milton Harris. He gave it a superb ride and came back in the best possible way - with a winner which was great and we hope to supply him with plenty more of those this season.

My parents have gone home today and we are going to miss having them around as we have certainly got used to be cooked for and having all the washing and ironing done! They've been a great help with Freddie & Harry too but will be back to see us in a fortnight.

Andrew & Louise Jones came to visit fresh from a fortnight in Spain and it was great to see them. Since they have been away their winter horses Benbane Head, Wolf Moon, Total Submission and Spring Moon have all come back into work and they were pleased with how they all looked. Freddie was very excited (and lucky) to have a sit in the drivers' seat of Andrew's brand new red Ferrari!

Friday 30th July 2010 - Belinda back in the saddle!

Just two weeks after giving birth to little Harry, Belinda rode out first lot this morning on Total Submission with me on Benbane Head. We only went for a walk and a trot around the villages but she was delighted to get back on and Tots looked after her! Benny was a different matter altogether and was his usual spooky self so she was very glad she'd chosen to ride Tots as he is so good.

Two runners at Bangor and we are taking Warren too who has a ride on a horse of Milton Harris's and it will be great to see him back in action.

As I said yesterday, my two runner are ridden by Jimmy Derham as he can claim 5lbs off them and they both have plenty of weight. Both competitive races and any rain will help both their causes. Half the weather forecasts I've watched in the last 24 hours say the rain won't get there in time and the other half say it will - fingers crossed! Tom Bellamy, who has been riding out lots this summer holidays, is coming racing too and Dad is today's chauffeur!

Thursday 29th July 2010

A busy morning with Jimmy Derham in for three lots. Tom Bellamy was also in and cantered Victor Daly first lot but Victor should have gone out second lot as his owners Chris & Candia Compton had arranged to come and watch him canter. So I'm doing what Belinda has been doing lately and blaming a baby brain!! Luckily Chris & Candia were fine about it but I was very embarrassed!

My dad came back today and him and my mum took Freddie to Birdland this afternoon and he was very excited watching the penquins being fed!

Two runners tomorrow - King Ozzy and Deep Reflection - at Bangor and both should have cracking chances and are in good form. Competitive races but they both won last time and I am hopeful of a bold show from them both. Jimmy Derham rides to claim 5lb off as both have plenty of weight. However I am delighted to say that Waz is back race riding tomorrow and it is great to have him back.

Wednesday 28th July 2010

During the summer holidays we have Tom Bellamy riding out nearly every day. He's desperate to leave school to be a jump jockey but has another year left which he hopes flies by.

I would like to wish Joe Stainer a Happy Birthday for yesterday. Joe's beloved Palmers Peak has recently been retired but we have found him a lovely new home where he will probably go this weekend. He goes to join Sarrococca, who won for us at Wetherby 2 1/2 years ago, and is doing very well at British Dressage. It will be a fantastic home for him and Belinda, in particular, is delighted that we've found him such a good home.

A quiet week without any runners until possibly Friday at Bangor. I started riding out again yesterday after my summer break and possibly need to lose a pound or two! After I got back in on Victor Daly yesterday, Freddie had a short sit on him in the yard as he is a lovely quiet horse and Freddie has not stopped talking about it since. He even slept with his riding hat on his bed next to him last night!

Little Harry excelled himself on Monday night by sleeping through the whole night much to his parent's delight! Last night wasn't quite as good but he's still a good little boy and we hope he stays as content and easy as he has been so far. Thank you for the lovely messages that continue to flood in. My father went home on Sunday leaving my mother here all week and she's been a star doing all our ironing, lots of bottle feeding of Harry and cooking us wonderful suppers every night. My father is back tomorrow for a couple of days and they both go home, sadly, on Saturday leaving us to our own devices!

