Big Day Preparation.

Oliver was over at the Hollingbourne hill gallop this morning riding Parisian Star, his mount next Saturday at Lingfield in the special stable lads charity race.  His parents had come down to watch as had a few of the Saturday breakfast regulars.  Everyone was pleased with how it went and they are all looking forward with anticipation to the big day.

Hope For The Future.

Good Bond gave the impression that he could have an exciting future when he gained third place in a Lingfield maiden today.  There were only five runners in the 6 furlong race on the turf and two were well fancied to finish clear of the rest.  Good Bond was the outsider of the five.  Under Robert Tart he was keen early on and travelled close up to the leading pair.  Robert encouraged him to keep going, when the two fancied runners pulled away in the final furlong, without being over-hard on him.  He responded to the urgings and pleasingly held onto third place despite the challenges coming from behind. That was only Good Bond's second run and hopefully he will keep on improving.

Good Bond before the race, with Mia making guest lead up appearance. Trying for "Best Turned Out?"

Good Bond comes into the 3rd place spot.

A Couple Of Memorable Days

There was more chance and reason to celebrate this week.  On Thursday Dick shared a champagne breakfast with the staff, as he knew he would be unable to attend the usual Saturday one.

Dick celebrates with the staff.

Karen and Kingscombe came 2nd in the ROR class at the South Of England show on Friday.  They are looking forward to competing at Aintree in August.

Karen on Kingscombe at the South Of England Show.

The usual Saturday crowd also shared Dick's success with some champagne that he kindly left for them.

Saturday owners celebrate and watch a replay.

The now traditional celebration cake in owner's colours.

Well Deserved Victory.

Kayflin earned a well deserved second career win in the extended 2 and a half mile conditional jockeys handicap hurdle at Fontwell this evening.  Ridden by Jack Sherwood she started towards the rear of the closely grouped 6 runner field as they set off at a slow pace.  The pace was increased down the far side on the second circuit and Jack moved her up into second place before deciding to lead round the bottom bend.  He continued to keep her ahead on the final circuit, and a blunder three out failed to slow her momentum so that by the last flight they only had the attentions of the favourite to deal with.  Kayflin drifted across the line of the challenger and held on to cross the line half a length ahead.  However the interference caught the eyes of the stewards and they held an enquiry.  They justly found that the places should remain unaltered giving Kayflin the reward for her consistent efforts this year.

Kayflin on her way to victory.