A super piece in the Gloucestershire Echo today with a big picture on the back page of myself, Belinda, Freddie, Harry and King Ozzy. Freddie took a bit of a dislike to the photographer as he had a beard and Freddie's frightened by men with beards (!) so wouldn't co-operate very well. Poor Ozzy was very patient whilst Marie tried to make him prick his ears and the photographer kept on at Belinda to try and get Harry to open his eyes! To read it click here.

Monday 26th July 2010

Harry is settling down to life at Luckley and has actually mostly been sleeping quite well at night..give or take a night with only a couple of hours sleep! Yesterday we decided at aged 9 days old he needed to have his first trip to The Plough which will become his second home as we spend quite a lot of time there meeting friends & entertaining owners.

We had a very enjoyable afternoon and Freddie was very excited when he arrived to see that Craig had decorated the children's house in the garden with a banner saying 'Freddie's House'! I'm afraid Freddie does refer to it as 'his house' and he has to be reminded regularly to let other children into it as well as it isn't his exclusively! He takes after his Grandad John who used to refer to the pub as 'his' - Freddie's just keeping it in the family!!

We ate our lunch in the garden surrounded by jockeys and most of those were the ones on the sidelines - including Choc Thornton & his wife Meally, Tom Siddall, Wayne Hutchinson & Warren (who hopes to be back this week). Landlord Craig tried to beat most of them at table tennis and there is no-one more competitive than Craig.

Saturday 24th July 2010

Very much an up and down end to the week...

Unexpectedly Belinda & Harry were allowed out on Thursday which was so exciting and I didn't even mind turning around 5 minutes away from the Hospital to drive a 40 mile round trip via home to get the compulsory car seat to take him home in! It meant quite a bit of visitor rearranging though as she had a busy afternoon planned especially her godmother Anita who was on her way up in the train from Chichester. She then had to get a taxi to Luckley as our car was full with Freddie wanting to come and help bring his Mummy & little brother home. Belinda was over the moon to see her and my Dad kindly took her back to Cheltenham Train Station.

Our next runner was Ponchatrain yesterday at Southwell under Tom Scudamore. He'd been in great form at home and we were hoping for a bold show. He jumped and settled well under a great ride from Tom and battled up the home straight to 'win' by a head. We then had to sit out a Stewards Enquiry as Ponchatrain veered right handed up the run in towards the odds on favourite. Unfortunately the Stewards did Tom for 'careless riding' and therefore had to place Ponchatrain 2nd even though the 3rd placed horse was deemed 'accidental' when it was pulled the same way by it's jockey. We feel absolutely robbed (and I was delighted to receive a phone call from a member of the public last night who felt so strongly they had to ring me and agree we were robbed) as Tom did everything he could to keep him straight, pulling his stick through faster than anyone else would have done.

I hate 2nds and that one was made even worse as Ponchatrain battled and was a head up crossing the line. Very disappointing for his supportive owners.

We are appealing so will keep you posted.

So the ups were most definately getting Harry & Belinda safely home and also Ponchatrain's 'win' which we enjoyed for about 10 minutes. The downs were not only losing the race but also sadly losing President Hill on Thursday, a gorgeous horse who won point to pointing for us and had then been retired as a useful horse to have around the yard. At 12 years old he had been with Dolly Maude and her family for a few weeks to be retrained so we could find a suitable new permanent home for him.

'Ronnie' (or Ronnie Rocket who Belinda called him as he was such a good work horse at home) unfortunately came down with colic on Thursday and, at 12 years old and needing a massive colic operation the kindest and most sensible decision was to have him put to sleep. He'd have needed some of his gut removed and, along with the vets, we decided it wasn't fair at his age to put him through it all. Poor Belinda adored him and so I didn't ruin her joy at being home on Thursday by telling her then but sadly had to tell her yesterday before she found out from elsewhere. As sad as she is, he is out of pain and little Harry's not giving her much time to dwell on it!

Thursday 22nd July 2010 - Lucky Harry!

Well Harry certainly seems to be our new lucky charm as our only runner yesterday, Deep Reflection, bolted up at Worcester over hurdles. Jimmy Derham gave him a great ride following instructions to the letter and was second approaching the last with the eventual runner up seemingly looking like he had enough of a lead to not be caught. However, I told Jimmy never to give up on

Deep Reflection and he got a great jump at the last and sprouted wings flying by the runner-up as if he was standing still and winning easily in the end. The rain had come down in buckets which really helped us too.

It was great that my parents were at Worcester with Freddie too so it was a real family affair although Belinda & Harry would have preferred to be racing rather than still stuck in hospital. She listened to the race on a race commenatary line and was getting very excited whilst at the same time trying not to wake little Harry!

Jonathan Herbert of the Gloucestershire Echo reported the events of the last week in their edition tonight - click here to read it.

Two more lovely horses are arriving back today. De Forgotten Man and Busby Berkeley summered with their owners Peter & Trish Andrews and I am really excited about the season ahead of them too.

Happy Birthday to Belinda's sister in law Michelle today!

Wednesday 21st July 2010 - King Ozzy Wins!

The birth of Harry has changed our luck and our very next runner, King Ozzy, won last night over fences at Bangor in awesome style. Given a superb positive ride by Richard Johnson, he absolutely loved it out in front on rain softened ground, jumped for fun and won as he liked with his ears pricked. Great for his patient owner Graham Hollick who, although would have loved Warren on board, was very happy with his choice of replacement as he has known Dickie for many years.

Our other runner in the race was Le Brocquy who was making his debut over fences under Jimmy Derham. He was quite keen and I was very concerned that the rain had ruined his chance completely. However, although Jimmy reported he absolutely hated the ground, he too jumped really well and was just unlucky to lose what looked like a guaranteed 2nd place after the last fence. A very pleasing debut over fences though none the less.

I've now told Belinda that we need to keep having babies as our next runner after Freddie was born in February 2008, Rodrigo Gonzales at Kempton, also won! On second thoughts I'd rather winners came more frequently than every 9 months!

Belinda and Harry are being kept in Cheltenham General until Friday so Harry can complete his course of antibiotics. Freddie and I manage to visit every day as do plenty of friends too. Zara Phillips lives locally in Cheltenham so is keeping her spirits up with regular visits. Belinda's godmother Anita is visiting from Chichester tomorrow which Belinda is very much looking forward to and Belinda tells me that Choc & Meally Thornton are in town before visiting hours and are going to try and talk their way in! Meally thinks that the nurses won't be able to turn down Choc on crutches! We'll see!

Back at home it is very exciting to see the winter horses coming back off their summer holidays. These include exciting names such as Benbane Head, Wolf Moon, Champion Court and Total Submission. It is great to see their heads looking out into the yard!

Today I run Deep Reflection at Worcester so can visit my new son on the way there. My parents are coming racing too and bringing big brother Freddie. Hopefully Deep Reflection will run well and keep the rolll going. He is top weight so Jimmy Derham claims a valuable 5lb off him.

Warren has been back riding out regularly and we are keeping our fingers crossed that he may be back race riding next week. Tom Siddall, who injured his back in a fall during the Grand National, was operated on earlier this week and is recouperating at home. We wish him, and obviously Choc too, a very speedy recovery.

We must thank Choc's 'superfan' Jane very much for the fabulous handmade cross stitch card she has sent us to celebrate Harry's birth. Also a massive thanks to you all for so many texts, cards and emails that you have sent us. They are much appreciated.

Sunday 18th July 2010

It’s a boy! Harry John Benjamin Keighley arrived at 3pm on Friday 16th July weighing a very respectable 8lbs 13oz. He gave us a bit of a fright as he was a bit shell shocked about the big wide world and decided to take a whole minute to start breathing properly and worried his tired parents a lot. He’d taken about 20 hours to get into the world so shouldn’t have been that surprised and his Mum & Dad were shattered!

Although he was transferred to the Special Care Unit, by this morning he was allowed to join his proud Mum in a lovely side room on the normal ward. They may keep Harry (and obviously that means Belinda too) in until Thursday or Friday because Harry has a bit of an infection but they are in the best place. We can’t wait for them to come home though.

Sue Bellamy has been an absolute star. Not only has she refrained from alcohol for the last few weeks in case we rang and said the baby was coming, she has, with the help of youngest son Archie, looked after Harry’s big brother Freddie brilliantly whilst I have been in hospital. Archie’s older brother Tom meanwhile has enjoyed a fantastic week of work experience at David Pipe’s yard. He was sad to miss out on Harry’s arrival but has learnt so much and had a fun week too. We hope he didn’t enjoy it too much though as we’d like him to come to us when he leaves school!

My parents are staying this week to help look after Freddie as typically his childminder, where he goes 3 days a week, is on holiday for 2 weeks! It will allow them to go into hospital and visit Harry and Belinda and mean I can go and see them when Freddie’s gone to bed as I’ll have live in babysitters!

As my Blog typist is in hospital I may not manage to update it as regularly as I’d like. Hopefully Belinda and Harry will be home very soon – I’ll let you know when they are. It may be before Friday if Harry continues to behave himself but we are not getting our hopes up unnecessarily.

Thanks for all your phone messages and texts. Emails will be back in action when Belinda’s back too so don’t be surprised if you haven’t had a reply!

Welcome to the world Harry!

Thursday 15th July 2010

One morning soon I hope to be reporting a new addition to Team Keighley .... but not today (so far)!

Two runners yesterday and Le Brocquy nearly put his best foot forward under a good ride from Jimmy Derham to finish 3rd at Uttoxeter and will surely get his head in front soon.

Pavanne ran at Worcester evening meeting. He has had lots of muscular and bone problems and, along with vet Jeremy Swan and physio Maggie Turner, we have allworked so hard to try and get him right as he is a lovely chap and is lucky to have such patient owners. Unfortunately it was soon evident that he was still feeling pain somewhere as he didn't jump with much fluency. Maybe he'll have a run on the flat to see if that suits him better otherwise we'll find him a lovely home out of racing. He's a nice horse to have around and it hopefully shouldn't be a problem to find him a home. Warren was acting Assistant Trainer at Worcester having gone there for physio!

Whilst farrier Phil Brush is sunning himself with Marie in Cuba we have a replacement farrier in the shape of Ryan Potter who has proved a bit of a hit with some of the girls here, especially as he has an irish accent! More importantly, he has done a great job of the horses feet too.

Poor Jason Maguire who rode Pavanne was later out of luck when he was unseated at the last fence and, although it looked a relatively 'easy' fall, he did look instantly in pain. We later found out he's broken his ankle and will be out for quite some time. We wish him a speedy recovery. Also on the sidelines is Tom Siddall who had an operation on his back yesterday in Oxford and we wish him a speedy return to the saddle too. We now hope Warren is back even quicker as all our replacement jockeys seem to be getting injured too!

Awful news locally yesterday that owner Raymond Mould's house was broken into and Charter Party's Cheltenham Gold Cup won whilst he was in training with David Nicholson in Condicote back in 1988, was stolen. We really hope they catch whoever is responsible and return it to Raymond.

Wednesday 14th July 2010

At the risk of sounding boring ... still no baby! We wake up every morning wondering if 'today's the day' and although not yet, the day is still young!

More rain this morning and, although not much, a little is better than nothing. Warren in again first lot and still feeling good. He rode Victor Daly who is feeling fresh and well. Jimmy Derham was also in first lot and rode new inmate Gentle John.

Two runners - Pavanne at Worcester where Nigel has kindly agreed to come back off holiday for the day to lead him up. Emily Churchley is driving the lorry there as Marie is still in Cuba and having a lovely time by the sounds of it, and I'm obviously needed at home just in case! Pavanne's in good form and we hope he runs well under Jason Maguire.

Jimmy Derham and Le Brocquy go to Uttoxeter where Geoff Slatter is driving and Danny is leading up. He too is in good form and a winner from either of them may well bring on the baby so fingers crossed!

Dave Cull, who is a regular helper at the yard and at the races, is tidying up our garden today - something I'm afraid I neglect as the yard takes priority and, Belinda's not in great shape to be doing any digging! Dave is becoming our jack of all trades and is a huge help.

Tuesday 13th July 2010

Apologies for doing the Blog late in the day today and making lots of you think Belinda is in labour - sadly not & she is continuing to box walk!

However there is good news in that it has rained all afternoon - much needed - and hopefully will continue all night with a bit of luck! Also, Warren was back in riding out two lots today and felt great. He worked Deep Reflection 1st lot and rode Le Brocquy second lot and hopefully continues to feel none the worse later today & tomorrow.

Others that worked included King Ozzy and Ponchatrain, both due to run shortly and in great form.

Two runners declared for tomorrow. Le Brocquy goes to Uttoxeter with Jimmy Derham in the saddle and Pavanne runs at Worcester under Jason Maguire.

Monday 12th July 2010

Still no baby news I'm afraid ... now a week overdue and Belinda's decided to note the baby down as a non-trier! She thinks it is waiting till we get busy with runners again later in the week.

The great news of today though is that Warren called in with good news of his scan results. They are happy for him to start riding out again tomorrow and to build back up to full race fitness which he hopes will be a couple of weeks as he has been doing so much swimming and walking during his convalesence.

Maggie Turner in this morning to check the horses that have come back in from their summer holidays and treat a few too.

Jimmy Derham was in for a couple of lots and schooled Pavanne first lot with Danny, fresh back from his holiday, on King Ozzy both up the hurdles on the grass. My new 'toy' is a watering system that I tow with my quad bike and I have spent the last week/10 days endlessly watering where the hurdles are. This has all paid off as there is no way you would be able to have schooled up the grass this morning if it wasn't for all the watering. Freddie has thoroughly enjoyed helping me too!

It is great to hear about the horses who have gone away for their holidays. After a nice break at home with owners Peter & Trish Andrews, De Forgotten Man and Busby Berkeley have been for a few weeks at a very interesting sounding yard near Bristol practising T Touch Tellington Jones which promotes physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. They will be coming back shortly and are both exciting prospects for the season. We also heard from the Odell's who have Ikorodu Road back with them and have started to do some dressage work with him.

Meanwhile, Belinda is searching for Paul the Octopus to ask him when this baby is going to make an appearance as he has apparently scored 10 out of 10 in predicting World Cup football scores!

Saturday 10th July 2010

The waiting continues and Belinda has walked up to the top of the gallops and back this morning to watch 1st lot and hopefully bring this baby on as a hot curry and endless fresh pineapple yesterday doesn't seem to have worked!

It is going to be a scorcher today but still cool enough for the horses to work first lot - Rach & King Ozzy with Magda on Ponchatrain then Miranda on Deep Reflection with Tom Bellamy on Pavanne. All went well. Those who weren't working went off on various hacks and enjoyed themselves.

I took Chocolat home to Sue Nock's yesterday so she can have a nice holiday and on Thursday a new inmate called Gentle John arrived who has settled in well and is a 'gentle giant' as he's quite big but everyone seems to have really taken to him.

Great to hear that Choc's operation seems to have gone well and, although in a lot of pain, he is back at home and will no doubt be very well looked after by his wife Meally.

I hope to be reporting news of a new addition tomorrow or Monday or is that just wishful thinking..?! With tomorrow being our 12th Wedding Anniversary, if it chose to appear tomorrow then we could share our 30th Wedding Anniversary with it's 18th Birthday if I've done my maths properly?!

Friday 9th July 2010

Still no baby news I'm afraid although we did think yesterday was 'the day' but baby decided to go back to sleep late evening so still nothing to report. Belinda's trying lots of old remedies including eating lots of fresh pineapple and has been told to go for lots of walks. She wasn't impressed when I told her she should join Warren for his daily walk as he walks for 7 or 8 miles! He called in to see us on his way back home late morning and is looking forward to getting his test results and to hopefully starting back riding soon.

Choc had his operation on his knee in Bristol yesterday and it apparently went really well and he hopes to be discharged today. Fingers crossed he heals far quicker than expected and is back in the saddle in no time at all.

No runners now possibly until the middle of next week so it would be rather convenient if the baby does make a speedy appearance!

Tom Bellamy was in riding out this morning as he didn't have to go into school today. His mum, Sue, has been on standby for a couple of weeks in case baby came early and we had to leave Freddie in the middle of the night. Obviously they are still 'on call' and Sue, Tom and younger brother Archie go to bed with their bags packed next to them every night waiting for the call. Freddie will be so excited if it does happen in the night and he wakes up to be greeted by Sue, Tom & Archie as he absolutely adores them.

Thursday 8th July 2010

Last night Chocolat ran well for a long way under Jason Maguire and absolutely jumped for fun. She just hit a flat spot turning for home before running on again. Jason thinks she jumps so well she ought to go chasing and she'll have a bit of a break before doing so.

We wish the other 'Choc' well today as Robert 'Choc' Thornton is undergoing an operation on the ligaments around his knee which were torn when he had a bad fall on Monday. Initial reports have advised that he may be looking at up to a year until the knee is as good as new again but, knowing jump jockeys and how tough Choc is, he'll be aiming to cut that time by a massive amount. We really enjoyed Choc's visits to our yard recently whilst deputising for our injured stable jockey Warren and we hope he is back very soon.

His wife Meally is having their first baby in December so one of the only positive ways of looking at his injury is that if he is still off in December then he will be able to spend far more time with her and their new addition than if he was riding at the busiest time of a jump jockey's year. Get well soon Choc.
No signs yet of our baby although Belinda has a feeling it may be today...?! If so it will share it's birthday with Owen Burrows, Assistant Trainer to Sir Michael Stoute and Belinda's oldest childhood friend. Happy Birthday Owen!

Wednesday 7th July 2010

Well no luck last night - no winners and no baby! Le Brocquy jumped well and cruised into the straight but faded to finish 4th. Maybe we'll hold onto him for even longer next time, he has so much ability and we remain determined to get the best out of him.

The Fox's Decree was trying 3 miles for the first time. Dicky Johnson had a lovely run up the inner but had so much daylight there he was always perhaps running a little too keenly and it didn't help him get the trip. We did get very excited at one point but it wasn't to be and he'll have a mini break now as he's been on the go a long time and will run again mid to late August. He always tries and is so genuine and will surely win before the end of the summer.

A late night for Steffi who led both horses up and as she got home after midnight she wasn't back on the yard til after 9am this morning to hopefully help her re-charge the batteries a little. She's back off to Worcester again tonight with Geoff Slatter who has been a star driving the lorry again but with it being far nearer they won't be as late.

Chocolat is tonight's runner and Steffi has done a lot of hard work on her taking her off on her own often to keep her head right. She's the outsider of the field in the paper but I hope she'll run a big race. I'm on standby again in case the shy baby decides to make an appearance so will be watching from home. I do miss going racing but need to be at home just in case and am so grateful for my understanding owners.

Friends of ours Donna and Robert Embeary had a baby boy early this morning called 'Oliver' and we wish them all the best. Belinda sent her a text saying 'hope to join you later'! Wishful thinking maybe?! Donna was due the day before Belinda so maybe it is our turn tonight - come on Chocolat, it's down to you to bring it on tonight!

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